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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 30, 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 - Jun 16, 2023Hindi
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Hi Sir, Can you please provide your views on these mutual funds in terms of continuing the SIP ( Rs 3000 each), holding it or switching to alternate ones. I have a horizon of 7-10+ years and my age is 48. AXIS BLUECHIP FUND, PARAG PARIKH FLEXI CAP FUND, HDFC FLEXICAP FUND, SUNDARAM LARGE AND MID CAP FUND, HDFC SMALL CAP FUND, HDFC MID-CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND, EDELWEISS BANKING AND PSU DEBT FUND, HDFC TOP 100 FUND, UTI VALUE OPPORTUNITIES FUND, KOTAK SMALL CAP FUND, ICICI Prudential Nifty 50 Index Fund - All MFs are with growth option

Ans: Evaluating Mutual Fund SIP Portfolio: Recommendations for Continued Investment
Your current mutual fund SIP portfolio demonstrates a well-diversified approach, catering to your long-term investment horizon. Let's assess each fund's performance and potential for the future, considering your age, investment horizon, and financial goals.

Axis Bluechip Fund

This fund focuses on large-cap companies, providing stability and growth potential.
Its consistent performance and adherence to quality stocks make it suitable for continued investment.
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund

Known for its diversified portfolio across market caps and sectors, offering flexibility.
Its strong track record and prudent management suggest it's worth holding for the long term.
HDFC FlexiCap Fund

A versatile fund with the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions.
Its robust performance history and well-managed portfolio make it suitable for continued investment.
Sundaram Large and Mid Cap Fund

This fund aims to capitalize on opportunities across large and mid-cap segments.
While it has delivered decent returns, investors may consider monitoring its performance closely due to its relatively shorter track record.
HDFC Small Cap Fund

Investing in small-cap companies with high growth potential but increased volatility.
Given your horizon, consider holding for its growth prospects but monitor its performance regularly.
HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund

Focused on mid-cap companies with potential for significant growth over the long term.
Considering your horizon, it's advisable to continue with SIPs but monitor its performance diligently.
Edelweiss Banking and PSU Debt Fund

A debt fund offering stability and regular income, suitable for diversification.
Given your equity-heavy portfolio, holding this fund can provide stability and balance.
HDFC Top 100 Fund

Invests in top 100 companies, offering stability and growth potential.
Its consistent performance and adherence to quality stocks make it a suitable long-term investment option.
UTI Value Opportunities Fund

Invests in undervalued stocks with growth potential, suitable for long-term investors.
Its contrarian approach can add value to your portfolio over time, making it worth continuing SIPs.
Kotak Small Cap Fund

Focused on small-cap companies with high growth potential but increased risk.
Given your horizon, consider continuing SIPs but monitor its performance closely due to volatility.
ICICI Prudential Nifty 50 Index Fund

Tracks the Nifty 50 index, offering diversification across top Indian companies.
While index funds provide stability, actively managed funds may offer potential for higher returns over the long term.
Active vs. Passive Management:
While you've included both actively managed mutual funds and index funds (ETFs) in your portfolio, it's important to understand the differences between the two. Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market through active stock selection and portfolio management, while index funds passively track a specific index's performance.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds:
Actively managed funds offer the potential for higher returns compared to index funds, especially during market inefficiencies or when skilled fund managers can identify lucrative investment opportunities. Additionally, active management allows for flexibility in portfolio construction and adjustments based on market conditions.

Potential Disadvantages of Index Funds:
While index funds offer low expense ratios and broad market exposure, they may lack the potential for outperformance compared to actively managed funds. Additionally, they're subject to tracking error, which occurs when the fund's performance deviates from the index it's designed to replicate.

