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Chandu

Chandu Nair  | Answer  |Ask -

VC, Angel Investing, Entrepreneurship Expert - Answered on Nov 02, 2023

Chandu Nair advises entrepreneurs and enterprises about creating and building their business.
He has direct experience in angel, venture capital and strategic investor funding. Over the last three decades, he has made a name for himself in industry, consultancy, media and information services.
Nair is on the advisory boards of the Chennai-based private equity firm Fulcrum and the social impact fund, Menterra. He's an independent director on the board of India's first retail building products company, Shankara Building Products Limited.
He was the co-founder of Scope e-Knowledge Center, a pioneering knowledge process outsourcing company, as well as the co-founder of a business-to-business e-commerce venture, both of which he successfully exited.... more
azad Question by azad on Oct 11, 2023Hindi
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Career

for past 19 years i am working in a manufacturing company namely Tinplate company of india limited jamshedpur as mechanical engineer i want to do some buniness so that i have some monetory stability and extra income as you know today no one job is fixed forever pl suggest some small business for me so that after i loose my job i can sustain some income

Ans: Mr Azad, you would like to have a side business to generate additional income. You have provided no idea of your skills/expertise/ experience nor of your financial situation (I am guessing that you don't have any surplus to invest in a business).

First and foremost, pl check if your current employer permits moonlighting or having another job even if it is freelance/ gig work. Many companies can take stringent action in this regard.
Second, what skills/expertise/ experience do you have which is distinct from your current job at TCIL? E.g., are you a good writer, or can draw or teach well or translate from one language to another, or cook etc etc. That will help you identify possible alternate income generating possibilities,
Third, how much free time do you have per day? On the weekends? And at what time? That will narrow down the list of ideas.
Fourth, what kind of other infrastructure, manpower support etc is required for the idea? Do you have the ability to get /pay for it? If you don't, you can only do those activities which rely on your time and expertise. You need to be able to give focused attention to it on a sustained business be it tuitions, writing, cooking, generating online content or whatever else you finally choose.
Fifth, do you have access to a set of customers/ buyers who want what you can offer and are willing to pay for it and can you easily reach them?
Once you have gone through these steps, you would have likely identified an idea that can potentially give you an alternate source of income.
Best of luck
Career

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 02, 2024Hindi
Money
I am a cabin crew in India. I am 28years old no savings yet. But loan of 3lakhs. Planning to clear all my loans in the next 8 months. After that all my earnings will be my savings. Also I am planning for some business. I am good at art work and cooking also I am a fashion designer. Please suggest me what business will be good for me..also I am completely alone noone to take care of me in future. And I have no backup. Whatever I have earned n I will earn infuture will be my only hope. Please suggest me how can I save also any business ideas.
Ans: Assessing Your Financial Situation
First, congratulations on your plan to clear your loans within the next 8 months. This shows a strong commitment to financial stability. With a clear focus on repaying your debt, you’re already on the right path.

Creating a Debt Repayment Plan
Prioritizing Loan Repayment
Prioritize paying off your Rs 3 lakh loan within the next 8 months. This means allocating a significant portion of your income towards this goal. Calculate the exact monthly payment needed to achieve this within your desired timeframe.

Budgeting Effectively
Create a detailed budget that outlines your income and expenses. Identify areas where you can cut back temporarily to ensure maximum loan repayment. This disciplined approach will accelerate your debt clearance.

Building an Emergency Fund
Importance of an Emergency Fund
Once your loan is cleared, the next step is to build an emergency fund. This fund should cover at least 6 months of living expenses. It provides a safety net in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss or medical emergencies.

How to Save for an Emergency Fund
Set aside a fixed amount each month into a high-interest savings account until you reach your target. This fund should be easily accessible and separate from your regular savings.

Exploring Business Ideas
Given your skills in art, cooking, and fashion design, there are several business ideas that could be a good fit for you. Here are a few to consider:

Online Art Store
Use your artistic skills to create unique art pieces and sell them online. Platforms like Etsy or your own website can help you reach a wide audience.

Home-Based Bakery or Catering
If you enjoy cooking, consider starting a home-based bakery or catering service. You can begin with small orders for friends and family and gradually expand your customer base.

Fashion Design and Boutique
Leverage your fashion design skills to start a boutique. You can create custom designs and offer them through an online store or local market.

Creating a Business Plan
Market Research
Conduct market research to understand the demand for your products or services. Identify your target audience and competitors. This research will help you refine your business idea and develop a strong business plan.

Financial Planning for Business
Estimate the initial investment required for your business. This includes costs for materials, marketing, and other essentials. Plan how you will fund your business, whether through savings, loans, or other sources.

Saving and Investing for the Future
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Once your emergency fund is in place, consider starting a SIP in mutual funds. SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, which can grow significantly over time due to compounding.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a safe investment option with attractive interest rates and tax benefits. It’s suitable for long-term savings and helps build a secure financial future.

Recurring Deposits (RD)
RDs in banks allow you to save a fixed amount monthly with guaranteed returns. They are low-risk investments and help inculcate the habit of regular saving.

Diversifying Investments
Importance of Diversification
Diversification spreads your investments across different asset classes, reducing risk and enhancing returns. This approach ensures that poor performance in one asset class doesn’t significantly impact your overall portfolio.

Suggested Allocation
A balanced portfolio might include 50% in equity mutual funds for growth, 30% in debt mutual funds for stability, and 20% in fixed-income instruments like PPF or RD.

Regular Monitoring and Adjustment
Tracking Your Investments
Regularly monitor the performance of your investments to ensure they align with your financial goals. This helps in making informed decisions and necessary adjustments.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation. This involves selling over-performing assets and reinvesting in underperforming ones.

