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Komal

Komal Jethmalani  |308 Answers  |Ask -

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2023

Komal Jethmalani is a practising dietician and nutritionist with over 26 years of experience.
She specialises in weight loss and diabetes management.
Jethmalani has completed her MSc in food and nutrition from SNDT University and trained at Jaslok Hospital.
She is a NDEP-certified diabetes educator.... more
Santosh Question by Santosh on Nov 14, 2023Hindi
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I don't have any issues but my fasting sugar is 140, Is there any concern? Please assist

Ans: Fasting blood sugar level of 140mg/dl is indicative of diabetes. I would encourage you to consult a medical practitioner and get your blood parameters checked. It is advisable to take action immediately.
DISCLAIMER: The answer provided by rediffGURUS is for informational and general awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi, I have a EPF balance which I have not withdrawn after relocating abroad about 2 years back. I plan to be back in India after 5 to 6 years and also do not want to withdraw EPF if it continuous to accrue interest till I withdraw or retirement age. Can I know if there are any restrictions of interest accrual for inactive PF accounts i.e. where contributions are no longer made? Any other things I need to be aware of to make a decision to withdraw or not?
Ans: It's great to see that you're thinking ahead about your EPF balance and its implications for your future financial planning. Let's address your concerns and provide some guidance on the matter:

Understanding EPF Inactivity:

When you relocate abroad or cease to be employed, your EPF account becomes inactive, meaning no further contributions are made.
However, the balance in your EPF account continues to earn interest until you either withdraw it or reach retirement age.
Impact of Inactivity on Interest Accrual:

The EPF balance in your inactive account will continue to accrue interest, albeit at a lower rate compared to active accounts.
While the exact interest rate may vary depending on economic conditions and government policies, your EPF balance will still grow over time.
Factors to Consider Before Withdrawing EPF:

Withdrawal of EPF balance before retirement age may have tax implications, depending on the duration of the account and the reason for withdrawal.
If you plan to return to India and resume employment, leaving your EPF balance untouched allows it to grow further and provide a larger corpus for your retirement.
However, if you anticipate financial needs or investment opportunities abroad, withdrawing your EPF balance may be necessary, considering factors such as tax implications, currency conversion, and investment alternatives.
Other Considerations:

Evaluate the potential returns and benefits of keeping your EPF balance invested compared to alternative investment options available abroad.
Consider consulting a tax advisor or financial planner to assess the tax implications of EPF withdrawal and explore strategies to minimize tax liabilities.
Keep track of changes in EPF regulations and policies, as they may impact the interest rate, withdrawal rules, and taxation in the future.
Encouragement:

It's commendable that you're proactively considering the implications of your EPF balance on your future financial well-being.
By staying informed and making well-thought-out decisions, you can maximize the growth potential of your EPF balance and secure a comfortable retirement.
In summary, while your EPF account remains inactive, your balance will continue to accrue interest, albeit at a lower rate. Consider factors such as tax implications, investment opportunities, and future financial needs before making a decision to withdraw or retain your EPF balance.

Best wishes for your future financial endeavors!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I am 28 years old unmarried. My current salary is 67000. I give 17000 at home to parents. I have a under construction home whose EMI is 13000 now (expected 20000 after possession). Apart from that I invest 5000 in stocks (strictly swing trading in stocks). I invest in mutual funds ( Parag Parikh Flexicap Fund - Rs 2900, Kotak Small Cap Fund - 1450, Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund - 1450). I also invest in NPS - Active Choice (E - 75%, G - 10%, C - 10%, A - 5%) I have LIC term plan with bonus wherein I have to pay 15 lacs for 35 years and I will get 75 lacs (by age of 57). Can you please suggest any changes. My goal is to accumulate 10+ cr by age 58
Ans: Thank you for sharing your financial details with me. It's great to see that you are actively planning for your future and investing in various avenues at such a young age.

