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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |4068 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 17, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Bhavana Question by Bhavana on Jun 17, 2024Hindi
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Career

Thank you for your suggestions and guidance.

Ans: You're welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Best wishes on your financial journey!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
Career

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Dev

Dev Ashish  |44 Answers  |Ask -

MF Expert, Financial Planner - Answered on Jun 27, 2024

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Hi..I have a Real Estate Property @ 1.35 cr in other city whereas I stay in a house worth Rs. 80 Lakhs in other city and I also have Equity n MF worth Rs. 1 cr and I am getting Rent from Such Property @ Rs. 35,000 and no other income other than this...So mY QUESTION IS WHETHER buying a new property worth Rs. 3.5 cr is a right decision or opine your expertise on my Finance
Ans: To answer your question, sufficient information isn't provided. We still don't know what other goals you have that need funding. Also, purchasing a Rs 3.5 Cr will require you to take a loan for which you will have a big EMI to service. Your only income is Rs 35,000 monthly which would be used for regular expenses. it is also not known whether you plan to sell your existing properties to fund new property purchase or not.

So it seems that the decision to purchase a new property doesn't seem the right one based on the limited details that you have shared.


Thanks
Dev Ashish,
SEBI Registered Investment Advisor (Fee-Only RIA)
Founder, StableInvestor.com
Twitter (@Stableinvestor)

Note (Disclaimer) - As a SEBI RIA, I cannot comment on specific schemes/funds that are provided or asked for in the questions in the platform. And the views expressed above should not be considered professional investment advice or advertisement or otherwise. No specific product/service recommendations have been made and the answers here are for general educational purposes only. The readers are requested to take into consideration all the risk factors including their financial condition, suitability to risk-return profile and the like and take professional investment advice before investing.

...Read more

Dev

Dev Ashish  |44 Answers  |Ask -

MF Expert, Financial Planner - Answered on Jun 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 27, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I am 45 and having 3 kid's with age 17 , 10 and 6 and earn 3lakhs per month n have 8 lakhs home loan. I would like to build a. Corpus of 2 cr plus in next 12 years.. please advise
Ans: Your goal is Rs 2 Cr in the next 12 years. At that point, you will be aged 57 and your kids will be 29, 22 and 18 years old. So from the life stage perspective, it seems that the goal is about saving for retirement and the youngest kid's higher education (aged 18 then). Saying this as, by then oldest and middle kid would have completed their education.

No details of the existing assets have been provided so we will assume that you need to save up Rs 2 Cr in 12 years from scratch.

For this, you will have to start investing at least Rs 52,000 per month starting today and increase the monthly investments by at least 7% each year for the next `12 years (assuming a similar increase in salary). This is assuming a 75:25 Equity:Debt allocation. The good part is that at a monthly income of Rs 3 lakh, doing Rs 52,000 monthly should be fairly comfortable if you arent already doing it.

We don't have information about your risk appetite. But assuming that it is at least moderately aggressive, then, you can start investing in a combination of largecap index funds, flexicap funds, midcap funds.

Thanks
Dev Ashish,
SEBI Registered Investment Advisor (Fee-Only RIA)
Founder, StableInvestor.com
Twitter (@Stableinvestor)

Note (Disclaimer) - As a SEBI RIA, I cannot comment on specific schemes/funds that are provided or asked for in the questions in the platform. And the views expressed above should not be considered professional investment advice or advertisement or otherwise. No specific product/service recommendations have been made and the answers here are for general educational purposes only. The readers are requested to take into consideration all the risk factors including their financial condition, suitability to risk-return profile and the like and take professional investment advice before investing.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |4068 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
My father's is retiring next year in 2025 and would like to Invest Rs 50 Lakhs I I need to know best funds for SWP which would provide 20-25K monthly Income ?
Ans: Congratulations to your father on his upcoming retirement! It's wonderful that he is thinking about how to invest his Rs. 50 lakhs to generate a steady monthly income. Let’s explore the best options for setting up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) to provide a monthly income of Rs. 20,000-25,000.

Understanding SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan)
A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) is an excellent option for retirees. It allows regular withdrawals from a lump sum investment in mutual funds. This way, your father can receive a fixed amount monthly while keeping the rest of his money invested.

Benefits of SWP
Regular Income: SWP ensures a steady income stream, making it easier to manage monthly expenses. This is particularly beneficial during retirement when a consistent cash flow is essential.

