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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 23, 2025

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
Sushmitha Question by Sushmitha on Dec 22, 2025Hindi
Money

Hi Sir, I started a SIP of 3k from 3months investing in Nipon India Small Cap fund. I started investing via \xis bank mobile app. Please suggest me if thats the safe way to do through bank app. And I am willing to start another SIP of 3k per month. Planning to do it on groww app. Please suggest some good SIP plans and guide me on how good and safe to start via groww app.

Ans: I appreciate your early step into disciplined investing.
Starting SIPs shows long-term thinking.
Beginning small builds confidence and learning.
Your willingness to ask questions is healthy.

» Your Current SIP Action Review
– You started SIP of Rs 3,000 monthly.
– SIP duration is three months.
– Investment is through a bank mobile app.

This shows good initiative.
Early habits shape future wealth.

» Understanding Your Chosen Fund Category
– The fund belongs to small-sized companies category.
– Such funds are high risk.
– Such funds give high volatility.

Returns can be uneven yearly.
Patience is very important here.

» Suitability Of Small Company Funds
– Small companies grow faster sometimes.
– They also fall harder during corrections.
– Not suitable as first-only investment.

Exposure should be limited initially.
Balance is essential.

» Starting Early
– You started without waiting for perfection.
– Many delay investing unnecessarily.
– Action matters more than perfection.

This mindset helps long-term success.

» Risk Awareness Is Necessary
– Small company funds fluctuate sharply.
– Short-term losses are common.
– Emotional control is required.

Three months is too short to judge.
Time horizon should be long.

» Minimum Suggested Time Horizon
– Such funds need at least seven years.
– Shorter periods cause disappointment.
– SIP helps reduce timing risk.

Consistency matters more than returns initially.

» Bank App As Investment Platform
– Bank apps are generally safe.
– Transactions are regulated.
– Holdings are stored with registrars.

Platform safety is not the main risk.
Investment choice matters more.

» Limitations Of Bank Apps
– Limited guidance provided.
– Product pushing is common.
– Advice is not personalised.

Banks focus on convenience.
Planning depth is usually missing.

» Bank Staff Support Limitations
– Staff change frequently.
– Knowledge levels vary.
– Long-term accountability is absent.

This affects continuity of advice.

» Safety Of Investments Versus Platform
– Funds are held in your PAN.
– Platform failure does not erase investments.
– Units remain safe with fund house.

So platform safety fear is minimal.
Decision quality matters more.

» Planning Another SIP Thought
– You want another Rs 3,000 SIP.
– Total SIP becomes Rs 6,000 monthly.

This is positive growth behaviour.
But structure needs correction.

» Platform Comparison Perspective
– You plan using another app.
– Such apps promote self investing.
– Guidance quality is limited.

Ease should not replace planning.

» Direct Platform Reality Check
– Such apps promote direct plans.
– Expense difference looks attractive.
– But hidden costs exist.

Cost is not only expense ratio.
Mistakes cost more.

» Disadvantages Of Direct Plans
– No personalised advice.
– No behaviour guidance during falls.
– No portfolio review support.

Investors act emotionally without guidance.
This hurts returns badly.

» Decision Errors In Direct Investing
– Panic selling during market falls.
– Overconfidence during rallies.
– Frequent fund switching.

These mistakes destroy compounding.
They are very common.

» Lack Of Accountability In Apps
– Apps do not call you.
– Apps do not stop wrong actions.
– Responsibility lies fully on investor.

This is risky for beginners.

» Why Regular Plans Add Value
– Guidance helps discipline.
– Asset allocation stays balanced.
– Behavioural mistakes reduce.

Value is beyond commission.
Support matters during volatility.

» Role Of MFD With CFP Credential
– Certified Financial Planner gives structure.
– Advice aligns with goals.
– Long-term handholding exists.

This improves investment experience.
Returns become smoother.

» Cost Versus Value Perspective
– Direct plans save small percentage.
– Wrong decisions lose big percentages.

Net outcome matters more.
Peace of mind matters too.

» Your Current Portfolio Concentration Risk
– Only one equity category exposure exists.
– Risk is concentrated.
– Diversification is missing.

This increases volatility risk.
Balance is needed urgently.

» Importance Of Diversification
– Different funds behave differently.
– Market cycles impact unevenly.
– Balance reduces shock.

Diversification improves consistency.

» Ideal SIP Structure For Beginners
– One aggressive component.
– One stable growth component.
– One flexible allocation component.

This spreads risk evenly.
Comfort increases automatically.

» Why Avoid Multiple Apps
– Tracking becomes confusing.
– Discipline weakens.
– Reviews become difficult.

One guided platform is better.
Simplicity improves adherence.

» Data Security Perspective
– Apps are regulated.
– Data security standards exist.
– Risk is minimal.

But advice quality remains missing.

» Behaviour During Market Corrections
– Small company funds fall sharply.
– Beginners panic easily.
– SIP stoppage becomes tempting.

Guidance prevents wrong reactions.

» Emotional Support Value
– Markets test patience.
– Fear appears suddenly.
– Someone must guide.

Apps cannot replace humans here.

» Why Starting With Only Small Companies Is Risky
– Volatility is high.
– Returns are uneven.
– Confidence may break early.

Balanced start builds trust.

» Gradual Exposure Approach
– Start with core stability.
– Add aggression slowly.
– Increase risk with experience.

This improves journey comfort.

» SIP Amount Increase Strategy
– Rs 6,000 is fine initially.
– Increase annually with income growth.
– Discipline matters more than amount.

Time creates wealth here.

» Tax Awareness Brief
– Equity funds tax applies on selling.
– Long-term gains have limits.
– Short-term gains are taxed higher.

Holding longer improves efficiency.

» Avoid Frequent Changes
– Switching funds harms compounding.
– Costs increase silently.
– Discipline reduces regret.

Stick to strategy firmly.

» Monitoring Frequency
– Review once a year.
– Avoid monthly checking.
– Noise causes confusion.

Long-term vision matters.

» Avoid Social Media Influence
– Tips are often misleading.
– Past returns are highlighted.
– Risk is hidden.

Structured advice avoids traps.

» Role Of Goal Mapping
– Define why you invest.
– Time horizon matters.
– Risk choice depends on goals.

Without goals, investing feels stressful.

» Emergency Fund Reminder
– Keep emergency money separate.
– Do not mix with SIPs.
– Liquidity is essential.

This prevents SIP stoppage.

» Insurance And Protection Check
– Health cover should be adequate.
– Life cover matters if dependents exist.

Protection supports investment continuity.

» Long-Term Wealth Mindset
– Wealth grows slowly.
– Patience beats intelligence.
– Process beats prediction.

Consistency wins always.

» Common Beginner Mistakes To Avoid
– Chasing last year returns.
– Using too many apps.
– Ignoring allocation balance.

Awareness saves money.

» How A CFP Helps In SIP Planning
– Designs suitable allocation.
– Reviews yearly changes.
– Guides during volatility.

This partnership adds value.

» Confidence Building Perspective
– You already started investing.
– You are learning actively.
– Improvement is natural.

This journey will get smoother.

» Platform Safety Final View
– Bank app is safe.
– App based platforms are safe.
– Investment safety lies with fund house.

Decision quality matters more.

» Final Insights
– Starting SIP is a good step.
– Small company exposure is risky alone.
– Diversification is necessary now.
– Avoid self-direct platforms initially.
– Regular plans with CFP guidance add value.
– Consistency and discipline build wealth.

You are on the right path.
Correct structure will improve outcomes.

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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Hi I have started SIP through GROWW from December 2023 with ICICI prudential commodities fund direct growth 1000 Rs ICICI prudential bluechip fund direct growth 500 Rs Nippon India multicap fund direct growth 100 Rs and SBI long term equity fund 500 per month.currently I m 45 and am retiring at age of 60 from govt services .is this selection right for long-term wealth creation or needs modification. Regards Manzar
Ans: Your choice of SIPs through GROWW reflects a proactive step towards wealth creation for your retirement. However, considering the long-term horizon until your retirement at age 60, a few adjustments may be beneficial for optimal results:

Diversification: While your selected funds cover different market segments, you may consider diversifying further across asset classes like debt or international funds to spread risk.
Professional Guidance: Engaging with a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) in a regular plan can offer personalized advice and emotional support, particularly for long-term goals like retirement planning.
Review and Monitoring: Regularly review your portfolio's performance and align it with changing market conditions and your evolving financial goals. Periodic rebalancing may be necessary to maintain optimal asset allocation.
Risk Assessment: Evaluate the risk profile of each fund in your portfolio and ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.
Retirement Corpus Calculation: Consider estimating the desired corpus required for your retirement lifestyle and adjust your SIP contributions accordingly to meet this goal.
Tax Planning: Factor in tax implications on your investments and explore tax-efficient options like Equity Linked Saving Schemes (ELSS) for potential tax savings.
Professional Consultation: Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner or Mutual Fund Distributor for a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your retirement aspirations and financial situation.
Remember, investing is a long-term journey, and periodic review and adjustments are essential to stay on track towards achieving your financial goals.

