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Should I choose IIIT Sri City CSE or IIT Varanasi Architecture?

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |3997 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 04, 2024

Nayagam is a certified career counsellor and the founder of EduJob360.
He started his career as an HR professional and has over 10 years of experience in tutoring and mentoring students from Classes 8 to 12, helping them choose the right stream, course and college/university.
He also counsels students on how to prepare for entrance exams for getting admission into reputed universities /colleges for their graduate/postgraduate courses.
He has guided both fresh graduates and experienced professionals on how to write a resume, how to prepare for job interviews and how to negotiate their salary when joining a new job.
Nayagam has published an eBook, Professional Resume Writing Without Googling.
He has a postgraduate degree in human resources from Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Delhi, a postgraduate diploma in labour law from Madras University, a postgraduate diploma in school counselling from Symbiosis, Pune, and a certification in child psychology from Counsel India.
He has also completed his master’s degree in career counselling from ICCC-Mindler and Counsel, India.
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Asked by Anonymous - Jul 04, 2024Hindi
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Sir iiit sri city cse or iit varanasi architecture??

Ans: Just spend 2-3 minutes and think whether you are more interested in Architecture-Design or Computer Science? Decide accordingly and whichever domain you finalise and join, keep upgrading your skills. All the BEST for Your Bright Future.

To know more on ‘ Careers | Education | Jobs’, ask / Follow Us here in RediffGURUS.
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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Money
I have 20 lakhs in my account and a house in my name. At present I am not earning. I have taken SBI Life smart wealth builder with installment of 1Lakh, for 12 years and premium payment term of 7 years. Applicable tax rate is 18%. I have paid the premium for 2 years so far. I also invested in MF and taken a health insurance. I am thinking if it would be wise to continue with the SBI life. If I close SBI life and invest that in MF will it be beneficial for me? I have taken a break from my career due to health issues, and planning to continue with my job soon with an expected income of 40-50k. I am 50 years old. I need to take care of my son's (18 years) higher studies and plan for my retirement.
Ans: You have Rs. 20 lakhs in your bank account and own a house. At present, you are not earning, but you plan to restart your career soon with an expected income of Rs. 40,000–50,000 monthly.

Your key financial priorities include:

Funding your son’s higher education (he is 18 years old).

Planning for your retirement at age 50.

You hold an SBI Life Smart Wealth Builder policy with a yearly premium of Rs. 1 lakh. You have paid for 2 years, with a premium payment term of 7 years and a policy term of 12 years.

You also have mutual funds and health insurance in place. This is commendable as it shows thoughtful financial planning.

Let us evaluate whether to continue with the SBI Life policy or switch to mutual funds.

Understanding SBI Life Smart Wealth Builder
SBI Life Smart Wealth Builder is a unit-linked insurance plan (ULIP).

It combines insurance and investment but tends to underperform compared to standalone investments.

ULIPs have higher charges like mortality fees, premium allocation, and administration charges.

These charges eat into your returns, especially in the initial years.

Tax deductions under Section 80C are available, but only premiums within 10% of the sum assured qualify.

Disadvantages of Continuing SBI Life
The fund returns in ULIPs are generally lower than mutual funds.

High charges reduce your corpus growth potential.

You already have health insurance, which is essential.

Buying a standalone term insurance plan separately is more cost-effective than ULIPs.

Benefits of Switching to Mutual Funds
Mutual funds offer flexibility with no lock-in beyond ELSS funds (3 years).

They provide higher returns than ULIPs over long-term horizons like 10–15 years.

Actively managed funds allow diversification across equity, debt, and hybrid categories.

You can adjust your portfolio based on changing goals, such as education or retirement.

Tax Implications of Surrendering SBI Life
ULIP surrender after 5 years is tax-free.

If surrendered within 5 years, the tax benefits claimed earlier may need to be reversed.

The amount withdrawn could be added to your taxable income.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner to manage these tax implications effectively.

