Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 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
Kotte Question by Kotte on Apr 30, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

I invested in mf sip of sbi contra fund Reg G,Quant small cap fund Reg G, Sbi small cap fund Dir G, And also lumpsum of ?5000 in Parag parikh flexi cap fund Dir G, Nippon India nifty small cap 250 index fund Dir G, Sbi nifty small cap 250 index fund Dir G. Kindly advice is it required any reallocation required,if yes suggest pl.

Ans: It's excellent that you're investing in mutual funds through SIPs and lump-sum investments, which can help you build wealth over the long term. Let's assess your current portfolio and see if any reallocation is needed.

Your portfolio consists of a mix of actively managed funds and index funds, covering different market segments like contra, small-cap, and flexi-cap. This diversification is good, but it's essential to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Firstly, let's evaluate your actively managed funds. SBI Contra Fund, Quantum Small Cap Fund, and SBI Small Cap Fund are actively managed funds with varying investment strategies. It's crucial to monitor their performance and ensure they continue to meet your expectations. If any of these funds consistently underperform or deviate from their investment mandate, you may consider reallocating your investments to better-performing alternatives within the same category.

Regarding your lump-sum investments, Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund is known for its diversified approach across market caps and sectors, providing flexibility and potential for growth. However, it's essential to review its performance periodically to ensure it continues to deliver results.

Nippon India Nifty Small Cap 250 Index Fund and SBI Nifty Small Cap 250 Index Fund are passive funds tracking the Nifty Small Cap 250 Index. While index funds offer low-cost exposure to specific market segments, they may not outperform actively managed funds consistently. However, they provide diversification and can be a valuable component of a well-rounded portfolio.

There are some advantages to consider direct funds, and the cost savings can be significant in the long run. However, there are some potential benefits to using a regular MFD:
Advantages of Investing Through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD):
• Personalized Advice: MFDs can be helpful for beginners or those who lack investment knowledge. They can assess your risk tolerance, financial goals, and investment horizon to recommend suitable mutual funds. This personalized guidance can be valuable, especially if you're new to investing.
• Convenience: MFDs handle all the paperwork and transactions on your behalf, saving you time and effort. They can help with account setup, SIP registrations, and managing your portfolio across different funds.
• Investor Support: MFDs can be a point of contact for any questions or concerns you may have about your investments. They can provide ongoing support and guidance throughout your investment journey.

Consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon when evaluating the need for reallocation. If any fund significantly underperforms or if your financial circumstances change, you may need to rebalance your portfolio accordingly.

It's advisable to consult with a Certified Financial Planner who can provide personalized advice based on your specific financial situation and goals.

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Omkeshwar

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on Sep 14, 2020

Money
I have invested in the below funds via SIP. Need guidance if I can continue or should I switch LumpsumSBI Magnum Global Fund (D)HDFC Midcap Opportunities - Regular plan (G)SBI Gold fund - Regular planSBI Focussed Equity Fund - Regular plan (G)Franklin India Equity Fund (G)SIPICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund (G)HDFC Capital Builder Value fund - Regular plan (G)Principal Multi cap Growth fund - Regular planHDFC Capital Builder value fund (G)HDFC Midcap opportunities - Regular plan (G)SBI Magnum Gilt Fund regular growthL&T Midcap fund cumulativeICICI Prudential Regular Savings fund (G)MIRAE Asset Emerging Blue chip fund – Regular plan (G)Axis Bluechip Fund – Regular plan (G)
Ans:
Name of the Fund Category Recommendations
Sivakumar    
SBI Magnum Global Fund (D) Equity - Thematic Fund - MNC  Continue
HDFC Midcap Opportunities - Regular plan (G) Equity - Mid Cap Fund Continue
SBI Gold fund - Regular plan FoFs (Domestic / Overseas ) - Gold Continue
SBI Focussed Equity Fund - Regular plan (G) Equity - Focused Fund Continue
Franklin India Equity Fund (G) Equity - Multi Cap Fund SmartSwitch to UTI Equity Fund - Growth
ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund (G) Equity - Large Cap Fund  SmartSwitch to Axis Bluechip fund -Growth
HDFC Capital Builder Value fund - Regular plan (G) Equity - Value Fund  SmartSwitch to UTI Value Fund
Principal Multi cap Growth fund - Regular plan Equity - Multi Cap Fund  SmartSwitch to UTI Equity Fund - Growth
HDFC Capital Builder value fund (G) Equity - Value Fund  SmartSwitch to UTI Value Fund
HDFC Midcap opportunities - Regular plan (G) Equity - Mid Cap Fund Continue
SBI Magnum Gilt Fund regular growth Debt - Gilt Fund Continue
L&T Midcap fund cumulative Equity - Mid Cap Fund SmartSwitch to DSP Mid Cap
ICICI Prudential Regular Savings fund (G) Hybrid - Conservative Hybrid Fund Continue
MIRAE Asset Emerging Blue chip fund – Regular plan (G) Equity - Large & Mid Cap Fund Continue
Axis Bluechip Fund – Regular plan (G) Equity - Large Cap Fund Continue

