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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6266 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 03, 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
SHAILESH Question by SHAILESH on Jul 30, 2024Hindi
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Is it still prudent to continue investing in equity mutual fund by SIP method when BSE is 81000+ level, or one need to switch to debt funds.

Ans: Understanding Market Levels

BSE at 81000+ is just a number
It doesn't always mean the market is overvalued
Many factors affect market levels

Benefits of SIP in Equity Funds

SIP helps in averaging out your purchase cost
It removes the need to time the market
Disciplined investing leads to long-term wealth creation

Actively Managed Funds Advantage

Fund managers can adjust to market conditions
They can find good stocks even in high markets
This flexibility can lead to better returns

Long-term Perspective

Equity investments work best over long periods
Short-term market levels shouldn't worry long-term investors
Historical data shows markets grow over time

Risk Management

Don't put all your money in equity funds
Keep a mix of equity and debt based on your goals
This balance helps manage risk

SIP During High Markets

High markets can be good for SIP
You buy fewer units when prices are high
This averages out your overall purchase price

Debt Funds: A Complementary Approach

Debt funds can provide stability to your portfolio
They are not a replacement for equity funds
Use them as part of a balanced investment strategy

Regular Review is Key

Check your investment mix every 6 months
Adjust based on your goals and market conditions
Don't make sudden changes based on short-term market movements

Seeking Professional Guidance

A Certified Financial Planner can help you decide
They consider your personal financial goals and risk tolerance
Professional advice can prevent emotional investment decisions

Finally
Continuing SIP in equity funds can be smart even at high market levels. Balance your portfolio with some debt funds. Regular review and professional guidance can help you stay on track.
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 am investing in following funds through SIP 1. HDFC top 200 Regular Growth since 2010 Rs. 3000 2. ICICI PRUDENTIAL LARGE & MIDCAP FUND GROWTH SINCE 2014 Rs. 2000 3. BANDHAN FLEXICAP FUND-GROWTH SINCE 2011 Rs. 2000 4. BSL FRONTLINE EQUITY FUND - GROWTH SINCE 2010 Rs. 3000 (STOPPED SIP IN 2020) 5. MIRAE ASSET BLUECHIP FUND - GROWTH SINCE 2021 Rs. 2500 6. HDFC FLEXI CAP - GROWTH SINCE 2022 Rs. 5500 PLEASE ADVICE ME WHETHER I SHOULD CONTINUE WITH THESE FUNDS OR EXIT. I FURTHER WANT TO INVEST Rs. 15000 MORE. PLEASE SUGGEST WHETHER I SHOULD INCREASE SIP AMOUNT IN THESE FUNDS OR START SIP IN NEW FUND
Ans: Assessing Your Mutual Fund Investments and Planning for the Future

Your portfolio demonstrates a disciplined approach to mutual fund investing over the years. Let's evaluate your current holdings and chart a course for future investments.

Analyzing Existing SIPs

HDFC Top 200, ICICI Prudential Large & Midcap, and Bandhan Flexicap Funds have been part of your investment journey for several years. These funds offer exposure to different market segments, providing diversification benefits.

BSL Frontline Equity Fund, while stopped in 2020, has a long track record of performance. It's essential to review the reasons for discontinuing this SIP and assess whether it aligns with your current investment strategy.

Mirae Asset Bluechip Fund and HDFC Flexi Cap Fund, initiated more recently, contribute to diversification and may offer growth potential.

Evaluating Performance and Suitability

Review the performance of each fund relative to its benchmark and peer group. Assess whether the fund manager's investment approach and strategy align with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Consider the consistency of returns, risk-adjusted performance, and fund management quality. Additionally, evaluate the fund's expense ratio and turnover ratio to ensure cost-effectiveness.

Deciding Whether to Continue or Exit

Continue SIPs in funds with consistent performance, robust fundamentals, and alignment with your investment goals.

Consider exiting funds that consistently underperform their benchmarks or peers, have experienced significant changes in fund management, or deviate from your risk profile.

Planning Additional Investments

Given your intention to invest an additional Rs. 15,000, consider the following options:

Increase SIP amounts in existing funds with proven track records and growth potential. This approach maintains continuity and capitalizes on the strengths of your current portfolio.

Explore new funds that complement your existing holdings and provide exposure to underrepresented sectors or asset classes. Conduct thorough research and seek professional advice to identify suitable options.

Seeking Professional Guidance

As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend conducting a comprehensive portfolio review to ensure alignment with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Regular monitoring and periodic adjustments are essential to optimize your investment outcomes.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6266 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 19, 2024

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Sir, I have SIPs in following fund: 1) ICICI Pru Bluechip Fund - Rs. 2000; 2) Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund - Rs. 1000; 3) HSBC Mid Cap Fund - Rs. 2000; 4) Nippon Small Cap Fund - Rs. 1000; 5) ICICI Pru Flexicap Fund - Rs. 2000; 6) HDFC Flexicap Fund - Rs. 2000; 7) ICICI Nifty IT Index Fund - Rs. 1000; 8) Motilal S&P 500 Fund - Rs. 1000; 9) Nippon India Silver ETF FOF - Rs. 1000. Should I continue?
Ans: Your disciplined approach to investing through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) is commendable. Diversifying across various fund categories shows a thoughtful strategy. Let’s analyse your portfolio in detail.

Large Cap Funds
You have investments in two large cap funds. These funds focus on established companies, providing stability and moderate growth.

Large cap funds are generally less volatile and offer steady returns, making them suitable for long-term goals.

