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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 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
azad Question by azad on Nov 19, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Dear Sir, I am investing 40000/- per month since 2 years my Goal is to create 2 Cr till i reach 60. I am 45 now. My Investment HDFC Flexi, Parag Flexi, Nippon small cap, SBI large & Mid cap, Axis Blue chip, HDFC mid-cap oppourtunites, kotak emerging, Nippon India multi-cap fund, HDFC pharma, HSBC value fund. Pls advise. Thank You

Ans: You are investing Rs. 40,000 per month across various mutual funds. This disciplined approach is commendable. At 45, your goal to accumulate Rs. 2 crore by 60 is achievable. Let’s evaluate your portfolio and optimise it to align with your goal.

Strengths of Your Investments
Diversification Across Market Caps: Your portfolio includes small-cap, large-cap, and multi-cap funds.
Sectoral Exposure: The inclusion of a pharma fund offers specific growth potential.
Blend of Strategies: Value and growth strategies are present, providing balance.
Consistency: A monthly SIP for two years reflects financial discipline.
Areas That Need Improvement
1. Overlapping Funds
Many funds in your portfolio have similar objectives.
This results in unnecessary duplication and reduces efficiency.
2. Sectoral Overexposure
The pharma fund increases sector-specific risks.
Sectoral funds should be a minor part of a balanced portfolio.
3. Lack of Focus on Goal Alignment
The portfolio lacks a clear connection to your Rs. 2 crore goal.
Optimising fund selection is necessary to stay on track.
4. Limited Allocation to Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds provide stability and consistent growth.
Your current allocation to large-caps is inadequate.
5. Tax-Efficiency Awareness
New tax rules for mutual funds need consideration.
Restructuring may help minimise tax liabilities in the future.
Recommendations for Portfolio Optimisation
1. Streamline Your Portfolio
Reduce overlapping funds to improve returns.
Retain 5-7 funds that cover all market caps and investment styles.
2. Increase Focus on Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds offer lower volatility and steady growth.
Increase allocation to ensure a balanced portfolio.
3. Minimise Sectoral Funds
Limit sectoral funds to 5-10% of your portfolio.
Diversify across sectors instead of focusing on one.
4. Add a Balanced or Hybrid Fund
Hybrid funds provide stability during market downturns.
Consider allocating a portion of your investment here.
5. Target Your Rs. 2 Crore Goal
Increase SIP contributions if possible.
Factor in inflation to ensure the corpus retains its value.
6. Review Your Portfolio Regularly
Monitor fund performance every 6-12 months.
Replace underperforming funds with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner.
7. Opt for Regular Funds Through a CFP
Regular funds offer professional advice and support.
This helps in managing your portfolio effectively.
Key Insights on Direct Funds and Actively Managed Funds
Disadvantages of Direct Funds:

Requires extensive market knowledge.
Lack of professional guidance increases risk.
Time-intensive for monitoring and decision-making.
Benefits of Regular Funds via CFP:

Get expert advice for fund selection and rebalancing.
Avoid emotional investment decisions.
Align investments with financial goals.
Actively Managed Funds vs Index Funds:

Actively managed funds can outperform benchmarks over the long term.
Fund managers adjust portfolios for changing market conditions.
Index funds lack flexibility and may deliver lower returns.
Additional Steps to Strengthen Your Finances
1. Emergency Fund
Ensure 6-12 months’ expenses are saved in liquid funds.
This provides a financial cushion during emergencies.
2. Adequate Insurance Coverage
Have term insurance with Rs. 1 crore coverage.
Maintain health insurance for yourself and your family with Rs. 20 lakh coverage.
3. Plan for Post-Retirement Income
Invest in balanced funds or SWP for steady income post-retirement.
Avoid products with low returns like annuities.
4. Tax Efficiency
Keep ELSS funds for tax-saving under Section 80C.
Review fund taxation under the new capital gains rules.
5. Focus on Goal-Based Investing
Define clear financial goals for retirement and other needs.
Allocate investments to each goal for better clarity and planning.
Final Insights
Your current investment strategy shows great discipline. However, reducing overlapping funds and sectoral overexposure will optimise returns. Adding large-cap and hybrid funds will balance growth and stability. Increase your SIP or invest surplus funds to meet your Rs. 2 crore target comfortably. Seek professional advice to align your portfolio with your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

