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Nikunj Saraf  | Answer  |Ask -

Mutual Funds Expert - Answered on May 17, 2023

Nikunj Saraf has more than five years of experience in financial markets and offers advice about mutual funds. He is vice president at Choice Wealth, a financial institution that offers broking, insurance, loans and government advisory services. Saraf, who is a member of the Institute Of Chartered Accountants of India, has a strong base in financial markets and wealth management.... more
MADHURA Question by MADHURA on Mar 29, 2023Hindi
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what is the best mutual fund which give good returns in a 3 year time

Ans: Hello Value Investor. Kindly quantify your investment constraints
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  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

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suggest mutual fund for long term for good returns
Ans: Selecting Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth

Investing in mutual funds for long-term growth requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure the suitability of the funds for your financial goals and risk tolerance. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the selection process:

Understanding Long-Term Investment Objectives:

Before choosing mutual funds, it's essential to define your long-term investment objectives, such as wealth accumulation, retirement planning, or funding a specific financial goal. Understanding your investment horizon, risk tolerance, and return expectations will guide you in selecting suitable funds aligned with your objectives.

Analyzing Fund Performance and Track Record:

Evaluate the historical performance and track record of mutual funds over long-term periods, preferably five to ten years or more. Look for funds that have consistently outperformed their benchmarks and peers, demonstrating strong fund management capabilities and investment strategies conducive to long-term growth.

Assessing Fund Management Team:

Examine the expertise and experience of the fund management team responsible for making investment decisions. A skilled and seasoned fund manager with a proven track record of delivering consistent returns can significantly impact the long-term performance of the fund.

Examining Fund Portfolio and Strategy:

Review the composition of the fund's portfolio, including asset allocation, sectoral exposure, and diversification across stocks or securities. A well-diversified portfolio with exposure to different sectors and market caps can mitigate risks and enhance long-term growth potential.

Considering Risk Factors and Volatility:

Evaluate the risk profile of mutual funds, considering factors such as volatility, downside protection, and susceptibility to market fluctuations. While higher-risk funds may offer the potential for greater returns over the long term, they also entail increased volatility and downside risk, which may not be suitable for all investors.

Assessing Expense Ratios and Fees:

Compare the expense ratios and fees associated with mutual funds, including management fees, administrative costs, and other expenses. Lower expense ratios translate to higher returns for investors over the long term, as less of the fund's assets are consumed by fees and charges.

Choosing Fund Categories and Investment Styles:

Select mutual funds from different categories and investment styles to build a diversified portfolio that balances growth potential with risk mitigation. Consider allocating investments across equity funds, debt funds, hybrid funds, and thematic funds based on your risk appetite and investment objectives.

Seeking Professional Advice and Guidance:

Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who can provide personalized advice and guidance tailored to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment preferences. A CFP can help you navigate the mutual fund landscape, select suitable funds, and construct a diversified portfolio optimized for long-term growth.

Conclusion:

Investing in mutual funds for long-term growth requires thorough research, careful analysis, and a disciplined approach to portfolio construction. By focusing on fund performance, management expertise, risk factors, and investment objectives, you can identify suitable mutual funds that align with your long-term financial goals and aspirations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

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BEST AND CLASS OF MUTUAL FUND FOR THREE YRS HORIZON APART FROM FDs
Ans: Choosing the Best Mutual Fund for a Three-Year Horizon

When investing for a three-year horizon, mutual funds offer a diverse and flexible option. Unlike Fixed Deposits (FDs), mutual funds can potentially provide higher returns with a bit of risk. As a Certified Financial Planner, I aim to guide you through selecting the best class of mutual funds tailored for this time frame.

Understanding Mutual Funds
Mutual funds pool money from various investors to invest in diversified securities. These funds are managed by professional fund managers. Different mutual funds cater to different investment needs and risk profiles.

Balanced or Hybrid Funds
Balanced or hybrid funds invest in both equity and debt instruments. They offer a mix of stability and growth potential. For a three-year horizon, balanced funds can provide moderate returns with controlled risk. The debt portion offers stability, while the equity portion provides growth opportunities.

Short-Term Debt Funds
Short-term debt funds invest in fixed-income instruments like treasury bills, commercial papers, and corporate bonds. These funds are less volatile and provide steady returns. For conservative investors looking for stability, short-term debt funds are a good option. They offer better returns than traditional FDs over three years.

Equity Savings Funds
Equity savings funds invest in a mix of equity, debt, and arbitrage opportunities. These funds balance risk and return effectively. For those who seek equity exposure with lower volatility, equity savings funds are suitable. They provide a cushion against market fluctuations.

Dynamic Bond Funds
Dynamic bond funds have the flexibility to adjust their portfolio according to changing interest rates. These funds actively manage the duration of their investments. For investors looking for better returns in varying interest rate scenarios, dynamic bond funds are beneficial. They are suitable for a three-year investment horizon.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have a team of expert fund managers making strategic decisions. These managers aim to outperform the market. For investors, actively managed funds can potentially offer higher returns. They are suitable for those willing to take calculated risks for better gains.

Understanding the Risks
Investing in mutual funds comes with certain risks. The value of investments can fluctuate based on market conditions. It's important to understand your risk tolerance. For a three-year horizon, selecting funds that align with your risk appetite is crucial.

Diversification Matters
Diversification helps in spreading risk across different asset classes. By investing in diversified mutual funds, you reduce the impact of poor performance in any single asset. This approach helps in achieving more stable returns over three years.

Benefits of Regular Plans
Regular plans come with the guidance of a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). They provide professional advice and continuous support. For investors, this ensures better decision-making and management of their investment portfolio.

Disadvantages of Direct Plans
Direct plans do not offer the same level of guidance as regular plans. Investors need to have in-depth knowledge and time to manage their investments. For those who prefer expert advice, regular plans are more beneficial.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Regular review and rebalancing of your investment portfolio are important. It ensures that your investments stay aligned with your financial goals. A Certified Financial Planner can help in making necessary adjustments.

The Power of SIP
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly. SIPs average out market volatility and instill financial discipline. For a three-year horizon, SIPs in mutual funds can help in building a significant corpus.

Conclusion
Selecting the right mutual fund for a three-year horizon requires understanding your financial goals and risk appetite. Balanced funds, short-term debt funds, equity savings funds, and dynamic bond funds are good options. Actively managed funds offer potential higher returns, and regular plans provide professional guidance. Regular review and SIPs can enhance your investment journey.

Investing wisely can help you achieve your financial goals effectively. Remember to diversify your investments and seek professional advice when needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 21, 2024

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I want to invest 3 lac for one year in mutual fund. I want a high return. Which mutual fund is suitable for me.
Ans: You wish to invest Rs 3 lakhs in mutual funds for one year and seek high returns. Short-term investments with high returns are possible, but they carry higher risks. Let's explore suitable options while balancing risk and return.

Understanding the Risks

Investing for just one year in mutual funds poses unique risks. Mutual funds, especially those aiming for high returns, are often subject to market volatility. Short-term fluctuations can impact your returns.

Market Risks:
Equity markets can be unpredictable in the short term. A one-year horizon is generally too short for equity mutual funds.

Interest Rate Risks:
Debt funds, especially those investing in longer-duration bonds, can be affected by interest rate movements. Changes in rates can impact the returns of these funds.

Liquidity Risks:
While mutual funds are generally liquid, certain funds may have exit loads if withdrawn before a specified period. This can reduce your net returns.

Short-Term Mutual Fund Options

Given your investment horizon, here are some mutual fund categories that may suit your needs:

Short-Term Debt Funds:
Short-term debt funds invest in debt securities with shorter maturity periods. These funds are less sensitive to interest rate changes and are generally more stable. They offer better returns than traditional savings accounts.

