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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 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
Yash Question by Yash on May 09, 2024Hindi
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I want to start SIP of 30,000 per month, for 5 years, is SIP safe to invest, and in what should i invest?

Ans: Embarking on your SIP journey is a wise step towards achieving your financial goals. Let's delve into the safety and suitability of SIP investments and explore appropriate options.

Understanding Your Investment Goal
Congratulations on your decision to start a SIP! Your commitment to regular investing reflects your disciplined approach to wealth accumulation.

Analyzing SIP Safety
SIPs are considered relatively safe for long-term investments due to their disciplined and systematic approach. However, it's essential to understand the risks associated with market fluctuations.

Investment Recommendations
Considering your investment horizon of 5 years, here are some suitable options:

Diversified Equity Funds: While equities carry inherent risks, diversified equity funds offer exposure to a variety of sectors, reducing individual stock risk.

Balanced Funds: Balanced funds invest in a mix of equities and debt instruments, providing a balanced approach to risk and return. They are ideal for investors seeking stability.

Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures professional guidance and ongoing support, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of your investment strategy.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds require investors to research, select, and manage their investments, which can be time-consuming and challenging for inexperienced investors. Opting for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner provides access to professional expertise and personalized advice.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform index funds through strategic portfolio management and active decision-making. They can capitalize on market opportunities and adjust portfolios accordingly, potentially enhancing returns.

Conclusion
Starting a SIP of Rs. 30,000 per month for 5 years is a prudent decision towards achieving your financial goals. By investing in diversified equity funds or balanced funds through a Certified Financial Planner, you can navigate market uncertainties and work towards building a robust investment portfolio.

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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I want to start the SIP with a monthly investment of 30 ~ 50K. Please advice
Ans: Starting a SIP with a monthly investment of 30,000 to 50,000 is a commendable decision towards your financial future. Here’s a general guideline to help you get started:

Assess Your Financial Goals: Before diving in, clarify your financial goals. Are you saving for retirement, a down payment on a home, or your child's education? Knowing your goals will guide your investment strategy.
Diversify Your Portfolio: Spread your investments across different asset classes like equity, debt, and gold to reduce risk. Equity funds can offer higher returns over the long term, while debt funds provide stability.
Choose Mutual Funds Wisely: Opt for mutual funds with a track record of consistent performance and low expense ratios. Research fund managers, fund size, and historical returns before investing.
Start with a Mix: If you’re unsure where to begin, consider starting with a balanced mutual fund or a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. This can provide a balanced approach to growth while managing risk.
Review and Adjust: Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Adjust your SIP amounts and fund selections as needed.
Consult a Certified Financial Planner: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to develop a personalized investment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Remember, investing is a long-term commitment. Stay disciplined, avoid emotional decisions based on market fluctuations, and focus on your long-term goals.

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

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Sir, I am planning to invest in SIP Rs.10000/- per month for long term. Say 25 to 30 years. Kindly advise.
Ans: Long-Term SIP Investment Strategy
Investing ?10,000 per month in a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for 25 to 30 years is an excellent strategy to build substantial wealth over the long term. Given the extended horizon, you can benefit from the power of compounding and ride out market volatility. Let’s explore a comprehensive investment plan to achieve your financial goals.

Understanding Your Investment Goals
Before diving into specific fund recommendations, it's important to define your investment goals. Are you saving for retirement, children's education, buying a house, or other long-term financial objectives? Clear goals will help tailor your investment strategy.

Diversified Portfolio for Long-Term Investment
A diversified portfolio is key to balancing risk and return. Here’s a suggested allocation for a long-term SIP investment:

Equity Mutual Funds
Equity Mutual Funds are ideal for long-term growth. They offer higher returns compared to other asset classes over an extended period. Given your long horizon, you can afford to take on more equity exposure.

Large Cap Funds: 30-40%

These funds invest in well-established companies with stable returns. They are less volatile and provide steady growth.
Mid Cap Funds: 20-30%

Mid cap funds invest in medium-sized companies with high growth potential. They offer a balance between risk and return.
Small Cap Funds: 10-20%

Small cap funds invest in smaller companies with significant growth potential but higher volatility. These funds can provide substantial returns over the long term.
Hybrid or Balanced Funds
Hybrid or Balanced Funds invest in a mix of equity and debt instruments, providing a balanced approach to risk and return.

Allocation: 10-20%
These funds offer stability through debt investments while participating in equity market growth.
Debt Funds
Debt Funds provide stability and are less volatile compared to equity funds. Including a small portion of debt funds can help manage risk.

