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T S Khurana

T S Khurana   |536 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

A certified management accountant since 1993, T S Khurana is a fellow member of The Institute of Cost Accountants of India. His areas of expertise are income tax, specifically litigation cases, and GST.

Since the last 21 years, he has also been providing expert advice on financial matters, including investments and diversification of funds, and wealth building in the long term to his clients.
He believes that investment in real estate is the safest way for better returns and wealth generation over a period of time.

A former chairman of the Chandigarh Chapter of Institute of Cost Accountants of India, T S Khurana has also served as member of its technical committee.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 14, 2025
Money

Should a parent give gift deed to the son to buy a property in UAE

Ans: You may prepare a Gift Deed. This shall avoid many legal complications.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.
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  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 11, 2025
Money
Is it wise to give my hard earned money to my good earning only son for buying a property in UAE and what is the risk
Ans: Understand Your Own Financial Position First

Check if your retirement corpus is already sufficient and growing steadily.

Assess your income sources like pension, rental income, or dividends for post-retirement life.

Ensure that you have an emergency fund set aside for medical or family needs.

Review your health insurance coverage and ensure it is adequate for your future.

If all these are in place, you can consider helping your son. Otherwise, hold back.

Your financial independence should come before generosity. Helping now must not lead to dependency later.

Avoid giving from your retirement savings unless you are fully secure.

Ask These Questions Before Giving

Is your son asking for this help, or are you offering it voluntarily?

Is this a loan, a gift, or a part of your inheritance in advance?

Will you get anything in return, like co-ownership or rental benefit?

Will he repay the amount, and if yes, what is the timeline?

Is this property a necessity for him or a luxury or status-driven decision?

Understand the Financial Risk Involved

UAE property market can be unpredictable and is not regulated like India.

Ownership laws may differ for non-residents. Your name may not be added easily.

There is a risk of market crash or legal issues in foreign countries.

If your son faces job issues or relocates, managing the property can be hard.

Reselling in UAE may take time and may involve high charges or tax.

Your money may get locked up with no real benefit to you.

Emotional and Legal Aspects Matter Too

Relationships can change. Money involvement can create future tension.

There is no legal guarantee your son will return the money unless documented.

Discuss openly with your son before taking a decision.

Document the transaction clearly even if he is your only child.

A written agreement helps avoid misunderstandings in future.

Better Ways to Help Without Risking Your Security

You can consider a partial contribution, not the full amount.

Offer a loan with soft terms, but legally documented.

Instead of giving a lump sum, offer monthly support if needed.

You can consider investing in Indian mutual funds in his name, which he can use later.

Keep some control or co-ownership if investing directly in the property.

Avoid liquidating long-term retirement savings or insurance proceeds to fund this.

Why Emotional Pressure Should Not Drive Financial Decisions

Many Indian parents feel emotional obligation to help children even if it hurts them.

Always think with both heart and mind together.

Your son is already earning well. He can take a loan if needed.

Giving now can affect your peace if your own expenses rise later.

You worked for years to build this money. It must serve your future first.

Final Insights

Helping children is a noble thought, but not at the cost of your safety.

It is better to be financially secure and emotionally supportive than just generous.

If your son is sincere and the property is essential, support in a documented and limited way.

Always consult a Certified Financial Planner before giving a large amount.

Protect your financial health while caring for your family. Both are important.

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 02, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 25, 2025Hindi
Money
What is implication of gift need from father to NRI son for purchase of property.
Ans: When a father in India gives a gift to his son who is an NRI (Non-Resident Indian), there are important financial and tax implications. Let me explain in simple words to help you understand.

No Tax on Gift for the Son in India

If the father gives a gift to his son, it is not taxable in the son’s hands in India.

Gifts from “specified relatives” like father, mother, spouse, children, etc., are fully exempt under Indian tax law.

There is no gift tax for the son in India.

The son must keep records of the gift for future reference, like bank transfer details and gift deed if needed.

Father’s Tax Responsibility

For the father, giving a gift is not taxable.

But if the father sells assets to give the money, any gain on that sale will be taxed as capital gains for the father.

For example, if father sells a property to gift money, he will pay tax on the capital gain.

After paying capital gains tax, the balance money given to son is not taxed again.

Repatriation and RBI Compliance

The NRI son must ensure that money received from the father follows RBI (Reserve Bank of India) guidelines.

The money can be sent to the son’s NRE or NRO account.

If the son wants to repatriate the money abroad (send it outside India), he must follow RBI’s repatriation rules.

It is good to use formal banking channels (like wire transfer or cheque) for the gift.

Property Purchase Implications for NRI Son

Once the son gets the money as a gift, he can use it to buy property in India.

There is no restriction on buying residential or commercial property by an NRI in India.

But an NRI cannot buy agricultural land, plantation land, or farmhouses in India.

Property Registration and Gift Records

When the son uses the gift money to buy property, the property must be registered in his name.

It is important to show the source of money used for property purchase to avoid future tax issues.

The father can make a simple “Gift Deed” on stamp paper and register it for extra clarity.

This is not mandatory, but it helps show that the money is a gift and not a loan.

Reporting in India for NRI Son

The son must file his Indian tax return if he has income in India above the basic exemption limit.

The gift itself is not taxable, but any rental income from the property will be taxable in India.

If the son sells the property later, capital gains tax applies on the sale.

Reporting in Foreign Country (for the Son)

The son should check the tax rules in his country of residence.

Some countries tax global income, including gifts received from abroad.

For example, in the USA, the son must report foreign gifts if they cross a threshold.

The son must file the appropriate forms in his resident country to avoid penalties.

Best Practices for Smooth Process

Keep a proper paper trail for the gift: bank statements, gift deed, father’s PAN, and son’s PAN.

Use the banking system (like NEFT, RTGS, wire transfer) for a clear record of the money movement.

If the amount is large, take help from a Chartered Accountant for proper compliance.

Maintain these records for at least 6-8 years for future audits or clarifications.

Impact on Future Wealth Planning

After receiving the gift, the son should consider how the property fits into his overall wealth goals.

If he plans to sell it later, understand the tax implications in both India and his country of residence.

Think about rental income if he wants to rent it out. Rental income in India is taxable.

If the son wants to transfer the property to children in future, plan it carefully to avoid extra taxes.

Alternative Approach to Gift

Instead of giving a lump sum gift, the father could consider gifting part of it now and part later.

This can help manage tax implications and make things easier for father and son.

Some families prefer giving part of the gift as a loan with a clear agreement, especially if it’s a large amount.

If the son plans to stay abroad long term, he can consider holding the money in an NRE account.

Caution for Father’s Future

Father should ensure that gifting large sums does not affect his financial stability.

Father’s future living expenses, healthcare needs, and emergencies must be kept in mind.

It is good to keep an emergency fund and not give away all savings as a gift.

Discuss this with a Certified Financial Planner to balance the gift and father’s security.

Additional Points for the NRI Son

The son should register the property carefully and ensure no legal issues.

Check that the property has clear title, no disputes, and proper registration.

Keep a separate file for the property: sale deed, registration papers, property tax receipts, etc.

If the son rents out the property, he should take help from a local agent or lawyer to manage tenants.

Final Insights

In your case, Mr. Narasimhan, since you are not an NRI, this is for your son’s understanding if he is an NRI.

The gift from father to son is tax-free in India.

The son can use it to buy property in India without any gift tax.

However, it is important to do proper paperwork and follow RBI rules.

Both father and son must ensure that their own financial security is not affected by the gift.

It is wise to take help from a Certified Financial Planner and a tax expert for full compliance.

Keeping clear records will avoid future disputes with tax authorities.

This will also ensure peace of mind for both father and son.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Is it wise to gift my hard earned money to my NRI son to invest in real estate in UAE. I am sceptical on this
Ans: Your scepticism is healthy and actually very necessary. Gifting your hard-earned money to your NRI son for real estate in UAE may look like support, but it comes with serious long-term implications.

Let us evaluate this decision with a 360-degree lens.

Emotional Value vs Financial Value
You love your son. That’s clear.

But love must not override wise decisions.

You spent years earning that money.

You need clarity before letting go of control over it.

Understanding Real Estate in UAE
Real estate in UAE is highly speculative.

