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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
PRAVIN Question by PRAVIN on Nov 23, 2023Hindi
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Dear sir I have invested many mutual funds in equity oriented in begining period. I have not consantration on which in growth option and which is dividend payout or reinvest option. So many mutual fund schemes is dividend reinvestment option and now last three years dividend income is taxable in the hand of me which is taxable income @ 30% and education cess% on tax amount . Now Please guide to me can I have change the dividend reinvested plans to growth option for the taxation purpose . Thanks & regards Pravin B Khatavkar

Ans: Dear Pravin B Khatavkar,

It's commendable that you've taken the initiative to reevaluate your mutual fund investments, especially concerning their taxation implications. Let's delve into your situation and explore the best course of action.

Assessing Your Current Scenario

Your decision to invest in equity-oriented mutual funds reflects a sound long-term investment strategy. However, the choice between growth and dividend reinvestment options holds significant implications, particularly in terms of taxation. Dividend reinvestment may seem convenient, but it can inadvertently increase your tax burden, as you've experienced.

Understanding Tax Implications

The dividends reinvested are considered as income and taxed accordingly, which can be a burden, especially if you're in the higher tax bracket. At 30% tax plus cess, the tax liability can significantly impact your overall returns. This scenario underscores the importance of revisiting your investment choices to optimize tax efficiency.

Exploring the Transition to Growth Option

Transitioning from dividend reinvestment to the growth option can be a prudent move from a taxation perspective. In the growth option, dividends are not distributed but instead reinvested in the fund, leading to capital appreciation. This approach can potentially reduce your tax liability, as you're not immediately taxed on the reinvested dividends.

Considering the Long-Term Benefits

Switching to the growth option aligns with your long-term investment objectives by optimizing tax efficiency and enhancing overall returns. By allowing your investments to grow without the immediate tax implications of dividends, you can potentially compound your wealth more effectively over time.

Navigating the Transition Process

Transitioning from dividend reinvestment to the growth option is relatively straightforward. You can typically request this change directly through your mutual fund distributor or online portal. However, it's essential to consider any exit loads or tax implications associated with the switch, ensuring that the transition is cost-effective.

Seeking Professional Guidance

While the decision to transition to the growth option appears beneficial, it's crucial to consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to assess your specific circumstances comprehensively. A CFP can provide personalized guidance tailored to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and tax situation, ensuring that your investment strategy remains aligned with your objectives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, transitioning from dividend reinvestment to the growth option can potentially optimize tax efficiency and enhance long-term returns. However, it's essential to seek professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner to navigate this transition effectively. By aligning your investment strategy with your financial goals, you can strive for greater financial security and peace of mind.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 12, 2024Hindi
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i have retired from my business. i am holding 20 lakhs in mutual fund growth option. should i convert it into dividend option for extra income
Ans: Assessing Your Current Situation
You have retired from your business.

You hold Rs 20 lakhs in mutual funds in the growth option.

You are considering converting to the dividend option for extra income.

Understanding Growth vs. Dividend Options
Growth Option:

In the growth option, your investments grow over time.

Returns are reinvested, leading to potential capital appreciation.

Dividend Option:

The dividend option provides regular income through dividends.

Dividends are paid from the profits of the mutual fund.

Evaluating the Dividend Option
Regular Income:

The dividend option provides periodic income, which can be useful.

This income can supplement your retirement funds.

Tax Implications:

Dividends are taxed in the hands of the investor.

This can reduce the overall returns compared to the growth option.

Market Dependency:

Dividends are not guaranteed and depend on the fund's performance.

In a downturn, dividends may be lower or not paid at all.

Alternative Strategies for Income
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP):

An SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly.

You can choose the amount and frequency of withdrawals.

This provides a predictable income stream without changing the investment option.

Balanced Funds:

Consider investing in balanced funds, which provide both growth and income.

These funds invest in a mix of equity and debt instruments.

Debt Funds:

Debt funds offer lower risk and regular income.

They are suitable for conservative investors seeking steady returns.

Benefits of Regular Funds Through a Certified Financial Planner
Professional Guidance:

A CFP can help tailor your investment strategy to your retirement needs.

They can provide advice on the best funds for your risk profile and income needs.

Periodic Reviews:

Regular reviews ensure your investments remain aligned with your goals.

Adjustments can be made based on changes in the market or your personal situation.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Professional Advice:

Direct funds do not come with professional guidance.

This can be a drawback if you are not well-versed in investment strategies.

Higher Risk of Mismanagement:

Without expert advice, there is a higher risk of making poor investment choices.
Time-Consuming:

Managing direct funds requires more time and effort.

This can be challenging, especially in retirement.

Final Insights
Consider your need for regular income carefully.

Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of the dividend option.

Explore alternative strategies like SWP or balanced funds.