Financial Discipline
Consistent Saving and Investing
Consistency is key to successful saving and investing. Save and invest regularly, even if the amount is small. Over time, this disciplined approach will help in accumulating substantial wealth.

Avoiding Impulse Spending
Avoid impulse spending and prioritize your financial goals. This ensures that you have sufficient funds to save and invest regularly.

Importance of Financial Literacy
Educate Yourself
Invest time in educating yourself about financial markets and investment principles. This empowers you to make informed investment decisions.

Stay Updated
Stay updated with market trends and economic developments. This helps in understanding the impact of market movements on your investments.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner
Professional Guidance
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized investment advice based on your financial goals and risk tolerance. They help in creating a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your needs.

Avoiding Common Investment Mistakes
Over-Reliance on a Single Asset
Avoid putting all your money into a single investment. Diversify your portfolio to spread risk and enhance returns.

Chasing High Returns
Chasing high returns often leads to taking excessive risks. Focus on creating a balanced portfolio that offers steady and sustainable returns.

Emergency Fund
Financial Cushion
Maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. This prevents the need to dip into your long-term investments during emergencies.

Setting Realistic Expectations
Long-Term Perspective
Invest with a long-term perspective. While markets may fluctuate in the short term, they tend to offer good returns over the long term.

Patience and Discipline
Patience and discipline are crucial for successful investing. Stick to your investment plan and avoid making impulsive decisions based on market movements.

Investing in Your Future
Starting Early
Starting early gives you the advantage of time. The earlier you start investing, the more you benefit from compounding, resulting in substantial wealth accumulation over time.

Goal-Based Investing
Invest with specific goals in mind. Whether it's expanding your business, buying a house, or retirement, having clear goals helps in creating a focused investment strategy.

Risk Management
Understanding Risk
Understand the risks associated with different investment options. This helps in making informed decisions and choosing investments that match your risk tolerance.

Mitigating Risk
Mitigate risk by diversifying your investments across different asset classes. This ensures that poor performance in one asset class does not significantly impact your overall returns.

Tax Planning
Tax-Efficient Investments
Choose tax-efficient investments that offer deductions and exemptions under various sections of the Income Tax Act. This helps in maximizing your net returns.

Understanding Tax Implications
Understand the tax implications of your investments to plan effectively. This helps in optimizing your investment returns and minimizing tax liability.

Conclusion
Clearing your loan and focusing on savings and investments will set you on a path to financial stability. Leveraging your skills in art, cooking, and fashion design to start a business can provide an additional income stream. Create a diversified investment portfolio and invest regularly to build a secure financial future. Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner to develop a personalized financial strategy. Stay disciplined and informed to navigate your financial journey successfully.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Adarsh

Adarsh Rai  |12 Answers  |Ask -

HR, Leadership coach - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 11, 2025Hindi
Career
Hi. I am currently 29. Married with no kids. Wife not earning. Planning for a kid this year. Monthly earning 60k post tax. Have savings of 2 lakhs. Have personal loan of 9 lakhs. Monthly expenses 40k including emi's. I have lost interest in job and I don't want to work anymore. I want to do business which can give monthly 50 to 60k income. Max I can invest 2lakhs. Is there any business which I can start with 2 lakhs and generate monthly income of 60k ? I am frustrated with working under an employer. I want to start my own venture. Please suggest.
Ans: Spandan, pause before you mail the resignation.

Your maths
60 k take-home
40 k spends (15 k of that is EMI on a 9 L loan)
→ 20 k buffer

A newborn will nudge monthly costs up by 8-10 k. Cash cushion shrinks fast.

So the plan must earn while you learn, not leap blind.

Keep the paycheck six more months.
Use evenings to test micro-ideas. Risk stays capped at ?0 for now.

Choose a “cash-this-month” niche, not a moon-shot.
Pick work that turns inventory ≤ ?50 k into sales inside 30 days.

Tiffin + office snacks (two dishes, 40 boxes) - ?25 k utensils, ?10 k FSSAI, ?5 k flyers - ?120 per box × 40 = ?4.8 k /day

Amazon / Flipkart reselling (phone cases, cables) ?40 k stock, ?15 k ads 25 % net margin on ?2 L monthly sales = ?50 k

Weekend print-on-demand & personalised gifting kiosk ?45 k heat-press kit (other options are there too) ?300 profit per mug × 200 pcs → ?60 k Bring Your Mug - Take Away Memories.

Local social-media management for clinics & salons ?0 gear, ?3 k Canva Pro ?8 k-?12 k per client; 6 clients hit target

None need heavy staff or rent. All can run beside your day job.

Set one simple goal: ?15 k profit by Day-30.
Hit it twice, raise target to ?35 k. Only when side income beats salary three months straight do you quit.

This is critical - Plug leaks early. Refinance personal loan to longer tenor; shave EMI to ~?10 k.

Park 1 L of savings in an emergency account—no touch.Skill up tiny, daily.
Watch a YouTube on ad copy, take a WhatsApp course on GST filings. Low cost, immediate payback.

Start small, sell fast, reinvest every rupee. Freedom comes, but by steps, not by one loud jump.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 27, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 58 years old. Plan to retire in 2 years. Have 50 lacs in mutual funds. 30 in hdfc balanced advantage.fund dividend option. How can i generate 50000 in SWP. Is it possible?
Ans: You have built Rs.50 lakhs in mutual funds. That’s a good foundation. You are also two years away from retirement. These steps show foresight and responsibility.

Many people reach retirement without preparation. But you have built an investment base. That deserves appreciation.

Now, let’s look at whether a monthly SWP of Rs.50,000 is possible.

