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Sushil

Sushil Sukhwani  |564 Answers  |Ask -

Study Abroad Expert - Answered on Oct 28, 2023

Sushil Sukhwani is the founding director of the overseas education consultant firm, Edwise International. He has 31 years of experience in counselling students who have opted to study abroad in various countries, including the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. He is part of the board of directors at the American International Recruitment Council and an honorary committee member of the Australian Alumni Association. Sukhwani is an MBA graduate from Bond University, Australia. ... more
Anand Question by Anand on Oct 26, 2023Hindi
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Career

My son is in 3rd AI Engg. If he wants to pursue higher education , what will be the best option outside India, with loan options.

Ans: Hello Anand,

First and foremost, thank you for getting in touch with us. I am happy to hear that your son is currently in the 3rd year of his Bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence Engineering. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that if your son intends pursuing higher education overseas, he could consider studying at any of the below mentioned countries:

In the UK, your son could consider applying to the University of Cambridge, University College London, University of Oxford, and Imperial College London, regarded for their programs related to AI. The University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and Australian National University in Australia are also known for robust Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence courses. In the USA, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and UC Berkeley, are renowned for offering robust programs in Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science. Applying to the University of British Columbia, University of Toronto, and McGill University in Canada known for their outstanding Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning programs could also be considered by your son. The Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning programs at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and National University of Singapore (NUS) in Singapore could also be factored in by your son. Additionally, your son could consider applying to universities in Netherlands viz., University of Amsterdam, Eindhoven University of Technology, and Delft University of Technology that are known for offering Artificial Intelligence programs in the English language. Top-notch German universities like University of Heidelberg, Technical University of Munich, and University of Stuttgart, also offer programs related to Artificial Intelligence that could be opted for by your son. Moreover, your son could also consider applying to universities in Sweden, Switzerland, and France.

When deciding on the finest choice for your son to pursue his higher education overseas, I would recommend that you take into account the cost, his hobbies, as well as his professional objectives. Additionally, investigate the prerequisites for admission as well as the application deadlines pertaining to each individual country and university of your choosing.

Regarding your query about loan options, I would suggest that you contact us and our team of expert counselors will be more than willing to provide you with further guidance. Thank you!

For more information, you can visit our website.
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Sushil

Sushil Sukhwani  |564 Answers  |Ask -

Study Abroad Expert - Answered on Dec 19, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 18, 2023Hindi
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My son is in 10th now, what are his options for studying abroad?
Ans: Hello,

To begin with, thank you for contacting us. I am glad to hear that your son is currently studying in the 10th grade. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that studying overseas will offer your son access to a world of endless opportunities. Although certain programs are designed keeping secondary school students in mind, you would be glad to know that summer programs or pre-college programs designed specifically for younger students, in turn, offering them exposure to a variety of academic disciplines, cultural backgrounds, as well as various events in life, are offered by a number of colleges and institutions. I would recommend that your son looks into the language immersion classes, summer study programs, as well as the exchange programs that these academic institutions and universities have to offer. Not just that, remember that he can plan beforehand and also make sure that he adheres to the requirements for any programs he might be interested in taking up after he completes high school by conducting a study on the prerequisites for securing admission to foreign universities as soon as possible. Moreover, for students’ his age, aspiring to pursue education overseas, getting in touch with academic advisors or guidance counselors can also prove beneficial as they will be able to offer useful information pertaining to the myriad of possibilities available.

For more information, you can visit our website.

..Read more

Sushil

Sushil Sukhwani  |564 Answers  |Ask -

Study Abroad Expert - Answered on Apr 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 18, 2024Hindi
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Career
My son is 24 years ,bcom and acca affiliate working for 18 months, wants to higher studies ,which country and course will be good for him
Ans: Hello,

First and foremost, thank you for getting in touch with us. I am happy to hear that your son has completed his BCom with ACCA and now wishes to pursue higher studies. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that a number of variables viz., your son’s interests, the location of his choosing, his economic condition, as well as his professional objectives, play a key role in selecting the ideal country and course for his higher education. I would recommend that you take into account the following:

As an answer to your query pertaining to country, I would like to let you know that the UK, well-known for the robust accounting and finance programs it offers, provides a broad range of possibilities for further education, including prominent colleges and universities. Coming to Canada, the country is renowned for its top-tier educational system and friendly atmosphere for overseas students. It is home to a number of universities offering reputed business and accounting programs. Numerous elite universities offering outstanding business and finance programs are located in the USA, providing a myriad of opportunities for international students. For overseas students looking to pursue degrees in accounting and finance, Australia is another sought-after study abroad destination. The country has a robust economy as well as an outstanding educational system.

