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T S Khurana

T S Khurana   |568 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Dec 03, 2025

A certified management accountant since 1993, T S Khurana is a fellow member of The Institute of Cost Accountants of India. His areas of expertise are income tax, specifically litigation cases, and GST.

Since the last 21 years, he has also been providing expert advice on financial matters, including investments and diversification of funds, and wealth building in the long term to his clients.
He believes that investment in real estate is the safest way for better returns and wealth generation over a period of time.

A former chairman of the Chandigarh Chapter of Institute of Cost Accountants of India, T S Khurana has also served as member of its technical committee.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Nov 05, 2025Hindi
Money

If I wish to exit out of DSP midcap and shift to Motilal Oswal midcap fund (due to better performance), how can I do it? Even if I do it immediately - I would need to pay LTCG? The fund is more than 3 years old, and is around 5 lakh rupees. I am getting 20% returns, but market conditions show that Motilal is giving approx. 35%. Is it ok to do this given the tax considerations?

Ans: I feel 20% is a fairly good return. Kindly watch performance of both these companies for another year & then decide.
Most welcome for any further clarification on the subject. Thanks.
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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Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Mar 28, 2024

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Dear sir, I am having MF portfolio around 12.5 lakhs invested through SIP and lumpsum both ways. MF holdings are:- Mirae large & mid cap-3.2 lakh Mirae mid cap-3.4 lakh Parag parikh flexi-3.0 lakh Parag parikh elss-75 k Kotak emerging equity -1.0 lkh Nippon small-65 k Motilal midcap- 4k (just started) Tat small cap 3k (SIP recently started) I recently switched from axis mid cap to kotak Emerging. I am confused about mid cap funds which one should I keep whether motilal or kotak emerging. Kindly suggest Whether my portfolio is well diversified or any changes required. I want to exit one mid cap or keep all 3 in portfolio considering overlap.
Ans: Your portfolio is well diversified across various categories and designed for long-term horizon.

Currently, you have three mid-cap funds in your portfolio i.e. Mirae Asset Mid Cap Fund, Kotak Emerging Equity Fund, and Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund.

Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund is currently investing only in 30 stocks which makes it focused in nature. The market surge has helped the fund achieve strong returns over the last year, but these returns have not been steady and have not had a particularly strong track record. Thus, we advise you to discontinue making investments in this fund.

You have investments in two Mirae AMC funds in your portfolio. We advise you to diversify your investments among different AMCs to lower the risk of concentration and to take advantage of the various investing strategies that AMCs follow.

We suggest you to continue to invest in Kotak Emerging Equity Fund since the fund has a good track record, past performance and it is well diversified as compared to its peers.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11336 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 09, 2024

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Sir, I have both Mirae asset Large and Mid cap fund with sip + Mirae asset Large cap fund (sip stopped) Can I make STP or complete SWITCH from Mirae asset large cap fund to Mirae asset large and Mid cap fund. ? is it advisable
Ans: Switching or making a Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) from Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund to Mirae Asset Large and Mid Cap Fund can be considered based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment strategy.

Factors to Consider:
1. Portfolio Diversification:
Large Cap Fund: Primarily invests in the top 100 companies, which are considered stable and less volatile. It is ideal for those seeking steady returns with relatively lower risk.
Large and Mid Cap Fund: Combines both large-cap (safer, stable) and mid-cap (higher growth potential but riskier) stocks. This offers a balanced approach, with more room for growth but with a bit more risk.
If your goal is to increase exposure to mid-cap stocks for potentially higher growth, an STP or switch to the Large and Mid Cap Fund makes sense. This fund offers a more diversified approach while still having a safety net of large-cap investments.

