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Advait

Advait Arora  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jan 18, 2024

Advait Arora has over 20 years of experience in direct investing in stock markets in India and overseas.
He holds a masters in IT management from the University Of Wollongong, Australia, and an MBA in marketing from Charles Strut University, NewCastle, Australia.
Advait is a firm believer in the power of compounding to help his clients grow their wealth.... more
Amit Question by Amit on Oct 26, 2023Hindi
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in small cap, mid cap, technology sector or banking sector, which will be a more rewarding sector in 5 to 10 year duration to invest as SIP.

Ans: Stick to a mix of large and mid/small cap stocks. but a good mutual funds in these categories.
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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For SIP for 5 year range where to invest and for one time for 5year span where to invest?
Ans: Let's break down the investment options based on the duration and type of investment.

For SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) for a 5-year range:

Equity Mutual Funds: Opt for diversified equity mutual funds that have a proven track record. They offer the potential for higher returns over the long term, although they come with higher volatility. These funds can help capture the growth potential of the stock market over a 5-year horizon.
Balanced Funds: These funds invest in both equity and debt instruments, offering a balanced approach. They can be suitable for investors seeking moderate growth with relatively lower risk compared to pure equity funds.
Index Funds: These funds track a specific market index and aim to replicate its performance. They typically have lower expense ratios and can be less volatile than actively managed equity funds.
For One-Time Investment for a 5-year span:

Debt Mutual Funds: If you're looking for stability and capital preservation, consider short-term debt funds or corporate bond funds. They are less volatile than equity funds and offer returns in the form of interest income.
Fixed Deposits (FD): Bank FDs can be a suitable option for conservative investors. They offer fixed returns and are relatively safer compared to mutual funds. However, the returns are generally lower than equity or debt mutual funds.
Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds dynamically manage the allocation between equity and debt based on market valuations. They can be a good choice for investors seeking a balanced approach with the flexibility to adapt to market conditions.
General Advice:

Risk Profile: Ensure that the chosen investments align with your risk tolerance. If you can tolerate volatility for potentially higher returns, equity-based investments might be suitable. For a conservative approach, debt or balanced funds could be better.
Diversification: It's always wise to diversify across asset classes to spread risk and optimize returns. A mix of equity, debt, and possibly gold can provide a balanced portfolio.
Periodic Review: Regularly review your investments to ensure they are on track to meet your financial goals and make necessary adjustments if required.
Remember, the key is to align your investments with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Consulting with a financial advisor can also provide personalized advice tailored to your needs and circumstances.

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 27, 2024

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I am willing to invest INR 12500 in SIP for next 10 to 15 years. Kindly advise for best SIP for good return.
Ans: investing in SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) is a smart way to build wealth over the long term. With a time horizon of 10 to 15 years, you have the opportunity to benefit from the power of compounding and potentially higher returns from equity investments. Here's a suggestion for a diversified SIP portfolio:

Large Cap Fund: Allocate a significant portion of your SIP amount to a large-cap fund. These funds invest in established companies with a proven track record and offer stability to your portfolio.
Flexi Cap Fund: Opt for a flexi-cap fund that provides the flexibility to invest across companies of various market capitalizations based on market conditions. This offers exposure to both large, mid, and small-cap segments, enhancing diversification.
Mid Cap Fund: Allocate a portion of your SIP to a mid-cap fund, focusing on companies with medium market capitalization. Mid-cap companies have the potential for significant growth, providing an opportunity for higher returns over the long term.
Small Cap Fund (Optional): Depending on your risk appetite, you may consider including a small-cap fund in your portfolio. These funds invest in smaller companies with the potential for rapid growth, albeit with higher volatility.
By focusing on large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap funds, you create a well-diversified SIP portfolio that balances stability with growth potential. Before finalizing your investment decisions, assess your risk tolerance and consult with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure your portfolio aligns with your long-term financial goals. Remember to stay disciplined and review your portfolio periodically to make any necessary adjustments.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10999 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Sir I want to invest in sip as I am targeting to get 1 cr in 10 years. In which sip should I invest and how much amount monthly
Ans: Congratulations on your commitment to financial planning! Let's embark on a journey to design a strategic investment plan that aligns with your long-term goals.

Assessment of Financial Goals

Understanding your financial aspirations is crucial for devising an effective investment strategy. By comprehensively assessing your goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon, we can tailor a plan to suit your needs.

Evaluation of Current Financial Situation

Before charting the course ahead, let's evaluate your current financial landscape. This involves analyzing your income, expenses, existing investments, and liabilities to gain a holistic understanding of your financial standing.