Tax Efficiency: SWP can be more tax-efficient than traditional fixed deposits. Only the capital gains portion of the withdrawal is taxed, not the principal amount. This can lead to significant tax savings, especially over the long term.

Capital Appreciation: The remaining invested amount continues to grow, offering potential capital appreciation over time. This means your father's investment can keep pace with inflation and potentially increase in value.

Flexibility: SWP allows changes in withdrawal amounts and frequency based on financial needs. If your father's expenses increase or decrease, he can adjust the SWP accordingly.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Funds for SWP
Risk Tolerance
Your father's risk tolerance is crucial. Since he is retiring, preserving capital while generating income is vital. Balanced funds or conservative hybrid funds are ideal. They offer a mix of equity and debt, providing stability and growth potential.

Investment Horizon
Although your father needs regular income, the investment horizon should be long-term. This helps mitigate market volatility and maximizes returns. A mix of equity and debt ensures that the portfolio is not overly exposed to market risks.

Fund Performance
Choose funds with a consistent track record. Look for funds that have performed well over the last 5-10 years. Stability and reliability are key when selecting funds for retirement income. Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns, but it can indicate how the fund has managed market cycles.

Expense Ratio
Opt for funds with low expense ratios. High expense ratios can eat into returns, reducing the amount available for monthly withdrawals. A lower expense ratio means more of your money stays invested and working for you.

Professional Management
Actively managed funds are preferable. They are managed by experienced professionals who adjust the portfolio based on market conditions. This reduces risk and improves returns compared to index funds. Active management can provide the necessary expertise to navigate volatile markets and optimize returns.

Types of Funds Suitable for SWP
Balanced Funds
Balanced funds invest in a mix of equities and debt. They provide stability and growth, making them ideal for SWP. They aim to balance risk and return, which is crucial for retirees. By investing in both equities and debt, balanced funds can offer the potential for higher returns than pure debt funds while maintaining a lower risk profile than pure equity funds.

Conservative Hybrid Funds
These funds invest primarily in debt instruments and a smaller portion in equity. They offer stability with some growth potential. They are suitable for investors with a low risk appetite. The debt component provides steady income and preserves capital, while the equity component offers growth potential.

Equity Savings Funds
These funds invest in a mix of equity, debt, and arbitrage opportunities. They offer moderate risk and return. The debt component provides stability, while the equity component offers growth. Arbitrage opportunities help in reducing risk further and can provide consistent returns even in volatile markets.

Monthly Income Plans (MIPs)
MIPs primarily invest in debt instruments and a small portion in equity. They aim to provide regular income while preserving capital. They are suitable for conservative investors. The primary goal of MIPs is to provide a steady income stream, making them ideal for retirees looking for regular income.

Setting Up the SWP
Calculating the Withdrawal Amount
To generate Rs. 20,000-25,000 monthly, the SWP should be set up based on expected returns. Assuming a conservative annual return of 8%, an SWP can be structured to withdraw around Rs. 20,000-25,000 monthly without depleting the capital too quickly. This calculation ensures that the withdrawals are sustainable over the long term.

Starting the SWP
Once the funds are selected, invest the Rs. 50 lakhs in these funds. Set up the SWP to withdraw the desired amount monthly. Regularly review and adjust the SWP based on fund performance and changing needs. It's important to start the SWP after understanding the withdrawal rate that ensures the capital lasts through the retirement period.

Tax Implications
SWP is tax-efficient. Only the capital gains portion of the withdrawal is taxed. Long-term capital gains from equity funds (held for more than a year) are taxed at 10% above Rs. 1 lakh per year. Short-term gains are taxed at 15%. Debt fund gains are taxed based on the holding period, with indexation benefits for long-term gains. Understanding the tax implications can help in effective planning and maximizing after-tax returns.

Monitoring and Adjusting the SWP
Regular Review
Regularly review the SWP and the performance of the funds. This ensures the strategy remains aligned with financial goals. Adjustments might be necessary based on market conditions and changing financial needs. Regular reviews help in ensuring that the withdrawals are sustainable and the investment continues to meet the income needs.

