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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8859 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 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
Preetam Question by Preetam on May 20, 2024Hindi
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I have started investing 25000/month from Jan 24 in MF, I go on purchasing 5 Different funds of 5000 per month is it right or should I stick to some 5 funds with sip, every 6month's I will increase my investment by 10% my age is 47 and at 56 I am looking to get 1CR corpus

Ans: Evaluating Your Investment Strategy
Introduction
Congratulations on starting a disciplined investment journey. Investing ?25,000 per month and planning to increase it by 10% every six months shows a strong commitment.

Current Strategy Assessment
Investing in five different mutual funds each month is a diversified approach. However, consistency is key in mutual fund investments.

Benefits of Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
SIPs offer the advantage of rupee cost averaging and discipline. Sticking to a set of funds through SIPs ensures regular investments without market timing.

Diversification and Consistency
Diversification across different mutual funds is beneficial. However, investing in too many funds can lead to overlap and management challenges.

Recommended Approach
Stick to Consistent SIPs: Choose five well-performing funds and invest consistently in them via SIPs.

Review and Rebalance: Regularly review your funds' performance and rebalance if needed. This keeps your portfolio aligned with goals.

Fund Selection
Choose funds that align with your risk tolerance and financial goals. A mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds can provide balanced growth.

Suggested Allocation
Large-Cap Fund: ?5,000
Mid-Cap Fund: ?5,000
Multi-Cap Fund: ?5,000
Balanced Advantage Fund: ?5,000
Debt Fund: ?5,000
This allocation provides exposure to different market segments, ensuring diversification and stability.

Increasing Investments
Your plan to increase investments by 10% every six months is excellent. It leverages the power of compounding and accelerates wealth creation.

Example
Starting with ?25,000 and increasing by 10% every six months can significantly boost your corpus over nine years.

Achieving the ?1 Crore Goal
Your goal of accumulating ?1 crore by age 56 is achievable with disciplined investing and regular reviews.

Estimated Returns
Assuming a moderate annual return of 12%, your increasing SIP strategy can help you reach your target. The key is consistency and regular increments.

Monitoring and Adjusting
Regularly monitor your portfolio's performance. Make adjustments based on market conditions and fund performance. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized guidance.

Professional Advice
A CFP can help you navigate market complexities, select the right funds, and make necessary adjustments. They offer tailored advice aligning with your financial goals.

Conclusion
Sticking to a consistent SIP strategy with a mix of funds and increasing investments regularly is a prudent approach. Regular monitoring and professional advice can help you achieve your ?1 crore goal by age 56.

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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8859 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 05, 2024

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Hello Sir, My name is Girish aged 38 years and I need your suggestions on the MF. I have started SIP in the following mutual funds.1. ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund (G) - investing since a month - 5,000 per month 2. SBI Blue Chip Fund (G) - investing since a month - 5,000 per month 3. HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund - Direct Plan (IDCW) - investing since 14 months - 2,000 per month4. Nippon India Large Cap Fund - Regular Plan (G) - investing since 2 months - 2,000 per month 5. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - Direct Plan (G) - investing since 2 years - 2,000 per month 6. UTI MNC Fund - Direct Plan (G) - investing since 14 months - 2,000 per month I would like to know if my portfolio is good. I will be planning to invest for the next 10-15 years. What would be the corpus at the end of 15 years?Do you foresee any changes to be made in my portfolio? Please suggest.
Ans: Your portfolio consists of a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, balanced advantage, and sectoral funds, which provides diversification across different market segments. However, it's essential to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your long-term financial goals and risk tolerance.

Consider assessing the performance of each fund relative to its benchmark and peers. If any fund consistently underperforms or deviates significantly from its investment objective, you may consider replacing it with a better-performing alternative.

Additionally, ensure that your asset allocation reflects your risk profile and investment horizon. If you have a long-term investment horizon of 10-15 years, you may consider adding more exposure to equity funds for potentially higher returns.

As for the corpus at the end of 15 years, it would depend on various factors such as the performance of the funds, the consistency of your contributions, and market conditions. You may use online SIP calculators to estimate the potential corpus based on your ongoing SIP contributions and expected returns.

Consulting with a financial advisor can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances and objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8859 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2024

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I am 43 and want to get retire with at least 1.5cr through mf sip starting today. Total 10k per month for next 15 years as 2k in parag parikh flexi fund, 2k in canara robecco bluechip, 2k in quant active fund, 2k in mirae asset large midcap fund, 1k in motilal oswal focused fund and 1k in sbi focused equity fund. Is this good to have the above investment?
Ans: Starting your retirement planning at 43 with a clear goal of Rs. 1.5 crore is a great decision! Your choice of SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) is a smart way to invest regularly. Let's see how your chosen funds can help you reach your target.

Strengths of Your Plan:

Diversification: Your selection includes flexi-cap, blue-chip, large & mid-cap, and focused funds, offering diversification across market capitalizations and investment styles.
Long-Term Focus: A 15-year investment horizon allows you to benefit from the potential of equity markets for long-term growth.
Regular Investment: SIP ensures disciplined investing and benefits from rupee-cost averaging.
Points to Consider:

Target Achievement: Reaching Rs. 1.5 crore depends on market performance. Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market, but past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Asset Allocation: Review the percentage allocation across each fund category to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance.
Benefits of a CFP

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) professional can provide a more personalized assessment. They can help you:

Calculate Retirement Corpus: Determine the total investment amount needed for your desired retirement lifestyle.
Refine Asset Allocation: Ensure your chosen mix of funds matches your risk tolerance and goals.
Monitor & Rebalance: Track your portfolio performance and rebalance periodically to maintain your asset allocation.
Regular Plan vs Direct Plan

Regular plans with a CFP professional can offer some advantages over direct plans. A CFP can:

Minimize Costs: Help you potentially find ways to reduce investment expenses.
Stay on Track: Guide you through market volatility and keep you invested for the long term.
Remember:

Market fluctuations can impact your returns. However, your diversified approach, long-term focus, and SIP strategy are positive steps towards your Rs. 1.5 crore goal.

Next Steps:

Consider consulting a CFP professional for a detailed analysis of your plan.
Regularly monitor your portfolio performance and rebalance as needed.
Keep saving and investing for a happy retirement!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8859 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 20, 2025

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Hi Gurus , Finally last month I have started my investment in MF thru sip in following funds *Hdfc mid cap direct 4k* *tata small direct 4k* *Sbi bluechip direct4k* *Paragh flexi direct 4k* I did all sip through grow app I will wait next 15- 20years is this good any suggestions
Ans: Investing in mutual funds is a step in the right direction. Your portfolio showcases diversity and long-term focus. A 15–20-year horizon is excellent for wealth creation. Let’s review and refine your strategy.

Portfolio Review
Mid-Cap Funds
Mid-cap funds offer a mix of growth and risk. They outperform large-caps over the long term.

Small-Cap Funds
Small-cap funds are ideal for aggressive growth. However, they are more volatile.

Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds provide stability in your portfolio. They act as a cushion during downturns.

Flexi-Cap Funds
Flexi-cap funds are versatile. They allocate dynamically across market capitalisations.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
While direct funds save commission costs, they require constant monitoring.

Professional Expertise Lacking
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures a well-structured portfolio.

Market Timing Risk
Direct investors may make emotional decisions during volatility.

Portfolio Review
Regular funds offer continuous reviews by professionals.

Holistic Financial Guidance
An MFD with CFP certification provides personalised investment advice.

Suggestions for Improvement
Your portfolio is good but can be fine-tuned for better results.

Diversification Across Categories
Add a hybrid or balanced fund to reduce risk.

Sectoral Funds
If confident, allocate a small portion to sectoral funds.

Avoid Overlapping Funds
Check for duplication of holdings in existing funds.

Taxation Impact
New taxation rules make tax-efficient investing important.

Equity Funds
Long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-Term Capital Gains
Gains from investments held for less than one year are taxed at 20%.

Plan Tax-Efficient Withdrawals
Use these rules for optimal tax management at redemption.

Benefits of Staying Invested
Compounding Benefits
Long-term investing amplifies wealth through compounding.

Mitigates Volatility
Staying invested reduces the impact of market fluctuations.

Goal-Oriented Investing
A 15–20-year horizon aligns with long-term goals.

Actionable Steps
Consolidate Portfolio
Avoid too many funds. Stick to 4–5 well-performing ones.

Periodic Reviews
Review your portfolio every year with a CFP for alignment with goals.

Reinvest in Underperformers
Switch funds only if underperformance persists for 2–3 years.

Consider Professional Advice
Switch from direct to regular funds for expert guidance.

Final Insights
Your SIP strategy is on the right track. Small adjustments can optimise it further. Focus on professional advice and consistent reviews to maximise returns.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Janak

Janak Patel  |45 Answers  |Ask -

MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jun 05, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 02, 2025
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Hi I am 32 years old working in IT, I want to retire from IT. I have a monthly expenses of 50k, 10L in bank and 12L in stocks. My question is: 1) what is the corpus amount to meet my monthly expenses? (Generate a revenue to cover my monthly expenses while corpus being invested in FD. considering inflation, and with the life expectancy 70 years) 2) at what age I can safely retire?
Ans: Hi,

Your current savings/investment of 22L will support your expenses for only a few years at this time.

Today if you wish to retire, you will need over 2 crores in FD earning 7% returns to last for your life expectancy of 70 years.

