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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 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
Rohit Question by Rohit on May 23, 2024Hindi
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Maam pls suggest me 5or 6 mutual fund which i can do invest long time 12 to 20 years .my capacity is 10k per months i will take 50 percent risk if i take 100 percent risk can do this same in 10 years my goal is 1 cr

Ans: It’s great to see your commitment to securing your financial future. Let’s explore how you can achieve your goal of Rs. 1 crore by investing Rs. 10,000 per month.

Understanding Your Investment Horizon and Risk Appetite
You have a long-term investment horizon of 12 to 20 years. This gives you the advantage of time, allowing your investments to grow and compound. With a willingness to take up to 50% risk, you can consider a mix of equity and hybrid funds. If you are comfortable with 100% risk, you can focus more on equity funds.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification is key to managing risk while aiming for high returns. By spreading investments across various mutual funds, you reduce the impact of poor performance in any single fund. This approach enhances the stability of your portfolio.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have professional fund managers who make strategic decisions. They aim to outperform the market by selecting high-potential stocks. This active management can provide better returns compared to passive funds, especially over long periods.

Potential Mutual Fund Categories for Your Portfolio
1. Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds invest in well-established companies with a large market capitalization. These funds are relatively stable and can provide steady returns. They are less volatile compared to mid-cap and small-cap funds, making them suitable for moderate risk tolerance.

2. Mid-Cap Funds
Mid-cap funds invest in medium-sized companies that have high growth potential. These funds are riskier than large-cap funds but can offer higher returns. For an investor with a 50% risk appetite, mid-cap funds can be a good choice.

3. Small-Cap Funds
Small-cap funds invest in smaller companies with significant growth prospects. These funds are more volatile but can provide substantial returns. If you are willing to take 100% risk, including small-cap funds in your portfolio can be beneficial.

4. Multi-Cap Funds
Multi-cap funds invest across companies of various sizes and sectors. They offer a balanced approach by combining large-cap stability with mid-cap and small-cap growth. This diversification within the fund itself reduces risk and enhances returns.

5. Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds invest in a mix of equity and debt instruments. They provide exposure to the growth potential of equities while offering the stability of debt. For investors with moderate risk tolerance, hybrid funds can be a safe yet profitable option.

Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing
Investing in mutual funds requires regular monitoring. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation. This ensures your investments remain aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Advantages of Investing Through a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you select suitable mutual funds. They provide expert advice and personalized strategies based on your financial situation. Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials ensures professional management of your investments.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds require investors to make all decisions independently. Without professional guidance, it can be challenging to choose the right funds and manage the portfolio. Regular funds, advised by a CFP, offer better management and informed decision-making.

SIPs: A Disciplined Investment Approach
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are an excellent way to invest regularly. They help inculcate a disciplined investment habit. SIPs allow you to invest small amounts consistently, reducing the impact of market volatility.

Evaluating Fund Performance
When selecting mutual funds, consider their historical performance. Look for funds with a consistent track record of outperforming their benchmarks. Evaluate the fund manager’s expertise and the fund’s expense ratio to ensure efficient management.

Importance of Patience and Long-Term Perspective
Long-term investments require patience and a steady approach. Market fluctuations are normal, but staying invested allows your money to grow. The power of compounding works best over extended periods, helping you achieve your financial goals.

Conclusion
With a disciplined investment strategy and the right mix of mutual funds, you can achieve your goal of Rs. 1 crore. Diversify your portfolio, monitor regularly, and seek professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner. This approach will help you balance risk and returns effectively, ensuring a secure financial future for you and your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

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i want to invest mutual fund for 5-6 years
Ans: Investing in mutual funds with a 5-6 year horizon is a good strategy. It allows you to balance risk and returns effectively.

Choosing the Right Mutual Funds
1. Hybrid Funds

Combine equity and debt.
Offer growth potential with lower risk.
2. Balanced Advantage Funds

Adjust equity and debt allocation based on market conditions.
Provide a balance between risk and return.
3. Equity Funds

Focus on growth through stocks.
Suitable if you can tolerate higher risk.
4. Debt Funds

Invest in fixed-income securities.
Lower risk compared to equity.
Diversification Strategy
1. Hybrid and Balanced Funds

Ideal for medium-term investments.
They provide stability and growth.
2. Diversify Across Sectors

Spread your investment across different sectors.
Helps in reducing risk.
3. Mix of Equity and Debt

Equity for growth, debt for stability.
Adjust based on market conditions and risk tolerance.
Key Considerations
1. Risk Tolerance

Assess how much risk you are willing to take.
Higher risk can lead to higher returns but also potential losses.
2. Investment Goals

Define what you want to achieve with your investment.
Align your mutual fund choice with these goals.
3. Fund Performance

Review the past performance of mutual funds.
Consider funds with a consistent track record.
4. Regular Monitoring