Listen
Money
My self Neeraj Bajpai and invested Rs. 47000.00 per month in mutual fund through SIP in Axis m/f, SBI Contra fund, Nippon fund, Parag Parikh, Motilal Oswal, Tata etc. My Goal is 2 CR next 9.5 years, its is sufficient. Already invesedt in M/F in Rs. 20 Lakhs for next 9.5 years. Please advise me.
Ans: Hello Neeraj, it's great to see your commitment to investing in mutual funds through SIPs for your financial goals. Let's delve into your situation and explore whether your current investment strategy aligns with your goal of accumulating 2 crores in the next 9.5 years.

Here are some key points to consider:

Current Investment: Your monthly SIP of Rs. 47,000 spread across various mutual fund schemes indicates a disciplined approach towards wealth creation.
Goal Analysis: Your target of accumulating 2 crores in the next 9.5 years is ambitious yet achievable with proper planning and consistent investing.
Assessment of Investment Horizon: With a relatively short time horizon of 9.5 years, it's essential to strike a balance between growth-oriented and stable investment options.
Diversification: Your investment portfolio appears diversified across multiple mutual fund schemes, which is a prudent approach to mitigate risks and capture potential returns from various market segments.
Risk Management: Given the volatility inherent in equity markets, it's crucial to periodically assess and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains in line with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitoring the performance of your mutual fund investments and making necessary adjustments based on changing market conditions and your evolving financial situation is imperative for long-term success.
Professional Guidance: While you're already on the right track with your investments, seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner can provide you with personalized insights and strategies to optimize your portfolio for achieving your financial goals.
In summary, while your current investment approach demonstrates prudence and commitment, it's essential to continue monitoring your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards your goal of accumulating 2 crores in the next 9.5 years. With proper planning, discipline, and professional guidance, you can work towards achieving financial security and prosperity for yourself and your loved ones.

Keep up the good work, Neeraj, and stay focused on your financial goals. Your dedication to investing will undoubtedly yield fruitful results in the years to come.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 19, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hii,I am 37 years old and am a central govt. Employee. My monthly in hand salary is aproximately ? 70000. My investments as of now are as under 01. PPF :- 8500 pm (current bal. ?872000 in this fund.mature on 31/03/2032) 02. Sukanya :- 2000 pm ( opened in sep'16 Bal. ? 190000) 03. Sbi life :- ? 15000 pa ( mature in 2037 Cur.bal. ?150000 market base fund) 04. SIPs :- ? 6250 pm (a).:- sbi magnum midcap fund :? 2000pm (b).:-sbi magnum global fund. : ?1000 pm (c).:- sbi small cap fund : ? 2000pm (d).:- Moti.Oswal microcap 250 ? 1250pm ( current bal (4 SIPs) aprox. ? 300000) 05. NPS :- cur.bal aprox. ? 1350000 (Current contribution (emplo. + govt.) ? 11628/ month . It will increase as per DA, increament's hike as per rule) Can I achieve 3--4 cr goal by the age of 60 ?
Ans: Firstly, I commend your proactive approach towards financial planning, especially at a relatively young age. Let's delve into your current investment portfolio and evaluate the feasibility of achieving your long-term goal of accumulating 3-4 crores by the age of 60.

Assessing Current Investments

Your existing investments showcase a blend of traditional and market-linked instruments, reflecting a diversified approach to wealth creation. Here's a breakdown of your portfolio:

PPF and Sukanya Samriddhi: These schemes offer tax-efficient savings avenues, providing stability and long-term growth potential.
SBI Life Insurance: While life insurance provides financial protection, ensure that the chosen policy aligns with your risk profile and long-term goals.
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs): Investing in mutual funds through SIPs allows for disciplined wealth accumulation, harnessing the power of compounding over time.
National Pension System (NPS): NPS offers retirement savings with tax benefits, ensuring financial security post-retirement.
Evaluating Future Wealth Projection

To determine the feasibility of reaching your 3-4 crore goal by the age of 60, consider factors such as:

Contribution Amount: Evaluate if your current investment contributions align with your target corpus. Assess if there's room to increase contributions over time to bridge any potential shortfall.