Conclusion:
Your current SIP portfolio exhibits a well-thought-out mix of equity and debt funds, aligning with your long-term financial objectives. While most funds are suitable for continued investment, it's essential to monitor their performance regularly and make adjustments if necessary. Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice tailored to your financial 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  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Question by ASHOK GUGGARI I am 60. I have been reading your replies on Rediff.com and getting a lot of information from them for investment in mutual funds. I need your precious opinion on the following mutual funds in my MF portfolio. Recently, I have started SIPs in SBI contra & small cap fund growth of Rs 5,000 per month in each. And iam having SIP in ICICI prudential india oprtunity and large and mid cap fund Rs 6000 in each. In icici prudential flexi fund invested Rs 13,00,000 one and half year back. Kindly advice whether to change or continue.. Ashok Guggari
Ans: Dear Ashok,

It's wonderful to hear that you've found valuable information in the responses provided. When it comes to managing your MF portfolio, it's essential to regularly review your investments to ensure they align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider factors such as fund performance, investment strategy, and your own investment objectives.

Reflect on whether the funds you've chosen are still suitable for your current circumstances and long-term goals. Are they performing as expected, or are there better alternatives available? Remember, staying informed and proactive is key to optimizing your investment journey.

As you navigate your investment decisions, always keep your financial well-being at the forefront. Seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner can offer personalized insights tailored to your specific needs and aspirations.

Wishing you continued success on your investment journey!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

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Hi, I am have SIP in these mutual funds. I have a horizon of 5-8+ years and my current age is 48. All these are growth options. Can you please provide your views on these mutual funds Nippon small cap 3,000, SBI Contra 2,000, Parag Parikh Flex 9,000, HDFC Small cap 3,000, ICICI Pru Nifty 50 3,000, Kotak emerging eq 3,000
Ans: Thank you for sharing your mutual fund investments and goals. With a horizon of 5-8+ years, let's assess your portfolio.

Asset Allocation
Your portfolio shows a mix of small-cap, flexi-cap, and thematic funds. This is a good start for diversification.

Small-Cap Funds
Small-cap funds can offer high returns but come with high risk. With 5-8+ years, you can handle volatility. But, monitor performance regularly.

Flexi-Cap Funds
Flexi-cap funds invest across market caps, offering flexibility and stability. They balance risk and reward well, which is beneficial for your goal.

Thematic and Contra Funds
These funds invest based on specific themes or contrarian views. They can outperform in certain market conditions. However, they require careful monitoring.

Index Funds
Index funds track market indices and have lower expense ratios. However, they may underperform actively managed funds in volatile markets.

Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds can outperform the market through skilled fund management. They provide better opportunities in fluctuating markets.

Diversification
Your portfolio is well-diversified across different fund categories. Diversification reduces risk and increases the potential for returns.

Time Horizon
With 5-8+ years, your investments have time to recover from market dips. This horizon supports your exposure to high-risk, high-reward funds.

Regular Monitoring
Regularly monitor your funds' performance. Adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and personal financial goals.

Financial Planning
Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide tailored advice. They can help optimize your portfolio for your specific needs.

Conclusion
Your portfolio is diverse and aligned with your time horizon. Keep monitoring and consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |1056 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Nov 22, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 22, 2024Hindi
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My son secured CRL below 800 in Jee advance 2024 but did not take admission in IIT rather took admission in a third grade college and currently pursuing Btech CSE. I am worried about his future. Can he get success in future?
Ans: Hello.
You did not mention which IIT college and course your son was getting. You also did not mention which college he has been admitted to. It seems that there is a wide communication gap between you and your son. Surprisingly, a candidate getting admission to IIT rejected it and went to a 3rd-grade college (as per your opinion). You are also not clear about, what was role when your son was denied to take admission to IIT and chose a 3rd-grade engineering college. There are lots of possibilities that your son has been denied IIT college which can't be discussed on this public platform.
It seems that your son is a talented, hard worker which is already reflected in his JEE result, there is no need to worry about his future. These types of candidates are less dependent on the college and faculty. They have their inbuilt capability to learn and excel in the life. There is no need to worry much about the decision taken by your son. Just observe that, whether he is attending college regularly and engaged in extracurricular activities. If he scores well in CSE, a bright future is waiting for him. Remember, a job career is less dependent on the college name! Nowadays, show your extraordinary skills and get the job!

