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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10843 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
Avijit Question by Avijit on Mar 02, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Sir, i have been investing in Large cap direct MF , shall i close them and move to largege cap index fund ? Same startegy for mid , small and mirco cap ?

Ans: Transitioning from actively managed mutual funds to index funds requires careful consideration of your investment objectives, risk tolerance, and market dynamics.

While index funds offer lower expense ratios and passive management, they may not always outperform actively managed funds, especially during market fluctuations or when specific sectors outperform the broader market.

Here's a breakdown of factors to consider:

Large Cap Funds: If your large-cap direct mutual funds have consistently underperformed their benchmark indices, or if you prefer a more passive approach with lower costs, transitioning to large-cap index funds could be an option. However, ensure you understand the implications of switching, including potential tax consequences and performance variations.
Mid, Small, and Micro Cap Funds: These segments of the market often require active management to identify promising opportunities and manage risks effectively. While index funds may provide broad exposure, actively managed funds can capitalize on market inefficiencies and deliver potentially higher returns. Evaluate the track record of your existing funds and consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner to determine the best approach based on your investment goals and risk profile.
When transitioning between funds, consider the following:

Tax Implications: Exiting existing investments may trigger capital gains tax liabilities. Assess the tax implications of switching funds and evaluate whether the potential benefits outweigh the costs.
Performance Comparison: Compare the historical performance of your current funds with relevant index benchmarks. Evaluate factors such as consistency, risk-adjusted returns, and fund manager expertise before making a decision.
Cost Analysis: Consider the impact of expense ratios and transaction costs on your investment returns. While index funds typically have lower costs, ensure that the benefits justify any potential performance trade-offs.
Diversification: Review your overall portfolio diversification and ensure that any changes align with your asset allocation strategy and long-term financial goals.
Ultimately, the decision to switch from actively managed funds to index funds should be based on a thorough assessment of your individual circumstances and investment objectives. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable insights and personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs.

there are some advantages to consider direct funds, and the cost savings can be significant in the long run. However, there are some potential benefits to using a regular MFD:

Advantages of Investing Through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD):

Personalized Advice: MFDs can be helpful for beginners or those who lack investment knowledge. They can assess your risk tolerance, financial goals, and investment horizon to recommend suitable mutual funds. This personalized guidance can be valuable, especially if you're new to investing.
Convenience: MFDs handle all the paperwork and transactions on your behalf, saving you time and effort. They can help with account setup, SIP registrations, and managing your portfolio across different funds.
Investor Support: MFDs can be a point of contact for any questions or concerns you may have about your investments. They can provide ongoing support and guidance throughout your investment journey.


Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Mar 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 09, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I have been investing in mid-cap MFs. Shall I close them and move to index funds as market looks overheated? Same startegy for small and mirco-cap MFs?
Ans: Deciding whether to switch from mid-cap mutual funds (MFs) to index funds depends on several factors, and the current market condition (overheated or not) is just one piece of the puzzle. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Mid-Cap vs Index Funds:

• Risk: Mid-cap funds generally involve higher risk than index funds. Mid-cap companies are more volatile, so the fund's value can fluctuate more significantly. Index funds, by nature, tend to mirror the market, offering a more stable ride.
• Return Potential: Historically, mid-cap funds have offered the potential for higher returns than index funds. However, this is not guaranteed, and past performance doesn't necessarily predict future results.
• Management: Mid-cap funds are actively managed, meaning a fund manager tries to pick stocks that will outperform the market. Index funds are passively managed, simply tracking a specific market index.

Current Market Conditions:

Overheated Market: If you believe the market is overheated, there could be some logic in moving to a less volatile option like an index fund. However, trying to time the market can be difficult, and you risk missing out on potential gains if the market continues to rise.

Other Factors to Consider:

• Investment Timeframe: If you have a long-term investment horizon (over 5 years), you may be able to stomach the volatility of mid-cap funds. However, if you need your money in the short term, index funds might be a safer option.
• Risk Tolerance: How comfortable are you with potential losses? If you can't handle large swings in your portfolio value, index funds might be a better fit.
• Your Investment Goals: What are you hoping to achieve with your investments?

Small and Micro-Cap MFs:

The same logic applies to small and micro-cap MFs. They generally involve even higher risk than mid-cap funds but also have the potential for even higher returns. Carefully consider your risk tolerance and investment goals before investing in them.