Prices are driven by demand from expatriates and global factors.

There is no permanent ownership for foreigners in many areas.

Rental yields can be low and inconsistent.

Real estate is not a liquid asset.

Selling property during urgency may take months or even years.

You may end up gifting money that locks itself away.

Legal & Control Issues in Gifting
Gift to NRI child is permitted under LRS (Liberalised Remittance Scheme).

But once given, you have no legal control over how it is used.

You can’t reclaim the money, even if plans fail.

If your son buys in his name, you can’t access or sell the property.

It’s not like FD or mutual funds where joint holding can give fallback.

What If Things Don’t Go as Planned?
UAE economy is oil and expat driven.

Suppose your son loses his job or plans to move – what happens to the property?

You won’t be able to manage it from India.

Even if he rents it out, managing tenants from a different country is tough.

Real estate is not just buying. It's about upkeep, legal, tenant issues, resale.

Risk to Your Own Retirement
Have you completed your own retirement plan yet?

Do you have Rs 4 to 5 crore retirement safety net in place?

Do you have emergency funds and health funds built?

Are all your goals like daughter’s wedding, family medical fund, travel set aside?

If not, gifting a large sum is like taking oxygen off your own mask first.

Better Alternatives You Can Offer
If your son is trustworthy and you want to help, consider:

Loan instead of gift, with proper documentation.

Partial support, not entire funding.

Ask him to contribute equally or take a loan in UAE.

Support through mutual fund SIPs in his name.

Help him build liquid, growing assets, not locked real estate.

This way, he gains and you are not fully exposed.

Real Estate Is Not a Great Wealth Creator Today
You must avoid the emotional belief that property equals security.

Real estate doesn’t grow consistently.

Mutual funds with active management have outperformed property in last 10 years.

Property also has costs, taxes, repairs, and no regular income.

Mutual funds are far superior for growth, liquidity, and risk control.

Questions You Must Ask Before Gifting
Can I afford to lose this money forever?

Have I written my own financial plan and retirement strategy?

Is my emergency, health, and life cover fully secured?

What if the property fails to generate returns?

Will this affect my peace of mind in old age?

If any of these answers cause hesitation, don’t gift.

Emotional Boundaries in Money
Helping a child is fine.

But giving up your financial independence is not fine.

Children may not understand money the way you do.

If the money is wasted, the emotional scar stays with you, not them.

So act not just with heart, but with eyes open.

Final Insights
You are right to feel unsure. That means you are thinking wisely.

Gift only if:

Your own retirement and future is 100% secure.

You don’t need the money ever again.

Your son has detailed plan, not vague hope.

Property is just a part of a diversified portfolio.

Else, help him partially, not fully. Help with knowledge, not only money.

Build your own peace and dignity in retirement first.

Then give from abundance, not from pressure or guilt.

