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Dev Ashish  | Answer  |Ask -

MF Expert, Financial Planner - Answered on Sep 22, 2023

Dev Ashish is a fee-only SEBI-registered investment advisor with over 15 years of active experience in the stock market. In 2011, he founded StableInvestor, a platform for personal finance and financial planning.
He provides professional fee-only investment advisory services to small and high networth individuals in order to help them achieve their financial goals.
Ashish's views are regularly published in national business publications. He has an MBA degree from NMIMS, Mumbai and also holds an engineering degree.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Sep 12, 2023Hindi
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what are the tax implications associated with Investing in gold in India, either in its physical form or via sovereign gold bonds (SGBs) and gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs)

Ans: This requires a detailed explanation. I had written a detailed article on this gold taxation aspect. Please check it here - https://stableinvestor.com/2020/06/taxation-gold-capital-gains.html
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  |8608 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 17, 2024

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Thank you. I have a follow up question about purchasing gold coins for investment. The seller imposes making charges and GST when purchasing gold coins and this reduces the returns on gold coins when you sell it. What is your recommendation to include gold in the portfolio and what percentage of investments should be in gold? Thanks
Ans: Including gold in your investment portfolio can offer diversification and act as a hedge against inflation and market volatility. However, the costs associated with purchasing and storing physical gold, such as making charges, GST, and safe storage costs, can impact your returns. Here are some recommendations on how to include gold in your portfolio and the suggested percentage allocation:

Gold ETFs or Gold Mutual Funds:

Advantages: Gold ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) and Gold Mutual Funds offer a cost-effective way to invest in gold without incurring making charges or GST.
Allocation: Consider allocating 5-10% of your investment portfolio to gold ETFs or Gold Mutual Funds to diversify your portfolio and mitigate risks.
Gold Savings Fund:

Advantages: Gold Savings Funds invest in gold ETFs and offer the convenience of SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) investments. They also provide the benefit of professional fund management.
Allocation: You can allocate a portion of your monthly SIP towards Gold Savings Funds to accumulate gold over time.
Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs):

Advantages: SGBs are government-backed securities denominated in grams of gold. They offer an annual interest rate and capital gains tax benefits if held until maturity.
Allocation: Consider investing in SGBs as part of your fixed income allocation, keeping in mind the lock-in period and liquidity constraints.
Physical Gold Coins or Bars:

Advantages: Physical gold offers tangible ownership and can be a part of your emergency reserve or long-term wealth preservation strategy.
Allocation: If you prefer physical gold, limit the allocation to a smaller percentage (e.g., 1-2% of your portfolio) due to the additional costs and liquidity constraints.
Recommendations:

Diversification: Include gold as a part of your diversified investment portfolio to mitigate risks and enhance overall returns.
Cost Consideration: Opt for cost-effective investment options like Gold ETFs, Gold Mutual Funds, or Gold Savings Funds to avoid high making charges and GST.
Asset Allocation: Maintain a balanced asset allocation based on your risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon. A typical allocation to gold ranges from 5% to 10% of the total portfolio.
Regular Review: Periodically review your investment portfolio and rebalance as needed to maintain the desired asset allocation and align with your financial goals.
Consult with a financial advisor to determine the most suitable allocation to gold based on your individual financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance to help you make informed investment decisions.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8608 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 04, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, Please advise, I want to invest 2 lakhs in gold (and not physical gold). How do I go about it? (Process, any tax?, and do you suggest a better amount) This is for my child's future and not planning to liquidate atleast for 10 years. FYI, I already have some FD, 20k invested in various MF's, LIC and SSY. I might have to bear home loan now or sooner in time. I am 35 year old working in private firm.
Ans: As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend investing in gold through gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) or gold mutual funds.

To begin, you'll need a demat account to invest in gold ETFs, while for gold mutual funds, a regular mutual fund account suffices. Both options provide easy access to gold without the hassle of physical ownership.

Tax implications on gains from gold investments depend on the holding period. Long-term gains (held for over three years) are subject to capital gains tax, while short-term gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Considering your child's future and a 10-year investment horizon, allocating 2 lakhs to gold is prudent. This diversifies your portfolio, reducing risk while potentially enhancing returns over the long term.

