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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11374 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 16, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 26 years of experience in MF distribution and wealth management. He holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Madras and is a CFP (Certified Financial Planner) credentialed professional. He is the Director of Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based AMFI-registered Mutual Fund Distribution (ARN-4188) and APMI-registered PMS Distribution firm (APRN07386), helping clients build long-term wealth through mutual funds and other investment solutions.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Sep 15, 2025Hindi
Money

Please review my current mutual fund portfolio my aim is another 24 years i am 36 now started one year back most my i know too many funds. so i want to keep it to 4 to 5 funds and increase money in same. 1 SBi Focused regular 4k sip (started with 2k in 2023 increased 1k in 24 and 25) -- planning to continue 2 ppfas flexi cap 3k sip(started in mar 2024) -- continue 3 nippon small cap 3k sip (strated i june 2024) -- continue 4 mirae asset elss 2k sip(started in mar 2024) -- stop once reach 1 lakh current around 58k invested 5 zerodha nifty 250 large-mid 2k sip ( started from jun 2024) -- stop once reach 1 lakh current around 36k invested 6 hsbc multi cap 2k sip ( started from dec 2024) stop once reach 1 lakh current around 24k invested 7 motilal oswal 500 momentum 50 2k sip( started from oct 2024) -- continue 8 motilal oswal mid cap 2k sip (stated from july 2025) -- continue please give us your insights if i need to add one mid/small more or continue exist?

Ans: You have done well to start early at age 36.
A 24-year horizon gives you a powerful advantage.
You also seem clear in your intent to consolidate.
Too many funds create overlap and confusion.
Your step to reduce and focus is absolutely right.

» Reviewing Your Existing Portfolio

– You currently hold 8 different mutual funds.
– Some are for short goals (ELSS, HSBC, Zerodha).
– Others are long-term growth funds (Focused, Flexi, Small, Mid, Momentum).
– Your SIP commitment shows great discipline.
– Let us go through each one and evaluate.

» SBI Focused Fund – Continue

– This is a focused equity fund.
– A good long-term holding for wealth creation.
– Fund size and management are stable.
– You already increased SIP gradually.
– Continue and increase gradually with income growth.
– Avoid replacing this. It adds quality.

» PPFAS Flexi Cap – Continue

– One of the most consistent flexi-cap funds.
– Balanced risk and global exposure strategy.
– It fits long-term goals well.
– Fund manager is known for stability.
– You started recently. Give it time.
– Continue without changes. Increase SIP steadily.

» Nippon Small Cap – Continue

– Small caps bring growth but higher volatility.
– You are young. You can handle this.
– Don't go overboard with small-cap exposure.
– Keep this as your only small-cap fund.
– Avoid adding more in this category.
– Continue but cap exposure below 20% total.

» Mirae Asset ELSS – Stop After Rs.1L

– ELSS is mainly for tax saving.
– Once Rs.1 lakh 80C is done, no need.
– Keep it only if you lack 80C coverage.
– Else, stop after your Rs.1 lakh investment.
– No long-term need to retain it.
– Shorter lock-in makes it manageable.

» Zerodha Nifty 250 – Stop After Rs.1L

– This is an index fund.
– Index funds blindly copy market index.
– No fund manager input. No downside protection.
– Returns are average, not exceptional.
– Active funds give better value with skill.
– Stop at Rs.1 lakh as planned.
– Avoid further investment in index options.

» HSBC Multi Cap – Stop After Rs.1L

– Multi-cap is already covered via flexi cap.
– Also, Focused Fund gives good diversification.
– No need for overlap through this fund.
– Performance and consistency are also average.
– Stop SIP after reaching Rs.1 lakh.
– Do not increase this one further.

» Motilal Oswal 500 Momentum 50 – Continue

– This is a thematic strategy-driven fund.
– Momentum funds are volatile but can outperform.
– Keep exposure moderate, not more than 15%.
– Track performance closely every 2 years.
– Continue for now, but with caution.
– Increase SIP only if performance justifies it.

» Motilal Oswal Mid Cap – Continue

– Mid-cap is a must in long-term portfolio.
– Gives strong growth potential with some risk.
– Stick to only one mid-cap fund.
– You started recently, give it time.
– Continue and increase SIP slowly over years.