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 04, 2024

Listen
Money
I am investing through SIP in the following 1. Hdfc small cap - 8000 2. Icici nifty next fifty - 3000 3. Mirae Asset large cap - 4000 4. Hsbc midcap - 6000 5. Sbi flexi cap- 4000 and planning to add on one more sip in Motilal Oswal S&P 500 index, in which already lumpsum investment has been made. And for the last three years investing lumpsum in Axis long term equity for tax saving, shall I continue with all these funds or need to make any changes.
Ans: Considering your current investment portfolio, it appears to be diversified across various market segments, which is generally a good strategy for spreading risk. Adding a SIP in Motilal Oswal S&P 500 Index fund can provide exposure to international equities and further diversify your holdings.

It's important to periodically review the performance of your existing funds and assess whether they are meeting your investment objectives. If any funds consistently underperform or no longer align with your goals, you may consider replacing them with better alternatives.

Since you're already investing in Axis Long Term Equity for tax-saving purposes, evaluate its performance compared to other tax-saving options available. Ensure it continues to meet your requirements and offers competitive returns.

Regularly reassess your risk tolerance and investment horizon to ensure they match your chosen investment strategy. If your financial goals or risk profile change over time, adjust your investments accordingly.

Seeking advice from a certified financial planner or investment advisor can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your specific circumstances and goals. They can help review your portfolio comprehensively and make appropriate adjustments as needed.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 12, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, I am Sumit. I have been investing in MF since 2018 via regular SIP and lumpsum amounts as per the availability of funds. At present I am having following SIP in my account (1) DSP Flexicap Fund (Rs. 15000), (2) ICICI Prud Banking and Financial (Rs. 10000), (3) Kotak Emerging Equity Fund (Rs 15000), (4) Nippon Small Cap Fund (Rs 5000), (5) Kotak Focused Equity Fund (Rs 10000) and Also following in my mother's name (a) Axis MidcapFund (Rs 5000), (b) DSP Flexicap Fund (Rs 5000) Till May 2023 the SIP was of Rs 40000 which I have increased to 55000 from my account. I have invested around Rs 53 lakh till Dec 2023 and its value as per the present market rate is Rs 81 Lakh. Are these Funds / SIPs properly spread out ? I intend to create 2 Cr by June 2025. Please advise on existing funds or changes to be done. Thank you.
Ans: It's great to see your disciplined approach to investing in mutual funds. Your portfolio appears to be diversified across different categories, which is a good practice for managing risk. However, here are a few considerations and suggestions:

Diversification: Your portfolio seems heavily focused on equity funds, especially mid-cap and small-cap funds. While these funds can offer higher growth potential, they also come with higher risk. Consider diversifying into other categories like large-cap or flexi-cap funds to spread out risk.

Performance Review: Evaluate the performance of each fund in your portfolio relative to its benchmark index and peers. If any fund consistently underperforms or does not align with your investment objectives, consider replacing it with a better-performing alternative.

Risk Assessment: Given your goal of achieving Rs 2 Crore by June 2025, assess whether your current asset allocation aligns with your risk tolerance and investment horizon. Adjust your portfolio composition accordingly to balance risk and return potential.

Continued Monitoring: Keep a close watch on market developments, economic indicators, and fund performance. Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and make adjustments as necessary.

Consultation: Consider consulting with a financial advisor who can provide personalized guidance based on your financial situation, goals, and risk profile. They can help you optimize your portfolio and make informed investment decisions.

Remember that achieving your financial goals requires patience, discipline, and periodic review of your investment strategy. By staying informed and making prudent investment decisions, you can work towards building wealth and achieving your objectives.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 17, 2025
Money
I have 2 App loans 36000 and 140000 + 2 credit card outstanding 95000 and 187000 (Both principal amount). I have bounced my all 4 EMI's since last 3 months due to job loss and my salary is peanuts. How can I survive with house chorus and paying EMI's. Please help
Ans: It is painful and stressful. But please know this — you are not alone, and you can come out of this. Let’s take this step-by-step.

