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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8869 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 18, 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
rudolf Question by rudolf on Jun 18, 2024Hindi
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Sir thank you again, A small correction: it's not 'Motiwal Oswal Microsoft Nifty 250'; rather, it's Motiwal Oswal Nifty Microcap 250 Index Fund.Regarding the Nifty50 Index, I was investing Rs. 10,000 in the Navi Nasdaq 100 FOF. However, since it stopped accepting new funds, I have reallocated the amount as follows: an additional Rs. 5,000 in the Nifty Index (original investment in the Nifty Index Fund was Rs. 10,000), addition of Rs. 2,000 in the Quant Active Index Fund, and Rs. 3,000 in the Microcap Index Fund, as stated above. I am thinking to restart SIP again as soon as Navi Nasdaq start accepting SIP and this adjustment will be paused except microcap which I am thinking of keeping it for long time Thank you again

Ans: You're welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance regarding your financial planning or any other related matter, please feel free to ask. I'm here to help you navigate through your financial journey and achieve your goals.

Best wishes,

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  |8869 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 17, 2024Hindi
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I am 30 years old and I am investing following SIP 1) Parag Parikh Flexi cap Fund - 3K 2) Mirae large and mid cap Fund - 3k 3) Nifty 50 index fund - 3K 4) Nifty mid cap 250 index fund - 2K 5) Nippon small cap Fund - 1K 6) Goldbees - 1K Also I am planning to opt for Nifty 200 monumentum low volatility 30 fund for 2K. Along with that I am investing on direct stocks ITC,Mannapuram,JSW infra , TATADVR, NAPCO Pharma. Please review my portfolio and let me know to restructure
Ans: Your investment portfolio reflects a diversified approach across various asset classes, including mutual funds and direct stocks. While your strategy appears well-rounded, here are some suggestions to consider for potential restructuring:

Active Mutual Funds Over Index Funds: Instead of Nifty 50 index fund and Nifty mid cap 250 index fund, consider allocating more towards actively managed mutual funds. Active funds have the potential to outperform the market indices by leveraging the expertise of fund managers to select high-quality stocks and navigate market fluctuations effectively.
Focus on Quality Active Funds: Look for actively managed funds with a track record of consistent performance and robust investment strategies. Funds like diversified equity funds, large-cap funds, and mid-cap funds with proven track records can offer growth potential while managing risk effectively.
Review Direct Stock Holdings: Evaluate your direct stock holdings and consider consolidating them into a more concentrated portfolio of high-quality companies with strong growth prospects and solid fundamentals. Diversification is essential, but too many stocks can dilute the impact of your best-performing investments.
Regular Portfolio Review: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed based on changing market conditions and your investment goals. Rebalancing your portfolio and reallocating investments to areas with better growth potential can help optimize returns over the long term.
Remember, while mutual funds offer diversification and professional management, direct stock investments can provide opportunities for higher returns but also come with higher risks. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor your investment strategy to your specific financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8869 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 08, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Gurus, I'm investing 29k Sip in below funds. Can you pls look into these and suggest if any changes needed for better. 1. Uti nifty 50 index - 4k 2. Parag parikh flexicap - 6k 3. Jm flexi cap - 6k 4. Quant midcap - 6k 5. Quant smallcap - 3k 6. Nippon india small cap - 4k
Ans: You have a well-diversified SIP portfolio with an investment of Rs 29,000 per month. This includes exposure to large-cap, flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. The diversity in your portfolio is commendable. It reflects a balanced approach, combining growth and stability. However, there is always room for optimization.

Re-evaluating the Index Fund Allocation
Your current allocation includes an index fund. Index funds track the market and are passively managed. While they are low-cost, they may not outperform actively managed funds over the long term.

Actively managed funds provide the advantage of expert fund management. This can lead to better returns, especially in a dynamic market like India. It might be beneficial to shift this allocation to a well-managed large-cap or multi-cap fund. This could enhance the growth potential of your portfolio.

Flexi-Cap Funds: A Balanced Approach
You have allocated Rs 12,000 in flexi-cap funds. Flexi-cap funds are versatile as they invest across market capitalizations. This flexibility allows fund managers to capitalize on market opportunities.

However, ensure that both flexi-cap funds are distinct in their investment strategy. Overlapping strategies may reduce diversification benefits. Consider reviewing the performance and investment style of these funds. This will help you avoid redundancy and maximize your portfolio's growth.

Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Funds: Growth Potential with Risk
Your portfolio has a significant allocation to mid-cap and small-cap funds. Mid-cap and small-cap funds are known for their high growth potential. However, they also come with increased volatility.

