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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8600 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 31, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Sep 19, 2023Hindi
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I am planning to do sip of Rs 7000 each for next 20 years in Mutual funds of Mirae Asset Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF Fund of Fund and Mirae Asset Global Electric & Autonomous Vehicles ETFs Fund of Fund .Pls advise

Ans: Evaluating Investment Choices
Investing in Mutual Funds can be a great way to grow your wealth over the long term. However, it's important to choose the right funds based on your financial goals and risk appetite.

Understanding Sectoral Funds
Sectoral funds, like the ones you mentioned focusing on Artificial Intelligence & Technology and Electric & Autonomous Vehicles, are more focused on specific industries or sectors. While these funds can offer high returns during favorable market conditions, they also come with higher risks.

Risks Associated with Sectoral Funds
Sectoral funds are highly sensitive to the performance of the specific sector they are invested in. Any adverse developments in that sector can significantly impact the fund's performance. Additionally, these funds may be more volatile compared to diversified funds, which invest across multiple sectors.

Benefits of Diversified Funds
Diversified funds, on the other hand, spread their investments across various sectors and industries. This diversification helps reduce the impact of any adverse events in a particular sector on the overall fund performance. Diversified funds tend to be more stable and less volatile compared to sectoral funds.

Investment Strategy Recommendation
Considering your investment horizon of 20 years and the risk associated with sectoral funds, it's advisable to diversify your investments. Instead of allocating the entire SIP amount to sectoral funds, consider investing in a combination of diversified equity funds.

Building a Balanced Portfolio
A balanced portfolio typically consists of a mix of equity, debt, and other asset classes. By diversifying across different sectors and asset classes, you can reduce overall portfolio risk while potentially maximizing returns.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Regularly review your portfolio's performance and rebalance if necessary. Rebalancing involves adjusting the allocation of your investments to maintain the desired asset allocation based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Conclusion
While sectoral funds can offer attractive returns, they also come with higher risks. Diversifying your investments across multiple sectors and asset classes is key to building a resilient portfolio that can weather market fluctuations. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to develop a personalized investment strategy that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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  |8600 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 19, 2023Hindi
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I am planning to do Sip of Rs 7000 each for next 20 years in Mirae Asset Global Electric & Autonomous Vehicles ETFs Fund of Fund and Mirae Asset Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF Fund of Fund .Pls advise
Ans: Strategic SIP Allocation in ETFs for 20 Years: Considerations and Recommendations

Investing in Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) can be a strategic approach to building wealth over the long term. However, it's essential to understand the implications, especially when investing in sector-specific funds like Mirae Asset Global Electric & Autonomous Vehicles ETFs Fund of Fund and Mirae Asset Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF Fund of Fund.

Understanding Sector Funds and Their Perils

Sector-specific funds, such as those focused on electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and technology, offer targeted exposure to specific industries. While they may seem enticing due to potential high returns, they come with inherent risks:

High Volatility: Sector funds are susceptible to fluctuations in the particular industry they track. Any adverse developments in the sector can lead to significant volatility and potential losses.

Lack of Diversification: Sector funds are concentrated in a single industry or theme, resulting in limited diversification. This concentration amplifies the impact of adverse events within the sector on the overall portfolio.

Cyclical Nature: Sector performance is cyclical, influenced by various economic and market factors. Investing solely in sector funds exposes investors to the cyclicality of the chosen industry, which may not always align with broader market trends.

Recommended Approach for SIP Allocation

While investing Rs. 7000 each month in Mirae Asset Global Electric & Autonomous Vehicles ETFs Fund of Fund and Mirae Asset Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF Fund of Fund for the next 20 years may seem appealing, it's crucial to consider the risks associated with sector funds.

Diversification is Key: Instead of solely focusing on sector-specific funds, consider diversifying your investment across a broader range of asset classes and sectors. Diversification helps mitigate risk by spreading investments across different industries and geographies.

Consider a Core-Satellite Approach: Adopt a core-satellite approach by allocating a significant portion of your portfolio to diversified equity funds or ETFs that provide exposure to the overall market. Use sector funds as satellite investments to complement your core holdings.

Regular Monitoring and Review: Continuously monitor the performance of your investments and periodically review your portfolio's asset allocation. If sector-specific funds become overweight due to market movements, rebalance your portfolio to maintain diversification.