Ultra Short-Term Funds:
These funds invest in instruments with even shorter durations, typically a few months. They are less volatile than longer-duration funds but still offer the potential for decent returns. They are suitable for a one-year investment horizon.

Low Duration Funds:
These funds aim to balance risk and return by investing in bonds with a maturity of six months to one year. They offer slightly higher returns than ultra short-term funds but come with a bit more risk.

Arbitrage Funds:
Arbitrage funds take advantage of price differences between the cash and derivatives markets. They offer equity-like returns with lower risk. These funds are taxed as equity funds, which can be beneficial if held for more than one year.

Why Not Equity Mutual Funds?

You may wonder why equity mutual funds aren’t recommended for a one-year horizon. Equity funds are best suited for long-term investments due to market volatility.

High Volatility:
Equity markets can swing widely in the short term. One year is too short to ride out these fluctuations, which could lead to losses.

Tax Implications:
Short-term capital gains from equity funds are taxed at 15%. This can eat into your returns, making them less attractive for short-term goals.

Avoid Index Funds for Short-Term

Index funds track the performance of a specific market index. While they are great for long-term passive investing, they are not ideal for short-term high returns.

Market Dependency:
Index funds rely on the overall market's performance. In a one-year period, the market may not perform well, leading to lower returns.

No Active Management:
Since index funds are passively managed, they don’t have the flexibility to react to market changes. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can make strategic decisions to protect or enhance returns.

The Disadvantages of Direct Mutual Funds

You might consider direct mutual funds for higher returns. However, they come with their own set of challenges.

Lack of Professional Guidance:
Investing in direct funds requires you to choose and manage your investments on your own. Without professional guidance, you might miss out on important strategies.

Time and Effort:
Managing direct funds requires time and effort to track and rebalance your portfolio. For a one-year investment, you may not have enough time to correct any missteps.

Missing Out on Expert Advice:
Certified Financial Planners offer valuable insights and advice. Investing through a CFP ensures your investments are aligned with your financial goals.

Tax Considerations

Taxes can impact your returns significantly, especially in short-term investments.

Debt Funds:
Short-term capital gains from debt funds are added to your income and taxed according to your slab rate. For someone in the higher tax bracket, this could reduce your net returns.

Arbitrage Funds:
While arbitrage funds are taxed as equity funds, the short-term gains are still taxed at 20%. However, if held for more than one year, they qualify for long-term capital gains tax.

Exit Loads:
Some funds charge an exit load if you redeem your investment before a specified period. Ensure you choose funds with no or low exit loads to maximize your returns.

Liquidity and Access to Funds

Your investment horizon is just one year, so liquidity is crucial. You need to ensure that you can access your funds easily without significant penalties.

Debt Funds:
Most short-term debt funds offer good liquidity. However, check for any exit loads or lock-in periods.

Ultra Short-Term Funds:
These funds are highly liquid, making them ideal for short-term needs. Ensure you understand the fund's liquidity terms before investing.

Arbitrage Funds:
While they are relatively liquid, you should check the exit load structure. Some arbitrage funds may have exit loads if redeemed within a few months.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner

Investing in mutual funds requires careful planning, especially for short-term goals. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you make informed decisions.

Customized Advice:
A CFP will assess your risk tolerance and financial goals. They can recommend funds that align with your needs.

Portfolio Management:
Regular monitoring and rebalancing of your portfolio are crucial. A CFP ensures that your investments stay on track.

Tax Efficiency:
A CFP can help you choose tax-efficient funds. This ensures that you maximize your returns after accounting for taxes.

Finally

Investing Rs 3 lakhs for one year requires careful consideration of risks and returns. Short-term debt funds, ultra short-term funds, and arbitrage funds offer potential options. Avoid equity funds and index funds for this horizon. Consider seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner to align your investments with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
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Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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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