It is important to ensure that your risk appetite aligns with this allocation. Mid-cap and small-cap funds should ideally form a smaller portion of your portfolio if you are risk-averse. On the other hand, if you are comfortable with market fluctuations, these funds can contribute to long-term wealth creation.

Considering the Overlap in Small-Cap Funds
You have two small-cap funds in your portfolio. While small-cap funds offer high growth, having multiple funds in the same category might lead to overlap. This could reduce the effectiveness of diversification.

You may want to consolidate your investment into one well-performing small-cap fund. This will simplify your portfolio and potentially enhance returns. Focus on a fund with a strong track record and consistent performance.

The Importance of Regular Portfolio Review
Your SIP portfolio should be regularly reviewed to align with your financial goals. Markets and fund performances change over time. A Certified Financial Planner can help you make necessary adjustments.

Regular reviews will help in identifying underperforming funds. They will also help in capitalizing on new opportunities. This proactive approach ensures that your portfolio remains on track to achieve your financial objectives.

Benefits of Professional Guidance
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner provides several advantages. These professionals offer personalized advice tailored to your financial situation. They also have the expertise to navigate market complexities and optimize your portfolio.

Direct funds, while low-cost, may not offer the same level of guidance. Investing through regular funds with a CFP’s advice can lead to better financial outcomes. The value of professional expertise often outweighs the cost.

Tax Efficiency and Investment Planning
Your investment strategy should also consider tax efficiency. Equity mutual funds offer tax benefits, especially for long-term investors. However, tax laws can change, and it’s important to stay updated.

A Certified Financial Planner can help you optimize your tax liabilities. They can guide you on how to structure your investments to maximize post-tax returns. This is a crucial aspect of building and preserving wealth.

Aligning Investments with Financial Goals
Every investment should be aligned with your financial goals. Whether you are saving for retirement, buying a house, or funding your children's education, each goal requires a different strategy.

It’s important to map your SIPs to specific goals. This will help you track progress and make adjustments as needed. A goal-based approach ensures that your investments are purposeful and effective.

Balancing Growth and Stability
While your portfolio is growth-oriented, it’s essential to maintain a balance with stability. Growth funds can provide high returns, but they also carry higher risk.

Consider allocating a portion of your portfolio to debt funds or balanced funds. These funds offer stability and protect against market downturns. This balanced approach can safeguard your portfolio during volatile times.

Final Insights
Your current SIP portfolio is well-structured with a strong focus on growth through equity funds. You’ve done a commendable job in diversifying across different market capitalizations. However, to further optimize your portfolio, a few adjustments and considerations can enhance your investment strategy.

Here’s a recap of the key recommendations:

Reevaluate the Index Fund Allocation: Consider shifting your investment from the index fund to an actively managed large-cap or multi-cap fund. Actively managed funds offer the potential for higher returns due to expert management.

Review Flexi-Cap Funds: Ensure there’s no overlap between the two flexi-cap funds. They should have distinct investment strategies to maximize diversification benefits.

Manage Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Exposure: Given the inherent volatility of mid-cap and small-cap funds, assess your risk tolerance. If necessary, consolidate your small-cap funds to avoid redundancy and simplify your portfolio.

Regular Portfolio Review: Regularly reviewing your portfolio is crucial. It helps in making timely adjustments and ensuring your investments align with your financial goals. A Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Tax Efficiency: Optimize your portfolio for tax efficiency. A CFP can help you navigate tax laws and structure your investments to maximize post-tax returns.

Align Investments with Financial Goals: Map your SIPs to specific financial goals. This goal-based approach ensures that each investment serves a clear purpose, helping you track progress and make informed adjustments.

Balance Growth with Stability: While your portfolio is geared towards growth, consider adding some stability through debt or balanced funds. This will help protect your investments during market downturns.

By implementing these recommendations, you can enhance the effectiveness of your SIP investments. It’s important to stay proactive and adaptable as market conditions and personal circumstances evolve. Your commitment to investing is commendable, and with the right strategy, you can achieve your financial goals more effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8869 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 12, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir Kindly suggest for any modification if required as per my current investments in SIP. Currently I am investing 2.5k in each funds in below mentioned SIP. 1. Axis focused fund regular growth 2.Invesco Small cap Regular 3.Canara Robeco Small cap Regular 4.Mirae asset large cap Regular growth 5.Nippon India index fund Nifty 5. Parat parikh flexi cap fund
Ans: You're investing Rs 2.5k in six different SIPs. These funds cover a mix of large-cap, small-cap, focused, and flexi-cap categories. This diversified approach is a good starting point for balancing risk and returns. However, it's essential to assess each fund's role in your portfolio.

