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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9126 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 24, 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
Suman Question by Suman on Aug 23, 2024Hindi
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This statement is a red flag - Investing through a CFP in regular funds ensures you have a partner in your financial journey, optimising returns while mitigating risks. Thank you for advice but now I am certain to keep away for CFP and continue to educate myself in financial planning and investment.

Ans: I respect your views and your commitment to self-education. However, investing through a CFP can add more value by providing tailored advice and expert insights, which can help optimize your financial journey.

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  |9126 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 25, 2024

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Thanks you Sir, I am based out in Pune but totally confused how to select a good CFP. Can you please help me in this like where to look for . Also , can you also suggest Mutual Funds which I can invest in on monthly basis and how much. Thank You
Ans: Please search for "online financial planning & Retirement planning services with a Holistic Approach" in Google and then follow the below steps with the results.

Research: Start by researching reputable brokerage firms that offer mutual fund advisory services. Look for firms with a strong track record, experienced financial advisors, and a range of services tailored to your needs.

Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the brokerage firm to discuss your financial goals, risk tolerance, investment preferences, and other relevant factors. This initial meeting will help the advisor understand your needs and recommend suitable investment strategies.

Advisory Services: Once you've selected a brokerage firm, the advisor will work with you to develop a personalized mutual fund investment plan. They will recommend specific funds based on your financial objectives and provide ongoing guidance to help you navigate the market.

Regular Reviews: Schedule periodic reviews with your advisor to assess the performance of your mutual fund investments, review changes in your financial situation, and make any necessary adjustments to your investment strategy.


By following these steps, you can access the expertise of professional brokerages to assist you in financial planning and investment management.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9126 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2024

Money
Hello, I'm 47 years old. Investing in SIP for last few years. 1.In cases,you have advised to switch funds in case of weak performance. Just wanted to know,how to switch. Say I'm with SBI blue chip fund but want to swith some other better performing large cap fund . Shall I stop SIP with SBI and start with others . Is that all ? If yes, what to do with accumulated fund with SBI. Redeem or not ? Kindly explain. 2. How to choose CFP ? I mean, need to check credential before putting all ur faith over a person for the future . Kindly elaborate.
Ans: Switching funds and choosing a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are important decisions. I understand the need for clarity in these areas. Let's dive into the details.

How to Switch Funds
Evaluating Current Fund Performance
First, you need to assess your current fund's performance. Check if the SBI Blue Chip Fund is consistently underperforming its benchmark and peers. Look at its returns over different periods and compare it with other large-cap funds.

Decision to Switch
If you decide to switch, the process involves stopping the SIP in the current fund and starting it in a better-performing fund. Here's how you can do it:

Stop SIP in Current Fund: Log into your mutual fund account or through the platform you use. Find the option to stop the SIP in the SBI Blue Chip Fund. This will halt future investments.

Start SIP in New Fund: Choose a new large-cap fund with a good track record. Set up a new SIP with the desired amount and tenure. Ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Managing Accumulated Funds
Now, you have to decide what to do with the accumulated funds in the SBI Blue Chip Fund.

Hold or Redeem: You can either hold the accumulated units or redeem them. Holding means you continue to benefit from any future growth. Redeeming allows you to reinvest in the new fund.

Reinvesting Redeemed Amount: If you choose to redeem, consider reinvesting the amount in the new large-cap fund. This can provide better returns if the new fund performs well.

Choosing a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Importance of a CFP
A CFP is crucial for personalized financial planning. They provide advice tailored to your financial situation, goals, and risk appetite. Choosing the right CFP is essential for your financial well-being.

Checking Credentials
When selecting a CFP, checking their credentials is vital. Here's how you can do it:

Certification Verification: Ensure the planner has the CFP certification from a recognized body. You can verify their certification online through official CFP websites.

Experience and Expertise: Look for a planner with substantial experience. Their expertise in handling various financial situations will be beneficial.

Client Testimonials and Reviews: Check for client testimonials and reviews. This gives insight into their service quality and client satisfaction.

Google Reviews: Google reviews can provide additional perspectives on the CFP's services. Look for consistent positive feedback.

Initial Complimentary Call: Have an initial complimentary call with the CFP. This helps you understand their approach and see if you're comfortable working with them.

Speak to Existing Customers: Speak to one of their existing customers. This helps you gauge if the CFP is trustworthy and reliable.

Questions to Ask
Before finalizing a CFP, ask these questions:

Fee Structure: Understand their fee structure. Ensure it's transparent and fits your budget.

Services Offered: Inquire about the services they offer. Ensure they cover all areas of financial planning relevant to you.

