Should I pursue a master's degree after not finding a job in cyber security?

Ans: Hello;

Why do you want to use insurance for your retirement planning?

They provide pathetic return on investment.

NPS or mutual funds is highly recommended for retirement planning.

If you have any other queries, feel free to revert.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Your plan demonstrates a well-thought-out approach to leveraging your investments while keeping liabilities manageable. Your decision to raise funds through an overdraft loan against shares and mutual funds is practical given the significant market value of your investments. However, there are a few aspects to evaluate for better clarity and financial stability.

Advantages of Your Strategy
Liquidity Without Selling Investments: Using an overdraft loan against your equity and mutual fund investments helps retain the assets.

SWP to Cover Interest Payments: A systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) ensures regular cash flow to meet interest expenses.

Property Value as Collateral: Your land property provides additional financial security.

Future Potential of Investments: Your expectation of Rs. 10 crore over 7-8 years appears reasonable given historical growth trends.

Concerns and Potential Risks
Market Volatility: Both equities and mutual funds are subject to market fluctuations.

Interest Burden: Over time, the compounding of the interest at 10.35% could strain liquidity.

Delays in Property Completion: Construction delays could impact cash flow plans.

Over-dependence on SWP: Over-reliance on SWP can erode long-term wealth if markets underperform.

Alternative Ways to Manage Overdraft Loan
Diversify Funding Sources
Split the Loan Amount: Explore partial loans from banks or NBFCs secured by the property itself.

Loan Against Fixed Deposits: Use your FD as collateral for a part of the loan.

Consider a Lower-Interest Loan: Negotiate with lenders for a lower interest rate.

Optimise SWP Strategy
Adjust Withdrawal Amount: Reduce SWP if the market experiences a downturn.

Partial Sale of Underperforming Units: Sell a small portion of underperforming investments to reduce the loan burden.

Construction Phasing
Build in Phases: Start with 2-3 floors initially to reduce the upfront loan requirement.

Rental Income from Early Units: Generate income from completed units to support loan repayment.

Emergency Backup Plan
Sell a Unit if Needed: Keep the option of selling one residential unit open to clear the loan.

Gold as Last Resort: Liquidate a small portion of gold only in extreme situations.

Tax Implications
Interest Deduction: Interest paid on loans for property construction could have tax benefits. Consult a tax expert for clarity.

Capital Gains on SWP Withdrawals: Gains from equity mutual fund SWP above Rs. 1.25 lakh per year will be taxed at 12.5%. Ensure tax liabilities are factored in.

Sale of Units: If you sell a unit to repay the loan, calculate the long-term capital gains taxes.

Key Points for Wealth Growth
Reinvest Profits Post Loan Repayment: Post-repayment, redirect surplus to equity or mutual funds for wealth growth.

Monitor Investments Regularly: Periodically review the performance of equity shares and mutual funds.

Diversify Investments: Post-retirement, ensure a diversified portfolio for steady income and wealth preservation.

Finally
Your plan is practical and aligns with your financial goals. However, diversification of funding sources, optimising SWP, and monitoring loan repayment are crucial. Prepare for market volatility and create an emergency backup plan. This approach ensures stability while maximising wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

Ans: Many colleges are there. Give entrance examinations first, then contact me with rank. Then I will be able to guide you. Without knowing rank, it will be a wild guess.

Ans: You should not go for software course. If you are looking for job in IT sector, then why are you studying civil engineering? So, two options are these. Prepare for govt. job. If you get that then rest of your will become more peaceful and secure. If you choose to do higher study then you should give GATE and do M.Tech in good institutions with scholarship. In that case you will be financially independent.

Ans: Hello;

You should exit your direct equity investment as early as possible and close the demat/trading account.

Also mutual fund investments for 3-5 year horizon should be in equity savings type mutual funds or conservative hybrid debt funds.

Avoid exposure to pure equity funds/ETFs.

It is not suitable for your age and time horizon.

Best wishes;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Hello;

1. It is advisable to invest lumpsum of 5 L in a nationalised bank FD. Considering the fact that your kid may enter higher education in 3 years it is not apt to subject it to market vagaries.

2. If you are prepared to hold your lumpsum investments for 5 year+ horizon then no need to worry about short term negative return.

3. Monthly sip's and NPS investments look good.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Hello;

This is good to beginwith.

But you should step up your monthly sip every year commensurate with hike in your income and also some portion of the annual bonus may be used for lumpsum investment.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Hello;

You can extend the PPF account without contribution for a block of 5 years after maturity(15 years).

However you need to inform the bank through submission of form-4, about the extension within one year after maturity.

In the absence of this, the bank is well within its scope to mandate account closure.

Best wishes;

Ans: Hello;

You may choose following type of funds for long term horizon:

1. ELSS fund (you already have)
2. Flexicap fund
3. Large and Midcap fund

You may select any fund from the top quartile of the respective fund categories.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest