How to Reduce HbA1c When You Already Eat Millets, Walk Daily, Avoid Sugar, and Are Unable to Lose Further Weight?

Ans: You have Rs. 8 lakh in a fixed deposit. This is a secure but low-return asset.

Your mutual fund portfolio is Rs. 14 lakh. Diversification here is important.

Your stock holdings are Rs. 5 lakh. Stocks add long-term growth potential.

Your PF balance is Rs. 6 lakh. This ensures retirement security.

Your NPS investment is Rs. 2 lakh. This has a lock-in till retirement.

Your home loan balance is Rs. 4 lakh. Paying it off early reduces interest costs.

Your salary is Rs. 1.70 lakh per month after tax. This gives you strong savings potential.

Current Investment Allocation
Rs. 50,000 per month in mutual funds. Actively managed funds can provide better returns than index funds.

Rs. 20,000 per month in RD. Consider shifting part of this to higher-return options.

Rs. 10,000 per month in stocks. This is good for long-term wealth creation.

Rs. 22,000 per month as a home loan EMI. Once paid off, you will have more surplus.

Rs. 25,000 per month as living expenses. This is well-controlled based on your income.

Home Loan Strategy
Your loan balance is small. Paying it off saves interest.

However, prepayment should not reduce your emergency or investment funds.

If the loan interest is low, investing may be better than repaying early.

Continue saving the excess and decide based on market conditions.

Investment Options for Additional Rs. 30,000-40,000 Per Month
Debt Mutual Funds
These are better than FDs and RDs for short-term needs.

They offer better tax efficiency and liquidity.

Choose funds with a good credit rating to reduce risk.

Balanced Funds
These provide a mix of equity and debt.

They offer stability with some growth potential.

Suitable for medium-risk investors looking for steady returns.

Corporate Bonds
High-rated bonds give better returns than fixed deposits.

Ensure that you choose AAA-rated options for safety.

They provide fixed income with lower risk.

Government Bonds and SDLs
These are safe and provide predictable returns.

You can invest through RBI Retail Direct.

They suit long-term low-risk investors.

PPF Contributions
PPF offers tax-free returns and long-term security.

You can increase contributions within the limit.

This is a risk-free and disciplined investment.

Gold ETFs or Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)
Gold helps diversify your portfolio.

SGBs offer interest along with capital appreciation.

ETFs provide liquidity without storage concerns.

Emergency Fund Consideration
Ensure at least six months’ expenses in a liquid fund.

Your FD can act as an emergency reserve.

Avoid locking all funds in long-term investments.

Tax Planning
Your investments should be tax-efficient.

Long-term mutual funds and bonds help reduce tax impact.

Debt mutual funds with indexation benefits are better than FDs.

Plan ELSS investments properly to avoid excess lock-in.

Finally
Your current financial position is strong, and you have a great savings rate.

Prioritise investments that offer stability and reasonable returns.

Avoid overexposure to low-return fixed deposits.

Debt funds, balanced funds, and corporate bonds can optimise your portfolio.

Keep your emergency fund secure but make sure excess cash is working for you.

Home loan prepayment is a good option but should not impact liquidity.

Continue your disciplined investment approach and reassess periodically.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ans: Your SIP performance needs a detailed evaluation. Let’s analyse it from different angles.

SIP-1: Performance Review
You invested Rs 3,65,000 over 6.1 years.
Your current returns stand at Rs 2,59,000.
Your returns are lower than expected over this period.
A good equity mutual fund should give better results in over 6 years.
The returns suggest either low-performing funds or market fluctuations.
Reviewing fund categories and allocation is important.
Check if your SIP is in large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap funds.
Large-cap funds tend to give lower returns but are stable.
Mid-cap and small-cap funds have higher risks but better long-term potential.
If this fund is underperforming its category, a switch is needed.
Compare your fund’s 5-year and 10-year category average returns.
If your SIP is in a debt fund, returns may be lower but steady.
Exit only after checking exit loads and taxation.
If this SIP is in an underperforming fund, consider shifting to a better one.
SIP-2: Performance Review
You invested Rs 60,000 in 1 year.
Your returns are just Rs 1,300.
This is a very short period to judge performance.
Equity mutual funds need at least 5 years to show real potential.
If this is a debt fund, returns will naturally be lower.
If this is an equity fund, check market trends before deciding.
SIPs work better when invested for long periods.
Continue this SIP for a few more years before judging.
Avoid making changes based on short-term volatility.
If this SIP is in an actively managed fund, review its fund manager’s history.
Key Areas to Improve
1. Portfolio Diversification

A balanced portfolio should have large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Mid-cap and small-cap funds give better long-term returns but are volatile.
If all your SIPs are in large-cap funds, returns may be lower.
Debt funds help for short-term stability, but they should not dominate equity SIPs.
2. Reviewing SIP Performance Regularly

