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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 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
Sunil Question by Sunil on Feb 29, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir my ongoing sip in Nippon small cap DG from past 5 years my goal is 1 cr. Sip 25 k pm. When will reach to my goal. Assuming 21% xirr

Ans: It's commendable that you've been diligently investing in SIPs for your financial goals. Given your commitment, here are some tips:

Stay Consistent: Maintain discipline in your SIP investments, as regular contributions over time can yield significant results.
Diversify Wisely: Consider diversifying your portfolio across different asset classes and investment vehicles to spread risk.
Regular Review: Periodically review your investments to ensure they align with your goals and adjust if necessary.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on market trends and economic developments to make informed investment decisions.
Long-Term Outlook: Maintain a long-term perspective with your investments, as short-term fluctuations are part of the journey.
Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to fine-tune your investment strategy and address any concerns.
Stay Patient: Remember that wealth accumulation takes time, so stay patient and trust in your investment plan.
By following these guidelines and staying committed to your financial objectives, you're on the right path towards achieving your goals. Keep up the good work!
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 May 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 22, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir, I am 28 years old. I have started an SIP of 10,500/month in Nippon India Flexi Cap Fund, and intend to stay invested to next 20-25 years. I also plan to step up the SIP amount every year. What is the rate of return should I be expecting if I stay invested for 25 years and could the corpus amount be close to 20 crores?
Ans: Firstly, congratulations on starting your SIP journey at a young age. Investing Rs. 10,500 per month in the Nippon India Flexi Cap Fund with a long-term horizon of 20-25 years is a commendable decision. Your plan to increase the SIP amount each year shows a disciplined approach towards wealth creation.

Understanding SIP and Expected Returns
What is SIP?
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly in a mutual fund scheme. This method inculcates financial discipline and helps in averaging the cost of investment over time.

Expected Rate of Return
Mutual funds, especially equity-oriented ones like Flexi Cap Funds, typically have the potential to offer an annual return between 12% to 15% over the long term. However, these returns are not guaranteed and are subject to market risks.

Projecting Future Corpus
Compound Interest and Power of Compounding
Compounding plays a significant role in wealth creation over long periods. The longer you stay invested, the more your money works for you through the power of compounding.

Corpus Estimation
If we assume an average annual return of 12% to 15%, your corpus over 25 years can be significant. Regularly increasing your SIP amount (step-up SIP) further enhances this growth potential.

Benefits of Step-Up SIP
Increasing Your Investment
Step-up SIP involves increasing your SIP amount annually. This approach takes advantage of increasing income over time and ensures that your investment grows at a faster rate.

Inflation Hedge
Increasing your SIP helps combat inflation. It ensures that your real returns are not eroded by the rising cost of living.

Achieving a Rs. 20 Crore Corpus
Realistic Expectations
Achieving a Rs. 20 crore corpus is ambitious but achievable with a disciplined approach. Increasing your SIP amount annually and staying invested for the long term are key strategies.

Scenario Analysis
If you start with Rs. 10,500 per month and increase it by 10% annually, assuming an average return of 12% to 15%, your corpus could potentially reach close to or exceed Rs. 20 crores over 25 years.

Regular Monitoring and Review
Importance of Periodic Review
Regularly reviewing your investments is crucial. It helps ensure that your portfolio remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Market conditions change over time. Rebalancing your portfolio ensures that it maintains the desired asset allocation, balancing risk and returns.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner
Professional Guidance
Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide you with tailored advice. They help you stay on track with your financial goals and adjust your strategy as needed.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls
A CFP can help you avoid common investment mistakes, such as reacting impulsively to market volatility or failing to diversify adequately.

Conclusion
Your proactive approach to investing through SIPs in the Nippon India Flexi Cap Fund is commendable. By staying invested for the long term and regularly increasing your SIP amount, you have a strong potential to achieve your financial goals. Regular reviews and professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner will ensure you remain on track towards building a significant corpus, potentially close to Rs. 20 crores.

Keep focusing on maintaining a disciplined investment strategy and regularly review your portfolio. This approach will help you achieve financial security and wealth creation over time.