» Ideal Fund Count for You

– Keep only 4 or 5 mutual funds.
– This keeps your tracking easy and efficient.
– More funds create duplication and stress.
– Your long-term portfolio can be:

1 Focused Equity Fund

1 Flexi Cap Fund

1 Mid Cap Fund

1 Small Cap Fund

1 Thematic Fund (optional - Momentum)

– This keeps it clean and balanced.

» Recommended Action Plan Now

– Continue SBI Focused, PPFAS Flexi Cap, Nippon Small Cap.
– Continue Motilal Oswal Mid Cap and Momentum 500.
– Stop SIP in ELSS after Rs.1 lakh is reached.
– Stop Zerodha index fund after Rs.1 lakh is reached.
– Stop HSBC Multi Cap after Rs.1 lakh is reached.
– Increase SIPs in Focused, Flexi, Mid gradually.
– Keep total SIP in Small and Momentum limited.
– Let core SIPs go into Focused and Flexi Cap.

» Asset Allocation Tips

– Equity should be 80% or more at your age.
– Within equity, use this breakdown:

40% – Flexi + Focused (core funds)

25% – Mid Cap

15% – Small Cap

10% – Momentum

10% – Others (short-term goals, ELSS if needed)

– This keeps your portfolio aggressive but smart.

» Avoid Direct Plans – Stick with Regular Funds

– Direct plans save commission but offer no guidance.
– Mistakes in selection and timing are costly.
– Regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner help.
– You get human support, behaviour control and reviews.
– Good advice adds more value than saved fee.

» Don’t Add More Funds Now

– You already hold enough categories.
– Adding one more mid/small-cap fund is unnecessary.
– Instead, increase SIP in existing mid/small-cap fund.
– This keeps focus and improves compounding effect.
– Less clutter. More growth.

» Don’t Replace Core Funds

– Don’t shift from Focused or Flexi Cap funds.
– They are long-term wealth creators.
– Allow them time to show results.
– Avoid jumping to new trendy funds.

» Monitor SIPs Annually

– Review once in a year.
– Check returns against benchmarks and peers.
– Don’t panic with short-term underperformance.
– See 3 to 5 year consistency.
– Only then decide to switch or increase.

» Understand Tax Impact Clearly

– For equity MFs, LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG (below 1 year) taxed at 20%.
– Avoid frequent redemptions to save tax.
– Let funds grow for 10+ years.
– ELSS lock-in is 3 years but stay longer.
– Plan redemptions smartly after year 20.

» Insurance Must Be Separate

– Don't mix investment and insurance.
– Buy a pure term insurance plan separately.
– Don’t buy ULIPs or endowment policies.
– If you hold them, surrender and move to MFs.
– Insurance is for protection, not returns.

» Build Emergency Fund Separately

– Keep 6 months of expenses in a liquid fund.
– Don’t use equity mutual funds for emergencies.
– This protects SIPs during tough times.
– Helps you avoid stopping or redeeming in panic.

» Use a Certified Financial Planner

– A professional adds structure to your goals.
– They keep your asset mix balanced.
– They stop you from making emotional decisions.
– Use one to guide you for 24 years.
– Long-term plans need expert review and tracking.

» Finally

– You have started very well.
– You show great clarity and intent.
– Just reduce the clutter now.
– Focus only on 4 to 5 good funds.
– Gradually increase SIPs in your top 3.
– Don’t add new funds for now.
– Monitor and review once each year.
– Let compounding do its job slowly.
– Follow discipline, patience and planning.
– Stay invested for full 24 years.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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 Kalirajan  |11374 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 21, 2024Hindi
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Hi Experts, I am 40 years old. I am investing in mutual fund SIPs. My portfolio has following funds each 1000Rs SIP monthly. 1) Quant Infrastructure 2) Quant Mid cap 3) Quant Small cap 4) Quant Active 5) Quant Flexi cap 6) ICICI Pru Infrastructure 7) ICICI Pru Bluechip 8) ICICI Pru Bharat 22 FOF 9) Nippon India Large cap 10) Nippon India Growth 11) Nippon Small cap 12) Nippon India Multi cap 13) Nippon Power & Infra 14) Aditya Birla Sun Life PSU 15) SBI PSU 16) Invesco PSU 17) JM Large cap 18) JM Value fund 19) JM Flexi cap 20) Tata Small cap 21) HDFC Mid cap opportunities 22) Mahindra Manulife Mid cap 23) Mahindra Manulife Multi cap 24) Motilal Oswal Mid cap. Am I good to continue on these funds? Do I need to add/remove any funds for a good portfolio. Please provide your thoughts.
Ans: It's commendable that you're investing in mutual funds through SIPs to build wealth for your future. However, your portfolio seems overly concentrated with a large number of funds, which may not necessarily translate into better returns. Let's review your portfolio and suggest any necessary adjustments for better diversification and performance:
Assessing Your Portfolio:
1. Quant Funds: These funds focus on quantitative strategies, which can be riskier and more volatile. Consider whether the strategy aligns with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.
2. ICICI Pru and Nippon India Funds: These are reputable fund houses offering a range of funds across different market segments. Review the performance and risk profile of each fund to ensure they meet your expectations.
3. PSU Funds: Investing in sector-specific funds like PSU funds increases concentration risk. While these funds may offer potential upside, they are susceptible to sector-specific risks.
4. Mid Cap and Small Cap Funds: These funds have the potential for high growth but come with increased volatility. Ensure they align with your risk tolerance and investment horizon.
Portfolio Optimization:
1. Consolidation: Consider consolidating your portfolio by reducing the number of funds. Focus on high-quality funds with strong track records and consistent performance.
2. Diversification: Aim for a well-diversified portfolio across different asset classes, market caps, and sectors to spread risk and optimize returns.
3. Exit Strategy: Evaluate the underperforming funds and consider exiting those that consistently lag behind their benchmarks or peers. Redirect the proceeds to more promising opportunities.
4. Professional Advice: Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to review your portfolio comprehensively and tailor it to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.
Conclusion:
While your current portfolio includes several funds, it may benefit from streamlining and optimizing for better performance and risk management. By focusing on quality over quantity and maintaining a diversified approach, you can enhance the potential for long-term wealth creation.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11374 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

Listen
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Hi Experts, I am 40 years old. I am investing in mutual fund SIPs. My portfolio has following funds each 1000Rs SIP monthly. 1) Quant Infrastructure 2) Quant Mid cap 3) Quant Small cap 4) Quant Active 5) Quant Flexi cap 6) ICICI Pru Infrastructure 7) ICICI Pru Bluechip 8) ICICI Pru Bharat 22 FOF 9) Nippon India Large cap 10) Nippon India Growth 11) Nippon Small cap 12) Nippon India Multi cap 13) Nippon Power & Infra 14) Aditya Birla Sun Life PSU 15) SBI PSU 16) Invesco PSU 17) JM Large cap 18) JM Value fund 19) JM Flexi cap 20) Tata Small cap 21) HDFC Mid cap opportunities 22) Mahindra Manulife Mid cap 23) Mahindra Manulife Multi cap 24) Motilal Oswal Mid cap Am I good to continue on these funds? Do I need to add/remove any funds for a good portfolio. Please provide your thoughts.
Ans: Mutual Fund Portfolio Analysis and Recommendation

Comprehensive Portfolio Evaluation

Your diversified mutual fund SIP portfolio reflects a proactive approach towards wealth accumulation and investment diversification. Let's assess each fund's performance and suitability to optimize your investment strategy.

Assessing Current Portfolio Allocation

Your portfolio consists of a wide range of funds spanning various market segments, including infrastructure, mid-cap, small-cap, large-cap, and flexi-cap funds. This diversification aims to capture growth opportunities across different sectors and market capitalizations.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds over Index Funds

Actively managed funds offer the potential for higher returns and outperformance compared to index funds. Fund managers leverage their expertise to select promising stocks and navigate market fluctuations effectively, enhancing portfolio returns over the long term.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Index funds, while low-cost and passively managed, may not always deliver superior returns compared to actively managed funds. They are subject to market volatility and offer limited scope for outperformance, especially during market rallies and downturns.

Identifying Overlapping Investments

Review your portfolio for any overlapping investments across funds managed by the same asset management company or with similar investment objectives. Consolidating overlapping funds can streamline your portfolio and reduce redundancy.

