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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9252 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Dec 24, 2023Hindi
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Is it not wise to withdraw some units of mutual funds invested more than 1year ago, in this high market ( profit amounting not more than 1 lakh) And simultaneously continue investing as before?

Ans: It's natural to feel tempted to capitalize on profits in a booming market. However, timing the market is challenging and comes with risks. Instead, consider your long-term investment goals and stay focused on your financial plan. Selling some units for short-term gains may disrupt your overall investment strategy and hinder your portfolio's growth potential. Remember, investing is a journey, and it's essential to maintain discipline and stick to your investment plan, regardless of short-term market fluctuations. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable insights and guidance on navigating market volatility while staying committed to your long-term financial objectives.
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 Sep 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 23, 2024Hindi
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I am Sneha from Chennai. I’m 50 years old with two sons, aged 22 and 18. My husband and I have invested Rs 50,000 a month in mutual funds for the past 10 years. We’re planning for our younger son’s higher education and our retirement in 5 years. Should we start withdrawing or continue investing?
Ans: Congratulations on your disciplined investing for the past 10 years! Your foresight in starting early will pay off handsomely. Given your goals of funding your younger son’s higher education and your retirement within 5 years, it’s crucial to strike a balance between withdrawing and continuing to invest.

Here’s a breakdown of your situation:

Assets:

Mutual fund investments: Assuming an average annual return of 10 per cent (adjust based on your actual returns), your current corpus might be around Rs 1.2 crore.

Goals:

• Younger son’s higher education: Estimate the costs (fees, living expenses) and factor in inflation.
• Retirement: Determine your desired monthly income and lifestyle. Consider expenses like healthcare, travel, hobbies, etc.

Recommendation:

• Create a Detailed Financial Plan: Consult a financial advisor to assess your exact goals, risk tolerance, and expected expenses. This will help you create a personalized plan.
• Diversify Your Investments: While your mutual fund investments have served you well, consider diversifying into other asset classes like real estate or fixed-income products to manage risk.
• Start a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): This allows you to withdraw a fixed amount from your mutual fund investments at regular intervals, providing a steady income stream.
• Maintain Emergency Fund: Ensure you have a readily accessible emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses and avoid withdrawing from your long-term investments.
• Review and Adjust Regularly: As your circumstances and market conditions change, review your financial plan and make adjustments as needed.

Remember, seeking professional advice can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your financial future.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance and does not constitute financial advice. It’s essential to consult with a qualified financial advisor to address your specific needs and circumstances.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9252 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 18, 2025

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I am investiing in below mutual funds, Axis small cap fund regular growth - 1k Franklin Build india fund regular growth -4k Hdfc small cap fund regular growth - 4k icici blue chip fund regular growth - 2k Icici value discovery fund regular growth - 4k Nippon India small cap fund regular growth - 4k Mirae assest large cap fund regular growth - 2k sbi bluehip fund regular growth - 1k sbi small cap fund regular growth - 3k please advice shall I continue in the current market situation or withdraw? Regards Radhakrishna
Ans: Your commitment to investing is commendable. Let's evaluate your current mutual fund portfolio and provide guidance tailored to the current market conditions.

Current Market Overview

As of February 2025, the Indian equity market has experienced notable volatility. Benchmark indices like the Nifty 50 and S&P BSE Sensex have declined by approximately 10-11% from their peaks in September 2024. Mid-cap and small-cap segments have faced even sharper corrections, with the BSE Small Cap Index and BSE Mid Cap Index falling by 18.3% and 17.9%, respectively.
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Analysis of Your Portfolio Composition

Your portfolio includes investments in various mutual funds across different categories. Here's a breakdown:

Small-Cap Funds: A significant portion of your investments is allocated to small-cap funds. While these funds offer high growth potential, they also come with increased volatility, especially during market downturns.

Large-Cap Funds: You have exposure to large-cap funds, which are generally more stable and resilient during market fluctuations.

Thematic and Sectoral Funds: Your investment in thematic funds focuses on specific sectors, which can be cyclical and may experience periods of underperformance.

Recommendations

Review and Rebalance Your Portfolio

Assess Overlap: Evaluate the degree of overlap between your funds to ensure diversification. Tools like the mutual fund portfolio overlap tool can help identify common holdings.
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Adjust Allocations: Consider reducing exposure to small-cap funds if they constitute a large portion of your portfolio. Reallocating to large-cap or diversified equity funds can provide more stability.

