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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2025

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
Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2025
Money

Hi Sir, I'm a 37 yrs aged salaried employee working in Ahmedabad with monthly in hand salary of 150 k after tax and with 2 kids my son(his age is around 5 yrs) and my daughter (her age is around 2 yrs). My financial details are as below:- 1) Term Life Insurance (2 crore) 2) Health insurance from 2 companies (15 lakhs) 3) Emergency fund (8 lakhs) 4) MF 12 year old (31.50 lakhs as on date) 5) My House (Approx. 60 lakhs) My Monthly expenses 1) 30 k Mutual Funds SIP (Which I use to increase 10% per year) 2) Home Loan EMI 14.75 k(Loan o/s 20.00 lakhs) 3) The cost of running House 50.00 k 4) Monthly savings approx. 50 to 55 k Stock Market Portfolio 1) I am not professional trader but from last 8 years I am doing trading with my own methods & with proper hedging. My Trading capital is approx. 35 lakhs and I use to get 50-55 k monthly from this but I never withdraw amount it's get accumulated due to that my capital is now 35.00 lakhs. My question is that I want to make sure that my both Childs will not get any hurdle in their Higher Education. I am having monthly 50 k extra amount from my salary but I am totally confused that whether I should put it in My Trading portfolio or in Mutual fund. Because mutual funds are giving approx. 9.40% after all deductions including tax and all I calculated on my own. I am getting 17-18% yearly from my trading but it's Risky. Kindly provide your valuable suggestion

Ans: You have made good progress in your financial life. You have already built a solid foundation for your family. Your clear focus on your children’s future shows great planning mindset. Now, let’s work on creating a 360-degree strategy for your question.

You want to know whether your monthly surplus of Rs. 50,000 should go into mutual funds or your trading portfolio. Your main goal is ensuring uninterrupted higher education for your kids.

Let’s evaluate this from multiple angles and develop a solid plan.

 

Family Protection and Stability
You have a term life cover of Rs. 2 crore. This is suitable at your current income level.

 

Health cover of Rs. 15 lakhs from two sources is fine for now. Make sure the cover continues post-retirement.

 

Emergency fund of Rs. 8 lakhs is adequate for 4 to 5 months. Keep this amount safe in a liquid or overnight fund.

 

Your house is fully self-occupied. That gives you emotional and financial stability. Home loan EMI is manageable.

 

Mutual Funds Assessment
You have Rs. 31.50 lakhs invested in mutual funds. Your SIP is Rs. 30,000 per month, with a 10% annual increase.

 

You’re getting approx. 9.4% post-tax. That’s a good estimate for long-term returns.

 

This approach brings compounding benefits with much less risk than trading.

 

For your children's higher education goals, mutual funds are reliable and steady.

 

Use regular plans through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP qualification. They offer personalised guidance and behaviour management.

 

Direct funds lack regular reviews and support. Emotional discipline is hard without a professional.

 

The ongoing advice from a certified professional justifies the slightly higher cost of regular funds.

 

Trading Portfolio Assessment
Your trading capital is Rs. 35 lakhs. You earn around Rs. 50-55k monthly, which is around 17–18% yearly.

 

You use hedging and discipline. That’s rare and commendable for an individual trader.

 

However, trading always carries higher risk. You are the single point of control.

 

In case of health issues, burnout, or market stress, trading income may drop suddenly.

 

Your trading profits are not yet withdrawn. That’s good for compounding. But you must not depend on it for key goals like children’s education.

 

Don’t overexpose family goals to a high-volatility asset class like trading.

 

Children’s Education Planning
Your son is 5 and daughter is 2. So you have 12 to 16 years to build the corpus.

 

For both kids, higher education costs will rise with inflation. Foreign education may need Rs. 1 to 1.5 crore or more.

 

To build this large corpus, you need consistent growth with low downside.

 

Mutual funds can meet this need better than trading due to lower volatility.

 

Set two separate mutual fund buckets: one for your son and another for your daughter.

 

Allocate long-term SIPs to each child. Use goal-based investing strategy.

 

Consider a staggered withdrawal strategy 2-3 years before each education milestone. This reduces market timing risk.

 

Use a mix of diversified equity and hybrid funds. They balance growth and safety.

 

Ideal Use of Rs. 50,000 Surplus
Out of your monthly surplus of Rs. 50,000, invest Rs. 35,000 into mutual funds for your children’s education.

 

Use the remaining Rs. 15,000 to reduce your home loan principal faster.

 

Early loan repayment saves interest. It also gives you psychological peace.

 

Avoid investing this surplus in trading portfolio for now. It already has adequate capital.

 

Refrain from increasing your trading capital unless your core goals are fully funded.

 

Your Existing Mutual Fund SIP
Continue the Rs. 30,000 monthly SIP. Keep increasing it by 10% annually as planned.

 

Split the SIP across child education goal, your own retirement, and optional goals like a travel fund.

 

Tag each SIP to a specific goal. It brings more clarity and purpose.

 

Review fund performance once every 6 months with a Certified Financial Planner.

 

Switch schemes only if underperformance is consistent for more than 2 years.

 

Avoid switching based on 6-month return charts or short-term news.

 

Home Loan Strategy
Outstanding loan is Rs. 20 lakhs. EMI is Rs. 14,750. Tenure might be long.

 

Use bonus or annual surplus to prepay 1–2 lakhs every year.

 

Keep one EMI worth of funds as buffer for safety.

 

Close the home loan before your younger child reaches 10 years.

 

This way, you’ll be loan-free before major education costs begin.

 

Tax Planning and Future Inflation
Factor in inflation of 6-7% per year for all long-term goals.

 

Use SIPs in growth option. Withdraw using Systematic Withdrawal Plan near goal years.

 

Mutual Fund Capital Gains are taxed as per new rules.

 

Equity LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. STCG is taxed at 20%.

 

Keep track of capital gains annually. Plan redemptions accordingly.

 

File income tax returns carefully showing mutual fund and trading income separately.

 

What to Avoid
Don’t invest in ULIPs, traditional insurance plans, or endowment policies.

 

Don’t add to your trading portfolio for now. Your current capital is enough.

 

Don’t invest for children’s education in FD or gold. These can’t beat education inflation.

 

Don’t go for index funds. They lack active risk management and sectoral allocation.

 

Actively managed funds by seasoned fund managers give better flexibility and performance.

 

Stay away from direct funds. A trusted MFD with CFP helps avoid behavioural mistakes.

 

Don’t stop your SIPs during market fall. That’s when wealth is truly built.

 

Don’t use annuities. They are tax inefficient and inflexible.

 

Risk Management and Will
Keep your emergency fund in a safe and liquid form. Update it annually.

 

Nominate spouse and children in all investments.