Investment Growth: Project the potential growth of your investments based on historical returns and market performance. Account for fluctuations and adjust your expectations accordingly.

Inflation: Factor in the impact of inflation on your future expenses and investment returns. Adjust your target corpus to maintain purchasing power and meet lifestyle needs.

Optimizing Investment Strategy

To enhance your wealth accumulation potential and work towards your target goal, consider the following strategies:

Review and Adjust: Regularly review your investment portfolio and make necessary adjustments to ensure alignment with your financial goals and changing market conditions.

Increase Contribution: Explore opportunities to increase your investment contributions over time, especially in high-growth potential assets such as equity mutual funds or diversified portfolios.

Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to develop a customized financial plan tailored to your specific needs, risk tolerance, and long-term objectives.

Maintaining Discipline and Patience

Building a substantial corpus requires discipline, patience, and a long-term perspective. Stay committed to your investment strategy, monitor progress regularly, and make informed decisions to navigate market fluctuations effectively.

Conclusion

While achieving a 3-4 crore corpus by the age of 60 is ambitious, it's certainly attainable with prudent financial planning, disciplined investing, and periodic review. By optimizing your investment strategy, maximizing contributions, and seeking professional guidance, you can work towards securing a financially secure future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 01, 2024

Listen
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
am now 42 year old I don't have Any investment till now just started 4 month below I want to retire after 10 years but I want fund should reach atleast 2.50cr how much should I invest more and my below funds are ok to continue I can take risk canara Rabeco equity Hybrid fund regular plan growth 5000 month ICICI Prudential equity &Debt Fund growth. 11000 month Mirai Asset Emerging Bluechip fund Growth 2500 month Motilal Oswal Midcap fund regular growth 10000 month Nippon india Large cap fund Growth 10000 month Nippon India Small Cap fund Growth 15000 month Quant Active Fund growth 11000 month SBI Large & Midcap Fund regular growth 7500 month Tata digital India fund regular growth 6500 month Nippon multiCap 15000
Ans: Evaluating Your Investment Plan
You have started investing recently and aim to retire in 10 years with a corpus of Rs 2.50 crores. You are currently investing in several mutual funds. Let’s assess your current investment strategy and determine how much more you need to invest to achieve your goal.

Current Investment Contributions
Your current investments per month are as follows:

Canara Rabeco Equity Hybrid Fund: Rs 5,000
ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund: Rs 11,000
Mirai Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund: Rs 2,500
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund: Rs 10,000
Nippon India Large Cap Fund: Rs 10,000
Nippon India Small Cap Fund: Rs 15,000
Quant Active Fund: Rs 11,000
SBI Large & Midcap Fund: Rs 7,500
Tata Digital India Fund: Rs 6,500
Nippon MultiCap: Rs 15,000
Total Monthly Investment
Your total monthly investment is Rs 93,000.

Risk Tolerance and Investment Horizon
Given your risk tolerance and 10-year horizon, equity investments are suitable. However, it’s essential to have a balanced portfolio to mitigate risks.

Assessing Fund Choices
Hybrid Funds: These funds balance between equity and debt, reducing volatility. However, they might not provide the highest returns.

Equity & Debt Funds: These also balance risk and return but focus more on equity.

Large Cap Funds: These funds are less volatile and suitable for stable growth.

Mid Cap and Small Cap Funds: These have higher growth potential but are more volatile.

Digital India Fund: This sector-specific fund focuses on technology, which is high-risk but potentially high-reward.

MultiCap Funds: These funds diversify across large, mid, and small cap stocks, balancing risk and return.

Recommendation for Asset Allocation
Diversification: Ensure your investments are diversified across various sectors and market capitalizations.

Balance Risk: Balance your high-risk investments with safer, more stable options.

Regular Review: Regularly review and adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and performance.

Calculating Future Corpus
To reach Rs 2.50 crores in 10 years, you need an effective strategy. Assuming an average annual return of 12%, let’s calculate the required monthly investment.