Considering your goals and current financial situation, here are some suggestions for optimizing your investment portfolio:

Increase Savings:
Given your current salary and expenses, consider increasing your savings rate gradually. Aim to allocate a higher percentage of your income towards investments to accelerate wealth accumulation.
Review Mutual Fund Portfolio:
While your selection of mutual funds is diversified across different categories, it's essential to periodically review their performance and suitability for your goals.
Consider evaluating the consistency of returns, fund manager track record, expense ratios, and overall portfolio alignment with your risk appetite and investment objectives.
You may also explore adding or replacing funds to further diversify your portfolio or align with specific investment themes or strategies.
Revisit NPS Allocation:
Your allocation in NPS is quite aggressive, with a significant portion allocated to equities (75%). While this can potentially generate higher returns over the long term, it also exposes you to higher market volatility.
Consider reassessing your risk tolerance and investment horizon to determine if the current asset allocation aligns with your comfort level.
Depending on your risk appetite and financial goals, you may consider adjusting the equity-debt allocation to achieve a more balanced and diversified portfolio.
Evaluate Insurance Coverage:
While you have a term plan with a significant sum assured, it's essential to ensure that the coverage adequately meets your future financial liabilities and responsibilities.
Consider reviewing your insurance needs periodically, especially as your income and financial obligations change over time. You may need to increase coverage or explore additional insurance products to protect against unforeseen circumstances adequately.
Explore Long-Term Wealth Creation:
To achieve your goal of accumulating 10+ crores by age 58, focus on long-term wealth creation strategies that offer potential for compounding and growth.
Consider exploring alternative investment options such as real estate (excluding your current home), retirement accounts, tax-saving instruments, and systematic investment plans (SIPs) in diversified equity funds.
Remember, financial planning is a dynamic process that requires regular review and adjustments based on changing circumstances and goals. Consider consulting with a certified financial planner to create a personalized financial plan tailored to your needs and aspirations.

Keep up the good work and stay committed to your financial goals. With prudent planning and disciplined investing, you can achieve financial success and secure a prosperous future.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
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What are the pros and cons of the NFO HDFC Manufacturing Fund?
Ans: Pros of HDFC Manufacturing Fund (NFO)
Targeted Exposure to Manufacturing Sector: The fund invests specifically in companies engaged in manufacturing, which could benefit if the manufacturing sector in India grows.
Potential for Early-Stage Growth: Since it's a new fund offering (NFO), you get in at the ground floor, which could lead to higher returns if the fund performs well.
Diversification: The fund invests in a variety of companies within the manufacturing sector, which helps spread risk.
Cons of HDFC Manufacturing Fund (NFO)
Limited Track Record: There's no past performance data to analyze since it's a new fund. Performance depends on the fund manager's ability to pick winning stocks.
Sector Concentration: The fund's performance is tied to the manufacturing sector's performance. If the sector struggles, the fund will likely underperform.
Exit Load: There's a 1% exit load if you redeem your investment within one year.

Due Diligence Recommended: While the HDFC Manufacturing Fund (NFO) focuses on an interesting theme, consider this: NFOs by definition lack a track record. Since past performance can be an indicator of future results, opting for existing funds with a strong history and proven fund manager might be a more prudent approach. These established funds will also likely have lower fees.

Focus on Long-Term Investment Strategy: If you're set on the manufacturing sector, research existing mutual funds that invest in this area. Look for funds with a long-term investment strategy and a good reputation.

Consult a Financial Advisor: For a personalized recommendation, consulting with a Certified Financial Planner is always a good idea. They can assess your risk tolerance and investment goals and suggest suitable existing funds that align with your needs.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir , I wanted to get financially free in 10 years , My Age is 30 years My Annual income is 15 lpa My expected passive income would be 12 lpa My current investments are 1) HDFC opportunities fund - 4.5 lakh (2 lakh profit) 2) Direct stocks - 3 lakh ( 50 thousand profit) 3) FD - 1 lakh ( for 3 years started in 2022) 4) Ppf - 1.5 lakh ( 3 years have passed) Please suggest some investments and saving ammount and changes I need to bring to achieve my target How much corpus do I need including 2 kids education and marriage
Ans: Dear Sir,

Thank you for sharing your financial details and aspirations with me. It's commendable that you're looking to achieve financial freedom at such a young age and have already taken steps towards building your wealth.