Strategic Asset Allocation

Based on your risk appetite and investment horizon, we'll craft a diversified portfolio comprising a mix of asset classes such as equities, debt instruments, and alternative investments. This balanced approach aims to optimize returns while mitigating risks.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds offer several advantages over passive index funds or ETFs. They are overseen by experienced fund managers who actively research and select investments, aiming to outperform the market. This proactive approach can potentially generate higher returns and adapt to changing market conditions.

Risks of Direct Funds vs. Benefits of Regular Funds through MFD with CFP Credential

Investing directly in mutual funds may seem convenient, but it comes with inherent risks such as lack of professional guidance, emotional decision-making, and inadequate diversification. On the other hand, investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) accredited Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) offers several benefits, including personalized advice, goal-oriented planning, and access to a diversified range of funds tailored to your needs.

Exploring Investment Avenues

With a strategic framework in place, let's explore various investment avenues suited to your goals and risk profile:

Equity Mutual Funds: These funds offer long-term growth potential by investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks across different market segments. They are ideal for investors with a higher risk appetite and a long-term investment horizon.

Debt Mutual Funds: Debt funds provide stability and regular income through investments in fixed-income securities such as government bonds, corporate bonds, and money market instruments. They are suitable for conservative investors seeking capital preservation and steady returns.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs): SIPs offer a disciplined approach to investing, allowing you to invest small amounts regularly over time. This systematic investment strategy harnesses the power of compounding and helps in rupee cost averaging, reducing the impact of market volatility.

Conclusion

By adopting a strategic investment approach, leveraging the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and diversifying your portfolio across various asset classes, you can pave the way for long-term financial success and achieve your life goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10999 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 30, 2026

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I have invested Rs. 50000 in Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund and another Rs. 50000 in HDFC Flexicap Fund in July 2025 and while the former is always in red the latter is giving around 4- 5% return. Should I continue to remain invested in them or would you suggest switching to a a different fund.
Ans: First, I appreciate your discipline in investing and reviewing your funds soon after you started. That habit itself is a strong pillar of long-term financial success.

» Understanding your current investment situation
– You invested Rs. 50,000 in an actively managed mid-cap fund (Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund) in July 2025
– You also invested Rs. 50,000 in a flexi-cap equity fund (HDFC Flexicap Fund) at the same time
– The mid-cap fund is currently showing negative returns
– The flexi-cap fund is showing around 4–5 percent return

» Why performance can differ between funds
– Mid-cap funds tend to be more volatile, especially over short periods
– Early investment performance is not a reliable signal of future outcomes in equity funds
– Actively managed funds can differ significantly based on stock picks, sector bets and market cycles
– Equity funds need time (typically 5+ years) to smooth out ups and downs

» What to assess before deciding to continue or switch
– Time horizon: How long can you stay invested? Equity should ideally be for medium to long term (5 years or more)
– Risk appetite: Mid-cap funds swing more than diversified equity funds and need higher risk tolerance
– Fund objectives and style: Does the fund’s approach match your goals and conviction?
– Consistency of performance: Compare returns over multiple periods (1 year, 3 years, 5 years) relative to peers, not just since inception
– Fund manager experience: Long-term funds often benefit from stable and experienced management

» Should you remain invested or switch? (Practical assessment)
– For the mid-cap fund showing negative returns early:

Equity markets can move up and down in the short term. A few months of red should not be the sole reason to exit if your time horizon is 5 years or more.

If your comfort with volatility is low, consider shifting part or all of the amount to a less volatile equity category or balanced equity oriented option.
– For the flexi-cap fund with modest positive return:

Flexi-cap funds dynamically adjust allocation across market caps and help moderate volatility.

If the fund continues to align with your risk and goals, holding it makes sense.
– Do not make decisions based on short-term returns alone. Give equity adequate time to perform.

» Why actively managed funds serve you better in your case
– Market benchmarks (like index funds) simply mirror market movements without risk management choices. In falling phases, index funds have no active decision to protect capital.
– Actively managed funds can take defensive steps when markets weaken, and reallocate to sectors or stocks with better risk-reward prospects.
– For individual investors, this active oversight brings discipline and better behavioral support, especially in turbulent markets.

» How to decide if switching is needed (Step by step)
– Re-evaluate the mid-cap fund’s long-term prospects rather than recent performance
– Compare its performance with similar actively managed mid-cap peers, not the index
– If you find its strategy, risk profile or management lacking, consider a more diversified actively managed equity option suitable for your horizon
– Avoid switching too frequently, as this can erode returns and incur costs

» Final Insights
– Stay invested if your time horizon is 5 years or more and you can accept volatility
– Early red in mid-cap is not a reason by itself to exit, but do assess comfort level
– Actively managed equity funds offer better risk management than passive index approaches
– Periodic review every 12–18 months, not monthly, should guide your decisions

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

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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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