Concerning your query as to which course will be good for your son, I would like to let you know that he can choose among the courses mentioned below: He can choose to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) in Accounting and Finance: Concentrating on accounting and finance, a specialized master's degree can offer comprehensive knowledge and abilities that are pertinent to your son's professional objectives. Next, based on your son’s professional aspirations, he might choose to pursue professional qualifications viz., CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Your son can also opt for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. For students looking to further their financial and business professions, this is a preferred option. Specialized MBA programs in finance and accounting are offered by a number of universities.

I would suggest that your son conducts an extensive study on and takes into account variables viz., the program’s standing, accreditation, living expenses, post-graduation employment prospects, as well as the possibility of acquiring a work visa or immigration upon graduating. Moreover, in order to gain meaningful information and acquire guidance when making this crucial choice, I would recommend that your son gets in touch with educational counselors, employment consultants, as well as experts in the subject.

For more information, you can visit our website.

..Read more

Sushil

Sushil Sukhwani  |564 Answers  |Ask -

Study Abroad Expert - Answered on Jul 02, 2024

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Career
My son is in 9th class. I am planning for engineering from foreign University after 12th. Pls guide me the best country with financial considerations
Ans: Hello Rashmi,

First and foremost, thank you for getting in touch with us. I am happy to know that your son is currently studying in the 9th grade and further wishes to pursue engineering overseas post completing his 12th grade. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that a number of variables, including the quality of education, living expenses, tuition costs, and possibility of scholarships, are entailed when planning for an engineering degree overseas for your son. To assisting you in deciding on the best country with monetary considerations, I would suggest that you go through the following:

Considering Germany, overseas students are charged minimal or no tuition fees by the majority of public universities. The cost of living in the country is moderate, ranging from €850-1,200 per month. The country offers outstanding education with a number of top-ranked engineering schools. Scholarships are available via DAAD and other organizations.

Coming to Australia, the tuition fees in the country are relatively high, ranging from AUD 25,000-45,000 annually. The cost of living is also high between AUD 1,500-2,500 monthly. With universities viz., the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne, Australia offers an outstanding quality of education. Students can avail scholarships that are available via government and university programs.

Next, talking about Canada, the tuition fees in the country are higher than Germany, but relatively economical in comparison to the USA and the UK, between CAD 20,000-40,000 annually. Although it differs depending on the city, the cost of living ranges from approximately CAD 1,000-1,500 every month. Housing leading universities viz., the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia, top-notch instruction is offered in the country. There are numerous scholarships offered to overseas students via different programs.

In Ireland, the tuition fees are moderate to high, ranging from €9,000-25,000 annually. The living expenses are high, ranging from €1,000-1,800 monthly. With universities viz., Trinity College Dublin, an excellent quality of education is offered. Overseas students can avail numerous scholarships.

Coming to Netherlands, the tuition fees are moderate, ranging from €6,000-15,000 annually for non-EU students. The living cost is similar to Germany, around €800-1,200 monthly. Housing prestigious universities viz., Delft University of Technology, the quality of education offered in the country is high. There are numerous scholarships available for overseas students.

Next, in Sweden, the cost of tuition is moderate, ranging from SEK 80,000-140,000 annually. The living expenses is high, between SEK 8,000-13,000 per month. Home to institutions viz., KTH Royal Institute of Technology, the quality of education offered is high. Scholarships are available via the Swedish Institute and other sources.

I would suggest that your son begins preparing beforehand, concentrating on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and standardized tests viz., the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS. He should investigate scholarships and other forms of monetary assistance in the countries he is considering. Make sure that your son fulfills the language prerequisites for the chosen country and university. Not just that, get acquainted with the application procedure and deadlines for each country.

Bear in mind that the Netherlands and Germany are frequently suggested for their economical tuition, superior education, and low cost of living. Despite its slightly higher expenditures, Canada is also a fantastic choice for those who prefer an English-speaking environment.