Allocation: 10-20%
Invest in high-quality short-term and medium-term debt funds for better liquidity and safety.
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
SIPs help in averaging the purchase cost over time and instill disciplined investing. Regular investments reduce the impact of market volatility and enable you to benefit from rupee cost averaging.

Suggested Funds
When selecting specific mutual funds, consider the following criteria:

Consistent Performance: Choose funds with a strong performance track record across different market cycles.

Experienced Fund Managers: Opt for funds managed by experienced and reputable fund managers.

Low Expense Ratios: Lower costs mean more of your money is invested, leading to better returns.

Fund House Reputation: Select funds from reputable and stable fund houses.

Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regularly monitor your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your investment goals. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation and manage risk.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
Engage with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice. They can provide a tailored investment strategy based on your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance.

Conclusion
Investing ?10,000 per month in SIPs for 25 to 30 years is a robust strategy for building wealth. A diversified portfolio with a mix of large, mid, and small cap funds, along with hybrid and debt funds, can help you achieve your financial goals. Regular monitoring and consultation with a Certified Financial Planner will ensure your investments stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Sir can I get coep at 99.358 percentile of mht cet..cse is possible or I should go for ai or ectx or try cs at other colleges .. I stay in Navi mumbai. Pune is not a problem but what should I choose kashish pahuja
Ans: Savita, With a 99.358 percentile in MHT CET, securing Computer Engineering (CSE) at COEP Pune is not possible for the General category, as the 2023 and 2024 closing percentiles for CSE were 99.85 and 99.92, respectively, and the trend is expected to continue above 99.8 this year. For allied branches, Robotics & Artificial Intelligence closed at 99.65–99.79, and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering at 99.71–99.91, both above your percentile. Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering closed at 99.41 and 99.16, also slightly out of reach. However, you have strong chances for CSE, IT, or AI/DS in other top Pune colleges such as PICT, VIT Pune, MIT WPU, PCCOE, VIIT, and DY Patil, all of which offer excellent placement records (86–92% for CSE/IT) and strong industry connections. These colleges are well-regarded in Maharashtra, feature modern infrastructure, and are popular among Navi Mumbai students. If you are open to related fields, AI, Data Science, or E&TC in these institutes can also lead to top IT roles, given the overlap in curriculum and placement opportunities.

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My son got Mechanical in IIT Bombay.He can also get CS in COEP Poona with 99.91 percentile jee mains with obc ncl . We r from maharashtra. What to choose
Ans: Your son’s options—Mechanical Engineering at IIT Bombay or Computer Science Engineering (CSE) at COEP Pune with a 99.91 percentile (OBC-NCL) in JEE Mains—are both prestigious, but differ in academic focus and career trajectory. IIT Bombay Mechanical boasts a 90.9% placement rate in 2024, with top recruiters from core engineering, consulting, and technology sectors, and an average package of ?23.5 LPA. The IIT Bombay brand offers unmatched national and global recognition, a vibrant campus life, and strong alumni support. COEP Pune CSE, meanwhile, is Maharashtra’s top state engineering program, consistently achieving 87–95% placement rates, an average package of ?11.35 LPA, and top recruiters like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, and TCS. COEP’s CSE program is highly competitive, with excellent infrastructure, industry connections, and a robust alumni network, and is ranked among India’s top 20 engineering colleges. While CSE at COEP offers direct entry into the booming tech sector with high placement rates, IIT Bombay Mechanical provides a broader engineering foundation, flexibility for interdisciplinary careers, and a strong pathway for higher studies or core engineering roles. Both colleges have excellent placement cells and internship opportunities, but IIT Bombay’s national and international reputation is unparalleled, and Mechanical Engineering graduates have consistently secured top roles and internships with leading companies. COEP Pune CSE is ideal for those set on a tech/software career, while IIT Bombay Mechanical is better for those interested in core engineering, research, or diverse career options.

