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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
D Question by D on Apr 23, 2024Hindi
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Which is the best MF now for Tax Gain Saving by Sr. Citizen

Ans: For senior citizens looking to invest in tax-saving mutual funds (Equity Linked Savings Schemes or ELSS), several factors need consideration, including risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals. Since ELSS funds come with a lock-in period of three years and invest primarily in equity, it's essential to choose funds that align with your preferences and objectives.
Here are a few considerations and recommendations for senior citizens investing in ELSS:
1. Risk Tolerance: Evaluate your risk tolerance, as ELSS funds are equity-oriented and subject to market volatility. If you have a lower risk tolerance, consider balanced funds or debt-oriented funds with tax-saving benefits.
2. Investment Horizon: Determine your investment horizon and assess whether you can stay invested for the ELSS lock-in period of three years or longer.
3. Past Performance: Review the historical performance of ELSS funds, focusing on consistency and long-term returns. Look for funds with a track record of delivering competitive returns over various market cycles.
4. Fund Manager Expertise: Assess the expertise and track record of the fund manager managing the ELSS fund. A skilled and experienced fund manager can add value through strategic investment decisions.
5. Expense Ratio: Consider the expense ratio of the ELSS funds, as lower expenses can enhance your overall returns over time.
It's essential to conduct thorough research, consult with a financial advisor, and carefully evaluate your investment options before making any investment decisions. Additionally, consider your overall financial plan, including asset allocation, diversification, and risk management, to achieve your long-term financial goals.
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  |9255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2023Hindi
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Dear Sir, I am 40 year old and I have following MFs. My goal are 50L for child marraige ( after next 10 years) and retirment fund 1 cr and monthly pension of 50k per month post retirement. I invest 2000 per month in each. Pls suggest Aditya Birla Sun Life Mfg Equity Fund - Aditya Birla Sun Life Tax Relief 96 - Reg - G Axis Bluechip fund Canara Robeco Emerging Eqities Canara Robeco Equity Tax Saver HDFC Gold Trader Fund Growth - Direct HDFC Tax saver ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Growth 360 One Focused Equity Fund - Growth Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund - Growth Mirae Asset Tax Saver Fund G Motilal Oswal NASDAQ 100 ETF Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund Quant Tax Plan
Ans: Understanding Your Goals

You have two primary financial goals. First, Rs 50 lakhs for your child's marriage in the next 10 years. Second, Rs 1 crore for retirement along with a monthly pension of Rs 50,000 post-retirement.

Both these goals require careful planning and disciplined investing.

Assessing Your Current Portfolio

Your current investments are diversified across various equity mutual funds. This diversification is a good strategy for risk management.

You invest Rs 2000 per month in each fund. This consistent investment is a commendable approach.

Equity Mutual Funds

Equity mutual funds are great for long-term wealth creation. They have the potential for high returns, which is essential for meeting your financial goals.

However, actively managed funds can outperform index funds in certain market conditions. This is due to professional fund management, which can adapt to market changes.

Tax-Saving Funds

You have invested in tax-saving funds, which is beneficial for tax deductions under Section 80C. These funds also invest in equities and can offer good returns.

However, consider the lock-in period of three years. Ensure these investments align with your liquidity needs.

Sectoral Funds

Your portfolio includes sectoral funds, which focus on specific sectors like technology. These funds can deliver high returns but come with higher risks.

Diversify across sectors to manage risk effectively. Avoid over-concentration in any one sector.

Gold Funds

You have invested in gold funds, which add stability to your portfolio. Gold acts as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties.

However, gold should be a smaller portion of your portfolio as it does not provide regular income.

International Funds

International funds give exposure to global markets, which can offer diversification benefits. These funds can help mitigate risks related to domestic market downturns.

However, be mindful of currency risk and geopolitical factors that can impact returns.

Direct vs. Regular Funds

You have chosen some direct funds. Direct funds have lower expense ratios, leading to slightly higher returns.

However, regular funds offer the benefit of advice from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). This guidance can be crucial for making informed decisions.

Rebalancing and Monitoring

Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to stay aligned with your goals. Market conditions and personal financial situations change, requiring adjustments in your investments.

Consider consulting a CFP for professional advice on rebalancing.