 

Prepare a simple will. Mention mutual fund folios, trading accounts, and home ownership clearly.

 

Maintain a one-pager with account numbers, folio IDs, and insurance policy details.

 

Review this once a year with spouse. Keep it safe.

 

Monitoring and Review
Review your portfolio once every 6 months with your certified planner.

 

Don’t panic if markets fall. Your mutual fund SIPs benefit from this.

 

Review trading portfolio quarterly. Set a drawdown rule to limit risk.

 

Have a goal-wise dashboard. Track how much is accumulated for each child.

 

Rebalance your mutual fund portfolio every 2–3 years.

 

Increase SIPs as your income grows. Keep lifestyle inflation under check.

 

Final Insights
Your current setup is already strong. You have built a good financial foundation.

 

Your clarity about goal and savings discipline is rare and appreciable.

 

Now is the time to shift more focus on guaranteed future needs like child education.

 

Mutual funds bring low-risk, long-term compounding. Use it as your main tool.

 

Keep trading as a wealth booster. But don’t use it for children’s education funding.

 

Stick to regular mutual fund plans with goal-based approach through a trusted MFD with CFP credentials.

 

Avoid over-diversifying or over-trading. Simplicity and patience bring true financial freedom.

 

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 17, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 26, 2024Hindi
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We have invested 3k from last 4 years in Aditya Birla mutual fund equity based. And last year kotak mid cap and small cap of 7k and 3k respectively. Other than this we invest in NPS 50k per year from last 5 years and have two lic policies of 5 lalk sum assured. We have two kids aged 7 and 4. Earning is 1 lakh . Expenses are home loan 31k for 32 lakh loan of 15 years , 3 years are done. Monthly expenses are 31k emi, 30k home, 15 k parents. Please suggest if this is a good way to invest for future of our children or any changes that need to be done we plan to keep investing in mutual funds for long term. Kotak Balanced Advantage Fund Growth (Regular Plan) and Kotak Small Cap Fund - Growth (Regular Plan) (Erstwhile Kotak Mid-Cap). No term insurance and there is company health insurance of my husband. I earn 10k per month.
Ans: Current Financial Situation

You have a combined monthly income of Rs. 1.10 lakh.

You have two kids aged 7 and 4.

Your monthly expenses include:

Rs. 31k home loan EMI
Rs. 30k home expenses
Rs. 15k for parents
Current Investments

You invest Rs. 3k per month in Aditya Birla mutual fund (equity-based) for the last 4 years.

You invest Rs. 7k per month in Kotak Mid Cap fund and Rs. 3k per month in Kotak Small Cap fund (last year).

You invest Rs. 50k per year in NPS for the last 5 years.

You have two LIC policies with a sum assured of Rs. 5 lakhs each.

Assessment of Current Investments

Your current mutual fund investments are good for long-term growth.

Equity mutual funds, especially mid-cap and small-cap, offer high growth potential.

NPS is a good investment for retirement savings, with tax benefits.

LIC policies provide some security but have lower returns compared to mutual funds.

Recommended Changes

Increase SIP in Mutual Funds

Consider increasing your SIPs in equity mutual funds.

This will help in wealth accumulation for your children's future.

Focus on a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.

Balanced Advantage Fund

Balanced Advantage Funds balance equity and debt.

They provide moderate growth with lower risk.

Consider allocating more to these funds for stability.

Avoiding Direct Funds

Direct funds need active management and expertise.

Regular funds, through a Certified Financial Planner, offer professional guidance.

They provide personalized advice and ongoing support.

Health and Term Insurance

You mentioned company health insurance.

Ensure it covers your entire family adequately.

Consider taking a separate term insurance policy for your husband.

Term insurance provides financial security in case of unforeseen events.

Review LIC Policies

LIC policies have lower returns compared to mutual funds.

Consider surrendering or partially surrendering them.

Reinvest the proceeds in high-return mutual funds.

Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund for unforeseen expenses.

This should cover 6-12 months of living expenses.

Keep this fund in a liquid asset like a savings account or liquid mutual fund.

Final Insights

Your current investments are on the right track.

Increasing SIPs and adding balanced advantage funds can provide stability.

Ensure adequate insurance coverage and maintain an emergency fund.

Regular reviews and professional advice will help you stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 04, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I am 33 year old with monthly income of 1.3 lac. My wife is also working with monthly income of 65k. I have home loan of 35 lac for which EMI is increased upto 50k now and remaining term is 4.5 years.My wife and me are collectively investing in mutual funds for Rs 40k/month in multiple small , mid and large cap funds. My wife and me have collectively 8 lac in MF's now. Apart from this I have 2.5 lac in equity shares. We want to save and invest for kids future education. (Currently one kid 3 years old and expecting one in few months) Also want to make retirement fund planning.
Ans: You and your wife earn Rs 1.95 lakh per month. You have a home loan of Rs 35 lakh with an EMI of Rs 50k. The loan term left is 4.5 years. You invest Rs 40k per month in mutual funds. You have Rs 8 lakh in MFs and Rs 2.5 lakh in equities.

