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Investing Advice: How can I improve my investment portfolio?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 04, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Feb 01, 2025Hindi
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hi team, thank you for guiding on verious queries my current portfolio is distributed as below, can you please suggest for better improvement. Index funds 43.93% mid-cap 21.9% large & mid-cap 11.78% flexi cap 9.08% large-cap 7.07% sector technology 5.61% elss (tax savings) 0.3% global other 0%

Ans: Your portfolio has a good mix of equity funds. You have diversified across market caps. However, there is room for improvement. A structured approach can enhance returns and reduce risks.

Strengths of Your Portfolio
You have a strong allocation to mid-cap and flexi-cap funds. These have high growth potential.

Large-cap funds provide stability in your portfolio.

A sectoral fund can give additional growth in specific market cycles.

ELSS investment provides tax benefits. Even though allocation is low, it helps in tax savings.

Areas for Improvement
High Exposure to Index Funds
Index funds make up 43.93% of your portfolio. This is too high.

Index funds do not outperform the market. They only match it.

Actively managed funds give better returns over time.

Fund managers adjust holdings based on market trends. Index funds lack this flexibility.

Reducing index fund allocation can help improve returns.

Mid-Cap and Large & Mid-Cap Allocation
Mid-cap funds are 21.9% of your portfolio.

Large & mid-cap funds are 11.78%. This combination gives good growth.

These funds need long-term holding for better returns.

You can continue holding them, but periodic review is necessary.

Low Allocation to Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds are only 7.07%.

Large-cap stocks provide stability in downturns.

You may increase allocation to maintain a balanced portfolio.

Sectoral Fund Allocation
Technology sector fund is 5.61%.

Sectoral funds are high-risk. They perform well only in certain cycles.

If technology sector underperforms, it can drag your returns down.

Reducing exposure may help in risk management.

No Allocation to International Funds
Your portfolio has 0% in global funds.

International funds provide geographic diversification.

This helps in reducing risk from local market downturns.

A small allocation to international funds is recommended.

Suggested Portfolio Rebalancing
Reduce index fund exposure. Shift to actively managed funds.

Maintain mid-cap and flexi-cap allocations for long-term growth.

Increase large-cap allocation for better stability.

Reduce sectoral exposure to manage risk.

Add a small portion to international funds for diversification.

Risk Management and Portfolio Review
Equity investments need long-term commitment.

Review your portfolio every six months.

Rebalance if any fund underperforms consistently.

Ensure you have adequate health insurance for financial security.

Finally
Your portfolio is structured well, but small changes can improve returns.

Reducing index funds will enhance growth potential.

A better mix of large-cap and global funds can reduce risks.

Keep reviewing your investments and adjusting as needed.

A disciplined approach will help you achieve long-term financial goals.

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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I have been investing in mutual funds like Nippon large cap 8k , HDFC Mid cap opportunities 3k, Quant small cap 3k , Nippon India small cap 2k, Parag Parikh flexi cap 4k, Aditya Birla sun life PSU 2k, HDFC Balanced Advantage fund 2k , Nippon India credit risk (Debt Fund) 2k . Need some suggestions on the overall portfolio and if any further improvements can be done on debt Fund .
Ans: Your investment portfolio reflects a well-diversified approach across various segments of the market, which is commendable. Let's delve into some suggestions for optimizing your portfolio and enhancing the debt component.

Your allocation across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, flexi-cap, and sector-specific funds provides a good balance of growth potential and stability.

Consider evaluating the performance and consistency of each fund to ensure they align with your investment objectives and risk tolerance.

As for your debt fund, given the current economic environment, it's prudent to review your exposure to credit risk.

Consider diversifying your debt allocation by exploring options such as liquid funds or short-term debt funds, which offer lower credit risk and higher liquidity.

Additionally, assessing the expense ratio and credit quality of your current debt fund can help determine its suitability for your portfolio.

Pls consult a Certified Financial Planner to assist you in fine-tuning your portfolio to better align with your goals.

Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio ensures it remains optimized to weather market fluctuations and achieve long-term growth.

Remember, investing is a dynamic process, and adjustments may be necessary to adapt to changing market conditions and personal circumstances.

Keep up the good work with your investment journey, and feel free to reach out if you need further assistance or guidance. Your dedication to financial planning is truly commendable!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 18, 2024Hindi
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I have the following portfolio: 1. UTI nifty 50 index fund 2. Parag Parikh flexi cap 3. Nippon India Small cap please suggest if any changes are needed. Do I need to add a midcap fund? and which midcap fund would be best if i have a risk appetite?
Ans: Portfolio Review
You have a well-diversified portfolio, but let's evaluate each fund:

UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund: This fund tracks the Nifty 50 index. While index funds have low management fees, they do not provide active management. They lack the potential for outperformance in varying market conditions. Consider replacing this with an actively managed large-cap fund to potentially enhance returns.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: This is a strong flexi cap fund. It provides diversification across large, mid, and small-cap stocks. It's a good choice for long-term growth and has a strong track record.