Steps to Execute the Switch
Step 1: Surrender the SBI Life Policy
Stop paying further premiums for the SBI Life Smart Wealth Builder policy.

Surrender the policy after understanding any exit penalties and charges.

Step 2: Allocate the Surrendered Amount to Mutual Funds
Diversify the amount into equity mutual funds, debt mutual funds, and hybrid funds.

Choose funds based on your risk appetite and financial goals.

Step 3: Use SIPs for Regular Contributions
Start systematic investment plans (SIPs) for your monthly contributions.

Begin SIPs of Rs. 1 lakh yearly or Rs. 8,000 monthly after surrendering the ULIP.

Investment Plan for Rs. 20 Lakhs
Higher Education Goal
Allocate Rs. 10–12 lakhs to a mix of equity and hybrid mutual funds.

Ensure a significant portion is invested in funds with low to moderate risk.

Use the Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) to move funds to safer options closer to need.

Retirement Planning
Allocate Rs. 8–10 lakhs for long-term growth in diversified equity funds.

Choose funds that align with your risk tolerance and provide inflation-beating returns.

Review your retirement corpus periodically to ensure it meets future needs.

Importance of Diversification
Balance equity and debt to mitigate risks.

Use equity funds for long-term wealth creation.

Use debt funds or fixed-income instruments for stability.

Consider a hybrid fund for a balanced approach between equity and debt.

Tax Considerations for Mutual Funds
Equity mutual funds: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakhs taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds: Gains taxed as per your income tax slab.

Plan withdrawals efficiently to reduce tax outgo.

Key Points for Financial Stability
Build an emergency fund with 6 months of expenses before investing further.

Continue your health insurance policy for financial protection against medical emergencies.

Restart SIPs once your job stabilises to ensure disciplined investing.

Final Insights
Switching from SBI Life Smart Wealth Builder to mutual funds can optimise your financial goals. This strategy offers higher returns, better flexibility, and lower costs. It aligns well with your priorities for your son’s education and your retirement. Evaluate your decisions annually and consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalised advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

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I'm doing Rs 5000 SIP in SBI blue chip fund for last few 5 years . But it has been underperformer for last many quarters. Kindly advise , shall i switch to ICICI large cap or Nippon Large cap which looks stronger from many parameter . Please comment on my Switching Strategy : a) will stop SIP with SBI , but continue the holding. b) will start SIP of that Rs.5000 with Nippon/ICICI whichever you suggest Investment horizon -13 years till retirement
Ans: You have consistently invested in the SBI Blue Chip Fund through a systematic investment plan (SIP) for the past five years. This disciplined approach is commendable and ensures you benefit from rupee-cost averaging. However, you are concerned about its underperformance in recent quarters. Let us evaluate whether switching is the right strategy and how to optimise your investments.

Evaluating SBI Blue Chip Fund
Large-cap funds like SBI Blue Chip Fund invest in established companies with stable returns.

Short-term underperformance is not unusual, as large-cap funds may face temporary sector or stock-specific challenges.

Review the fund’s performance over a five-to-seven-year horizon.

Compare its rolling returns and risk-adjusted returns with peers.

Consider the management strategy and whether there are recent changes in the fund house or team.

Switching Strategy: Key Considerations
Switching to another large-cap fund needs careful evaluation. Here are factors to keep in mind:

Consistency: Assess whether the new fund consistently outperforms over longer timeframes.

Expense Ratio: Opt for funds with a reasonable expense ratio to maximise net returns.

Portfolio Overlap: Ensure minimal portfolio overlap between funds to diversify your holdings.

Exit Load and Taxation: Check for exit load charges and tax implications when redeeming investments.

Investment Horizon: With a 13-year horizon, focus on funds with steady growth potential.

Action Plan for Your SIP
Stopping SIP with SBI Blue Chip Fund
You can stop the Rs. 5,000 SIP in SBI Blue Chip Fund.

Retain your existing investments in the fund for now.

Monitor its performance over the next 1–2 years.

If it improves, you can reconsider restarting your SIP.

