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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 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
jatin Question by jatin on Apr 22, 2024Hindi
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Hi mam, I have invested in sips from last 5 years but I invested through a brooker and he invested and managed my portfolio in regular mutula funds. I have invested like 8 lakhs and got a market values of like 14 lakhs on that investment, but now I want to convert my regular funds into direct funds. I am confused if i should do that or not. As i have got good returns due to covid 19 dip and ukraine war.

Ans: It's great to hear that your investments have performed well over the past five years, especially during turbulent times like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine war. Converting your regular funds into direct funds can offer several advantages, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Advantages of Direct Funds:
1. Lower Expense Ratio: Direct funds typically have lower expense ratios compared to regular funds since they do not involve distributor commissions. Over time, lower expenses can translate into higher returns for investors.
2. Higher Returns: With lower expenses, direct funds have the potential to generate higher returns over the long term, leading to increased wealth accumulation.
3. Control and Transparency: Investing in direct funds gives you greater control over your investments and allows for better transparency regarding fund performance and NAVs.
Considerations Before Converting:
1. Exit Load: Check if there are any exit loads associated with your current investments in regular funds. Exiting prematurely may result in additional costs.
2. Tax Implications: Evaluate the tax implications of switching from regular to direct funds. Depending on your investment horizon and gains, there may be capital gains tax implications.
3. Investment Expertise: Assess your comfort level and expertise in managing your investments directly. Direct funds require investors to conduct their research and make informed decisions.
! Let's discuss the advantages of sticking with regular funds, especially when investing through a professional Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential.
Benefits of Regular Funds through an MFD with CFP Credential:
1. Expert Guidance: A professional MFD with a CFP credential offers personalized advice tailored to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. They provide valuable insights and recommendations to optimize your investment portfolio.
2. Holistic Financial Planning: MFDs with CFP credentials offer holistic financial planning services beyond just mutual fund investments. They assess your entire financial situation, including income, expenses, liabilities, and goals, to develop a comprehensive financial plan.
3. Risk Management: Professional MFDs employ risk management strategies to mitigate market volatility and minimize losses. They conduct thorough research and due diligence to select suitable funds that align with your risk profile and investment objectives.
4. Regular Monitoring and Review: MFDs continuously monitor your investments and review their performance to ensure they remain aligned with your financial goals. They provide timely updates and recommendations based on changing market conditions and economic outlook.
5. Convenience and Support: MFDs offer convenience by handling all administrative tasks related to your investments, such as documentation, transactions, and account management. They also provide ongoing support and guidance to address any queries or concerns you may have.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds:
1. Lack of Professional Advice: Direct funds require investors to make investment decisions independently without the guidance of a professional advisor. This can be challenging for individuals who lack the expertise or time to conduct thorough research and analysis.
2. Higher Risk of Errors: Investing directly in funds without professional guidance increases the risk of making errors such as selecting inappropriate funds, timing the market incorrectly, or failing to rebalance the portfolio regularly.
3. Limited Access to Resources: Direct investors may have limited access to research tools, market insights, and investment resources compared to those available through professional MFDs. This can hinder their ability to make informed investment decisions.
Conclusion:
Investing in regular funds through a professional MFD with a CFP credential offers numerous benefits, including expert guidance, holistic financial planning, risk management, and ongoing support. By leveraging the expertise of a qualified advisor, you can optimize your investment portfolio and achieve your financial goals more effectively.
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