Financial Goals
Kids' Future Education: Plan and save for children's education.
Retirement Fund: Build a retirement corpus.
Saving and Investment Strategy
1. Continue with SIPs in Mutual Funds
Consistent Investing: Continue Rs 40k/month in SIPs across small, mid, and large cap funds.
Diversification: Diversify to balance risk and return.
2. Increase Investment Gradually
Step-up SIP: Increase SIP amount annually to enhance growth.
Bonus and Increments: Allocate part of bonuses and increments to SIPs.
3. Kids' Education Fund
Dedicated Fund: Start a dedicated SIP for kids' education.
Education Costs: Estimate future education costs and plan accordingly.
Long-Term Growth: Invest in equity-oriented funds for long-term growth.
4. Retirement Planning
Target Corpus: Determine the desired retirement corpus.
Long-Term SIPs: Invest in long-term SIPs for retirement.
Diversified Portfolio: Maintain a mix of equity, debt, and balanced funds.
5. Equity Shares
Review Portfolio: Regularly review and rebalance your equity portfolio.
Long-Term Growth: Focus on long-term growth rather than short-term gains.
6. Debt Management
Home Loan Prepayment: Consider prepaying the home loan when possible.
Reduced Interest: Early repayment reduces interest burden.
Professional Guidance
1. Certified Financial Planner
Personalized Plan: Get a tailored investment plan from a CFP.
Regular Review: Periodically review and adjust your financial plan.
2. Active Fund Management
Professional Management: Actively managed funds can adapt to market changes.
Better Returns: Aim for better returns than index funds.
Analytical Insights
Long-Term Growth
Power of Compounding: Regular SIPs benefit from compounding over time.
Market Trends: Equity markets usually provide higher returns in the long run.
Risk Management
Diversification: Spread investments across various funds to mitigate risk.
Professional Advice: A CFP can help navigate market volatility.
Final Insights
You and your wife have a solid financial foundation. Continue with your SIPs and increase investments gradually. Focus on dedicated funds for kids' education and retirement. Consider prepaying your home loan to reduce interest. Regularly review your investments with a certified financial planner. This disciplined approach will ensure a secure financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 18, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi, Im 42 year male and we are a family of 4. I have 2 kids 13 year boy and 6 year Girl, my wife is also working and together we make approx with a monthly income of 3.5 Lkhs. We have personal loans approx monthly 1.75 lakhs and there is 6 more years to clos. Additional 20 Lakhs loan is there with EMI of 25000 INR (19 more years pending). Please note that I have taken 2 CR Term (untill 70 yrs) , 2 Lkhs investment in Mutual fuds another 2 Lakhs investments in Stocks.(im new to Mutual funds and stocks) Also couple of investments in Plots. I dont own a house however we are with my parents in their house. As far as expenses are concerned 25-30% goes from our earnings monthly. I need advice on how to secure the future of my kids and ourselves such as Kids education related investments, pension planning, medical insurances etc. What should be the allocation I have to make. Thanks in advance.
Ans: At 42, you and your wife have a stable monthly income of Rs. 3.5 lakhs. Your monthly commitments include Rs. 1.75 lakhs in personal loan EMIs, Rs. 25,000 for a separate loan, and 25-30% of your income goes toward household expenses. You have term insurance worth Rs. 2 crores, Rs. 2 lakhs each in mutual funds and stocks, and investments in plots. However, you do not own a house and live with your parents.

This is a strong starting point, but let's fine-tune your financial plan to secure your future and that of your children.

Review of Current Debt Situation
Your current loans, totaling Rs. 1.75 lakhs monthly for personal loans and Rs. 25,000 for another loan, are significant. The personal loan has six years left, while the other loan extends for 19 more years.

Action: Prioritize debt repayment. Focus on clearing the higher-interest personal loans as soon as possible. This will free up a substantial portion of your income for investments.

Recommendation: Avoid taking new loans until existing ones are cleared. This will prevent any unnecessary strain on your finances.

Term Insurance Review
You have wisely secured term insurance of Rs. 2 crores until 70 years of age. This is a good safety net for your family.

Sufficiency Check: Ensure that this coverage is enough to support your family in your absence. Consider increasing it if your liabilities or responsibilities grow.

Note: There is no need for ULIPs or other insurance-linked investment products. Continue with term insurance and focus on pure investments separately.

Investment in Mutual Funds and Stocks
You have started with Rs. 2 lakhs in mutual funds and Rs. 2 lakhs in stocks. Since you are new to both, it's essential to proceed with caution.

Mutual Funds: Stick to mutual funds rather than direct stocks. Mutual funds, particularly actively managed ones, provide professional management and diversification. This reduces risk and increases the potential for returns.

Direct Stocks: Direct stock investments require a deep understanding and time commitment. Given your busy schedule and existing commitments, it's safer to focus on mutual funds.

Action: Increase your SIPs in mutual funds. Begin with an additional Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000 per month. Focus on equity mutual funds for long-term growth. These funds will serve as a robust foundation for future financial goals.

Education Planning for Your Children
Your children, aged 13 and 6, will need substantial funds for their education in the coming years. Education costs are rising rapidly, so planning is crucial.

Long-Term Planning: Start dedicated SIPs for each child's education. The amount you set aside should be based on projected costs for higher education. Consider allocating Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000 per month per child. Equity mutual funds are ideal for this goal.

Use of Existing Investments: Part of your existing investments can be earmarked for this purpose. Regularly review and adjust based on the progress of your funds.

Retirement and Pension Planning
You and your wife need to start thinking about your retirement. You have around 18 years until retirement, giving you ample time to build a strong corpus.

Retirement Corpus: Begin investing Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month in mutual funds dedicated to retirement. Focus on equity mutual funds, as they offer the potential for higher returns over the long term.

Avoid Direct Stocks: Given the long-term nature of retirement planning, it's advisable to avoid direct stocks. They are riskier and require constant monitoring.

Pension Planning: Consider the National Pension System (NPS) as part of your retirement planning. It offers tax benefits and a steady stream of income post-retirement.

Medical Insurance
Securing adequate medical insurance is vital for protecting your family from unforeseen health expenses.

Current Situation: Assess your current health insurance coverage. Ensure it covers all family members, including your parents if they are dependent on you.

Enhancement: Consider a family floater policy with a sum insured of at least Rs. 10 lakhs. Add a top-up plan for additional coverage. Ensure that critical illness cover is also included.

Action: Allocate around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 annually for comprehensive health insurance. This will safeguard your financial goals from being derailed by medical emergencies.

Future Home Purchase Considerations
While you currently live with your parents, owning a home might be on your mind.

Recommendation: Delay any home purchase until your debts are significantly reduced. This will allow you to build a larger down payment and reduce the need for a substantial home loan.

Current Focus: Instead, focus on clearing existing loans and building a strong investment portfolio.

Final Insights
Your financial situation is strong, but there’s room for optimization. Focus on clearing debt, increasing SIPs in mutual funds, and ensuring you have adequate insurance coverage. Prioritize your children's education and your retirement planning. By sticking to mutual funds and avoiding the complexity of direct stocks, you can build a stable and growing portfolio that will secure your family’s future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 05, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 24, 2025
Money
Hi Sir, I'm a 37 yrs aged salaried employee working in Ahmedabad with monthly in hand salary of 150 k after tax and with 2 kids my son(his age is around 5 yrs) and my daughter (her age is around 2 yrs). My financial details are as below:- 1) Term Life Insurance (2 crore) 2) Health insurance from 2 companies (15 lakhs) 3) Emergency fund (8 lakhs) 4) MF 12 year old (31.50 lakhs as on date) 5) My House (Approx. 60 lakhs) My Monthly expenses 1) 30 k Mutual Funds SIP (Which I use to increase 10% per year) 2) Home Loan EMI 14.75 k(Loan o/s 20.00 lakhs) 3) The cost of running House 50.00 k 4) Monthly savings approx. 50 to 55 k Stock Market Portfolio 1) I am not professional trader but from last 8 years I am doing trading with my own methods & with proper hedging. My Trading capital is approx. 35 lakhs and I use to get 50-55 k monthly from this but I never withdraw amount it's get accumulated due to that my capital is now 35.00 lakhs. My question I want to make sure that my both Childs will not get any hurdle in their Higher Education. I am having monthly 50 k extra amount from my salary but I am totally confused that whether I should put it in My Trading portfolio or in Mutual fund. Because mutual funds are giving approx. 9.40% after all deductions including tax and all I calculated on my own. I am getting 17-18% yearly from my trading but it's Risky. I want to ask that whether should I put this extra 50k to secure my Childs Higher studies.
Ans: You’ve done a lot of good things already.

