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Omkeshwar

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on May 13, 2022

Mutual Fund Expert... more
Devarajan Question by Devarajan on May 13, 2022Hindi
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Money

My monthly sip 5000 rs from July (I am new). Please tell me am I doing the right investment. I am 51 and I do have income from building (25000) and bank FD.

Parag parekh flexi

Pgim flexi cap

Axis small cap

Icici prudential tech

Edelweiss balanced advantage fund

Tata digital fund

Icici Nasdaq 100 index fund

iifl focused fund(2000)

All growth direct.

Ans: All are decent funds, please continue

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  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I am investing SIP Rs41000 per month.I am not having a proper guidance on this investments.Please go thru & give your suggestion to improve on this investments Investments: GFGPG - HDFC Large and Mid Cap Fund - Regular Plan - Growth EDWRG - ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund - Growth 3349 - ICICI Prudential Bharat Consumption Fund Growth EDWRG - ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund - Growth 1191 - ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund - Growth 3251 - ICICI Prudential India Opportunities Fund Growth 121 - ICICI Prudential Multicap Fund - Growth 71 - ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Growth 3443 - ICICI Prudential Flexicap Fund Growth 8019 - ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Direct Plan - Growth 8034 - ICICI Prudential Smallcap Fund - Direct Plan - Growth 1191 - ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund - Growth SCAG - NIPPON INDIA SMALL CAP FUND - DIRECT GROWTH PLAN GROWTH OPTION OFDG - Quant Mid Cap Fund - Growth INF966L01887 51010091­ 075/0 DIRECT 103.033 139.1977 14,000.00 14,341.96 0 .5 0 DIFGZ - Tata Digital India Fund Direct Plan Growth
Ans: investing Rs. 41,000 monthly is a great sign of discipline! It seems you're investing in several mutual funds, but let's see how we can optimize your portfolio.

Current Portfolio Analysis:

Number of Funds: Having 11 funds might be too many to manage effectively. It can be difficult to track performance and make adjustments.

Overlap: There might be overlap between some funds in terms of the stocks they invest in. This reduces diversification benefits.

Investment Strategy: Your portfolio has a mix of fund categories (Large & Mid Cap, Balanced Advantage, Sectoral, etc.). It's good, but we can improve it for your goals.

Here's why I can't give specific advice on your funds:

Performance: Past performance isn't a guarantee of future results. What did well yesterday might not do well tomorrow.

Your Goals: I don't know your investment goals (retirement, child's education, etc.) These influence the best investment choices.

Here are some suggestions to improve your portfolio:

Reduce the number of funds: Aim for 4-5 well-diversified funds across different market capitalizations (Large, Mid, and Small Cap).

Consider Asset Allocation: Decide on a strategic asset allocation based on your risk tolerance and goals. This helps you pick the right mix of asset classes (equity, debt).

Actively Managed Funds: Actively managed funds, where experienced professionals make investment decisions, can potentially outperform the market. Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to help you choose these funds.

Benefits of a Regular Plan with a CFP:

Guidance: A CFP can analyze your financial situation and recommend a suitable investment strategy.

Portfolio Monitoring: They can help you track your investments and make adjustments as needed.

Goal Planning: They can help you set realistic financial goals and choose investments to achieve them.

Regular plans with a CFP might have slightly higher fees than direct plans, but the guidance can be valuable, especially for new investors.

Here are some additional thoughts:

Review Regularly: Meet with your CFP periodically to review your portfolio and adjust it as your life and goals evolve.

Stay Invested: Don't panic and redeem your investments during market downturns. A long-term view is important for building wealth.

By streamlining your portfolio, seeking professional help, and staying invested, you can increase your chances of achieving your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hello Sir I am 45 year old and I have been investing Rs.1000/- as SIP in following stock - 1 Aditya Birla Sun Life Small Cap Fund 2 Axis Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan – Growth 3 Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Regular Plan – GROWTH 4 HDFC Large and Mid Cap Fund - Regular Growth Plan 5 ICICI Prudential Flexicap Fund – Growth 6 Nippon India ELSS Tax Saver Fund-Growth And I also have invested Rs.50,000/- in liquiloans I just want to know is my investment is good or do I need to make more investment or any changes in my invest ment Sir pls do reply Thanks & Regard
Ans: Congratulations on taking proactive steps towards securing your financial future at the age of 45! Your commitment to investing is admirable and sets a solid foundation for wealth accumulation.

Understanding Your Portfolio:

You've chosen a diversified portfolio with investments across various mutual funds, including small-cap, flexi-cap, large and mid-cap, and ELSS tax saver funds. Additionally, your investment in Liquiloans adds an alternative asset class to your portfolio.

Assessing the Investment Mix:

Your portfolio reflects a well-rounded approach, with exposure to different market segments and investment styles. Small-cap funds offer growth potential, while flexi-cap and large and mid-cap funds provide stability and diversification.

Evaluating Investment Choices:

Each fund you've selected has its unique investment objective and risk profile. Aditya Birla Sun Life Small Cap Fund and Canara Robeco Emerging Equities focus on small and emerging companies, potentially offering high returns but also higher volatility.

Axis Flexi Cap Fund, HDFC Large and Mid Cap Fund, and ICICI Prudential Flexicap Fund offer flexibility in asset allocation, blending exposure across market caps. Nippon India ELSS Tax Saver Fund provides tax benefits along with long-term wealth accumulation.

Analyzing Additional Investment:

Your decision to invest in Liquiloans introduces an element of diversification beyond traditional mutual funds. However, peer-to-peer lending platforms like Liquiloans carry inherent risks, including credit and default risk, which should be carefully considered.

