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Mayank

Mayank Rautela  | Answer  |Ask -

HR Expert - Answered on Mar 11, 2022

Mayank Rautela is the group chief human resources officer at Apollo Hospitals.
A management graduate from the Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies with a master's degree in labour laws from Pune University, Rautela has over 20 years of experience in general management, strategic human resources, global mergers and integrations and change management.... more
Aseem Question by Aseem on Mar 11, 2022Hindi
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Career

Dear Mayank,
I am 45 years old.
After completing my SSC, I completed my three-year diploma in computer technology from the board of technical examinations, Mumbai (year of passing is 1997). So I'm an undergraduate.
Since the last seven years, I've been working as a content writer (English).
In 2019, I completed a one year diploma in creative writing in English from IGNOU.
I want to continue my career as a content writer, but sometimes there are many job openings which are open for only BA graduates (English).
Now, considering I have 15 years of work life, should I pursue a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) English from IGNOU via distance education? Please give me your advice -- will doing this BA be worth it?
Thank you in advance.
Regards,
Aseem Bhatnagar
Mumbai

Ans:

Hi Aseem.

You must definitely pursue your graduation; that will give you an entry into almost any company that has an opening in the content department.

While you do that, do have a candid discussion with your current management.

Explain that you wish to grow in your career and you are investing in your self-growth by completing your education. That way, you will be in the reckoning for a promotion in your current company.

Career

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4450 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 20, 2024

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Career
Hi sir, I have a few questions regarding the graduation program. I am currently working as a Data Analyst and have an undergraduate background (10+3 - Diploma in Civil Engineering) with over 15 years of work experience in various industries and roles. I am planning to join a BBA course that aligns with my work profile. The reasons for this decision are as follows: 1. Many MNC companies have made it mandatory for candidates to have a minimum of 15 years of education. While I understand that companies have their criteria, it is disappointing that extensive work experience is often overlooked in favor of a graduation certificate, which nowadays can sometimes be easily obtained without real merit. 2. A graduation degree is also essential for overseas job opportunities, and it has been my dream to work abroad for 3-5 years. Considering the above reasons, I have decided to pursue a BBA course. However, I am facing some challenges: a. Having completed my studies in 2008, I am out of touch with academic pursuits and have concentration issues, which may make it difficult for me to pass exams. Nonetheless, I understand that I need to overcome this and focus on my studies to achieve my dream. b. I have two options for the BBA course: online mode and distance education (offline mode). I am unsure which mode will better support my goal of securing a job in an MNC or an overseas opportunity. c. My close circle has suggested IGNOU University, stating that its certificate has a good reputation in the market. Therefore, I am uncertain whether to choose an online mode (such as SRM Institute) or an offline mode (such as IGNOU or KSOU University). Could you please guide me on this matter? Thank you.
Ans: Ravichandra Sir,

1) KSOU is individually good. But as you have gained vast working experience, it is suggested to find out other better options to choose from.

2) You have rightly mentioned that IGNOU Certificate has a good reputation in the market and IGNOU provides comprehensive and well-structured textbooks and study material. However, due to time constraints, you will not have much time to go through each page and take notes, etc.

3) So, it is suggested to go for an online BBA Course with live/recorded online lectures. Here, you will have to check & ensure:

(a) the minimum attendance required
(b) timings of the live sessions should not clash with your office timings.
(c) timeline to submit assignments / Project Reports
(d) fees payable / affordability
(e) Soft copies of Materials provided
(f) Are there any other reputed universities/institutes that provide BBA online courses (other than SRM/Manipal)? On LinkedIn, recently there was news that IIM-Bangalore has a plan to start BBA-Online by September 2024. Please keep checking its website from now onwards.
(g) Try to join a reputed university/institute & research more for a month to choose the best one to reflect in your Resume.

Keeping in view the above factors, please choose the most suitable Institute / University and pursue your BBA.

All the BEST for your Bright Future, Sir.

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 22, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 22, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sirs Please review my investment towards 7.5 CR. There are 2 components towards it , 1) Generate monthly income post tax of 4 lakhs, 2) Investment Corpus Towards Capital appreciation Towards option 1 : Investing in the following - a) Tata Motors or Chola Perpetual Bonds 1.4 cr , b) ICICI Balanced Advantage Fund 1cr, c) Kotak Balanced advantage fund 1 cr Towards option 2 ie Capital Appreciation investing in the following - a) HDFC Flexi Cap Equity fund 1.25 cr , b) Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Equity Fund 1.25 cr, c) ICICI Prudential India Opportunities Fund 80 Lakhs, d) ICICI Prudential Multi asset fund 80 lakhs I am looking at a 5 - 7 year investment timeline. Have taken early retirement at 50 years and need the funds to sustain myself. Please also advise if Perpetual bonds is a good option Thanks
Ans: Your investment strategy is thoughtfully constructed. You’ve clearly defined two components:

Monthly income of Rs. 4 lakhs

Capital appreciation with a horizon of 5 to 7 years

Let’s assess each component carefully and suggest improvements.

 

 

Monthly Income Generation Plan – Review and Insights
 

You’ve allocated the following towards income generation:

Perpetual Bonds – Rs. 1.4 crore

Two Balanced Advantage Funds – Rs. 2 crore

 

Let us look at the key strengths and areas to optimise.

 

Perpetual Bonds – Risk and Suitability

These bonds are issued with no maturity date.

Issuers can delay interest payments if they face pressure.

Tata Motors or Chola bonds offer high interest, but risk is also higher.

You need dependable income. Perpetuals may cause delays or cuts.

If rated ‘AA’ or lower, risk becomes even higher.

For safety, consider shifting part to high-rated corporate bonds.