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

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Hi sir, I am fifty years old. I was already invested one month ago 12,50,000/- in SBI equity regular growth mutual fund. Now, I am planning to start SIP and monthly 5,000/-. Kindly, advice me for the SIP. Thanks.
Ans: It's excellent to see your commitment to investing, especially as you plan for your financial future. Let's explore your options for starting a SIP:

• Given your existing investment of 12,50,000/- in SBI Equity Regular Growth Mutual Fund, it's clear you're already on the path to building wealth.
• Adding a monthly SIP of 5,000/- will further enhance your investment strategy and help you achieve your financial goals.

• When selecting a SIP, consider factors like your investment horizon, risk tolerance, and financial objectives.
• As you're fifty years old, it's essential to strike a balance between growth potential and stability in your investment choices.

• Equity mutual funds offer growth potential but also come with higher volatility. Since you're already invested in SBI Equity Regular Growth Mutual Fund, you may want to diversify your portfolio with a different category of mutual fund.
• Debt mutual funds or balanced funds could be suitable options to consider, offering a more conservative approach while still providing potential for growth.

• Additionally, ensure you choose a SIP with a reputable fund house and a track record of consistent performance.
• Look for funds that align with your investment goals and have a proven track record of delivering returns over the long term.

• As a Certified Financial Planner, I'm here to guide you in selecting the right SIP to complement your existing investment and financial objectives.
• We'll evaluate various mutual fund options, assess their suitability for your portfolio, and ensure they align with your risk profile and investment horizon.

• Remember, investing is a journey, and it's essential to stay disciplined and patient.
• By making informed decisions and staying focused on your long-term goals, you can achieve financial success.

• If you have any further questions or need assistance in selecting a SIP, feel free to reach out.
• Your commitment to investing is commendable, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 2024

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Hi sir, i want to start sip.. This will be my ist investment so what would your suggestion like on which categories should i invest or what should be my breakup.. I want to invest 5000 now then after few months 10k and around 2 year from now 22k...my target amount is 25 lacs within 5 yrs
Ans: Starting SIPs for your first investment is a great step towards building wealth over time. Since you have a target amount of 25 lakhs within a 5-year timeframe, it's essential to choose investment options that offer the potential for growth while managing risk. Here's a suggested approach for your SIP investment:
1. Diversified Equity Funds: Since your investment horizon is relatively short (5 years), it's crucial to focus on funds that offer growth potential while minimizing risk. Consider allocating a significant portion of your SIP towards diversified equity funds, which invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. These funds offer diversification across market segments and can potentially deliver higher returns over the long term. Aim to allocate around 60-70% of your SIP towards diversified equity funds.
2. Large Cap Funds: Large-cap funds invest in stocks of large, well-established companies with stable earnings and strong market presence. These funds offer stability and are relatively less volatile compared to mid-cap and small-cap funds. Consider allocating around 20-30% of your SIP towards large-cap funds to provide stability to your portfolio.
3. Mid Cap and Small Cap Funds (Optional): Mid-cap and small-cap funds have the potential to deliver higher returns but come with higher volatility. Given your relatively short investment horizon, consider allocating a smaller portion of your SIP (around 10-20%) towards mid-cap and small-cap funds, if you're comfortable with the higher risk associated with these segments.
4. Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) vs. Lump Sum: Since you're just starting, opting for SIPs can be a prudent approach, as they allow you to invest regularly over time and benefit from rupee cost averaging. As your investment horizon is relatively short, avoid making lump sum investments, as they may expose you to timing risk, especially considering market fluctuations.
5. Regular Review and Adjustment: Regularly review your investment portfolio and make adjustments as needed to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. As your investment horizon progresses and your financial situation changes, consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or financial advisor to reassess your investment strategy and make any necessary adjustments.
By following this approach and staying committed to your investment plan, you'll be well-positioned to achieve your target amount of 25 lakhs within a 5-year timeframe. Remember to stay disciplined, focus on the long term, and avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 18, 2024Hindi
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Hi...I am planning to invest in SIP through Groww app..need some inputs on how reliable and advisable it is to invest through app since SIPs typically run for long term(15-20 yrs). This tomorrow if this app goes away then how would I manage my SIPs (top ups or withdraw etc..).. Thanks in advance!!!
Ans: Evaluating the Reliability of Investing Through Groww App
Investing through mobile apps like Groww has its advantages, but it's crucial to consider the potential drawbacks, especially for long-term investments like SIPs.