Strong insurance, growing MF corpus, steady income, and careful trading discipline.

You’re asking the right question at the right time — How do I secure my children’s education without any risk?

This is a perfect moment to design a 360-degree financial strategy focused on certainty, not just returns.

Let’s assess this together.

Priority: Ensure Certainty for Your Children’s Future
Higher education is a non-negotiable financial goal

You must ensure it happens with 100% confidence, even in worst-case scenarios

For this, you should not take unnecessary risk on this goal

Your Rs. 50K/month surplus must work safely towards this target

Your trading income can continue — but should not be used for this goal

That money can be used later for early retirement or wealth building

Let us now break this down in practical terms.

Education Goals Should Be Firewalled from Market Risk
Your son is 5. He will need funds at 18. That’s 13 years ahead.

Your daughter is 2. Her goal is about 16 years away.

You have a clear time horizon, which is a huge advantage

This allows disciplined planning using equity mutual funds

But not every kind of equity exposure is suitable for this purpose

Volatility is good for long-term wealth — but not for goal-specific milestones

Hence, use mutual funds wisely, not randomly

Why Trading Is NOT Right for Education Goals
Let’s accept — you are skilled in trading.

Still, it has no place in goal-based investing.

Trading is always risky, no matter how skilled you are

A single bad year can wipe out returns or even capital

For children’s education, you need stability, not thrills

Trading may be used to create wealth, not to meet fixed goals

It’s like doing stunts when taking your kids to school — not required

So, don’t mix trading portfolio with education funding

Keep both completely separate

Mutual Funds: The Better Path for Goal Certainty
You already have Rs. 31.5 lakhs in mutual funds.

This is a great start.

Add your Rs. 50K/month to these investments for next 10 to 15 years

Stick to diversified equity mutual funds managed by experienced professionals

Prefer regular funds through Certified Financial Planner

Avoid direct funds — they give no support or guidance when markets fall

Regular funds help you stay on track through proper advice and handholding

Most investors in direct plans panic or make mistakes during corrections

Also avoid index funds — let me explain why.

Why Index Funds Are Wrong for Education Goals
Index funds are popular because of low cost.

But cost is not the full story.

Index funds blindly follow the index, good or bad

They cannot switch sectors or stocks during market crisis

In 2008 and 2020, index funds fell hard and took long to recover

No strategy, no protection, no risk filter — only blind following

For children’s education, this is not acceptable

You need actively managed funds with clear strategy and consistent performance

Fund manager must take calls during bull and bear phases

That’s why actively managed funds in regular plans are ideal.

Suggested Mutual Fund Strategy (Without Scheme Names)
You should have a structured portfolio with these layers:

Flexi Cap Fund: Core growth, across market caps

Large & Mid Cap Fund: Balanced growth with limited volatility

Aggressive Hybrid Fund: Mix of equity and debt, smoother ride

Mid Cap Fund (Optional): Only if risk appetite is high

You don’t need small cap, sectoral, or international funds for this goal.

Keep portfolio simple, diversified and review annually

Avoid new fund offers or thematic stories — no relevance to education goals

SIPs with Annual Step-Up = Perfect Tool
You are already stepping up SIP by 10% yearly

This is an excellent habit.

It helps fight education inflation (around 8% yearly in India)

It uses compounding effectively with growing contribution

Continue Rs. 50K SIP in 3-4 carefully selected schemes

Review performance yearly with your Certified Financial Planner

If any fund underperforms for 3 years, switch it safely to better option

Don’t decide based on one-year returns or market noise

Use Goal-Specific Buckets for Children
It helps to break your SIPs into 2 buckets:

Bucket A: Son’s Higher Education

SIP for next 13 years

Use Flexi Cap + Large & Mid Cap + Hybrid mix

Bucket B: Daughter’s Higher Education

SIP for next 16 years

Slightly more aggressive portfolio acceptable

This way, goals remain separate, tracked, and managed individually

Don’t combine all goals into one single MF portfolio

Use STP for Final 3 Years Before Goal
When each child is 15, shift SIP value to low-risk funds

Use Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) to move from equity to debt gradually

This protects the amount from sudden market crashes

This should be planned in advance

CFP will help manage these switches without emotional panic

Many investors ignore this and lose money just before goal date

You must protect capital when goal is near

Tax Awareness Is Also Important
New tax rules are simple:

Equity mutual funds:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%
STCG taxed at 20%

Debt mutual funds:
Taxed as per your income slab

Keep records of all redemptions for capital gain tracking

During withdrawal, your Certified Financial Planner will help with efficient tax management

Emergency Fund and Insurance Are Strong Already
You already have Rs. 8 lakh emergency fund.

Also Rs. 2 crore term life cover and Rs. 15 lakh health cover.

This makes your foundation very strong.

So your Rs. 50K/month can be safely invested for future goals.

You don’t need more insurance, ULIPs, or endowment plans.

If you had LIC or any investment-cum-insurance — I would ask you to surrender.

Thankfully, your structure is clean and efficient.

Your Trading Portfolio Can Be Used Differently
Right now you have Rs. 35 lakh trading capital.

You are not withdrawing anything, which is fine.

Continue this — but use it for building long-term corpus.

Maybe for early retirement, luxury purchases or legacy.

But don’t consider this as children’s education backup

Because it’s not protected from market risk or psychological pressure

Use this power responsibly, not emotionally

Discipline is key — don’t mix trading and long-term investing

Simple Action Plan for You
Continue current SIPs with 10% step-up

Add new Rs. 50K SIP in carefully selected mutual funds

Keep children’s education funds separate from other goals

Avoid index funds, direct plans, ULIPs, and NFOs

Stick to regular plans through Certified Financial Planner

Review all funds every 12 months

From age 15 of child, shift money to debt slowly through STP

Let trading profits accumulate separately — don’t rely on it for family goals

Maintain emergency fund as it is — don’t use for investing

Keep tracking your goals, not the market

Finally
You are a responsible father and thoughtful investor.

Your current lifestyle, savings, and planning show high maturity.

Your children’s future can be secured easily — if you separate goal-based investing from trading returns.

Use mutual funds as your education engine.

Stay disciplined and guided by Certified Financial Planner.