Given your existing investments and the possibility of a home loan, it's crucial to strike a balance between various investment avenues. Assess your risk tolerance, liquidity needs, and financial goals before making any investment decisions.

By investing in gold through ETFs or mutual funds, you gain exposure to the precious metal's potential upside without the concerns of storage or security associated with physical gold. Regularly review your portfolio and consult with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure it remains aligned with your evolving financial objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8608 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 01, 2024Hindi
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Hello, Hope you are doing well. I would like to know in India is it good to buy and keep Gold coins or bars? Is there any tax/ capital gain during the sale of gold coin or bar? Which is better gold coin or bar?
Ans: Gold is a popular investment in India. It offers a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. Let's discuss the pros and cons of investing in gold coins and bars.

Advantages of Gold Coins
Portability: Gold coins are easy to store and transport.

Smaller Denominations: Coins can be purchased in small amounts, making them accessible for small investors.

Design and Collectibility: Coins often have unique designs and can be collectible.

Advantages of Gold Bars
Lower Premiums: Gold bars generally have lower premiums over the spot price compared to coins.

Bulk Investment: Bars are ideal for larger investments as they come in higher denominations.

Storage Efficiency: Bars take up less space compared to an equivalent value in coins.

Tax Implications
Capital Gains Tax: Selling gold coins or bars is subject to capital gains tax. The rate depends on the holding period.

Short-Term Gains: If held for less than 36 months, gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Long-Term Gains: If held for more than 36 months, gains are taxed at 20% with indexation benefits.

Wealth Tax: Wealth tax on gold was abolished in 2015.

Investing in Gold Funds
Gold funds are an excellent alternative to physical gold. They offer several advantages over gold coins and bars. Let’s explore why gold funds might be a better choice for you.

Advantages of Gold Funds
Liquidity: Gold funds are highly liquid. You can buy or sell units easily.

No Storage Issues: Unlike physical gold, gold funds don't require physical storage or security.

Diversification: Gold funds often invest in a diversified portfolio of gold-related assets, including gold mining companies.

Ease of Investment: Investing in gold funds is straightforward and can be done through mutual fund platforms or online brokers.

Professional Management: Fund managers handle the investment decisions, offering expertise and research that might be hard to manage individually.

Tax Implications of Gold Funds
Capital Gains Tax: Similar to physical gold, gold funds are subject to capital gains tax.

Short-Term Gains: If held for less than 36 months, gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Long-Term Gains: If held for more than 36 months, gains are taxed at 20% with indexation benefits.

No Wealth Tax: Wealth tax on gold funds was also abolished in 2015.

Comparing Gold Funds with Physical Gold
Convenience: Gold funds eliminate the need for physical storage and security concerns.

Transparency: Fund performance is tracked through NAVs (Net Asset Values), making it easier to monitor your investment.

Cost-Effective: Gold funds usually have lower transaction costs compared to buying physical gold.

Diversification: Provides exposure to gold without the risks associated with holding physical gold.

Final Insights
Investment Convenience: Gold funds offer ease of investment and liquidity without physical storage hassles.

Tax Efficiency: Capital gains tax applies, but gold funds manage this efficiently with transparent reporting.

Professional Management: Benefit from professional management and research when investing in gold funds.

Diversification: Consider gold funds for diversification and to avoid the challenges of physical gold.

Gold funds can be a practical choice if you want exposure to gold without the complexities of holding physical gold. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to align your investment with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5507 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 30, 2025

