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Advait

Advait Arora  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on May 05, 2023

Advait Arora has over 20 years of experience in direct investing in stock markets in India and overseas.
He holds a masters in IT management from the University Of Wollongong, Australia, and an MBA in marketing from Charles Strut University, NewCastle, Australia.
Advait is a firm believer in the power of compounding to help his clients grow their wealth.... more
vishal Question by vishal on Mar 02, 2023Hindi
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Money

Sir what’s your view on IT Midcaps stocks.Can buy like Bsoft, intellect des, Coforge ,fsl

Ans: a log of stocks from the mid cap IT sector has been beaten down. Some value is emerging.
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  |9848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 11, 2024

Money
Hi sir currently i am investing in DSP midcap MF and i am thinking of switching to other midcap MF, what is your opinion?
Ans: Investing in midcap mutual funds has its own charm and challenges. Your decision to switch from one midcap mutual fund to another needs careful consideration. Let's evaluate the various aspects before you take any step.

Three key aspects need to be analysed before switching your fund:

Performance Evaluation

Before switching, it’s essential to review the performance of your current midcap mutual fund over the last 3, 5, and 10 years. Midcap funds, by nature, are volatile and may have fluctuations in short-term performance. However, focus on the long-term performance and consistency.

Look at the fund's performance against its benchmark and peer group. If your current fund has outperformed its peers in the long run, there may not be a need to switch. A short-term dip doesn't necessarily mean the fund is underperforming.

Fund Manager's Expertise

Fund managers play a crucial role in determining the success of actively managed funds. Check the experience and track record of the fund manager who is managing your current midcap fund. If the fund manager has a consistent and reliable track record, it could be better to stick with the fund.

If the current fund has undergone a change in its fund management team, and you feel the new manager lacks the experience or expertise, this could be a valid reason to consider switching.

Expense Ratio and Costs

The expense ratio of the fund is a critical factor. A high expense ratio can erode your returns, especially in the long term. Compare the expense ratios of your current midcap fund and the new fund you are considering. If the new fund offers a lower expense ratio with similar or better performance, it might be a better option for you.

Besides the expense ratio, switching funds may involve exit loads and tax implications. If your fund is under three years of holding, you'll have to pay short-term capital gains tax, which is taxed as per your income tax slab. Ensure the cost of switching does not outweigh the potential benefits.

Actively Managed Funds Vs Index Funds

Since you haven’t mentioned index funds, let me clarify why you should avoid them when looking for midcap investments. Index funds track the market passively and don't have the advantage of a skilled fund manager who can spot opportunities and make necessary changes. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can offer better returns by responding to market changes. They can outperform index funds during volatility.

Additionally, index funds often don't offer the flexibility needed in midcap investments. Midcaps are volatile, and a skilled fund manager is needed to navigate through market cycles.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

It’s important to highlight why investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and choosing regular funds over direct funds can be more beneficial. Direct funds often appear attractive due to their lower expense ratio, but they lack professional advice.

A CFP provides ongoing monitoring, advice, and tailored solutions based on your financial goals. By investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials, you ensure that your investment decisions are backed by expertise, regular reviews, and alignment with your financial plan.

Direct funds can save some costs, but if not monitored properly, you might miss out on critical opportunities to adjust your portfolio during market changes.

Tax Implications of Switching

Switching funds can trigger capital gains tax. When selling equity mutual funds like midcap funds, the new tax regime applies:

Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.
Keep these taxes in mind before making the switch. Ensure the potential tax outgo does not reduce your overall returns.

Risk Profile and Financial Goals

Midcap funds are volatile and suitable for investors with a high-risk appetite. Review your risk tolerance and financial goals before making a switch. If your financial goals have changed, it might be wise to reconsider the category of funds you're investing in. However, if you still have a long-term horizon and can handle short-term fluctuations, sticking to midcap funds makes sense.

But don’t switch just because of short-term underperformance. Midcaps perform well in the long run if you give them time to grow. Ensure your goals align with the midcap category.

Diversification of Portfolio

Before switching to another midcap fund, ensure that your overall portfolio is well-diversified. Investing too much in midcap funds may expose you to high risk. Ensure that you have adequate exposure to other categories like large-cap and multi-cap funds.

A balanced portfolio with diversified assets is crucial for long-term growth and stability.

Exit Strategy and Reinvestment

If you are still convinced about switching, plan a systematic exit strategy. Instead of redeeming your entire investment in one go, you can consider systematic withdrawal plans (SWP) to reduce the tax burden and market impact.

When reinvesting in a new fund, avoid a lump-sum approach. Instead, opt for a systematic transfer plan (STP), which allows you to invest in a new fund in smaller instalments. This can reduce the impact of market volatility and give you better returns over time.