That’s how you will not just grow wealth, but achieve goals without stress.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 29, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 34 year old male earning 80k per month .home loan emi 20k..ssy for my 3 year old daughter monthly 10k... investing in ppf monthly 10k...sip 2.5k monthly..nps 3.5 k monthly gold etf 3k monthly.. outstanding home loan amount 14lakhs...now I have lumpsum of 5laks is it wise decision to partly pay my home loan or to invest in mutual fund to create wealth...next question the investments I am making today is enough to secure my daughter future for her studies and marriage or do I need to change anything pls guide on that ...I also have a term insurance
Ans: You are already making disciplined efforts.
Now let’s look at your situation from all angles.

Your Current Investment Snapshot
Salary: Rs 80,000 per month

Home Loan EMI: Rs 20,000

SSY: Rs 10,000 monthly for daughter

PPF: Rs 10,000 monthly

NPS: Rs 3,500 monthly

SIP (Mutual Funds): Rs 2,500 monthly

Gold ETF: Rs 3,000 monthly

Term Insurance: Already in place

Lump sum: Rs 5 lakh in hand

Home Loan Outstanding: Rs 14 lakh

You are saving around Rs 29,000 each month outside of EMI.
This is a solid start.

Should You Part Pay Your Home Loan?
Pros of part prepayment now:

You save a lot of interest over time

You reduce your EMI burden for future

It brings peace of mind and security

Good if job stability is uncertain

Cons of part prepayment now:

You lose opportunity to earn better returns

You reduce liquidity buffer in hand

You miss compounding benefit of mutual funds

Now, the rate of home loan is around 8–9%.
Good mutual funds can give better long-term returns than this.

But you don’t have an emergency fund right now.
That is more important than prepaying loans or investing.

What You Should Do With the Rs 5 Lakhs
Split the amount into 3 purposes:

1. Emergency fund: Keep Rs 1.5 lakhs in savings account or FD

This gives peace during job loss or medical emergency

Use only during true need

2. Mutual fund investment: Use Rs 2.5 lakhs for long-term growth

Choose actively managed equity mutual funds

Avoid index funds and ETFs

Index funds copy the market.

They don’t protect during market crash.

Actively managed funds are guided by experts.

These adapt to market changes quickly.

3. Loan prepayment: Pay Rs 1 lakh to reduce principal

Ask bank to apply it toward principal

This lowers your interest burden

It also shortens tenure quietly

This split will give you balance between safety and growth.

Is Your Current Investment Enough for Daughter?
SSY Rs 10,000 monthly is a strong start.
This will mature when she turns 21.
Use this only for marriage or backup.

But for education, add mutual funds.

Higher education costs will go up

Abroad studies may cost Rs 50–80 lakhs

SSY is not enough alone

Add SIPs for education goal

Increase SIP gradually to Rs 5,000–6,000 per month.
Invest through MFD with CFP certification only.
Don’t go for direct plans.
Direct funds seem cheap, but offer no personalised advice.
You miss rebalancing and asset allocation help.

Regular funds with MFD offer better tracking and handholding.

Your Retirement Needs and Strategy
At 34 years, you have 26 years left for retirement.
Current NPS is only Rs 3,500 per month.
You need to grow it to at least Rs 10,000 monthly over time.
Also increase PPF after SSY ends.

Mutual funds are your main wealth builders.
Don't rely on Gold ETF alone.
Gold works for protection—not growth.
Limit gold allocation to 10–15% only.

Build a retirement corpus of Rs 2–3 crore minimum.

Suggestions to Improve Further
Increase SIP every year by 10–15%

Shift lump sum to mutual funds in 3–5 instalments

Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) for that

Review goals once every 6 months

Track fund performance yearly with MFD help

Use FD only for emergency and short goals

Avoid ULIPs, endowment, or combo plans

Keep all insurance and investment separate.

Avoid These Mistakes
Don’t invest in direct mutual funds

Don’t use index funds blindly

Don’t invest more in gold than required

Don’t delay term insurance update when salary grows

Don’t stop SIPs during market dips

Don’t ignore inflation while planning daughter’s future

Discipline + Review = True Growth

Final Insights
You are doing great for your age and income.
Your habits are already strong.
Now add clarity, balance, and regular review.

Keep 3 goals separate:

Daughter's education (SIP + MF only)

Daughter’s marriage (SSY can be used)

Your retirement (NPS + MF + PPF)

Don’t mix goals and investments.
Grow SIPs as salary increases.
Keep emergency fund always ready.
Review with a certified financial planner every year.

Rs 5 lakhs should be used wisely—part for safety, part for growth.
That’s how wealth is built and family protected.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 19, 2025Hindi
Money
I have a credit card written off status on my cibil . This is about 2 lakhs on 2 credit card. I made last payment in 2019 and was unable to make payments later as I lost my job.Now i have stable job and can pay off 2 lkahs, My worry is will the bank take 2 laksh or add interest on that and ask me to pay 8 or 10 lakhs for this ? can anyone advice if this situation is similar and have you heard about any solutions . I can make payment of 2 lakhs outstandng as reflecting in my cibil report
Ans: First, appreciate your honesty and responsibility.
You faced job loss and survived a difficult phase.
Now you have income and intent to close dues.
That itself is a strong and positive step.

There are solutions available.

What “written off” actually means

– “Written off” does not mean loan is forgiven.
– It means bank stopped active recovery temporarily.
– The amount is still legally payable.
– Bank or recovery agency can approach you.

– CIBIL shows this as serious default.
– But it is not a criminal case.

Your biggest worry clarified clearly
Will bank ask Rs. 8–10 lakhs now?

In most practical cases, NO.

– Banks rarely recover full inflated amounts.
– Interest technically keeps accruing.
– But banks know recovery is difficult.

– They prefer one-time settlement.
– They want closure, not long fights.

What usually happens in real life

– Outstanding shown may be Rs. 2 lakhs.
– Bank internal system may show higher amount.

– They may initially demand more.
– This is a negotiation starting point.

– Final settlement usually happens near:
– Principal amount
– Or slightly above principal

– Rs. 8–10 lakhs demand is rarely enforced.

Why your position is actually strong

– Default happened due to job loss.
– Time gap is several years.
– Account is already written off.

– You are now willing to pay.
– You can offer lump sum.

Banks respect lump sum offers.

What you should NOT do

– Do not panic and pay blindly.
– Do not accept verbal promises.
– Do not pay without written confirmation.

– Do not pay partial amounts casually.
– That weakens your negotiation position.

Correct step-by-step approach
Step 1: Contact bank recovery department

– Call customer care.
– Ask for recovery or settlement team.
– Avoid agents initially.

Step 2: Ask for settlement option

Use clear language:
– You lost job earlier.
– Situation is stable now.
– You want to close accounts fully.

Ask specifically for:
– One Time Settlement option
– Written settlement letter

Step 3: Negotiate calmly

– Start by offering Rs. 2 lakhs.
– Mention it matches CIBIL outstanding.