Fund Categorization and Allocation

Large-Cap Funds:

Large-cap funds offer stability. They focus on established companies with strong market presence.
Small-Cap Funds:

Small-cap funds provide growth potential but carry higher risk. These funds invest in emerging companies that may not be as stable.
Focused and Flexi-Cap Funds:

Focused funds invest in a limited number of stocks. This approach allows concentrated growth but with increased risk.
Flexi-cap funds provide flexibility by investing across market caps. This diversification can reduce risk.
Index Fund Consideration

You've included an index fund in your portfolio. While index funds have low management fees, they also lack the potential for outperforming the market. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can provide higher returns, especially in volatile markets. A Certified Financial Planner can help identify funds that might outperform the index, offering better growth opportunities.

Benefits of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds

Regular funds come with the advantage of professional guidance. A Certified Financial Planner can help tailor your investments to your goals. Direct funds might save on commissions, but without expert advice, the risk of underperformance increases. The expertise of a CFP ensures your portfolio is aligned with your financial objectives.

Diversification and Risk Management

Your current portfolio is diversified across various fund categories, which helps spread risk. However, too much overlap in fund types, like small-cap funds, can increase risk unnecessarily. It's crucial to maintain a balanced allocation that aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Investment Horizon and Goals

Understanding your investment horizon is key. If you're investing for long-term goals like retirement, a mix of equity-oriented funds is suitable. For medium-term goals, consider reducing exposure to high-risk funds and adding more balanced or debt funds.

Final Insights

Review Overlap: Evaluate the overlap in your small-cap funds. Diversify across other categories for better balance.

Reconsider Index Fund: Actively managed funds may provide better growth potential. A CFP can guide you in selecting suitable alternatives.

Seek Professional Guidance: The benefits of regular funds, with expert advice, outweigh the savings from direct funds. A Certified Financial Planner can help maximize returns and manage risk.

Adjust for Goals: Align your portfolio with your financial goals. Adjust your fund allocation based on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8869 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 15, 2025Hindi
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Hello sir, I am 50 age and investing in the below funds by sip mode: Nippon india large cap - 2000 pm Nippon india multi cap - 2000 pm Nippon india small cap - 2000 pm ICICI prudential flexi cap - 2000 pm MO midcap fund - 2000 pm Mahindra ML large & midcap - 2000 pm Uti nifty 50 index - 1500 pm ICICI Pru nifty next 50 index - 1500 pm Nippon IT index - 1500 pm ICICI bse sensex index - 1500 pm ICICI Pru multi asset allocation - 5000 pm DSP multi asset allocation - 1000 pm SBI retirement aggressive - 1000 pm HDFC balanced advantage - 2500 pm Can I continue the above for the next 10 years OR is there a need for any changes to be made. My current MF investment stands at 20 L Looking forward to you advise please.
Ans: You are investing in a diverse set of funds across multiple categories. It is important to check if your portfolio is well-balanced, tax-efficient, and aligned with your risk appetite.

Fund Overlap and Diversification
You have too many funds in the same category.

Multiple large-cap, multi-cap, and index funds create unnecessary duplication.

A smaller, well-chosen portfolio will improve returns and reduce complexity.

Index Funds in Your Portfolio
You are investing in four index funds.

Index funds lack downside protection in market crashes.

Actively managed funds have better potential to beat the market.

Consider reducing index fund exposure to improve returns.

Sector and Thematic Funds
You have a technology sector fund.

Sector funds can be high-risk, as they depend on one industry’s performance.

A diversified portfolio is better than relying on a single sector.

If held, sector funds should be less than 10% of the total portfolio.

Multi-Asset and Hybrid Funds
Multi-asset funds help in balancing risk with exposure to equity, debt, and gold.

You have three multi-asset funds, which may be too many.

It is better to consolidate and hold only one or two of the best-performing funds.

Retirement Fund and Balanced Advantage Fund
SBI Retirement Aggressive Fund is designed for long-term wealth creation.

HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund helps in managing market volatility.

These funds are suitable for investors above 50, as they lower risk.

Recommended Changes
Reduce fund duplication by keeping only one multi-asset fund.

Exit some index funds and switch to actively managed funds.

Limit sector funds to a small portion of your portfolio.

Continue investing in flexi-cap and balanced advantage funds for long-term stability.

Final Insights
Your portfolio has good diversification but can be simplified.

Reducing overlapping funds will improve returns and ease tracking.

Shifting from index funds to actively managed funds may provide better growth.

Holding for 10 years is a good strategy, but regular rebalancing is needed.