For more information, you can visit our website: www.edwiseinternational.com

You can also follow us on our Instagram page: edwiseint

..Read more

Latest Questions
Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |438 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 13, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
My partner and I have been married for 5 years. Lately, I’ve been feeling lonely in my marriage. My partner and I barely talk, and it feels like we’re just coexisting. How can I bring back the emotional connection and intimacy without making it seem like I’m blaming them for the distance?
Ans: Start by creating opportunities for meaningful interaction. Sometimes the daily routines and responsibilities can create emotional walls, so finding a calm and positive environment for conversation is key. You might begin by sharing your feelings in a way that emphasizes your own experience rather than pointing out what your partner might not be doing. For example, saying something like, "I've been feeling a little disconnected lately, and I miss the closeness we used to share," opens the door for dialogue without sounding accusatory.

Rekindling intimacy often starts with small, intentional efforts to reestablish connection. This might mean setting aside time for each other, even if it’s just a few minutes of uninterrupted conversation at the end of the day. Look for moments to express appreciation for your partner, as this can help rebuild emotional warmth and remind them of the value they bring to your life.

It’s also worth reflecting on whether external stresses might be contributing to the distance. If either of you has been overwhelmed by work, family, or personal challenges, addressing those together can foster a sense of partnership and mutual support. Similarly, revisiting shared memories or engaging in activities you used to enjoy together can help reignite the bond you once had.

Lastly, be patient and consistent. Emotional intimacy doesn’t always come back instantly, but with genuine effort, kindness, and an open heart, you can rebuild the connection over time. Consider it a journey you’re embarking on together, rather than something you need to fix alone. If you feel like external guidance might help, discussing this with a couples therapist could provide both of you with tools to strengthen your relationship in a supportive environment.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7262 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 14, 2024Hindi
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Money
URGENT: I have taken huge loan of 15 Lac ( it started with Rs 10000 initially)but I don't have a job. I am adjusting and paying the interest and i am going on taking loans.. Don't know where it will end. Please help me? Now that I have more money than working in any company, People are giving more and more loan thinking I am well off. Sometimes I feel the only solution is Suicide!
Ans: I’m truly sorry to hear about the immense stress you're facing. It’s essential to know that this situation, though overwhelming, can be resolved with the right steps. Your life is precious, and there are people and strategies to help you regain control over your finances and emotional well-being.

Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you:

1. Immediate Steps to Address Emotional Distress
Reach Out to Trusted People: Speak to a close friend, family member, or counselor about how you’re feeling. Sharing your worries can help lighten the burden.

Professional Support: Consider consulting a psychologist or counselor to address feelings of despair. They can guide you in coping and finding hope.

Suicide Helplines: Helplines like AASRA are available 24/7 in India. They provide non-judgmental support and advice.

2. Stop Taking Additional Loans
Taking more loans will only worsen the debt cycle. Communicate with your lenders honestly and explain your current situation.

Avoid making further financial commitments until a proper repayment plan is in place.

3. Evaluate and Consolidate Existing Loans
Make a List of All Loans: Note down the principal, interest rates, and EMI for each loan.

Debt Consolidation: If possible, consolidate your loans into one with a lower interest rate. This will simplify repayments and reduce the interest burden.

Negotiate with Lenders: Speak to your lenders about restructuring your loans. Many financial institutions are willing to renegotiate terms if they see genuine repayment intent.

4. Cut Down on Unnecessary Expenses
Focus only on essential expenses like food, utilities, and basic needs.

Avoid luxury spending or non-essential purchases until you regain financial stability.

5. Seek Employment or Alternate Income
Explore freelance, part-time, or full-time opportunities that align with your skills.

Start small businesses or use your talents to generate income, even if it's modest initially.

6. Engage with a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner can help create a practical repayment plan and optimise your resources. They can also guide you on managing money better in the future.
7. Prioritise Loan Repayment
Begin repaying high-interest loans first to reduce the overall burden.

Use any additional income to make systematic repayments.

8. Build a Support System
Inform your close family or friends about your financial situation. Their understanding and support can help you through this tough time.

Avoid isolation. Regular interactions with loved ones can provide emotional strength.

Final Thoughts
This phase is challenging, but it’s not permanent. Every problem has a solution, and with the right support and plan, you can overcome this.

