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Ulhas

Ulhas Joshi  |279 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Fund Expert - Answered on Jun 12, 2023

With over 16 years of experience in the mutual fund industry, Ulhas Joshi has helped numerous clients choose the right funds and create wealth.
Prior to joining RankMF as CEO, he was vice president (sales) at IDBI Asset Management Ltd.
Joshi holds an MBA in marketing from Barkatullah University, Bhopal.... more
narendra Question by narendra on Jun 06, 2023Hindi
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I am investing in the following funds please guide whether i can continue these funds ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund Growth 4250 Quant Small Cap Fund Growth 5000 Axis Midcap Fund Growth 2000) Small Cap Fund Growth 7000) ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund Growth 5000 PGIM India Midcap opportunties direct Growt| 5000 Quant Midcap Fund Growth 5000 Quant Large & Midcap Fund Direct Growth. 5000

Ans: Hello Narendra and thanks for writing to me. The funds you invest in are good funds and you can continue to invest in them.
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  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi sir ,please advise me iam having axis blue chip fund(G), ICICI Pru Value discovery fund(G),Mirae Asset Large cap (g),Motilal Osawal Nifty bank index fund (G),Quant active fund (G), SBI flexi cap fund , can i continue above funds ,please advise me
Ans: Evaluating Your Mutual Fund Portfolio for Optimal Performance

Your existing portfolio comprises a mix of equity and index funds, reflecting a diversified approach to investment. Let's assess each fund's performance and suitability to determine whether to continue or make any adjustments.

Analyzing Your Current Holdings

Axis Blue Chip Fund, ICICI Pru Value Discovery Fund, Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund, SBI Flexi Cap Fund, and Quant Active Fund offer exposure to various segments of the equity market, providing diversification benefits.

Motilal Oswal Nifty Bank Index Fund focuses on tracking the performance of the Nifty Bank Index, offering exposure to the banking sector.

Performance Evaluation

Evaluate each fund's historical performance relative to its benchmark and peer group. Assess factors such as consistency of returns, risk-adjusted performance, and fund manager expertise.

Consider the fund's investment strategy, portfolio composition, and expense ratio. Ensure alignment with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Identifying Areas for Potential Adjustment

Overlapping Holdings: Review your portfolio for any overlapping holdings or duplicate exposures across funds. Consolidate similar investments to streamline your portfolio and optimize diversification.

Underperforming Funds: Identify any funds that consistently underperform their benchmarks or peers. Consider replacing them with alternatives that offer better prospects for growth and align with your investment goals.

Asset Allocation: Maintain a balanced asset allocation across different fund categories to manage risk effectively and achieve your long-term financial goals.

Recommendations

Continue Well-Performing Funds: Retain funds that have demonstrated consistent performance, robust fundamentals, and alignment with your risk profile. These funds contribute to diversification and long-term growth potential.

Review Underperforming Funds: Evaluate underperforming funds and consider replacing them with better alternatives. Focus on funds with strong track records, experienced fund managers, and clear investment strategies.

Seek Professional Guidance: Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to review your portfolio, identify areas for improvement, and develop a personalized investment strategy. Professional guidance can help optimize your portfolio and maximize returns over time.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

Money
Hello Sir, I have the following Mutual Funds Investments, request you to let me know if these can be continued with or need to discontinue any of them, also please let me know new good performing funds to invest in. One time investment: (1) ICICI/ India Opportunities Fund - Growth - Rs.2,50,000, (2) ICICI/ Value Discovery Fund - Growth - Rs.2,50,000, (3) ICICI / Transporation & Logistics Fund - Growth - Rs.2,00,000. SIP Monthly: (4) Axis Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan - Rs.5,000, (5) Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Regular Plan - Rs.5,000, (6) Aditya Birla SL Focused Equity Fund(G) - Rs.15,000, (7) HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund(G) - Rs.5,000, (8) ICICI Pru Bluechip Fund(G) - Rs.5,000, (9) Axis Small Cap Fund - Regular Plan - Rs.5,000, (10) ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Growth - Rs.5,000, (11) L&T Midcap Fund - HSBC Midcap Fund - Rs.5,000, (12) ICIPRU Multi-Asset Fund - Growth - Rs.5,000, (13) ICIPRU Value Discovery Fund - Growth - Rs.5,000. Thank You.
Ans: Your current mutual fund portfolio reflects a thoughtful mix of investments. Here's a detailed evaluation to help you decide whether to continue with them or make adjustments.

One-Time Investments
ICICI India Opportunities Fund - Growth

This fund focuses on capturing opportunities in various sectors. It is suitable for investors with a high-risk tolerance and long-term horizon. If you fall into this category, continue holding this fund.

ICICI Value Discovery Fund - Growth

This fund aims to discover undervalued stocks. It has a good track record but requires patience. If you can handle short-term volatility, it’s a good hold for long-term gains.

ICICI Transportation & Logistics Fund - Growth

This sectoral fund targets the transportation and logistics sector. Such funds can be volatile and are suitable only if you have high sectoral conviction. If not, consider reallocating to more diversified funds.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Monthly
Axis Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan

A flexi cap fund offers diversification across various market caps. This fund is known for its stable performance. Continue your SIP in this fund for balanced exposure.

Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Regular Plan

This fund focuses on emerging companies with growth potential. It’s a good choice for aggressive investors. If your risk appetite supports it, continue this investment.

Aditya Birla SL Focused Equity Fund(G)

Focused funds invest in a limited number of stocks, offering high growth potential but also higher risk. If you can withstand market fluctuations, this fund can be a valuable part of your portfolio.

HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund(G)

Mid-cap funds invest in medium-sized companies with high growth potential. This fund is well-regarded for its consistent performance. Continue your SIP for long-term wealth creation.

ICICI Pru Bluechip Fund(G)

Bluechip funds invest in large, well-established companies. They offer stability and moderate returns. This fund is a good choice for conservative investors seeking steady growth. Continue your investment.

Axis Small Cap Fund - Regular Plan

Small cap funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential but also higher risk. If you have a high risk tolerance and a long-term horizon, continue this SIP.

ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Growth

Technology funds can be volatile but offer high growth potential. If you believe in the long-term growth of the tech sector, continue this investment.

HSBC Midcap Fund

Midcap funds are suitable for investors looking for higher returns and willing to accept moderate risk. This fund has a good track record. Continue your SIP for potential high returns.

ICICI Pru Multi-Asset Fund - Growth

This fund invests across various asset classes, providing diversification and reducing risk. It’s a balanced choice for moderate-risk investors. Continue your investment for diversified growth.

ICICI Pru Value Discovery Fund - Growth

As mentioned earlier, this fund focuses on undervalued stocks. If you have patience and a long-term horizon, it remains a good choice.

Recommendations for New Investments
Based on the current market trends and performance, consider these high-performing funds for new investments:

Large Cap Fund

Investing in large-cap funds provides stability and consistent returns. These funds are less volatile and are a good option for conservative investors.

Mid Cap Fund

Mid-cap funds offer a balance between risk and return. They are suitable for investors looking for higher growth without the high volatility of small caps.

Balanced Advantage Fund

These funds dynamically allocate assets between equity and debt, based on market conditions. They offer stability and moderate growth, suitable for conservative to moderate investors.

International Equity Fund

Investing in international equity funds can provide geographical diversification and hedge against domestic market volatility.

Conclusion
Your current portfolio is well-diversified and has a mix of sectors and market caps. Most of your investments are performing well and align with long-term growth strategies. By adding a few new high-performing funds, you can enhance your portfolio’s performance and diversification.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
I am investing in the following funds please guide whether i can continue these funds HDFC Retirement Saving Fund 8000 ( One Time ). HDFC Manufacturing Fund 10000 ( One Time ). HDFC Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan - Growth 2000 monthly. HDFC Multi Cap Fund Regular - Growth 1500 monthly. HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund - Regular Plan - Growth 1500 monthly.
Ans: Evaluating Your Investment Portfolio
You have chosen a range of mutual funds, with a mix of lump-sum and SIP investments. This shows your intent to diversify and grow your wealth over time.

Your portfolio comprises funds focused on retirement, manufacturing, flexi-cap, multi-cap, and value investing. Each of these funds has a specific investment style and risk profile.

It's crucial to assess whether these funds align with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Let’s analyse each of these investments.

HDFC Retirement Saving Fund (One-Time Investment: Rs. 8,000)
The HDFC Retirement Saving Fund is designed for long-term investment. It aims to build a retirement corpus over time.

Typically, retirement funds come with a lock-in period. They also tend to invest in a mix of equity and debt to manage risk.

This fund could be a good choice if you have a long-term horizon and are specifically saving for retirement.

However, the one-time investment might not generate significant returns on its own. You may consider adding regular contributions to this fund or similar ones to build a more substantial retirement corpus.

HDFC Manufacturing Fund (One-Time Investment: Rs. 10,000)
The HDFC Manufacturing Fund focuses on investments in the manufacturing sector. This sector can be cyclical and may experience periods of high volatility.

Investing in sector-specific funds can yield high returns when the sector performs well. However, they also carry higher risks due to their concentrated nature.

Since this is a one-time investment, it may not significantly impact your overall portfolio unless the sector performs exceptionally well.

You should regularly review the performance of this fund and consider whether to stay invested based on the manufacturing sector's outlook.

HDFC Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan - Growth (Monthly SIP: Rs. 2,000)
The HDFC Flexi Cap Fund is a diversified equity fund. It invests across market capitalizations—large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap.

Flexi-cap funds offer flexibility to fund managers. They can allocate investments based on market conditions.

This flexibility can lead to better risk management and potentially higher returns over time.

Given its diversified nature, this fund could be a stable long-term investment. Continuing with this SIP seems like a sound decision, especially if you have a moderate to high risk appetite.

HDFC Multi Cap Fund Regular - Growth (Monthly SIP: Rs. 1,500)
The HDFC Multi Cap Fund invests in stocks across different market capitalizations. This provides a balanced exposure to various segments of the market.

Multi-cap funds aim to balance growth and stability. They do this by investing in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks.

This fund could complement your Flexi Cap investment. It adds more diversity and spreads risk across various sectors and market caps.

Continuing with this SIP is advisable. It offers a good mix of growth potential and risk management.

HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund - Regular Plan - Growth (Monthly SIP: Rs. 1,500)
The HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund follows a value investment strategy. It seeks out undervalued stocks with strong potential for future growth.

Value funds can perform well in different market conditions, especially when the market corrects itself. However, they may underperform during bull markets.

This fund adds another layer of diversification to your portfolio. It focuses on a different investment strategy compared to the other funds.

Continuing this SIP could be beneficial. It provides exposure to value stocks that may not be present in your other investments.

Assessing Portfolio Overlap and Diversification
One key consideration in your portfolio is the potential overlap between the funds. Overlap occurs when multiple funds invest in the same stocks or sectors.

While you have chosen funds with different strategies, it's important to check if they hold similar stocks. Too much overlap can reduce diversification and increase risk.

Regularly reviewing your portfolio for overlap and adjusting as necessary can help maintain a balanced and diversified investment strategy.

Risk Management and Asset Allocation
Your portfolio seems equity-heavy, which could be suitable if you have a long-term horizon and a high-risk tolerance.

However, you may want to consider your overall asset allocation. Ensure that it aligns with your risk appetite and financial goals.

Diversifying across asset classes, like adding some debt or hybrid funds, could provide stability. It would help balance the risks associated with an all-equity portfolio.

Performance Monitoring and Review
Regularly monitor the performance of each fund in your portfolio. Compare their performance against their benchmarks and peers.

If any fund consistently underperforms or no longer aligns with your goals, consider replacing it with a better-performing option.

Reviewing your portfolio at least once a year with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is advisable. This ensures that your investments remain on track to meet your financial objectives.

Importance of Staying Invested
Market volatility can be unsettling, but it's essential to stay invested, especially in equity funds. Equity investments typically perform well over the long term despite short-term fluctuations.

Avoid the temptation to exit during market downturns. Doing so could lock in losses and miss potential recovery gains.

Patience and a long-term perspective are key to achieving significant growth in your investments.

Benefits of Regular Funds Through MFDs with CFP Credential
Investing in regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) who has a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential can provide valuable advice and guidance.

Regular funds come with professional support, regular portfolio reviews, and personalized advice. This can help you make informed decisions and keep your investments aligned with your goals.

While direct funds may seem cheaper, the value of expert guidance in regular funds can outweigh the cost difference. It ensures that your investments are well-managed and suited to your needs.

Final Insights
Your current investments show a thoughtful approach to diversification and long-term growth. You’ve chosen funds that offer different strategies and exposure to various sectors and market caps.

Continue with your SIPs, but keep an eye on fund performance and portfolio overlap. Regular reviews and adjustments can help you maintain a balanced and diversified portfolio.

Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to fine-tune your strategy. They can help ensure that your investments align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Remember, staying invested for the long term and regularly monitoring your portfolio are key to building substantial wealth over time.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 21, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, I follow your articles regularly and your detailed assessment is really awesome.I am 47yrs Male with wife, 20&18 years kids, elder one is in B.Tech and younger one is 12th. My wife is a home maker. Coming to financials. I have 4 houses including the one residing worth 10cr(total) and getting rental income of 70k per month, invested in stocks and MFs worth 60L, have foreign stocks of worth 1.7cr, accumulated pf around 1.3cr. I have farm lands worth 5cr. Have 1.2cr loan and salary of ~4L (net). current sips in equity 70k/month, have 5Cr term plan, health insurance for family 50L. How do I plan my retirement at 52-53years assuming 80 years life expectancy. Don't want to depend on kids and need regular income ~3-4L per month.
Ans: Asset Evaluation
Real Estate:
You own four houses worth Rs 10 crore, generating Rs 70,000 monthly rental income. This is a solid base for passive income. However, real estate can have fluctuating maintenance costs, tenant issues, and varying rental yields over time.

Stocks and Mutual Funds:
Your Rs 60 lakh investment in stocks and mutual funds is a commendable step. Active mutual funds offer professional fund management and can outperform index funds over time.

Foreign Stocks:
Your Rs 1.7 crore portfolio in foreign stocks adds geographical diversification. Monitor currency exchange fluctuations and global market trends.

Provident Fund (PF):
With Rs 1.3 crore in PF, this is a reliable retirement corpus. The fund provides fixed returns and tax benefits, adding stability.

Farm Lands:
Farm lands worth Rs 5 crore are an illiquid but valuable asset. They might not generate consistent income unless leased or developed.

Loans:
A loan liability of Rs 1.2 crore needs prioritised repayment. Focus on loans with higher interest rates first.

Insurance Coverage:
A Rs 5 crore term plan is robust. Your Rs 50 lakh health insurance is sufficient for unexpected medical emergencies.

Retirement Goals
You need Rs 3–4 lakh monthly for 27–28 years post-retirement.
The portfolio must generate steady, inflation-adjusted returns.
Action Plan for Retirement
Debt Management
Prepay High-Interest Loans:
Use a portion of your surplus income to prepay loans. This reduces interest outflow and increases your cash flow.

Avoid New Loans:
Focus on reducing existing liabilities instead of taking on new ones.

Portfolio Restructuring
Real Estate:
Retain essential properties. Sell underperforming or non-essential properties to reduce concentration in real estate. Invest proceeds in mutual funds or debt instruments for diversification.

Mutual Funds (MFs):
Increase SIPs in actively managed funds. They outperform direct funds due to guidance from Certified Financial Planners and MFDs. Regular funds offer better tracking and professional assistance.

Stocks:
Monitor direct equity investments closely. Consider reallocating underperforming stocks to mutual funds for better management.

Debt Instruments:
Invest in high-quality debt funds or fixed-income securities for stability. These instruments balance equity volatility and ensure steady returns.

SIP Strategy
Increase SIPs from Rs 70,000 to Rs 1 lakh/month.
Allocate 70% to equity funds for long-term growth.
Invest 30% in debt funds for stability and liquidity.
Emergency Fund
Maintain a 12-month expense reserve in liquid funds or fixed deposits.
This covers unexpected expenses without disturbing investments.
Income During Retirement
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Use SWPs in mutual funds to generate regular income.
Withdraw 6–8% annually from your mutual fund portfolio for a steady income stream.
Rental Income Optimisation
Review property rents regularly.
Invest part of rental income in equity or debt mutual funds for compounding.
Dividend Stocks
Retain high-dividend-yield stocks for regular income.
Reinvest surplus dividends for long-term growth.
Tax Efficiency
Equity Funds Taxation:
Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt Funds Taxation:
Both short- and long-term gains are taxed per your income slab.

Real Estate Capital Gains:
Use exemptions under Sections 54 or 54F to save tax on property sales.

Inflation Protection
Allocate 60–70% of your portfolio to equity investments.

Equity provides inflation-adjusted returns over time.

Debt funds and fixed instruments safeguard against equity market volatility.

Estate Planning
Draft a will to allocate assets transparently among family members.
Use nomination and joint ownership to avoid legal complications.
Consider a family trust for farm lands to avoid disputes.
Periodic Review
Review your financial plan every six months.
Adjust investments based on market conditions, goals, and needs.
Consult a Certified Financial Planner regularly for updates.
Finally
A well-diversified portfolio ensures financial independence post-retirement. Focus on debt repayment, portfolio balance, and tax-efficient withdrawals. Your assets can comfortably generate Rs 3–4 lakh monthly income, adjusted for inflation.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |444 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

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Relationship
I am the eldest sibling in our families and aged 51. Normally, whenever anyone in the family has a problem - financial, mental, psychological, issue with people or anything else, they come up to discuss with me and share. Well, many would say I am lucky as people look up to me when they are in any kind of a problem. But that is not the case. Sadly no one is around with whom I can discuss or even think to share my issues, my problems. I do not have any friends. Sadly, yes, that is a fact and at my age, I dont expect that here we have a culture where we can get to making friends, at least the kind of friends with whom you can confide, share your feelings, problems. I tried and failed. Maybe because I am introvert or maybe I am too cautious. To make it more complicated, I dont work in the regular kind of job. I am a lone person who works as a freelance from home. This limits my outreach when it comes to interacting with real people. I have clients, business contacts, but I cannot get personal with them. It will never be a good choice. My wife is busy with her job + we do not have any relation beyond the daily matters related to household and it has been more than 10 years now that we live this way. Tried to sort out things with her but she just does not have time and interest (after all who wants to add on to tensions, stress). My daughter is after all my daughter - I cannot share these with her, and definitely at 10 she is too young to be one to discuss such stuff. I am not sure how far this issue can be fixed but I am hopeful to find some path here.
Ans: Dear Kevin,
Starting small can be helpful. Consider connecting with people through shared interests or hobbies, either online or in person, where the pressure to immediately open up is minimal. Online communities, local meetups, or volunteer activities can create low-stakes opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. The goal isn’t to instantly find someone to confide in but to slowly build a sense of belonging and companionship.

Your relationship with your wife appears to be another significant source of emotional distance. While her lack of interest in deep conversations may seem like a barrier, it’s worth exploring other ways to reconnect—perhaps by spending time together in shared activities or revisiting moments that once brought you closer. Sometimes, relationships stuck in routines benefit from new experiences or even professional counseling to navigate the underlying dynamics.

Regarding your daughter, while it’s clear she cannot shoulder your emotional burdens, she can still be a source of joy and connection. Investing time in activities with her can provide a sense of fulfillment and grounding that counters loneliness.

Above all, remember that reaching out for professional support, such as therapy, is not a sign of weakness but an act of self-care. A therapist can provide a safe space to express your feelings and help you develop strategies to foster deeper connections and manage emotional isolation.

You deserve to feel supported and connected, and even if the journey to finding that seems long, every step you take toward opening up or seeking out others is a move toward a more fulfilling and less lonely existence.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

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Top4 sips with 15k amount suggest me
Ans: Here’s an updated strategy for your Rs. 15,000 SIP allocation, replacing the sectoral/thematic fund with a small-cap fund for better long-term growth potential.

Suggested SIP Allocation (Rs. 15,000)
Large-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 4,000/month
Objective: Stability and steady growth by investing in India’s top 100 companies.
Why Choose: Provides consistent returns and low volatility in your portfolio.
Flexi-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 4,000/month
Objective: Diversified exposure across large, mid, and small-cap stocks.
Why Choose: Offers balanced risk and returns with flexibility during market cycles.
Mid-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 3,500/month
Objective: Tap into the growth potential of medium-sized companies.
Why Choose: Higher returns with manageable risk compared to small caps.
Small-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 3,500/month
Objective: Focus on fast-growing small-cap companies.
Why Choose: High-growth potential over the long term, though with higher volatility.
Why Include Small-Cap Funds?
Long-Term Growth: Small-cap companies have immense potential to grow significantly over time.
Diversification: Adds exposure to an underrepresented segment, complementing large and mid-caps.
High Returns: Potential for higher returns compared to other categories, albeit with higher risk.
Key Considerations
Investment Horizon: Stay invested for at least 7-10 years to mitigate short-term volatility.
Active Fund Management: Avoid direct or index funds to leverage professional expertise.
Regular Monitoring: Review fund performance periodically with a Certified Financial Planner.
Tax Implications
Equity Funds:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh/year taxed at 12.5%.
STCG (held less than 1 year) taxed at 20%.
Final Insights
This updated allocation ensures a mix of stability, moderate risk, and high growth. With consistent SIPs and periodic reviews, you can achieve robust wealth creation over the long term. A Certified Financial Planner can assist in optimising your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 20, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Sir I come from a middle class family and my parents have dedicated everything they have into my education and upbringing. Now they plan to retire and i am finally at 30 in a stanle career where i make approximately 1,20,000 per month. I have a savings of approximately 2,00,000 that i want to invest into my parents retirement. We are NRI's and my parents will be returning back to India soon. I have 0 kmowledge about investments. As per what my friends advised, I have come to the following solutions: 1. Open an FD for both my parents seperately of 50000 Rs each for 5 years with their respective banks 2. Choose the Bajaj Allianz Smart Wealth Goal V SIP and invest approximately 24000 annually for 5 years, withdrawing it at 7 years. 3. Choose the TATA AIA Smart SIP wealth secure and invest 60000 Rs annually for 10 years, withdrawing it at the end of the same duration. Along with the above, I also plan to invest 40000 Rs annually into their Medical health insurance. Now as an NRI, and not having any knowledge about investing or TAX, could you help me with the above investments and how i would have to go about with TAX policies in India. Thank you
Ans: Your dedication to supporting your parents’ retirement is truly admirable. As an NRI with limited investment knowledge, making informed decisions will ensure financial stability for your parents. Let's assess and optimise your proposed plan while incorporating better strategies.

Evaluating the Current Plan
Fixed Deposit for Both Parents
Strengths: Fixed deposits (FDs) are safe and offer guaranteed returns.
Limitations: FD returns in India often fail to outpace inflation. Senior citizens get slightly higher interest rates.

Bajaj Allianz Smart Wealth Goal SIP
Overview: Likely a ULIP (insurance cum investment product). Combines life insurance with investments.
Limitations: ULIPs have high charges (administration and premium allocation fees). Returns are often lower compared to mutual funds.
Taxation: ULIPs are tax-efficient but lack transparency and flexibility.
TATA AIA Smart SIP Wealth Secure
Overview: Another ULIP-based product with insurance and investment components.
Limitations: Similar to the Bajaj Allianz plan, it has high costs and lower returns.
Taxation: Tax benefits under Section 80C but limited withdrawal flexibility.
Medical Health Insurance for Parents
Strengths: Investing in health insurance for your parents is a wise decision.
Suggestions: Opt for a plan with sufficient coverage, including critical illness and cashless claims.
Suggested Optimised Financial Plan
Step 1: Replace ULIPs with Equity Mutual Funds
Reason: Equity mutual funds provide higher returns compared to ULIPs.
Benefits: Actively managed funds offer better growth, diversification, and lower charges.
SIP Strategy: Start a SIP for Rs. 5,000 monthly (Rs. 60,000 annually) for 10 years.
Taxation: Equity LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%; STCG taxed at 20%.
Step 2: Invest in Debt Mutual Funds
Reason: Debt funds offer better returns than FDs and are tax-efficient.
Allocation: Invest Rs. 1 lakh in short-duration or dynamic bond funds.
Taxation: LTCG and STCG on debt funds are taxed as per the income tax slab.
Step 3: Build an Emergency Fund
Importance: Allocate Rs. 50,000 to a liquid fund or short-term FD.
Purpose: This fund will cover unexpected medical or living expenses.
Step 4: Continue Health Insurance for Parents
Annual Premium: Rs. 40,000 annually is reasonable for comprehensive coverage.
Suggestions: Include riders like critical illness and hospital cash benefits.
Step 5: Diversify Using Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)
Reason: SGBs are low-risk, inflation-proof, and provide 2.5% annual interest.
Allocation: Invest Rs. 50,000 into SGBs.
Taxation: Interest is taxable, but capital gains on redemption are tax-free.
SGBs are not available for NRIs.

Tax Implications for NRIs
Better Returns: Shift to equity and debt mutual funds for inflation-beating growth.
Tax Efficiency: Use tax-saving instruments and avoid high-tax liabilities on ULIPs.
Flexibility: Mutual funds and SGBs provide better liquidity and transparency.
Secure Future: Health insurance ensures medical expenses are not a financial burden.
Final Insights
Your proposed plan can be significantly improved with better investment choices. Focus on mutual funds, health insurance, and SGBs for long-term financial stability. Avoid ULIPs as they come with high costs and limited returns. With these steps, you can ensure a secure and comfortable retirement for your parents.

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.

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