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Shekhar

Shekhar Kumar  |154 Answers  |Ask -

Leadership, HR Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

Shekhar Kumar is senior manager, talent acquisition, at the Shri Venkateshwara University in Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh. He has 18 years of expertise in the search and placement of executive leadership talent across various industries.
He has also mentored middle and senior management professionals for leadership positions and guided them in career development.
Shekhar has a bachelor's degree in business management from Magadh University, Bihar, and a master's degree in human resource management from Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu.... more
Mary Question by Mary on Apr 20, 2024Hindi
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Career

I am a second year mechanical engineering student ,wanted to do any certification courses along with my degree...can you suggest a certification course for mechanical engineering students?

Ans: Certainly! Pursuing certification courses alongside your mechanical engineering degree can enhance your skills and increase your employability. Courses in computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software are highly valuable for mechanical engineers. Certifications in software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS, or Siemens NX can improve your proficiency in design, analysis, and manufacturing processes. Project management skills are essential for engineering professionals, especially those involved in planning and executing projects. Certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or PRINCE2 can provide you with the knowledge and techniques needed to effectively manage engineering projects. Six Sigma is a methodology aimed at improving processes by reducing defects and variation. Obtaining a Six Sigma certification, such as Green Belt or Black Belt, demonstrates your proficiency in process improvement techniques, which can be beneficial for a career in manufacturing, quality assurance, or operations management. FEA is a numerical technique used to analyze the behavior of structures and mechanical components under various loading conditions. A certification course in FEA, focusing on software like ANSYS, Abaqus, or MSC Nastran, can enhance your analytical skills and understanding of structural mechanics. Courses focusing on manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, casting, or additive manufacturing (3D printing) can provide you with hands-on experience and knowledge of different manufacturing techniques used in industry. Industry 4.0 encompasses technologies like IoT, AI, robotics, and data analytics applied to manufacturing processes. Courses or certifications focusing on these emerging technologies can give you a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving field of smart manufacturing.

But before enrolling in any certification course, consider your career goals, interests, and the specific skills you want to develop. Also, research the credibility of the certification provider and the relevance of the course content to ensure it aligns with your aspirations and adds value to your mechanical engineering education.
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Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Dec 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2024Hindi
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I’m 38, female, working as a business consultant in Pune. After having two kids, I am struggling with post-pregnancy weight and loose skin around my abdomen. I’ve tried everything from dieting to exercise, but the stubborn fat and loose skin just won’t budge. I’ve been considering liposuction or a tummy tuck. Do you think it will help? Could you please explain the risks and benefits of both liposuction and a tummy tuck? How do these two procedures compare in terms of results and recovery time? I want to understand the procedure and risk involved before making a decision.
Ans: Your problem is same as with lakhs of women who are proud mothers. Loose tummy skin with stretch marks along with some bulge in the abdomen is due to the extra skin of the pregnancy which has not shrunk back due to lack of elasticity. Also, the muscles of the abdomen (the abs) become loose due to the stretch during pregnancy.
Unfortunately, these problems cannot be bettered significantly by any non surgical methods because they are mechanical problems.
Weight loss and exercises can make the flab thin but cannot shrink the skin.
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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7213 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Money
Planning to start an SIP of 15K with HSBC Multicap fund Regular growth. Is it a gooddecision?
Ans: Starting an SIP of Rs 15,000 monthly is a disciplined investment step. The choice of a multicap fund reflects a willingness to diversify. Let's analyse this decision comprehensively.

Multicap Funds: Key Features
Diversified Portfolio: Multicap funds invest across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. This balances growth potential and stability.

Flexibility: Fund managers can dynamically adjust allocations across market segments based on market trends.

Long-Term Potential: Multicap funds aim for consistent returns over 7–10 years or longer.

Risk Factor: Multicap funds carry higher risk compared to pure large-cap funds. They are not suitable for short-term goals.

Evaluating Regular Growth Option
Reinvestment Advantage: The regular growth option helps in reinvesting gains for compounding over time.

