Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 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
raghuram Question by raghuram on Apr 30, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Suggest any SBI funds in SIP for 10k

Ans: Selecting SBI Funds for Your SIP Investment

Congratulations on your decision to invest ?10,000 per month through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). Investing in mutual funds via SIP is a smart way to build wealth over time. Let’s explore some suitable SBI mutual funds to help you achieve your financial goals.

Understanding Your Investment Needs
It’s great to see your commitment to financial planning. Choosing the right funds is essential for maximizing returns while managing risk. Here’s a detailed breakdown of suitable SBI funds across different categories.

Diversified Equity Funds
Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds invest in well-established companies with a stable performance history. These funds are ideal for investors seeking steady growth with moderate risk. Large-cap funds provide consistency and lower volatility.

Multi-Cap Funds
Multi-cap funds invest across companies of different market capitalizations. This category offers a balanced approach, providing growth potential and diversification. Multi-cap funds can adjust their portfolio based on market conditions.

Balanced Advantage Funds
Balanced advantage funds dynamically adjust their allocation between equity and debt. These funds aim to provide growth while managing risk effectively. They are suitable for investors looking for a balanced risk-return profile.

Suggested Allocation for ?10,000 SIP
To create a well-rounded portfolio, consider the following allocation across different fund categories.

Large-Cap Fund
Allocate ?4,000 to a large-cap fund. This ensures stability and consistent growth, making it a cornerstone of your portfolio.

Multi-Cap Fund
Allocate ?3,000 to a multi-cap fund. This provides diversification across different market capitalizations and enhances growth potential.

Balanced Advantage Fund
Allocate ?3,000 to a balanced advantage fund. This adds stability through a mix of equity and debt, offering a balanced risk-return profile.

Benefits of Professional Management
Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds are overseen by professional fund managers. They actively select stocks to outperform the market. This professional expertise can lead to higher returns compared to index funds.

Regular Monitoring
A certified financial planner (CFP) can help you monitor and adjust your portfolio. They ensure that your investments align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

The Role of a Certified Financial Planner
Personalized Guidance
A CFP provides personalized advice based on your financial situation and goals. This tailored guidance ensures your investment strategy is optimized for success.

Periodic Review and Rebalancing
Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio is crucial. A CFP can help maintain the desired asset allocation and adjust investments based on market conditions.

Your dedication to securing your financial future is commendable. It’s not always easy to make disciplined financial decisions, but you are on the right path. Investing consistently and wisely will help you achieve your long-term goals.

The Importance of Patience and Consistency
Long-Term Focus
Investing is a long-term journey. Market fluctuations are normal, but staying invested through ups and downs typically yields positive results.

Avoid Emotional Decisions
Avoid making investment decisions based on short-term market movements. Stick to your plan, and let your investments grow over time.

Conclusion
Investing ?10,000 per month in SBI mutual funds through SIP is a solid strategy. A diversified approach, including large-cap, multi-cap, and balanced advantage funds, will provide stability, growth, and balanced risk. Regularly consult a certified financial planner to ensure your investments stay aligned with your goals.

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 22, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 22, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi Please suggest good SBI funds for long term onetime investment and to start SIP
Ans: SBI Mutual Funds offer a variety of schemes.

It's tempting to invest in top-performing funds.

However, chasing returns may not be the best strategy.

Consistency Over Performance
Consistent Performance: Look for funds with consistent performance over the long term.

Quality of Fund Management: Choose funds managed by experienced and reputed fund managers.

Diversification: Ensure the fund aligns with your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Avoiding Costly Investment Mistakes
Consult a Professional: Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD).

Tailored Advice: Professionals can provide tailored advice based on your financial situation.

Long-Term Perspective: Focus on long-term growth rather than short-term gains.

Evaluating Funds
Historical Performance: Review the fund's performance over at least 5-10 years.

Expense Ratio: Check the expense ratio, as higher costs can impact your returns.

Risk Assessment: Evaluate the risk associated with the fund and ensure it aligns with your risk profile.

Final Insights
Investing in mutual funds requires careful evaluation and planning. While top-performing funds may seem attractive, focusing on consistency and quality is more important. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner or Mutual Fund Distributor can help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed investment decisions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 16, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 13, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Sir want 30000 invest in SIP for my early retirement. Please provide me SIP fund. I want invest for 10 to 15 years. I have close my rs30000 RD Monthly for this sip and 30000 RD is continue
Ans: For your goal of early retirement through a SIP of Rs. 30,000 monthly, it's important to build a diversified portfolio for stable returns. Here’s an investment strategy to consider:

60% in Large Cap Equity Funds
These funds provide stability and growth potential over the long term. They focus on large, established companies with good track records.

20% in Mid Cap Funds
Mid-cap funds offer higher growth potential, but they come with a bit more risk. Over 10-15 years, they can outperform large-cap funds.

20% in Hybrid Funds or Balanced Advantage Funds
These funds strike a balance between equity and debt. They provide a mix of growth and stability, especially in volatile markets.

Avoid investing in direct plans as it may limit professional advice and regular monitoring. Choosing funds via MFD (Mutual Fund Distributor) with a CFP credential ensures better guidance.