Given your goal of achieving financial freedom in 10 years, here are some suggestions and recommendations to help you get closer to your objective:

Increase Savings and Investments:
Since you're already investing in HDFC opportunities fund, direct stocks, FD, and PPF, consider increasing your investment amount in these avenues or exploring additional investment options.
Aim to save and invest a significant portion of your annual income to accelerate your wealth-building journey.
Diversify Your Portfolio:
While stocks and mutual funds offer good growth potential, it's essential to diversify your portfolio to spread risk. Consider exploring other asset classes such as real estate, bonds, or alternative investments to create a well-rounded portfolio.
Additionally, consider investing in tax-saving instruments like ELSS funds to optimize your tax efficiency while building wealth.
Plan for Children's Education and Marriage:
Estimate the future expenses for your children's education and marriage and factor them into your financial plan.
Start investing in dedicated savings accounts or investment vehicles specifically earmarked for your children's future expenses. Consider options like child education plans, mutual funds, or Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for long-term goals.
Review and Adjust Regularly:
Regularly review your financial plan and investment portfolio to ensure they align with your goals and risk tolerance.
Adjust your savings and investment strategy as needed based on changes in your income, expenses, market conditions, and life goals.
Seek Professional Advice:
Consider consulting with a certified financial planner or investment advisor to create a customized financial plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
A professional advisor can provide valuable insights, guidance, and recommendations to help you optimize your financial strategy and achieve your objectives.
In terms of the corpus needed to achieve financial freedom, it will depend on various factors such as your desired lifestyle, future expenses, inflation, and investment returns. A financial planner can help you calculate the required corpus based on your individual circumstances and goals.

Remember, achieving financial freedom requires discipline, patience, and a well-thought-out plan. Stay focused on your goals, continue to invest diligently, and make informed financial decisions to move closer to your objective.

Best of luck on your journey towards financial freedom!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hello Sir. I'm 34, married and currently employed in Govt. sector with ~90k gross salary. Present investments include LIC policies worth 60k/year in me and my spouse's name, LIC policy worth 70k/year in my 3 yo daughter's name, PLI 70k/year, NPS 1.20 lac/year, mutual funds with value worth 5.8 lac, PPF with value at 80k and several other small investments. I live in parent's house and have not invested in land/house anywhere. I don't have any loans ongoing and credit card usage is minimal. I have approximately 3 L cash in hand and need to save for purchasing a property in short term. Kindly guide if I am on the right path and what else can I do to make my dream come true. With regards, Aamir
Ans: Dear Aamir,

Thank you for sharing your financial details with me. It's evident that you've made some thoughtful investments and are taking steps towards securing your financial future.

Firstly, I must commend you on your disciplined approach to savings and investment. Your commitment to contributing towards LIC policies, PLI, NPS, mutual funds, and PPF reflects your proactive attitude towards long-term financial planning.

Your decision to live in your parent's house and minimize credit card usage demonstrates a prudent approach to managing expenses and avoiding unnecessary debt. It's essential to maintain this financial discipline to ensure stability and security in the long run.

Now, let's address your goal of purchasing a property in the short term. Given your current cash reserves and investment portfolio, you're in a good position to work towards this objective. Here are some suggestions to help you achieve your dream:

• Continue Investing Wisely: Keep up with your regular contributions towards LIC policies, PLI, NPS, mutual funds, and PPF. These investments will continue to grow over time and provide you with a stable financial foundation.

• Build a Dedicated Property Fund: Since you have a specific goal of purchasing a property, consider creating a separate savings fund specifically earmarked for this purpose. Allocate a portion of your monthly savings towards this fund to accumulate the required down payment.

• Explore Additional Income Opportunities: Look for opportunities to increase your income, such as taking up part-time work, freelancing, or exploring alternative investment options. Additional income streams can accelerate your savings and help you reach your goal faster.

• Research Property Options: Start researching potential properties in your desired location and price range. Consider factors such as location, amenities, future appreciation potential, and financing options before making a decision.

• Review and Adjust: Regularly review your financial plan and make adjustments as needed based on changes in your circumstances or goals. Stay informed about market trends and investment opportunities to optimize your portfolio.

Remember, achieving financial goals requires patience, perseverance, and strategic planning. Stay focused on your objectives, and don't hesitate to seek professional guidance if needed.

Wishing you all the best in your journey towards purchasing your dream property!

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Sir I want to invest 1 lac in gold for 5 years. Pl suggest me where I should invest.Regards Kumar Rajesh
Ans: Dear Kumar Rajesh,

Thank you for reaching out with your query about investing in gold. It's great to see your interest in diversifying your investment portfolio.

