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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 03, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Aug 31, 2025Hindi
Money

Hi sir, My name is Sowmya with age 33. I want to invest 15 k every month . For now I choose to invest parag parikh flexi direct growth 4000, motial oswal mid cap fund direct growth -3000 and nippon small cap fund-3000. Are these good to invest and can you suggest other to invest remaining amount?

Ans: You have started very well, Sowmya. You are young, disciplined, and already investing in mutual funds. That itself is a big advantage for you. At 33, time is your best friend. You have the right habit to build wealth. I appreciate that you are thinking carefully about fund choice and future growth.

Below is a full and simple 360-degree view of your situation. It will help you refine your plan with confidence and clarity.

» Understanding your current plan

– You are 33 years old.

– You want to invest Rs 15,000 every month.

– You have already picked three equity mutual funds.

– You have chosen flexi cap, mid cap, and small cap funds.

This shows you want growth, you are open to some risk, and you are aware of diversification. That is a very good start.

» Evaluating your current funds mix

Flexi cap funds are good. They can move between large, mid, and small caps. They adjust based on market conditions. They balance growth with some safety.

Mid cap funds have higher growth potential than large caps. But they can fall more during bad markets. They suit a medium to long-term goal.

Small cap funds are highest risk among equity funds. They can give very high return in some years. They can also crash hard in bad times. They need patience and a long horizon.

Your mix has all three. But it has no pure large cap exposure. That increases risk. You may not feel it now because markets are stable. But during a downturn, the portfolio may fall sharply.

» Need for proper diversification

You should hold funds across large, mid, and small caps.

Flexi cap already covers some large cap. But if its weight shifts, you may have less safety.

Mid and small caps together make your portfolio aggressive.

At 33, you can take some risk. But keep balance for smooth growth.

The best structure is a mix of large cap or large-mid blend, one flexi cap, and one mid/small exposure.

This reduces big falls and helps you stay invested even during bad markets.

» Problems with direct funds

You have chosen direct plans. Many people think direct plans are better because they have lower cost. In practice, direct plans remove professional support. Without expert rebalancing, one can overstay in wrong funds or exit in panic. Small mistakes can eat more return than the saved expense.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner with MFD support offer many benefits:

– Proper selection based on risk capacity.

– Rebalancing at the right time.

– Behaviour control during market panic.

– Tax optimisation with planned switches and withdrawals.

The small trail fee is like insurance for your money decisions. It often protects more than it costs.

» Problems with index funds and ETFs

Sometimes people suggest index funds or ETFs. They look cheap and simple. But they only copy the market. They cannot adjust for bad sectors or bubbles. They give average return before cost. They can crash fully with the market and have no active defence.

Actively managed funds with skilled managers can shift money to stronger stocks, reduce risk, and capture opportunities. Over time, this flexibility can improve both return and safety. That is why for your long-term wealth, actively managed funds are better.

» Building a complete monthly SIP plan

Keep one large or large-mid blend fund for base stability.

Keep one flexi cap fund for balanced growth.

Keep one mid cap fund for extra growth but moderate risk.

Keep one small cap fund only in small proportion.

Avoid too many funds. Three to four are enough.

Allocate higher share to large or flexi cap. Smaller share to mid and small caps.

For example (not actual scheme names, only concept):

– Large cap or large-mid blend: About 40% of total SIP.

– Flexi cap: About 30% of total SIP.

– Mid cap: About 20% of total SIP.

– Small cap: About 10% of total SIP.

This keeps risk aligned with growth need.

» Adjusting based on future goals

If your goal is retirement after 20 years, you can stay high in equity.

If you have short goals (less than 7 years), reduce equity for that part. Use debt funds for short goals.

If you plan for a house, child education, or other big life event, separate those goals. Each goal should have its own mix.

Never mix short-term money with long-term aggressive funds.

» Importance of review

Review portfolio once a year.

Check fund performance against peers and category average.

Do not chase top performers every year. Long-term consistency matters more.

If a fund underperforms consistently for 2–3 years, consult your Certified Financial Planner and replace it.

Adjust asset allocation when life stage changes, like marriage, child, job shift, or nearing retirement.

» Building safety net alongside growth

Keep an emergency fund. At least 6 months of expenses in liquid or ultra-short-term debt funds.

Keep adequate health insurance. Company cover is not enough. Buy a personal policy.

Take term insurance based on income, family, and liabilities.

Protecting family is part of wealth building. Without it, all investment plans become fragile.