Keep an eye on your investments periodically.
Rebalance your portfolio if necessary.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
1. Professional Management

Fund managers make investment decisions based on research.
Potential for better returns compared to passive funds.
2. Flexibility

Actively managed funds can adjust holdings based on market conditions.
Offers a chance to capitalize on market opportunities.
3. Research and Expertise

Fund managers have access to extensive research and resources.
Can help in achieving better returns.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
1. Avoid Direct Investments

Direct funds can have higher expenses and lack the benefit of professional management.
Regular funds managed through an MFD with CFP credentials can provide better service.
2. Steer Clear of Index Funds

Index funds track market indices and may not offer significant outperformance.
Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform market indices.
Final Insights
For a 5-6 year investment horizon, hybrid and balanced advantage funds offer a balanced approach. They combine growth with stability, making them suitable for medium-term investments. Diversify your investments and choose funds with a strong track record. Actively managed funds can provide better returns and more flexibility.

Regularly review your investments to ensure they align with your goals. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can help in making informed decisions and achieving your financial objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 16, 2024

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Hai sir I am mr kashyap of aged 30 I am having 10 lakhs please suggest me a better mutual fund for better return in crores
Ans: It's important to set clear financial goals. Understand your risk tolerance before investing. As a young investor, you can take higher risks for higher returns. Aim for a diversified portfolio to balance risk and return.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds offer better potential for higher returns. Professional fund managers select stocks based on research. This can outperform index funds, which just track the market. Actively managed funds are ideal for those seeking higher returns over the long term.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification spreads risk across different assets. Invest in a mix of equity, debt, and sector funds. This reduces the impact of any single investment's poor performance.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Regular funds come with the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). CFPs provide personalized advice and regular monitoring of your investments. This ensures your portfolio remains aligned with your goals. Regular funds often perform better due to professional guidance.

Recommended Fund Types
Equity Funds: Suitable for long-term growth. Invest in large, mid, and small-cap funds.

Debt Funds: Provide stability and lower risk. Ideal for short to medium-term goals.

Sector Funds: Focus on specific sectors like technology or healthcare. High risk but high potential returns.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Consider starting a SIP with your Rs. 10 lakhs. SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly. This reduces the risk of market volatility. It's a disciplined approach to wealth creation.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio. This keeps your investments aligned with your goals. Rebalancing helps maintain the desired level of risk.

Professional Guidance
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). They can provide tailored investment strategies. Professional guidance helps you achieve your financial goals efficiently.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 25, 2024

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Hello Sir, I want to invest 5k per month in mutuals fund. Am targeting 15acs in next 16years. Can you pls suggest me good fund?
Ans: Investing Rs. 5,000 per month for 16 years to achieve Rs. 15 lakhs is a commendable goal. A systematic investment plan (SIP) in mutual funds can help achieve this. Your focus should be on selecting funds that align with your risk appetite and long-term horizon.

Understanding Your Target
Your target is Rs. 15 lakhs in 16 years.
This requires consistent returns from equity mutual funds.
Equity funds are ideal for long-term goals due to their growth potential.
Investment Strategy
Focus on Equity-Dominated Funds

Equity funds have the potential for higher long-term growth.
Diversify across large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap funds.
Actively Managed Funds Preferred

Actively managed funds outperform index funds over long durations.
A good fund manager can provide better returns than passive funds.
Avoid Direct Funds

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures professional advice.
Regular funds with guidance offer better portfolio tracking and rebalancing.
Monitor and Review Regularly

Review your investments yearly to stay aligned with your goal.
Make changes based on performance and market conditions.
Suggested Fund Categories
Large-Cap Funds

These funds provide stability and moderate growth.
They invest in well-established companies with strong performance records.
Flexi-Cap Funds

These funds invest across large, mid, and small-cap companies.
They offer flexibility and diversification.
Mid-Cap Funds

Mid-cap funds offer higher growth potential but come with moderate risk.
Suitable for long-term wealth creation.
Hybrid Funds

These funds balance equity and debt exposure.
They provide moderate risk with consistent returns.
Tax Considerations
Equity Fund Taxation

Long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term capital gains are taxed at 20%.
Tax-Efficient Withdrawals

Plan withdrawals strategically to minimise tax liability.
Hold funds for the long term to benefit from favourable tax rates.
Other Recommendations
Build an Emergency Fund

Set aside at least six months’ expenses in a liquid fund.
This provides financial security during emergencies.
Stay Invested for the Entire Duration

Equity investments need time to grow and overcome volatility.
Avoid premature withdrawals to maximise returns.
Disciplined Investing

Continue SIPs without interruption to achieve your goal.
Market fluctuations should not deter your commitment.
Final Insights
With disciplined investing and the right fund selection, achieving Rs. 15 lakhs in 16 years is possible. Focus on equity funds for long-term growth and consult a Certified Financial Planner for professional guidance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP
Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
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Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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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