Optimizing Portfolio Allocation

Consider rebalancing your portfolio to ensure optimal allocation across different market segments. Focus on funds with strong fundamentals, consistent performance, and alignment with your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Direct funds require investors to conduct their own research and make investment decisions independently. However, investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides access to professional guidance and comprehensive financial planning services, enhancing portfolio management.

Highlighting Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential

Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential offers personalized guidance and disciplined investing. An MFD can help optimize your investment strategy, monitor portfolio performance, and ensure alignment with your financial goals.

Conclusion

While your current mutual fund SIP portfolio demonstrates a diversified approach, consider reviewing and potentially consolidating funds to optimize returns and reduce complexity. Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to reassess your investment strategy, align it with your financial goals, and navigate market uncertainties effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |642 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 24, 2025Hindi
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Please advise on my Mutual fund portfolio: Monthly SIP amount: Rs. 40,000/- Active SIPs (11) below 1).Aditya Birla Sun Life PSU Equity Fund Direct Growth: 1,000/- 2). Axis Small Cap Fund Direct Growth: 4,000/- 3). HDFC Flexi Cap Direct Plan Growth: 2,000/- 4). ICICI Prudential Large Cap Fund Direct Growth: 3,000/- 5).Kotak Midcap Fund Direct Growth: 2,000/- 6).Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund Direct Growth: 8,000/- 7).Nippon India Small Cap Fund Direct Growth: 4,000/- 8).Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund Direct Growth: 2,000/- 9).Quant Mid Cap Fund Direct Growth: 1,000/- 10).Quant Small Cap Fund Direct Plan Growth: 7,000/- 11). Tata Small Cap Fund Direct Growth: 6,000/- Advise corrections and updation as well make it perfect for long term. Thank you l.
Ans: This portfolio shared by you holds no good for any individual. I see a lot of overlapping and bad funds in this.
It seems all SIPs and funds are selected by watching online videos as only 2-3 funds are good performing.

It is a very common misconception to choose direct funds instead of regular funds. While direct funds provide a lower expense ratio, yet it cannot match the expertise of a professional.

- You should increase contribution in AB Fund
- You have 4 small cap funds which only destroys the portfolio.

Kindly consult a Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age and risk profile.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11374 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 10, 2026

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Regarding For Health Insurance And Term Insurance Me Age 31 Wife Age 24 Son Age 3 Mom AGE 50 DAD Age 55 Please Suggust Good Health Insurance Please Suggust Term Insurance Also For me Thanks Please Sugg
Ans: You are starting insurance planning at the right age. At 31, term insurance is usually much cheaper than later.

» Health Insurance

I would not put everyone into one common policy.

A practical structure would be:

– You, wife and son: family floater policy.
– Mother and father: separate senior-age health policies.
– Avoid mixing parents with your young family.
– Consider a strong base cover with a suitable super top-up.
– Check room-rent limits, co-payment and disease waiting periods.
– Check the insurer network near your residence.
– Check claim settlement process and policy exclusions.

For your parents, premiums can be much higher at ages 50 and 55.
So compare plans carefully before selecting one.

» Your Term Insurance

At age 31, term insurance is important because your wife and son depend on your income.

The required cover should consider:

– Your current income.
– Outstanding loans, if any.
– Child education.
– Family living expenses.
– Future financial responsibilities.

As a broad starting point, a Rs.1.5 crore to Rs.2 crore cover can be evaluated.

The policy should ideally continue until your major financial responsibilities reduce.

Choose pure term insurance only.

Avoid combining insurance with investment products.

» Important Point

Health insurance and term insurance serve different purposes.

Health insurance protects your savings from medical expenses.

Term insurance protects your family from loss of income.

Both should be treated as protection, not investment.

» Before Choosing Any Policy

Please compare:

– Claim settlement terms
– Waiting periods
– Permanent exclusions
– Co-payment conditions
– Room-rent restrictions
– Restoration benefits
– Lifetime renewal
– Network hospitals
– Premium increases
– Policy wording

Do not select only because the premium is lowest.

» Final Insights

Your young family needs a good health cover and adequate term cover.

Keep your parents separately insured.

For you, evaluate Rs.1.5 crore to Rs.2 crore term cover.

For health insurance, the exact recommendation needs your city and budget.