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I'm getting CSE Core at JSS University , CSE with Cyber Security at JIIT , CSE core in VIT Bhopal in category 2, and CSE Core in ABESIT. Which one should i choose?
Ans: VIT Bhopal’s Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) program offers a centralized placement system shared with VIT Vellore, attracting top recruiters like Microsoft, Amazon, TCS, and Infosys. While placements vary, 70–90% of CSE students secure roles, with internships at firms like Google, Adobe, and JP Morgan integrated into the curriculum. The campus features modern infrastructure, including advanced labs (IoT, AI/ML, Gaming Studio), Wi-Fi-enabled hostels, and a 600-seat auditorium, though sports facilities remain under development. Faculty members hold doctorate qualifications and emphasize industry-aligned learning, though some students report inconsistent academic support. The remote location (Bhopal-Indore highway) limits urban amenities but provides a serene, security-focused environment. Campus life includes tech clubs, hackathons, and festivals, though social activities are less vibrant compared to older VIT campuses. While CSE specializations (AI/ML, Cybersecurity) are well-structured, competition for core roles is intense, requiring students to maintain strong academic performance. Prospective students should weigh the centralized placement opportunities against the evolving campus infrastructure and location constraints. Prioritize JSS Mysore for balanced academics and placements, followed by JIIT Noida for specialization options. VIT Bhopal is ideal for brand-driven opportunities, while ABESIT serves as a pragmatic backup. All the BEST for your Admission & Prosperous Future!

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8608 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
sir, am 26 year old and have some SIPs for Rs 1000 each. 1. QUANT SMALL CAP FUND DIRECT 2. NIPPON INDIA LARGE CAP DIRECT 3. MIRAE ASSEST ELSS TAX SAVER 4. UTI NIFTY 50 5. PARAG PARIKH FLEXI CAP 6. TATA MIDCAP GROWTH DIRECT 7. TATA SMALL CAP DIRECT my question is, these are good SIPs for next 10-15 years ? second is i want to invest 10000 more per month, please let me know which SIPs will be good for next 15 years. Thanks
Ans: At age 26, it is appreciable that you have started investing early.

It shows responsibility towards your future financial goals.

Your current SIPs are diversified across multiple categories.

But some of these SIPs may not be aligned well for long-term consistency.

Let us now review each one professionally.

1. Quant Small Cap Fund - Direct

Small caps can be volatile.

This fund is aggressive and high-risk.

Direct plans have no guidance or monitoring.

This may affect long-term performance.

Switching to a regular plan with a Certified Financial Planner is better.

This will ensure proper guidance and rebalancing.

2. Nippon India Large Cap - Direct

Large caps offer stability in a portfolio.

However, this fund’s long-term consistency is not very strong.

Also, direct plans lack expert monitoring.

A regular plan through a CFP ensures better handholding.

Tracking and performance review becomes easier.

3. Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver

This fund is decent for tax saving.

It is diversified and has shown fair returns.

However, regular review is still needed.

A regular plan helps with documentation and timely alerts.

Switching to regular mode can be beneficial in the long run.

4. UTI Nifty 50 - Direct

This is an index fund.

Index funds only mirror the market.

They do not aim to beat the market.

They lack human intelligence and flexibility.

They don’t perform well during corrections or sideways markets.

Actively managed funds have higher potential.

They can outperform in changing market situations.

Consider replacing this with a well-managed large cap fund.

In regular plan through CFP, you get guided fund selection.

5. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap

Flexi cap funds provide flexibility across market segments.

This fund has been popular recently.

But it has higher exposure to international stocks.

This brings currency risk and regulatory risks.

Also, it may overlap with other holdings.

You should regularly monitor for overlap and concentration.

Again, direct mode has no professional review.

6. Tata Midcap Growth - Direct

Midcaps are good for long-term.

But they need close tracking due to higher volatility.

A regular plan with expert guidance is ideal.

Direct mode will not help during market correction periods.

Switching to regular mode will ensure ongoing support.

7. Tata Small Cap - Direct

Small caps are risky in short to medium term.

This should not be your core holding.

Should be allocated only with close guidance.

Again, direct plans can go off-track without support.

If unmanaged, can bring portfolio imbalance.

Assessment of Direct Funds: Key Concerns

Direct funds may look cheaper in expense.

But they lack professional support and review.

There is no monitoring of changes in fund quality.

You may miss timely exits and rebalancing.

A Certified Financial Planner guides with logic and analysis.

They also help align your funds with your goals.

Regular plans have MFD support and rebalancing discipline.

They protect from behavioural mistakes during market volatility.

Overall, regular funds with expert guidance bring higher net value.

What Can Be Done with Your Existing SIPs?

You can consider the following changes:

Discontinue index fund (UTI Nifty 50) SIP.