Understanding Your Current Portfolio Structure

You mentioned Rs.30 lakhs is in one fund — a balanced advantage fund. It’s in the dividend option.

The rest, Rs.20 lakhs, is assumed to be in other mutual funds. Let’s review what this structure means.

Balanced Advantage Funds (BAF)

These funds move between equity and debt.

They aim to reduce risk during volatility.

Good for conservative to moderate investors.

Suitable for retirees seeking lower risk.

May give stable but not very high growth.

Dividend Option – Not Ideal

Dividend is not fixed income.

It depends on fund profits and SEBI rules.

May be stopped anytime.

Tax is deducted at source (TDS).

You lose the power of compounding.

So, staying in dividend option is not wise. You are not in control of the income.

You Want Monthly Income of Rs.50,000 Through SWP

Let’s see if this is possible and sustainable.

Rs.50,000 per month means Rs.6 lakhs per year. From Rs.50 lakhs, this is 12% annual withdrawal.

Now we assess the safety of this withdrawal rate.

Why 12% Withdrawal Rate is High

Mutual funds don’t give fixed returns.

Equity funds can give 10-12%, but not guaranteed.

Debt and hybrid funds give 6-8% usually.

If you withdraw more than growth, capital reduces fast.

In bad years, portfolio value may drop sharply.

So, withdrawing 12% yearly is risky. It may not sustain for 20+ years.

Better Withdrawal Strategy for Your Case

To make your money last longer, try these:

Withdraw only 6-7% yearly, not 12%.

Keep part of portfolio in safer debt funds.

Keep equity funds for long-term growth.

Start SWP from debt side, not equity side.

Review portfolio yearly with a Certified Financial Planner.

Delay full SWP till after retirement, if you can.

With Rs.50 lakhs, a monthly SWP of Rs.30,000 is more realistic. That is Rs.3.6 lakhs per year, about 7.2% withdrawal. This is safer.

How to Structure Your Portfolio for Retirement

At 58, you need less risk and more peace. Structure is very important.

Here’s a suitable approach:

Debt Funds: 40% (Rs.20 lakhs)

Balanced Advantage / Conservative Hybrid: 30% (Rs.15 lakhs)

Equity (Flexi or Large cap): 30% (Rs.15 lakhs)

This creates a mix of growth and safety. You can draw monthly income from debt funds.

How to Generate SWP from This Structure

Start Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from debt funds.

Keep 3 years of expected income in safe funds.

That’s Rs.18 lakhs for Rs.50,000 per month for 3 years.

This protects from market shocks.

While you draw income, equity portion keeps growing for future.

This way, you don’t sell equity when markets fall. That protects your capital.

Why Direct Funds May Not Suit You Now

You didn’t mention whether your funds are direct or regular. But at this stage of life, direct funds can be dangerous.

Disadvantages of direct funds now:

You manage everything alone.

No guidance on withdrawals.

No emotional support during market fall.

Risk of picking wrong funds.

Tax planning becomes tricky.

Better to invest through regular funds with a Certified Financial Planner.

You will get:

Correct asset allocation

Help in SWP planning

Regular reviews and rebalancing

Peace of mind in retirement

Avoid Index Funds in Retirement

Some may suggest index funds for retirement. But this is not wise.

Problems with index funds:

No protection in market fall

No active risk management

Not designed for income

Not good for capital safety

Instead, use actively managed funds. They adjust based on market and economic changes. Safer for retirees.

Consider These Important Retirement Rules

When building retirement income, keep these principles in mind:

Do not chase high returns.

Safety and stability matter more.

Don’t withdraw from equity during market dip.

Don’t invest in ULIPs or endowment plans now.

Don’t rely on dividends for income.

Avoid annuities, they give poor returns and no flexibility.

Always keep emergency fund ready.

Tax Implications on SWP

With SWP, you are redeeming units. This triggers capital gains.

Latest tax rules for equity funds:

LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh per year taxed at 12.5%

STCG is taxed at 20%

For debt funds:

Both LTCG and STCG taxed as per your income slab

So, SWP from equity may give lower tax. But only if holding is more than one year.

From debt funds, tax can be higher. Plan SWP from long-term holdings first. Also, stagger redemptions smartly.

A Certified Financial Planner will plan redemptions tax-efficiently.

Role of Your Spouse in This Planning

Check if any part of investment is in your spouse’s name.

If not, shift some. This helps split income and save tax.

Also, if your spouse is younger, invest more in their name. This increases investment horizon.

Other Income Sources Must Be Considered

Don’t depend only on mutual funds. Check these too:

Pension

PF or EPF

Bank FDs or SCSS

Post Office income schemes

Rental income (if any)

Part-time work income

Mutual fund SWP should be one part of income, not the only one.

Review and Rebalance Regularly

Once SWP starts, review every year.

Look at:

Fund performance

Remaining capital

New needs

Tax changes

Market movements

Adjust accordingly. This ensures money lasts your full retirement.

Should You Exit LIC or ULIP Plans?

You didn’t mention any LIC, ULIP, or insurance policies. But if you have such investment policies, assess them.

If they give poor returns (below 5%), consider surrendering.

Then, reinvest that amount into mutual funds with a planned structure. This improves growth and liquidity.

Emergency Fund is Still Needed

Even in retirement, you need backup. Keep 6-12 months expenses in liquid funds or bank.

This prevents panic withdrawals from equity funds.

You can use:

Liquid mutual funds

Sweep-in fixed deposits

Savings accounts with auto FD feature

SWP Alone May Not Be Enough for Very Long Retirement

If you live till 85 or 90, inflation will eat into value.

Rs.50,000 today may not be enough after 15 years.

