I am regularly investing via SIP in UTI flexicap since last 6 years. Now, I am seeing that, UTI FLEXICAP is underperforming relative to its peers. What should I do now? Should I stop SIP or continue?

Ans:

Multicap: Suitable options considering quality and value for money at present levels are UTI Equity Fund, Axis Multicap and Motilal Oswal Multicap 35

Midcap: Suitable options considering quality and value for money at present levels are Motilal Oswal Midcap 30, DSP Midcap and  Axis Midcap

Ans: I always feel that, be it any asset - real estate, gold , MF or shares, it is always better to diversify. In your case, since your SIP is under=performing, it is better to wait and then to diversify. The investment object of UTI Flexicap is capital appreciation, which would be possible in long term only. Always read the investment objective of the MF, before investing and check if the objective is aligning with your own investment objective.

Ans: It's commendable that you've been investing systematically for the past 5 years. Let's review your SIP portfolio and evaluate whether adjustments are needed to align with your long-term goals.

Analyzing Fund Selection:

Your SIP portfolio comprises a mix of equity funds, including Axis Long Term Equity, UTI Nifty Index Fund, SBI Small Cap Fund, Quant Active Fund, and UTI FlexiCap Fund. Each fund has its unique investment objective and risk profile.

Reviewing Performance:

Evaluate the performance of each fund relative to its benchmark index and peers over the past 5 years. Look for consistency in returns and assess whether the funds have met your expectations.

Assessing Fund Suitability:

Consider whether the selected funds align with your risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals. Ensure that the portfolio is diversified across different market segments to mitigate risk.

Considering Market Conditions:

Review the current market conditions and economic outlook to assess potential opportunities and risks. Adjust your portfolio strategy accordingly to capitalize on emerging trends or mitigate downside risks.

Exploring Alternative Options:

If any of the funds in your portfolio consistently underperform or no longer align with your investment objectives, consider replacing them with better-performing alternatives. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice.

Consultation with a Certified Financial Planner:

Engage with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to conduct a comprehensive review of your SIP portfolio. A CFP can provide insights into potential adjustments based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market outlook.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, periodic review and adjustments to your SIP portfolio are essential for optimizing returns and achieving your long-term investment goals. By staying informed, evaluating performance, and consulting with a Certified Financial Planner, you can make informed decisions to ensure the success of your investment journey.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: You have consistently invested Rs 2,000 per month in a flexicap fund since 2014. With an XIRR of 13.6%, this SIP has delivered a strong, inflation-beating return over time. This consistency reflects disciplined investment behaviour. However, it is natural to compare returns with other funds offering better short-term performance.

Let us analyse the situation and guide your next steps.

Strengths of Your Current Investment
Long-Term Investing: Staying invested since 2014 has leveraged the power of compounding.

Steady Returns: The fund has provided a stable 13.6% XIRR over nine years.

Market Phases: The fund has weathered various market cycles, proving its resilience.

Should You Switch to a New Fund?
Switching funds requires careful consideration. A short-term performance comparison alone is not enough.

1. Check Consistency Over Time
Review the 10-year and 15-year performance of your current fund.
Consistent performers in all market cycles are more reliable.
2. Assess Fund's Risk and Style
A high return in another fund may come with higher volatility or risks.
Evaluate the investment style and portfolio diversification of alternatives.
3. Impact of Capital Gains Tax
Selling your current investments may trigger long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax.
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Factor this into your decision.
4. Transaction Costs
Consider exit loads or transaction charges if applicable.
Regular switching can erode returns through such costs.
Benefits of Staying Invested
1. Avoid Market Timing
Timing the market by chasing high-return funds can lead to losses.
Patience with a consistent performer usually pays off in the long term.
2. Power of Compounding
Long-term SIPs maximise compounding benefits.
Frequent fund changes interrupt this growth cycle.
When Should You Consider Switching?
If the fund consistently underperforms its benchmark and peers over 5-10 years.
If there are major changes in fund management or strategy.
Alternative Approach Instead of Switching
1. Diversify Across Funds
Start a SIP in another flexicap fund without stopping the existing one.
This ensures better diversification without disrupting current investments.
2. Review Portfolio Overlap
Avoid funds with overlapping portfolios to ensure diversification.
3. Seek Expert Guidance
Invest through an MFD with CFP credentials for personalised fund selection.
Active management ensures funds align with your financial goals.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds do not offer advisory support.
You may miss crucial rebalancing opportunities without professional guidance.
Investing through regular plans with an MFD ensures expert monitoring and timely actions.
Final Insights
Your existing SIP has delivered steady, long-term returns. Do not switch based on short-term fund performance alone. Evaluate long-term consistency and risk before making changes. Consider starting a new SIP in another fund to diversify instead of stopping your current SIP.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ans: The ongoing SEBI investigation and other highlighted concerns about Quant Mutual Fund raise significant questions. Here is a comprehensive evaluation of whether to continue your SIPs or stop them.