   

Reduce exposure to direct small and midcap funds.

   

Switch from direct plans to regular plans via a Certified Financial Planner.

   

Ensure SIPs are part of a professionally constructed portfolio.

   

Ensure proper asset allocation, fund category balancing and tax efficiency.

   

New SIP of Rs 10,000 per Month – Suggestions

For your new Rs 10,000 monthly SIP, here is a 360-degree plan:

Allocate across diversified categories.

   

Ensure each fund has low overlap and different market focus.

   

Invest in 3 to 4 funds max.

   

All in regular mode with CFP-led support.

   

Avoid index funds, as they only match market returns.

   

Go for actively managed funds with proven history.

   

Include large-cap, mid-cap and flexi-cap mix.

   

Monitor quarterly with your Certified Financial Planner.

   

Additional Guidance for 15-Year Wealth Building

At 26, your time horizon is excellent.

But long-term wealth creation needs more than just SIPs.

It needs strategy and discipline.

Below are key steps for a full-circle approach:

Set clear financial goals: Home, car, retirement, child education etc.

   

Link SIPs to each goal separately.

   

Keep emergency fund in place (6 months expenses).

   

Get sufficient life and health insurance (pure protection plans).

   

Avoid investment-cum-insurance products.

   

They give low returns and poor insurance.

   

Do not mix insurance with investment.

   

Track your SIP performance annually.

   

Rebalance if some funds underperform.

   

Maintain asset allocation: Equity, Debt and Liquid.

   

Avoid emotional reactions during market dips.

   

Stay invested with guidance from your CFP.

   

Be aware of taxation rules on equity and debt funds.

   

LTCG on equity above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

   

STCG on equity is taxed at 20%.

   

Debt fund gains are taxed as per income slab.

   

Regular plan MFD and CFP helps with all tax planning.

   

What Not to Do in the Next 15 Years

Don’t invest in index funds.

   

They lack active strategy.

   

Don’t choose funds by past returns only.

   

Don’t use direct funds without financial expertise.

   

Don’t invest in real estate for returns.

   

Don’t invest in annuity products for retirement.

   

Don’t mix investment and insurance.

   

Don’t make decisions based on short-term news or noise.

   

Don’t stop SIPs during market corrections.

   

Role of a Certified Financial Planner

A Certified Financial Planner helps you:

Set goals based on life stages.

   

Create custom SIP and lump sum plans.

   

Select the best active funds for your goals.

   

Rebalance annually to stay on track.

   

Plan taxes as per latest rules.

   

Protect wealth with right insurances.

   

Build retirement with strategic planning.

   

Create a total financial blueprint for life.

   

Keep emotions out of financial decisions.

   

Final Insights

You have taken a great step by starting early.

But choosing the right funds is key.

More important is monitoring them regularly.

Direct plans lack this important support.

Switching to regular plans under CFP brings value.

Also, add Rs 10,000 new SIP with proper strategy.

Don’t follow trends.

Stay committed and review annually.

Avoid overlapping funds and unnecessary risks.

Have a complete financial roadmap in place.

You are building your future.

Make each rupee work with expert guidance.

This 360-degree approach will lead to better outcomes.

You will be financially secure and confident.

Take the next steps with clarity and care.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8608 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 30, 2025
Money
Dear Sir I had ancestral property at native place which fetch 14K Rent monthly...Property is 40Years old.. Will it be good If I sell that property for 70Lakh and keep that money in Balanced fund or in NPS account
Ans: You are thinking wisely about your assets.

Let’s look at this from a 360-degree perspective.

Rental Income vs Sale Value

The property gives you Rs. 14,000 monthly rent.

That is Rs. 1.68 lakhs per year.

Over 10 years, you may earn Rs. 16 to 18 lakhs from rent.

Maintenance cost, property tax, and repairs will reduce this further.

Also, a 40-year-old property needs more upkeep.

Its resale value may not grow much more from here.

Selling now for Rs. 70 lakhs gives you full value in hand.

You can use that money in better investment options.

Emotional Value vs Financial Value

Being ancestral property, emotions may be attached.

But emotional value won’t solve financial needs.