» Tax awareness in mutual funds

When you sell equity mutual funds, LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG on equity is taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds, both LTCG and STCG, are taxed at your income slab.

Plan redemptions smartly. Use tax-free thresholds carefully.

Use SWP for regular income later. It can reduce tax bite compared to full redemption.

» Emotional discipline matters

Markets will go up and down. Do not stop SIPs during a fall. Falls are opportunities. Units bought cheap grow faster when markets recover. Stopping SIPs at that time is a common mistake.

Your wealth journey is like growing a tree. Water it every month. Prune only when needed. Do not uproot it during storms.

» Finally

You are on the right path, Sowmya. You have started early, which is a gift. You have the discipline to invest every month. You only need small adjustments to reduce risk and improve balance.

Shift from direct to regular with a Certified Financial Planner. Add a stable large-cap or large-mid blend fund. Reduce heavy weight in mid and small caps. Keep reviewing once a year.

This simple discipline, done for the next 15–20 years, can create huge wealth. It can also give peace of mind, which is as valuable as money itself.

Stay patient, stay diversified, and keep guidance by your side. The journey will reward you well.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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I have investment in following funds and want to invest for 10-15 years and started investing 10,000 per month from jan 2024 in the following fund please suggest 1. Paragh parihk flexi fund-5000 per month 2.nippon small cap fund- 2000 per month 3.Icici direct nifty 50 index growth-2000 per month 4.icici pru balanced advantage direct growth-1000 per month
Ans: Your investment plan reflects a thoughtful approach towards long-term wealth creation. Let's evaluate your portfolio in detail and see if any adjustments or additions could improve your investment strategy for the next 10-15 years.

Portfolio Overview
Flexicap Fund - Rs. 5000 per month

A flexicap fund offers the flexibility to invest across market capitalizations. This allows the fund manager to adjust the portfolio based on market conditions, providing a balanced exposure to large, mid, and small cap stocks. This fund is suitable for long-term growth with diversified risk.

Small Cap Fund - Rs. 2000 per month

Small cap funds invest in smaller companies that have the potential for high growth. These funds can deliver significant returns over the long term but come with higher risk and volatility. Small cap funds are ideal for investors with a higher risk tolerance and a long investment horizon.

Index Fund - Rs. 2000 per month

Index funds track a specific market index, like the Nifty 50. These funds offer low-cost exposure to a broad market segment but lack the flexibility to outperform the index. In your case, the focus on index funds might limit the potential for higher returns that actively managed funds can provide.

Balanced Advantage Fund - Rs. 1000 per month

Balanced advantage funds dynamically allocate assets between equity and debt based on market conditions. This strategy aims to reduce risk while providing reasonable returns. These funds are suitable for investors seeking a balance between growth and stability.

Strengths of Your Portfolio
Diversification

Your portfolio is diversified across different types of funds, including flexicap, small cap, index, and balanced advantage funds. This diversification helps in spreading risk and maximizing returns.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Investing Rs. 10,000 per month through SIPs ensures disciplined investing. SIPs benefit from rupee cost averaging, which averages out the cost of investments over time and reduces the impact of market volatility.

Long-Term Horizon

A 10-15 year investment horizon is ideal for equity investments. This period allows you to benefit from the compounding effect, which can significantly enhance your wealth over time.

Evaluating Your Investment Strategy
Flexicap Fund

The flexicap fund in your portfolio offers flexibility and diversification. This fund can adjust its allocation to capitalize on market opportunities, making it a good choice for long-term growth.

Small Cap Fund

Small cap funds can provide high returns, but they are also more volatile. Given your long-term horizon, this fund can be a valuable part of your portfolio, but it requires a higher risk tolerance.

Index Fund

While index funds offer low-cost exposure to the market, they lack the ability to outperform the index. Actively managed funds, with skilled fund managers, can potentially provide higher returns by strategically selecting investments.

Balanced Advantage Fund

This fund provides a balanced approach, reducing risk through dynamic asset allocation. It offers stability and moderate growth, making it a good addition for risk-averse investors or as a stabilizing component in a diversified portfolio.

Potential Adjustments and Recommendations
Consider Actively Managed Funds

Replacing the index fund with an actively managed fund can enhance your portfolio's growth potential. Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market by leveraging the expertise of fund managers.

Review Direct Fund Investments

Direct funds can save on expense ratios, but they lack the professional guidance that regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) provide. Investing through an MFD with CFP credentials ensures you receive professional advice, helping you make informed investment decisions and align your investments with your financial goals.