I recommend you focus on saving and investing across different asset classes to maximize your corpus over time. Different asset classes like equity, debt, gold etc can provide you well diversified option to generate wealth and provide stability and liquidity.

FDs are a safe option but its safety net if not going to cover your whole corpus if the bank fails.

Understand the potential, risk and returns of different asset classes and considering the long time period you have, you can save over the next 10-15 years and then plan retirement once your retirement corpus is accumulated.
Mutual funds are a good option to consider as they cover few asset classes and are easy to manage and track.

The retirement corpus depends on the time period post retirement and the expense you plan to cover from it. Accumulating that corpus also needs a plan and commitment to save/invest on a regular basis.

Thanks & Regards
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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8859 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 05, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 05, 2025
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I am a retired person age 63. I need financial assistance as to how to use my funds. I have sold an property in July 2024 and kept an amount of Rs. 35L in capital gain account. As per inflation rate calculation, I have sold this properly in loss and there should be no tax deduction. Can I withdraw this fund and use in some other means Please advice. I have other savings. Approx. 34L are there in MF, I have a monthly SIP of Rs.16K. I have a PPF savings of Rs. 28L. I have approx. 7L in SB account. I have a LIC policy for which I shall get a lumpsum amount of approx. 12L in 2028. I have a plan to purchase a property in Delhi for Rs. 90L-1Cr. I also need some monthly income for monthly expenses. Please advice how I can use these funds for better benefits etc. and a monthly return for daily hope expenses.
Ans: You have built a respectable portfolio post-retirement. It shows you have taken prudent decisions in the past. Now the focus should be on creating monthly income, managing risks, and making sure your funds are used wisely without stress. Let us go step-by-step to build a clear plan for you.

Capital Gains Account – What You Can and Cannot Do
You deposited Rs. 35 lakhs in a capital gains account in July 2024.

You believe the sale was at a loss after adjusting for inflation.

Capital Gain Account Scheme is meant only for buying or constructing a house.

Funds must be used within 2 years (for purchase) or 3 years (for construction).

If you don’t use the amount within the allowed time, it is treated as capital gain.

You may be taxed on it in the year when the deadline ends.

Even if you made a loss, the income tax department needs documentation to accept it.

If you wish to withdraw this money for other uses, you must close the account formally.

You must submit Form G to your bank, explaining why you want to withdraw.

If you do not use this money for property purchase, it may be taxed.

Please speak to a chartered accountant for exact tax impact before withdrawal.

Avoid using this fund until you have tax clarity and proper documentation.

Your Monthly Income Requirement – First Focus Area
As a retired person, your priority is monthly income and capital safety.

Let us assume you need Rs. 35,000–40,000 per month for living expenses.

This amount must come from interest or investment income, not from selling assets.

You currently have SIP of Rs. 16,000/month and Rs. 34 lakh in mutual funds.

You can start a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from these mutual funds.

Start with Rs. 25,000 monthly withdrawal for the next 6–12 months.

The SIP can continue at Rs. 16,000 if cash flow allows.

Top up the balance Rs. 10,000–15,000 monthly from your savings account.

If needed, use PPF interest, which is tax-free, to manage shortfall.

Your Savings Account – Ideal Usage Strategy
Rs. 7 lakh in your savings account is good but should not stay idle.

Shift Rs. 4 lakh to a short-term debt mutual fund or liquid fund.

Keep Rs. 3 lakh as emergency fund in savings for medical or urgent needs.

Don’t keep all in one bank. Use 2 banks if needed for safety.

Mutual Funds Portfolio – Core Strategy and Monthly Income
Rs. 34 lakh in mutual funds is a strong base.

Continue with only regular plans via MFD who is also a CFP.

Avoid direct funds. They don’t provide guidance or timely review.

You need periodic rebalancing based on your retirement age and market cycle.

Use actively managed balanced advantage and hybrid funds.

These provide equity growth with stability and lower downside risk.

Withdraw using SWP from these funds to generate regular income.

Start with 4–5% annual withdrawal. Increase slowly if needed.

Avoid index funds. They just copy the market and offer no risk control.

In falling markets, actively managed funds protect capital better.

Your Certified Financial Planner can guide which funds to choose and exit.

PPF – How to Use the Rs. 28 Lakhs Safely
You have Rs. 28 lakh in PPF. It is 100% tax-free and safe.

Do not withdraw unless very urgent.

PPF earns steady interest every year without risk.

You can extend PPF in 5-year blocks with or without fresh contributions.

Use it as a reserve to support health care or large expenses.

Don’t touch this for property investment unless no other option exists.

LIC Policy – Planning the Maturity in 2028
You will receive Rs. 12 lakh in 2028.

This can be a good future buffer for medical or long-term care.

LIC returns are usually lower than mutual funds.

Once you receive the maturity, shift the amount to mutual funds.

