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Should I Be Happy With My SIP Returns?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 04, 2025

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
Dhamotharan Question by Dhamotharan on Feb 03, 2025Hindi
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Hi, I am investing below SIP along with return given. Can you please assist whether my returns are good or anything i need to improve in SIP?.SIP-1, Invested 365000-Returns 259000-6.1 years, SIP-2, Invested 60000-Returns 1300-1 year

Ans: Your SIP performance needs a detailed evaluation. Let’s analyse it from different angles.

SIP-1: Performance Review
You invested Rs 3,65,000 over 6.1 years.
Your current returns stand at Rs 2,59,000.
Your returns are lower than expected over this period.
A good equity mutual fund should give better results in over 6 years.
The returns suggest either low-performing funds or market fluctuations.
Reviewing fund categories and allocation is important.
Check if your SIP is in large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap funds.
Large-cap funds tend to give lower returns but are stable.
Mid-cap and small-cap funds have higher risks but better long-term potential.
If this fund is underperforming its category, a switch is needed.
Compare your fund’s 5-year and 10-year category average returns.
If your SIP is in a debt fund, returns may be lower but steady.
Exit only after checking exit loads and taxation.
If this SIP is in an underperforming fund, consider shifting to a better one.
SIP-2: Performance Review
You invested Rs 60,000 in 1 year.
Your returns are just Rs 1,300.
This is a very short period to judge performance.
Equity mutual funds need at least 5 years to show real potential.
If this is a debt fund, returns will naturally be lower.
If this is an equity fund, check market trends before deciding.
SIPs work better when invested for long periods.
Continue this SIP for a few more years before judging.
Avoid making changes based on short-term volatility.
If this SIP is in an actively managed fund, review its fund manager’s history.
Key Areas to Improve
1. Portfolio Diversification

A balanced portfolio should have large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Mid-cap and small-cap funds give better long-term returns but are volatile.
If all your SIPs are in large-cap funds, returns may be lower.
Debt funds help for short-term stability, but they should not dominate equity SIPs.
2. Reviewing SIP Performance Regularly

Compare your SIP returns with the benchmark index.
Check category average returns before deciding on a switch.
If the fund consistently underperforms, move to a better one.
Review SIPs every 6 months for better portfolio management.
3. Expense Ratio and Fund Management

High expense ratios eat into your returns.
If your fund’s expense ratio is very high, look for a lower-cost alternative.
Actively managed funds with strong fund managers give better long-term returns.
Avoid direct funds as they require expertise to manage well.
4. Long-Term Strategy for Better Returns

SIPs need time to generate compounding benefits.
Avoid redeeming funds early due to short-term market movements.
Invest for a minimum of 5 years in equity funds for wealth creation.
Equity SIPs work best when held for 10-15 years.
Action Plan
Step 1: Analyse Fund Performance

Check if your SIPs are in large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap categories.
Compare with benchmark returns.
If any SIP underperforms for more than 3 years, consider shifting.
Step 2: Increase Allocation in High-Growth Sectors

Consider increasing exposure to high-growth funds.
Balanced allocation between large, mid, and small-cap funds is important.
Step 3: Stay Invested for the Long Term

SIPs need at least 5 years for equity growth.
Continue investing to benefit from compounding.
Avoid stopping SIPs due to short-term losses.
Step 4: Rebalance Portfolio Every Year

Shift funds if they consistently underperform over 3-5 years.
Align your investments based on financial goals.
Avoid emotional decisions based on short-term trends.
Final Insights
Your SIPs need some adjustments for better returns.
SIP-1 is underperforming over 6 years and needs a fund review.
SIP-2 is too new to judge and should be continued longer.
A diversified portfolio with large, mid, and small-cap funds works best.
Actively managed funds with strong fund managers give better long-term returns.
Review your funds every 6 months and rebalance yearly.
Staying invested for the long term will generate wealth.
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.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