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  |5979 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 08, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5979 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 06, 2025
Career
I cleared jee adv and am confused about taking ECM IIT Delhi or ECE IIT Roorkee/Guwahati/Kharagpur
Ans: Choosing between ECM (Electrical Engineering) at IIT Delhi and ECE at IIT Roorkee/Guwahati/Kharagpur hinges on priorities:

Placement Consistency: IIT Roorkee ECE leads with 85% placements (2024) and robust roles in embedded systems/AI, followed by IIT Guwahati (85% placements, Intel/Qualcomm roles) and IIT Kharagpur (87.05% placements, semiconductor focus). IIT Delhi’s ECM lags at 55% placements (2024), though its alumni network and Delhi’s tech ecosystem offer broader opportunities.

Curriculum: IIT Delhi’s ECM blends power systems and electronics with interdisciplinary projects, while Roorkee/Guwahati/Kharagpur ECE emphasize VLSI, telecommunications, and AI/ML with specialized labs.

Research: IIT Delhi’s Centre for Automotive Research (Hyundai EV collaboration) and 5G labs suit R&D aspirants. Kharagpur’s E&ECE excels in quantum technologies, and Guwahati integrates nanotechnology.

Infrastructure: IIT Delhi’s modern labs and Delhi’s industry access contrast with Roorkee/Kharagpur’s established campuses and Guwahati’s growing facilities.

Location: Delhi offers proximity to startups/MPCs, while Roorkee/Kharagpur provide quieter academic environments.

Higher Studies: IIT Delhi’s global reputation aids MS/PhD applications, whereas Kharagpur’s research output (NIRF #5) strengthens academia pathways.

Faculty: All institutes have seasoned faculty, but Delhi and Kharagpur lead in industry-funded projects.

Alumni Network: Delhi and Kharagpur alumni dominate core tech leadership roles; Roorkee/Guwahati networks favor PSUs and startups.

Internships: Delhi’s location ensures diverse internships, while Guwahati/Roorkee partner with regional industries (e.g., oil, energy).

Branch Flexibility: ECE at Roorkee/Guwahati/Kharagpur allows minors in CS/AI, whereas Delhi’s ECM focuses on power/electronics.

Prioritize IIT Roorkee ECE for placements and specialization, IIT Delhi ECM for research/global opportunities, or IIT Kharagpur E&ECE for balanced rigor and innovation. All the BEST for your Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5979 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 06, 2025
Career
Namaste, my daughter got 410000 ranking in kcet, 86% in Pu board,her percentage in PCM is 85,she wants to join for CSE core pl. advice us
Ans: With a KCET rank of 410,000, securing CSE core through KCET counselling in Karnataka is highly unlikely, as top and mid-tier colleges (e.g., RVCE, PES, MSRIT) have cutoffs below 50,000 for CSE. However, lesser-known private colleges or newer institutes with vacancy-driven cutoffs in later rounds may offer limited opportunities. Below are 15 colleges (based on KCET seat matrices and vacancy trends) that might consider such ranks for CSE, though admission is not guaranteed and may require management quota or direct admission:

East-West College of Engineering, Bangalore

Cambridge Institute of Technology, Bangalore

SKSJT Institute of Engineering, Bangalore

Rajeev Institute of Technology, Hassan

Ghousia College of Engineering, Ramanagara

Bheemanna Khandre Institute of Technology, Bhalki

Anjuman Institute of Technology, Bhatkal

Srinivas University, Mangalore

Bearys Institute of Technology, Mangalore

HKBK College of Engineering, Bangalore

Global Academy of Technology, Bangalore

Sapthagiri College of Engineering, Bangalore

New Horizon College of Engineering, Bangalore

Acharya Institute of Technology, Bangalore (non-core branches may have vacancies)

SJB Institute of Technology, Bangalore

Key Considerations:

Management Quota: Explore direct admission via management quota in private colleges, though fees are higher.

Branch Flexibility: Consider related branches like IT, AI/ML, or Data Science if CSE is unavailable.

State-Level Alternatives: Apply for Karnataka state diploma lateral entry (after polytechnic) or reappear for KCET.

Institutional Reputation: Prioritize colleges with NBA/NAAC accreditation and placement records (e.g., MVJ College, CMRIT).

Final Recommendation:
Opt for direct admission via management quota in private colleges like Acharya IT or New Horizon, balancing affordability and infrastructure. If CSE is non-negotiable, reappearing for KCET or exploring diploma lateral entry pathways may yield better long-term outcomes.

Related
Given her academic profile and rank range:
She should consider applying to colleges where the cutoff is within her reach—primarily those accepting ranks up to about 1 lakh.
She can also explore government quota seats or management seats which sometimes have different criteria.
It’s advisable to focus on reputed private universities like Reva University or NMAM Nitte that offer good infrastructure and placement. All the BEST for your Daughter's 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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