Consultation with a Certified Financial Planner: Seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you devise a well-rounded investment strategy aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. A CFP can provide personalized advice and recommend suitable investment options based on your individual circumstances.

Final Considerations

While sector funds offer the potential for high returns, they also come with elevated risks. It's essential to strike a balance between growth potential and risk management by diversifying your investment portfolio across various asset classes and sectors.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8600 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 30, 2024

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I am planning to invest 10,000 per month as SIP, i already invest 2000 per month in Mirae Asset Large Cap, SBI Small cap & Parag Parikh Flexi Cap
Ans: Portfolio Expansion Strategy

Expanding your investment portfolio with an additional SIP of Rs 10,000 per month is a prudent step towards long-term wealth creation. Let's evaluate how to best allocate this amount.

Current Portfolio Review

Your existing SIP investments in Mirae Asset Large Cap, SBI Small Cap, and Parag Parikh Flexi Cap demonstrate a balanced approach across different market segments. This diversification helps mitigate risk and capture growth opportunities.

Identifying New Investment Avenues

Given your current portfolio composition, here's a strategic approach to allocate the additional Rs 10,000 SIP:

Diversification:

Aim to further diversify your portfolio across different fund categories to spread risk and enhance potential returns.
Consider allocating a portion of the new SIP amount to funds with exposure to sectors or themes that complement your existing holdings.
Risk Management:

Assess your risk tolerance and investment horizon to determine the appropriate allocation to different asset classes.
Ensure that the new funds selected align with your risk profile and long-term financial goals.
Research and Selection:

Conduct thorough research or seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner to identify suitable funds that match your investment objectives.
Look for funds with a consistent track record of performance, experienced fund managers, and robust investment processes.
Asset Allocation:

Maintain a balanced asset allocation strategy that aligns with your risk appetite and financial objectives.
Allocate the new SIP amount across various fund categories such as large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and thematic funds based on your risk-return preferences.
Regular Monitoring:

Regularly monitor the performance of your portfolio and the individual funds to ensure they remain in line with your investment goals.
Rebalance the portfolio periodically to realign asset allocation and mitigate any deviations from the desired investment strategy.
Conclusion

Expanding your SIP investments by Rs 10,000 per month presents an opportunity to further diversify your portfolio and potentially enhance long-term wealth accumulation. By adopting a disciplined approach to research, selection, and monitoring, you can build a well-rounded investment portfolio that aligns with your financial objectives and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8600 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2025
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Hello Sir I am 46 years age working in central govt my current salary is 88k in hand with nps corpus of 30 lacs .i have wasted about 15 years of job period in which my only investment was lic of amount 8 lacs which will mature on 2027. I have married lately in my 40s and now i have 3 years old son.i have tried to become disciplined now and in these 2020 to till date purchased gold ornaments of Rs 25 lacs. Sir i have a question whether i should go for UPS or stay in NPS and i have no other investments. I live in my ancestral house with my family. Please suggest.
Ans: You’ve shown real commitment by becoming disciplined in recent years.
Let’s now create a 360-degree plan to secure your financial future.

Your Current Financial Profile
Age: 46 years

Employment: Central Government

Monthly in-hand salary: Rs. 88,000

NPS corpus: Rs. 30 lakhs

LIC investment: Rs. 8 lakhs (matures in 2027)

Gold bought from 2020 till now: Rs. 25 lakhs

Owns ancestral home; no housing rent or EMI burden

Married late; has 3-year-old son

No other investments currently

You have built a strong NPS corpus.
You also have gold and an LIC policy.
But your asset allocation is unbalanced.
It needs more diversification for stability and growth.

Understanding NPS and the New UPS Option
Government employees now have the choice to move from NPS to UPS.
This switch is optional and available for a limited time.

Let’s compare them carefully before any decision.

NPS – National Pension System
Pension is based on market performance

No assured income in retirement

Allows investment choice in equity and debt

Gives tax benefits under multiple sections

Offers flexibility but comes with market risk

NPS is good for growth but lacks guaranteed pension.
Returns depend on fund performance.
Pension amount at retirement is not fixed.
You will need to buy annuity at the end.
But annuity returns are generally low.
Also, annuity income is taxable.