So, increase SWP slowly. Maybe 3% rise per year. But don’t overdraw early.

Also, invest some part in equity for growth. This beats inflation in long term.

Finally

You are well-prepared with Rs.50 lakhs in mutual funds.

Monthly SWP of Rs.50,000 is aggressive, but not impossible.

Reduce it to Rs.30,000 to make it more sustainable.

Avoid dividend option funds. Move to growth option.

Build a solid mix of equity and debt.

Start SWP from debt side to reduce market risk.

Review your plan every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid direct funds. Use regular funds for expert help.

Don’t invest in annuities or index funds.

Keep emergency fund separate and ready.

Plan tax-efficient withdrawals.

Make spouse part of the strategy.

This 360-degree plan ensures income, peace, and confidence in retirement.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 08, 2025Hindi
Money
My husband and I together earn 5 lakh per month. We have two kids, 13-year-old and 6-year-old. We spend close to 4 lakh per child on their education. It increases 5 to 10% every year. We have one plot which is valued at some 1.5 crores right now. And another flat which we have recently bought for around 2.5 crores. We have loan of some 35 lakhs right now which we can close in next 2 years. Together we have some 70 lakh in provident fund and 1.2 crore in PPF other than that we have few lakhs worth of gold, gold bonds, in stocks, SIPs etc. total of all this would not be more than 30 lac. Btw My husband is 43 and I am 39. Pls help with financial planning for retirement.
Ans: You and your husband have built a strong foundation. However, with high educational expenses, rising costs, and your desire to retire comfortably, it is important to plan from a 360-degree view.

Below is a comprehensive and simplified retirement strategy for your family.

Understand Your Current Financial Strength
Combined income of Rs 5 lakh/month is solid.

Rs 70 lakh in PF and Rs 1.2 crore in PPF gives safety.

Property and plot are non-liquid but strong long-term assets.

Gold, stocks, and SIPs worth Rs 30 lakh need better allocation.

Outstanding loan of Rs 35 lakh is manageable with your income.

Education costs are high but predictable.

Let’s now break your planning into key areas.

1. Retirement Goal Planning
You are 39. You may want to retire by 58 or 60. That gives you 18–20 years to invest.

Important points to consider:

You will need minimum Rs 4–5 crore (in today’s value).

After inflation, you may actually need Rs 10–12 crore at retirement.

Medical cost after age 60 can be very high.

You need long-term wealth-creating instruments, not just safe ones.

Action steps:

Keep PPF and PF for debt stability. Don't withdraw early.

Increase SIPs systematically. Aim for Rs 1 lakh/month in 2–3 years.

Don’t invest in real estate now. It’s illiquid and difficult to exit.

Do not use direct mutual funds. You need regular plan via MFD with CFP support.

Don’t depend on index funds or ETFs. They copy the index, not beat it.

Actively managed equity mutual funds can outperform over time.

Use them through proper portfolio design with help of Certified Financial Planner.

2. Education Fund for Children
Your elder child is 13. College will start in 4–5 years.

For both children, you need:

Rs 1 crore each for higher education in India or abroad.

More if your children go for postgrad abroad.

Steps to prepare:

Create separate education portfolios for each child.

Use equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

Shift to safer assets 2–3 years before actual usage.

Don’t mix children’s funds with your retirement funds.

Avoid ULIP, insurance-linked policies. They don’t create real wealth.

Don’t use gold or real estate as main sources for funding education.

3. Investment Optimisation
Let’s focus on where you should invest now.

Ideal future portfolio should include:

60–65% in equity mutual funds (actively managed, regular plans).

15–20% in debt mutual funds or PF/PPF/NPS for safety.

5–10% in gold bonds (already covered).

Keep 6 months of expenses as emergency fund in FD or liquid funds.

Rebalance portfolio once a year.

Your Rs 30 lakh outside PF/PPF can be invested as:

Rs 20 lakh in 4–5 diversified mutual funds.

Rs 5 lakh in short-term debt fund or liquid fund.

Rs 5 lakh in gold bonds if needed.

Don’t invest directly in stock market unless you can track and understand companies.

4. Loan Repayment Strategy
You are planning to close Rs 35 lakh loan in 2 years.

Things to remember:

Paying off the loan early is great for mental peace.

But don’t empty all liquid funds while doing it.

Keep Rs 10–15 lakh in FD or debt fund aside.

Use bonus or surplus income to part-pay loan gradually.

If interest rate is above 9%, prioritise early closure.

Don’t use gold, PF or PPF for loan closure.

Once loan is closed, you will free up big cashflow. Redirect this into SIPs.

5. Insurance & Risk Protection
Essentials for your family:

Term insurance for both you and husband – coverage minimum Rs 1.5 crore each.

Don’t use ULIP or endowment plans for investment.

Have family floater health insurance Rs 20–25 lakh.

Buy personal accident insurance for both of you.

Create a will and nominate properly across all accounts.

6. Monthly Budget and Savings Flow
Let’s structure your Rs 5 lakh income:

Rs 60–70k – household expenses

Rs 65–70k – school fees for 2 kids

Rs 50–60k – home loan EMI

Rs 50k – insurance + medical

Rs 20k – gold, travel, others

That leaves over Rs 1.5 lakh surplus. Use this surplus carefully.

Split it like this:

Rs 75k–1 lakh SIPs (via regular plan, actively managed funds)

Rs 25k–30k for debt fund/emergency fund

Rs 10–15k gold savings if needed

Rest for flexible spending or buffer

7. Avoid Common Mistakes
Don’t invest in real estate further. You already have enough.

Don’t buy policies that mix insurance with returns.

