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Ajit

Ajit Mishra  | Answer  |Ask -

Answered on Feb 28, 2020

Mayuresh Question by Mayuresh on Feb 28, 2020Hindi
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Hi which is best investment with moderate risk?

Ans: You may invest in blue-chip companies like Infosys, HDFC Ltd. Colgate, Reliance industries and some of the midcaps like Inox leisure, Havel’s India and Voltas as margin of safety is higher in these stocks.

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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Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 02, 2024Hindi
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I have Rs 3.5 lakh and want to invest this amount for a period of 5 years. I can take low to moderate risk. What options would you suggest for me? I am expecting only moderate returns of up to 15-18% for my investments. What would you suggest for me if I want say higher returns in the range of 20-25%?
Ans: For a 5-year investment horizon with a preference for low to moderate risk, it's important to consider a well-diversified portfolio to balance potential returns and risks.

Here are some investment options based on your risk preferences:

• Low to Moderate Risk (Expecting returns of 15-18%):

1. Equity Mutual Funds:

Opt for large-cap or multi-cap equity mutual funds. These funds provide exposure to well-established companies and offer the potential for moderate returns. Choose funds with a consistent track record and a focus on risk management.

2. Balanced Funds:

Balanced funds, also known as hybrid funds, invest in a mix of equities and debt instruments. They provide a balance between growth and stability, making them suitable for investors with a moderate risk appetite.

3. Debt Mutual Funds:

Consider allocating a portion of your investment to debt mutual funds, particularly short to medium-term funds. These funds invest in fixed-income securities and can provide stable returns with lower volatility compared to equities.

4. Fixed Deposits (FDs):

Bank fixed deposits and corporate FDs offer capital protection and a fixed rate of return. While the returns may be relatively lower, they provide a stable and predictable income stream.

• Higher Risk (Expecting returns of 20-25%):

1. Mid and Small-Cap Equity Funds:

If you are willing to take on a higher level of risk, consider mid and small-cap equity funds. These funds invest in smaller companies with higher growth potential but come with increased volatility.

2. Sector-Specific Funds:

Allocate a small portion of your portfolio to sector-specific funds. These funds focus on specific industries like technology, healthcare, or banking, which may offer higher returns but come with sector-specific risks.

3. Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs):

ULIPs combine insurance with investment and offer the flexibility to invest in equity or debt funds. However, be mindful of the charges associated with ULIPs and thoroughly understand the terms and conditions.

4. Stocks:

Direct equity investment in individual stocks can potentially provide higher returns. However, stock market investments carry higher risk and require a good understanding of the market. Diversify your stock portfolio to manage risk.

5. Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs):

Consider investing in equity mutual funds through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, promoting disciplined investing and taking advantage of rupee cost averaging.

Before making any investment decisions, carefully assess your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Diversification across different asset classes can help manage risk. It's also advisable to consult with a financial advisor to create a personalised investment strategy based on your specific situation and goals.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 25, 2025

Money
I will invest 6k per month please suggest some safe plan
Ans: Thank you for sharing your plan to invest Rs 6,000 every month. You are already one step ahead. Most people do not even think about investing. You are thinking early. And taking action. That is really good.

Now let us look at how to use this Rs 6,000 monthly in a smart and safe way.

Let me give you a full and simple 360-degree plan.

We will talk about:

What does safe investing mean?

Where to invest Rs 6,000 monthly?

How to keep your money protected?

How to grow your money slowly and steadily?

What risks to avoid?

What not to do?

What you can expect in return?

What you should track and how?

Let us begin step by step.





Understanding What "Safe Investment" Means

There is no investment that is 100% risk-free.





Even bank fixed deposits have some risk. Not all banks are safe.





But we can choose options that are more stable and time-tested.





Safe does not mean no return. But safe usually means moderate return.





You will not get very high returns. But you will also avoid big losses.





When you invest regularly, even small growth becomes big in long term.





So safety and patience work together for success.





Setting a Goal for Your Rs 6,000 Per Month

What is your goal for this Rs 6,000? Is it for retirement?





Is it for child’s education? Or for a future home? Or for monthly income later?





Knowing the goal helps you choose the right investment path.





If your goal is more than 5 years away, you can take slightly more risk.





If your goal is less than 3 years away, you must stay very safe.





Please fix your goal first. That is the starting point.





Best Way to Invest Rs 6,000 Monthly – Step-by-Step Plan

Let me now share a safe and step-wise plan.