Your life and well-being are far more valuable than any financial stress. You are not alone, and help is available. Let’s take this one step at a time, and I assure you, there’s a brighter path ahead.

If you’d like, I can assist you further in creating a repayment strategy or exploring additional income options. Please let me know how I can help.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7262 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 14, 2024Hindi
Money
Dear Mr. Ramalingam, I have been reading your column regularly and feel you are giving great advice. Would like your advice and help in seeing what would be my income going forward per month and will that be adequate and how to supplement it. I am aged 62 in kerala. My wife is 58 not working and unmarried daughter, independently earning, who we hope will get married this year. Savings: 1.2 cr in Fd’s in banks and Post office 66 lakhs in PPF (I have been extending it by 5 years each time) 14 lakhs in NPS 1 lakhs in EPF last employment was in Jun 2024 44 lakhs in shares (portfolio bought many years back based on friends recommendation but only few stocks are doing ok rest is just sitting there) 90 lakhs in Mutual funds with several mutual funds (all in growth plans) 86 lakhs at cost price for A flat where I am staying and empty plot (both fully paid for) Income currently is from: LIC Jeevan Suraksha Plan, receiving Rs. 7,021 per month till death LIC Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana -annual receipt of - Rs. 77,979 (till mar 2032) when I get lumpsum back of app Rs. 10 lakhs New Jeevan Shanti Plan – fully paid up but receipts to commence from Mar 2027 monthly Rs. 36,450.00/- till death of self and wife Interest income from few of the FD or break fd principal when required. Little income from dividends Expense: Tata ULIP 20 yr plan premium of 1 lakhs till last payment in 2026 (2 payments left), mature in 2027, current value is 57 lakhs. TATA AIA Fortune Guarantee Pension – annual payment of Rs. 3,06,000/ till last payment in 2026 (2 payments left). 1,07,000 per year from Apr 2028 for life of both of us and return of premium at end of both lives. Aditya Birla Guaranteed Milestone Plan –Paid Rs. 1,02,500 for 5 year last payment this year. Will receive Rs.8,94,000/ in Dec 2031 has life cover of Rs. 15 lakhs (Worst plan I was conned into taking) Family Health insurance of 8 lakhs cover plus a super top up floater of 5 lakhs, covering all 3 of us approximately 45,000 for both policies 12 year old car with 4,000 insurance policy Other expenses approximately 30,000 per month for food etc. Should I change any of my investment etc to get a better income to meet future needs Thanks
Ans: You have diligently built a robust and diversified portfolio. It includes fixed deposits, mutual funds, real estate, and insurance plans. You also have various annuity and pension products. Your current financial situation showcases foresight and discipline.

However, to ensure your monthly income meets your needs and grows with inflation, some restructuring is necessary. Let’s evaluate your assets and income streams in detail and suggest ways to optimise them.

Existing Income Sources and Expenses

Current Income

LIC Jeevan Suraksha Plan: Rs. 7,021 per month (lifetime income).

LIC Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY): Annual income of Rs. 77,979 till 2032.

New Jeevan Shanti Plan: Monthly income of Rs. 36,450 from 2027 (lifetime for self and wife).

Interest Income: From fixed deposits and dividends from shares.

Current Expenses

Household expenses: Rs. 30,000 per month.

Insurance premiums: Rs. 3,51,000 annually until 2026.

Health insurance: Rs. 45,000 per year.

Asset Analysis

Fixed Deposits

Current Value: Rs. 1.2 crore.

Analysis: While secure, FD returns are low and may not keep pace with inflation. Only retain a portion for emergencies.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)

Current Value: Rs. 66 lakh.

Analysis: PPF offers tax-free and risk-free returns. Continue extending it as a safe long-term investment.

National Pension Scheme (NPS)

Current Value: Rs. 14 lakh.

Analysis: NPS has market exposure, offering potential growth. Partial withdrawal for reinvestment can be considered post-retirement.

Employee Provident Fund (EPF)

Current Value: Rs. 1 lakh.

Analysis: Withdraw and reinvest for higher returns.

Shares Portfolio

Current Value: Rs. 44 lakh.

Analysis: A few stocks are performing, while others are stagnant. Retain fundamentally strong stocks. Sell non-performing ones and reinvest proceeds.