Starting SIP with a New Large-Cap Fund
Begin a new Rs. 5,000 SIP in an actively managed large-cap fund.

Choose a fund with consistent long-term returns, strong management, and a diversified portfolio.

Nippon India Large Cap and ICICI Prudential Large Cap Fund are potential options.

Review the fund's portfolio allocation and compare it to SBI Blue Chip.

Why Retain Existing Holdings?
Selling the entire holding could trigger capital gains tax.

Long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Retaining allows your existing corpus to grow and recover if the fund’s performance improves.

Evaluate its performance yearly to make informed decisions.

Balancing the Portfolio
Diversification ensures optimal risk-reward. Here’s how you can balance your portfolio:

Large-Cap Funds: Allocate 40–50% of your portfolio to large-cap funds for stability.

Mid-Cap and Flexi-Cap Funds: Add mid-cap or flexi-cap funds for higher growth potential.

Hybrid Funds: Consider hybrid funds for a balanced approach between equity and debt.

Debt Allocation: Invest 20–30% in debt funds or fixed-income instruments for stability.

Tax Implications
Avoid frequent switches to minimise tax liability.

Redeeming mutual funds too early could reduce compounding benefits.

Use systematic withdrawal plans (SWPs) during retirement for tax-efficient income.

Reviewing Your Investments
Regularly review your portfolio every six months or annually.

Evaluate funds based on performance consistency and market conditions.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice and portfolio optimisation.

Final Insights
Switching SIP from SBI Blue Chip Fund to another large-cap fund can be a strategic move. However, retaining your existing investment allows time for recovery and avoids tax implications. Focus on long-term goals, diversify across asset classes, and periodically monitor your portfolio. With disciplined investments, you are well-positioned for a secure retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 09, 2024Hindi
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I am going to retire soon with retirement fund of 2 Cr along with pension sufficient for me and my spouse. I have own builder flat in Delhi and health coverage. I have one married daughter who is well settled with 2 kids under 5 years. One flat in my building is on sale for 2 Cr. I need advice for investment for 2Cr retirement fund . Should I buy the flat in my building or should I invest 2 Cr in senior citizen saving scheme, post office MIS , fixed deposit in Bank. My spouse of same age is also earning equally.
Ans: You are in a financially strong position with a pension that meets your needs, additional income from your spouse, and no major liabilities. However, careful planning of your Rs. 2 crore retirement fund is essential to maximise growth, ensure liquidity, and meet future requirements. Below is a detailed analysis of your options.

Real Estate as an Investment
Purchasing another flat for Rs. 2 crore in your building may seem appealing for proximity and potential rental income.

However, real estate is illiquid and may not offer consistent returns or easy encashment when needed.

Maintenance costs and the time required to manage tenants can add stress during retirement.

Additionally, property prices in Delhi's saturated market may not appreciate significantly over the next few years.

Instead of locking the entire Rs. 2 crore in real estate, consider more flexible investment options.

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
SCSS offers safety, regular income, and tax benefits under Section 80C.

You and your spouse can each invest Rs. 30 lakhs, totalling Rs. 60 lakhs.

The interest earned is paid quarterly, ensuring a steady cash flow.

However, the lock-in period is five years, extendable by three years.

SCSS is an excellent choice for a portion of your retirement fund, providing predictable returns.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)
POMIS is a safe option offering monthly interest payments.

The maximum individual limit is Rs. 9 lakhs, and Rs. 15 lakhs for joint accounts.

Combined with SCSS, this can create a reliable income stream.

POMIS also has a five-year lock-in, with limited liquidity.

Fixed Deposits (FDs) in Banks
Bank FDs are simple and secure investments.

You can ladder your FDs across different maturities for liquidity.

Choose senior citizen FDs for higher interest rates.

Reinvest the interest or opt for regular payouts based on your needs.

However, FD interest is taxable, reducing post-tax returns.

Balanced Investment in Mutual Funds
Mutual funds can offer inflation-beating returns over the long term.

Invest Rs. 50–75 lakhs in a mix of equity and hybrid mutual funds.

Hybrid funds balance growth and stability, suitable for retirees.

Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs) ensure monthly income while maintaining capital appreciation.

Actively managed funds outperform index funds by leveraging market opportunities.

Avoid direct funds as regular funds offer better guidance through a Certified Financial Planner.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund of Rs. 10–15 lakhs in liquid assets.

This can be parked in liquid mutual funds or savings accounts.

It ensures quick access to cash for unforeseen expenses.

Health and Life Insurance
Ensure your current health insurance is adequate for rising medical costs.

A top-up health plan may be worth considering.

Review your life insurance needs, if applicable, to protect your spouse financially.

Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategy
Plan withdrawals from your investments to minimise tax.

Withdraw from debt instruments first to let equity investments grow.

Use SCSS and POMIS income for regular expenses to avoid redeeming growth investments prematurely.

Gifting and Family Support
Consider gifting a part of your wealth to your daughter under Section 56 of the Income Tax Act.

Such gifts are tax-free for both you and the recipient if given within family relationships.

Ensure you balance gifting with retaining enough for your future needs.

Final Insights
Investing your Rs. 2 crore retirement fund strategically will ensure financial security and flexibility. Avoid locking funds in another flat due to its illiquid nature and uncertain returns. Instead, allocate across SCSS, POMIS, FDs, and mutual funds for steady growth, liquidity, and a regular income stream.

A diversified portfolio will secure your financial independence and allow you to support your family comfortably. Periodically review your investments with a Certified Financial Planner to adapt to changing circumstances.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

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Please suggest me 5 mutual funds for Sip of 8000/- total amount monthly.....I want to invest for 8 years .....I'm 42 years of age ..
Ans: Investing Rs. 8,000 monthly for 8 years can help you create wealth effectively. Let us identify the ideal funds and strategy for you.

Key Points for Selection
Your investment horizon of 8 years is medium-term.

A balanced approach is suitable, combining equity and debt.

Diversification across fund categories ensures better risk management.

Suggested Allocation for Rs. 8,000 SIP
Large-Cap Fund (Rs. 2,000)
These funds invest in top 100 companies by market capitalisation.
They offer stability and steady growth.

Flexi-Cap Fund (Rs. 2,000)
These funds invest across market caps for diversification.
They provide growth and flexibility during market fluctuations.

Mid-Cap Fund (Rs. 1,500)
These funds focus on mid-sized companies with high growth potential.
They carry moderate risk and reward.

Balanced Advantage Fund (Rs. 1,500)
These funds dynamically adjust between equity and debt.
They are suitable for moderate risk and consistent returns.

Debt Fund (Rs. 1,000)
These funds offer stability and act as a hedge against equity volatility.
They are crucial for meeting liquidity needs.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Active funds allow fund managers to outperform benchmarks.

They adjust to market trends for better returns.

Avoid index funds due to limited flexibility and performance dependency.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide you in selecting high-quality funds.

Tax Considerations
Equity funds attract LTCG tax above Rs. 1.25 lakh at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

Debt funds are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Plan redemptions to minimise tax liabilities.

Recommendations for Effective SIP Management
Automate SIPs to maintain discipline.

Increase SIP amounts annually by 10–15% with income growth.

Review the fund performance periodically.

Stay invested during market corrections for better compounding.

Emergency and Risk Management
Maintain an emergency fund of 6–12 months' expenses.

Ensure adequate health insurance for yourself and dependents.

Have life insurance of 10–15 times your annual income.

Final Insights
Your decision to invest Rs. 8,000 monthly is excellent. A well-diversified mutual fund portfolio aligned with your goals can achieve significant growth. Focus on consistency, discipline, and periodic reviews for optimal results.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 09, 2024Hindi
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Hi..me and wife are in late forties. We have 1Cr in PPF, 1 Cr in FDs and 1Cr in MFs. Our current salary is 2L per month. We are living in own house. We are also getting rent of 50k per month. We have zero loans. One Kid is doing engineering, the other is in school. Can we retire early now.
Ans: Early retirement is a significant decision requiring careful planning. Let us evaluate your situation comprehensively and guide you on the way forward.

Current Financial Position
You have Rs. 1 crore in PPF, offering risk-free returns.

Rs. 1 crore is in fixed deposits, providing safety and liquidity.

Rs. 1 crore is in mutual funds, aimed at wealth creation.

You have a total financial corpus of Rs. 3 crore.

Your monthly income is Rs. 2 lakh, plus Rs. 50,000 from rental income.

You own your house and have no loans.

Financial Responsibilities
One child is pursuing engineering, which involves substantial expenses.

The other child is in school, with educational needs likely to increase.

You need to plan for higher education and possibly marriage expenses.

Retirement Lifestyle and Expenses
Determine your monthly expenses, including living costs and leisure activities.

Account for inflation. Expenses will rise significantly over the years.

Plan for medical costs as healthcare expenses increase with age.

Corpus Evaluation for Early Retirement
A corpus of Rs. 3 crore is a strong foundation for early retirement.

This amount must support your family for 30–40 years.

Rental income of Rs. 50,000 can reduce dependence on your corpus.

Your PPF and fixed deposits provide safety, but inflation can erode their value.

Mutual funds can offer growth, but they require long-term discipline.

Investment Strategy Post-Retirement
Allocate 60–70% of your corpus to equity mutual funds for inflation-adjusted growth.

Invest 20–30% in debt funds for stability and predictable returns.

Maintain 5–10% in liquid funds for emergencies and short-term needs.

Managing Educational Expenses
Estimate costs for your children’s higher education.

Use part of the mutual fund corpus for these expenses.

Avoid withdrawing from PPF prematurely to ensure long-term safety.

Medical and Life Insurance
Review your health insurance coverage of Rs. 10 lakh for the family.

Consider increasing it to Rs. 20–25 lakh to cover rising healthcare costs.

Ensure life insurance of at least 10–15 times your annual income.

Opt for a term plan if your existing coverage is insufficient.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund of 12–24 months of expenses.

Use liquid funds or short-term fixed deposits for this purpose.

Tax Efficiency
PPF interest is tax-free, but fixed deposit interest is taxable.

Mutual funds offer tax-efficient returns over the long term.

Equity mutual funds' LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

Plan redemptions to minimise tax outgo on your investments.

Importance of Regular Reviews
Review your financial plan and investment portfolio annually.

Adjust your asset allocation based on market conditions and changing needs.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner for unbiased and expert advice.

Final Insights
You are well-positioned for early retirement, but proper planning is critical. Focus on inflation-beating growth, healthcare readiness, and financial discipline. Balance your responsibilities with lifestyle aspirations, ensuring sustainability over the long term.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 04, 2024Hindi
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Hello Experts, I am 43 old having a monthly Sal of 2.6L/Month wife Sal is 40K/Month. We have 35L invested in MF and Equity ( Stocks) we have have close to 40L in FD and Post office, as part of retirement my PF is close to 40L we have 2 kids 11 and 7 years old. We have a 3BHK flat, we have no loans. health insurance of 10L for family and 15L for my mother who is 72 years old. Doing a SIP of 1.5L per month, we started investing 2 years back, along with SIP we did some lumpsum investments also. Is it possible to have a good corpus in next 10 years.
Ans: Your consistent efforts reflect great financial discipline. Let us assess and guide you on building a robust corpus for the next 10 years.

Income and Expenses
Your combined family income is Rs. 3,00,000 per month.

With no loans, you have a healthy cash flow for investments.

Existing Investments
Rs. 35 lakh is invested in mutual funds and equity stocks.

Rs. 40 lakh is in fixed deposits and post office schemes.

Your retirement corpus in PF is Rs. 40 lakh.

Insurance Coverage
Health insurance of Rs. 10 lakh covers your family.

Separate Rs. 15 lakh health insurance covers your mother.