Nippon India Small Cap Fund: This fund invests in small-cap stocks. Small-cap funds can offer high growth but come with higher risk and volatility.

Adding a Midcap Fund
Given your risk appetite, adding a midcap fund can provide a balanced exposure to your portfolio. Midcap funds offer higher growth potential than large-cap funds but are less volatile than small-cap funds.

Recommended Midcap Fund
When choosing a midcap fund, consider these factors:

Fund Performance: Look for consistent performance over various periods (1 year, 3 years, 5 years).

Fund Management: Experienced fund managers with a good track record.

Expense Ratio: Lower expense ratios can help enhance net returns.

Portfolio Composition: A diversified portfolio within the midcap segment.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Active Management: Actively managed funds can potentially outperform the market through stock selection and timing.

Risk Management: Fund managers actively manage risk through diversification and strategic asset allocation.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Lack of Flexibility: Index funds strictly follow the index composition, missing opportunities for better performance.

No Downside Protection: Index funds fall as much as the market during downturns, offering no protection against losses.

Suggested Investment Plan
Equity Allocation: Continue with Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund and Nippon India Small Cap Fund.

Replace Index Fund: Consider replacing UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund with an actively managed large-cap fund.

Suggested Midcap Fund Criteria
Strong Track Record: Choose a midcap fund with consistent past performance.

Experienced Fund Manager: Ensure the fund is managed by an experienced team.

Diversified Portfolio: Look for a fund with a diversified midcap portfolio.

Final Insights
Regular Review: Periodically review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Diversification: Maintain a diversified portfolio to manage risk effectively.

Stay Informed: Keep updated on market trends and fund performance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Feb 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 18, 2025
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Hi i am a married woman aged 45 years, i am happily married and have a loving husband. My husband travels a lot due to work and my son is studying in college in Pune. Everything was going fine in my life, but few months back a MBA graduate boy 23 years joined our office in my team. He had to report to me, and our company send us for sales corporatemeetings to Mumbai and other cities often. Gradually we became close and he confessed he had a crush on me. I was falttered but told him i am much older and married. Although i was very flattered that he found me attractive. I am tall 5ft 7 inches and kept myself very fit and always men keep hitting on me but i always ignore them. On our last trip together we went for a meal and had a few drinks together. Then i told him i was sleepy and needed to go to my room. He accompanied to my room and had a coffee. I had a bavk ache and he said he can massage me for 5 mins. I hesitantly agreed during the massage one thing led to another and we had sex and since then we have started having sex whenever we travel togther often. He says he truly loves me but for next 5 years he cannot marry anyone. I have now started loving him a lot i often fight with my husband. I want to continue this affair but am afraid if my husband finds out or if people in office come to know. Strangely another young man in office has starterd showing interest in me and asked me out for a coffee. He also says he likes me a lot anf is caring, I am confused shall i also go for a simple coffee. what if my husband or younger boyfriend find out. Is what i am doing wrong, i just want to live my life fully am i wrong ???
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
If you do not have an open marriage, then what you are doing is certainly wrong. When has cheating ever been right? Especially when you did not mention anything wrong with your husband. I am not judging you; but I would suggest that if you want to keep this up, you either come clean to your husband or let him go. This isn't fair. You living your life to the fullest should not harm or hurt others.
Hope this helps.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 18, 2025

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I am selling my 3bhk flat around 6000000 is it compulsory to invest that money in other property? if i want to invest it what is the best options available to avoid tax?
Ans: Selling a property attracts capital gains tax. Since your flat is a long-term capital asset (held for more than 2 years), the Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) tax rate is 20% with indexation.

LTCG Calculation = Sale Price - Indexed Cost of Acquisition
Tax Payable = 20% on the LTCG amount
However, you can avoid paying tax by reinvesting the capital gains under certain sections of the Income Tax Act.

Ways to Save Capital Gains Tax
1. Reinvest in Another Residential Property (Section 54)
If you buy another residential property within 2 years or construct within 3 years, you get an exemption on the LTCG amount.
The new property must be in India and should be held for at least 3 years.
If you sell it before 3 years, the exemption is reversed.
? Best for: Those who want to own another property.

2. Invest in Capital Gains Bonds (Section 54EC)
You can invest up to Rs 50 lakhs in NHAI or REC capital gains bonds within 6 months of sale.
The lock-in period is 5 years.
Interest is taxable but the capital gains are exempt.
? Best for: Those who want a risk-free investment with tax savings.