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Hi I have following SIPs. Can you suggest whether they are good, bad or ugly and suggest changes if any. Quant small cap direct growth-10000 Canara robecco small cap DG- 10000 PGIM india mid cap Opp DG-10000 SBI contra Direct plan growth-10000 Parag parik flexi cap DG-10000 Quant infrastructure DG-10000 ICICI prudential tech fund-10000 Tata digital India regular plan-10000 Aditya birla sun life digital India regular plan -10000 - I hv started investing in last 6months and aim is to make atleast 3cr by next 10yrs. I hv certain other investments in SIPs, equity and PF (about 50000 per month) Thank you
Ans: Your portfolio seems well-diversified across different categories and themes, which is a good approach. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Small Cap Exposure: Having significant exposure to small-cap funds like Quant Small Cap and Canara Robeco Small Cap can add volatility to your portfolio. While they have the potential for high returns, they also come with higher risk. Ensure you have a high-risk tolerance and a long-term investment horizon if you intend to stay invested in these funds.
Sectoral and Theme Funds: Funds like ICICI Prudential Tech Fund, Tata Digital India, and Aditya Birla Sun Life Digital India focus on specific sectors/themes. While these can offer opportunities for growth, they also carry concentration risk. Monitor these funds closely and be prepared for volatility, considering the dynamic nature of sectoral investments.
Mid Cap and Flexi Cap: PGIM India Mid Cap Opp and Parag Parik Flexi Cap provide exposure to mid-cap and flexible-cap segments, which can complement your small-cap investments. Ensure you review the performance and portfolio composition of these funds regularly to confirm they align with your investment objectives.
Regular Review: Given your long-term goal of reaching 3 crores in 10 years, regularly review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as necessary. Consider rebalancing periodically to maintain your desired asset allocation and risk level.
Risk Management: Since you have a significant amount invested across various funds, ensure you have an adequate emergency fund and insurance coverage to mitigate any unforeseen risks.
Overall, your portfolio appears to have the potential to achieve your long-term financial goals, but it's essential to monitor and adjust it periodically based on your changing financial situation and market conditions. Consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs and objectives.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 15, 2024Hindi
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I am 42 years old and have been investing in SIPs since 2009 when i was 31 YO. My SIP include in 2 mid cap fund (Sundaram Midcap and HDFC Midcap Opportunities) of 4k, 2k in IDFC Flexi cap, 2k in Axis Small Cap, 1k in ABSLI ELSS. Periodic LUMPSUM investments. My investment horizon is till 60 yrs. Please suggest if its good enough or i need to review and add.
Ans: Your disciplined approach to SIP investing is commendable and sets a strong foundation for your financial future. Here's a comprehensive review and some suggestions:
1. Review Existing Portfolio: Evaluate the performance of your current SIPs against relevant benchmarks and peer funds. Ensure that the funds you've chosen have consistently delivered satisfactory returns and align with your risk profile and investment goals.
2. Diversification: While mid-cap and flexi-cap funds offer growth potential, consider diversifying your portfolio further. Include large-cap funds for stability and exposure to blue-chip companies. Additionally, explore thematic or sectoral funds to capitalize on emerging trends or sectors poised for growth.
3. Risk Management: Given your investment horizon until the age of 60, it's crucial to strike a balance between growth and stability. Allocate a portion of your portfolio to debt funds or hybrid funds to mitigate volatility and preserve capital, especially as you approach retirement age.
4. Regular Review: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and make necessary adjustments based on changing market dynamics, fund performance, and your evolving financial goals. Rebalance your portfolio if required to maintain your desired asset allocation.
5. Professional Guidance: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to assess your current financial situation, align your investment strategy with your long-term goals, and make informed decisions about portfolio optimization and asset allocation.
6. Asset Allocation: Ensure your asset allocation is in line with your risk tolerance and investment horizon. As you approach retirement age, gradually shift towards a more conservative allocation to safeguard your accumulated wealth.
7. Emergency Fund: While focusing on long-term investments, don't forget to maintain an adequate emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses or financial emergencies without disrupting your investment portfolio.
Overall, your investment approach appears sound, but periodic reviews and adjustments may be necessary to ensure your portfolio remains optimized for achieving your long-term financial objectives.