recommendation: Choose CSE at COEP Pune if your son is determined to build a career in software/IT, values strong local industry connections, and prefers the highest placement rates in Maharashtra. Opt for Mechanical at IIT Bombay for unmatched brand value, broader career flexibility, and superior opportunities for higher studies, research, or core engineering roles—especially if he is open to interdisciplinary or core engineering careers. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Sir I have got 4445 rank in srmjee phase 2 and I have put my preference as cse big data analytics in main campus.... Will i get it please tell fast please sir
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Which is the best college in India to do Mechanical Engineering except IITs and NITs
Ans: For Mechanical Engineering in private institutions, India offers several exceptional options beyond IITs and NITs that consistently deliver strong academic programs and impressive placement outcomes. The private engineering landscape includes both deemed universities and autonomous institutions with strong industry connections and modern infrastructure. VIT Vellore emerges as the top-ranked private engineering institution at NIRF rank 11, with Mechanical Engineering recording 50% placement rates and average packages around 7.59 LPA, attracting recruiters like Honda Motorcycles, Tata Consultancy Services, and Maruti Suzuki. BITS Pilani (NIRF rank 20) maintains nearly 95% placement rates in Mechanical Engineering with top companies like Mercedes, L&T, and BHEL recruiting graduates, demonstrating strong industry alignment. SRM Chennai (NIRF rank 13) reports 80-90% placement rates for Mechanical Engineering with over 5,000 annual job offers, though core mechanical branches face fewer opportunities compared to IT sectors. Manipal Institute of Technology shows a 77% overall placement rate with mechanical engineering students receiving average packages around 5-6 LPA from companies like Microsoft and Amazon. Thapar University Patiala achieves 80-90% placements in Mechanical Engineering with packages ranging from 6-17 LPA. Other notable institutions include Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (NIRF rank 23) with 80-95% mechanical placements and top recruiters like Caterpillar and L&T, PSG College of Technology achieving 90% placements with mechanical engineering packages up to 13 LPA, DJ Sanghvi College recording 95% mechanical placements, RV College of Engineering with 85% placement rates, SSN College Chennai with 91% mechanical placements and average packages of 6.76 LPA, BMS College of Engineering maintaining 80-100% placements, Lovely Professional University reporting 76.4% mechanical placements with highest packages reaching 54.9 LPA, COEP Pune with 78.98% mechanical placement rates, and VJTI Mumbai providing strong government institution alternatives. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Sir i am getting cse core at srm sonepat haryana should i join there as till now comedk counselling havent started i got 73274 rank in comedk exam also should i apply for kalinga as till now i think there are no vacant seats in kalinga university for cse core
Ans: Dhruv, SRM University Sonepat offers BTech CSE with a 95% placement rate in 2024, over 2,000 offers, and 315 recruiters, including TCS, HCL, Tech Mahindra, and Amazon, with the highest CSE package reported at ?30 LPA and an average package between ?4.5–6 LPA. The campus provides modern infrastructure, well-equipped labs, and a strong placement cell supporting internships and industry projects. The CSE curriculum is industry-oriented, with collaborations with companies like Amazon and Infosys, and 85% of graduates are placed within six months. However, the program is relatively new compared to established campuses, and students often need to supplement learning with self-initiated projects or internships. With a COMEDK rank of 73,274, your CSE options in top Bangalore colleges are limited, but you should still participate in COMEDK counseling as lower-tier colleges may have vacancies. For Kalinga University, CSE admissions are competitive, and as of now, there are reportedly no vacant seats, but you can check for management quota or apply directly if interested.

RECOMMENDATION: Join SRM Sonepat CSE as a secure option given its strong placement record, modern facilities, and industry exposure, but continue with COMEDK counseling for potential Bangalore opportunities and monitor Kalinga University for any CSE seat openings; prioritize the college with the best combination of placements, infrastructure, and learning environment. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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My rank in manipal institute of technology entrance test is 11481 and the cutoff for cse in mit Bangalore in round 2 was 11331 is there any chance for me to get cse in manipal bangalore in round 3 I got ece in mit Bangalore in round 2 and I also got cse in lpu if i couldn't get cse in 3rd round which option shall I choose
Ans: Kavitha, With a MET rank of 11,481 and the CSE cutoff for MIT Bangalore at 11,331 in round 2, your chances for CSE in round 3 are slim but not impossible, as cutoffs can slightly relax in later rounds due to withdrawals or seat upgradation. If CSE does not materialize, you currently hold ECE at MIT Bangalore, which is a strong program with 90–95% placement rates and an average package of ?10–12 LPA, benefiting from Bengaluru’s tech ecosystem and central Manipal placements. Alternatively, CSE at LPU is accessible, offering a 92%+ placement rate, modern labs, and top recruiters like Microsoft, Amazon, and TCS, but the national brand value and peer group are generally considered below MIT Bangalore. ECE at MIT Bangalore provides flexibility to move into IT/software roles, strong industry exposure, and excellent campus life, while LPU CSE offers a direct CS path but with a more regional reputation.

RECOMMENDATION: If CSE at MIT Bangalore is not allotted in round 3, prefer ECE at MIT Bangalore over LPU CSE for better placement outcomes, industry exposure, and long-term career prospects, especially if you are open to software roles after ECE. Choose LPU CSE only if your sole priority is a core CS degree and campus life is a secondary concern. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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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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