Don’t keep all money in PPF, FD or gold.

Don’t use index funds. They are not designed to beat market returns.

Don’t use direct plans. You will lose guidance and make poor fund choices.

8. What to Do Now (Immediate Next Steps)
Review SIPs. Increase them to Rs 1 lakh/month over 1 year.

Create separate SIPs for retirement and kids’ education.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner to build 2 goal-based portfolios.

Plan to invest 60–70% of your gold/stocks in better-managed mutual funds.

Get updated term and health insurance.

Set emergency fund of Rs 10 lakh minimum.

Finally
You have income strength and discipline. But your investments need structure.

Retirement planning is not just saving money. It’s creating the right flow, growth and safety.

Avoid distractions like property, index funds and direct plans.

Focus on your goals with expert help.

Invest via regular plans, through trusted CFP-backed MFDs.

Review every year and stay consistent.

You can retire well, educate both children fully, and live with dignity.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Money
Hi Sir, I am 55 years old. from next month onwards i am planning to invest in SIP for 5 years approximately 20,000 per month and 5,000 for shares. my questions is it good idea. if yes please advice me top 8 to 10 mutual fund. thank you sir
Ans: You are 55 years old and planning to invest Rs. 20,000 monthly in mutual funds and Rs. 5,000 in shares for the next 5 years. This is a sensible move if done with clarity and proper strategy. Below is a detailed guidance from a Certified Financial Planner’s perspective, keeping in mind your age, time horizon, and financial goals.

Assessing Your Investment Decision
Investing at 55 is absolutely possible.

It’s never too late to build wealth smartly.

Five-year horizon needs careful fund selection.

At this stage, capital protection is also important.

You must balance growth with safety.

You are doing the right thing by thinking long-term.

SIPs help in rupee cost averaging over time.

Investing monthly builds good discipline and control.

Suitability of Mutual Funds for You
Mutual funds give diversification across sectors.

You can start small and grow steadily.

SIPs avoid timing the market.

Mutual funds are professionally managed.

Ideal for salaried, retired, or business people.

You get access to equity and debt both.

Perfect tool to grow wealth systematically.

Suitable for your age and risk tolerance.

Flexible and transparent investment vehicle.

Direct vs Regular Plan – Choose Wisely
Avoid direct mutual funds unless you are a pro.

Direct funds give no support or handholding.

A wrong fund choice can hurt wealth creation.

Regular funds come with service from an MFD.

Choose a MFD with CFP certification only.

They help in rebalancing and portfolio review.

At your age, personalised advice is vital.

One wrong step may take years to correct.

The small cost in regular plans is worth it.

It pays for itself through better decisions.

Equity vs Index Funds – Which is Better?
Avoid index funds in your situation.

Index funds copy the market without analysis.

They can’t protect during market fall.

Index funds fall fully with the market.

No fund manager is watching over.

Actively managed funds perform better in India.

Skilled managers pick better quality stocks.

They shift allocation during market stress.

More suitable for your limited timeframe.

Choose actively managed equity funds.

Key Areas for Your SIP Investment
You should invest across three types of funds:

Large-cap for stability

Hybrid for balance

Flexi-cap or Multi-cap for growth

Avoid small-cap or sector funds at this stage.

Focus on consistency and fund manager quality.

Choose funds with 5+ years stable record.

SIPs should reflect your goals and risk level.

Use family MFD with CFP to create a roadmap.

Suggested Diversification of Rs. 20,000 SIP
Your Rs. 20,000 SIP should be split across:

1. Large Cap Funds (Rs. 4,000)

These are less volatile.

Ideal for short-term goals.

Focused on top 100 companies.

2. Large & Mid Cap Funds (Rs. 3,000)

Balanced exposure to safety and moderate growth.

Slightly higher return potential than large caps.

3. Flexi Cap Funds (Rs. 4,000)

Gives freedom to the manager.

Can switch between large, mid, and small.

Good for long-term returns.

4. Aggressive Hybrid Funds (Rs. 3,000)

Blend of equity and debt.

Safer than pure equity.

Suitable for your age.

5. Equity Savings Funds (Rs. 2,000)

Conservative equity product.

Combines equity, arbitrage, and debt.

Lower risk. Regular income.

6. Balanced Advantage Funds (Rs. 4,000)

Dynamic mix of equity and debt.

Adjusts to market conditions.

Helps control downside risk.

Rs. 5,000 Monthly for Shares – Caution Needed
Direct stock investment needs research.

Avoid random stock tips or YouTube advice.

Start with only 1 or 2 good quality stocks.

Choose only if you understand business.

Otherwise, prefer mutual fund route.

Stocks can be highly volatile in short term.

For 5 years, stability is more important.

Build stock exposure slowly if confident.

Important Tips Before You Start
Always keep emergency fund aside.

Minimum 6 months of expenses in FD or SB.

Don’t disturb mutual funds for emergencies.

If you have insurance-cum-investment products:

ULIP or traditional LIC

Consider surrendering them after review.

Reinvest into mutual funds.

Pure term insurance + MF is better.

Taxation of Mutual Fund Returns – Know This
Equity Funds

Profits after 1 year are LTCG.

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term (before 1 year) gains taxed at 20%.

Debt Funds / Hybrid with

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Money
I am planning to invest 3 lakhs per month for next 3 years (1.5 lakhs in my name and 1.5 lakhs in my wife name), I am planning to go with flexi , mid and small cap with equal investment amount for all 3. Is it good idea. My risk acceptance is from high to medium. Also suggest me which mutual funds would be better
Ans: You are planning Rs.3 lakhs per month. That’s Rs.1.5 lakhs in your name and Rs.1.5 lakhs in your wife’s name. This monthly commitment for the next 3 years is solid. It shows strong savings discipline. You deserve appreciation for taking this big step.