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Dear madam I have this suitaution in my life. Plz do guide me with this. So i have 2 married sisters and a brother with who i dont get along well. We used to be close back then. Later on my father passed away and then i got busy searching work. After getting work i got carried away with my newly found friendship with a boy i started spending much on him rather then my family. But still then i never neglected my family every kind of help i tried to give them. In the meanwhile i used to take care of my bedridden grandmother who used to stay in another state. Then my second sister started feeding everyone's mind against me saying i dont help them with money and i spend most on my grandmother and cousin. Though my sister were earning well still they waited me to spend on them which i stopped by then as they were earning. And there used to be a real good fight with my sisters and me regarding money issue and als my marriage thing and i gave them bitter words and also curses which i regret to this day thinking how could i do hated thing to my family .In next few years my sister got married but my second sister never invited me for her marriage and did all her wedding plans in my absence and i als never attended her wedding. I attended my 3rd sister wedding. After that my second sister plotted a plan against me by taking everyone on her side and kept me out of all the family functions. I just ignored them and decided to never to get bothered by any of this. Now the problem my 3rd sister is pregnant and they have planned a babyshower and like they are just telling me to attend it. To be honest they just told me a day before the function. How to handle this. Should i attend? And how to deal with such kind of people they seem to take advantage of my helpless. Please guide me on how to become a strong girl while taking desicion.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Learn the skill of staying away from all this drama. If you felt secure with who you are, you wouldn't think much whether you got invited or not. Do remember, people will be on your side sometimes and not on your side at other times. This goes for friends are family; so learn to be comfortable with that...
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Dear Sir, What is the best % of SWP one can think of from Portfolio value. I am retired now and have say 1 Cr as MF and Share portfolio. I want to go for 40000 SWP per month thereby making 4.8% as SWP. If this is good to have this for 15 yrs
Ans: Your question shows great care for your financial future. Many retirees ignore this step. You have already taken a wise move. You want steady income. You want safety. You want long life for your money. These are very important points. I truly appreciate your clarity.

» Understanding your present plan
Your idea is simple. You have Rs 1 crore. You want Rs 40000 each month. This means Rs 4.8 lakh each year. That is 4.8 percent of your money. This is not very high. This is not very low. It sits in the middle range. Many retirees try for 7 or 8 percent. That can put pressure on the portfolio. Your 4.8 percent is more reasonable. It supports discipline. It keeps stress low.

Your idea is for 15 years. That is a good time frame. It gives space for your funds to grow. It gives time for market cycles. It also gives time for inflation adjustments.

» Why withdrawal rate matters
Your SWP rate decides how long your money will last. A high rate can drain funds soon. A very low rate may not support your monthly needs. Your 4.8 percent sits well. It balances life needs and portfolio health.

When you draw money from a mixed portfolio, the growth side helps refill your withdrawn money. The stability side helps reduce fall during bad years. This mix helps the SWP stay steady.

» Why a proper structure is important
A SWP is not only a monthly withdrawal. It is a full system. The system needs planning. It needs regular reviews. It needs a clear asset split. It needs a cushion for weak market years.

If you set this structure well now, your SWP can stay safe. Your money can stretch for many years. You can keep peace of mind.

» The importance of a balanced mix
Your portfolio may hold equity funds, hybrid funds, and debt funds. A clear mix reduces risk. It gives smooth cash flow. Equity gives growth. Debt gives steady flow. Hybrid gives balance.

Because you want monthly income for 15 years, you need a balance that supports steady SWP. A pure equity plan can shake too much. A pure debt plan may not grow at a good pace. A balanced mix is ideal.

» Equity funds need careful use
Some investors put large money in equity for SWP. This can work in strong markets. This can fail in weak markets. Your SWP must survive both market moods. That is why pure equity for SWP is not safe.

Also, you should prefer actively managed funds over index funds for long SWP. Index funds follow the index blindly. They do not manage risk actively. They cannot adjust to market cycles. Actively managed funds have a professional fund manager. A skilled manager helps in limiting risk in low years. This helps protect principal in SWP years. This support is not present in index funds.

» Debt funds form the stabiliser
Debt funds bring peace to the portfolio. They help during bad market years. They help the SWP stay steady. Because debt funds follow market rates, they work as the anchor. For SWP, this anchor is very helpful.

If you use direct debt funds, you must remember that direct funds need more tracking. They need active reviews by you. Many retired investors find this hard. Regular plans taken through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill provide guidance. Regular plans also give handholding. This handholding helps avoid wrong exits.

» How to view your Rs 40000 monthly need
You may need some money for basic needs. You may need some money for health care. You may need some money for family support. You may need some money for personal comfort. Rs 40000 per month seems a balanced number.

It does not put too much pressure on the money. It is not a very heavy load. It fits well with a Rs 1 crore fund.

» Inflation needs attention
Inflation will rise. Costs will rise. Your need will rise. Your SWP should rise slowly over time. You cannot fix your SWP for 15 years at one number. That may reduce your buying power.

A small rise every two or three years will help you beat inflation. This rise must be slow. It must match your portfolio growth.

» Risk of sharp market falls
Sharp falls can disturb SWP. A sudden big drop in equity value can pull down your portfolio. This may cause you to withdraw when market is low. That is not good. To fix this, you need enough stability in your mix.

A proper allocation in debt funds and hybrid funds can reduce this issue. You will get smoother cash flow. You will not have to worry about market news every day.

» Role of emergency money
Please keep an emergency amount. Keep this aside. Do not include it in your SWP plan. You may need money for urgent health needs. You may need money for home needs. Emergency funds help you avoid sudden selling.

A good emergency fund gives peace. It protects your SWP from sudden shocks.

» Tax rules for withdrawals
Every SWP withdrawal may include some gains. Tax will apply based on the type of fund and the gain period. This tax can have impact on net flow. You must plan for this in your withdrawal design.

Equity fund rules:

Gains under one year are short-term. These are taxed at 20 percent.

Gains above one year are long-term. Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5 percent.

Debt fund rules:

Both short-term and long-term gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

This tax part should not scare you. A proper plan can reduce the tax burden. A planned SWP can help you manage gains carefully.

» Why a Certified Financial Planner helps
You may handle small things by yourself. But retirement planning is delicate. One wrong move can disturb the whole plan. A Certified Financial Planner gives a clear road map. He helps you set the best mix. He reviews the plan every year. He adjusts the plan for market and life events.

This guidance is very useful in SWP because SWP needs discipline.

» Why not consider real estate
Some retirees think of using real estate for income. But real estate needs heavy work. It needs tenant work. It needs repair work. It needs legal care. It gives lumpy income. It gives no steady flow. So it is not fit for SWP planning.

Your present goal is steady income. Real estate will not give this.

» Why not consider annuities
Annuities give fixed income. But they lock your money. They give low returns. They do not beat inflation well. They reduce flexibility. For these reasons, they are not ideal for your long-term income.

Your idea of SWP with balanced mix is better.

» Keeping your portfolio healthy for 15 years
To keep your portfolio safe for 15 years, you must follow some habits:

Review every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Adjust asset mix if needed.

Increase SWP amount slowly.

Reduce SWP for one or two years if markets fall very deep.

Protect your money from emotional moves.

Keep a two-year buffer in a low-risk fund.

Keep your growth part running for long.

These habits help your money last for the full 15-year horizon.

» Regular review helps you adapt
Markets will change. Your health may change. Your needs may change. A yearly review will help align your plan. It will help spot issues early. It will help guide the next year’s SWP.

Without reviews, even good plans can fail.

» Why a two-year cushion helps
A cushion fund is a simple idea. Keep two years of SWP in a low-risk debt fund. This money helps you draw income even in bad market years. You will not need to sell equity in weak phases. This protects your overall money. This makes your SWP more stable.