3. Deposit in Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS)
If you haven’t decided where to invest, deposit the LTCG in a Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS) before the IT return filing deadline.
This gives you time to buy property or construct a house.
The funds must be used within 3 years, or they become taxable.
? Best for: Those who need time before investing in real estate.

Other Investment Options (But No Tax Exemption)
If you don’t reinvest in property or bonds, the LTCG amount will be taxed at 20%. You can still invest the remaining amount in:

Mutual Funds – Equity funds for long-term growth
Fixed Deposits – Safe returns but fully taxable
Stock Market – High risk, high return potential
These options do not offer tax exemption but help grow wealth.

Final Insights
If you want tax-free gains, reinvest in property or capital gains bonds.
If you don’t want to lock funds, pay LTCG tax and invest in other assets.
Use the Capital Gains Account Scheme if you need time to decide.
Plan based on your financial goals and liquidity needs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 18, 2025

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Dear Sir, i'm 27 years old and wish to retire by 50. I live in my own home and investing 50k monthly sip to below funds from past 1 year. 20k tata small cap/ 10k parag parekh flexi cap/ 20k motilal oswal mid cap. Could you please guide me in long term if this would be sustainable or require some adjustments in funds or distribution? I'm hoping for higher returns to have enough big corpse at the time of retirement so not included large cap funds.
Ans: You are investing early, which is a great decision. Your goal of retiring at 50 is ambitious. A strong investment strategy will help achieve it.

Current Investment Overview
SIP Contribution – Rs 50,000 per month
Fund Allocation
Small Cap – Rs 20,000
Mid Cap – Rs 20,000
Flexi Cap – Rs 10,000
Investment Duration – 1 year completed
Key Observations
1. High Risk Allocation – Need for Balance
Your portfolio is heavily tilted toward small and mid caps.
These funds offer high returns but come with volatility.
A more balanced allocation will reduce risk.
2. Absence of Large Cap Exposure
Large caps provide stability in market downturns.
A portion of the portfolio should be in large-cap funds.
This will reduce portfolio fluctuations over time.
3. Flexi Cap Fund – Good Choice for Diversification
This fund type adjusts between market caps.
It provides flexibility based on market conditions.
Retain this fund for better risk management.
Recommended Adjustments
1. Optimizing Fund Distribution
Reduce small-cap allocation from Rs 20,000 to Rs 15,000.
Reduce mid-cap allocation from Rs 20,000 to Rs 15,000.
Add a large-cap fund with Rs 10,000 allocation.
Increase flexi-cap allocation from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000.
2. Adding Debt for Stability
As you get closer to retirement, reduce equity exposure.
Start a small allocation in debt funds after 40.
This will ensure capital protection.
3. Tax Planning Considerations
Capital gains tax will apply when you redeem funds.
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
STCG is taxed at 20%.
Plan withdrawals in a tax-efficient manner.
Final Insights
Continue SIPs with a more balanced allocation.
Add large-cap funds for stability.
Include debt funds closer to retirement.
Plan tax-efficient withdrawals in the future.
This strategy will ensure a strong retirement corpus.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 18, 2025

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Hi ... I have been very bad a financial planning and have been living the good life without really bothering about the future. I am 48 and work with a MNC and make around 4.5L per month after taxes. I am married with a 17 yr old son who's in 11th. I currently have savings in my bank and equity to the tune of 35L. I have been investing around 80K per month in SIP's for the last 3 years. I have an apartment which is worth around 4cr now and I have a home loan of around 1cr remaining on it. In addition, I have a personal loan of around 40L taken for home interiors (4 more years pending on it). I feel I am not really set up well for my retirement. What would you suggest? My monthly expenses after all this do not have any room for savings.
Ans: You have a strong income and investments. But high loans are affecting savings. You need a structured plan to reduce debt and secure retirement.

Current Financial Overview
Income

Rs 4.5 lakh per month after taxes
Investments & Savings

Rs 35 lakh in bank and equity
Rs 80,000 SIP per month (3 years)
Assets

Apartment worth Rs 4 crore
Loans

Home loan: Rs 1 crore remaining
Personal loan: Rs 40 lakh (4 years left)
Expenses

No room for additional savings after all expenses
Key Financial Concerns
1. Home Loan & Personal Loan – Priority on Repayment
Loan EMIs are affecting savings.
Reduce home loan tenure by increasing EMI, if possible.
Try to prepay the personal loan first. It has a higher interest rate.
Avoid taking more loans until these are cleared.
2. Retirement Planning – Building a Strong Corpus
Your current savings are low for retirement. You need a better plan.

Increase SIPs when personal loan is cleared.
Allocate funds across equity and debt for long-term growth.
Consider PPF, EPF, and debt funds for stability.
Gradually move funds to safer investments as retirement nears.
3. Son’s Higher Education – Plan Early
Your son will enter college in two years. You need a dedicated fund.