Also, disclose all existing medical conditions honestly while purchasing.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

AMFI-Registered MFD – ARN 4188

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramalingamcfp/

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11374 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 10, 2026

Money
Hi Sir, i am a Accountant, i am married , i have one kid with age of 3, now i am planing to Reshape my Mutual Fund Protfolio, could you advice is this correct. Now My AGE 31 I am planing until my Age 40 and After 5 Year 1 Start to SWP From That Funds 1 . parag parik flexicap fund - Monthly 6K 2 . zerodha nifty large & Mid 250 elss fund - Monthly 4K 3 . Motilal Oswal Mid cap - Monthly 3K 4. Banthan Small Cap - Monthly 2K 5 . Nippon India Gold Saving Fund - 2 K NOTE : Every Year 10% Increse SIP Amount total 10 Year Horizon and i need money from after 5 Year I start SWP can i go long term this funds or need to rebalance
Ans: You have started quite early, which is a big advantage. At age 31, your long-term compounding period is strong. Your 10% annual SIP increase is also a very good habit.

» Your Present Strategy

Your total monthly SIP is Rs.17,000.

The broad allocation is:

– Flexi-cap: Rs.6,000
– Large and mid-cap index: Rs.4,000
– Mid-cap: Rs.3,000
– Small-cap: Rs.2,000
– Gold: Rs.2,000

The allocation is reasonably diversified.

But one important issue needs attention.

You want to start SWP after only 5 years.

Five years is not a very long period for an equity-heavy portfolio.

» Main Concern With The Five-Year SWP

If you definitely need money after five years, do not keep the entire corpus in equity.

Markets can fall sharply around your SWP starting date.

This can force you to sell units at low prices.

A better approach is goal-based investing.

– Years 1 to 3: Equity can have a larger role.
– Around year 4: Start reducing risk for the required amount.
– By year 5: Keep the next few years SWP requirement in safer assets.
– Let the remaining long-term money stay invested for growth.

This can make your SWP much more comfortable.

» About The Large And Mid-Cap Index Fund

This is the part I would reconsider.

An index fund simply follows its chosen index.

It does not actively select companies based on changing business conditions.

It also cannot avoid a company merely because its future outlook has weakened.

An actively managed fund gives the fund manager flexibility.

The manager can change stocks based on valuations, earnings and business quality.

Since you are planning long-term wealth creation, active management can be useful.

I would therefore review this allocation and consider an actively managed diversified category instead.

» Mid-Cap And Small-Cap Exposure

Having both mid-cap and small-cap exposure can help long-term growth.

But these categories can fluctuate heavily.

Since you want money after five years, do not increase these allocations aggressively.

Your 10% annual SIP increase is good.

But future increases should not automatically go into small-cap funds.

» Gold Allocation

Your Rs.2,000 monthly gold allocation is reasonable.

Gold can provide diversification.

It can also help during periods of equity market stress.

I would keep gold as a supporting allocation, not the main growth component.

» Should You Continue These Funds For Ten Years?

The investment horizon and withdrawal horizon are different.

You can continue investing for 10 years.

But if money is required from year 5, that portion needs separate planning.

Do not assume that every fund must be held unchanged for ten years.

Review the portfolio once every year.

Fund selection, allocation and your financial goals can change over time.

» How I Would Reshape It

I would keep the portfolio simpler.

– One strong diversified equity fund as the core.
– One mid-cap allocation for additional growth.
– Limited small-cap exposure.
– A modest gold allocation.
– Avoid unnecessary duplication.
– Replace the index allocation with a suitable actively managed category.
– Create a separate safer bucket for the five-year requirement.

You do not need many funds to build wealth.

» Your 10% SIP Increase

Please continue this habit.

It can become more important than selecting the perfect fund.

Whenever your salary increases:

– Increase SIPs first.
– Maintain your emergency fund.
– Increase investments towards your childs future.
– Avoid increasing lifestyle expenses at the same speed.

Your child is only 3 years old.

You have a very good time horizon for that goal.

» SWP Planning

Do not start SWP merely because five years are completed.

Start SWP when the money is actually required.

Before starting SWP:

– Identify the required monthly amount.
– Keep near-term withdrawals in safer assets.
– Keep long-term money invested for growth.
– Review the withdrawal rate every year.
– Rebalance when equity exposure becomes too high.