If the property is not well located or not appreciating well, selling is practical.

You can honour the legacy in other ways.

Should You Invest in NPS?

NPS is a retirement tool with lock-in till age 60.

You can’t withdraw freely.

It is good for building a pension corpus.

But not suitable if you want liquidity or flexibility.

Once you invest, you cannot move the funds easily.

Also, returns are not consistent. Depends on market and fund manager.

Use NPS only for a part of your funds if your retirement goal is clear.

Should You Put in Balanced Funds?

Balanced funds (also called hybrid funds) invest in both equity and debt.

They are good for moderate risk and stable returns.

Suitable for long-term goals like retirement, child's education, or financial freedom.

They give better return than traditional options.

But don’t invest in direct plans.

Direct funds don’t guide during volatility.

Regular plans through MFD with CFP support are better.

You get timely advice and fund switching support.

Active fund managers make strategy changes.

Index funds or passive options don’t do that.

Actively managed balanced funds are better for Indian investors.

What You Should Do Now

Sell the property if there’s no growth and rising maintenance.

Use part of the Rs. 70 lakhs to reduce any high-interest debt.

Keep 6 to 12 months of expenses as emergency fund in liquid mutual fund.

Invest the rest through SIP and STP in regular hybrid funds.

Plan your financial goals with a Certified Financial Planner.

For retirement, use mutual funds along with PPF and EPF.

Use NPS for small part only, due to lack of liquidity.

Tax Impact You Should Know

On sale, capital gains tax will apply.

Since it's ancestral property, indexed cost and holding period matter.

Tax can be planned using capital gain bonds or reinvestment.

Don’t keep all money in savings account. Plan it step-by-step.

A Suggested Allocation Strategy (Not Specific Schemes)

Rs. 10 to 15 lakhs – emergency and contingency in liquid or short-term fund.

Rs. 40 to 45 lakhs – invest gradually in hybrid and multicap mutual funds.

Rs. 10 lakhs – use for NPS only if you have no urgent needs till age 60.

Avoid direct funds, index funds, or annuity options.

Use regular funds via MFD under CFP guidance.

Final Insights

Selling old property and investing is a progressive step.

You are unlocking stuck value into a growing asset.

Old assets slow down your money’s growth.

Balanced mutual funds help you grow with moderate risk.

NPS gives tax benefit but lacks flexibility.

Don’t invest entire money in NPS. Use mix of better tools.

Avoid emotional attachment if the property is non-performing.

Turn this decision into a lifetime opportunity.

Your wealth deserves active planning, not passive holding.

Take support from a Certified Financial Planner to execute wisely.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Dr Upneet

Dr Upneet Kaur  |40 Answers  |Ask -

Marriage counsellor - Answered on May 30, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5507 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 30, 2025

Career
I have 142 marks in MET and 76% in boards. Is it possible for me to get in CSE ( or any specialization like AI/ML or financial technology ) at the main campus? If not should I go for Bengluru campus?
Ans: Sneh, With 142 MET marks (expected rank ~2,001–4,500) and 76% in boards, admission to CSE, AI/ML, or Financial Technology at MIT Manipal (main campus) is unlikely, as the 2024 closing ranks for these branches were CSE: 1,633, AI/ML: 2,255, and Financial Tech: 3,189. However, MIT Bengaluru offers viable alternatives, with 2024 cutoffs of CSE: 5,687, AI/ML: 7,244, and Financial Tech: 9,116, all within your rank range. While the main campus remains competitive, Bengaluru provides comparable academic rigor and industry exposure, albeit with marginally lower placement averages. During MET counselling, prioritize CSE at Bengaluru or specialized branches like AI/ML/Financial Tech as achievable options. If preferring Manipal, explore non-CSE branches (e.g., IT, Electronics) with lower cutoffs (~4,500–5,148) or monitor spot rounds for potential vacancies. Your board percentage meets the eligibility criteria (50% PCM), so strategically rank preferences during counselling to optimize admission prospects. Bengaluru serves as a strong backup with aligned opportunities, ensuring a balance between campus reputation and program accessibility.

All the BEST for your Admission & Prosperous Future!

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

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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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