Convenience vs. Reliability
Accessibility and Convenience
Apps like Groww offer unparalleled convenience, allowing you to invest anytime, anywhere, with just a few clicks.

Reliability Concerns
However, relying solely on app-based platforms for long-term investments may pose risks, particularly if the app faces technical issues or ceases operations in the future.

Safeguards and Contingency Plans
Regulatory Compliance
While Groww may comply with regulatory requirements, the absence of a physical presence may make it challenging to address issues promptly.

Contingency Plans
Investors should develop contingency plans to manage their SIPs effectively in case the app becomes inaccessible or shuts down unexpectedly.

Portfolio Management and Monitoring
Long-Term Commitment
Managing SIPs for 15-20 years requires consistent monitoring and strategic adjustments, which may be challenging through app-based platforms alone.

Professional Guidance
Mutual Fund Distributors (MFDs) with CFP credentials offer personalized advice and ongoing support, ensuring that your investment strategy remains aligned with your long-term goals.

Disadvantages of App-based Investing
Dependency on Technology
Relying solely on app-based platforms exposes investors to the risk of technological glitches or disruptions, potentially impacting their investment journey.

Limited Support
While apps like Groww may offer customer support, it may not match the level of assistance and expertise provided by MFDs.

Benefits of Regular Funds through MFDs
Personalized Guidance
MFDs offer personalized guidance tailored to your financial objectives, ensuring that your investment strategy remains on track.

Flexibility and Accessibility
Investors can access a wide range of investment options and receive timely assistance from MFDs, enhancing their investment experience.

Conclusion
While app-based platforms like Groww offer convenience, it's essential to recognize the limitations and risks associated with long-term investments like SIPs. Partnering with a Certified Financial Planner and leveraging the expertise of Mutual Fund Distributors can provide the necessary support and guidance to navigate the complexities of long-term investing effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 04, 2024

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I m 31 year old and i m investing in sip of 10000 in groww app Nippon india large cap fund 3000, large cap Icici prudential bluechip fund 3000, large cap Sbi magnum mid cap direct fund 2000, mid cap Qunt small cap fund,,1000, small cap and Parag parikh flexi cap fund 1000 So my goal is 1 cr after 15 year. So my fund selection is correct or not pls suggest me. I m just start sip on 3 of june 2024.
Ans: Evaluating Your SIP Portfolio
Commendations on embarking on your SIP journey, a wise move towards securing your financial future. Let's delve deeper into your fund selection and assess its alignment with your goal of accumulating Rs 1 crore in 15 years.

Assessing Fund Selection
Your portfolio encompasses a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, each carrying distinct risk and return profiles.

Large-cap Funds
Investments in large-cap funds offer stability and lower volatility, typically in established companies with robust fundamentals.

Mid-cap and Small-cap Funds
Mid-cap and small-cap funds present higher growth potential but come with increased volatility, investing in smaller companies with prospects for rapid expansion.

Evaluating Growth Potential
Your inclination towards mid-cap and small-cap funds suggests a quest for higher growth potential. However, it's vital to weigh the associated risks.

Analyzing Fund Selection
Nippon India Large Cap Fund, ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund, and SBI Magnum Mid Cap Direct Fund are reputable choices with established track records. Regular monitoring of their performance is essential.

SIP Amount Allocation
Allocating Rs 3,000 each to large-cap funds and Rs 2,000 to a mid-cap fund exhibits a balanced approach. Yet, investing only Rs 1,000 in a small-cap fund may limit its impact on your portfolio's growth potential.

Rebalancing Strategy
Regularly review your portfolio and rebalance if needed to ensure alignment with your risk tolerance and financial objectives.

Market Conditions
Stay abreast of market conditions, as they significantly influence fund performance. Knowledge of economic trends facilitates informed decision-making.

Importance of Patience
Investing is a long-term endeavor; exercising patience and avoiding impulsive decisions amidst short-term market fluctuations is prudent.

Professional Guidance
Consider seeking advice from a certified financial planner to optimize your investment strategy. They offer personalized recommendations tailored to your risk profile and financial goals.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem appealing but demand active management and market expertise. Regular funds through an MFD with CFP credential ensure professional management and guidance, optimizing fund performance.

Conclusion
Your SIP portfolio displays promise, with a diversified allocation across market segments. Regular monitoring and professional guidance are imperative for achieving your goal of accumulating Rs 1 crore in 15 years.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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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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