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Vivek

Vivek Lala  |323 Answers  |Ask -

Tax, MF Expert - Answered on Sep 23, 2023

Vivek Lala has been working as a tax planner since 2018. His expertise lies in making personalised tax budgets and tax forecasts for individuals. As a tax advisor, he takes pride in simplifying tax complications for his clients using simple, easy-to-understand language.
Lala cleared his chartered accountancy exam in 2018 and completed his articleship with Chaturvedi and Shah. ... more
S Question by S on Jun 25, 2023Hindi
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I have invested in the following funds and require your advice on holding or Switching ----1) SBI Focused Equity fund Regular growth - 645 units @ Rs.227 purchased on 4th aug 2022,----2) SBI Blue Chip Fund Regular Growth - 822 units @ Rs.60.84 purchased on 4.8.22, ----3) SBI Multicap Fund Regular Plan Growth - 34953 units @ Rs.10.59 on 4.8.22,----4) HDFC Tax Saver Direct Plan Growth Option - One time Investment of Rs.40000/-on 9.3.20,----5) HDFC Developed World Indexes FundOf Fund - One time investment of RS.50000/- ON 21.10.21, ----6)HDFC Equity Savings Fund Direct Plan Growth--One time investment of Rs.70000/- on 21.10.21,----7) HDFC Nifty Next50Index Fund direct growth - One time investment of Rs.50000/- on 3.11.21

Ans: Hello, the selection of funds should have a goal attached to it. This investment style seems to be cluttered and not very definitive in terms of the goals it has. Do speak to an advisor / distributor in person for the same.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jun 15, 2023

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Sir i have investment in SBI Blue chip fund, SBI Large & Midcap fund and Invesco Infrastructure fund can i continue or switch Suggest any best Equity fund in Mutual fund for 2 yrs time..
Ans: SBI Blue chip fund invests in large-cap (top 100 companies) stocks and it is known for investing in well-established companies with stable growth potential. The performance of the fund is at par and the fundamentals of the fund are also good. Consider continuing with the fund

SBI Large & Midcap fund invests in both large-cap and mid-cap stocks. Mid-cap stocks generally have higher growth potential but may also be subject to increased volatility. If you have a higher risk tolerance and believe in the growth prospects of mid-cap companies, you might consider continuing with this investment. However, please be aware that mid-cap funds can be more volatile than large-cap funds.

Invesco Infrastructure fund works on a specific theme which focuses on investing in infrastructure-related companies and it is suitable for investors with a higher risk appetite and a long-term investment horizon. If you have a high-risk tolerance and a positive outlook on the infrastructure sector, you may consider continuing with this investment.

Coming to your query regarding an equity-oriented fund for two year time horizon. We do not recommend to investment in pure equity funds if your investment horizon is of less than 3 years. As the equity markets are volatile, every fund requires at least a 3 years’ horizon to stabilize in the portfolio. However, if you still wish to invest you can go for a hybrid fund or index fund.

Disclaimer:
• I have just no idea about your age, future financial goals, your risk profile, other investments and whether you would have the nerves to not get unduly perturbed if stock markets go temporarily down.
• Hence, please note that I am answering your question in absolute isolation to other parameters which should definitely be considered when answering a question of this type.
• I recommend you to also consult a good financial advisor who would look at your complete profile in totality before you act on this advice given by me.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

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Sir good morning. I am 27 years old. I have been investing Rs 10000/- each in SBI Mid cap fund, Small cap Fund and Rs 10000 in ABSL Flexi cap fund and Rs 5000/- in HDFC Midcap funds. I may please be guided whether to continue or to switch to other funds. Thank you sir.
Ans: At 27, you're making proactive investment decisions, which is commendable. Let's review your current investment strategy and explore potential adjustments:

Assessing Your Current Portfolio
SBI Mid Cap Fund and Small Cap Fund: Mid-cap and small-cap funds offer growth potential but come with higher volatility. Consider your risk tolerance and investment horizon when evaluating these funds.

ABSL Flexi Cap Fund: Flexi-cap funds provide flexibility to invest across market capitalizations based on market conditions. They offer diversification and potential for growth.

HDFC Midcap Fund: Similar to SBI Mid Cap and Small Cap funds, HDFC Midcap Fund focuses on mid-cap stocks. Assess whether the overlap in mid-cap exposure across funds aligns with your diversification goals.

Considerations for Continuation or Switch
Performance: Evaluate the performance of your current funds relative to their benchmarks and peers. Consistent underperformance may warrant a review.

Fund Manager Track Record: Assess the track record and expertise of the fund managers managing your investments. Consistency in performance and adherence to investment objectives are key considerations.

Fund Objectives and Strategy: Ensure that the investment objectives and strategies of your funds align with your financial goals and risk profile.

Potential Actions
Review Fund Performance: Conduct a detailed analysis of the performance of each fund in your portfolio over different time periods.

Consult with a Financial Advisor: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to review your investment strategy and explore alternative fund options based on your goals and risk tolerance.

Consider Diversification: Evaluate the need for diversification across asset classes and investment styles to mitigate risk and enhance long-term returns.