But, to create real wealth, how and where you invest matters more than how much you invest. Your current idea of splitting into flexi cap, mid cap and small cap equally must be properly assessed.

As a Certified Financial Planner, let’s walk through a detailed 360-degree analysis of your plan. This will cover risk, allocation, structure, fund selection, and tax aspects.

Your Portfolio Idea at a Glance

You have chosen three equity categories:

Flexi cap

Mid cap

Small cap

And you plan to split the monthly Rs.3 lakhs equally:

Rs.1 lakh to each category

For 36 months (3 years)

You mentioned your risk level is between high and medium.

Now we’ll assess if this mix supports your goals and risk profile.

Understanding the Nature of Each Fund Category

Let’s understand how these categories behave. That will help shape better allocation.

Flexi Cap Funds:

Can invest in large, mid, and small caps.

Offer flexibility based on market conditions.

Tend to carry moderate risk.

Suitable for medium to long term.

Good core holding in any portfolio.

Mid Cap Funds:

Invest in mid-sized companies.

Can offer high growth.

But volatility is more than flexi caps.

Suited for long-term investors only.

Carry moderate to high risk.

Small Cap Funds:

Invest in smaller companies.

Very high growth potential.

But very volatile and risky.

Return may take 7 to 10 years to stabilise.

Not ideal for investors with only 3 to 5 year horizon.

How Your Current Plan Matches with Risk and Tenure

You are planning this investment for 3 years. You have medium to high risk appetite.

But small cap funds require 7 to 10 years. Mid cap needs at least 5 years. Flexi cap can work well from 3 years onwards.

So, a strict 33% allocation in each of the three is not ideal for you. It adds unnecessary risk in a short-term plan. Small caps, in particular, don’t suit your 3-year goal.

This could result in:

High volatility

Poor returns at the end of 3 years

Difficulty in redeeming without losses

Better Strategy Based on Your Situation

Here’s a more stable and practical approach:

Flexi Cap Funds: 50%

Mid Cap Funds: 30%

Small Cap Funds: 20%

This balances the return and risk better. You still get growth exposure without excessive stress. This structure fits your medium-to-high risk level and 3-year investment horizon.

If your investment plan extends beyond 3 years, say 7 to 10 years, then small cap can be increased. But for now, keep it moderate.

The Importance of Active Fund Management

You didn’t mention direct or regular fund choice. So let’s address that.

If you are considering direct funds, please note the following issues:

You get no help on portfolio review.

You may miss better-performing funds.

There is no support during volatility.

Fund underperformance may go unnoticed.

Tax planning becomes harder.

In contrast, investing through regular plans with a Certified Financial Planner ensures:

Professional fund selection

Periodic review and rebalancing

Guidance during volatile periods

Tax-efficient redemption

Goal-aligned asset allocation

This is critical when investing Rs.1 crore+ over 3 years.

Why Actively Managed Funds Are Better Than Index Funds

You did not mention index funds, but it’s important to clarify.

Some people wrongly suggest index funds for all investors. But there are key disadvantages:

Index funds blindly copy the index.

No control over bad or overvalued stocks.

No downside protection.

Same stocks are repeated in multiple funds.

Not aligned with investor’s risk profile.

In contrast, actively managed funds offer:

Professional research and stock selection

Ability to avoid poor performing sectors

Better performance in volatile markets

Focus on long-term winners

For serious wealth creation, active management is essential.

Include Some Debt for Safety and Balance

Your current plan has no debt component. This increases short-term risk.

Even with high risk tolerance, some debt helps by:

Providing liquidity during emergencies

Reducing portfolio volatility

Giving funds to buy equity during dips

Creating peace of mind

You can consider:

Short-term debt funds

Dynamic bond funds

Conservative hybrid funds

Aim for 20% to 25% allocation in debt. That means about Rs.60,000 to Rs.75,000 per month.

You can adjust your equity exposure accordingly. That still keeps Rs.2.25 lakhs to Rs.2.4 lakhs per month in equity.

Should Your Wife Invest Separately or Jointly?

You are investing Rs.1.5 lakhs each in your name and your wife’s name.

This is smart from a tax and planning angle. Keep her portfolio aligned with same asset allocation. Don’t treat her plan as separate. Instead, treat both portfolios as one unit.

Benefits of this approach:

Joint planning helps in asset allocation.

Easier to track overall progress.

Better tax optimisation.

Funds can be rebalanced between both when needed.

But make sure she is comfortable with the plan. Keep her informed and involved.

Tax Planning for Equity Mutual Funds

Latest mutual fund tax rules:

LTCG on equity funds above Rs.1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%.

So, if you redeem within 3 years, you pay 20% tax on profits.

This affects small and mid cap gains more because of short-term nature.

That’s another reason to avoid high allocation to small cap now. Keep most of your investments in long-term suitable funds like flexi cap and mid cap.

Emergency Fund Should Be Separate

Don’t mix long-term investment with emergency needs. Keep 6 months of expenses in liquid funds.

This avoids selling equity funds during market falls. It gives you breathing space if needed.

Without this, you may panic and redeem your funds early. That causes loss of returns and peace.

Have You Considered Goal Planning?

You didn’t mention any specific goal. But it helps to define goals clearly.

You can consider:

Retirement planning

Child’s education or marriage

House purchase

Business expansion

Financial freedom

Each goal has a different time horizon. That affects fund selection and asset allocation. A Certified Financial Planner will help match funds to goals.

