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Ulhas

Ulhas Joshi  |280 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Fund Expert - Answered on Feb 15, 2024

With over 16 years of experience in the mutual fund industry, Ulhas Joshi has helped numerous clients choose the right funds and create wealth.
Prior to joining RankMF as CEO, he was vice president (sales) at IDBI Asset Management Ltd.
Joshi holds an MBA in marketing from Barkatullah University, Bhopal.... more
Prabhakkar Question by Prabhakkar on Jan 31, 2024Hindi
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Hi Please let me know about PGIM small cap find and sundaram large cap fund for long term investment for a period of 15 years?

Ans: Hello Prabhakkar & thanks for writing to me. The funds you quote are good funds and you can consider investing in them. If you state your objectives, risk appetite & other details, I may recommend other schemes.
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 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 14, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir, pl ignore our previous question. Sorry. Pl advise on below i am 45 yrs old & want to take parag parikh flexi cap for long terms (approx 15-20yrs). Shall i take mutual fund or SIP for the same. I want to invest either 1.00 lacs lumsum amount in MF or ?5000 p.m. in SIP. Which option shall i chose. Pl advise Also i invested in the following 1) MF: amount ?50000 in aditya birla sunlife equity hybrid 95 fund growth & HDFC flexicap fund growth (for long term) 2) Mf: lumsum amount ?100000 in nippon India large cap fund growth 3) SIP: HDFC retirement saving fund equity plan-regular plan- growth @ ?10000/-p.m. & aditya birla sun life digital india fund-growth-regular plan Also advise on above mf/sip whether is it good for long term
Ans: Given your investment horizon of 15-20 years and your preference for Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund, here's my advice:

Investment Method:
For a long-term horizon like yours, both lump sum investment and SIP have their advantages.
Lump sum investment entails putting in a larger amount upfront, potentially benefiting from market growth over time.
SIP, on the other hand, allows you to invest regularly, benefit from rupee cost averaging, and mitigate the impact of market volatility.
Choice between Lump Sum and SIP:
Considering the current market conditions and the potential for volatility, SIP can be a prudent choice.
By spreading your investments over time, SIPs can help smoothen the impact of market fluctuations and reduce timing risk.
You can start with an SIP of Rs. 5,000 per month in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund and increase the amount gradually over time, leveraging the power of compounding.
Regarding your existing investments:

Aditya Birla Sunlife Equity Hybrid 95 Fund Growth and HDFC Flexicap Fund Growth:
These funds have the potential to provide balanced growth by investing in a mix of equity and debt instruments.
Given your long-term horizon, they can be suitable choices for wealth accumulation.
Nippon India Large Cap Fund Growth:
Large-cap funds like these tend to offer stability and steady growth potential over the long term.
It can serve as a core holding in your portfolio, providing exposure to established companies with strong fundamentals.
HDFC Retirement Saving Fund Equity Plan-Regular Plan-Growth and Aditya Birla Sun Life Digital India Fund-Growth-Regular Plan:
These funds cater to specific themes (retirement saving and digital India), which can add diversification to your portfolio.
Given your long-term horizon, they can complement your existing investments, provided you have a high-risk tolerance and believe in the long-term growth potential of these sectors.
Remember to regularly review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed based on changes in your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance tailored to your individual needs and objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 14, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, What is your view on these three mutual funds 1. ICICI VALUE DISCOVERY FUND 2. ICICI INDIA OPPORTUNITIES FUND 2. ICICI MULTI ASSET FUND I would like to do a lump sum investment with a time period of 10 years.
Ans: Considering a lump sum investment in mutual funds for a 10-year horizon is a prudent approach towards wealth accumulation. Let's delve into the characteristics of the funds you've mentioned:

ICICI Value Discovery Fund: This fund follows a value investing approach, focusing on identifying undervalued stocks with the potential for long-term growth. It aims to create wealth by investing in companies trading at a discount to their intrinsic value. Given its value-oriented strategy, this fund may appeal to investors seeking opportunities in fundamentally strong companies at attractive valuations.
ICICI India Opportunities Fund: This fund typically invests across sectors and market capitalizations, aiming to capitalize on growth opportunities presented by the Indian market. It follows a diversified approach, allowing flexibility to invest in companies with high growth potential. Investors with a long-term horizon seeking exposure to a diversified portfolio of Indian equities may find this fund suitable.
ICICI Multi Asset Fund: This fund offers diversification across multiple asset classes such as equity, debt, and gold, aiming to optimize risk-adjusted returns. It provides investors with a one-stop solution for asset allocation across different market conditions. Investors looking for a balanced portfolio with exposure to various asset classes may consider this fund for their investment needs.
Before making any investment decision, it's essential to assess your risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon. While these funds may offer growth potential over a 10-year period, past performance is not indicative of future results. Conduct thorough research, consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner, and ensure your investment aligns with your overall financial plan and risk profile.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 15, 2024

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My name is Shankar. I' m investing 10,000 Per Month thru SIP. One is in Motilal Oswal Midcap 30 Fund for 5000. Second one is in SBI Countra Find for 5000 each month in phone pe I had invested. It's been two month I had started. First my concern is here can I go for these two funds for longer period like 10 years, I need suggestion for that. Second one is how much return can I expect for 10 years. I am planning to start one more mutual fund for mid cap for 5000 I need to know which fund is best for long run.
Ans: Dear Shankar,

Firstly, congratulations on taking a significant step towards your financial goals by starting your investments. It is heartening to see individuals like you take proactive steps towards securing their future.

You mentioned investing Rs 5,000 per month in the Motilal Oswal Midcap 30 Fund and another Rs 5,000 in the SBI Contra Fund. Both funds have their merits, but let's delve deeper to assess if they align with your long-term goals.