Rebalance Periodically

Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. This involves selling some assets and buying others to keep your portfolio aligned with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds Over Index Funds
Potential for Higher Returns

Actively managed funds aim to outperform market indices by making strategic investment decisions. Skilled fund managers identify growth opportunities, which can lead to higher returns compared to passive index funds.

Flexibility

Active fund managers can adjust portfolios based on market conditions, whereas index funds are tied to a fixed list of stocks. This flexibility can enhance returns and manage risks more effectively.

Risk Management

Actively managed funds can mitigate risks by diversifying investments and making strategic adjustments. This proactive approach to risk management can protect your portfolio during market downturns.

Advantages of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
Professional Guidance

Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials provides access to professional advice and support. This can be crucial in making informed investment decisions and achieving your long-term financial goals.

Ease of Transactions

Regular funds often come with additional services such as easier transaction processes and personalized financial advice. This support can save time and provide peace of mind.

Comprehensive Financial Planning

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers holistic financial planning, considering all aspects of your financial life. This ensures that your investments are aligned with your broader financial goals and risk tolerance.

Monitoring and Adjustment
Stay Informed

Stay updated on market trends and economic indicators. Understanding market dynamics helps in making informed investment decisions and adjusting your strategy if needed.

Long-Term Perspective

Maintain a long-term perspective, focusing on your financial goals. Market fluctuations are normal; patience and discipline are essential for successful long-term investing.

Professional Guidance

Engaging a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can add immense value. A CFP can provide personalized advice, ensuring your investments are aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Conclusion
Your current portfolio and investment strategy show a good mix of flexibility, growth potential, and stability. The combination of flexicap, small cap, index, and balanced advantage funds offers a diversified approach to long-term wealth creation. However, replacing the index fund with an actively managed fund and considering regular funds through an MFD with CFP credentials can further enhance your portfolio's growth potential and provide professional guidance.

Regular monitoring, rebalancing, and staying informed about market trends are crucial to maintaining a robust investment portfolio. Engaging a Certified Financial Planner can provide additional guidance and support, helping you stay on track to achieve your financial goals.

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 May 06, 2024

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Sir, Now I am 55 and started investing since last two years ago, due to family responsibilities. Now I am investing in (1) HDFC Midcap opportunities fund direct plan Rs 5000 (2) Mirae asset large cap and mid cap fund direct growth plan Rs 5000 (3) Nippon India Small Cap fund direct growth plan Rs 8000 (4) Parag Parikh flexicap fund RS 2000 per month. I will be remain invested for min 10 years. And retired with normal corpus. Not big. Please suggest for investment, Within Rs 20000- per month.
Ans: It's never too late to start investing, and it's admirable that you've taken this step towards securing your financial future, especially with family responsibilities and approaching retirement. Let's explore some suggestions for your investment within your budget of Rs 20,000 per month:

Diversify Your Portfolio: Your current portfolio already includes a mix of mid-cap, large-cap, small-cap, and flexi-cap funds, which is a good start. To further diversify, consider adding a balanced fund or a hybrid fund, which invests in a mix of equities and debt instruments. This can provide stability while still offering growth potential.
Consider Debt Investments: As you approach retirement, it's essential to balance your portfolio with debt investments to reduce overall risk. You can allocate a portion of your monthly investment towards debt funds or fixed-income instruments like PPF, RDs, or bonds. These investments offer steady returns and help preserve capital.
Evaluate Risk Tolerance: Given your age and investment horizon of at least 10 years, you can afford to take on some risk to achieve higher returns. However, it's crucial to assess your risk tolerance and ensure that your investment choices align with your comfort level.
Review and Rebalance Regularly: Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions. Rebalance your portfolio if necessary, considering changes in your financial situation or investment objectives.
Consult with a Financial Advisor: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner or financial advisor who can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and goals. They can help you create a customized investment plan and provide guidance on asset allocation, portfolio diversification, and risk management.
Stay Invested for the Long Term: Investing for retirement requires patience and discipline. Continue to invest regularly and stay committed to your long-term financial goals. Avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations.
Remember, investing is a journey, and it's essential to remain focused on your goals while adapting to changing circumstances. With careful planning and prudent investment choices, you can build a secure financial future for yourself and your family. Keep up the good work, and best of luck on your investment journey!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Hello Sir, i am 45, working as govt employee. I am currently investing in following funds for the past 5 years- 1. Canara Rob Emerg equities fund-reg(g)-2000. 2. ICICI Pru blueschip fund(g)-2000 3. Nippon India focused equity fund (g)-2000 4. SBI Small cap fund-reg(g)-2000 5. Tata Hybrid equity fund reg(g)-2000. Sir, first advice,Do I have to change these funds or these are ok?. Please suggest me your inputs regarding these funds. I also want to add 4000 more per month. Please suggest me good funds.
Ans: Your consistent investment over the past 5 years reflects commendable financial discipline. Let's evaluate your current portfolio and suggest potential adjustments to align with your goals.