Conclusion

Your current investments reflect a thoughtful approach towards achieving your financial goals. Continue with disciplined investing and regular reviews.

Ensure diversification across different types of funds to balance risk and returns. Seek professional advice when needed to stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9255 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 04, 2024Hindi
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Age: 44years. Please suggest a MF which works best for retirement, child's education and long term capital appreciation. I could invest lumpsum Rs 100000/
Ans: Planning for Your Future: Retirement, Education & Growth
At 44, you're making a smart move by planning for your future goals: retirement, child's education, and long-term wealth creation. A single mutual fund might not be the best fit for all these needs, but let's explore some options:

Diversification is Key

Since your goals have different time horizons (retirement is farther away than your child's education), it's wise to diversify your investments. This means spreading your money across different asset classes to manage risk.

Actively Managed Funds for Growth

Given your long-term perspective and willingness to take on some risk, actively managed funds can be a good option. Here's why:

Outperforming the Market: Actively managed funds have fund managers who try to pick promising stocks and beat the market average. This has the potential for higher returns compared to passively managed options like index funds.
Matching Risk to Goals

Here's a possible approach to consider, but remember, this is general advice:

Retirement (Long Term): Invest a larger portion (say 60-70%) in aggressive actively managed funds like multi-cap funds. These invest in a mix of large, mid, and small-cap companies, offering growth potential along with diversification.

Child's Education (Mid Term): Allocate a mid-range portion (say 20-30%) to a balanced actively managed fund. These funds balance between equity and debt, offering some growth potential with a lower risk profile compared to aggressive funds.

Remember, your situation is unique. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you create a personalized asset allocation plan based on your risk tolerance and specific goals.

Rs. 1 Lakh Lump Sum Investment

A lump sum investment of Rs. 1 lakh can be a great way to jumpstart your investment journey. Consider investing across different actively managed funds based on your asset allocation plan.

Regular Investment (SIP) is Powerful

Don't stop with the lump sum! Regular investments (SIPs) can be a powerful tool for long-term wealth creation. Even a small amount invested regularly can benefit from rupee-cost averaging, where you purchase more units when the price is low and fewer units when the price is high.

A CFP Can Help You:

Choose the Right Funds: They can recommend actively managed funds with a good track record and experienced fund managers.

Asset Allocation: They can advise on the right mix of asset classes (multi-cap, balanced, etc.) for your goals.

Review and Rebalance: A CFP will monitor your progress and adjust your asset allocation as needed to stay on track.

Taking Charge of Your Tomorrow

By planning and investing for your future, you're taking control of your tomorrow. Actively managed funds within a diversified portfolio can be a powerful tool for growth, but remember, they also carry risk. A CFP can help you navigate your options and make informed investment decisions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7150 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 26, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir, for MTech in Data Science, which one is better AIT Pune or MNIT Allahabad? as myself is related to defence.
Ans: MNIT Allahabad (MNNIT) offers an MTech in Data Science (AI & Data Science) with a national reputation, strong industry-aligned curriculum, and robust placement outcomes—an average package of ?12–13 LPA and median of ?8–11 LPA for MTech, with top recruiters like Amazon, TCS, and Infosys, and a placement percentage of 48–58% for the course. The program is GATE-based, has 25 seats, and is supported by a large alumni network and national NIT brand value. AIT Pune’s M.E. in Data Science is NAAC-accredited, offers a 2-year full-time program exclusively for wards of Army personnel, and reports a 70–94% placement rate with an average package of ?4.7–11 LPA, attracting recruiters like Microsoft, Google, and Credit Suisse. AIT Pune is highly regarded in the defence community, offers a supportive environment for defence families, and provides good exposure to industry projects and internships, but its national ranking is lower (#201–300 NIRF 2024) compared to MNNIT. Both programs have modern infrastructure and industry exposure, but MNNIT’s broader brand recognition and higher placement outcomes give it an edge for general candidates, while AIT Pune’s defence orientation and exclusive eligibility make it ideal for defence-related career aspirations.

recommendation: If you are seeking a defence-friendly environment and are eligible as a ward of Army personnel, AIT Pune offers strong support and placement for defence families. For broader national recognition, stronger industry placement, and higher average outcomes in Data Science, MNIT Allahabad is the preferred choice. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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