Evaluating Your Current Funds
Motilal Oswal Midcap 30 Fund

This fund focuses on mid-sized companies with potential for growth. Mid-cap funds can be quite rewarding, especially in a growing economy like India. However, they also carry higher risk compared to large-cap funds. It's commendable that you are willing to take on some risk for potentially higher returns.

SBI Contra Fund

This fund follows a contrarian strategy, investing in undervalued stocks. This approach can be beneficial during market corrections and downturns, as these stocks may bounce back strongly. It provides a good balance to your portfolio by diversifying your investment style.

Long-Term Viability
For a ten-year investment horizon, these funds could be suitable, provided you are prepared for the market's ups and downs. Long-term investments in equity mutual funds generally yield better returns, as they smooth out short-term volatility. Staying invested for ten years can help you benefit from compounding and market growth.

Expected Returns
Estimating returns can be tricky as they depend on various factors, including market conditions, economic growth, and fund management. Historically, mid-cap funds have delivered 12-15% annual returns over the long term. Contrarian funds, while less predictable, can also yield substantial returns if their strategy pays off.

However, it is crucial to remember that past performance does not guarantee future results. Keeping realistic expectations and staying invested through market cycles is key.

Adding a New Mid-Cap Fund
Your interest in starting another Rs 5,000 monthly SIP in a mid-cap fund is a wise decision, given your long-term horizon. Mid-cap funds can be an excellent addition to your portfolio, offering potential for higher growth.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Since you are considering mid-cap funds, it is essential to highlight the benefits of actively managed funds over index funds. Actively managed funds can adapt to market conditions and invest in promising companies, whereas index funds simply replicate a market index. This flexibility can lead to better performance, especially in the mid-cap segment where stock selection is crucial.

Recommendations for Mid-Cap Funds
Selecting the right fund requires thorough research. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a mid-cap fund:

Fund Performance: Look at the fund’s performance over different market cycles.
Fund Manager’s Track Record: An experienced and skilled fund manager can make a significant difference.
Expense Ratio: Lower expense ratios can improve net returns.
Fund House Reputation: Choose funds from well-established and reputable fund houses.
Considering these factors will help you make an informed decision. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can also provide personalized advice based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

General Investment Tips
Diversification
Diversification is crucial to manage risk. Your current investments in mid-cap and contrarian funds provide a good mix. However, you might want to consider adding large-cap or multi-cap funds in the future for better balance.

Regular Review
Periodic review of your investments is essential. Market conditions and personal financial goals can change, requiring adjustments to your investment strategy.

Staying Informed
Keep yourself informed about market trends and economic indicators. This knowledge can help you make better investment decisions.

Emotional Discipline
It’s easy to get swayed by market volatility. Maintaining emotional discipline and staying invested during market downturns is vital for long-term success.

Potential Pitfalls of Direct Funds
Direct funds might seem attractive due to lower expense ratios, but they have some disadvantages. Direct funds require continuous monitoring and management, which can be time-consuming and challenging. Investing through a CFP can provide professional management, regular reviews, and tailored advice, ensuring your investments align with your goals.

Final Insights
Your current investment strategy is promising, with a good mix of mid-cap and contrarian funds. These funds have the potential to deliver substantial returns over a ten-year period, provided you stay invested and maintain discipline.

Starting another mid-cap fund is a prudent decision, given your long-term horizon. Carefully selecting an actively managed mid-cap fund can further enhance your portfolio's growth potential.

Remember to diversify, review your investments regularly, and consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice. Your commitment to investing Rs 10,000 monthly through SIPs is commendable, and with the right strategy, you can 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 Mar 04, 2025

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Iss time pe Flexicap,Midcap and Small Cap mutual funds kisme lumsum investment karna chahiye..?
Ans: Investing in flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap mutual funds through lump sum requires careful analysis. Timing, market conditions, and personal financial goals should be considered before investing.

Understanding Market Conditions
Flexi-cap funds: These funds invest across large, mid, and small-cap stocks. Fund managers have the flexibility to shift allocation based on market trends.

Mid-cap funds: These funds invest in mid-sized companies. They have higher growth potential than large caps but come with more volatility.

Small-cap funds: These funds invest in smaller companies. They offer high return potential but carry the highest risk.

Current Market Scenario: Mid-cap and small-cap stocks have seen strong rallies. Investing through a systematic transfer plan (STP) may be better than a lump sum.

Best Approach for Lump Sum Investment
Avoid investing the entire amount at once. Markets can be volatile, and a sudden drop can impact your returns.

Use a systematic transfer plan (STP). Park the lump sum in a liquid fund and transfer it gradually into equity funds.

Diversify across market caps. Do not invest only in mid-cap and small-cap funds. Flexi-cap funds provide balanced exposure.

Check valuations before investing. If mid-cap and small-cap indices are trading at high valuations, wait for corrections.

Consider your risk tolerance. Mid-cap and small-cap funds are volatile. Invest only if you can stay invested for at least 7-10 years.

Which Category is Suitable for You?
If you want stable growth with lower risk: Invest in flexi-cap funds.

If you can handle moderate risk and aim for higher returns: Invest in mid-cap funds.

If you have a high-risk appetite and a long-term horizon: Invest in small-cap funds.

If markets are at high valuations: Invest in balanced advantage or hybrid funds instead of pure equity funds.

Final Insights
Investing in mid-cap and small-cap funds requires patience. Returns may be volatile in the short term.

A systematic transfer plan (STP) is better than lump sum investment in volatile markets.

Diversify across flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds based on your risk profile.

Review your investments every year and rebalance if needed.

With the right strategy, your investment can grow steadily over time.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

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

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

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

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

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

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

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

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

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

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

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

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

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

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

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

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

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

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

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

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

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

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

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

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

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

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

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

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

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

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

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

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

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

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

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

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

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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