2. Investment Time Horizon:
Large and mid-cap funds tend to perform better in the long term (5+ years), as mid-caps may take time to realize their full growth potential. If your investment horizon is shorter, sticking with a large-cap fund may be preferable.
3. Risk Appetite:
Mid-cap stocks have higher growth potential but come with increased volatility. If you are comfortable with short-term fluctuations for long-term gains, an STP into the large and mid-cap fund could align with your goals.
4. Performance Track Record:
Both funds from Mirae Asset have strong reputations, but large-cap funds offer more consistent returns with lower downside risks during market corrections. You may want to assess the historical performance and volatility of both funds to see which fits your strategy better.
Why Use STP Instead of a Lump Sum Switch?
Tax Efficiency: An STP allows you to move funds gradually, spreading out tax implications and avoiding a large one-time exit load or capital gains tax.
Risk Mitigation: Instead of moving all your funds at once, an STP reduces the risk of entering at a high point in the market.
Consistent Investment: You continue investing in a disciplined manner, benefiting from rupee cost averaging.
Final Insight:
If your risk profile supports it, and your goal is long-term wealth creation, a STP from Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund to Mirae Asset Large and Mid Cap Fund can be a good option. This allows you to diversify your portfolio while retaining some stability through large-cap exposure.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11336 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 08, 2025Hindi
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Money
Is it good to continue SIP 15000 rupees of Single Motilal Oswal Midcap Direct Growth Fund or Can i diversify to another multiple mutul fund
Ans: Investing Rs. 15,000 in a single mid-cap fund reflects a focused approach. Mid-cap funds provide a balance between growth and stability. However, this approach comes with certain risks and opportunities.

Mid-cap funds generally perform well over a long horizon. However, they are prone to higher volatility compared to large-cap funds. Your investment strategy must align with your financial goals, risk appetite, and investment horizon.

Importance of Diversification
Investing in a single fund increases concentration risk. Poor fund performance can impact your overall portfolio.

Diversification across multiple funds helps reduce risk and capture varied market opportunities.

Exposure to different categories like large-cap, flexi-cap, or hybrid funds ensures portfolio balance.

Suggested Categories for Diversification
Large-cap funds: They provide stability and relatively lower risk.

Flexi-cap funds: They offer flexibility by investing across market capitalisation.

Hybrid funds: These funds combine equity and debt for moderate returns with lower risk.

Small-cap funds: These can complement your mid-cap exposure but carry higher risk.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds outperform in fluctuating markets.

They adapt to market conditions, unlike index funds which replicate benchmarks.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helps in selecting funds with consistent performance.

Concerns with Direct Fund Plans
Direct plans save cost but require time for regular review and adjustments.

Professional guidance via a CFP ensures well-informed decisions.

Taxation Impact on Equity Funds
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

Consider these tax implications while making redemption decisions.

Recommended Portfolio Strategy
Limit exposure to a single mid-cap fund. Spread risk by adding complementary funds.

Reallocate a portion of your SIP to large-cap or flexi-cap funds for stability.

Monitor fund performance annually and adjust as per your goals and market conditions.

Avoid frequent fund changes. Long-term investments yield better compounding benefits.

Final Insights
Your investment discipline is admirable. Expanding your portfolio with diversified funds will reduce risk and enhance returns. Seek professional guidance for structured and goal-oriented investments. Stay invested and patient to achieve financial growth.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11336 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 31, 2026

Money
I am Snehansu Ranjan Roy. I am holding one Motilal oswal midcap mutual fund for more than One year now. Initially it was going well in 2024-25. By by end of 2025 the fund was loosing steam and now has lost almost 15% from its peak. Now I understand that due to low return in IT stocks in their port folio the fund is underperforming. I would like your advice as to hold on for some more time now or switch gradually from this fund to some Multi asset fund which are giving better returns in todays market, since I was thing of starting SwP from the fund since it is more than one year now. Thanking you, Snehansu Ranjan Roy.
Ans: You have taken a very thoughtful step by reviewing your mutual fund performance after one year and also thinking about starting SWP. This shows good financial awareness and discipline. Many investors react emotionally during mid-cap corrections, but you are analysing calmly. That is a strong positive sign.

Now let us evaluate your situation properly before deciding whether to hold or switch.

» Understanding why your midcap fund is correcting

– Midcap funds normally move faster up and also faster down compared to large cap funds
– A 15% fall from peak is not unusual in midcap category
– Underperformance due to sector exposure like IT is usually temporary, not permanent
– Fund performance should be judged across one full market cycle (minimum 3–5 years)

So one year is too short a time to judge a midcap strategy.