Here are some recommendations:

• Do your research: Learn more about mid-cap vs index funds and understand the risks involved in each.
• Consult a financial advisor: A professional advisor can help you assess your individual situation and make informed investment decisions.
• Consider a diversified portfolio: You don't have to choose between all mid-cap or all index funds. You can have a mix of both in your portfolio to balance risk and reward.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to switch from mid-cap MFs to index funds is up to you. By considering all the factors involved, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your investment goals and risk tolerance.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10843 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 20, 2025

Listen
Money
Hello, I have 2 MF's namely HDFC Top 100 Large Cap and Nippon Large Cap. One of my friends suggested that both of them are the same and that Nippon is better. He suggested that I opt out of HDFC and instead invest in small cap like Quant etc. please advice
Ans: Investing in two large-cap funds can lead to redundancy. Both funds may have overlapping stocks. Diversifying into different categories can enhance returns. Here’s a detailed assessment:

Large-Cap Funds: Key Considerations
Portfolio Overlap
Large-cap funds often invest in similar top companies. This reduces diversification.

Performance Consistency
Large-cap funds offer stability but may lag in delivering high returns.

Expense Ratio Impact
A higher expense ratio can lower your long-term returns.

Tax Efficiency
Capital gains on equity funds above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Insights on HDFC Top 100 and Nippon Large-Cap
HDFC Top 100
This fund focuses on established blue-chip companies. It provides stable, long-term growth.

Nippon Large-Cap
This fund also invests in top market leaders. It may have a slightly aggressive approach.

Comparative Analysis
Both funds aim for similar objectives, leading to potential redundancy. Choosing one is more effective.

Why Diversify Beyond Large-Cap Funds?
Small-Cap Funds
These offer higher growth potential but come with higher risk.

Flexi-Cap Funds
These provide flexibility to invest across large, mid, and small-cap stocks.

Sectoral Funds
These are ideal for those confident in specific industry performance.

Should You Switch From HDFC to Small-Cap?
Switching depends on your goals and risk appetite:

For Moderate Risk
Retain one large-cap fund and invest in a flexi-cap fund.

For High Growth
Consider allocating funds to small-cap or mid-cap funds.

Importance of Avoiding Direct Funds
Professional Monitoring
Certified Financial Planners actively manage regular plans.

Cost-Benefit Analysis
Direct funds save on commissions but need regular tracking by you.

Guidance Benefits
Regular plans provide guidance and periodic reviews, optimising your portfolio.

Actionable Recommendations
Retain only one large-cap fund. Choose based on lower expense ratio and consistent performance.

Diversify into small-cap or flexi-cap funds for higher growth potential.

Align your investments with your risk profile and financial goals.

Avoid relying solely on direct funds. Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner.

Final Insights
Balancing large-cap stability with small-cap growth can maximise returns. Select one large-cap fund and diversify wisely. Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10837 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Nov 13, 2025

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |360 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Nov 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 07, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir, I am 39 years PSU employee with monthly net salary of 1.10 lacs. I have a son of 9 years and daughter of 1 year. I am investing in MF through SIPs and lumpsump for last 7 years and my present MF portfolio is 50 lacs with XIRR of almost 18%. Presently I do SIP of 30000 per month. I also have housing loan and my EMI is 42000. I am provided accomodation and medical facilities from my employer. I also have accumulated 18 lacs in PF and Rs. 28 lacs in NPS. I have Term plan of 1.5 crs. I also have liquid funds of 10 lacs in FD for emergency purpose and approx 7 lacs in PPF. Since my child's major education expenses is still 7 to 8 years far for my son and 15 years for my daughter, I will continue my SIP of atleast for next 8 to 10 years without breaking my existing portfolio. Can I generate a corpus of more than 7 crs till my retirement with above funds and will it be sufficient to meet the inflation after 20 years.
Ans: Hi,

You have done and accumulated quite good at your age in different instruments with varied returns. Let us have a detailed look.

1. Emergency Fund - 10 lakhs in FD - good to go.
2. Term Plan - 1.5 crores - good to go.
3. Health Insurance - provided by employer. However, can take a separate personal insurance for yourself and family.
4. PF - 18 lakhs (continue)
5. NPS - 28 lakhs (continue)
6. PPF - 7 lakhs (can stop continuing, invest only bare minimum to keep account active. Close account upon maturity and reallocate these funds in mutual funds)
7. MF Portfolio - 50 lakhs with 30k monthly SIP
8. Home Loan EMI - 42000

Goals:
- Son's education - after 8 years
- Daughter's education - after 15 years
- Retirement - need 7 crores

You are very much on the right track. Your current financials look strong in terms of fulfiling your financial goals.