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

..Read more

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Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |234 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Money
Dear Naveen Sir, I am 55 Years old and have five more years in superannuation. My monthly take home is approx. 6 Lacs PM . I have accumulated 2 Cr. in MF , 1.5 Cr in PF , 1 Cr FD and NPS and LIC put all together will be approx 50 Lacs and payout will start from 2028 onwards. I have just booked one 4 BHK and take home loan which is construction linked plan . Possession will be in 2029. My Daughter and Son are on Marriage age but both are also earning handsomely as they are in 30% bracket of IT . Have parental property approx 1.5 Cr which i will get in due course of the time. Monthly expenses are approx 1 Lacs only . Please suggest the way forward for next 5 Years .....how and where i start investing ....
Ans: Dear Sir
For a comprehensive QPFP level financial planning and retirement assessment we request the following details. These inputs will allow financial planner to prepare an accurate inflation-adjusted roadmap covering risk protection, income stability, investment strategy and long-term financial security.
________________________________________
1. Personal and Family Details
Your age and planned retirement year.
Spouse’s age, working status and future income expectations.
Number of dependents and their financial reliance on you.
Any major medical conditions in the family.
________________________________________
2. Parents’ Health and Financial Dependence
Current health condition of parents.
Do they have their own medical insurance cover.
Sum insured and type of policy.
Any critical illness or pre-existing conditions.
Monthly financial support you provide to them if any.
Expected future medical or caretaker expenses.
________________________________________
3. Income and Cash Flow
Monthly take home income.
Expected increments or bonuses for the next five years.
Monthly household expense structure.
Existing EMIs and financial commitments.
Monthly surplus available for investments.
Any expenses expected to rise due to inflation or lifestyle changes.
________________________________________
4. Home Loan and Liabilities
Sanctioned home loan amount, interest rate and tenure.
Current disbursement status under construction linked plan.
Your plan for EMI servicing and part-prepayment.
Any other loans or financial liabilities.
________________________________________
5. Real Estate Profile
Is this 4 BHK your first home or do you own other properties.
Any rental income from existing properties.
Purpose of the new 4 BHK after retirement for self, parents or children.
Your plan for the parental house. Retain, sell or rent.
Where you plan to settle post retirement.
________________________________________
6. Investment Portfolio
Current mutual fund corpus and category-wise split.
SIP amounts and investment horizon.
PF, EPF, PPF and other retirement scheme balances.
Fixed deposit amounts, maturity periods and ownership structure for DICGC protection.
NPS allocations Tier 1 and Tier 2.
LIC policies with surrender value and maturity year.
Any bonds, NCDs, PMS, private equity or invoice discounting exposure.
________________________________________
7. Emergency Preparedness
Current emergency fund value.
Loan facility available against MF or FD.
Any credit line for medical or sudden expenses.
________________________________________
8. Insurance Protection (Self and Spouse)
Term insurance coverage and policy details.
Health insurance sum assured and insurer.
Top-up or super top-up cover details.
Critical illness and accident cover status.
Adequacy of insurance after accounting for inflation.
________________________________________
9. Children’s Goals and Planning
Are you contributing financially to your children's planning.
Any corpus set aside for their marriage.
Children’s own investment and insurance setup.
Any future goals involving them.
________________________________________
10. Retirement Vision and Income Planning
Expected retirement lifestyle and monthly cost adjusted for inflation.
Your preferred retirement income structure
SWP from mutual funds
Annuity or pension products
PF interest
NPS annuity
Rental income
Plans to monetise or downsize real estate if needed.
Any travel, medical or lifestyle goals post retirement.
________________________________________
11. Estate and Succession Planning
Will availability and last update date.
Nominations across MF, PF, NPS, FD, LIC, demat and bank accounts.
Any instructions for asset distribution.
________________________________________
Next Step
Only Once you share these details, financial planner can prepare a complete five year roadmap covering asset allocation, inflation-adjusted corpus projections, loan strategy, insurance adequacy, medical preparedness, pension and SWP planning, liquidity management and post-retirement income stability.


Disclaimer / Guidance:
The above analysis is generic in nature and based on limited data shared. For accurate projections — including inflation, tax implications, pension structure, and education cost escalation — it is strongly advised to consult a qualified QPFP/CFP or Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD). They can help prepare a comprehensive retirement and goal-based cash flow plan tailored to your unique situation.
Financial planning is not only about returns; it’s about ensuring peace of mind and aligning your money with life goals. A professional planner can help you design a safe, efficient, and realistic roadmap toward your ideal retirement.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
https://members.networkfp.com/member/naveenkumarreddy-vadula-chennai
044-31683550

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Money
Im aged 40 years and my husband is aged 48 years. We have one son aged 8 years and daughter aged 12 years. We both are in business. What should be the ideal corpus to meet their education at the age of 18 years for both children? Present business income we can save Rs.50000 pm
Ans: You are thinking early. That itself is a smart step. Many parents postpone planning and later struggle with loans. You are not in that situation. So appreciate your approach.

You asked about ideal corpus for higher education. Education cost is rising fast. So planning early avoids financial pressure later.

You have two kids. Your daughter is 12. Your son is 8. You have around six years for your daughter and around ten years for your son. With this time frame, you need a proper structured plan.

» Understanding Future Education Cost

Education inflation in India is high. It is increasing year after year. Even professional courses are becoming costly. College fees, hostel fees, books, digital tools and transportation also add cost.

You need to consider this inflation. Higher education cost will not remain at today’s value. It will grow.