Time Frame for Investment
Since your investment horizon is 10-15 years, you’re in a good position to take advantage of market cycles. This time frame allows your investment to grow significantly through compounding and market upswings.

Regular Monitoring
Review your investments periodically, preferably every 6 months. Adjust your allocation if necessary to stay aligned with your goals.

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Money
Which is the best sip to invest in SBI bank.i can invest 10000 monthly.please advice
Ans: You are already doing a great job by committing Rs 10,000 every month towards SIP. Starting a SIP is one of the most disciplined and effective ways to build wealth over time. You are on the right path.

? Don’t invest SIP through banks

– Banks are not experts in mutual fund investments.
– Their main business is lending and deposit-taking.
– SIP through banks may limit your choices.
– SBI bank will promote only their own AMC or selected partners.
– You may miss better-performing funds from other fund houses.
– Banks also lack proper personalised advice.
– Bank staff are not SEBI-registered mutual fund distributors.
– Their focus is mostly on targets, not on your goals.

? Why you should invest SIP through a CFP-MFD

– Certified Financial Planners understand your complete financial life.
– They help align SIPs with your long-term goals.
– A CFP-MFD can access schemes across 40+ AMCs.
– You get customised advice, not just product-selling.
– They do regular reviews and portfolio rebalancing.
– You stay on track for your retirement or child education.
– They help in tax planning using ELSS and capital gains strategies.
– You get better long-term support and handholding.

? Problems with Direct Plans if investing yourself

– Direct plans seem cheaper but have hidden costs.
– Without guidance, wrong scheme selection is common.
– You may get swayed by past returns and media noise.
– No regular review or rebalancing leads to portfolio drift.
– Risk of overlapping schemes with similar holdings.
– Tax planning and withdrawal strategy often ignored.
– During market falls, no guidance leads to panic exits.

A CFP-MFD offers Regular Plans.

They charge a small trail commission.

But the value of advice is far greater.

You save more by avoiding mistakes.

You reach your goals sooner and safer.

? Disadvantages of Index Funds (if you were thinking of them)

– Index funds simply follow the market, blindly.
– They can’t protect you during market downturns.
– No flexibility to exit poor-performing sectors.
– No human expertise to capture new trends early.
– Poor downside protection when compared to active funds.
– You may lose opportunities in mid or small caps.
– Some index funds may lag due to tracking error.

In contrast, actively managed funds have expert fund managers.

They shift assets smartly based on changing conditions.

They manage risks better, especially during volatile periods.

? How to select the right SIP funds for your Rs 10,000/month

– Divide your SIP into 3 to 4 schemes.
– Choose a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap funds.
– If long-term goal (above 7 years), include small-cap also.
– Include one hybrid or multi-asset fund for balance.
– Avoid thematic or sectoral funds unless you understand them.
– Reinvest any existing ULIPs or LIC savings plans into mutual funds.
– Ensure each fund complements the others.

SIP selection must match your goals, risk tolerance, and time frame.

Don’t go by star ratings or recent performance only.

Check fund consistency, expense ratio, asset quality, and style.

? Consider your goal timelines and SIP split like this

– Rs 3,000 in a large-cap or flexi-cap fund.
– Rs 3,000 in a mid-cap or small-cap fund.
– Rs 2,000 in a hybrid or aggressive hybrid fund.
– Rs 2,000 in an ELSS if you want tax saving.

Avoid putting all Rs 10,000 in one fund.

Diversifying ensures better risk-adjusted returns.

Keep each SIP running for at least 5 years.

Don’t stop SIPs during market crashes.

? Key checkpoints for a well-structured SIP portfolio

– Clearly defined goals (retirement, child education, etc.).
– Written SIP plan aligned with each goal.
– Balanced allocation across fund types.
– Reviewed every 6 to 12 months with your CFP.
– Changes done only when goals or life situation changes.

SIP is a journey. Stick to the road even if bumps come.

Avoid changing schemes frequently unless performance dips severely.

Take help from a qualified CFP-MFD for peace of mind.

? SIP is not enough. Build a full plan with your CFP

– SIPs must support larger life goals.
– Combine SIPs with emergency fund planning.
– Ensure proper term insurance and health cover.
– Keep liquid funds for short-term needs.
– Use PPF or debt funds for stability.
– Plan asset allocation based on age and risk.
– Track goal progress every year.
– Use SIP step-up to increase investment as salary grows.

Rs 10,000 today can grow to over Rs 1 crore in 20 years.

But only with patience and disciplined planning.

A Certified Financial Planner can help make that possible.

? MF capital gains tax rules you should know

– Equity MF LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG from equity MFs is taxed at 20%.
– For debt MFs, both STCG and LTCG are taxed as per income slab.

So exit funds only when needed.

Time your withdrawals smartly with help from your CFP.

? Finally

SIP through SBI bank is not a wise choice.

You deserve better options and deeper advice.

Choose a Certified Financial Planner and invest through Regular Plans.

Avoid Direct Plans unless you are highly knowledgeable.

Don’t fall for index funds. Choose active funds with smart management.

Split your Rs 10,000 into goal-aligned, diversified SIPs.

Keep SIPs for long term. Review regularly with your CFP.

Add protection with insurance and liquidity with debt.

Stay focused, stay patient. Wealth will follow.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1840 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x