If satisfied, please like and follow me.
If dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 22, 2024

Money
Sir, I am 55 yrs of age. I want to invest Rs.5000/- pm in Mutual funds for a period of 5 years. Can you suggest me which Mutual funds are best for me to proceed.
Ans: At 55 years, financial planning focuses on achieving a blend of growth, stability, and tax efficiency. A systematic investment of Rs. 5000 per month in mutual funds for five years is a commendable step. This detailed plan outlines an optimal approach tailored to your needs.

Understanding Your Goals
Capital Preservation and Moderate Growth
Your investment horizon of five years suggests a moderate-risk strategy. While growth is important, safeguarding capital is equally critical at this stage in life.

Liquidity and Accessibility
Investments should provide liquidity to meet any unforeseen expenses. Funds with shorter lock-in periods or high liquidity are ideal.

Tax Efficiency
Tax implications can significantly impact net returns. A focus on tax-efficient funds and strategies will maximize your earnings.

Suggested Investment Strategy
A diversified approach ensures a balance between growth and stability. Below is a breakdown of recommended fund types:

1. Actively Managed Equity Funds
These funds can deliver superior returns by leveraging fund managers’ expertise.
They help you capitalize on opportunities that passive index funds miss.
Over five years, these funds can outperform benchmarks significantly.
2. Balanced Advantage Funds
Balanced Advantage Funds manage risk effectively by dynamically adjusting between equity and debt.
They offer stability while ensuring growth through equity exposure.
These are suitable for investors who want moderate risk with decent returns.
3. Debt-Oriented Funds
Debt funds provide stability and are less volatile compared to equity funds.
They ensure a steady income stream with lower risk.
Ideal for a portion of your portfolio to counter equity market fluctuations.
Why Avoid Index Funds?
Index funds track market benchmarks but lack active decision-making.
They do not adapt to changing market dynamics.
Actively managed funds, on the other hand, outperform during volatile periods due to skilled management.
The Pitfalls of Direct Fund Investments
While direct funds seem cost-effective, they require hands-on expertise and time. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers multiple advantages:

Expert Management: A CFP selects funds that align with your financial goals and risk appetite.
Portfolio Monitoring: They ensure your investments remain on track, adjusting for market changes.
Reduced Stress: You avoid the hassle of analyzing market trends and managing investments independently.
Regular plans through a CFP, combined with professional fund distribution, deliver better returns and convenience.

Allocating Your Rs. 5000 Monthly Investment
Equity Funds: Allocate 40-50% of your monthly investment. Equity funds offer growth and higher returns over five years.
Balanced Funds: Allocate 30-40% for stability. These funds balance growth and protection.
Debt Funds: Invest 10-20% to reduce overall portfolio risk. These funds ensure consistent returns.
By diversifying across these fund types, you minimize risks and maximize returns.

Tax Implications of Mutual Fund Investments
1. Taxation on Equity 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%.
2. Taxation on Debt Funds
Gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.
Investing for three years or more in debt funds provides indexation benefits.
3. Optimal Tax Strategy
Opt for funds with low turnover to reduce taxable events.
Hold funds for a longer term to benefit from lower tax rates on LTCG.
Key Considerations for Your Investment Journey
Periodic Reviews: Evaluate your portfolio every six months to ensure alignment with your goals.
Avoid Over-Diversification: Limiting your investments to a few funds simplifies tracking and enhances returns.
Reinvestment of Gains: Use returns from mutual funds for reinvestment to maximize compounding benefits.
Benefits of Working with a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner adds immense value to your investment journey. Here's how:

Tailored Investment Plan: They customize fund selection based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Expert Portfolio Management: Regular reviews and adjustments enhance your portfolio performance.
Holistic Financial Planning: A CFP aligns your mutual fund investments with other financial goals, such as retirement or child education.
This approach ensures a seamless investment experience with optimal outcomes.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 5000 monthly in mutual funds over five years can yield significant results with the right approach. By diversifying into equity, balanced, and debt funds, you achieve a balance of growth and stability. Avoid direct and index funds, as they lack the benefits of expert management.

A Certified Financial Planner ensures your investments remain aligned with your goals, maximizing returns while minimizing risks. Regular portfolio reviews and disciplined investing will lead you toward financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 22, 2024

Money
Sir, I' am 44 Yr. old and doing small savings in LIC and around 6.5 lakhs invested in shares. how can further improve my financial status to grow money.
Ans: Assess Your Current Financial Position
Your dedication to saving and investing shows financial discipline.