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 Jun 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 23, 2024Hindi
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I am 30years old investing monthly in SIPs as follows: 5000 in aditya birla sun life PSU equity direct fund, 3000 in nippon india small cap fund direct growth, 5000 in icici prudential infrastructure direct growth 4000 in quant small cap fund direct growth paln, 5000 in nippon large cap fund, 5000 in canara robeco equity hybrid fund regular. Apart from the above I have invested bulk 24k in invesco india psu india equity fund direct And 50k n 60k in canara manufacturing NFOs. My goal is to have 1cr, for how many years do i need to continue investing for me to reach my goal
Ans: It’s great to see that you are actively investing and planning for your financial future. Reaching a goal of Rs 1 crore is ambitious and achievable with disciplined saving and smart investment strategies. Let’s break down your investment journey and evaluate how to reach your goal.

Understanding Your Current Investments
Your current SIPs and lump sum investments are quite diverse. Here’s a snapshot of your monthly investments:

Rs 5,000 in a PSU equity fund.
Rs 3,000 in a small-cap fund.
Rs 5,000 in an infrastructure fund.
Rs 4,000 in another small-cap fund.
Rs 5,000 in a large-cap fund.
Rs 5,000 in a hybrid equity fund.
You have also invested:

Rs 24,000 in a PSU equity fund.
Rs 50,000 and Rs 60,000 in manufacturing NFOs.
This diversification is beneficial but needs a strategic review.

Evaluating Your Portfolio
Your portfolio leans towards sector-specific funds (PSU, infrastructure) and small-cap funds. While these can generate high returns, they also carry higher risks. Let's evaluate the pros and cons of your investment choices.

Pros:

High Growth Potential: Small-cap and sector-specific funds can offer significant returns during market uptrends.
Diversification: Investing in different sectors spreads risk.
Hybrid Fund: Provides a mix of equity and debt, balancing growth and stability.
Cons:

High Volatility: Small-cap and sector-specific funds are more volatile and risky.
Sector Concentration Risk: Heavy investment in specific sectors can be risky if those sectors underperform.
Lack of Stability: Lack of significant investments in more stable, large-cap funds.
Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
While actively managed funds can potentially offer higher returns, they come with higher management fees. However, their benefits often outweigh the disadvantages of index funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds:

Passive Management: Index funds simply replicate the index without any strategic adjustments.
Market Dependency: They perform in line with the market, offering no downside protection.
Limited Flexibility: No room for fund managers to capitalize on market inefficiencies.
Advantages of Actively Managed Funds:

Professional Management: Fund managers make strategic decisions to outperform the market.
Flexibility: Ability to adapt to market changes and economic conditions.
Potential for Higher Returns: Active management can potentially yield better returns.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds might have lower expense ratios, but regular funds come with the benefit of professional guidance.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds:

No Professional Guidance: You miss out on the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner.
DIY Approach: Requires more personal research and time investment.
Risk of Poor Decisions: Without professional advice, there's a higher risk of poor investment choices.
Benefits of Regular Funds:

Expert Advice: CFPs provide tailored advice based on your financial goals.
Portfolio Management: Ongoing monitoring and rebalancing of your portfolio.
Stress-free Investing: Less effort required from your side in managing investments.
Projecting Your Goal Achievement
To reach Rs 1 crore, you need a strategic plan. Assuming an average annual return of 12%, which is a reasonable expectation for a diversified equity portfolio, let’s estimate the timeframe.

Your current SIP investment totals Rs 27,000 per month. The lump sum investments add another dimension. Here’s a breakdown:

Monthly SIP: Rs 27,000
Lump Sum: Rs 1,34,000
Long-term Investment Horizon
Given your current investments, let's assess how long it might take to reach Rs 1 crore.

Investment Growth Factors:

Consistent SIPs: Continuing your Rs 27,000 monthly SIP.
Market Performance: Assuming an average annual return of 12%.
Regular Review: Adjusting your portfolio as needed with professional advice.
Detailed Investment Strategy
Reevaluate Sector-specific Funds:
Sector funds can be volatile. Consider balancing them with more stable, diversified funds.

Increase Large-cap Exposure:
Large-cap funds offer stability. They should form a core part of your portfolio.

Hybrid Funds for Stability:
Continue with hybrid funds for a balanced approach.

Regular Monitoring:
Have a CFP regularly review and rebalance your portfolio.

Tax Efficiency and Savings
Consider the tax implications of your investments. Equity funds held for over a year are subject to long-term capital gains tax, which is lower than short-term. Utilize tax-saving funds like ELSS to benefit from Section 80C deductions.

Benefits of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
A CFP can provide invaluable assistance:

Tailored Advice: Aligning investments with your financial goals.
Risk Management: Balancing risk and return effectively.
Portfolio Rebalancing: Adjusting investments based on market conditions.
Adjusting Your Investment Strategy
To optimize your journey towards Rs 1 crore:

Diversify Wisely: Balance high-risk, high-reward investments with stable ones.
Focus on Long-term Growth: Prioritize long-term potential over short-term gains.
Leverage Professional Guidance: Utilize a CFP for informed decision-making.
Final Insights
To summarize:

Maintain and Review: Keep your current SIPs but consider diversifying further.
Adjust Sector Exposure: Reduce concentration in sector-specific funds.
Increase Stability: Add more large-cap and hybrid funds.
Utilize Professional Help: Regularly consult a CFP for portfolio adjustments.
Stay Committed: Continue disciplined investing and regular reviews.
Achieving Rs 1 crore is possible with consistent investing, strategic diversification, and professional guidance. Stay committed to your financial goals and regularly reassess your strategy to ensure you stay on track.

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 Oct 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 16, 2024Hindi
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Sir my age 40 years how much amount invest in sip after 20 years got 5 cr.
Ans: At the age of 40, you are in a great position to start planning for your financial future. Achieving Rs 5 crore in 20 years is definitely possible with disciplined investments. To achieve this goal, investing through SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) in equity mutual funds can be your best option. Let’s dive into how much you need to invest and how to plan it right.

How Much Should You Invest?
To accumulate Rs 5 crore in 20 years, you need to invest regularly in equity mutual funds. Over long periods, these funds tend to offer higher returns, typically around 10-12% annually.

If we assume a return of 12% per year, you might need to invest around Rs 50,000 per month in SIPs to reach your goal of Rs 5 crore in 20 years.

Now, Rs 50,000 may seem high, but remember, you can start smaller and gradually increase your SIPs. Let’s look at how this can be done.

Start Small, Increase Over Time
If you cannot invest Rs 50,000 right away, don’t worry. You can start with a smaller amount, like Rs 20,000 or Rs 30,000 per month. Then, increase your SIPs every year by a certain percentage, like 10%. This approach is called SIP Top-up, and it allows you to invest more as your income grows. By doing this, you’ll eventually reach the required monthly investment over time.

Why Choose Actively Managed Mutual Funds?
You might wonder, “Why should I choose actively managed funds over index funds or direct mutual funds?”

Actively managed mutual funds are managed by professional fund managers who constantly monitor and adjust the fund’s portfolio. This allows them to perform better in volatile markets. Index funds, while cheaper, do not have this flexibility, which could limit your returns in the long run.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner who can guide you with regular funds is also a safer option than going for direct mutual funds. The expertise of a CFP ensures your portfolio is well-diversified, managed effectively, and aligned with your financial goals.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Direct mutual funds may seem appealing due to lower costs, but they lack professional guidance. Without a CFP or professional manager, you might miss crucial market signals or fail to rebalance your portfolio at the right time. Investing in regular funds with the help of a Certified Financial Planner ensures that your investments are optimally managed.

Diversify Your Investments
While equity mutual funds should form the majority of your portfolio for growth, it’s essential to diversify your investments across different categories. This could include:

Equity Mutual Funds for long-term growth.

Debt Funds for stability and to reduce risk as you approach your target.

This diversification will protect your investments from market volatility and give you a more balanced portfolio.

Tax Implications of Mutual Funds
Understanding the tax rules is crucial to managing your investments efficiently.

Equity Mutual Funds: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

Debt Mutual Funds: Both LTCG and STCG are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Knowing these tax rates can help you plan your withdrawals and avoid unnecessary tax burdens.

Key Points to Stay Focused On
Discipline: Make sure to invest every month without skipping your SIPs. Over time, your money will grow, and even small amounts will compound into a larger corpus.

Don’t Panic: Markets can be volatile. However, do not panic and withdraw during market corrections. Stay invested for the full 20 years to reap the benefits of compounding.

Review Regularly: Meet with your Certified Financial Planner at least once a year to review your portfolio. This ensures you stay on track and make adjustments as needed.

Final Insights
At the age of 40, investing Rs 50,000 per month in equity mutual funds through SIPs can help you accumulate Rs 5 crore in 20 years. If this amount seems high initially, start smaller and increase your SIPs each year. Avoid index funds and direct mutual funds to ensure you get the best professional advice and fund management.

Focus on disciplined investing, avoid panic during market fluctuations, and diversify your portfolio for stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 26, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 25, 2025Hindi
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Hello Sir i have started Yearly SIP of 1 lakhs with 5 % STEPUP in how many years it will grow 1 CR the fund name is -- BAJAJ FINFERVE MULTI CAP FUND and a Lumbsum of 3 lakhs is in MOTILAL OSWAL MIDCAP REGULAR GROWTH HOW MUCH IT WOULD BE IN in 10 years also i am planning to do SIP in Cypto for 1500 per Month how much it would be in 15 years. Also guide me would much idealy i should widrawal from 1CR per month to take my corpur up to 5 CR
Ans: Your discipline shows seriousness. Your clarity shows focus. Your desire for future planning shows stability. I appreciate this mindset. You also show interest in understanding the right path. That helps you avoid mistakes.

– You think long term.
– You follow equity investing.
– You use step-up SIP.
– You invest in active funds.
– You review your plan.
These habits support stable wealth building.
Your questions also show deep interest.
Your intention to stay on the right path is very important.

» Your Yearly SIP of Rs 1 Lakh with 5% Step-Up
Your yearly SIP is a strong step.
A yearly SIP with step-up helps future wealth.
A 5% increase each year adds more power.
Your active fund choice is good.
Active funds help long term growth.
Active funds use research and selection.
They remove weak stocks quickly.
They add strong stocks early.
This protects your money during market falls.
Passive index funds cannot do this.
Index funds copy the index blindly.
They cannot avoid weak companies.
They also cannot increase weight in strong companies.
This reduces overall return.
This increases long term risk.
So your choice of an active multi cap fund is better.

» Time Needed to Reach Rs 1 Crore with This SIP
Your yearly SIP will grow each year.
Your investment amount increases.
Your fund also compounds over time.
Both these work together.
This helps you reach your Rs 1 crore target.
With step-up SIP and active equity fund growth, your target is reachable.
You need patience.
You need discipline.
You should not stop SIPs during market falls.
If you stay invested, your compounding will stay on track.
This path helps you hit Rs 1 crore comfortably.

» Your Rs 3 Lakh Lumpsum in Mid Cap Fund
Your lumpsum is placed in an active mid cap fund.
Mid caps offer high growth potential.
Mid caps also carry more volatility.
But long term growth is strong.
Active mid cap funds help in selecting better mid cap companies.
They study balance sheets.
They study cash flows.
They study management quality.
This helps avoid weak mid caps.
Passive mid cap index funds cannot do this.
They hold all stocks in the index.
This includes low quality companies also.
Your choice of an active mid cap fund is better for long term wealth.

Your Rs 3 lakh can grow over 10 years.
Mid caps grow more than large caps in long horizons.
Their compounding is strong.
Your lumpsum may multiply in ten years.
Returns depend on market cycles also.
But mid caps give strong potential in long periods.

» Crypto SIP of Rs 1500 Per Month – Strong Warning
You asked about doing SIP in crypto.
I strongly advise against crypto.
Crypto is not regulated fully.
Crypto has no real business behind it.
Crypto has no cash flow.
Crypto has no balance sheet.
Crypto has no revenue.
Crypto is driven only by speculation.
Crypto prices jump without reason.
Crypto prices crash without warning.
Crypto coins vanish from market with no notice.
Crypto exchanges also shut down sometimes.
Crypto can suddenly become worthless.
This makes it extremely risky.

You should avoid putting money in crypto.
Crypto should not be used for long term goals.
Crypto should not be used for wealth creation.
Crypto should not be used for children goals.
Crypto should not be used for retirement.
Crypto should not be used for savings.
Crypto should not be used for systematic investing.
Crypto has no protection.
Crypto has no safety.
Crypto has no long term record.
Crypto cannot replace equity.
Crypto cannot replace mutual funds.
Crypto cannot replace long term wealth tools.

So you should skip crypto fully.
That Rs 1500 per month can go into equity funds instead.
Or you can add it to your step-up plan.
This will give safer and stable wealth.

» If You Hold Direct Funds, Review Them
You should avoid direct funds.
Direct funds give no guidance.
Direct funds give no support during fear.
Direct funds give no help with corrections.
Direct funds give no advice on asset allocation.
Direct funds give no risk management support.
Direct funds only reduce expense ratio slightly.
But this small saving cannot beat the value of right advice.
Mistakes in direct investing cost more than expense ratio difference.