This approach can protect the portfolio from unnecessary selling during market falls.

» Regular Funds Through MFD

Since you are planning a long-term portfolio, consider investing through an AMFI-registered MFD.

Regular funds can provide ongoing portfolio support.

You also get help with reviews, rebalancing and goal planning.

Direct investing can work for disciplined investors who manage everything themselves.

But many investors change funds based on recent performance.

An MFD can help maintain discipline through market cycles.

» Final Insights

Your basic portfolio structure is good.

The main correction is your five-year SWP plan.

Do not keep the entire portfolio equity-oriented until the SWP starts.

Also review the index allocation.

I would prefer a simpler actively managed portfolio with clear roles.

Continue the 10% annual SIP increase.

Most importantly, separate your five-year requirement from your long-term wealth.

With 10+ years of disciplined investing, you have a strong opportunity to build meaningful wealth.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

AMFI-Registered MFD – ARN 4188

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramalingamcfp/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11374 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 09, 2026

Money
Sir I have nearly 35 MF scheme. I have 4 Manu facturing fund. Axis mau facturing fund.. Canara Robecco Manu. fund G(SIP2000) Invesco Manufacturing fund G(SIP 2000 PM ). ICICI Manufacturing fund G Advise how to cut down or exit and invest in other fund continuing only one preferably ICICI. Then I have following non performing Funds Axis consumption fund G regular Hdfc Multcap Fund G regular Hdfc Multcap 50/25/25Index fund Direct Hdfc Tech. Fund D Growth Hsbc India Export Indis export Opp. D Growth ICICI opp. Fund D Growth SUNDARAM mutiasst allocation fund R . G SIP TATA NIFTY AUTO INDEX FUNDNIFTY G DIR. TATA NIFTY IND. TOURISM INDEX FUND G DIR. Above mentioned funds not performing. Your advise whether to and reinvest in an alternative fund. Overlaping funds ICICI prudential energy opportunities fund D SIP GROWTH SBI ENERGY OPP. FUND D. GROWTH 2) FRANKLIN IND. FLEXI CAP FUND R G. 20 UNIT HDFC FLEXICAP FUND R. G. 25 UNIT ICICI PRUDENTIAL FLEXI CAP R. G 3000 Unit TATA mid cap fund R. G. 175 unit UTI MID CAP FUND R. G. 200 Unit HDFC MID CAP FUND R G 250 UNIT Request detailed scrutiny and how to minimise. Besides l have following funds performing well Aditya Birla Sun Life focused fund HDFC Defence fund HDFC PHARMA FUND HDFC TRANSPORTATION FUND HSBC VALUE FUND HSBC ELSS FUND ICICI PRU.PHRMA & HEALTHCARE FUND UTI NIFTY 500 VALUE INDEX FUND I am 82 years old. No liability . Other investments like PPF BANK FD GOLD ANCESTRAL LAND PM ANNUITY PLAN RENT 15 LAKH health insurance. Equities of 5 lakhs Expenses very basic. Would like to re invest. for better returns. Waiting for your early reply. Your 's sincerely ..... ... V. G. Nadig
Ans: You have built substantial financial assets and, importantly, you have no liabilities. At age 82, the priority should now be simplicity, safety, liquidity and reasonable growth. Having nearly 35 mutual fund schemes is unnecessarily high.

» First Priority

– Reduce the MF portfolio substantially.
– Avoid managing many sector and thematic funds.
– Avoid keeping funds only because they performed well recently.
– Keep a smaller number of diversified funds.
– Keep sufficient money in safer assets for your regular needs.

At your age, chasing maximum returns is not necessary.

» Manufacturing Funds

You currently have four manufacturing funds:

– Axis Manufacturing
– Canara Robeco Manufacturing
– Invesco Manufacturing
– ICICI Prudential Manufacturing

There is considerable overlap in this allocation.

I would not keep four manufacturing funds.

If you have a strong preference for the ICICI Prudential Manufacturing Fund, keeping one manufacturing fund can be considered.

The other three can be reviewed for exit and consolidation.

However, do not switch all four on one day blindly. Check capital gains and exit loads first.