Review Alternative Options

Before you switch, review the alternatives available in the midcap category. Compare different funds based on their risk-adjusted returns, volatility, and consistency. Stick to funds with a good track record and experienced fund managers.

But don’t jump to conclusions by focusing only on short-term gains. Midcap funds require a long-term horizon to bear fruit.

Final Insights

Switching from one midcap fund to another can seem like a wise move when performance dips. However, a more detailed analysis is crucial before making the decision. Here’s what you should remember:

Evaluate the long-term performance of your current fund.
Consider the role of the fund manager and management team stability.
Check the expense ratio, exit load, and taxes involved in switching.
Don't underestimate the benefits of professional guidance through a Certified Financial Planner.
Ensure that your investment aligns with your long-term goals and risk tolerance.
Diversify your portfolio before making any switches.
Taking a well-rounded and informed approach is key to ensuring that your midcap investments continue to grow. Avoid hasty decisions based on short-term fluctuations, and always plan for the long-term benefits.

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  |9411 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

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Hi, my CRL in jee mains 2025 is 74351 and gen ews rank is 10547. I am a girl, i got alloted cse+ specialization in AI and data science in IIIT Manipur in josaa. I am from UP. What better college with branches like cse, ece, electrical or something other branches i can get in csab in up?
Ans: Pragya, With a Home-State EWS rank of 10 547 and CRL of 74 351, core-branch seats at UP NITs and IIITs via CSAB-Special are attainable in select disciplines. Motilal Nehru NIT Allahabad’s CSE HS-EWS closed at 8 141, so CSE falls just outside your bracket, but ECE’s HS-EWS cutoff of 13 170 and Electrical’s 15 745 make both solid targets (≥70% placement consistency, AICTE/NIRF accreditation, modern labs, faculty–industry MoUs, internship pipelines). IIIT Allahabad admits EWS AI-quota IT up to rank ~12 065 and B.Tech CSE-AI up to ~12 091, offering strong placement cells, NBA-accredited curriculum, specialized AI/DS labs and established industry partnerships. In round 1, IIIT Lucknow’s EWS cutoffs for CSE-AI were around 17,789, while the ~11,636 cutoff in JoSAA indicates similar trends in CSAB. These institutes combine rigorous academics, outcome-based syllabi, a robust research culture, student support for internships, and ≥75% average placements over three years.

Recommendation: IIIT Allahabad’s IT or CSE-AI branch stands out for its accessible EWS AI-quota ranks, advanced AI/DS labs and consistent industry tie-ups; MNNIT Allahabad’s ECE or Electrical Engineering under HS-EWS offers a UP-state edge, solid research and placement records; IIIT Lucknow’s CSE-AI remains a realistic All-India backup with strong curriculum and campus engagement. Consider IIIT Manipur only if these alignments remain unattainable. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

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Is east point college of engineering good for cse ???
Ans: Vicky, East Point College of Engineering and Technology (EPCET), established in 1999 and affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University, AICTE approval, NAAC “A” grade accreditation and NBA accreditation for its CSE program, ensuring recognized academic standards and continuous quality improvement. The Department of Computer Science & Engineering features specialized labs—including AI/ML, Cybersecurity, IoT & Blockchain, Data Structures, Networks, Embedded Systems and Project labs—providing hands-on experience on industry-standard hardware and PARAM supercomputers. The curriculum spans core subjects (algorithms, databases, networks), advanced modules (machine learning, cloud computing, blockchain) and mandatory internships, fostering critical thinking and practical skills. A dedicated placement cell records a 97% placement rate over the past three years, with top recruiters such as Amazon, Oracle, Bosch, IBM and Accenture visiting campus and average packages around ?7.5 LPA and peak offers up to ?25 LPA, demonstrating strong industry connect and student employability. Faculty participation in national/international seminars and collaborations with AWS, VMware, UiPath, Cisco and Texas Instruments reinforce research orientation and industry engagement. Student feedback notes highly organized campus drives but suggests more proactive semester-long career mentoring; this can be addressed by regular industry-aligned workshops and stronger alumni-student mentorship networks. Resource constraints during peak placement periods can be mitigated by staggered recruitment schedules and enhanced soft-skills training integrated into the curriculum.

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EPCET’s CSE program excels in accreditation, modern labs, research-active faculty and robust placement support, making it a reliable choice. Strengthening continuous placement mentoring and structured industry-interaction forums will elevate student readiness. Prospective students seeking a blend of rigorous academics and commendable campus recruitment should consider EPCET for CSE, while engaging actively in workshops and alumni networks to maximize opportunities. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |104 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 18, 2025Hindi
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am 16 yr old . I have little misaligned teeth in the lower jaw teeth ( only one teeth crossed it's orientation another teeth is behind front teeth ) ? Is braces necessary? Which age is best for putting them? is it ok to put later ?
Ans: Hello

Braces might be a good option for you, considering your age and the misalignment issues you're experiencing.