Stay Invested with a Long-Term Perspective

Market Corrections Are Normal: Short-term volatility is inherent in equity markets. Historically, markets have rebounded over time, rewarding patient investors.

Avoid Panic Selling: Withdrawing investments during downturns can lock in losses. Maintaining your investments allows you to benefit from potential market recoveries.

Continue Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)

Rupee Cost Averaging: Continuing SIPs during market lows allows you to purchase more units at lower prices, potentially enhancing long-term returns.

Discipline Over Timing: Regular investments mitigate the need to time the market, fostering a disciplined approach.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner

Personalized Advice: A Certified Financial Planner can provide guidance tailored to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

Tax Efficiency: Professional advice can help optimize your portfolio for tax efficiency, especially with recent changes in capital gains taxation.

Final Insights

In the current market scenario, it's advisable to stay invested and avoid making hasty decisions based on short-term volatility. Rebalancing your portfolio to align with your risk tolerance and financial goals, while continuing with disciplined investment strategies like SIPs, can position you well for long-term wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Prof Suvasish

Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |1825 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9252 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 27, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello, I am a 52-year-old man. I have never been married and I live with my mother. I recently lost my job and I am currently not working. I often feel lonely and do not have much to do. As I grow older and weaker, I worry that no one will be there to care for me. Do you have any advice for living alone and planning for the future? Should I think about booking a place in a care home in advance?
Ans: You Have Taken a Very Important First Step

You have shared your situation honestly.
That itself shows your clarity and courage.
Many people avoid facing these life questions.
But you are thinking about your future early.

That is not weakness. That is strength.
You want to plan better, live with dignity, and stay independent.

Let us now explore how you can move forward.

Emotional Health Is as Important as Financial Health

Feeling lonely is not a personal failure.
This happens to many people, especially in later stages.

But loneliness can affect your health, confidence and energy.
So emotional well-being must also be planned.

Here are some steps to take for emotional stability:

Join community-based senior citizen clubs or men’s support groups.

Volunteer in social or religious organisations nearby.

Spend more time in parks or public libraries.

Attend free local workshops, health camps, or senior hobby circles.

Join digital groups where people share similar life stories.

You can also try to reconnect with old friends or classmates.
If possible, talk to a professional therapist.
You may get clarity and courage to move forward with strength.

Mental peace is your foundation.
Every other area will build better if your mind is clear.

Income Loss Needs Calm Planning, Not Panic

Job loss can feel heavy.
It creates fear about future income and expenses.
But worry will not help. Proper planning will.

Let’s assess your situation with these key questions:

Do you have any emergency savings?

Do you have PF, gratuity, or old investments?

Is your mother financially dependent on you fully?

Are you receiving any rental or pension income?

Do you have any LIC or traditional policies?

If you hold LIC or ULIP or investment-insurance policies,
Those should be reviewed immediately.
Surrendering those and reinvesting in mutual funds may be wise.

A Certified Financial Planner can help analyse that for you.
You need a structure that gives monthly income and liquidity.

Don’t delay this review. You need clarity to act.

Your Mother’s Care Also Needs to Be Protected

You are staying with your mother.
She must be elderly now.
Her health and care will also need some preparation.

Here are some points to check:

Does she have health insurance now?

If not, you must protect her with basic medical fund.

Keep Rs. 1 lakh separately only for her emergencies.

If she is eligible for government schemes, do enrol her.

Also, try to simplify her banking and mobile usage.
Digital tools can help you track and manage her needs.

If possible, keep one trusted neighbour or cousin informed.
That one person can be a backup support if needed.

Don’t carry the whole burden silently.
Even a small circle can be helpful.

Start Thinking of Your Own Medical and Long-Term Needs

Age 52 is the right age to start preparing for old age.
You are not too late. But don’t wait more.

Think about your personal health and mobility:

Do you have any current medical issues?

Are you insured with a good health policy now?

Is your health insurance individual or employer-provided earlier?

If you had employer cover, that will now be inactive.
You need your own health policy as early as possible.

Start with a basic policy, then increase later.
Premiums rise with age. So earlier is better.

Also, start creating a medical emergency fund of Rs. 3 to 5 lakhs.
Keep this in a liquid mutual fund or sweep-in FD.

Health events can come anytime.
With insurance + fund, you are protected.