Investing in gold can be a prudent strategy to hedge against economic uncertainties and preserve wealth over the long term. Let's explore some options for investing in gold:

• Gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds): These are mutual fund schemes that invest in physical gold bullion. They offer the convenience of buying and selling gold units through the stock exchange.

• Gold Savings Funds: These funds invest in gold ETFs and may also allocate a portion of their assets to debt instruments. They offer the flexibility of SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) for regular investments.

• Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs): Issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), SGBs are government securities denominated in grams of gold. They offer a fixed interest rate along with the potential for capital appreciation linked to the price of gold.

• Physical Gold: You can also consider investing in physical gold in the form of coins, bars, or jewelry. However, keep in mind the associated storage and security concerns.

When deciding where to invest your 1 lakh for 5 years, consider factors such as liquidity, convenience, and your risk appetite. Each investment option has its pros and cons, so it's essential to choose one that aligns with your financial goals and preferences.

Remember to conduct thorough research and consult with a financial advisor if needed to ensure you make an informed decision. Investing in gold can be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio, providing diversification and stability.

Best wishes on your investment journey!

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

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UNDER SECTION 80DDB deductible for senior citizens? Amount allowed as a deduction . How many years this benefit can be availed for different disease by senior Citizen ?
Ans: let me break down your queries about Section 80DDB in a simple and understandable manner:

• Section 80DDB provides deductions for medical expenses incurred by individuals, including senior citizens, for specified diseases.

• For senior citizens (those aged 60 years or above), the deduction allowed under Section 80DDB is up to INR 1 lakh.

• The diseases for which this deduction can be claimed include specified illnesses such as cancer, chronic renal failure, Parkinson's disease, etc.

• The deduction is available for the expenses incurred on the treatment of these diseases for self or dependent family members.

• To avail the deduction, a prescription from a specialist doctor is required, specifying the disease and the treatment.

• The deduction can be claimed for expenses incurred for the treatment of the specified diseases either for the individual or a dependent family member.

• The benefit under Section 80DDB can be availed for each financial year in which the expenses are incurred.

• There is no limit on the number of years this benefit can be availed, as long as the individual continues to incur medical expenses for the specified diseases.

In conclusion, Section 80DDB provides valuable tax benefits for senior citizens facing medical challenges, offering relief from the financial burden of treatment expenses. It's essential to keep records of medical bills and prescriptions to claim the deduction accurately.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 02, 2024Hindi
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I have an investment of Rs. 91790 at Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund whose current valuation is Rs. 189491, which is currently giving me a XIRR at around 19-20%. But as the Expense Ratio of the fund is quite high, i.e. more than 1 %, would you suggest me to switch the fund, or what should I do?
Ans: Considering the high expense ratio of the Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund, it's prudent to evaluate whether the returns generated justify the expenses incurred. Here are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to switch your investment:

Expense Ratio Comparison: Compare the expense ratio of the Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund with similar funds in the same category. If you find other funds with lower expense ratios and comparable performance, it may be worthwhile to consider switching.
Performance Analysis: Evaluate the fund's performance relative to its benchmark index and peer group. If the fund consistently underperforms its benchmark and peers, despite the high expense ratio, it may indicate inefficiency in fund management.
Risk Profile: Assess your risk tolerance and investment objectives. If you're comfortable with the current level of risk and the fund's performance meets your expectations, you may choose to continue holding the investment despite the higher expense ratio.
Tax Implications: Consider the tax implications of switching funds, especially if you've held the investment for a significant period. Selling units may attract capital gains tax, so weigh the potential tax liability against the benefits of switching to a lower-cost fund.
Fund Manager Track Record: Evaluate the track record and expertise of the fund manager. A skilled and experienced fund manager may justify a slightly higher expense ratio if they consistently deliver superior returns over the long term.
Exit Load: Check if there are any exit loads associated with redeeming units from the fund. Exiting the investment prematurely may result in additional costs if exit loads apply.
Alternative Investment Options: Explore alternative investment options within the same asset class or category that offer lower expense ratios without compromising on performance or risk.
Ultimately, the decision to switch funds should be based on a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including performance, expenses, risk, and tax implications. If you're unsure about the best course of action, consider seeking advice from a financial advisor who can provide personalized guidance based on your individual financial goals and circumstances.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 29, 2024Hindi
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i sold my property for 20 lacs, is it taxable for this year(2024- 2025), since i am a NRI, how much amount I have to pay as capital gain?. How to avoid this capital gain tax, Since i am planning to purchase a new property this year(2024) or 2025 using this money(gained from the property sold recently). Please advice
Ans: As an NRI, any capital gains arising from the sale of property in India are subject to taxation under the Income Tax Act, 1961. Here's how the taxation works and some strategies to minimize your tax liability:

Tax on Capital Gains: The capital gains tax is calculated based on the profit earned from the sale of the property. The gain is classified as either short-term capital gains (STCG) or long-term capital gains (LTCG), depending on the holding period of the property.
STCG: If the property is held for less than 24 months (two years), the gains are treated as short-term capital gains and taxed at your applicable slab rate.
LTCG: If the property is held for 24 months or more, the gains are treated as long-term capital gains. For NRIs, LTCG on the sale of property is taxed at a flat rate of 20%, with indexation benefits available.
Indexation Benefit: Indexation allows you to adjust the purchase price of the property for inflation, thereby reducing the taxable capital gains. This helps in minimizing the tax liability on long-term capital gains.
Exemptions and Deductions: Under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act, you can claim an exemption from LTCG tax if you invest the proceeds from the sale of the property in another residential property within a specified period. The exemption is available if the new property is purchased within one year before or two years after the sale, or within three years for under-construction properties. The entire amount of LTCG or the cost of the new property, whichever is lower, is eligible for exemption.
Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS): If you are unable to reinvest the proceeds from the sale immediately, you can deposit the gains into a Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS) with a designated bank. The amount deposited in the CGAS must be utilized for purchasing a new property within the specified time frame to claim the exemption.
Tax Consultation: Since tax laws can be complex and subject to change, it's advisable to consult with a tax advisor or chartered accountant specializing in NRI taxation. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help you navigate the tax implications effectively.
By planning your property transactions strategically and leveraging available tax-saving provisions, you can minimize your capital gains tax liability and maximize your returns from the sale of property.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1424 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Investments as here under - per year ( this is for me alone, similar numbers for wife as well ) Mutual Funds 750k, EPF 576k, NPS 290000, Insurance premium including Term insurance 90k, Shares and Golds around 10 lakh, Sukanya Smriddhi 1 lakh, PPF 1 lakh. Assets Mutual Funds and Stocks - 1.5 crores ( both wife and I ) 2 Houses - valued at around 5 crores ( jointly owned ) Liabilities Principal Outstanding for both the houses - 1.4 crores EMI of around Rs 1.8 lakhs per month , which wife and I service jointly. Total take home for both is about 5.5 lakhs per month. We have one daughter who is 6. Focus is to pay off the loans asap and retire with liquid investments of around 7 crores. We are both 38 at the moment. Please guide.
Ans: Thank you for sharing your financial details. It's great to see that you're actively managing your investments and planning for the future. Here are some suggestions based on your situation:

Loan Repayment Strategy: Since your focus is to pay off the loans as soon as possible, consider allocating a significant portion of your surplus income towards loan repayment. You can also explore options like increasing your EMI amount or making lump-sum payments whenever possible to accelerate the repayment process.
Asset Allocation: Review your asset allocation to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Since you have substantial investments in mutual funds, stocks, and real estate, ensure diversification across asset classes to minimize risk.
Retirement Planning: Aim to achieve your target of liquid investments worth 7 crores for retirement. Consider increasing your contributions to EPF, NPS, and mutual funds to accelerate wealth accumulation. Regularly review your retirement portfolio's performance and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.
Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund equivalent to at least 6-12 months' worth of expenses. This fund should be easily accessible and kept in liquid assets like savings accounts or short-term fixed deposits.
Insurance Coverage: It's great that you have term insurance in place. Review your insurance coverage periodically to ensure it meets your family's needs, especially considering your daughter's future education and other expenses.
Estate Planning: Given your significant assets, consider consulting with a legal advisor to draft a comprehensive estate plan that includes wills, trusts, and other arrangements to protect your assets and ensure they are distributed according to your wishes.
Regular Review: Periodically review your financial plan, taking into account any changes in your income, expenses, goals, or market conditions. Make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards achieving your objectives.
Remember, financial planning is a journey, and it's essential to stay disciplined and patient. By following a well-thought-out plan and making informed decisions, you can work towards achieving your financial goals and securing a comfortable future for your family.

...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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