Regular funds give you support.
Support helps you avoid panic selling.
Support keeps you invested during falls.
Support aligns funds with goals.
Support reviews risk yearly.
Support ensures long term discipline.
This support from an MFD with CFP qualification gives stability.
Your long-term wealth depends more on discipline than expense savings.

» Stay with Active Funds
Active funds suit your profile.
Active funds suit long term wealth.
Active funds select strong companies.
Active funds move out of weak sectors.
Active funds capture opportunities early.
Passive funds cannot do this.
Passive funds follow indexes blindly.
Indexes contain weak companies also.
Passive funds stay stuck in them.
This reduces long term wealth.
Your plan should continue with active funds.

» Growth of Your Rs 3 Lakh in 10 Years
Your Rs 3 lakh in mid caps can grow strongly.
Mid caps grow faster in long periods.
Your fund can multiply.
Your return depends on market cycles and stability.
But long term direction stays positive.
Active mid caps offer higher return potential.
So your 10-year growth outlook is healthy.

» Why You Must Avoid Crypto for 15 Years
You earlier planned a 15-year crypto SIP.
This is not safe.
Crypto has no stability.
Crypto is pure speculation.
Crypto has no fundamentals.
Crypto has no valuation model.
Crypto movements are unpredictable.
Crypto may give big returns in rare cycles.
But crypto may give zero returns also.
Crypto may also give negative returns.
Crypto may disappear also.

No long term goal should depend on such an asset.
So completely avoid crypto investing.

» Should You Withdraw from Rs 1 Crore Monthly to Reach Rs 5 Crore?
You asked how much should be withdrawn from Rs 1 crore to take your corpus to Rs 5 crore.
Withdrawal and growth do not go together.
If you withdraw, your principal reduces.
When principal reduces, compounding slows.
And slower compounding delays reaching Rs 5 crore.
So withdrawal is not suitable when the target is corpus growth.

If you want your Rs 1 crore to reach Rs 5 crore,
you should avoid withdrawing.
Your Rs 1 crore should remain invested fully.
Let compounding work.
Let active funds grow your money slowly and steadily.

If withdrawal is compulsory, then withdraw very little.
Withdraw much below the expected fund growth.
But even then, it slows your journey to Rs 5 crore.
So avoid monthly withdrawal if your only aim is growth.

Keep the Rs 1 crore intact.
Allow it to grow for many years.
This gives the highest chance of reaching Rs 5 crore.

» Strong Points in Your Planning
– You have long term horizon.
– You use active funds.
– You use step-up SIP.
– You avoid passive index funds.
– You avoid direct funds.
– You want clarity for goals.
– You want disciplined investing.
These habits support your future wealth.

» How to Maintain Healthy Investment Behaviour
– Stay invested always.
– Do not react to news.
– Avoid new shiny assets.
– Avoid crypto.
– Avoid timing the market.
– Keep SIPs running.
– Increase SIP yearly.
– Review funds once a year.
– Use regular funds for support.

These steps help wealth compound peacefully.

» Tax Rules for Planning
Equity LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh gets 12.5% tax.
Equity STCG gets 20% tax.
Debt gains are taxed at your income slab.
Keep these rules in mind while redeeming.
Plan redemptions when the tax impact is low.
Avoid frequent exiting.
This saves tax and increases wealth retention.

» Safer Alternatives to Crypto
Instead of crypto, use equity funds.
They have business value.
They have real earnings.
They have audited accounts.
They have proper regulation.
They have long term history.
They have expert fund managers.
This gives safer and reliable growth.

Crypto gives none of these.
So avoid crypto fully.

» Long Term Vision to Reach Rs 5 Crore
Your goals are possible.
Your mindset is right.
Your discipline will help you grow.
Your step-up SIP will increase wealth.
Your mid cap lumpsum will grow further.
Your active approach protects downside.
Your patience will support long term compounding.

Skip crypto.
Stay with equity funds.
Stay with step-up SIP.
Avoid withdrawal from Rs 1 crore.
Let it grow peacefully.
Your journey to Rs 5 crore becomes smooth.

» Finally
Your plan is strong.
Your long term thinking is good.
Your fund choices are suitable.
Your SIP step-up adds more strength.
Your mid cap exposure brings growth.
Your desire to plan for future shows maturity.
But crypto must be avoided fully.
Crypto does not support long term wealth.
Crypto brings high risk without real value.
So skip crypto and stick to proven paths.
This will protect your money.
This will help you reach Rs 5 crore.
Stay patient.
Stay focused.
Your goals are well within reach.

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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