Required Monthly Investment
Based on a 12% annual return, you might need to invest approximately Rs 1,00,000 to Rs 1,10,000 per month to reach your goal. This is an estimate and actual returns may vary.

Steps to Achieve Your Goal
Increase SIP Amount: Consider increasing your SIP contributions by Rs 7,000 to Rs 17,000 per month.

Review Fund Performance: Regularly review the performance of your funds. Replace underperforming funds with better options.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner: Periodic consultation with a CFP can help you stay on track.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds
Professional Management: Actively managed funds benefit from professional fund managers’ expertise.

Market Opportunities: Fund managers can exploit market opportunities for higher returns.

Risk Management: Active funds often have strategies to manage and mitigate risks.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Limited Returns: Index funds aim to match the market, not outperform it.

No Flexibility: They lack the flexibility to react to market changes quickly.

Benefits of Regular Funds via MFD with CFP Credential
Expert Advice: Regular funds offer access to expert advice and financial planning.

Better Performance: These funds often outperform direct funds due to professional management.

Comprehensive Planning: Investing through a CFP ensures a holistic approach to financial planning.

Conclusion
Your investment strategy is on the right track. With a few adjustments and increased contributions, you can achieve your retirement goal. Regular reviews and professional guidance will ensure you stay on course.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Harsh

Harsh Bharwani  |69 Answers  |Ask -

Entrepreneurship Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025Hindi
Listen
Career
Is laundry franchise business is profitable?
Ans: The laundry business is a profitable venture due to consistent demand, low entry barriers, and a recurring revenue model. Urban areas, in particular, drive growth with their high population of working professionals, students, and families who prefer outsourcing laundry services for convenience.

Profit margins typically range between 20% and 40%, with opportunities to boost earnings through additional services like ironing, dry cleaning, and fabric care. The business offers flexibility in investment and scalability, from self-service laundromats to
full-service operations.

However, challenges such as competition, operational costs, and seasonal demand fluctuations require efficient management. With proper planning, market research, and a focus on customer satisfaction, the laundry business can provide steady income and long-term growth potential.

Things to Consider

1. Research and Location: Target high-demand areas such as residential neighbourhoods, business districts, or near universities.
2. Business Model: Decide between self-service laundromats, full-service laundry, mobile laundry (pickup and delivery), or dry cleaning services.
3. Investment: Budget for equipment, supplies, and operational costs. Franchising can be a lower-risk option for new entrepreneurs.
4. Setup and Legal Requirements: Register the business, obtain necessary licenses, and invest in high-quality, eco-friendly equipment and detergents.
5. Services and Pricing: Offer competitive pricing for services such as washing, ironing, dry cleaning, and delivery. Consider subscription plans or loyalty programs to attract regular customers.
6. Marketing and Customer Care: Build a recognizable brand, use digital marketing to reach your audience, and provide excellent customer service with timely and convenient options.

The laundry business can be a sustainable and profitable venture with strategic planning and effective management.

...Read more

Pushpa

Pushpa R  |42 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025Hindi
Listen
Health
I’ve been practicing yoga for a while now, but I’ve recently started noticing some discomfort in my lower back, especially after doing forward folds and back bends. I try to listen to my body and not push myself too hard, but sometimes I still feel strain or tightness in my back the next day. I’m especially concerned about preventing any long-term damage, and I’d appreciate some tips on how to protect my back while still getting the benefits of these stretches.
Ans: Discomfort in the lower back during yoga is often due to improper alignment or over-stretching. Here’s how to protect your back while continuing your practice:

Engage Your Core: Always activate your core muscles during forward folds and backbends. A strong core supports your lower back and prevents strain.

Modify Forward Folds: Avoid rounding your lower back. Instead, keep your spine long and bend from your hips, not your waist. You can slightly bend your knees to reduce tension on your lower back.

Gentle Backbends: For backbends, focus on opening your chest rather than over-arching your lower back. Start with smaller poses like Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) and gradually work towards deeper bends like Camel Pose (Ustrasana) with proper guidance.

Use Props: Blocks or cushions can help reduce strain and improve alignment. For example, place a block under your hands during forward folds.

Stretch Your Hamstrings and Hips: Tight hamstrings and hips can pull on your lower back, causing discomfort. Incorporate poses like Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana) and Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana).