So if today a standard undergraduate program costs around a few lakhs, in six to ten years the cost may go much higher. That is why estimating corpus should consider this future cost.

You don’t need exact numbers today. You need a target range to plan. A comfortable range gives clarity.

» Typical Cost Structure for Higher Education

Higher education cost depends on:

– Private or government institution
– Course type
– City or abroad option
– Duration

For engineering, medical, management or technology courses, cost goes higher. For government colleges the cost is lower but seats are limited. Private colleges are more accessible but expensive.

So planning based only on government college assumption may create funding gaps. Planning based on private college range gives safer margin.

» Suggested Corpus for Both Children

For your daughter, considering next six years gap and inflation, a target range should be higher. For your son, you have more time. So his corpus can grow better because compounding works more with time.

For a comfortable education corpus that covers most course possibilities, many families plan for a higher number. It gives flexibility to choose better college without stress.

So you can aim for a larger goal for both children like this:

– Daughter: Target a strong education fund for next six years
– Son: Target a similar or slightly higher fund for the next ten years because future costs may be higher

You may not need the whole amount if your child chooses a less expensive route. But having extra cushion gives peace.

» Your Savings Ability

You mentioned you can save Rs.50000 monthly. That is a strong saving capacity. But this saving should not go entirely to a single goal. You will also need future retirement planning, emergency fund and other life goals.

Still, a reasonable portion of this amount can be allocated towards education planning. Some families divide savings based on urgency and time horizon. Since daughter’s goal is near, she may need a more stable allocation.

Your son’s goal is long term. So his part can stay in growth asset for longer.

» Choosing the Right Investment Style

A long term goal like your son’s education needs equity exposure. Equity gives better potential for long term growth. It beats inflation better than fixed deposits.

But for your daughter, pure equity can create risk because goal is nearer. Market fluctuations may affect final corpus. So she needs a balanced asset mix.

So investment approach must be different for both.

» Asset Allocation Strategy

For your daughter with six year horizon:

– Higher allocation to a balanced type category
– Some allocation to equity through diversified categories
– Step down equity allocation in final three years

This structure protects capital in later years.

For your son with ten year horizon:

– Higher equity allocation at start
– Continue systematic investing
– Reduce risk allocation gradually closer to goal period

This helps growth and protection.

» Avoiding Wrong Investment Products

Parents often buy traditional insurance plans or children policies for education. These policies give low returns. They lock money and reduce wealth creation potential.

So avoid purely insurance based products for education goals. Insurance is separate. Investment is separate. This separation creates clarity and better growth.

If you already hold any ULIP or investment insurance product, it may not be efficient. Only if you have such policies then you may review and consider if surrender is needed and reinvest in mutual funds. If you don’t have such policies, no need to worry.

» Role of Actively Managed Mutual Funds

For long term goals, actively managed mutual funds offer better flexibility and expert management. They are designed to outperform inflation. A regular plan through a mutual fund distributor with CFP support helps with guidance. They also track your goal and give advice in volatile phases.

Direct funds look cheaper on expense ratio. But they lack advisory support. Long term investors often make emotional mistakes in direct investing. They stop SIPs or switch wrong schemes. So advisory backed investing avoids costly behaviour mistakes.

Index funds look simple and low cost. But they only follow the market. They don’t protect during corrections. There is no strategy or research. Actively managed funds adjust holdings based on market research and valuation. For life goals like education, smoother growth and strategy are needed.

So regular plan with advisory support helps you avoid unnecessary emotional decisions.

» Importance of Systematic Investing

A fixed monthly SIP gives discipline. It also benefits from market volatility. When markets fall, SIP buys more units. In rise phase, the value grows.

A structured SIP helps both goals. For daughter, SIP should shift towards low volatility funds slowly. For son, SIP can run longer in growth-oriented funds before reducing risk.

Your contribution amount may change based on future business income. But start now with whatever comfortable.

» Protecting the Goal With Insurance

Since you both are running business, income stability may fluctuate. So ensuring life security is important. Term insurance is the right option. It is low cost and high coverage.

This ensures child’s education is protected even if income stops.

Medical insurance also matters. A medical emergency should not break education savings.