Why Reviewing Portfolio Annually Is Necessary

Don’t just invest and forget. Your Rs.1.08 crore planned investment (Rs.3 lakhs × 36 months) needs annual check.

Every year:

Review performance of all funds.

Remove consistent underperformers.

Rebalance equity and debt.

Adjust allocation based on market condition.

You may not have time or tools to do this. Hence, a Certified Financial Planner is essential here.

Avoid Over-Diversification

You don’t need 10 funds. Limit to 4 to 5 good ones.

One fund from each category is enough. This avoids overlap and makes tracking easier.

Too many funds:

Create confusion

Repeat same stocks

Don’t improve returns

Make review harder

ULIP, LIC, or Endowment Policies?

If you hold any LIC, ULIP or investment-cum-insurance policies, please check their IRR.

Most give low returns (around 3% to 5%). If you find them underperforming:

Consider surrendering them after lock-in.

Reinvest in mutual funds.

Separate insurance and investment for better results.

Investment Discipline is the Final Secret

Even best funds won’t work if you break your discipline.

Follow these steps:

Stick to monthly SIPs.

Don’t panic in market correction.

Avoid frequent fund switching.

Trust the plan created by a Certified Financial Planner.

Focus on long-term growth, not short-term gain.

Discipline will make your investment journey stress-free and successful.

Finally

You are doing great by committing Rs.3 lakhs monthly.

Your sector selection is fair but needs restructuring.

Limit small cap to 20%. Focus more on flexi and mid cap.

Add debt component to reduce stress.

Avoid direct funds. Go through a Certified Financial Planner.

Stay away from index funds. Use active funds for better performance.

Keep your wife’s investment aligned with yours.

Don’t skip emergency fund.

Review yearly with professional help.

Avoid overlapping funds.

Exit low-return insurance policies if any.

This approach ensures long-term wealth and emotional comfort. You don’t just need growth, you need safe growth.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 25, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sir I am 44 year old having EPF 32 lakh FD 34 lakh Mutual fund with SIP 70k amount 17 lakh one 3 bhk flat at Zirakpur(chandigarh) NPS 7 lakh .... Where should I have to invest now
Ans: Your savings journey reflects discipline and consistency. At 44, you are at a crucial phase where wealth protection is as important as wealth creation. Let's assess your current status and guide you toward smart next steps.

Existing Portfolio Assessment
Let us first understand how your portfolio stands:

EPF (Rs 32 lakhs)
This is a solid retirement base. EPF gives safe, tax-free growth. Continue contributing till retirement.

FD (Rs 34 lakhs)
It gives stability but low returns. Interest is taxable. Useful for emergencies or short-term goals, not ideal for long-term growth.

Mutual Fund (SIP Rs 70,000, total value Rs 17 lakhs)
This shows good investment habit. You have strong equity exposure through mutual funds, which helps in beating inflation.

NPS (Rs 7 lakhs)
Good for long-term retirement planning. Tax efficient. Conservative and disciplined by structure.

Flat in Zirakpur
While not treated here as an investment, it adds to your asset base. But no income or liquidity advantage unless rented or sold.

Now let’s move to the core: Where should you invest from now?

Wealth Creation Strategy Ahead
You have a good foundation. Next steps should ensure your money grows efficiently.

1. Reallocate from FD to Better Instruments
FD is earning low post-tax returns.

Move part of it (Rs 15-20 lakhs) to diversified mutual funds.

Choose actively managed funds. Avoid index funds.

SIP mode is best, but for lumpsum, use STP from a liquid fund.

Why not FD?
FD gives fixed returns but taxable. Over time, inflation eats into it.

2. Review Your Mutual Fund Structure
You invest Rs 70,000 per month. That’s powerful. But too many direct mutual funds or schemes can confuse.

Stick to 4-5 actively managed funds across different categories.

If you are investing in direct plans, reconsider.
Direct funds offer no advisory support. If markets fall, you may panic and exit.

Invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) who is also a CFP.
You get guidance, goal alignment, and peace of mind.

Why avoid index funds?
Index funds blindly copy the market. They don’t protect during market fall.
Actively managed funds by good fund managers do better in most Indian cycles.

3. NPS – Let it Continue
NPS gives long-term stability.

But don’t overdepend on it.

It forces annuity after 60.
That restricts flexibility in retirement.

Continue your NPS for tax savings and base corpus. But combine with mutual funds for freedom.

4. Build Emergency Fund (If Not Done)
Keep 6 months’ expenses as liquid cash.

Use liquid funds or sweep FDs.

This avoids breaking SIPs during emergencies.

5. Insurance Audit (If Not Already)
Do you have a term insurance?
If not, get Rs 1.5 Cr cover till 60-65 years.

Avoid ULIPs or endowment policies.
If you have any, surrender and reinvest in mutual funds.

Goal Planning – What’s Next?
Now let’s break the upcoming milestones:

A. Retirement – 55 or 60?
You already have:

EPF: Rs 32 lakhs

NPS: Rs 7 lakhs

MF: Rs 17 lakhs (and growing)

FD: Rs 34 lakhs

Continue investing Rs 70,000 monthly in mutual funds. Increase by 5-10% yearly.

With this, and your current savings, you can build Rs 4-5 Cr retirement corpus. That’s enough for a simple and secure life post-retirement.

B. Child’s Education / Marriage
Assuming she is around 10-15 years old now.

You will need Rs 30-50 lakhs in 8-10 years.

Create a separate mutual fund SIP for this goal.

Allocate Rs 20,000 monthly only for this purpose.

This keeps your goals separate and trackable.

C. House Maintenance / Upgrades
Avoid buying another real estate now.

It is illiquid, risky, and difficult to exit.

Focus on financial assets instead.