Many midcap funds corrected during late 2025 because valuations became high earlier. This correction is part of the cycle.

» Whether starting SWP from a midcap fund is suitable now

This is a very important point.

SWP works best when:

– fund volatility is low
– returns are stable
– downside risk is limited

Midcap funds do not match these conditions.

If SWP starts from a volatile fund:

– units get redeemed during market fall
– long-term growth reduces
– capital erosion risk increases

So starting SWP from a midcap fund is generally not ideal.

» Whether shifting gradually to a multi asset fund makes sense

Your thinking here is practical and mature.

Multi asset funds invest across:

– equity
– debt
– gold and sometimes other assets

Because of this:

– volatility reduces
– downside risk becomes lower
– SWP sustainability improves
– emotional comfort increases

This category is suitable especially when investor wants income stability along with moderate growth.

So your idea of gradual switching is sensible.

» How to switch in a safer way

Instead of switching full amount immediately:

– shift gradually in 4 to 6 stages
– spread switching across few months
– continue holding some portion in midcap for growth
– move SWP portion into multi asset category

This keeps balance between growth and stability.

» Tax impact before switching

Since your holding period crossed one year:

– gains become long term capital gains
– tax applies only if gains exceed Rs 1.25 lakh in a financial year
– LTCG tax rate is 12.5% beyond exemption limit

So gradual switching helps manage tax efficiently.

» A balanced strategy suitable for your stage

Considering your approach and your earlier planning style shared in previous discussions:

– keep midcap allocation for long-term growth
– move SWP portion into multi asset category
– maintain some exposure to flexi-cap category for stability plus growth
– avoid withdrawing aggressively during market correction phase

This creates both income comfort and capital protection.

» When you should continue holding the midcap fund

Continue holding if:

– investment horizon is more than 3 years
– fund management quality remains consistent
– correction is sector-specific not structural
– portfolio still aligned with your risk level

Selling only because of short-term underperformance is usually not beneficial.

» Finally

Your thinking about risk reduction before starting SWP is correct and timely. Instead of exiting the midcap fund completely, a partial and gradual shift towards a multi asset category is a more balanced and practical solution. This helps you protect capital, support SWP stability, and still keep long-term growth opportunity alive.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramalingamcfp/

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11336 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 17, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 17, 2026
Money
Hi, I am presently earning a net salary of 85000 after my all deductions( HL EMI of 40000 and other statutory deductions like PF/NPA etc). My age is 40 years any my dependents are my wife and 2 children of 9 and 3 years. My monthly SIP contribution is 29000 spread across Large, Small, Flexi funds any I try to increase it by 5- 10% every year for the last 8 years. My present MF portfolio is of of 60 lacs with XIRR of 15%. My NPS balance as on date is 43 lacs and PF balance is 20 lacs. Monthly NPS is at 23000( including mine and employer contribution) and monthly PF 20000 ( mine and employer). I also have shares of approx 5 lacs and liquid funds of 10 lacs in FD for emergency. I have term plan of 1.50 crores. I will continue with my SIP for next 20 years till my retirement. I want to have a corpus of 30 lacs each for my both child for their higher education when they attain 18 years. I also want to have my retirement corpus of about 3 crs by 2046 so that my post retirement expenses are taken care by SWP. We have health policy for the family for 20 lacs. Will I be able to achieve my desired financial goals with my present investments. Or any rebalancing is required.
Ans: » Your Overall Financial Position

– You have built a strong financial foundation.

– Eight years of disciplined SIP investing is a major strength.

– Regular SIP increases every year have worked well for you.

– Your retirement assets are growing from multiple sources.

– You have a good emergency fund.

– Health insurance and term insurance are already in place.

– Overall, your financial journey appears well-structured.

» Assessment Of Children's Education Goal

– Your elder child is 9 years old.

– The higher education goal is roughly 9 years away.

– Your younger child has a longer investment horizon.

– A target of Rs.30 lakh per child may look sufficient today.

– However, education inflation is usually much higher than normal inflation.