Review of Current Investments
1. Canara Rob Emerg Equities Fund:

Focus: Emerging equities.
Assessment: Offers exposure to high-growth potential companies. May be volatile but suitable for long-term growth.
2. ICICI Pru Bluechip Fund:

Focus: Bluechip companies.
Assessment: Provides stability and consistent returns. Suitable for investors seeking steady growth with lower risk.
3. Nippon India Focused Equity Fund:

Focus: Focused approach to equity investment.
Assessment: Concentrated portfolio aiming for higher returns. Requires higher risk tolerance.
4. SBI Small Cap Fund:

Focus: Small cap companies.
Assessment: High growth potential but comes with higher risk due to volatility.
5. Tata Hybrid Equity Fund:

Focus: Mix of equity and debt.
Assessment: Provides diversification and stability. Suitable for conservative investors.
Potential Adjustments
1. Reviewing Existing Funds:

Performance Check: Assess the performance of your current funds against benchmarks and peers.
Risk Assessment: Consider your risk tolerance and investment horizon when evaluating the suitability of each fund.
2. Adding New Funds:

Strategic Allocation: Consider adding funds that complement your existing portfolio and fill any gaps.
Diversification: Aim for a well-diversified portfolio across asset classes and investment styles.
Suggestions for Additional Investments
1. Large Cap Fund:

Stability: Add a large cap fund for stability and consistent returns.
Example: Look for funds with a proven track record in investing in bluechip companies.
2. Balanced Advantage Fund:

Dynamic Allocation: Consider a balanced advantage fund for dynamic asset allocation.
Benefits: These funds adjust their equity-debt mix based on market conditions, providing stability with growth potential.
3. Multi-Cap Fund:

Diversification: Invest in a multi-cap fund for exposure across market capitalizations.
Flexibility: These funds have the flexibility to invest across large, mid, and small cap stocks based on market opportunities.
Importance of Professional Guidance
Engage a Certified Financial Planner (CFP):

Personalized Advice: A CFP can provide personalized advice tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Optimization: Helps optimize your portfolio and ensure it aligns with your long-term objectives.
Regular Monitoring and Review
Periodic Portfolio Review:

Frequency: Review your investment portfolio periodically, at least annually.
Adjustments: Make adjustments as needed to ensure your investments stay aligned with your goals and market conditions.
Final Thoughts
Your current portfolio includes a mix of funds catering to different investment objectives. Consider reviewing the performance of your existing funds and adding new funds to further diversify and optimize your portfolio. Seeking professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable insights and ensure your investments are on track to meet your goals.

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 May 28, 2025

Money
Hi there, I am 25 year old and I am planning to invest 25-30k in something not sure where so needed your help and I have existing monthly investment close to 8-9k Existing MF 1)Nippon india small cap direct growth 2)Bajaj Finserv balanced advantage fund direct growth 3) ICICI prudential commodities fund direct 4) digital gold 5) nifty bees Please tell me if this is the right approach
Ans: At 25, starting early is your biggest advantage. You’ve already begun investing. That itself is a good step. Now, you are thinking deeper. That is wise. You want to grow wealth steadily. You also want to avoid risky mistakes. That is the best mindset to have now.

Let’s now take a full look at your situation.

We will cover:

What is going right in your current plan

What can be improved

What to do with your new Rs. 25,000–30,000

Disadvantages of index funds and direct plans

Safer and smarter asset mix

Future goal planning from now

Role of Certified Financial Planner in wealth growth

Final insights for your age and journey

Your Current Portfolio Assessment:

You invest Rs. 8,000–9,000 monthly

You hold a small cap fund, balanced advantage, commodities, and digital gold

You also invest in Nifty Bees – an ETF tracking index

This is a diverse portfolio, but some gaps are there

Overall structure lacks stability and purpose right now

Let’s evaluate each choice separately.