Recommendation for Consideration:

Given your age and investment horizon, your portfolio seems appropriately diversified. However, it's crucial to regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 15, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 28 year old from mumbai. I have invested around 8 lakhs into 4 mutual fund uti nifty next 50 1.45 lakh, motilal ostwal midcap fund 3.17 lakhs, parag parekh 2 lakhs and axis small cap 1.2 lakhs , i have invested ppf around 1 lakhs. I have a salary of rs 60k and i invest around 40k monthy sip am i in a right track?
Ans: – At 28, you are far ahead of many peers.
– Rs.8 lakh invested already shows responsibility.
– Rs.40,000 SIP from Rs.60,000 salary is excellent discipline.
– PPF addition adds stability to long-term savings.
– Your journey so far is inspiring.

» Evaluating your mutual fund mix
– You have exposure to next 50, mid-cap, flexi-cap, and small-cap.
– Mid-cap and small-cap funds carry higher volatility.
– Over long-term they may deliver high returns.
– But too much allocation here increases risk.
– Flexi-cap balances growth and stability better.
– Your mix lacks large-cap or multi-cap base.

» Disadvantages of index-based funds
– Nifty Next 50 fund is index-based.
– Index funds cannot avoid poor companies in the index.
– They fall fully during market corrections.
– No flexibility to move into better sectors.
– Actively managed funds bring sharper strategies.
– Professional managers can reduce risk in downturns.

» Benefits of actively managed funds
– Active funds give scope for higher alpha.
– Managers study companies, sectors, and economy carefully.
– They can reduce weight in risky sectors.
– Flexibility helps in long-term compounding.
– Actively managed portfolio is safer for young investors.
– Better risk-adjusted growth than index strategies.

» Role of PPF in your portfolio
– PPF gives stable, tax-free returns.
– It works as safe component of your wealth.
– Liquidity is limited due to long lock-in.
– Good to keep for retirement purposes.
– Avoid putting too much here due to low returns.
– Equity still should remain your main wealth creator.

» Importance of SIP discipline
– Rs.40,000 SIP monthly is powerful at your age.
– Consistency for 15–20 years builds massive wealth.
– Market ups and downs don’t matter with SIP.
– Rupee cost averaging reduces volatility impact.
– SIP growth can match your rising income.
– Always try to increase SIP with salary hikes.

» Risk management at this stage
– You are young, so equity focus is fine.
– But balance between large, mid, and small-cap is needed.
– Overexposure to small and mid-cap increases risk.
– Consider rebalancing into diversified equity funds.
– Aim for mix of growth and safety.
– Long-term wealth is about stability, not chasing extremes.

» Insurance and protection aspects
– You didn’t mention insurance cover.
– Term insurance is essential for dependents’ safety.
– Health insurance protects wealth from medical costs.
– Insurance ensures your investments stay untouched.
– Secure base before building bigger wealth.
– Don’t mix insurance with investments.

» Emergency fund importance
– You should maintain 6–12 months’ expenses in liquid form.
– Emergency fund avoids panic during crisis.
– Keep it in savings, FD, or liquid fund.
– Don’t rely only on mutual funds for emergencies.
– Easy access fund gives peace of mind.
– Build it gradually if not done already.

» Taxation aspects of mutual fund growth
– Equity mutual fund redemptions face new tax rules.
– LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG is taxed at 20%.
– Debt fund gains taxed as per your income slab.
– Tax planning while redeeming improves net returns.
– CFP guidance ensures maximum tax efficiency.

» Importance of professional guidance
– Choosing funds is not just about returns.
– Asset allocation and review matter equally.
– Certified Financial Planner ensures right diversification.
– Mistakes in direct funds may harm wealth creation.
– Regular funds through CFP offer support and monitoring.
– This adds discipline and reduces emotional decisions.

» Goal-based investing
– You must link investments to goals clearly.
– Retirement, home, marriage, travel all need planning.
– Separate investments for each goal give clarity.
– Without goals, investments may lack direction.
– CFP can map funds to each goal.
– This makes your journey structured and stress-free.

» Future wealth potential
– At 28, you have 30+ years ahead.
– With Rs.40,000 SIP, corpus grows exponentially.
– Increasing SIP yearly multiplies wealth further.
– Equity compounding is very powerful with time.
– By mid-40s, financial independence is possible.
– Discipline and patience are your biggest assets.

» Emotional aspects of investing
– Markets will test your patience often.
– Don’t panic in corrections or crashes.
– Wealth is built by staying invested.
– Short-term fear should not break discipline.
– Review yearly, not daily or monthly.
– Long-term vision is your strength.

» Building financial independence
– You are already saving more than half your income.
– This accelerates your financial freedom.
– With consistent growth, retirement could be early.
– Extra savings give more life choices.
– Slowing down career becomes easier with strong corpus.
– Investments today buy you tomorrow’s freedom.

» Legacy planning for the future
– Though young, think about asset nominations.
– Keep family informed about investments.
– Later, prepare a Will for clarity.
– Legacy planning ensures smooth transfer.
– Wealth continuity matters for dependents.
– Early habits make future easier.

» Finally
– At 28, you are on an excellent track.
– Rs.8 lakh corpus plus Rs.40,000 SIP is powerful.
– Avoid index funds, prefer actively managed diversified funds.
– Reduce exposure to sectoral and small-cap risks.
– Keep SIP discipline and step up yearly.
– Secure yourself with insurance and emergency fund.
– Align investments to goals with CFP guidance.
– With patience, your future wealth is assured.

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  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1840 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...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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