– By the time your children reach college age, actual costs may be significantly higher.

– I would suggest reviewing this target every 2-3 years.

– If income permits, gradually increase allocations towards this goal.

– The longer horizon for your younger child works in your favour.

» Assessment Of Retirement Goal

– Your current retirement assets include mutual funds, NPS, PF and equity investments.

– The biggest positive is that contributions are continuing every month.

– You also intend to continue SIPs for another 20 years.

– Based on your current savings discipline, the retirement goal appears achievable.

– However, a retirement corpus target of Rs.3 crore by 2046 may be on the lower side.

– Inflation over the next two decades will significantly reduce purchasing power.

– Your actual requirement may be much higher.

– I would encourage you to periodically reassess the retirement target.

– It is better to build a larger retirement corpus than discover a shortfall later.

» Review Of Asset Allocation

– Your portfolio already has exposure across different equity categories.

– NPS provides additional diversification.

– PF acts as a stable debt component.

– Emergency reserves are adequate.

– There is no immediate need for major restructuring.

– Avoid frequent portfolio changes based on short-term market movements.

– Consistency is more important than chasing the latest performing category.

» Emergency Fund Review

– Maintaining around Rs.10 lakh in emergency reserves is a sensible decision.

– With home loan responsibilities and two dependent children, liquidity is important.

– Continue keeping emergency money separate from long-term investments.

» Insurance Review

– Family health cover of Rs.20 lakh is good.

– Review whether a super top-up can further strengthen protection at a reasonable cost.

– Your term insurance cover of Rs.1.50 crore is useful.

– However, with two young children and a home loan, it may be worthwhile to review whether the cover remains adequate based on current liabilities and future goals.

» Home Loan Consideration

– Continue paying the home loan as scheduled.

– Avoid diverting long-term retirement assets towards prepayment.

– If future bonuses or surplus cash become available, you can evaluate partial prepayments.

– Balance loan reduction with wealth creation.

» Areas To Focus On

– Continue annual SIP increases.

– Increase investments whenever salary increases.

– Review education goals every few years.

– Reassess retirement corpus targets periodically.

– Maintain adequate insurance protection.

– Stay invested through market cycles.

» Finally

– You are doing many things right already.

– Your disciplined SIP history, NPS contributions, PF accumulation and emergency planning place you in a strong position.

– The main area needing attention is not portfolio rebalancing.

– It is ensuring that your education and retirement targets keep pace with future inflation.

– Continue your current investment discipline.

– With regular investment increases and periodic reviews, you are well-positioned to achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

AMFI-Registered MFD – ARN 4188

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramalingamcfp/

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |12397 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 16, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 16, 2026
Career
Good Afternoon Sir, I need your guidance regarding my admission situation. I scored 77 percentile in JEE Main and 95 percentile in MHT CET. Unfortunately, I got a compartment in CBSE Class 12 Chemistry, so I am currently not eligible for MHT CET CAP rounds or JEE-based admissions. As a result, my current percentile scores are of no use this year. My compartment examination is scheduled for 28th July, and I am confident that I will clear it. Given this situation, I wanted to ask: - Should I take admission in a below-average college that is still available after clearing the compartment? - Or would it be better to take a one-year drop, prepare again, and aim for a much better college next year?
Ans: I could have given a more accurate response if you had also shared your 12th Grade Maths and Physics marks. However, based on the information provided, I want to remind you—in case you are not already aware—that you need to ensure a score of at least 75% or be in the top 20 percentile in your board exams. Scoring above the 96 percentile in JEE 2027 will be extremely challenging but not impossible based on your JEE 2026 performance. Your MH-CET performance is good and can be further improved with focused preparation over 7-8 months. The large disparity between your JEE and MH-CET results is unclear to me. To answer your question, I suggest considering a drop year to prepare well and strategically for both exams. Additionally, it is advisable to have at least 8-9 backup options apart from JEE and MH-CET, such as COMEDK, PERA-CET, VITEEE, AEEE, SITEE, etc., and/or register with some reputed colleges that accept your Board Exam or JEE scores. 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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