» Reviewing the Plan Periodically

A fixed plan is good. But markets and life conditions change. So review once every twelve months.

Points to review:

– Are SIPs running on time?
– Is allocation suitable for goal year?
– Any need to shift from equity to safer category?
– Any tax planning advantage needed?

But avoid checking portfolio every week. Frequent checking creates stress.

» Education Goal Withdrawal Plan

As the daughter’s goal comes close:

– Stop SIP in high risk category
– Start shifting profit to debt type fund over systematic transfers
– Keep final year money in safe option like liquid category

Same formula should be applied for your son when his goal approaches.

This protects against last minute market crash.

» Emotional Side of Planning

Education is an emotional goal. Parents feel pressure to provide the best. But planning removes fear.

Saving consistently gives confidence. Having a plan helps avoid panic decisions. It also brings clarity of future expense.

This planning sets financial discipline for your children as well.

» Taxation Factors

When redeeming funds for education, tax rules will apply. For equity fund withdrawals, long term capital gains above exemption are taxed at 12.5% as per current rules. For short term within one year, tax is higher.

For debt investments, gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

So plan the withdrawal timing to reduce tax.

Tax planning near goal year is very important.

» What You Can Do Next

– Start separate investments for each child
– Use SIP for disciplined investing
– Choose growth-oriented asset for son
– Choose balanced and phased investment approach for daughter
– Review allocation yearly
– Protect the goal with insurance cover

Following these steps helps achieve the target corpus smoothly.

» Finally

You are already thinking in the right direction. You have time for both goals. You also have a good saving frequency. So you can build a strong education fund without stress.

Your children’s future will be secure if you continue with a structured and disciplined plan.

Stay consistent with your savings. Make investment choices carefully. Review and adjust calmly over time.

This journey will help you reach your ideal corpus for both children.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 09, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, Regarding recent turmoils in global economic situation and trends, Trump's tariffs, relentless FII selling, should I be worried about midcap, large&midcap funds that I have in my mutual fund portfolio? I have been investing from last 4 years and want to invest for next 10 years only. And then plan to retire and move to SWP. I'm targeting a 10%-11% return eventually. And I don't want to make lower returns than FD's. Is now the time to switch from midcap, laege&midcap to conservative, large, flexi funds? Please suggest.
Ans: You have asked the right question at the right time. Many investors panic only after damage happens. You are thinking ahead. That is a strong habit.

You also have clarity about your goal, time horizon and expected returns. This mindset will help you handle market noise better.

» Current Market Sentiment and Global Events
The global economy is seeing stress. There are trade decisions, tariff announcements, and geopolitical issues. Foreign institutional investors are selling. News flow looks negative.
These events can cause short term volatility. Midcaps and small caps usually react faster during these phases. Even large caps show some stress.
But markets have seen many crises in the past. Elections, governments, conflicts, pandemics, financial crashes and tariff wars are not new events. Markets always recover over time.
Short term movements are unpredictable. Long term wealth creation depends more on patience and asset allocation.

» Your Time Horizon Matters More Than Market Noise
You have been investing for 4 years. You plan to invest for the next 10 years. That means your remaining maturity is long term.
For a 10 year goal, equity is suitable. Midcap and large and midcap funds are designed for long term investors. They are not meant for short periods.
If your time horizon is short, it is valid to worry about downside risk. But with 10 more years ahead, temporary volatility is normal and expected.
Short term fear should not drive long term decisions.

» Should You Switch to Conservative or Large Cap Now?
Switching based on panic or temporary news is not ideal. When you switch now, you lock the current lower value permanently. You also miss the recovery phase.
Large cap and flexi cap funds offer stability. But they also deliver lower growth potential during bull runs compared to midcaps.
Midcaps usually fall deeper when markets drop. But they also recover faster and often outperform in the next cycle.
Switching now may protect emotions but may reduce long term wealth creation.

» Target Return of 10% to 11% is Reasonable
Aiming for 10%-11% return with a 10 year investment horizon is realistic.
Fixed deposits now offer around 6.5% to 7.5%. After tax, the return becomes lower.
Equity funds have potential to generate better returns compared to FD over a long tenure. Midcap allocation contributes to this return potential.
So moving fully to conservative funds may reduce your ability to beat inflation comfortably.