Small Cap Fund:

High growth but high risk also

Small caps are volatile in short term

Better to hold small cap only if you have long-term view

Limit small cap exposure to 15–20% of total portfolio

SIP is the right way to invest here

Balanced Advantage Fund:

This gives equity and debt mix

It adjusts automatically based on market

Good for first-time investors

But do not depend only on this for long-term wealth

Commodities Fund:

Commodity funds are highly volatile

Mostly linked to oil, metals, or international prices

Not ideal for monthly SIP unless for a specific reason

Better limit to a small part of portfolio only

Does not create steady long-term wealth like equity mutual funds

Digital Gold:

Gold is a good hedge for risk

But should not be main part of investments

Keep 5–10% of portfolio in gold, not more

Avoid digital gold for large, long-term investments

It does not beat inflation in the long run

Nifty Bees (Index ETF):

You are investing in an index fund indirectly

Index funds do not have active fund managers

They follow market blindly, without adjustments

They perform poorly in falling markets

No downside protection at all

Actively managed mutual funds are better for this reason

Experts in active funds manage based on economy, not blindly copy index

So better to shift this part to an actively managed fund

Issues With Direct Mutual Funds:

You are choosing direct mutual fund plans

Direct plans do not have expert advisory built-in

No one is there to guide or do annual reviews

You may miss changing market signals or fund underperformance

Regular plans through MFDs with CFP support give guided decisions

You get proper allocation, rebalancing, and financial planning support

Performance difference may be higher in long run due to poor choices

Certified Financial Planner gives peace of mind and accountability

What Can Be Improved:

You need core stability in the portfolio

Right now, your mix is tilted towards high risk

You do not have large cap or flexi cap funds

No defined plan for future goals like house, marriage, etc.

No emergency fund or insurance mentioned in question

You are choosing funds in isolation without goal-based structure

What You Should Do With Rs. 25,000–30,000 Extra:

Use this monthly surplus wisely

Start SIP in actively managed flexi cap mutual fund

Add a large-cap fund for stability and size

Add a good hybrid equity-debt mutual fund for balance

Avoid more commodity, small cap, or sector-specific themes

Divide your Rs. 30,000 monthly like this:

– Rs. 10,000 into flexi cap mutual fund

– Rs. 10,000 into large cap mutual fund

– Rs. 5,000 into hybrid mutual fund

– Rs. 5,000 into liquid or ultra-short debt fund for short term goals

Keep digital gold limit to Rs. 500–1000 per month only

Stop index fund like Nifty Bees and shift to active mutual fund

Track fund performance every 6 months and rebalance once a year

Stick to regular mutual funds with Certified Financial Planner support

Goal-Based Investing Is Important:

Right now, you are investing without a defined goal

Define 3–5 goals now and assign money to each

Example: Emergency fund, buying vehicle, house down payment, marriage, travel

Assign each goal a time period and expected cost

Allocate funds accordingly – short, medium, and long-term buckets

Emergency fund should be Rs. 1.5 to 2 lakh at least

Use liquid funds to build this

Future goals like buying home or car in 3–5 years – use hybrid funds

Retirement goal can have more equity and flexi cap funds

Assign each SIP to one goal

Review goals once a year

Update your SIP amount as income grows

Asset Mix You Should Aim For:

Equity (large, flexi, hybrid) – 65%

Debt mutual funds or liquid funds – 20%

Gold – 5–7%

Emergency fund (cash or ultra-short debt fund) – 8–10%

Avoid commodities, index funds, and high-risk themes above 5–8%

Always link each investment to a purpose

Certified Financial Planner Can Help You:

You are young and still learning money skills

CFP will help you build a full financial roadmap

CFP guides on asset allocation based on your life stage

Also checks if funds are working well or need change

CFP helps you avoid poor choices and emotional investing

You also get help in taxes, documentation, and long-term planning

With a CFP, your plan becomes goal-based and stress-free

Finally:

You have started early, and that is your biggest asset

Your current funds need realignment and stability

Digital gold and commodities should be limited

Avoid index funds like Nifty Bees. They do not offer smart handling

Avoid direct funds. They lack guidance and make you invest blindly

Use regular mutual funds with support from Certified Financial Planner

Keep asset mix balanced between equity, debt, and gold

Always link each SIP to a goal. Do not invest without purpose

Rebalance portfolio every 12 months. Exit poor funds, add better ones

Focus more on time in the market, not timing the market

Review your income, goals, and risk every year. Update investments accordingly

Keep investing for 10–15 years with patience and plan

Wealth will grow automatically if you stay disciplined and guided

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
Money
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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