Consult with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 03, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello sir. Currently I am 35 years old. I have just started investing in mutual funds. (a) parag parekh flexi cap - 7500/- per month (B) tata small cap fund -2500/- per month (C) mirae asset ELLS tax saver -5000/- (D) pGIM india mid cap opp. Fund -5000/- (E) quant infrastructure fund-3500/- (F) quant small cap fund -4000/- (G) qyant active fund -3500/- (H) quant absolute fund-5000/- Total i am investing 36000/- per month. I want to get 2 crore till 2035. Additionally i want to invest 1 lakh per annum So my questions is AREA THESE MUTUAL FUNDS ARE OK or I should change any fund. And where should I invest this additional 1 lkh rupee per annum
Ans: You have taken a solid step by investing in mutual funds. Let’s assess your portfolio for alignment with your Rs. 2 crore goal by 2035.

Analysing Fund Selection
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund
A flexi cap fund is suitable for long-term growth.

It provides exposure to multiple market segments and geographies.

Tata Small Cap Fund
Small-cap funds can deliver high returns but carry high risk.

Keep exposure limited to control portfolio volatility.

Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund
ELSS funds are excellent for tax-saving under Section 80C.

They also provide equity exposure with a lock-in period of 3 years.

PGIM India Midcap Opportunities Fund
Mid-cap funds balance growth potential and risk.

It fits well for wealth creation over 10+ years.

Quant Infrastructure Fund
Sectoral funds like infrastructure are highly volatile.

Limit their allocation to avoid concentrated risk.

Quant Small Cap Fund
Small-cap funds should be balanced with large-cap or flexi-cap funds.

Diversify further to mitigate risks.

Quant Active Fund
This multi-cap fund offers flexibility in stock allocation.

It can complement other diversified funds in your portfolio.

Quant Absolute Fund
Balanced funds can provide stability to a portfolio.

Use these for moderate growth with reduced risk.

Portfolio Observations
Strengths
Good mix of diversified equity funds and mid-cap options.

Includes ELSS for tax savings.

Concerns
High allocation to small-cap and sectoral funds increases portfolio risk.

Quant funds dominate, reducing diversification across fund houses.

Suggested Portfolio Adjustments
Reduce Small-Cap Exposure
Retain one small-cap fund, preferably Tata Small Cap.

Exit the Quant Small Cap Fund to reduce concentrated risk.

Diversify Fund Houses
Choose funds from varied AMCs for better risk distribution.

Avoid over-reliance on a single fund house like Quant.

Add Large-Cap Focus
Include a large-cap or large and mid-cap fund for stability.

These funds are essential for balancing risk.

Utilising the Additional Rs. 1 Lakh Annually
Lump Sum in Mutual Funds
Invest the amount in existing equity funds systematically.

Distribute it across balanced and large-cap funds.

Consider Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds offer equity growth with debt stability.

Allocate Rs. 50,000 annually to a good hybrid fund.

Emergency Fund
Build an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses.

Use liquid funds or fixed deposits for this purpose.

Health Insurance Top-Up
Increase health insurance coverage if necessary.

Ensure sufficient coverage for medical emergencies.

Tracking and Adjusting Your Investments
Annual Portfolio Review
Monitor fund performance regularly.

Exit consistently underperforming funds to optimise returns.

Rebalancing
Adjust your equity and debt exposure annually.

Maintain the desired asset allocation for your goals.

Tax Implications and Planning
ELSS Tax Benefits
Continue with ELSS investments for Section 80C deductions.

Redeem matured ELSS funds and reinvest to extend benefits.

Long-Term and Short-Term Capital Gains
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%. Plan withdrawals wisely to minimise taxes.

Estimating Rs. 2 Crore Corpus by 2035
Your Rs. 36,000 SIP is a significant step toward this goal.

Stay disciplined with investments to capitalise on compounding.

Use the additional Rs. 1 lakh annually to accelerate corpus growth.

Final Insights
Your portfolio needs minor adjustments for better risk management. Focus on diversification, balancing equity and debt, and tracking performance. Stay consistent with your SIPs, and your Rs. 2 crore target by 2035 is achievable.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |417 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 24, 2025

Money
I am 31 now in MNC. In early days, I have invested in hdfc balance advantage fund dividend option to get passive and additional income. Now employed in MNC getting a decent salary now the dividend not required forme even as passive income, also giving tax burden, moreover the HDFC BAF dividend fund has grown well apart from giving dividend my purchase nav was ₹.24 now it ₹.45. Please guide me should I switch to one withdrawal or by STP where both involves tax burden or in batches to match every year. 1, if withdraw one lot LTCG but save dividend taxing 2. If STP no or minimum tax on LTCG but dividend is tax pressure 3.if withdraw in batch both LTCG and dividend 4. If I do nothing and to allow it grow in dividend though I set dividend transfer to growth fund this dividend gives tax pressure. I don't require this dividend or accumulated funds in Dividend option any more say for next 25 years Can you please Guide me and throw light to ease the situation
Ans: Hi Mani,

Unfortunately there isn't any direct option to switch from Dividend option to growth or any other option.
You can withdraw the amount in batches so that the maximum gain in one financial year does not cross Rs. 1.25 lakhs as 1.25 lakhs LTCG is tax exempt. So if you withdraw gains worth 1.25 lakhs, you will incur the dividend tax on the remaining amount till next FY.
This is the best option for you to exercise.
You can share your net salary details and total invested amount in this MF along with current value for me to guide you better.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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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