LIC savings provide insurance and assured returns but may underperform inflation-adjusted growth.

Rs 6.5 lakhs in shares is a good start for wealth accumulation but is highly dependent on market fluctuations.

You have taken initial steps toward financial independence; now focus on optimising and growing your wealth.

Define and Prioritise Your Financial Goals
Start by clearly defining your short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial goals.

Short-term: Emergency funds, annual vacations, or gadget purchases.

Medium-term: Children’s higher education or down payment for a house.

Long-term: Comfortable retirement, wealth creation, or supporting dependents.

Assign time frames and target amounts to each goal.

Prioritise based on urgency and importance to streamline your investment strategy.

Evaluate and Enhance Insurance Coverage
Life Insurance: Review your current LIC policies. Check if the coverage is adequate to secure your family’s future. A term plan may provide better protection at a lower cost.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive health coverage for the family. Choose a policy with adequate sum assured, including critical illness cover.

Avoid combining investment and insurance. Pure insurance plans like term plans are more cost-effective.

Optimise LIC Policies for Better Returns
LIC policies typically offer low to moderate returns compared to inflation and market-linked options.

Evaluate the surrender value, lock-in period, and maturity benefits of existing LIC policies.

If the returns are unsatisfactory, you may consider surrendering or withdrawing them partially.

Reinvest the proceeds into diversified mutual funds for better long-term growth.

Diversify Your Investment Portfolio
Avoid over-concentration in direct shares, as they are highly volatile and require in-depth research.

Mutual Funds: Include equity mutual funds for professional management, diversification, and inflation-beating returns. Choose funds aligned with your risk appetite and goals.

Debt Funds: Invest in debt mutual funds for stability and steady returns, especially for short-term goals.

Gold: Consider allocating 5-10% of your portfolio to gold or gold funds to hedge against inflation.

Mutual Funds: A Better Investment Option
Actively managed funds provide opportunities for higher returns than passive investments like index funds.

Regular funds offer benefits like professional advice and regular portfolio reviews by Certified Financial Planners.

CFPs ensure your investments are aligned with your long-term financial objectives.

These funds are ideal for investors seeking growth while minimising direct market exposure.

Build an Emergency Fund
Create a liquid emergency fund covering 6-12 months of your household expenses.

Use liquid mutual funds or high-interest savings accounts for this purpose.

This ensures financial stability during unforeseen circumstances like job loss or medical emergencies.

Focus on Retirement Planning
At 44, retirement planning becomes critical to securing your post-retirement lifestyle.

Start by estimating monthly expenses during retirement, considering inflation.

Invest in a balanced mix of equity and debt instruments to build a sustainable retirement corpus.

A systematic investment plan (SIP) in equity funds can help accumulate wealth over time.

Strategic Tax Planning
Review your tax-saving investments under Section 80C to maximise deductions.

ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme) mutual funds offer tax benefits and higher growth potential.

National Pension System (NPS) provides an additional Rs 50,000 tax deduction under Section 80CCD(1B).

Ensure your tax-saving investments align with your financial goals and time horizons.

Monitor and Rebalance Your Investments
Periodically review your investments to assess performance and alignment with goals.

Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired equity-to-debt ratio as market conditions change.

Avoid impulsive decisions during market volatility; focus on the long-term potential of your investments.

Avoid Common Investment Mistakes
Do not mix insurance and investment in one product, as it often leads to suboptimal returns.

Avoid relying solely on direct equity investments unless you have expertise in stock analysis.

Stay patient with equity investments, as they require a long-term horizon of 5-7 years for optimal growth.

Final Insights
Improving your financial status requires a well-thought-out and diversified investment plan.

Reassess your LIC policies and direct equity investments to optimise returns.

Diversify into mutual funds, build an emergency fund, and focus on tax-efficient investments.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner to develop a tailored strategy for your financial goals.

Take consistent and disciplined actions to grow your wealth and secure your financial future.

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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