Mid Cap and Small Cap Funds
Your portfolio includes mid cap and small cap funds. Mid cap funds invest in medium-sized companies, which can offer higher growth potential but come with increased risk.

Small cap funds invest in smaller companies, which are riskier but have significant growth potential.

Flexicap Funds
You have SIPs in two flexicap funds. Flexicap funds provide flexibility by investing across large, mid, and small cap stocks. This diversification within a single fund can enhance returns and reduce risk.

Sector and Thematic Funds
The inclusion of a sector-specific fund, like the Nifty IT Index Fund, and a thematic fund, like the Motilal S&P 500 Fund, adds diversity. However, these funds can be volatile as they are concentrated in specific sectors or themes.

Commodity-Based Fund
Your portfolio includes the Nippon India Silver ETF Fund of Funds (FOF). Commodity-based funds can provide diversification, but they can be volatile and are influenced by market demand and global trends.

Portfolio Overlap and Concentration
While your portfolio is diversified, it is essential to assess the overlap. Multiple funds investing in similar sectors or companies can lead to redundancy.

Disadvantages of Index Funds and ETFs
Index funds and ETFs track a specific index and replicate its performance. They cannot outperform the market since they lack active management.

Actively managed funds, on the other hand, aim to beat the market through strategic decisions and dynamic adjustments.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have experienced managers who strive to outperform the market. They can adjust the portfolio based on market conditions and select high-potential stocks, offering better returns.

Assessing the Need for Rebalancing
Given your portfolio, it may be beneficial to rebalance for optimal performance. Here are some suggestions:

Reduce Overlap: Consider reducing the number of large cap funds to avoid redundancy.

Focus on Quality Funds: Ensure the funds you invest in have a consistent performance record and a good management team.

Reevaluate Sector/Thematic Funds: Assess if the sector and thematic funds align with your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Regular Monitoring and Review
Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals. Market conditions change, and periodic adjustments are necessary.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide professional advice tailored to your needs. A CFP can help you select suitable funds, monitor performance, and make necessary adjustments.

Conclusion
Your diversified SIP portfolio shows a thoughtful approach towards long-term wealth creation. With some adjustments and regular reviews, you can enhance your portfolio's performance.

Focus on reducing overlap, prioritising actively managed funds, and aligning your investments with your financial goals. Keep up the good work and continue your disciplined investing.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nitin

Nitin Narkhede  |4 Answers  |Ask -

MF, PF Guru - Answered on Sep 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 06, 2024Hindi
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I am 16 and I want to invest in mutual funds. I get pocket money of Rs 3000 per month. After cutting costs, I save about Rs 1200-1500 per month. Can I invest this in SIPs? My goal is to buy a Yamaha bike In December 2025 for my 18th birthday which costs Rs 1.5 lakh. I have already saved Rs 40,000. Where can I invest so that I can double my savings by next year? Please advice
Ans: Dear
It’s awesome that you’re thinking about investing at such a young age! Your goal of buying a Yamaha bike for your 18th birthday is achievable with the right investment strategy. Let’s break it down:
1. SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) for Your Monthly Savings you can absolutely invest your savings in SIPs. With Rs 1200-1500 available per month, SIPs are a great way to start investing in mutual funds. They allow you to invest small amounts regularly, and over time, you can benefit from compounding and rupee-cost averaging, which means your money can grow steadily. However, since your goal is just over a year away (December 2025), you’ll need to invest in something that balances growth with moderate risk, because mutual funds, especially equity ones, can be volatile in the short term.
2. How Much You Need to Save - Your target is Rs 1.5 lakh, and you’ve already saved Rs 40,000.- So, you need Rs 1.1 lakh more by December 2025. - You have roughly 15 months left, meaning you need to save or grow your savings by about Rs 7333 per month to meet your goal.
3. Investment Options - Given your short time frame, here are a few options to consider: - Hybrid or Balanced Mutual Funds: These funds invest in both stocks (equity) and bonds (debt), providing moderate growth with relatively lower risk than pure equity funds. While they might not double your savings in a year, they can give you better returns than a bank savings account. On average, you could expect returns of 8-10% per year. - Debt Mutual Funds: These are safer compared to equity mutual funds but offer lower returns, typically 6-8% per year. Debt funds might be a good option if you want to minimize risk, though they won't give huge returns in a short time. - Recurring Deposits (RDs): If you’re looking for safety and guaranteed returns, an RD in a bank might be a safer option, though the returns will be around 5-6%. This won’t help double your money, but it’s secure.
4. Doubling Your Money in a Year- While it’s tempting to look for ways to double your money quickly, it’s important to understand that high returns usually come with high risk. Investing in high-risk options like **stock trading** or **cryptocurrencies** could lead to losses, especially over such a short period.
Unfortunately, doubling your money in just over a year is not realistic without taking on significant risk. A better approach is to aim for stable growth and possibly adjust your bike budget or timeframe if necessary.
5. Action Plan - Start a SIP in a **balanced or hybrid mutual fund** with your monthly savings of Rs 1200-1500.
- Continue saving as much as possible to reach your target.
- Be cautious of high-risk investments, as they could hurt your savings in the short term.
So the Conclusion that by investing in SIPs and sticking to a disciplined savings plan, you should be able to get close to your goal. While doubling your money may not happen within a year, steady growth will help you build towards your dream bike.
If you need more personalized advice, consider speaking to a financial advisor to find the best funds for your situation.

Best regards,
Nitin Narkhede
Founder & MD, Prosperity Lifestyle Hub https://Nitinnarkhede.com
Free Webinar https://bit.ly/PLH-Webinar

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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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