No Payouts: Unlike dividend options, there are no regular payouts, which suits long-term wealth creation.

Tax Efficiency: Growth options are more tax-efficient as gains are realised only on redemption.

Benefits of Investing Through a Certified Financial Planner
Expert Guidance: A Certified Financial Planner ensures your fund aligns with your risk tolerance and goals.

Portfolio Monitoring: They help monitor and rebalance the portfolio periodically.

Benefits of Regular Plans: Investing through regular plans gives access to expert advice without additional effort.

Alternatives to Consider
While multicap funds are good, actively managed equity funds may also suit your needs.

Mid-Cap Funds: Offer higher growth potential but with greater risk. Suitable if your risk appetite is high.

Hybrid Funds: Provide a balanced mix of equity and debt, reducing volatility.

Diversified International Funds: Offer exposure to global markets and hedge against domestic market risks.

Key Considerations Before Investing
Investment Horizon: Multicap funds are ideal for long-term goals of 7+ years.

Risk Tolerance: These funds involve exposure to mid- and small-cap stocks, which are volatile.

Review Fund Performance: Assess the fund's past performance over 5–10 years. Look for consistent returns and robust fund management.

SIP as a Long-Term Strategy: SIPs mitigate market volatility by averaging the cost of investments over time.

Rebalancing Your Overall Portfolio
If this SIP is part of a larger portfolio, ensure it complements your existing asset allocation.

Equity-Debt Mix: Maintain a balance between equity and fixed-income investments based on your age and risk profile.

Diversify Across Fund Categories: Avoid overexposure to one type of fund or sector.

Emergency Fund First: Ensure your emergency fund is sufficient before committing to long-term SIPs.

Tax Implications
Equity Funds: Gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5% (LTCG). Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Regular Portfolio Reviews: Assess gains periodically and plan redemptions to minimise tax liability.

Steps to Enhance Returns
Increase SIP Amounts Over Time: Increase SIP contributions with salary hikes or surplus cash inflow.

Avoid Redeeming Early: Stay invested for the long term to allow compounding to work effectively.

Use STP for Lump Sum Investments: If you have additional funds, consider a Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) to mitigate timing risks.

Final Insights
Starting an SIP in a multicap fund is a promising move for long-term wealth creation. Ensure this investment aligns with your goals and complements your existing portfolio. Regularly review performance and rebalance when needed. Work with a Certified Financial Planner for ongoing advice and insights.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7213 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 01, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 40, a single parent with 2 daughters aged 2 and 1. I have following assets that i have accumulated over my employment 1. 1.6 Cr in Indian equity 2. 60L in indian MFs 3. 2 Cr in EPF 4. 72L in PPF 5. 12L in NPS 6. 51 L in SGBs 7. 72L in Gold/diamond jewellery 8. 5Cr in company stocks. These are from the 2 employers i have worked for, almost equally distributed and are mostly vested (trading publicly) 9. Real estate - 3 houses worth 8.7 Cr. Primary house is 6 Cr 10. I have 4 term insurance schemed running, in around 7 years, they will start generating an average income of 60L annually till 2043 11. 60L in Bank/FDs 12. 8L in SSYs for girls While i feel i am doing well, at times with hugely inflation in medical and education fees, i feel its just so hard to estimate what will i need to plan for when my children are ready to go to college in 16 odd years. I keep on hearing mind boggling college fees from my friends, so an approx assessment of education corpus will help. Also i feel keeping equity in single stock as in case with my 2 employers is highly risky, so any suggestion on how to systematically withdraw and invest elsewhere will help. Also looking at my portfolio, do you have any rebalancing advice. I am planning to work as long as possible so have another 18 to 20 years of work life left but given the volatile job market nowadays, want to be mentally and financially prepared
Ans: The cost of education, especially higher education, has been rising significantly. Assuming a 16-year horizon for your daughters, we need to estimate the corpus required for both domestic and international education.

Domestic Education Costs: Presently, premier institutions in India charge around Rs 25–50 lakh for undergraduate courses. Factoring an annual inflation of 8–10%, this amount may grow to Rs 1.5–2 crore per child for a 4-year course.

International Education Costs: For studies abroad, current fees range between Rs 1–2 crore for undergraduate programs. Adjusted for inflation, this could increase to Rs 3–5 crore per child in 16 years.

Considering both scenarios, you should aim for a total education corpus of Rs 6–8 crore. This amount provides flexibility for either domestic or international options.

Recommendations for Your Employer Stock Holdings
Your company stocks form a significant portion of your portfolio (Rs 5 crore). Holding large amounts in single stocks increases risk. Here's how to diversify systematically:

Gradual Divestment Plan: Avoid selling all shares at once. Instead, divest 10–15% annually over the next 5–7 years.

Reinvest in Diversified Assets: Allocate the proceeds into actively managed equity mutual funds, fixed-income instruments, and sovereign gold bonds. This ensures diversification across asset classes.

Tax Considerations: Plan divestment to optimise tax liabilities. Gains from these stocks may be subject to long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax at 12.5% after Rs 1.25 lakh.

Portfolio Rebalancing Advice
Your portfolio shows strong accumulation across multiple asset classes. However, rebalancing is necessary to manage risks and align with goals.

Asset Allocation Overview
Equity Investments:

You have Rs 1.6 crore in Indian equities and Rs 60 lakh in mutual funds. Including Rs 5 crore in employer stocks, equity dominates your portfolio.
Gradually reduce exposure to individual stocks and shift to actively managed equity mutual funds.
Fixed Income Investments:

Your EPF (Rs 2 crore), PPF (Rs 72 lakh), and NPS (Rs 12 lakh) provide stable, low-risk returns.
Keep these investments as a core part of your portfolio to ensure stability.
Precious Metals:

You have Rs 72 lakh in gold/diamond jewellery and Rs 51 lakh in sovereign gold bonds.
Jewellery has sentimental value but does not generate returns. Focus on financial gold like SGBs.
Real Estate:

Your real estate portfolio (Rs 8.7 crore) is substantial, with Rs 6 crore in your primary home.
Avoid adding further real estate investments due to low liquidity and high maintenance costs.
Cash and Bank Deposits:

Rs 60 lakh in FDs and Rs 8 lakh in SSYs are good for short-term needs and children's savings.
Suggested Reallocation Strategy
Increase Mutual Fund Investments:

Channel proceeds from employer stocks into equity mutual funds. Use SIPs or STPs for a gradual investment approach.
Actively managed mutual funds offer better returns and professional management.
Diversify into Balanced Assets:

Allocate a portion of your equity proceeds into balanced advantage or hybrid mutual funds.
These funds reduce risk and provide moderate growth.
Build an International Equity Portfolio:

Explore international equity funds to benefit from global diversification.
Strengthen Fixed Income Investments:

Invest in high-quality corporate bonds or debt mutual funds for additional stability.
Emergency Fund Allocation:

Ensure you have at least Rs 30–50 lakh as an emergency fund in liquid instruments like ultra-short-term debt funds.
Optimise SSY Contributions:

Continue annual contributions to the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) for tax-free growth.
Planning for Income Stability
You plan to work for 18–20 more years, but the volatile job market can be unpredictable.

Term Insurance Payouts:

In 7 years, your term plans will generate Rs 60 lakh annually till 2043.
Use these payouts to fund living expenses and reinvest the surplus for long-term goals.
Passive Income Generation:

Consider creating a passive income stream through investments in dividend-paying mutual funds.
Avoid single stocks for dividends as they are riskier compared to mutual funds.
Retirement Corpus Growth:

Your EPF and PPF are excellent retirement tools. Avoid withdrawals to maximise compounding benefits.
Additional Financial Goals
Healthcare Planning:

Rising medical costs make comprehensive health insurance essential.
Ensure sufficient health coverage for yourself and your daughters.
Estate Planning:

Create a will to safeguard your assets for your daughters.
Consider setting up a trust for seamless asset transfer.
Tax-Efficient Withdrawals:

Use tax-saving strategies while withdrawing from investments. Consult a Certified Financial Planner for guidance.
Some Final Insights
Your portfolio is well-diversified across asset classes, but equity exposure to single stocks poses risks.
Focus on systematically reallocating from employer stocks to actively managed mutual funds.
Aim for a robust education corpus of Rs 6–8 crore to meet your daughters' future needs.
Strengthen your financial plan with proper healthcare coverage and estate planning.
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure alignment with goals.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7213 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 27, 2024Hindi
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Money
I am 62 and planning to retire. I have a corpus of 1.25 crore and need around Rs 75000 every month for expenses. What are the various avenues where I can invest and would fetch me the desired amount?
Ans: Retirement planning is crucial, especially when the goal is financial independence. Your corpus of Rs 1.25 crore and monthly need of Rs 75,000 require careful investment. The objective is to ensure the corpus lasts while meeting your expenses. Diversifying investments and balancing returns with risks is essential.

1. Emergency Fund Allocation

Allocate Rs 10 lakh to an emergency fund.
Invest this in liquid funds or high-interest savings accounts.
Ensure funds are accessible during emergencies.
2. Monthly Income Requirement Analysis

Your monthly need is Rs 75,000, or Rs 9 lakh annually.
This is around 7.2% of your total corpus.
Investments must generate this return without eroding the principal.
3. Systematic Withdrawal Through Debt Mutual Funds

Debt mutual funds provide stability and moderate returns.
They suit investors seeking steady cash flow.
Withdraw monthly using a systematic withdrawal plan.
Taxation Perspective

Gains from debt funds are taxed per your income slab.
Plan withdrawals efficiently to minimise tax.
4. Balanced Funds for Growth and Stability

Balanced funds invest in both equity and debt.
These offer potential growth and regular income.
They reduce risk while ensuring inflation-beating returns.
Why Avoid Index Funds?

Index funds lack flexibility in stock selection.
Actively managed funds provide better downside protection.
Fund managers can outperform during market fluctuations.
5. Actively Managed Equity Mutual Funds for Growth

Equity mutual funds can provide higher returns over time.
Opt for diversified funds managed by experienced professionals.
Use regular plans through mutual fund distributors with CFP credentials.
Why Choose Regular Funds?

Certified financial planners offer valuable guidance.
They assist in selecting funds tailored to your goals.
Direct funds lack this personalised support and expertise.
6. Fixed Income Options for Stability

Invest a portion in fixed deposits with reliable banks.
Senior Citizen Savings Schemes (SCSS) offer regular income.
Explore RBI floating-rate bonds for assured returns.
Benefits of Fixed Income Options

Low risk ensures stability.
These options supplement your core investment strategy.
7. Diversified Investment Portfolio

Allocate across equity, debt, and fixed income.
Diversification reduces risks and maximises returns.
Maintain liquidity for unplanned expenses.
8. Inflation Protection

Inflation erodes purchasing power over time.
Allocate 40–50% of your corpus to equity for growth.
Adjust allocations annually to maintain balance.
9. Periodic Portfolio Review

Review your investments every six months.
Adjust based on market conditions and life changes.
A Certified Financial Planner can guide these reviews.
10. Avoid Insurance-Cum-Investment Plans

If holding LIC or ULIP, consider surrendering them.
Reinvest proceeds into mutual funds for better growth.
Separate insurance and investment for clarity.
11. Health Insurance

Comprehensive health insurance is critical in retirement.
Avoid relying on savings for medical emergencies.
Ensure coverage meets inflation-adjusted medical costs.
12. Tax Planning and Efficiency

Structure investments to minimise tax outgo.
Utilise senior citizen exemptions and deductions wisely.
Keep track of the latest tax rules for financial decisions.
13. Creating a Will

Draft a clear and legally valid will.
Specify asset distribution to avoid future disputes.
Periodically update it as per life events.
Final Insights

Retirement planning is about ensuring financial independence and peace of mind. A diversified investment portfolio is key to balancing returns and stability. With disciplined management and regular reviews, your corpus can sustain your needs throughout retirement.

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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