Emergency Corpus First

Do you already have 6 months of expenses saved?





If not, keep Rs 6,000 in a bank recurring deposit.





Or use a liquid mutual fund with good safety record.





Build an emergency fund of at least Rs 50,000–Rs 1,00,000.





Only after this, start regular mutual fund investing.





Choose a Regular Plan of Mutual Fund

Please do not choose direct plans of mutual funds.





Direct plans may look cheap. But they do not give personal service.





A Certified Financial Planner can help through regular plans.





Direct plans are like driving without a GPS.





Regular plans give better tracking, support and timely advice.





Avoid Index Funds for Safety

Index funds copy the market. They are not managed actively.





In a bad market, they fall badly. No one protects you.





In actively managed funds, the fund manager reduces risk.





You need active management when you want safety.





So always choose actively managed mutual funds.





Choose Funds Based on Goal Period

If your goal is within 3 years, choose short-duration debt mutual funds.





If your goal is 5–7 years away, use hybrid funds or conservative balanced funds.





If your goal is 7+ years away, use equity mutual funds in small amount.





Your Rs 6,000 can be split as per time.







Suggested Asset Allocation for Rs 6,000 Monthly (General Model)

Assuming long-term goal (5+ years), you can follow:





Rs 3,000 – Conservative Hybrid Mutual Fund





Rs 2,000 – Equity Mutual Fund (Large and Mid-Cap)





Rs 1,000 – Liquid Fund or Short-Term Debt Fund





This mix gives safety, moderate growth, and steady liquidity.





How to Monitor Your Investment

Check once every 6 months. Do not check every week.





Look at performance compared to a fixed deposit.





Your funds should beat FD by 2% or more.





If any fund gives low return for 3 years, change it.





Take help from a Certified Financial Planner.





Use only regular plans through a good MFD and CFP.





Mutual Fund Tax Rules You Must Know

Equity mutual fund returns held for over 1 year are called long term.





Gains above Rs 1.25 lakh yearly are taxed at 12.5%.





Gains below Rs 1.25 lakh yearly are tax-free.





Debt mutual fund returns are taxed as per your income tax slab.





You can use tax-saving mutual funds if needed.





What You Should Not Do

Do not keep all Rs 6,000 in a bank FD. Inflation will eat your returns.





Do not go for chit funds or ponzi schemes. They look safe but are risky.





Do not buy any investment product from insurance agents.





Do not fall for ULIPs or investment cum insurance plans.





Do not stop SIP when market goes down. That is when you get more benefit.





Do not chase the highest return funds. Focus on stable and consistent ones.





Why Safety Does Not Mean Zero Equity

Some equity exposure is good even if you want safety.





Without equity, your money will not beat inflation.





But choose only large and mid-cap equity funds.





And keep percentage low, like 25%-35% of Rs 6,000.





Rebalance every year. Keep your original ratio same.





If You Already Have Insurance or ULIP

If you hold LIC endowment, money-back or ULIP policies, stop future premiums.





Surrender them if lock-in is over and you will get fair value.





Reinvest the maturity or surrender amount in mutual funds.





Keep insurance and investment separate always.





How a CFP Can Help You

A Certified Financial Planner is trained to guide you step by step.





They will not just sell. They plan your whole money journey.





They help in fund selection, monitoring, withdrawal planning, and rebalancing.





They also help in taxes and documentation.





You will not be alone in the process.





What Can You Expect from Rs 6,000 Monthly?

You can create Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh in 10 to 15 years.





This depends on fund selection and market movement.





But this is possible with patience and discipline.





Start now and stay regular. Do not skip SIP.





What to Do if Goal Changes Midway?

Suppose you need money early. You can stop SIP.





You can start SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) after 3 years.





You can move money to safer funds when you reach the goal.





A CFP can guide how to change funds without big tax impact.





Safe Exit Plan Later

Do not withdraw full amount at once.





Start a SWP after your goal period.





You can take Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 monthly from corpus.





This gives income and keeps capital partly invested.





It is better than FD interest.





Finally

Investing Rs 6,000 per month can create big wealth.





Do it in regular mutual funds with active management.





Keep goal clear. Start small. Stay patient.





Do not chase hot tips or risky schemes.





Choose safety first. Add growth slowly.





Review every year with a Certified Financial Planner.





Always keep emergency fund separate.





If you follow this path, your future will be safer and stronger.





Money grows slowly but surely with regular SIP.





Take the first step today. Your future self will thank you.





Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..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
Money
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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