– Bank may counter with higher number.
– This is normal negotiation.

– Many cases close between:
– 100% to 130% of principal

Rarely more, if negotiated well.

Important: Written settlement letter

Before paying anything, ensure letter states:

– Full and final settlement
– No further dues will remain
– Account will be closed
– CIBIL status will be updated

Never rely on phone assurance.

How payment should be made

– Pay only to bank account.
– Avoid cash payments.
– Keep receipts safely.

– After payment, collect closure letter.

Impact on your CIBIL score

Be very clear on this point.

– “Written off” will not disappear immediately.
– Settlement changes status to “Settled”.

– “Settled” is better than “Written off”.
– But still considered negative initially.

– Score improves gradually over time.

What improves CIBIL after settlement

– No new defaults
– Timely payments on future credit
– Low credit utilisation
– Patience

Usually improvement seen within 12–24 months.

Should you wait or settle now?

Settling now is better because:

– Old defaults block future loans.
– Housing loan becomes difficult.
– Car loan interest becomes high.

– Emotional stress continues otherwise.

Closure brings mental relief.

Common fear: “What if they harass me?”

– Harassment has reduced significantly.
– RBI rules are stricter now.
– Written settlement protects you.

– If harassment happens, complain formally.

Have others faced this situation?

Yes, thousands.

– Many lost jobs after 2018–2020.
– Credit card defaults increased widely.

– Most cases got settled reasonably.
– You are not alone.

Things working in your favour

– Old default
– Written-off status already marked
– Willingness to pay lump sum
– Stable income now

This gives negotiation power.

After settlement: what next

– Avoid credit cards initially.
– Start with small secured products.

– Pay everything on time.
– Keep credit usage low.

– Score will heal gradually.

Final reassurance

You will not be forced to pay Rs. 8–10 lakhs suddenly.
Banks prefer realistic recovery.
Your readiness to pay Rs. 2 lakhs is valuable.

Handle this calmly and formally.
Take everything in writing.
You are doing the right thing now.

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10859 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 18, 2025Hindi
Career
I am 41 year's old bp and sugar patient i completed 3years articleship for the purpose CA cource,now iam looking for paid assistant Job because still iam not clear my ipcc exams salary very low 10k per month,can I quit finance and accounting job because of my health please advise or suggest
Ans: At 41 years old with hypertension and diabetes, having completed 3 years of CA articleship but unable to clear IPCC exams while earning ?10,000 monthly, continuing in high-stress finance/accounting roles presents genuine health risks. Research confirms that sedentary, high-pressure accounting and finance jobs significantly exacerbate hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes through chronic stress, irregular routines, and poor sleep quality—particularly affecting professionals aged 35-50. Yes, quitting finance is medically justified. Rather than abandoning your accounting foundation, strategically transition to less stressful, specialized accounting/finance roles utilizing your three years of articleship experience while prioritizing health. Pursue three alternative certifications requiring 6-18 months of flexible, online study—compatible with managing your health conditions while maintaining income. These certifications leverage your existing accounting knowledge, command premium salaries (?6-12 LPA+), offer remote/flexible work options reducing stress, and require minimal additional skill upgradation beyond what you've already invested.? Option 1 – Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) / Forensic Accounting Specialist: Complete NISM Forensic Investigation Level 1&2 (100% online, 6-12 months) or Indiaforensic's Certified Forensic Accounting Professional (distance learning, flexible). Your CA articleship background is ideal for fraud detection roles. Salary: ?6-9 LPA; Stress Level: Moderate (deadline-driven analysis, not client management); Work-Life Balance: High (project-based, remote-capable); Skill Upgradation Needed: Fraud investigation techniques, financial forensics software—both taught in certification.? Option 2 – ACCA (Association of Chartered Accountants) or US CPA: More flexible than CA (study at own pace, global recognition, no lengthy articleship repeat). ACCA requires 13-15 months online study with five paper exemptions (since you've completed articleship); US CPA takes 12 months post-articleship. Salary: ?7-12 LPA (India), higher internationally; Stress Level: Lower (flexible study schedule, no rigid mentorship like CA); Work-Life Balance: Excellent (flexible learning, no daily office stress initially); Skill Upgradation: International accounting standards, tax practices, audit frameworks—all covered in coursework. Option 3 – CMA USA (Cost & Management Accounting): Specializes in management accounting and financial planning vs. auditing. Requires two exams, 200 study hours total, completable in 8-12 months. Highly preferred by MNCs, IT companies, startups for finance manager/FP&A roles. Salary: ?8-12 LPA initially, potentially ?20+ LPA as Finance Manager/CFO; Stress Level: Low (CMA roles focus on strategic planning, less client pressure); Work-Life Balance: Excellent (corporate roles often more structured than CA practice); Skill Upgradation: Management accounting principles, data analytics, financial modeling—valuable for modern finance roles.? Final Advice: Quit immediately if current role is deteriorating health. Register for ACCA or US CPA within 30 days—most flexible, globally recognized, requiring minimal additional investment. Simultaneously pursue Forensic Accounting certification (6-month concurrent track) as backup specialization. Target roles as Compliance Analyst, Forensic Accountant, or Corporate Finance Manager—all leverage your articleship, offer 40-45 hour weeks (vs. CA practice's 50-60), enable remote work, and command ?8-12 LPA within 18 months. Your health is irreplaceable; your accounting foundation is valuable enough to transition strategically rather than completely exit.? All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 19, 2025

Money
I am 62 years of age. i have bought Max life smart wealth long term plan policy and Max life smart life advantage growth per pulse insta income fixed returns policies 2 /3 years ago. Are these policies good as i want to get benefits when i am alive. is there a way i can close " max life smart wealth long term plan policy ", as i am facing difficulty in paying up the premium. The agents don't give clear picture. please suggest.
Ans: You have shown courage by asking the right question.
Many seniors suffer silently with unsuitable policies.
Your concern about living benefits is very valid.
Your age makes clarity extremely important now.

» Your current life stage reality
– You are 62 years old.
– You are in active retirement planning phase.
– Capital protection matters more than growth.

– Cash flow comfort is critical.
– Stress-free income is more important than returns.
– Long lock-ins create anxiety now.

» Understanding the type of policies you bought
– These are investment-cum-insurance policies.
– They mix protection and investment together.

– Such products are complex by design.
– Benefits are spread over long durations.

– Charges are high in early years.
– Liquidity remains very limited initially.

» Core issue with such policies at your age
– These policies suit younger earners better.
– They need long holding periods.

– At 62, time horizon is shorter.
– You need access to money now.

– Premium commitment becomes stressful.
– Returns remain unclear for many years.