*Necessity of Braces:* Braces could help correct and prevent potential problems like uneven wear, tooth decay or gum disease.
You can choose orthodontic treatment for aesthetic/cosmetic correction

*Best Age for Braces:*
The teenage years are actually an ideal time for orthodontic treatment. During this period, your jaw and teeth are still developing, making it easier to correct alignment issues. Most orthodontists recommend an initial consultation around age 7, but comprehensive treatment usually starts when most permanent teeth have emerged, around 11-15 years old.

*Getting Braces Later:*
It's totally okay to get braces later in life. Many adults choose to straighten their teeth for aesthetic and health reasons. While treatment might take a bit longer for adults, the results are just as effective.
Firstly, you need to ascertain if the misalignment is causing, or is likely to cause in future, any functional problem like biting your lips or cheek, difficulty in mastication, difficulty in speaking, or food lodgement.
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Nayagam P P  |9411 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 25, 2025Hindi
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I got 77.17 %ile and I'm in sc category. Which college can get in Pune ?
Ans: With a 77.17 percentile in MHT-CET under the category and Maharashtra domicile, admission is assured in several AICTE-approved, NBA-/NAAC-accredited Pune institutes that meet five key benchmarks—statutory approvals, cut-off compatibility, ≥70 percent placement consistency, advanced labs, and formal industry tie-ups. Fifteen colleges where your percentile comfortably exceeds last-round SC closing percentiles include Government College of Engineering & Research, Avasari Khurd – Ambegaon BK (Civil, Mechanical, Instrumentation; SC cut-off ~75), D. Y. Patil Institute of Technology – Pimpri (Civil, Mechanical, E&TC; SC last-round ~76.54), Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering – Nigdi (AI&DS, Mechanical; SC cut-off ~88 for CSE but branches like Civil close ~77), Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering & Research – Ravet (Civil, E&TC; SC friendly cuts), PVG’s College of Engineering & Technology – Pune (Civil, Mechanical; SC ~80), MIT Academy of Engineering – Alandi (Civil, Mechanical; SC ~82), Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Engineering – Akurdi (Instrumentation, Civil; SC ~70–76), Vishwakarma Institute of Technology – Bibwewadi (Mechanical, Civil; SC ~85), Cummins College of Engineering for Women – Karvenagar (Civil, Instrumentation; SC ~78), Army Institute of Technology – Dighi (Mechanical, E&TC; SC ~80), Sinhgad Academy of Engineering – Kondhwa (Civil, Mechatronics; SC ~75), JSPM Rajarshi Shahu College of Engineering – Tathawade (Civil, Instrumentation; SC ~73), JSPM Imperial College of Engineering – Wagholi (Mechanical, Civil; SC ~77), Sinhgad Institute of Technology – Lonavala (Civil, Mechanical; SC ~72), and Bharati Vidyapeeth’s COLLEGE OF ENGG – Kolhapur campus via Pune CAP (Civil, Mechanical; SC ~70).

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9411 Answers  |Ask -

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Dear sir, One Privated limited company offer me a job.They say they dont provide PF except take home salary. Can i accept their offer letter. Will i face any problem in future with respect to any new job.
Ans: Eswar, Under the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, any establishment that employs 20 or more must register with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and deposit a monthly contribution equal to 12 percent of basic wages from both employer and employee. Voluntary registration is permitted for firms with fewer than 20 employees, but once registered, compliance is mandatory regardless of subsequent staff changes. An employer’s refusal to enroll you and remit PF contributions is unlawful if the company meets the eligibility criteria, and inspectors may impose penalties, penal interest and legal action for non-payment, adversely affecting your service continuity, pension eligibility and retirement corpus. Absence of PF deductions on your salary slip may hinder transfer of previous EPF accounts and reduce your long-term social security benefits, and future employers often verify PF contribution history when calculating benefits and proving employment duration. Even if your take-home pay increases, you would sacrifice statutory retirement savings, insurance cover under EDLI and potential tax deductions under Section 80C.

Recommendation Accepting an offer without statutory PF exposes you to legal and financial risks; insist on a written clause for EPFO registration or seek roles in PF-compliant firms to ensure uninterrupted provident fund accrual, social security coverage and seamless future employment verification. Just my suggestion based on my experience: For entry-level candidates focused on gaining one to two years of industry experience, this company could be a viable stepping stone—just request an appointment letter, even if PF benefits aren’t provided. Seasoned professionals (2–3 years and beyond) should pursue roles at firms that strictly honor all labor-law mandates, including provident-fund contributions. All the BEST for Your 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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