Rebalancing the Portfolio
Periodically rebalance the portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. This ensures the portfolio remains aligned with risk tolerance and investment goals. Rebalancing helps in managing risk and ensuring that the investment strategy remains effective.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund separate from the SWP. This provides a buffer for unexpected expenses without disrupting the SWP. An emergency fund ensures that you don't have to withdraw more than planned from the SWP, preserving the capital for future needs.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 50 lakhs through an SWP is a smart move for generating a steady monthly income for your father. By choosing the right mix of balanced, conservative hybrid, equity savings, and monthly income plans, he can achieve a stable income while preserving his capital. Regular reviews and adjustments will ensure the SWP remains effective and aligned with his financial goals.

Remember, it’s important to consult a certified financial planner for personalized advice. They can help tailor the SWP to your father’s specific needs and circumstances, ensuring a secure and comfortable retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |4068 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hello sir, I have recently joined government job and earning Rs.29,555 per month and I'm 27 years old. I have to send 20k for my family as our monthly expenses and have younger sister who is still studying and even her expense are covered in that 20k. In the remaining 9k I have to spend Rs.2500 for monthly bus pass and 1k for petrol and 1.5k for miscellaneous. I don't have any savings o, how can I save money for my future from this?
Ans: Congratulations on your new government job! You’re already on a great path by thinking about saving and planning for your future. Let’s break down your situation and find ways to manage your finances effectively while saving for the future.

Understanding Your Financial Situation
You earn Rs. 29,555 per month. You send Rs. 20,000 to your family for expenses, which includes your younger sister’s educational expenses. After this, you have Rs. 9,555 left.

Your monthly expenses are:

Rs. 2,500 for a bus pass

Rs. 1,000 for petrol

Rs. 1,500 for miscellaneous expenses

This leaves you with Rs. 4,555 at the end of each month.

Creating a Budget
Creating a budget is essential. It will help you track your spending and ensure you save money every month. Let’s create a simple budget plan.

Fixed Expenses
Family expenses: Rs. 20,000

Bus pass: Rs. 2,500

Petrol: Rs. 1,000

Miscellaneous: Rs. 1,500

Total fixed expenses: Rs. 25,000

Savings
Emergency fund: Rs. 1,000

Long-term savings: Rs. 1,555

This way, you can start building a financial cushion while also setting aside money for the future.

Building an Emergency Fund
Having an emergency fund is crucial. It helps you handle unexpected expenses without derailing your financial plans. Aim to save at least Rs. 1,000 each month. Even though it might seem small, it will grow over time. Keep this money in a savings account for easy access.

Long-term Savings and Investments
With Rs. 1,555 left for long-term savings, consider investing in mutual funds. They offer better returns compared to traditional savings accounts. Start with a systematic investment plan (SIP) in mutual funds. It allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly, which can be as low as Rs. 500 per month.

Benefits of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are managed by professionals who invest in a diversified portfolio. This reduces risk and can provide higher returns over time. By investing through a certified financial planner, you get expert advice and personalized investment plans.

Financial Goals
Short-term Goals
Emergency Fund: Save at least Rs. 20,000 in the next year for emergencies.

Savings for Small Purchases: Set aside a small amount each month for things you want to buy in the near future.

Long-term Goals
Retirement Savings: Start a retirement savings plan. Even small amounts invested regularly can grow significantly over time.

Sister’s Education: Continue supporting your sister’s education. Once she graduates, you can redirect this money to other financial goals.

Tips for Saving Money
Track Your Expenses: Use a budgeting app or a simple notebook to track your daily expenses. This helps identify unnecessary spending.

Cut Unnecessary Costs: Review your expenses and cut down on non-essential items. Small savings add up over time.

Use Public Transport: You’re already doing this with your bus pass. It’s a great way to save money.

Cook at Home: Avoid eating out frequently. Cooking at home is cheaper and healthier.

Look for Discounts: Always look for discounts and deals when shopping. This can save you a lot over time.

Importance of Financial Discipline
Being disciplined with your finances is key to building a secure future. Stick to your budget, save regularly, and avoid unnecessary debt. Over time, these habits will pay off.

Seeking Professional Advice
Consider consulting a certified financial planner. They can provide personalized advice and help you create a comprehensive financial plan. They can also help you choose the right mutual funds and other investment options based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Final Insights
Your current financial situation might seem tight, but with careful planning and disciplined saving, you can achieve your financial goals. Start by creating a budget, building an emergency fund, and investing in mutual funds through a certified financial planner. Over time, your savings will grow, and you’ll be better prepared for the future.

Remember, every small step you take towards saving and investing counts. It’s important to stay consistent and patient. Your efforts today will secure a brighter financial future for you and your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

...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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