» Focus on your stated need
– You want benefits while alive.
– You want income and flexibility.

– You do not want confusion.
– You want transparency.

– This is absolutely reasonable.

» Reality check on living benefits
– Living benefits are slow in such policies.
– Early years give very little value.

– Most benefits come much later.
– This delays usefulness.

– Income promises are often misunderstood.
– Actual cash flow is usually low.

» Why agents fail to give clarity
– Products are difficult to explain honestly.
– Commissions are front-loaded.

– Explanations focus on maturity numbers.
– Risks and lock-ins get downplayed.

– This creates disappointment later.

» Premium stress is a clear warning sign
– Difficulty paying premium is serious.
– It should never be ignored.

– Forced continuation hurts retirement peace.
– This signals mismatch with your needs.

» Can such policies be closed
– Yes, they can be exited.
– Exit terms depend on policy status.

– Minimum holding period usually applies.
– After that, surrender becomes possible.

– You may receive surrender value.
– This value is often lower initially.

» Emotional barrier around surrender
– Many seniors fear losing money.
– This fear delays correct decisions.

– Continuing wrong products increases loss.
– Early correction reduces damage.

» Assessment of continuing versus exiting
– Continuing means more premium burden.
– Returns remain uncertain.

– Liquidity stays restricted.
– Stress continues every year.

– Exiting stops further premium drain.
– Money becomes usable elsewhere.

» Income needs in retirement
– Retirement needs predictable cash flow.
– Expenses do not wait for maturity.

– Medical costs rise unexpectedly.
– Family support needs flexibility.

– Locked products reduce confidence.

» Insurance versus investment separation
– Insurance should protect, not invest.
– Investment should grow or give income.

– Mixing both causes confusion.
– Separation improves clarity.

» What a Certified Financial Planner would assess
– Your regular expenses.
– Your emergency fund adequacy.

– Your health cover sufficiency.
– Your existing liquid assets.

– Your comfort with volatility.

» Action regarding investment-cum-insurance policies
– These policies are not ideal now.
– They strain cash flow.

– They do not give immediate income.
– They reduce flexibility.

– Surrender should be seriously considered.

» How to approach surrender decision calmly
– First, ask for surrender value statement.
– Ask insurer directly, not agents.

– Request written breakup.
– Include all charges.

– Compare future premiums versus surrender value.

» Important surrender-related points
– Surrender value may seem low.
– This is common in early years.

– Focus on future peace, not past loss.
– Stop throwing good money after bad.

» Tax aspect awareness
– Surrender proceeds may have tax impact.
– This depends on policy structure.

– Get clarity before final action.
– Plan withdrawal carefully.

» What to do after surrender
– Do not keep money idle.
– Reinvest based on retirement needs.

– Focus on income generation.
– Focus on capital safety.

» Suitable investment approach after exit
– Use diversified mutual fund solutions.
– Choose conservative to balanced options.

– Prefer actively managed funds.
– They adjust during market changes.

» Why index funds are unsuitable here
– Index funds mirror full market falls.
– No downside protection exists.

– Volatility can disturb sleep.
– Recovery may take time.

– Active funds aim to reduce damage.
– This suits senior investors better.

» Why regular mutual fund route helps
– Guidance is crucial at this age.
– Behaviour control matters.

– Regular reviews prevent mistakes.
– Certified Financial Planner support adds confidence.

– Cost difference is worth guidance.

» Income planning without annuities
– Avoid irreversible income products.
– Keep flexibility alive.

– Use systematic withdrawal approaches.
– Control amount and timing.

» Liquidity planning importance
– Keep enough money accessible.
– Emergencies do not announce arrival.

– Liquidity gives mental comfort.
– Avoid forced asset sales.

» Health expense preparedness
– Health costs rise sharply after sixty.
– Inflation is brutal here.

– Keep separate health contingency fund.
– Do not depend on policy maturity.

» Estate and family clarity
– Ensure nominees are updated.
– Write a clear Will.

– Avoid confusion for family.
– Simplicity matters now.

» Psychological peace as a goal
– Retirement planning is emotional.
– Stress harms health.

– Financial clarity improves wellbeing.
– Confidence comes from control.

» Red flags you should never ignore
– Premium pressure.
– Unclear benefits.

– Long lock-in periods.
– Agent-driven explanations only.

» What you should do immediately
– Ask insurer for surrender details.
– Evaluate calmly with numbers.

– Stop listening only to agents.
– Seek unbiased planning view.

» What not to do
– Do not continue blindly.
– Do not stop premiums without clarity.

– Do not delay decision endlessly.
– Delay increases loss.

» Your age-specific investment mindset
– Growth is secondary now.
– Stability is primary.

– Income visibility is essential.
– Liquidity is non-negotiable.

» Emotional reassurance
– You are not alone.
– Many seniors face similar issues.

– Correcting course is strength.
– It is never too late.

» Final Insights
– These policies are not aligned now.
– Premium stress confirms mismatch.

– Surrender option should be explored seriously.
– Protect peace over promises.

– Shift towards flexible, transparent investments.
– Focus on living benefits and comfort.

– Simplicity will serve you best now.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 19, 2025

Money
Hi Reetika, I am 43 year old. I am currently working in private organization. Having an Investment of 8.0 Lac in NPS, 27 Lac in PF, 4 Lac in PPF and 2.5 Lac in FD. My child is in 11th Science. I have my own house and no any loan. I need to Invest around 80.0 Lac for Child Education, Marriage and Retirement.
Ans: You have taken a sensible start with disciplined savings.
Owning a house without loans is a strong advantage.
Starting early retirement assets shows responsibility.
Your goals are clear and time is still supportive.

» Life stage and responsibility review
– You are 43 years old and employed.
– Your income phase is still growing.
– Your child is in 11th Science.

– Education expenses will start very soon.
– Marriage goals are medium-term.
– Retirement is long-term but critical.

– This stage needs balance, not extremes.
– Growth and safety both are required.

» Current asset structure understanding
– Retirement-linked savings already exist.
– These assets give long-term discipline.

– Provident savings form a stable base.
– Pension-oriented savings add future comfort.

– Public savings give safety and tax efficiency.
– Fixed deposits give short-term liquidity.

– Overall structure is conservative currently.
– Growth assets need gradual strengthening.

» Liquidity and emergency readiness
– Fixed deposits cover immediate needs.
– Emergency risk appears controlled.

– Maintain at least six months expenses.
– This avoids forced investment exits.

– Do not reduce liquidity for long-term goals.

» Education goal time horizon assessment
– Child education starts within few years.
– Expenses will rise sharply during graduation.

– Foreign education may increase cost further.
– This goal needs partial safety focus.