Conclusion
While your current investment strategy demonstrates a focus on growth-oriented funds, it's essential to periodically review your portfolio and make adjustments as needed. Assess the performance, objectives, and risk profile of your funds, and consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized guidance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

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Good morning sir. I am investing in SBI midcap, small cap and health care opportunities fund at the rate of Rs 10000 per month respectively and Rs 5000/- each in ICICI equity funds. Kindly suggest whether to contiue or to switch to other
Ans: It's great to see your proactive approach towards investing. Let's assess your current mutual fund investments and explore whether any adjustments are needed.

Reviewing Current Investments
Diversification Strategy
Your investment strategy reflects a diversified approach by investing in midcap, small cap, healthcare, and equity funds.

Performance Analysis
Evaluate the performance of your current funds against relevant benchmarks to gauge their effectiveness in meeting your financial goals.

Considerations for Continuation or Switching
Fund Performance
Assess the historical performance of each fund to determine if they consistently outperform their benchmarks.

Risk Appetite
Consider your risk tolerance and ensure your investment choices align with your risk appetite and financial goals.

Potential Action Steps
Consultation with a Certified Financial Planner
Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to review your investment portfolio comprehensively and ensure it aligns with your financial objectives.

Periodic Portfolio Review
Regularly review your investment portfolio to stay informed about market trends and make necessary adjustments based on changing economic conditions.

Final Recommendation
Stay Informed
Stay updated on market developments and seek professional advice when considering changes to your investment strategy.

By regularly reviewing your mutual fund portfolio and consulting with a Certified Financial Planner, you can make informed decisions to optimize your investments and work towards your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 02, 2025

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I have been investing 3k each into the following funds "Tata Dividend Yield Fund Direct Plan - Growth (1 year),Tata Equity P/E Fund Direct Plan - Growth(4.5 years),Axis NIFTY Next 50 Index Fund Direct Growth(1 year),Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Direct Growth(3 years),Mirae Asset Midcap Fund - Direct Plan(3 years),Nippon India Small Cap Fund(1 year). Should I continue with all these funds or do I need to switch any of these funds? If I need to switch, which funds needs to be switched and what will be your suggested funds to invest in for long term?
Ans: Your existing investments show a good diversification strategy. They span equity, mid-cap, small-cap, and thematic funds.

Let us assess these funds to identify gaps, overlaps, or potential for improvement.

Strengths of Your Portfolio
1. Diversification Across Market Segments

Investments include mid-cap, small-cap, and equity-diversified funds.
This reduces risk and ensures participation in broader market growth.
2. Focus on Emerging Opportunities

Investments in thematic funds add potential for long-term growth.
These align well with higher growth expectations over time.
3. Consistent Investment Approach

Regular SIPs promote disciplined investing.
This is crucial for building wealth over time.
Key Concerns Identified
1. High Overlap Between Funds

Multiple funds in similar categories lead to redundant investments.
This might dilute returns due to overlapping holdings.
2. Index Fund in the Portfolio

Index funds lack flexibility in volatile markets.
Actively managed funds can generate higher alpha through fund manager expertise.
3. Limited Exposure to Defensive Strategies

A defensive allocation like balanced or hybrid funds could enhance stability.
This is important to balance high-growth segments.
4. Uneven Time Frames Across Investments

Some funds have been held for shorter durations.
This may not allow the compounding benefits to materialise.
Recommendations for Portfolio Restructuring
1. Retain Well-Performing Funds

Funds with consistent performance should be continued.
Retain funds offering strong growth potential aligned with your goals.
2. Replace Redundant or Subpar Funds

Switch funds with overlapping objectives to avoid redundancy.
Consider diversified equity and mid-cap funds with proven performance records.
3. Exit Index Fund

Redeem your investment in the index fund.
Invest in actively managed funds for better long-term returns.
4. Add Hybrid or Balanced Funds

Introduce balanced advantage funds to stabilise your portfolio.
These funds provide a mix of equity growth and debt stability.
5. Focus on Regular Fund Investments Through CFP

Shift from direct funds to regular funds with CFP-guided investments.
This ensures expert monitoring and tailored portfolio adjustments.
Suggested Strategies for Long-Term Investments
1. Long-Term Wealth Creation Through Equity

Equity-oriented funds are ideal for higher returns over 7+ years.
Prioritise funds with a mix of large-cap and multi-cap exposure.
2. Stability Through Debt Allocation

Include debt-oriented funds for consistent returns in volatile times.
Aim for stability in case of market downturns.
3. Tactical Allocation for Emerging Opportunities

Allocate a smaller percentage to thematic or sectoral funds.
Limit exposure to manage risks effectively.
4. Periodic Portfolio Review

Assess your portfolio every 6 months to a year.
Adjust allocations based on market trends and fund performance.
Tax Considerations for Your Investments
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh on equity funds attracts 12.5% tax.
STCG is taxed at 20% for equity funds.
Tax-efficient planning ensures optimal returns from your investments.
Final Insights
Your portfolio is well-diversified but can be optimised for efficiency. Reducing redundancies, exiting index funds, and introducing hybrid strategies will add value. Work with a Certified Financial Planner for customised guidance and portfolio monitoring.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1840 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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