1. Understanding the Current Situation with Quant Mutual Fund
SEBI conducted a search-and-seizure operation, not a routine enquiry.

Quant Mutual Fund clarified that the operation was part of a court-approved investigation.

Changes in leadership, such as the CFO's resignation, have added to investor concerns.

Despite these challenges, the fund house continues to assure full cooperation with SEBI.

2. Performance and Reputation of Quant Mutual Fund
Quant Mutual Fund has shown exceptional growth, with AUMs rising from Rs 233 crore to Rs 94,000 crore in four years.

The fund's small-cap schemes have delivered outstanding performance, often topping the charts.

Critics highlight red flags, including over-reliance on one individual and potential SEBI rule violations.

Momentum-based strategies and concentrated stock holdings raise questions about risk and sustainability.

3. Risks Associated with One-Man Show Management
Investment decisions reportedly rely heavily on Sandeep Tandon, the key figure at Quant.

Lack of a robust team structure and research capacity may pose systemic risks.

A one-person-driven strategy can lead to inconsistent performance in volatile markets.

Inadequate team size and resources could hinder the fund’s ability to address SEBI’s queries effectively.

4. Evaluating Diversification in Your Portfolio
You already have five SIPs in small-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds performing well with over 15% CAGR.

Diversifying across multiple fund houses reduces exposure to single-entity risks.

Overlapping strategies within the same fund categories may lead to over-concentration.

Reassess your portfolio’s allocation to ensure alignment with your financial goals.

5. Tax Implications of Stopping SIP and Redeeming Investments
If you decide to stop SIPs and redeem investments, consider the tax impact.

LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%, while STCG is taxed at 20%.

Plan redemptions to minimise tax liability and reinvest strategically.

Use a Certified Financial Planner for tax-efficient portfolio adjustments.

6. Alternatives to Quant Funds for SIP Diversion
If you stop SIPs in Quant funds, divert the amount to your existing well-performing funds.

Actively managed funds with strong teams and transparent processes are ideal alternatives.

Ensure new investments align with your risk appetite and financial objectives.

Balance between equity and debt funds for portfolio stability and growth.

7. Impact of SEBI Investigation on Investor Confidence
SEBI’s findings may impact Quant Mutual Fund’s reputation and future performance.

Regulatory actions could introduce stricter compliance measures across the mutual fund industry.

Monitor updates on the investigation and assess its implications for the fund house.

Maintain vigilance about regulatory developments affecting the fund.

8. Importance of Fund House Credibility
A fund house's governance and transparency are critical for investor trust.

Reevaluate investments in funds with potential governance issues.

Choose funds with a strong track record of compliance and ethical practices.

Avoid funds overly dependent on individuals rather than institutional processes.

9. Making a Decision on Quant SIP Continuation
Reasons to Consider Stopping SIPs in Quant Funds:

Regulatory risks due to SEBI investigation.
Over-reliance on a one-man strategy.
Lack of institutional structure and research team.
Reasons to Consider Continuing SIPs in Quant Funds:

Exceptional past performance.
Potential for future returns if the fund overcomes current challenges.
10. Final Insights
The SEBI investigation and governance concerns warrant a cautious approach. If you are uncomfortable with the risks, stopping SIPs and diverting funds to your other well-performing SIPs is prudent. Maintain a diversified and balanced portfolio to safeguard your financial goals. Stay updated on SEBI developments and periodically review your investments with a Certified Financial Planner.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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