Compare your SIP returns with the benchmark index.
Check category average returns before deciding on a switch.
If the fund consistently underperforms, move to a better one.
Review SIPs every 6 months for better portfolio management.
3. Expense Ratio and Fund Management

High expense ratios eat into your returns.
If your fund’s expense ratio is very high, look for a lower-cost alternative.
Actively managed funds with strong fund managers give better long-term returns.
Avoid direct funds as they require expertise to manage well.
4. Long-Term Strategy for Better Returns

SIPs need time to generate compounding benefits.
Avoid redeeming funds early due to short-term market movements.
Invest for a minimum of 5 years in equity funds for wealth creation.
Equity SIPs work best when held for 10-15 years.
Action Plan
Step 1: Analyse Fund Performance

Check if your SIPs are in large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap categories.
Compare with benchmark returns.
If any SIP underperforms for more than 3 years, consider shifting.
Step 2: Increase Allocation in High-Growth Sectors

Consider increasing exposure to high-growth funds.
Balanced allocation between large, mid, and small-cap funds is important.
Step 3: Stay Invested for the Long Term

SIPs need at least 5 years for equity growth.
Continue investing to benefit from compounding.
Avoid stopping SIPs due to short-term losses.
Step 4: Rebalance Portfolio Every Year

Shift funds if they consistently underperform over 3-5 years.
Align your investments based on financial goals.
Avoid emotional decisions based on short-term trends.
Final Insights
Your SIPs need some adjustments for better returns.
SIP-1 is underperforming over 6 years and needs a fund review.
SIP-2 is too new to judge and should be continued longer.
A diversified portfolio with large, mid, and small-cap funds works best.
Actively managed funds with strong fund managers give better long-term returns.
Review your funds every 6 months and rebalance yearly.
Staying invested for the long term will generate wealth.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ans: You own a home with no loan burden. This provides financial security.

You receive Rs. 1.20 lakh annually as rental income. This is a stable passive income.

Your son is employed, and your daughter is married. This reduces financial responsibilities.

You have Rs. 50 lakh in PPF and Rs. 30 lakh in bank FD. These are safe but low-return investments.

You will receive Rs. 50 lakh as a retirement fund next year. This can be used for financial stability and investment.

You own five acres of agricultural land but it is not generating much income.

You own a shop, but it is not operational yet. You plan to start a business after retirement.

Business Considerations
Starting a business after retirement is a good idea. It will keep you engaged and generate additional income.

Since you own a shop, consider starting a business that requires low investment and minimal risk.

Choose a business based on your skills, interest, and market demand.

Retail, rental, or franchise businesses could be good options.

You can also rent out the shop for a steady income if you don’t want to run a business yourself.

Investment Strategy
Your Rs. 50 lakh PPF is a long-term, tax-free investment. You can continue contributing till the limit.

Your Rs. 30 lakh FD provides safety but low returns. You can move part of it to better options.

Your retirement fund of Rs. 50 lakh should be invested wisely for income generation and growth.

You should allocate funds across different instruments for safety, liquidity, and growth.

Keep Rs. 10-15 lakh in liquid or short-term investments for emergencies.

Invest Rs. 20-25 lakh in balanced mutual funds for growth and stable returns.

Use Rs. 10-15 lakh in high-quality debt funds for low-risk steady income.

Agricultural Land Planning
Since the land is not generating much income, consider alternative uses.

Leasing the land for farming or commercial use can generate regular income.

You can explore high-value crops, dairy farming, or agro-tourism if feasible.

Selling a portion of the land to reinvest in better income-generating assets can be considered.

Retirement Income Planning
Your current rental income is Rs. 1.20 lakh per year. This is a small portion of your needs.

Your business or shop can supplement this income. Ensure it is well-planned and profitable.

Your investments should generate at least Rs. 3-4 lakh per year to maintain financial stability.

Keeping an emergency fund is crucial for unexpected expenses.

Ensure your portfolio has a mix of growth and income assets to sustain for the long term.

Health & Insurance Planning
At 57, medical expenses may rise in the future. Having health insurance is necessary.

If you don’t have adequate health coverage, buy a policy of at least Rs. 15-20 lakh.

Ensure your spouse is also covered under a good health insurance plan.

If you have an old policy, review it to check for sufficient coverage.

If you don’t have term insurance, there’s no need to buy one now.

Tax Planning
Your rental income is taxable. Declare it properly to avoid tax issues.

Interest from FDs is taxable. Use tax-efficient investment options like debt mutual funds.

PPF maturity proceeds are tax-free, so it is a good long-term asset.

If you start a business, maintain proper records to claim deductions and save taxes.

Final Insights
Your financial position is strong, but you need to plan for stable post-retirement income.

Starting a business is a great idea but should be well-planned to avoid losses.