» Impact of FII Selling
FII selling creates pressure on the market. But domestic investors including SIP flows are strong today. India is seeing strong structural growth.
Retail investors, mutual funds and systematic flows act as stabilizers.
FII selling is temporary and cyclical. It is not a permanent trend.

» Economic Slowdowns Create Opportunities
Corrections make valuations reasonable. This can benefit long term SIP investors.
During downturns, your SIP buys more units. During recovery, these units grow.
This mechanism works best in volatile categories like midcaps.
Stopping SIP or switching during dips blocks this benefit.

» Midcap Cycles Are Natural
Midcap funds move in cycles. They have phases of strong growth followed by correction. The correction phase is painful but temporary.
Every cycle contributes to future upside. Staying invested during all phases is important.
Many investors exit during downturns and enter again after markets rise. This behaviour produces lower returns than the mutual fund performance.

» Role of Portfolio Balance
Instead of exiting fully, review your asset allocation. You can hold a mix of:
– Large cap
– Flexi cap
– Midcap
– Large and midcap
This gives stability and growth potential.
Midcap should not be more than a suitable percentage for your age and risk tolerance. Since you are 36, some meaningful midcap exposure is fine.
If midcap exposure is very high, you can reduce slightly and move that portion to flexi cap or large cap funds slowly through a systematic transfer. Do not do a lump sum shift during panic.

» Behavioural Discipline Matters More Than Fund Selection
Market cycles test investor patience. Consistency in SIP and holding through declines builds wealth.
Most investors do not fail due to bad funds. They fail due to fear-based decisions.
Your approach should be systematic, not emotional.

» Do Not Compare with FD Frequently
FD gives predictable return. Equity gives volatile but higher potential return.
Comparing FD returns every time the market falls leads to wrong decisions.
FD is for safety. Equity is for growth. They serve different purposes.
Your retirement plan and SWP plan depends on growth. Only equity can provide that growth.

» Should You Change Strategy Because Retirement is 10 Years Away?
Now is not the time to exit growth segments. You are still in accumulation phase.
When you reach the last 3 years before retirement, then reducing equity exposure step by step is required.
At that stage, a glide path helps preserve gains. That time has not yet come.
So continue building wealth now.

» Market Timings and Shifts Rarely Work
Many investors try to predict markets. Most of them fail.
Switching based on news looks logical. But news and market timing rarely align.
Staying consistent with your asset allocation gives better results than frequent changes.

» Portfolio Review Approach
You can follow these steps:
– Continue SIPs in all categories
– Avoid stopping based on short term fears
– If midcap allocation is above comfort level, shift only small portion gradually
– Review allocation once in a year, not every month
This structured approach prevents emotional decisions.

» Tax Rules Matter When Switching
Switching between equity funds involves tax impact.
Short term capital gains tax is higher.
Long term capital gains above the exemption limit are taxed at 12.5%.
Switching without purpose can create avoidable tax leakage.
This reduces your compounding.

» When to Worry?
You need to reconsider only if:
– Your goal horizon becomes short
– Your risk appetite changes
– Your allocation becomes unbalanced
Not because of headlines or temporary corrections.

» Your Retirement SWP Plan
Once your accumulation phase is completed, you can shift to:
– Conservative hybrid
– Flexi cap
– Balanced allocation
This will support a smoother SWP.
But this transition should happen only closer to the retirement start date. Not now.

» SIP is Designed for Turbulent Years
SIP works best when markets are volatile. The hardest years for emotions are the most powerful for compounding.
Your long term discipline is your strategy.
Do not interrupt it.

» What You Should Do Now
– Stay invested
– Continue SIP
– Avoid panic selling
– Review allocation once a year
– Use a steady plan, not reactions
This will help you reach your target return range.

» Finally
You are on the right path. The current volatility is temporary. Your 10 year horizon gives enough time for recovery and growth.
Switching right now based on fear may reduce your future returns. Staying invested and continuing SIPs is the sensible approach.
Your goal of better return than FD is realistic. Equity can deliver that with patience.
Stay calm and systematic.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |6740 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

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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