If you ever want to shift or upgrade, liquid mutual funds will help.

Final Insights
FD and EPF make your portfolio conservative.

Mutual funds bring growth. Continue SIPs and increase slowly.

Avoid direct and index funds. Use an MFD-CFP for guided investments.

Keep goals separate. Track education, retirement, and contingency funds distinctly.

Don't let past good performance make you lazy. Regular reviews are important.

If market falls, don’t stop SIPs. Stick to the plan.

Avoid buying more real estate. Keep liquidity as priority.

You are already ahead of many investors at 44. Keep it disciplined. Keep it simple. Keep it goal-linked.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9472 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2025Hindi
Money
Currently, I am investing in MF as below with XIRR 17.58% Mirae Asset Large & Midcap Fund Direct Growth Rs 2000 Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund Direct Growth Rs 4000 ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund Direct Growth Rs 4000 Canara Robeco ELSS Tax Saver Direct Growth Rs 4000 Canara Robeco Large Cap Fund Direct Growth Rs 2000 Quant Active Fund Direct Growth Rs 5000 Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund Direct Growth Rs 2000 Please suggest if any change is required. I am looking for retirement fund with minimum 4 CR and looking for my child education 2 CR.
Ans: Your Financial Goals

Retirement fund target: Rs 4 Crores

Child’s education fund target: Rs 2 Crores

You have not mentioned the time horizon for both.

For now, we will assume:

Retirement goal – 15 to 20 years away

Education goal – around 10 to 12 years away

These are long-term goals and require consistent and strategic equity exposure.

Current SIP Portfolio Review

Let’s assess your current monthly SIP of Rs 25,000:

Mirae Asset Large & Midcap – Rs 2,000
This category balances stability and growth. Keep allocation minimal.

Mirae Asset ELSS – Rs 4,000
ELSS funds have 3-year lock-in. Useful only if you need tax benefit.
Avoid more than one ELSS fund.

ICICI Equity & Debt Fund – Rs 4,000
Hybrid funds reduce volatility. But not ideal for aggressive long-term growth.

Canara Robeco ELSS – Rs 4,000
You already have one ELSS. Two ELSS schemes dilute focus.

Canara Robeco Large Cap – Rs 2,000
Large caps give stability. Allocation is fine.

Quant Active – Rs 5,000
High-risk, high-return style. Can keep limited exposure.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap – Rs 2,000
Well-managed diversified fund. Suitable for long-term.

Key Observations and Suggestions

Too Many Funds
Seven funds for Rs 25,000 monthly is excessive.
It spreads your money too thin.
Each fund needs minimum size to show results.

Duplicate Categories
Two ELSS funds. Avoid duplication.
If tax saving is not your aim, ELSS is unnecessary.

Overuse of Direct Funds
Direct funds may look cheaper.
But they offer no human support during market crashes.
Investors make emotional exits at wrong times.
Regular funds via Certified Financial Planner and MFD provide personalised support.
Direct fund route is risky for goal-based investing without expert review.

Avoid Index or ETF Investing
Index funds just copy the index.
They cannot outperform.
During correction phases, they fall more and recover slower.
Active funds are better. Fund managers can protect and grow your money.
ETFs are just index funds traded like shares.
They offer no advisory support and involve price volatility.

Recommended Portfolio Restructure

Here is a simplified suggestion:

One Flexicap Fund (for core long-term growth)

One Midcap Fund (for long-term wealth creation)

One Hybrid Aggressive Fund (to reduce volatility in short-term)

Optional: One ELSS Fund (only if you need Sec 80C deduction)

This way, you manage risk and get better returns with less complexity.

How to Allocate Your SIPs Wisely

Flexicap Fund – Rs 10,000

Midcap Fund – Rs 7,000

Hybrid Aggressive Fund – Rs 5,000

ELSS Fund – Rs 3,000 (only if required for tax)

This structure gives direction, clarity and growth focus.

Review Your Fund Performance Periodically

Don’t judge a fund by 1-year returns

See rolling performance across 3, 5 and 7 years

Check fund house stability, manager consistency

Avoid switching funds too frequently

Are Your SIPs Enough for Your Goals?

For Rs 2 Cr education fund in 12 years, you need focused allocation

For Rs 4 Cr retirement in 20 years, SIPs need to grow gradually

Current SIP of Rs 25,000/month may not be enough for both

You may need to increase it by 10% every year

As income grows, increase SIPs. Also do lumpsum whenever possible.
Track the gap between required and actual corpus annually.

Secure Your Child’s Future Better

You already have SIPs and term insurance.

Add a dedicated child fund (not child ULIP or plan from insurer)

Choose pure mutual funds.

Invest regularly. Track goals yearly.

Avoid gold ETF for child’s future. It doesn’t match education cost inflation.

About Your Term Insurance

You didn’t mention coverage amount

For Rs 6 Cr of goals, ideal cover is 12 to 15 times your income

Keep your term cover separate from investment

Review the policy every 3 to 5 years

Final Insights

Restructure funds. Avoid duplication and unnecessary direct funds

Use actively managed regular funds via CFP and MFD

Build child’s education corpus with discipline

Retirement corpus target is realistic. Increase SIPs gradually

Track fund performance every 6 months.

Do not mix insurance with investment.

Avoid ETF and Index Funds for wealth building

Maintain asset allocation. Review annually

Keep emergency fund in liquid fund or short-term plan

What You Can Do Next

Consolidate your funds

Consult a Certified Financial Planner to create a personalised goal tracker

Shift to a guided MFD platform that gives you regular review

Reinvest ELSS redemption amount after 3 years in the new structure

Ensure you have health insurance too – not mentioned above

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

...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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