Investment Philosophy: Ask about their investment philosophy. Ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

It's great that you are proactive about your investments. Switching funds and choosing a good CFP shows your commitment to financial growth. Understanding these processes can seem overwhelming, but you're on the right track. Your efforts will pay off in the long run.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
Diversification
Mutual funds provide diversification by pooling money from many investors to invest in a variety of assets. This reduces risk by spreading investments across different securities.

Professional Management
Mutual funds are managed by professional fund managers who have the expertise to make informed investment decisions. This professional management can potentially lead to better returns.

Liquidity
Mutual funds offer high liquidity. You can buy and sell mutual fund units easily, providing quick access to your money when needed.

Convenience
Investing in mutual funds is convenient. With SIPs, you can invest a fixed amount regularly without worrying about market timing. This disciplined approach can lead to wealth accumulation over time.

Power of Compounding
The power of compounding in mutual funds can significantly grow your investment. Reinvesting your returns allows your money to earn returns on returns, leading to exponential growth over time.

Risk and Considerations
Market Risk
Mutual funds are subject to market risk. The value of investments can go up or down based on market conditions. Understanding your risk tolerance is essential.

Expense Ratios
Mutual funds come with expense ratios, which are fees charged for managing the fund. Higher expense ratios can impact your returns. Compare expense ratios while choosing funds.

Performance Variability
Not all mutual funds perform consistently. It's essential to review fund performance regularly and make necessary adjustments to your portfolio.

Final Insights
Switching funds and choosing a CFP requires careful consideration and planning. By evaluating fund performance and making informed decisions, you can optimize your investments. Choosing a CFP with the right credentials and expertise ensures you receive personalized financial guidance.

Remember, the goal is to align your investments with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Stay informed, review your investments regularly, and seek professional advice when needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9126 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2025

Money
Sir, I really appreciate the way you respond and suggestions to my queries. Also you have split my queries and respond such way that will easy to understood me and to help me towards achieving my goals. However, I have opened 02 traditional policy for my child before 3 yrs, which premium is around 25k each/yrs. should i stopped it or what?. However, you suggest that while choosing the MF ( regular funds) via MFD with CFP, avoid direct funds... not understood. The others suggestion s i will follow to build my child education and her future.. I am investing through " Sharekhan" and their suggested MF... Pls guide further to invest in good MF for my child and my self. Thanks again
Ans: You are taking thoughtful steps for your child’s future.

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About Traditional Policies for Your Child

These policies give very low returns, around 4% to 5% yearly.

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They also lack flexibility and are not inflation-beating.

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You can surrender both policies and reinvest the amount.

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Invest in mutual funds (regular) through a Certified Financial Planner instead.

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Difference Between Direct and Regular Mutual Funds

Direct funds look cheaper but give no personal advice or support.

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You are on your own during market ups and downs.

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Most investors make emotional mistakes with direct funds.

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Regular funds through MFDs with CFP support give goal-based guidance.

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You get help in selection, rebalancing, and tax-efficiency.

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That improves long-term results and discipline.

If you are investing thru a platform or just stock broking firm, yhey may not always suggest goal-based, unbiased options.

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A Certified Financial Planner works with your full picture.

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Choose funds that suit your goal, not just past return.

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For child’s education, start SIPs in actively managed equity mutual funds.

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Avoid index funds. They only follow average market return.

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Actively managed funds can outperform with expert fund managers.

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Track investments yearly with your planner to stay on track.

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |6718 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 22, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 19, 2025Hindi
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Hello, my daughter gave mah mca cet 2025 exam this year along with her bsc last year and scored 98.76 percentile in mca cet . What are her chances of getting spit mumbai in spot round ? How is vesit chembur in terms of placement ? Is it a good choice in Mumbai ? Please help us out
Ans: With a 98.76 percentile in MAH MCA CET, your daughter stands a good chance of getting an MCA seat at SPIT Mumbai in the spot round, as recent cutoffs for general category home state candidates have ranged from 98.32 to 99.47 percentile, and spot rounds often see slight relaxation in cutoffs. SPIT Mumbai is among the top MCA colleges in Maharashtra, offering robust infrastructure, experienced faculty, and a strong placement record, with top IT recruiters and consistently high placement rates. VESIT Chembur is also a reputable choice, with 75–80% MCA placement rates, an active placement cell, and major recruiters like Accenture, Capgemini, Deloitte, TCS, and Infosys, with average packages between ?4.5–8 lakh and a highest package of ?22 lakh in 2024. VESIT’s curriculum is comprehensive, infrastructure is good, and alumni support is strong, though hostel facilities are limited for MCA students and industry exposure through internships could be improved. The recommendation is to prioritize SPIT Mumbai for its slightly higher cutoff, stronger brand, and placement record, but VESIT Chembur is also a very good option for MCA in Mumbai if SPIT is not secured in the spot round. 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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