» Funds You Mentioned As Non-Performing

You mentioned:

– Axis Consumption
– HDFC Multicap
– HDFC Multicap 50/25/25 Index
– HDFC Technology
– HSBC India Export Opportunities
– ICICI Prudential Opportunities
– Sundaram Multi Asset Allocation
– Tata Nifty Auto Index
– Tata Nifty India Tourism Index

I would not judge these funds only by recent returns.

Some are sector, thematic or index-oriented funds.

They can have long periods of underperformance.

For an 82-year-old investor, I would reduce such complexity.

The index-oriented funds especially do not need to be retained simply for diversification.

» Energy Fund Overlap

You have exposure to:

– ICICI Prudential Energy Opportunities
– SBI Energy Opportunities

There is no strong need to hold two funds in the same sector.

Keep only one if you want sector exposure.

But given your age, even this allocation should remain limited.

» Flexi Cap Overlap

You currently have:

– Franklin India Flexi Cap
– HDFC Flexi Cap
– ICICI Prudential Flexi Cap

This is another clear area for consolidation.

Three flexi-cap funds are unnecessary.

You can retain one suitable flexi-cap fund.

The remaining two can gradually be consolidated after checking taxation and exit loads.

» Mid Cap Overlap

You have:

– Tata Mid Cap
– UTI Mid Cap
– HDFC Mid Cap

Again, three funds are not required.

Keep one suitable mid-cap fund if your overall portfolio needs this exposure.

However, at age 82, I would not maintain a large mid-cap allocation.

This money can be more useful in diversified and relatively stable investments.

» Funds Performing Well

You mentioned:

– Aditya Birla Sun Life Focused
– HDFC Defence
– HDFC Pharma
– HDFC Transportation
– HSBC Value
– HSBC ELSS
– ICICI Prudential Pharma & Healthcare
– UTI Nifty 500 Value Index

Good past performance alone should not decide whether you retain them.

You have multiple sector and thematic exposures here too.

For example, you already have two healthcare-oriented funds.

Defence and transportation are also thematic exposures.

I would reduce the number of such specialised funds.

» A Better Portfolio Structure

Your portfolio can be simplified into a few clear roles:

– Core diversified equity allocation
– Limited mid-cap allocation
– Limited thematic allocation, if required
– Suitable conservative allocation
– Adequate cash and fixed-income allocation

You do not need 35 schemes to achieve diversification.

Around 5 to 7 carefully selected funds can be more than sufficient.

» Very Important At Age 82

Your investment objective should now be different from that of a 40-year-old investor.

Capital preservation is important.

Liquidity is also very important.

You should have enough safe money for several years of expenses.

Equity should mainly serve the purpose of long-term inflation protection.

Do not put money required for near-term expenses into equity.

» About Reinvesting After Exit

I would not immediately reinvest every redemption into another equity fund.

First identify how much money you need for:

– Regular expenses
– Medical requirements
– Family support
– Emergency needs
– Future personal requirements

The remaining long-term surplus can then be invested.

This approach will make your portfolio much safer and easier to manage.

» Your Other Assets

Your FD, PPF, gold, ancestral land, annuity income and rental income provide additional diversification.

Your basic expenses are also low.

This is a positive position.

Therefore, there is no need to take excessive equity risk for higher returns.

» How I Would Approach The 35 Funds

Do it in three stages.

First, identify sector and thematic duplication.

Second, identify overlapping diversified categories.

Third, consolidate the portfolio gradually.

Do not sell everything together.

Review taxation and exit loads before each redemption.

The money released should then be allocated according to your income and liquidity requirements.

» Final Insights

You have done well in building a large and diversified investment base.

The main issue now is not lack of diversification.

It is excessive diversification.

35 schemes can make monitoring difficult and may create hidden overlap.

I would aim for a much simpler portfolio.

Your manufacturing, energy, flexi-cap and mid-cap holdings are the first areas I would consolidate.

I would also reduce excessive thematic exposure.

At 82, stability and peace of mind should come before chasing the highest possible return.

A detailed scheme-wise review would be useful before redeeming anything. It should consider current value, purchase value, gains, taxation, SIP status and exit load for every scheme.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

AMFI-Registered MFD – ARN 4188

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramalingamcfp/

...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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