Choose instruments with a defined maturity or high credit rating.

 

 

Balanced Advantage Funds – Regular Payout Source

You have allocated Rs. 2 crore to two funds here.

These are suitable for monthly SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan).

They reduce risk by shifting between equity and debt.

This provides smoother return and helps handle market volatility.

Ideal for your need of steady income.

Choose funds with a good track record of 5+ years.

Go for regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner.

They provide guidance and documentation support.

 

 

Key Adjustments to Consider for Income Plan

Don’t depend only on one instrument for income.

Keep part in ultra-short debt funds to manage emergency needs.

You may also allocate a small amount to floating rate funds.

Avoid riskier perpetuals if your lifestyle depends on this cash flow.

 

 

Capital Appreciation Portfolio – Review and Suggestions
 

You have allocated Rs. 4.1 crore across four funds:

Two Flexi Cap Funds – Rs. 2.5 crore

One Thematic Fund (Opportunities) – Rs. 80 lakhs

One Multi Asset Fund – Rs. 80 lakhs

 

This section looks well-structured. Still, here are some observations.

 

Flexi Cap Funds – Long Term Growth Drivers

These offer a mix of large, mid and small cap stocks.

Flexible allocation helps in market ups and downs.

You have spread Rs. 2.5 crore across two flexi caps.

It gives diversified equity exposure.

Good for your 5–7 year horizon.

Continue this investment.

 

 

Thematic Opportunities Fund – Aggressive but Focused

Thematic funds bet on specific trends.

They can perform well in short cycles.

But they are more volatile.

Rs. 80 lakhs is a high amount in one theme.

Reduce this to Rs. 50 lakhs.

Redirect balance to diversified equity or large-cap funds.

 

 

Multi Asset Fund – Helps Manage Volatility

These funds invest across equity, debt, and gold.

They balance returns with risk.

Ideal for medium-term wealth building.

You can continue this allocation.

Add a second multi-asset fund for balance.

 

 

Direct Plan Exposure – Re-evaluate for Personalised Support

Direct plans avoid distribution cost.

But guidance is missing.

Without CFP support, wrong fund choice or exit may happen.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner give tracking.

They help during market swings, taxation and rebalancing.

This becomes very important in large-value portfolios.

 

 

Asset Allocation Review – What’s Working and What Needs Tune-Up
 

Your allocation is roughly:

45% towards income (Rs. 3.4 crore)

55% towards growth (Rs. 4.1 crore)

This mix looks aligned to your goal of current income and future corpus.

Still, consider the following:

 

Review this mix yearly with your Certified Financial Planner

If market rallies too much, shift some growth to income

If interest rates rise, reduce equity withdrawal and increase debt

Keep Rs. 25–30 lakhs in liquid fund for any large emergency

 

 

Taxation on Mutual Funds – Stay Aware of Recent Rules
 

Equity mutual funds:

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%

STCG is taxed at 20%

 

Debt mutual funds:

Both LTCG and STCG taxed as per your tax slab

Most retirees fall in lower slab but tax planning still needed

Prefer SWP for income, not dividend option

Keep P&L statement ready for advance tax filing

 

 

Tax-Free Cash Flow – Can You Improve It?
 

You can also look at these steps:

Use HUF or family member’s name for part investment

Income from their investment gets taxed in their slab

Helps reduce your tax burden

Invest Rs. 1.5 lakh yearly in PPF for guaranteed, tax-free return

Can also explore Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) if eligible

 

 

Avoid Index Funds – Not Suitable for Your Stage
 

Index funds copy the stock market

They don’t adjust based on conditions

There’s no downside protection in falling markets

Actively managed funds give more opportunity to earn and protect

Your current selection rightly avoids index funds

 

 

Avoid Direct Plans Without Support
 

Direct plans don’t include expert guidance

No one checks asset allocation or strategy alignment

You’re investing a large corpus. Mistakes cost more here

Use regular plans via an experienced Certified Financial Planner

They help in paperwork, KYC, taxation, SWP planning, rebalancing

Their personalised help adds more value than small cost savings

 

 

Perpetual Bonds – Should You Continue or Exit?
 

Not the best for regular income seekers

Issuer can skip interest if company faces pressure

Price of these bonds also swings with interest rates

You can’t rely fully on them for Rs. 4 lakh per month

Exit partly and shift to short-duration or banking PSU debt funds

These are better for predictable income with lower risk

 

 

Review of Liquidity and Emergency Planning
 

At least Rs. 30–35 lakhs should be in liquid or overnight funds

This money is for health, family needs or urgent situations

Don’t touch your income or capital funds for this purpose

This buffer will give you confidence and reduce portfolio risk

 

 

Risk Management – How to Prepare for Unseen Events
 

Review health insurance for self and spouse

If you’ve not already done it, get Rs. 25 lakh cover each

Consider critical illness policy to protect against long illness

Update nominations in all funds and accounts

Keep estate plan or Will ready. Talk to your planner on this

 

 

Rebalancing Strategy – Keep it Dynamic
 

Review portfolio every 6 months

Don’t chase top-performing funds blindly

Instead, rebalance as per your income need and age

Reduce equity by 5% every 2 years as you age

This protects corpus and supports steady cash flow

 

 

Finally
 

You’ve structured your Rs. 7.5 crore goal very thoughtfully

You are clear about income and long-term appreciation

Your fund choice is broadly good, with only minor changes needed

Avoid risky bonds like perpetuals as your lifestyle depends on monthly cash flow

Go for actively managed regular funds via Certified Financial Planner support

Keep tax, liquidity, insurance and emergency planning all in place

This will help you enjoy your retirement peacefully and confidently

 

 

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

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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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