> Your current MF portfolio can be bifurcated into 2 parts
i. 40 lakhs for your retirement. This amount along with other amount from PF and NPS will finance your retirement forever (inflation adjusted). Additionally you wil lleave behind a great fortune for your kids.
ii. 10 lakhs for your kid's education. Continue your existing SIP of 30k per month and also contribute 7 lakhs from PPF account on its maturity towards this goal. For son, you will have 75 lakhs only from this investment and your daughter's education will have 1.5 crores when she requires.

This way your existing investments can take care of all your goals. Also, do increase your contibution in SIP yearly. It will help in generating a higher corpus for your family.

As your overall investments are more thann 10 lakhs in MFs, it is wise for you to connect with a professional who will assist you and make a dedicated investment plan as per your goals.
Hence, do consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who will guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile. A CFP periodically reviews your portfolio and suggest any amendments to be made, if required.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

...Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |360 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Nov 13, 2025

Money
My current age is 41 Years old and private employe in I.T sector. I have five kids of 11,8,7,5 &2 years. My elder daughter is in 7th class now. I have monthly Net salary of 1 lakhs after taxes. I am saving 20/30 thousand monthly. My assets are as follows:- I have one house worth Rs.15 lakhs, Two commercial shops worth Rs, 50 L. Having no loan in the market. Insurance Rs. 50 L term plan for me. Yearly I pay 40k. Health insurance 11 lakh for my entire family from my organisation.Yearly I pay 20k. I maintain an emergency fund 1.5 lac liquid on hand. Would like to make a total fund og 5 Cr by 2035. I have a requirement during higher education for childerns/marriage/Business for my son's and retirement at my age of 51 yrs after 10 years. How to grow my income. I would like to focus on high-growth investment to achieve my goal. But I am planning to invest monthly from my salary. More ever I may get 4lack in next month. Now the thing is how to go about 4lack. Where to invest Am confused what to do. Kindly advise further for more wealth creation. Steady plan. Wealth builds slowly but surely. Can someone help design a withdrawal/Saving strategy to meet your income needs and achieve goal. I would like comfortable retirement with a steady income. Thanks....
Ans: Hi Syed,

Let us have a detailed look below:
- Your monthly income - 1 lakhs, expenses - around 75k , and money for saving - approx. 25k per month.
- Emergency fund - 1.5 lakhs . Would suggest you to make a FD of this fund as emergency fund.
- Term and Health insurance - covered. But sum assured is less for your family. It should be increased.
- One house - 15 lakhs; 2 commercial shops - 50 lakhs.

Requirements:
- Need 5 crores by 2035 i.e. in 10 years
- Need fund for higher education and marriage of 5 children
- Retirement corpus required after 10 years

To achieve all these goals, you need to invest starting right now in aggressive mutual funds with 25-30k left with you. And you can increase your investment with the increase in your income.
Realistically, retirement after 10 years is not possible, but you can try and upgrade your skills to earn more and invest more.

You are also getting 4 lakhs next month. Invest entire amount in aggressive mutual funds. Mutual funds will give you an annual return of 14-15% very easily. This is the best way to build wealth for the goals that you mentioned.
>> Make sure to stay away from LIC policies and ULIPs and other plans which lock your money.

As you are not much aware about mutual funds and investment, you should work with a professional who will draft a plan for you.

Hence, please consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile. A CFP periodically reviews your portfolio and suggest any amendments to be made, if required.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10843 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 13, 2025

Money
Dear Sir I have invested in a 2 BHK apartment in Mumbai Malad East area near Dindoshi court. The builder is GSA Grandeur. The builder promised to handover the flat possession ready to stay in December 2004. Later due to some issues he informed that the Flat shall be ready by December 2005. Now still he is saying that Falt shall be ready by August 2006. In this regard sir please advise what action I should take against the builder. The Flat cost is 1.11 CR plus registration charges from which I have paid him 1 CR. Kindly guide whom to approach for further action. Regards
Ans: You have taken a major financial step by booking an apartment. I appreciate your initiative in seeking advice. As a Certified Financial Planner, here is a structured menu of action you can take — from validating your rights to escalating with the proper authorities. Make sure to review all your documents and decisions with a qualified property lawyer before proceeding further.

» Confirm the agreement details

Check your Agreement for Sale (or Contract) and note the promised possession date: you mention December 2004, then December 2005, and now August 2006.

Verify whether the builder (GSA Grandeur) / promoter has a registered project under MahaRERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority, Maharashtra).

See whether the project is listed on the MahaRERA website with a registration number.

Check if the builder has issued written communications about delay and extensions (emails/letters) and whether they have acknowledged the original date and the subsequent revised date.

Retain all payment receipts (you paid Rs 1 Cr out of total Rs 1.11 Cr + registration) and keep a record of when each payment was made and as per which schedule of installments.

» Understand your legal rights under the law

Under the Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) and corresponding Maharashtra rules, if a promoter delays handing over possession beyond the agreed time, you have a right to compensation or withdrawal (refund) as per Section 18 of the Act.

You may ask the builder to pay interest on the amount you have paid so far for the period of delay. The model agreement under Maharashtra RERA states that if the promoter is unable to deliver within the time-schedule, the promoter should pay interest for every month of delay.

If the builder fails to deliver within a “reasonable” extended time (or fails entirely), you can choose to withdraw and seek refund of your money, along with compensation.

If the project is not registered with RERA (even though it should have been), then you may have additional grounds for legal action under consumer law or contract law.

Please note: recent judgments highlight that the builder’s delay gives you rights; but home-loan interest you paid may not be fully refundable via consumer forum as per recent rulings.

» Immediate practical steps you should take

Write & send a formal letter (by registered post) to the builder (GSA Grandeur) stating:

You booked the 2 BHK apartment in Malad East near Dindoshi Court.

The agreed (original) possession date was December 2004 (as per the agreement) and subsequent revised dates.

You have paid Rs 1 Cr out of total Rs 1.11 Cr + registration charges.

You demand the builder to clearly state the revised firm date of handing over possession, or alternatively offer you the option to withdraw and refund the money if they cannot meet a firm date.

You seek interest on the amounts paid for the period of delay, as per model agreement and RERA provisions.

Keep all your communication in writing and copy all relevant documents: payment receipts, agreement, letters from builder, any announcements, etc.

Check whether the builder has applied for or received Occupancy Certificate (OC) or Completion Certificate for the project/phase. Without OC the handover is legally incomplete.

» Approach the regulatory and legal forums

Check on the MahaRERA website whether the project is registered and find the project registration number.

If registered, you can file a complaint with MahaRERA (Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority) under the Act. As per FAQs, you may approach them for a refund, compensation and interest for delay.

If the project is not registered or the builder is non-compliant, you may also consider filing a suit in the consumer forum or appropriate civil court/contract tribunal for breach of contract.

Before filing, consult a lawyer specialising in real estate/consumer law so that all your evidence and claims are framed properly.

» Evaluate your options: continue vs withdraw

If the builder now gives you a firm handover date (with OC, all works completed) then you may choose to continue, given that you have already invested a large sum.

However, if the builder is still giving vague dates (August 2006 or beyond) and there are no signs of progress (OC pending, works incomplete), then you should seriously consider withdrawal and refund.

In that event, you must ask for: full refund of amount paid, interest for delay period (and compensation if justified), plus possible damages for alternative accommodation/rent you may have taken.

Monitor whether the builder is proceeding with construction, obtaining approvals, and has conveyed clear timelines.

» Assessing risk & safeguarding yourself

Since you made the payment long ago and the possession is delayed significantly, there is time-value and risk involved.

Make sure your title rights are secure: the agreement must clearly state your unit, floor, parking (if any), and your payments.

Avoid making any further significant payments unless you receive a possession letter and builder gives you the keys and OC/occupancy certificate.

Check for any lien, mortgage or charge on the builder’s property which may delay transfer further.

Note that property/real estate is subject to large delays and builder insolvency risk; hence your proactive action is wise.

» Document checklist for your case

Agreement for Sale (signed by you and builder) with possession date clause.

Payment receipts/Cheque copies of your payments (1 Cr paid) and records of registration charges.

Written communications from builder about revised dates (December 2005, August 2006).

Project registration certificate on MahaRERA (if available).

Status of Occupancy Certificate / Completion Certificate for the building.

Construction status photographs, society formation records, if any.

Correspondence showing builder’s acknowledgment of delay or your demand for possession/refund.

Any rent/alternative accommodation expense you incurred due to delay (if applicable).

» Timeline of action

Immediately send the registered letter to builder demanding firm date or refund.

Within 1-2 months if builder does not respond with firm date, file complaint with MahaRERA or initiate legal action.

Keep monitoring builder’s progress; if there is substantial delay (many years beyond promised date) your case will become stronger.

Maintain all documents and remain proactive; deadlines and records matter in these matters.

» Final Insights
You have a strong basis to assert your rights. The fact that possession was promised years ago and is still delayed means you are well within your rights to demand either speedy handover or refund/compensation. Initiate formal written demand, verify builder registration under MahaRERA, maintain all records, and seek regulatory/legal redress if builder remains non-responsive. With the right approach and evidence, you can compel the builder to perform or compensate you. Your prompt action now will protect your investment and avoid further loss.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
Holistic Investment Planners
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

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

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

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

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

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

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x