Diversify your investments to balance safety, income, and growth.

Ensure proper health insurance coverage for future medical needs.

Tax planning will help you save more and manage finances efficiently.

Your shop and agricultural land can be used strategically for better income.

Make decisions considering long-term sustainability and financial security.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ans: Hello Amulya.
As early as possible, you reach out to your TCS HR representative to inquire about the status of your onboarding and request an update on your joining date either by email or by telephone conversation, if you know the contact number. You mentioned that you did not complete the course when you received the joining letter. Have to informed TCS that you have completed the course on time? If not, please inform them earliest. Even after informing to HR TCS in this regard, and after rescheduling, if you are not getting any response, then consider escalating the issue to a higher authority within TCS HR.
Here are a few suggestions- (1) Send a professional email politely requesting an update on your joining date and the reason for the delay. (2) Clearly mention your original joining date, the reason for rescheduling, and the current date. (3) Log in to the TCS career portal to see if there are any updates regarding your onboarding process. (4) Keep continuous follow-up with the HR team without irritation.
If satisfied, please like and follow me.
If dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

Ans: Praveen, Your daughter has great job choices in banking, finance, marketing, law, corporate secretary, mass communication, journalism, and hotel management even if she can pursue Commerce and Economics without Mathematics. Higher studies possibilities comprise B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce), B.A (Bachelor of Business Administration), BA Economics, Law (BA LLB/BVA LLB), Mass Communication & Journalism, and Hotel Management. Jobs in banking and finance; marketing and sales; HR; corporate secretary; legal profession; and entrepreneurship abound. Nonetheless, some elite institutions and universities could demand Mathematics, and disciplines like Data Science, Finance, and Actuarial Science mostly depend on it. She can still have a brilliant future in commerce and economics even if she hates maths greatly. She should investigate courses in Business Studies, Accountancy, or Entrepreneurship alongside Commerce & Economics since Applied Mathematics can be a useful substitute. Please note, The level of Mathematics required in Commerce and Economics depends on the specific subjects and career paths chosen. Commerce without Maths involves basic calculations and logic-based thinking, while Economics without Maths involves basic statistics, graphs, and logical reasoning. B.Sc. Economics requires higher Maths, while Commerce with Applied Maths covers practical topics like financial mathematics, probability, statistics, and logical reasoning. Career paths include B.Com, BBA, CS, Law, HR, Digital Marketing, and Entrepreneurship. If a daughter dislikes Maths but wants Commerce/Economics, Commerce without Maths is a safe choice. If she is not able to cope up with ICSCE Board, it is advisable to change her into CBSE. If she is struggling with the ICSE board, it is advisable to transfer her to CBSE. All the Best for Your Daughter's Prosperous Future.

Follow RediffGURUS to know more on 'Careers | Health | Money | Relationships'.

Ans: Hello;

You may buy immediate annuity for a sum of 2 Cr from a life insurance company.

At 6% annuity rate, it may provide you a monthly income of 1 L.

Since requirement of funds for higher education of your kids is close so it is not advisable to hold it in equity, being volatile by nature.

You may keep sum of 1.20 Cr in nationalised bank's cumulative FDs in lot size of 5 L/10 L.

You may hold bluechip large cap stocks worth 30 L for long-term horizon (7 yr+).

The ulip funds and NPS may be used to top-up annuity income at respective maturities.

Also ensure adequate health care insurance for yourself and your family.

Best wishes;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Hello;

You may sell the second flat and land site owned by you.

It may fetch you around 1.1 Cr(~50 L flat value and 60 L land site value).

Therefore your total corpus adds upto around 2.5 Cr(1.4 Cr FD+ 1.1 Cr RE sale proceeds).

You may keep a sum of 50 L towards higher education corpus for your child.

For the balance 2 Cr, if you buy an immediate annuity, you may expect a monthly income of around 1 L.

This conveniently meets your regular monthly expenses and provides a surplus.

Part of the surplus may be invested in equity savings type mutual funds so as build a corpus over 10 years which may be used to boost retirement income.

Maturity proceeds of various endowment policies which have subscribed to, may be used to step up the annuity income to account for inflation.

Annuities may have lower rate then FD but it is offered for long tenures thereby avoiding the reinvestment risk.

Ultimately it is your preference.

Do buy adequate healthcare insurance for yourself and your family.

Also a word of caution on plan to undertake trading and investment in direct stocks. Define a certain minimum risk capital (say 10 L) which you may not mind even if lost completely and then venture out for stock trading. No MTF, No FNO.

Also take trades based on own self study or recommendation from a registered research analyst. Trading based on social media and TV tips is a sure way to disaster.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: No it is not possible.

Ans: Hello
You need to pursue a 2-year Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from a recognized Dutch university, followed by a mandatory 2-year post-master training program after that only you will be able to practice.