Q3. Is it prudent to keep investing in SBI Focused equity fund through SIP as it falls in same category of Parag Parikh Flexicap? Further as the AUM of SBI Focused Equity fund is about 12,520 Crore is it not an issue?

Ans: Your investments show a good level of financial discipline.
It is important now to evaluate them carefully.
Let us explore from all angles to guide you right.

Overview of Your Investments
You have invested Rs. 8.4 lakhs in a flexi-cap equity mutual fund.

You have also invested Rs. 3.4 lakhs in a mid-cap equity mutual fund.

Currently, SIPs in both funds are stopped.

Performance and Risk Understanding
Flexi-Cap Equity Mutual Fund
This fund invests across large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap stocks.

It gives broad diversification across sectors and companies.

These funds are more stable in down markets than pure mid or small caps.

Ideal for moderate to long-term investors who want steady growth.

Lower volatility compared to mid and small-cap funds.

Mid-Cap Equity Mutual Fund
This fund invests in medium-sized companies with high growth potential.

It has more risk and more reward possibilities than flexi-cap.

Suitable only if your risk appetite is high and time horizon is long.

Short-term performance can be very volatile.

These funds do well in bullish markets, but fall faster in corrections.

Key Observations on Your Investment Mix
Your major portion is in the flexi-cap fund.

Mid-cap exposure is much smaller, which is good for risk control.

You have diversified across fund types, which is smart investing.

Now, decisions should be based on your future goals and time horizon.

SIP Decision – Continue or Not?
Should You Resume SIP in Flexi-Cap Fund?
Yes, flexi-cap funds suit long-term investors with balanced risk profile.

They give exposure to multiple segments of the market.

SIPs help in rupee cost averaging during market ups and downs.

It is a better choice to restart SIP in this fund.

Continue if your goal is 5+ years away and you want moderate risk.

Should You Resume SIP in Mid-Cap Fund?
Not advisable unless your risk tolerance is high.

Past returns are strong but risk is much higher.

Avoid fresh investments if goal is short-term or if markets are volatile.

You can hold your existing investment and wait for long-term growth.

Don't resume SIP unless you’re very confident with market movements.

What About STP (Systematic Transfer Plan)?
STP works best when moving from low-risk to high-risk funds gradually.

Both your funds are equity-based with high volatility.

Doing STP between them won’t reduce your risk.

No strong advantage in switching from one equity fund to another here.

Better to keep your funds where they are, based on your goals.

What Should You Do Next?
Review Your Financial Goals
What is your investment time horizon?

Is it for retirement, education, home, or wealth creation?

Match the fund types with your goals.

Equity funds are best if your goal is 5 years or more.

Avoid touching these funds for short-term needs.

Assess Your Risk Profile Again
Can you tolerate market ups and downs?

Mid-caps can fall 20–30% in a bad year.

Flexi-caps are slightly safer but still volatile.

Review your mental comfort with losses during down cycles.

If you feel uncomfortable, reduce equity exposure slowly.

Important Note on Direct Mutual Funds
Direct funds charge lower expense ratio.

But they come with no professional support.

No monitoring, no guidance on when to switch or rebalance.

Mistakes in choosing or staying in wrong fund can harm returns.

Investing through a trusted MFD with CFP qualification is safer.

They give timely advice and personalized portfolio reviews.

Long-term value comes from right guidance, not just lower fees.

Better to use regular plans through qualified planners.

Taxation Angle (If You Sell)
If you sell within one year, 20% tax is on short-term gains.

If you sell after one year, gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Mid-cap funds may have more capital gains if held long.

Check holding period before selling to avoid unnecessary tax.

Better to wait for long-term status before any redemption.

Portfolio Rebalancing – Is It Needed?
Rebalancing is needed only if your goals or risk profile change.

Your mix now is around 70:30 flexi to mid-cap.

That is reasonable for a balanced investor.

Only rebalance if you add new goals or want to reduce risk.

No need for urgent switching or reshuffling at this point.

When to Consider Redemption
Only if your goal is approaching.

Or if you need the funds for any emergency.

Else, stay invested and allow compounding to work.

Redemption should not be based on market noise.

Base it only on your personal financial plan.

Suggested 360-Degree Approach
Resume SIP in flexi-cap fund for long-term growth.

Hold mid-cap investment and let it grow over time.

Do not shift money between these funds via STP.

Review your goals, risk profile, and investment horizon regularly.

Avoid using direct mutual funds to get the right guidance.

Use a certified financial planner for long-term investment health.

Keep your emotions away from short-term market moves.

Focus on your goals, not on recent returns.

Finally
You have done a good job by investing early and diversifying.

Now it’s time to take the next step smartly.

A systematic and goal-oriented strategy works better than reactive moves.

Continue with discipline and professional support.

Let your portfolio grow quietly with time and patience.

Keep monitoring your portfolio with a certified planner’s help.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,

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