Thinking About Senior Care Homes and Assisted Living

Your concern about future care is valid.
Being alone during old age can be hard.

Booking a care home now is not necessary.
But understanding options early is smart.

Here’s how to approach it:

Visit senior homes in your city or nearby areas.

Understand their admission process, fees, services and reviews.

Make a short list of 2–3 places that feel reliable.

Keep a folder ready with documents and preferences.

Do not pre-book unless needed.
But do keep your research ready and saved.

Also keep your close relatives or executor informed about your wishes.
Keep a Will and a Letter of Instruction ready for the future.

That gives you peace of mind.
Your future care will be on your terms.

Investing for Monthly Income and Stability

Without a job, you need a reliable source of income.
This can come from mutual fund income plans.

These funds are actively managed and adjust based on market cycles.
They work better than bank FDs or index funds.

Index funds just follow the market blindly.
They don’t protect during down periods.

Actively managed mutual funds, under CFP guidance,
Give better returns with risk protection.

Also, avoid direct mutual fund plans.
Direct plans may seem low-cost.
But you lose expert guidance and timely reviews.

Investing through Certified Financial Planner under regular plan
Gives you goal-based strategies, rebalancing and personal support.

At this stage, regular plan is safer and more useful.
Peace of mind is more important than tiny cost savings.

Start a plan that provides a monthly payout from your capital.
You can choose SWP (systematic withdrawal plan) through mutual funds.
This provides income while your money keeps growing.

Your financial plan must be 360-degree:

Health planning

Emergency buffer

Monthly income

Retirement fund

Estate planning

Don’t look for just one solution.
A full system will keep you secure.

Other Important Steps to Take Now

Create a file of important documents: Aadhaar, PAN, passbook, insurance, medical reports.

Make a nomination for all accounts and investments.

Write a basic Will even if assets are small.

Avoid loans or liabilities unless for emergency.

Cut unnecessary expenses until income stabilises.

If possible, try part-time, freelance or online projects.

You can also teach tuitions, do typing work, or sell skills online.
Any small income brings energy and confidence.
Keep trying different options till something works.

Finally

Your future is still in your hands.
Age 52 is not the end. It is a beginning of the next phase.

You have taken the first step with courage.
Now move ahead step-by-step with planning.

Keep your mind strong, your routine simple and your support circle active.
Financial discipline, medical readiness and emotional peace – these three must be your focus.

Care homes are one part of planning. Not the only part.
Start building your self-care system today.

And get expert help through a Certified Financial Planner.
That will make your journey smoother, structured and peaceful.

You deserve a safe, strong and independent future.
That is 100% possible with proper planning.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Patrick

Patrick Dsouza  |1193 Answers  |Ask -

CAT, XAT, CMAT, CET Expert - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

Career
Hi sir, My daughter is a pcbc student in class 12 passed out in 2024 and took a drop for neet. She scored 431 in 2024 neet and 322 in 2025. With these failed attempts, she is now not willing to take another drop and now exploring other options. She is also not willing to take any kind of medical related courses including bds, bams, pharmacy or allied health science courses. She somewhat inclined towards cs/it/ai/ds streams and applied for various b tech/bscmsc courses in various universities. She is now getting offers in following 1. Integrated M tech in Ai and Bioinformatics in vit bhopal (cat 1 with annual fee 1.2 lakhs + hostel) 2. B tech in Health science and technology in vit vellore (cat 5 with annual fee 4 lakhs + hostel) 3. Integrated Bsc+ Msc in Computational statistics and data analytics in vit vellore (Annual fee 75k + hostel) 4. B tech in biotechnology in Amity University Bangalore (Semister fee 1.75 lakhs + transportion as day scholar) 5. B sc in bioinformatics in Reva university bangalore (annual fee 1.2 lakhs+Transportation as day scholar) 6. Bca with and without specializations in various Bangalore colleges with annual fee ranging from 1 to 2.5 lakhs with transportation as day scholar. Now we are completely confused what to take. She got 95% in bio 84% in chemistry 77% in CS(python) 68% in physics and no mathematics in class 12.
Ans: I would not recommend integrated courses as we do not know what her interest will be after her graduation. She would have to put in the extra years and it may not value add to her if she decides to change the line. Doing graduation would depend on her interest. Check the placements in the colleges you are applying to and talk to the students of those colleges before finalizing.

...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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