Current SIP and Lump Sum Investments
Your SIP contribution of Rs. 1.5 lakh per month is substantial.

Investments started two years ago, showing focused financial planning.

Retirement Planning
You aim to accumulate a good corpus in 10 years.

Your PF of Rs. 40 lakh will continue to grow over time.

Focus on equity for wealth creation due to long-term growth potential.

Assessing Your Goals
Consider retirement and children’s education as key goals.

Plan for higher education expenses when kids are 18–20 years old.

Ensure funds for post-retirement lifestyle and medical needs.

Suggested Investment Strategy
Continue with your SIP of Rs. 1.5 lakh per month.

Allocate 60–70% of your SIP to equity mutual funds for growth.

Invest in flexi-cap, large-cap, and mid-cap funds for balanced risk.

Allocate 20–30% to debt funds for stability and lower risk.

Emergency Fund and Contingency Planning
Maintain an emergency fund of at least 12 months of expenses.

Use liquid funds or short-term FDs for this purpose.

Diversification of Investments
Limit exposure to fixed deposits due to lower returns.

Gradually move some FD funds to mutual funds for higher growth.

Keep post office investments for secure, low-risk returns.

Tax Efficiency of Investments
Understand new capital gains taxation on equity and debt mutual funds.

Plan redemptions to optimise long-term and short-term capital gains taxes.

Fixed deposit interest is taxable. Diversify to reduce tax burden.

Education Planning
Start a dedicated corpus for children’s higher education.

Invest separately for this goal in equity mutual funds.

Use child-specific funds or regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner.

Risk Management
Review health insurance to ensure coverage is adequate.

Consider increasing family health coverage to Rs. 20 lakh if feasible.

Buy a term insurance policy for 15–20 times your annual income.

Reviewing and Rebalancing
Review your portfolio every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Check fund performance and rebalance based on market conditions.

Avoid emotional decisions during market volatility.

Avoid Common Pitfalls
Avoid direct mutual fund investments without expert guidance.

Use regular funds to benefit from professional advice and support.

Refrain from mixing insurance and investment products.

Final Insights
Your financial planning is on the right track. Continue disciplined investments and strategic diversification. Focus on long-term growth through equity and maintain safety through debt. Regular reviews and a Certified Financial Planner’s guidance can ensure your goals are met comfortably.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

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I am 37 years old, I am employed and my salary is 30 thousand and I have not invested anywhere. Where and in what and how much should I invest so that when my child turns 20-22 years old, he can get a good amount. He is 2 years old now, the house is on rent, I have not taken any insurance. Please advise.
Ans: It’s commendable that you want to secure your child’s future. Let’s create a step-by-step plan to help you achieve your goal.

Assessing Your Financial Standing
Your monthly income is Rs. 30,000, and your expenses need careful management.

Currently, there are no investments or insurance policies in place.

Your child’s education goal is long-term, giving you time to grow your investments.

Importance of Budgeting and Emergency Funds
Start with budgeting. Allocate money for essential needs, investments, and savings.

Build an emergency fund. Keep six months' expenses in a liquid account.

Use savings accounts or short-term fixed deposits for this purpose.

Securing Yourself with Insurance
Life insurance is critical to protect your family.

Buy a term insurance plan for 15–20 times your annual income.

Consider health insurance. It protects you against medical emergencies.

Opt for Rs. 5–10 lakh individual health insurance for yourself and your family.

Investing for Your Child's Education
You have 16–18 years to invest for your child’s education.

Mutual funds are ideal for long-term wealth creation.

Choose equity mutual funds. They provide inflation-beating returns.

Invest in actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner.

Recommended Investment Structure
Start with a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). Invest monthly for discipline.

Allocate 20–30% to large-cap funds for stability.

Invest 30–40% in flexi-cap or multi-cap funds for moderate growth.

Allocate 20–30% to mid-cap and small-cap funds for higher growth potential.

Monthly Investment Strategy
Assess your disposable income after expenses.

Aim to invest Rs. 7,000–10,000 monthly in mutual funds.

Increase investments as your income grows.

Set a target to grow this corpus steadily over the years.

Avoid Common Investment Pitfalls
Avoid mixing insurance with investments.

Skip low-return options like traditional LIC policies.

Do not invest in direct mutual funds without proper guidance.

Use regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner for consistent advice.

Importance of Reviewing Investments
Review your portfolio annually. Check fund performance and make changes.

Stay invested in equity mutual funds for at least 7–10 years for best results.

Avoid panic during market volatility. Focus on long-term goals.

Tax Implications
Equity mutual funds have tax benefits for long-term investments.

Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh per year are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Planning for Rent and Other Needs
Manage your rent and other recurring expenses effectively.

Do not compromise your investments for lifestyle expenses.

As income increases, consider investing surplus amounts for faster growth.

Role of Discipline in Financial Growth
Discipline is key to consistent investing and wealth creation.

Automate your SIPs to avoid missing monthly contributions.

Be patient. Compounding works best over long periods.

Final Insights
Planning for your child’s education is a noble goal. You can achieve it with discipline and proper strategies. Protect your family with insurance and create wealth with mutual funds. Review your progress annually and make adjustments as needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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Pushpa

Pushpa R  |37 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

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I HAVE CONSTIPACATION PROBLEM WICH AASAN RELIVE FROM THIS PROBLEM
Ans: Constipation can be uncomfortable, but yoga is an excellent way to stimulate digestion and relieve this issue. Here are some simple asanas you can try regularly to help improve bowel movements:

1. Pavanamuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose)
Lie on your back and bring one knee to your chest, holding it with your hands.
Press your knee gently into your abdomen while keeping the other leg straight.
Switch legs and repeat, or do both knees together.
This pose massages your abdominal organs and promotes digestion.
2. Marjaryasana-Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Pose)
Begin on all fours.
As you inhale, arch your back (Cow Pose) and look up.
As you exhale, round your back (Cat Pose) and tuck your chin to your chest.
Repeat slowly for 8-10 breaths to massage your digestive organs and improve gut motility.
3. Malasana (Garland Pose)
Squat down with your feet wide apart and palms together at your chest.
Keep your spine straight and hold this pose for a few breaths.
This pose helps open up the pelvic area, aiding digestion and elimination.
4. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
Sit with your legs straight and bend forward from your hips, reaching for your toes.
This stretches the abdominal area and stimulates digestion.
Tips:

Drink plenty of water and include fiber-rich foods in your diet.
Practice these poses daily, but avoid forcing your body into any position.
If constipation persists, consult a doctor and consider working with a yoga coach for personalized guidance.

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7345 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 26, 2024Hindi
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Money
Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |475 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Dec 26, 2024

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Relationship
I am talking to a boy for arranged marriage. He said me that come to Bangalore you will have a good career. But he is also asking me if I can leave my job if I have got some responsibility in life to which I said yes. Then I said that I prefer own cooked food over cook cooked food. Then he asked me if I can cook for 2 people to which I said that I will have to look if I can do. He seems to be supportive when he talks on phone. Is he brain washing me, should I say yes or no. Is he a red flag. What should I do.
Ans: Dear Moumita,
It isn't fair to label someone as a red flag over a few days of conversation; seeing women take up responsibilities of home and disregard their own career or needs might be what he has seen growing up and it's not him being a red flag intentionally. A lot has to do with upbringing. What I can suggest with confidence is that if you love having your own job, and your own financial independence then please be vocal about it. Just because he is asking you to leave your job doesn't mean you have to do it- you are only in the talking phase. You are not married yet. You have ample time to rethink your choice. Cooking and housework shouldn’t just be your responsibility, just like earning and providing shouldn’t only be his. It’s about sharing the load equally. Having said that, I should also mention that every relationship is different, and each couple finds their own way of balancing things. Ultimately, everything boils down to what you are comfortable with- please take some time to figure that out and only then decide whether or not to take this relationship ahead.

Hope this helps.

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