This cushion fund is an extra shield. It supports your 15-year income plan.

» Role of diversification
Your SWP works best when your portfolio is spread well. A spread can include:

Actively managed equity funds.

Hybrid funds.

Debt funds.

This spread reduces risk. It gives smoothness. It supports long-term income.

Avoid using too many funds. Keep it simple. A small number of quality funds is better.

» How your 4.8 percent looks in practice
A 4.8 percent withdrawal rate is comfortable for a 15-year horizon. If you follow discipline, your money will not face heavy pressure. If your portfolio grows at a steady pace, your principal will not erode fast. Even if growth shifts between years, the mixed structure will protect you.

Your plan is workable. It is sensible. It is future-friendly.

» Mistakes to avoid
Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

Do not chase high-return funds.

Do not raise SWP sharply in one year.

Do not keep too much money in equity.

Do not stop reviews.

Do not shift funds often without reason.

Do not look at direct plans if you prefer guidance.

These mistakes can disturb your portfolio health. Your SWP may suffer.

» Why not use direct funds if you need support
Direct plans give lower cost. But they give no guidance. Retired investors often need guidance. They need reviews. They need discipline. A regular plan through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill gives support. It prevents panic reactions. This support is valuable in low market years.

» Healthy mindset for SWP
Try to see your SWP as a long journey. It needs calm mind. It needs steady steps. It needs slow corrections. It needs patience. If you stay steady, your SWP will stay healthy. You will enjoy peace.

» Practical steps you can start now
You may start with these steps:

Set clear needs for each year.

Fix a proper asset split.

Create a cushion fund for two years.

Start SWP from a low-risk fund or hybrid fund.

Keep equity for growth.

Add small hikes in SWP every few years.

This system supports long-term income.

» How your plan supports a joyful retired life
Your plan helps you live with comfort. It gives predictable cash flow. It gives you freedom from worry. It gives you clarity. You can focus on health, family, and peace. You do not need to watch markets each day.

Your retirement life becomes balanced.

» Final Insights
Your idea of taking Rs 40000 per month from a Rs 1 crore portfolio at 4.8 percent is workable. It fits well for a 15-year horizon. It supports your income. It protects your money if you set a balanced mix. You must follow steady reviews. You must keep a small cushion. You must avoid risky moves.

With these practices, your SWP plan can stay healthy for many years. Your future can stay peaceful and steady. You have already taken the right first step. Your clarity gives your plan strong power.

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

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

...Read more

Dr Nagarajan J S K

Dr Nagarajan J S K   |2567 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 17, 2025Hindi
Career
Is it worthwhile being an mbbs only doctor in India or is pg necessary as somebody who cannot toil 24-36 hours (as is the case with hospital duties) and is not well adequate for working under somebody and then do you still have to study after mbbs to level up or will you be contented with just mbbs. Pls don't answer objectively i really need to see the real picture
Ans: Hi Dr.
Recently, I've seen many different comments on social media suggesting that finding a job after completing an MBBS is very difficult, with some graduates even working as delivery boys.

I believe MBBS is one of the few courses that allows for immediate entrepreneurship after graduation, while other fields often require additional support to start a business. Many medical shop owners are willing to provide a small space for consultations, which is not typically an option for graduates in other disciplines.

If you are financially constrained, it may be wise to stop after completing your MBBS degree for the time being. However, pursuing a postgraduate degree (PG) significantly increases your opportunities, including potential roles in the pharmaceutical industry. Without a PG, your options may be limited. It's akin to the difference between a normal grocery store and a supermarket: completing a PG can lead to positions in corporate medical hospitals.

Initially, you might consider working at a smaller practice or in the government sector before pursuing higher education. While having an MBBS degree allows you to offer consultations, having a PG provides you with more credibility and knowledge. Understand your strengths and weaknesses, and don’t worry about others—proceed based on your own abilities and circumstances.
BEST WISHES.

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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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