Start a separate SIP to cover education costs.
Use debt funds for short-term needs.
Avoid withdrawing from retirement savings for education.
4. Insurance – Protect Your Finances
Ensure you have term insurance of at least Rs 1.5 crore.
Maintain health insurance for family with a high cover.
Avoid traditional insurance plans with low returns.
Final Insights
Focus on repaying personal loan first.
Prepay the home loan gradually for financial freedom.
Increase SIPs once debt reduces.
Start a dedicated education fund for your son.
Build a diversified retirement corpus with equity and debt.
A disciplined approach will secure your future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8001 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 18, 2025

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Hello Sir, I am 49 Yrs of Age and working in Private Firm in Mid Management. Today my monthly expenditure is around 40000 and wants to retire at the age of 59-60. But my daughter is of 4 yrs only . As on date I invest on SIP - Monthly 40K and Equity - 1.5 Lks.. Portfolio of around 19 Lks. I have purchased two Flats -01 is free debt and on another Housing Loan of 21lks is upto 2032. FD is of around 35Lkhs. PF balance is of now- 22lkhs and PPF of Rs 6 lkh . Mediclaim for family of 50lkhs per year. Under 80 C - monthly premium of around 25 K along with terms plan of 50Lkhs. I want to purchase open plot in Nagpur for investment and future planning, Funds i will use from FD of around 25 Lks..is this wise decision? Also I have 35 lks parental Property but it will transfer to me after 10 Yrs .....Pls advise how to secure my daughter future and his education and also post retirement my expenditure.
Ans: You have a well-structured portfolio with SIPs, equity investments, FDs, and real estate. Your focus on retirement at 59-60 and securing your daughter’s future is crucial. Let’s assess your financial standing and guide you towards a more structured approach.

Current Financial Overview
Investments

SIP: Rs 40,000 per month
Equity: Rs 1.5 lakh lump sum investment
Total Portfolio: Rs 19 lakh
Real Estate

One flat is debt-free
Second flat has a Rs 21 lakh home loan till 2032
Fixed Deposits

Rs 35 lakh in FD
Provident Fund & PPF

PF Balance: Rs 22 lakh
PPF: Rs 6 lakh
Insurance & Tax Savings

Mediclaim: Rs 50 lakh per year
Life Insurance: Rs 50 lakh term plan
Monthly insurance premium under 80C: Rs 25,000
Future Real Estate Plan

Planning to invest Rs 25 lakh in an open plot in Nagpur
Parental Property

Rs 35 lakh property expected to be transferred in 10 years
Key Financial Considerations
1. Should You Invest Rs 25 Lakh in an Open Plot?
Real estate is not liquid, making it difficult to use in emergencies.
Selling at the right price may take years.
Property maintenance and legal issues can add costs.
Instead, consider investing in equity or mutual funds for higher flexibility.
It’s better to keep Rs 25 lakh diversified in liquid investments rather than real estate.

2. Retirement Planning – Securing Post-Retirement Expenses
Your current monthly expense is Rs 40,000. This will rise due to inflation. You need a solid retirement corpus.

Continue SIPs and Increase Contribution Yearly

Rs 40,000 SIPs are good, but increase them by 10% yearly.
This ensures long-term wealth creation.
Allocate FD Funds Wisely

FD returns are low and taxable.
Shift a portion to equity and hybrid funds for better growth.
Utilise PF and PPF Efficiently

PF will grow by retirement but won’t be enough alone.
Continue PPF for stable, tax-free returns.
Debt Fund Investments for Stability

Gradually move funds to debt funds five years before retirement.
This protects against market volatility.
Health Insurance is Well-Planned

Rs 50 lakh mediclaim is a strong financial shield.
Ensure coverage continues post-retirement.
3. Planning for Your Daughter’s Future
Your daughter is just four years old. You need a structured education and marriage fund.

Start a Separate SIP for Her Education

Allocate at least Rs 15,000 per month in equity funds.
Increase by 10% annually to cover rising education costs.
Use Debt Funds for Short-Term Needs

For school fees or immediate expenses, use debt funds.
These are safer than FDs and provide better returns.
Avoid Child ULIPs or Traditional Insurance Plans

These give low returns with high charges.
Instead, use mutual funds for higher growth.
Consider a Sukanya Samriddhi Account

This provides tax-free returns and stability for long-term goals.
Invest a small portion to diversify savings.
Final Insights
Avoid investing Rs 25 lakh in an open plot.
Increase SIPs yearly and allocate part of FD funds to mutual funds.
Start a dedicated education fund for your daughter.
Focus on equity growth while gradually securing assets in debt before retirement.
With structured planning, you can achieve financial security for yourself and your daughter.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...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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