It’s crucial to work with a yoga coach who can assess your alignment and suggest modifications tailored to you. This will help you avoid injury and enjoy a safer practice.

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/

...Read more

Pushpa

Pushpa R  |42 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Listen
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Listen
Money
Am currently 50...I dont hv job. .Iam invested in mmt but right now am 15% on my PF....I invested 19lacs on mkt. ...wht shud ido ?
Ans: You have made bold moves in investing Rs. 19 lakhs in the market. Being 15% down on your portfolio is concerning but manageable. Let us evaluate your current position and suggest actionable steps.

Key Concerns
Jobless Situation: Absence of steady income creates financial pressure.

Market Volatility: A 15% loss indicates exposure to high-risk investments.

Emergency Needs: Liquidity might be limited if all funds are in the market.

Long-Term Goals: Planning for retirement is essential at this stage.

Strengths
Investments in Market: Rs. 19 lakhs is a good corpus to build wealth.

Time to Recover: At 50, there is still time for strategic financial planning.

Aggressive Approach: Shows you are willing to take risks, which can be an advantage.

Recommendations
Reassess Portfolio Allocation
Review your investments in mutual funds or stocks.

Shift a portion to balanced or hybrid funds for stability.

Reduce exposure to high-risk segments like small caps or sectoral funds.

Create a Contingency Fund
Set aside Rs. 3-5 lakhs for emergencies.

Use liquid funds or short-term fixed deposits for easy access.

Explore Income Sources
Find part-time or freelance opportunities to ease financial stress.

Rental income, tutoring, or consulting can supplement your needs.

Stop Panic Selling
Do not redeem investments in a downturn.

Hold onto quality assets for market recovery.

Diversify Investments
Avoid putting all money in equities.

Consider fixed income options like Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (when eligible), or debt funds.

Plan for Retirement
Evaluate the gap between your current corpus and retirement needs.

Use Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) later for regular post-retirement income.

Monitor Regularly
Review your portfolio every 6 months.

Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner for rebalancing.

Final Insights
Your situation requires balanced risk-taking and income generation strategies. Preserve capital while focusing on gradual recovery. Discipline and informed decisions will help secure your financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |479 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025Hindi
Listen
Relationship
i have been married for months and recently found out that my husband is talking secretly with his workmate like 2 months before wedding.i saw all the conversation it seems that both of them are flirting with each other.but then my husband clarify that it was nothing and nothing happened between them but now im literally confuse if i had the right decision of marrying him.And we talk honetly and he told me everything but still i have this doubt esp we will be a long distance again????And he promise he will not talk again with anyone he gave me all his password for all his account and he even buy cctv so that i can monitor him while his away.please help me i dont know what to do i love him dearly and i want to move forward with our future but still have this doubts what if he will do it again????
Ans: The fact that your husband has been open and taken steps to reassure you, like sharing his passwords and even installing CCTV, shows that he's trying to rebuild trust and be transparent. These actions suggest he's serious about addressing your concerns and committed to making you feel secure in the relationship.

That said, rebuilding trust isn't something that happens instantly. It takes time, consistent effort, and ongoing communication. It's important to acknowledge your feelings and give yourself the space to process them. Feeling doubt after something like this is a normal response, but it doesn't have to define your relationship going forward.

It's vital to keep the lines of communication open. Talk openly about your feelings, worries, and needs. This kind of dialogue can help both of you understand each other better and strengthen your bond. You might also find it helpful to discuss and agree on clear boundaries for interactions with others, especially given the long-distance aspect of your relationship. This can help create a sense of security and prevent misunderstandings.

While it's important to acknowledge what happened, try to focus on the present and what you both can do to nurture your relationship moving forward. If you find that your doubts and anxieties are overwhelming, seeking the guidance of a couples' therapist might be beneficial. A therapist can help facilitate deeper conversations and provide strategies to rebuild trust and strengthen your relationship.

It's okay to feel unsure, but also recognize the effort your husband is putting in. Trust takes time to rebuild, but with love, dedication, and mutual effort, you can move forward together. Remember, it's a journey, and it's okay to take things one step at a time.

...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