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

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I have invested in sips from last 5 years but I invested through a brooker and he invested and managed my portfolio in regular mutula funds. I have invested like 8 lakhs and got a market values of like 14 lakhs on that investment, but now I want to convert my regular funds into direct funds. I am confused if i should do that or not. As i have got good returns due to covid 19 dip and ukraine war.
Ans: It's great to hear that your investments have seen significant growth over the past five years, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions. Your disciplined approach to investing has certainly paid off.
Considering converting your regular mutual funds to direct funds is a smart move. Direct funds typically have lower expense ratios compared to regular funds, which can translate to higher returns over the long term. As a Certified Financial Planner, I understand your desire to optimize your investment returns and reduce costs where possible.
However, before making the switch, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully:
Benefits of Direct Funds:
• Lower Expense Ratios: Direct funds typically have lower expense ratios compared to regular funds since they do not involve distributor commissions. This means more of your investment stays invested, potentially leading to higher returns over time.
• Control and Transparency: With direct funds, you have direct access to the fund house, allowing for greater control and transparency over your investments. You can monitor your portfolio closely and make informed decisions based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds:
• Self-Management Required: Investing in direct funds requires a certain level of financial literacy and time commitment. You'll need to research and select funds yourself, monitor performance, and make adjustments as needed.
• Lack of Advice: Direct funds do not come with the guidance and support of a financial advisor or distributor. While this may reduce costs, it also means you're solely responsible for managing your investments.
Benefits of Regular Funds through MFD with CFP Credential:
• Professional Guidance: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner who acts as a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) provides you with professional guidance and personalized advice tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.
• Convenience: Your CFP can handle the paperwork, monitor your portfolio, and provide ongoing support, freeing up your time and energy for other priorities.
• Access to Research and Insights: Your CFP has access to research and market insights, helping you make informed investment decisions and navigate market fluctuations effectively.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds:
• Higher Expense Ratios: Regular funds typically have higher expense ratios compared to direct funds due to distributor commissions. While this may eat into your returns slightly, it's essential to weigh this against the value of professional advice and support.
Ultimately, the decision to switch to direct funds or continue with regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner depends on your comfort level with self-management, financial literacy, and the value you place on professional guidance. As your CFP, I'm here to provide you with personalized advice and support to help you make the best decision for your financial future. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or need assistance.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 24, 2024

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Hi sir, I have invested in sips from last 5 years but I invested through a brooker and he invested and managed my portfolio in regular mutula funds. I have invested like 8 lakhs and got a market values of like 14 lakhs on that investment, but now I want to convert my regular funds into direct funds. I am confused if i should do that or not. As i have got good returns due to covid 19 dip and ukraine war.
Ans: It's wonderful to hear that you've seen growth in your investments over the past five years, especially during the challenging times we've faced due to the pandemic and geopolitical events. The returns you've garnered are a testament to the potential of the market and the right timing.

Transitioning from regular mutual funds to direct funds is a decision that many investors grapple with. While regular funds often come with commission fees that are paid to brokers or advisors, direct funds don't have these additional costs. Over time, these fees can eat into your returns, affecting your overall gains.

However, the decision to switch shouldn't be based solely on costs. It's crucial to evaluate the value your broker brings to your investment journey. Do they offer personalized advice, timely updates, or help navigate market volatility? If yes, perhaps it's worth continuing with them despite the higher costs.

But if you feel confident in managing your investments or seek to maximize returns by reducing costs, transitioning to direct funds could be a prudent move. Remember, every investor's journey is unique, and what matters most is aligning your investment strategy with your financial goals.

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Ramalingam

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

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I am a mutual fund investor since 2010 by SIP & Lupsum , Now I am holding Funds Quant Small cap , Quant large & Mid cap , Hdfc 30 Foused fund , Aditya Birla psu equity Fund , & Sbi contra Fund all are direct plan Every month sip is 20000 each Fund shall I continue as it is or any changes
Ans: Kudos on your decade-long journey in mutual fund investments! It's impressive to see your commitment to building wealth through disciplined investing.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I understand the importance of periodically reviewing and adjusting your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Here are some considerations regarding your current portfolio:

Diversification: Your portfolio appears to be well-diversified across different fund categories, which is commendable. Diversification helps spread risk and potentially enhance returns over the long term.
Performance Evaluation: Evaluate the performance of each fund in your portfolio relative to its benchmark and peer group. Ensure that the funds are consistently meeting your expectations and delivering satisfactory returns.
Fund Manager Track Record: Assess the track record and expertise of the fund managers managing your investments. Consistent and experienced fund management can significantly influence the performance of mutual fund schemes.
Expense Ratio: Keep an eye on the expense ratio of your funds, as lower expenses can directly impact your returns over time. Direct plans typically have lower expense ratios compared to regular plans, allowing you to maximize your investment returns.
Market Conditions: Stay attuned to prevailing market conditions and economic trends that may impact the performance of your investments. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice based on the current market scenario.
Ultimately, the decision to continue with your existing SIPs or make changes depends on various factors, including your investment objectives, risk tolerance, and market outlook. Regularly reviewing your portfolio and seeking professional guidance can help you make informed investment decisions and stay on track to achieve your financial goals.

Keep up the good work, and remember that consistency and discipline are key to long-term investment success!

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What is your monthly contribution to EPF, NPS and MFs?

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Ans: Hello.
Whatever you are saying is just shocking. The track record of TCS is not like that, as you described in your question. It would be better to contact TCS again and ask them when they will give on boarding letter. It is not clear from your query whether your son had done some correspondence with TCS or not related to the job offered. It is also not clear which two exams he appeared in. If not selected in a campus interview, searching for a job might be tedious but not so difficult. Ask your son to post a strong resume on the LinkedIn portal and remain in touch with his seniors. Please visit the websites of renowned companies daily to search for vacancies. There are many job-offering portals where he can register his name. Please ask the college placement division for any placement opportunities.
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T S Khurana

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Tax Expert - Answered on Nov 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 11, 2024Hindi
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Money
Can you please suggest on capital gains as per Indian taxation laws arising in the below two queries : 1) property purchased with joint ownership, me and my wife’s name in 2015 at a cost of 64,80,000, housing improvements done for the cost of 1000000 and brokerages of 200000 paid and sold the same property at 10000000 in Dec 2023? 2) 87% of the proceeds got from the deal i.e 8700000, have been reinvested to pay 25% amount in purchasing another joint ownership property in Dec 2023, 3) I have invested in another under construction property in Nov 2023 by taking housing loan, which is on me and my wife’s name worth 1.4 cr, here the primary applicant is me only while wife is just made a Co applicant in the builder buyer agreement and also on the housing loan . So what are the LTCG tax liabilities arising from the above 3 scenarios for FY 2023-2024 and FY 2024-2025. I intend to sale off the property acquired in (2) by Dec 2024 and use that proceeds to close the housing loan for the property acquired in (3), will this sale of property be inviting any tax liabilities if the complete proceeds received from the sale of the property in (2) would be utilised to close the housing loan taken in Nov 2023 for the property in (3) ? Since in FY 23-24, I would be claiming the LTCG from the sale proceeds of 1) invested in the purchase of property in 2), and I intend to sale off this property in Dec 2024, will the LTCG claim be forfeited on the property sale in (1), should I hold this property at least for further 1 year so that sale of this property in 2) will not invite STCG?
Ans: (A). Let's first talk about F/Y 2023-24 :
You jointly sold a Property during the year for Rs.76.80 lakhs (64.80+10.00+2.00), & sold the same for Rs.100.00 lakhs.
You have jointly also purchased Property No.3 (I suppose it is Residential only), for Rs.140.00 lakhs.
You should avail exemption u/s-54 & file your ITR accordingly. Please disclose all details about sale & purchase in your ITR.
02. Now coming to the F/Y 2024-25 :
You intend to Sell Property No.2, which was acquired in 2023-24. Any Gain on Sale of it would be Short Term capital Gains & taxed accordingly.
Alternatively, you may hold this sale of property no.2 (for 2 years from its purchase) & avoid STCG
You are free to utilize the sale proceeds in a way you like, including paying off your housing Loan.
Please note to avail exemption u/s 54 only from investment in property no.3 & not 2.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.

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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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