You are facing:

2 App loans: Rs. 36,000 + Rs. 1,40,000

2 Credit card dues: Rs. 95,000 + Rs. 1,87,000

3 months EMIs already bounced

Low or no income due to job loss

Home responsibilities ongoing

This is serious, but manageable with the right action.

First, Understand What Will Not Work
Please avoid:

Taking new loans to pay old loans

Using other credit cards to pay EMIs

Borrowing from illegal or unknown lenders

Ignoring lenders and collection calls

Hoping the problem will disappear on its own

These will make your problem worse.

Step 1: Protect Yourself from Legal Pressure
You have already defaulted. That may lead to:

Legal notices from credit card companies

Harassment from collection agents

Credit score falling below 600

So you need to act fast.

Call each of the lenders yourself. Do not wait for them to call you.

Tell them honestly:

You lost your job

You are facing cash crisis

You want to settle and not escape

Ask for temporary EMI pause (moratorium) or restructuring

Lenders prefer talking to honest borrowers.

You may get:

Waiver of late fees

Reduction in interest

EMI holiday for few months

Option to convert dues into longer EMIs

Write an email also to them. Keep written proof.

This shows you are serious.

Step 2: Focus on Survival, Not Full Repayment Now
You must survive this phase first. Do only the must-do expenses:

Food and kitchen

Electricity and gas

Child or parents’ basic needs

Rent or basic housing

Cut all others:

OTT, Swiggy, Zomato, shopping

Eating out, subscriptions

Cab rides, mobile upgrades

Any premium items

Every saved rupee will count now.

Make a list of all expenses, and cut it to bare minimum.

Your mental peace comes before EMI.

Step 3: List Your Dues in Priority Order
Here is a breakdown:

App Loan 1 – Rs. 36,000

App Loan 2 – Rs. 1,40,000

Credit Card 1 – Rs. 95,000

Credit Card 2 – Rs. 1,87,000

App loans and credit cards have very high interest. Usually 24–40% per year.

But credit cards will affect your CIBIL score more if unpaid.

So give this order of priority:

Try to settle credit card 1 (Rs. 95,000) first

Then negotiate with credit card 2 (Rs. 1.87L)

After that, settle App Loan 1

Then App Loan 2

Why this order?

Credit card interest is high

Card dues snowball fast

App loans may negotiate faster than banks

Step 4: Ask for One-Time Settlement (OTS)
Once you show that you have zero income, some banks may agree to:

Close your loan at reduced principal

Stop interest from increasing further

Give you 3–6 months to pay off in parts

Ask for a written One-Time Settlement (OTS) letter.

Do not pay without it.

Once you settle, your CIBIL score will take time to recover. But that’s okay. Life first. Score later.

Step 5: Find Any Cash You Can
Please think deeply about the following:

Can you sell a scooter, old phone, gadgets?

Can any relative or friend help temporarily?

Do you have gold you can pledge (not sell)?

Any unused subscriptions or refund available?

Can you do part-time work for Rs. 300–500/day?

Every Rs. 500 helps your mental health now.

Avoid taking loans again. Instead, look for non-loan help.

Step 6: Get a Job, Any Job for Now
Even if it is not in your field, take any income work:

Delivery partner

Data entry

Freelance teaching

Typing work

Shop help

Online task jobs

Voice process

Focus is not on salary. Focus is to:

Keep cash flow coming

Feel responsible again

Stop going deeper into debt

Update resume. Ask friends. Join job groups. Apply daily.

Even Rs. 15,000/month will bring confidence.

You are not alone. Many professionals have started over.

Step 7: Emotionally Stay Strong
You may feel:

Guilt

Shame

Panic

Anger

Frustration

It is normal.

Please:

Talk to family or trusted friend

Keep one hour daily for walks, exercise or prayer

Sleep properly

Eat simple food, but on time

Avoid alcohol or substance use

This phase will pass.

Stay focused.

Final Insights
You are not a failure. This is a temporary financial emergency.

With calm steps, you can rebuild. Slowly, but surely.

Do this immediately:

Contact all lenders and ask for restructuring

Stop all luxury or non-essential expenses

Prioritise credit cards

Consider OTS if needed

Start small income work

Protect your mental strength

Once your income starts again:

Restart savings, even small

Use Certified Financial Planner later to rebuild

Learn how to stay debt-free in future

Take one step at a time.

You will come out stronger.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x