UPS – Unified Pension Scheme (New Option)
Offers guaranteed pension after retirement

Pension amount is fixed at 50% of average last salary

Needs at least 25 years of service

Government will contribute more than under NPS

Gives peace of mind with predictable income

UPS gives financial stability in retirement.
It is not linked to market returns.
But you lose the flexibility and market growth of NPS.
You also don’t have control over your retirement corpus.
It may fall short of inflation-adjusted needs.

Which is Better for You?
You are 46 now.
So, you may have already completed more than 20 years of service.
If your qualifying service is 25 years, you can choose UPS.

Choose UPS if:

You want assured income in retirement

You are uncomfortable with market risks

You don’t want to manage investments post-retirement

Stay with NPS if:

You want growth potential with flexibility

You are okay with variable pension income

You are willing to plan annuity and withdrawals

Since you are already in NPS with Rs. 30 lakh corpus,
you should weigh the impact of switching carefully.
You can’t reverse it once opted.
Compare estimated pension under UPS
with possible pension from NPS corpus.

About the LIC Policy
You mentioned LIC worth Rs. 8 lakhs maturing in 2027.
You didn’t specify if it is term or endowment.

If it is an endowment plan, returns will be very low.

Consider surrendering the policy post-maturity.
Reinvest the maturity amount into mutual funds
through a Certified Financial Planner and MFD.

Avoid mixing insurance and investment.

Over-Exposure to Gold: A Concern
You’ve accumulated Rs. 25 lakhs worth of gold.

That’s a very high allocation to a single asset.

Gold does not give regular income.
It doesn’t beat inflation in the long term.
Also, jewellery has making charges and low resale value.
Liquidity is also limited compared to financial assets.

You may retain some portion as family reserve.
But avoid fresh investment in gold.
Avoid considering gold as your core long-term asset.

Create an Emergency Fund
You have a dependent child and only one income.
Maintain an emergency fund of 6 months’ expenses.

Keep it in a liquid fund or savings account.
This will help during medical or job emergencies.

Plan for Child’s Education
Your son is only 3 years old.
You have 15 years before his higher education.

Start a SIP now for his future.
Use a diversified mutual fund with long-term potential.

As he grows, reduce equity exposure gradually.

Create a dedicated portfolio only for education.
Don’t mix it with other goals.

Start SIP in Mutual Funds for Growth
Mutual funds offer good diversification and professional management.
Avoid direct funds, especially if you lack expertise.

Regular funds with support of CFP and MFD
offer hand-holding, periodic review, and behavioural support.

Direct funds lack personal guidance.
You may end up choosing unsuitable schemes.

Investing through an MFD with CFP credential
brings strategy, discipline, and peace of mind.

Avoid index funds.
They just follow the market blindly.
They don’t protect during market fall.

Actively managed mutual funds are better.
They aim for alpha returns and are guided by research.

Retirement Planning Must Start Now
You have only around 14 years left before retirement.

Depending only on UPS/NPS will not be enough.

You need an additional retirement corpus
to handle inflation and rising medical costs.

Start a separate SIP only for retirement.

This will help supplement your pension.

If you retire at 60 and live till 85,
your retirement will last 25 years.

Plan well in advance to avoid dependence later.

Do a Monthly Budgeting Exercise
Your current in-hand salary is Rs. 88,000.
You can still start small SIPs with Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000.

Track expenses.
Avoid unnecessary purchases.
Gold buying can be stopped.

Assign money towards education, retirement, and emergency fund.

Check for Existing Insurance
Check if you have life cover.
If not, take a pure term insurance plan.

This will secure your son’s future.
Also take family health insurance.

Medical bills can wipe out savings.

Do Not Depend on Physical Assets Only
Gold is not income-producing.
House is for living, not for income.

You need financial assets for retirement cash flows.

Create a financial asset base now
through mutual funds and NPS.

Final Insights
You have taken a step in the right direction.
Your gold assets and NPS corpus give a base.

But you need to balance and grow wisely.
Don’t depend only on government pension.
Start SIPs for retirement and child’s future.

Don’t lock money in low-return products.
Seek professional support for fund selection and goal tracking.

Make every rupee count from now on.
That’s how you can create financial freedom in retirement.

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

...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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