Start a fresh SWP from this amount in 2029, if needed.

Don’t invest this lump sum again in insurance products.

Real Estate Purchase Plan – Review It Carefully
You are planning to buy a property worth Rs. 90 lakh to Rs. 1 crore.

Please think twice before locking big money in real estate.

Real estate gives zero liquidity and high maintenance cost.

Selling real estate later can be slow and stressful.

Rental income is not guaranteed and is often low compared to invested corpus.

You will be forced to withdraw from mutual funds or PPF for down payment.

This will reduce your income-generating assets.

Instead of buying, consider staying on rent.

This will keep your money free, accessible, and invested.

In case of emergency or health issues, liquid investments help more.

Buying property now will break your cash flow and lower monthly income.

Think from a cash flow view, not emotional attachment.

Suggested Investment Allocation from Available Corpus
Rs. 35 lakh: Keep in CGAS till you get tax clarity.

Rs. 34 lakh in Mutual Funds: Keep 75% in hybrid and 25% in large-cap funds.

Rs. 28 lakh PPF: Keep untouched. Extend for 5 years post-maturity.

Rs. 7 lakh in SB: Keep Rs. 3 lakh in savings. Shift Rs. 4 lakh to debt funds.

Rs. 12 lakh LIC maturity: Plan to move to mutual funds in 2028.

Emergency and Health Safety – Must for Seniors
Health costs are unpredictable.

Ensure you have a health insurance of Rs. 10–15 lakh with good hospitals covered.

Don’t depend only on savings for health expenses.

You can keep Rs. 5 lakh in liquid funds only for health emergencies.

Also keep one family member informed of your accounts and investments.

Key Investment Mistakes to Avoid at This Stage
Don’t invest in ULIPs, endowment plans, or pension-linked policies now.

Don’t go for annuity schemes. Returns are very low and taxable.

Avoid fixed deposits for long term. Interest is taxable and eroded by inflation.

Don’t follow friends’ tips or invest in trends blindly.

Do not invest based on emotions or fear of missing out.

Focus on regular monthly return and capital safety, not risky growth.

Finally
You have done well in building assets before retirement.

The next goal is to convert your assets into reliable monthly income.

Do not rush into buying real estate. Keep cash flow strong and flexible.

Focus on mutual fund-based SWP for income and keep PPF as reserve.

Use a Certified Financial Planner to manage fund review and tax planning.

Avoid unnecessary complications and risky options.

Stay invested wisely. Protect your retirement with safe, planned income.

Regular check-ins and fund reviews every 6 months will help adjust your plan.

With good planning, you can enjoy peace, safety, and dignity in retirement.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Janak

Janak Patel  |45 Answers  |Ask -

MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jun 05, 2025

Money
I AM 80 YEARS OLD AND STILL WORKING AS A Consultant AND EARNING RS.1.5 LAKHS PER MONTH. I HAVE A CORPUS OF 182 LAKHS CONSISTING OF MF/ FD/ AND STOCKS. I CONTEMPLATE RETIRING IN 6 MONTHS. REQUEST PL.SUGGEST IF MY CURRENT CORPUS WILL SUFFICE UNTIL AGE OF 95. MY MONTHLY EXPENSES ARE RS.50000.00. I HAVE NO LIABILITY AND MY WIFE IS THE ONLY DEPENDENT. SELF AND WIFE ARE CO.VERED UNDER MEDICLAIM.AWAITING UR VALUED OPINION
Ans: Hi Sivaramakrishnan,

Congratulations on having an active working life at the age of 80.

For your monthly expenses of Rs 50000 and assuming an inflation of 7% over the next 15 years, you require approx. Rs 85 lakhs (today).

You already have Rs 182 lakhs (not including any further savings over the next 6 months) invested across MF/ FD/ and STOCKS.

I recommend you have a systematic withdrawal plan from your investments for your annual expenses.
Depending on how you have spread your investments, you can decide on the approach.
For MFs - its simple to do a SWP for an amount each month.
For FDs - you may need to liquidate them, so instead of breaking them, plan to use them at their maturity if its within six months of your requirement. if the maturity is long term, and you have a need then you may need to liquidate. Also check if there is an option to make them Sweep-in type FD, which means that when your account has less balance, it will move money from FD to account. Discuss with your bank on options available to you.
For Stocks - You can decide when to liquidate them. If you wish to move away from stocks, then you can consider investing in so hybrid Mutual fund schemes considering your time horizon.

Overall you will be looking to grow approx. Rs 1 crore over the next 15 years and this can grow to an amount of Rs 3 crores at 8% returns.

So your current corpus is more than sufficient and even if you increase your monthly expenses, you will have a surplus after 15 years.
Happy retirement and a healthy life ahead.

Thanks & Regards
Janak Patel
Certified Financial Planner.

...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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