Mutual Funds

Current Value: Rs. 90 lakh.

Analysis: Growth plans are suitable for long-term wealth creation. However, evaluate and streamline the portfolio with the help of a Certified Financial Planner.

Real Estate

Flat: Rs. 86 lakh (self-occupied).

Plot: Value not mentioned.

Analysis: These assets provide stability but do not generate regular income. Retain them as non-liquid investments.

Insurance Plans

TATA ULIP: Current value of Rs. 57 lakh, matures in 2027.

Recommendation: Surrender post-2026 and reinvest in mutual funds for better returns.

TATA AIA Fortune Guarantee Pension: Annual payout of Rs. 1,07,000 from 2028.

Recommendation: Retain as a fixed income source.

Aditya Birla Guaranteed Milestone Plan: Payout of Rs. 8.94 lakh in 2031.

Recommendation: Retain until maturity. Avoid similar plans in future.

Recommendations to Enhance Income

1. Restructure Fixed Deposits

Retain Rs. 30 lakh as emergency funds in liquid FDs.

Reallocate Rs. 90 lakh into debt mutual funds for better post-tax returns. Choose funds with low risk and stable performance.

2. Optimise Shares Portfolio

Retain strong-performing stocks. These can provide growth over the long term.

Liquidate underperforming stocks and reinvest proceeds into equity mutual funds. Select funds aligned with your risk tolerance.

3. Streamline Mutual Funds Portfolio

Review your existing funds to avoid duplication and underperformance.

Retain well-performing funds and shift others to actively managed diversified funds.

Opt for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner for professional advice and monitoring.

4. PPF and NPS

Continue extending PPF for tax-free returns.

Do not withdraw from NPS until it’s mandated. Allocate the lumpsum received wisely at maturity.

5. Insurance Plan Adjustments

Allow the TATA ULIP to mature and surrender it in 2027.

Retain the TATA AIA and Aditya Birla plans until maturity as fixed income sources.

Avoid high-premium insurance plans in future.

6. Increase Monthly Income

From 2027 onwards, New Jeevan Shanti and other payouts will provide substantial monthly income.

Until then, use dividends, interest from debt mutual funds, and systematic withdrawals from mutual funds for supplementary income.

7. Plan for Inflation

Maintain a mix of equity and debt investments to beat inflation.

Ensure equity exposure is at least 40% of your portfolio for long-term growth.

8. Health Insurance Adequacy

Current health insurance of Rs. 8 lakh with a Rs. 5 lakh super top-up is reasonable.

Review coverage every 2-3 years and increase if necessary.

Final Insights

Your financial portfolio is solid and well-diversified. With minor adjustments, it can provide inflation-adjusted income. Focus on reallocating underperforming assets and streamlining investments. Regular reviews will ensure your wealth grows while meeting your needs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Archana

Archana Deshpande  |93 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Dec 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 11, 2024Hindi
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Career
I am 35, MBA from a reputed college. I recently took over as senior project manager in a software company. Over the last few months, I’ve been asked to lead more high-stakes presentations, but every time I step in front of a group of senior professionals, my nerves take over. I can’t seem to communicate my ideas clearly, and I end up rambling or losing the audience. It’s frustrating because I know the content is strong, but I can’t deliver it with the confidence it needs. I’m starting to feel like this could affect my career growth if I don’t improve. I want to know how to seem more confident and present my ideas with clarity.
Ans: Hi!!

I can understand what you are going through.
I have helped many a people to become better communicators, presenters and public speakers. I agree with you when you say .. that these skills will augur well for your career growth.
What I can say is this .. that it is a learnable skill. Practice and more practice is the only way ahead. You said your content is strong, that is 50% of the job done, so build up on this confidence and practice your delivery in front of the mirror or in front of encouraging family/friends.
The only way to gain confidence is to "JUST DO IT"....to calm your nerves- deep breathing techniques and visualizations techniques will be useful.
I can help you on this journey of being a person who delivers with panache!

There are books by Dale Carnegie on public speaking which can help you out. Also read about Abe Lincoln and his journey of becoming a great orator, it can maybe help you.

Remember, PRACTICE AND PRACTICE is the key to unlock your confidence and become the person who delvers with panache.

All the best!!

...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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