– Avoid market-linked volatility for near-term needs.

» Marriage goal perspective
– Marriage goal is emotional and financial.
– Expenses usually occur after education.

– This allows moderate growth approach.
– Capital protection remains important.

» Retirement goal clarity
– Retirement is still twenty years away.
– Time is your biggest strength.

– Small discipline now creates big comfort later.
– Growth assets must play a key role.

» Gap understanding for Rs. 80 lacs goal
– Your current assets are lower than required.
– This gap is normal at this age.

– Regular investing will bridge the gap.
– Lump sum expectations should be realistic.

– Salary growth will support higher investments later.

» Income utilisation approach
– Salary should fund regular investments.
– Annual increments should raise contributions.

– Bonuses should be goal-based.
– Avoid lifestyle inflation.

» Asset allocation strategy direction
– Future investments must be diversified.
– Do not depend on one asset type.

– Growth-oriented funds suit long-term goals.
– Stable funds suit near-term needs.

– Balance reduces stress during volatility.

» Mutual fund role in your plan
– Mutual funds allow disciplined participation.
– They reduce direct market timing risk.

– Professional management adds value.
– Diversification improves consistency.

– They suit education and retirement goals.

» Why actively managed funds matter
– Markets are volatile and emotional.
– Index funds follow markets blindly.

– Index funds fall fully during downturns.
– There is no downside protection.

– Actively managed funds adjust exposure.
– Fund managers reduce risk during stress.

– They aim to protect capital better.
– This suits family goals.

» Regular investing discipline
– Monthly investing builds habit.
– Market ups and downs get averaged.

– This reduces regret and fear.
– Discipline matters more than timing.

» Direct versus regular fund clarity
– Direct funds need strong self-discipline.
– Monitoring becomes your responsibility.

– Wrong decisions hurt long-term goals.
– Emotional exits are common.

– Regular funds provide guidance.
– Certified Financial Planner support adds value.

– Behaviour control protects returns.

» Tax awareness for mutual funds
– Equity mutual fund long-term gains face tax.
– Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed.

– Tax rate is 12.5 percent.
– Short-term equity gains face 20 percent tax.

– Debt fund gains follow slab rates.

– Tax planning must align with withdrawals.

» Education funding investment approach
– Use stable and balanced funds.
– Avoid aggressive exposure close to need.

– Gradually reduce risk as goal nears.
– Protect capital before usage.

» Marriage funding approach
– Balanced growth approach is suitable.
– Do not chase high returns.

– Ensure funds are available on time.

» Retirement funding approach
– Long-term horizon allows growth focus.
– Equity-oriented funds are essential.

– Volatility is acceptable now.
– Time smoothens risk.

» Review of existing retirement assets
– Provident savings ensure base security.
– Pension savings add longevity support.

– These assets should remain untouched.
– They form your safety net.

» Inflation impact awareness
– Education inflation is very high.
– Medical inflation rises faster.

– Retirement expenses increase steadily.
– Growth assets fight inflation.

» Insurance protection check
– Ensure adequate life cover.
– Family must remain protected.

– Health cover must be sufficient.
– Medical costs can derail plans.

» Estate and nomination hygiene
– Ensure nominations are updated.
– Family clarity avoids future stress.

– Consider writing a Will.
– This ensures smooth asset transfer.

» Behavioural discipline importance
– Market noise creates confusion.
– Stick to your plan.

– Avoid frequent changes.
– Consistency brings results.

» Review and tracking rhythm
– Review investments once a year.
– Avoid daily monitoring.

– Adjust based on life changes.
– Keep goals priority-based.

» Risk capacity versus risk tolerance
– Your risk capacity is moderate.
– Your responsibilities are high.

– Avoid extreme strategies.
– Balance comfort and growth.

» Psychological comfort in planning
– Your base is already strong.
– Time supports your goals.

– Discipline will do the heavy work.
– Panic is your biggest enemy.

» Finally
– Yes, achieving Rs. 80 lacs is possible.
– Time and discipline are in your favour.

– Start structured investing immediately.
– Increase contributions with income growth.

– Keep goals separated mentally.
– Stay invested during volatility.

– Your journey looks stable and hopeful.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10906 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 19, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi , I am 50 years old having wife and 1 kid. I got laid off in March 2025 and currently running my own company since July 2025 where in I had invested Rs. 2.50 lacs. At present I am not taking any money from the company but we are not making any losses either. I am having an Investment of 1) 30 lacs in Saving A/c and FDs. 2) 20 lacs in NSC maturing in year 2030. 3) 9 lacs in Mutual Funds. 4) 45 lacs in Equity which i intend to liquidate and put in Mutual Funds. 5) 75 lacs in PPF, PF & NPS. 6) Wife earning 50 lacs annually. 7) She has 40 lacs in Saving A/c and FDs. 8) 1.20 Cr. in PPF, PF & NPS. 9) We also own 2 properties with current fair market value of Rs. 5 Cr. 10) One property is giving us rent of Rs. 66K per month. 11) Apart from this we are also expecting to get ~ Rs. 2.50 Cr. over next 15 years for the insurance policies getting matured. Expenses & Liabilities: 1) Monthly expenses of Rs. 4.50 lacs which includes Rent, Insurance premium, EMI against Education loan for my kid's, Medical premium, Travel, Grocery and other miscl. expenses. 2) Car loan EMI of 40,000 per month which is included in the Rs. 4.50 lacs monthly expenses. This loan is till March 2027. 3) Education loan of Rs. 1.05 Cr. with current liability of Rs. 80 lacs as we paid Rs. 25 lacs to the Bank as prepayment. We need to spend ~ Rs. 40 lacs more to support for the kid education in USA till year 2027. 4) We intend to pay the entire Education loan by max. 2030. My question is, will this be enough for me and my wife for the retirement as my wife intends to work till 2037 if everything goes fine (when she turns 60) and I will continue running my company looking at taking Rs. 1 lacs per month from it from next FY.
Ans: You have built strong assets with discipline and patience.
Your financial journey shows clarity, courage, and long-term thinking.
Despite job loss, stability is well protected.
Your family position is better than most Indian households.

» Current life stage understanding
– You are 50 years old with working spouse.
– One child pursuing overseas education.
– You are semi-employed through your own business.
– Your wife has strong income visibility.
– This phase needs protection, not aggressive risk.

– Cash flow control matters more than returns now.
– Liquidity planning is extremely important.
– Emotional decisions must be avoided.

» Employment transition and business assessment
– Job loss was sudden but handled calmly.
– Starting your company shows confidence and skill.
– Initial investment of Rs. 2.50 lacs is reasonable.
– Zero loss position is a good sign.

– No salary draw reduces pressure on business.
– Planned Rs. 1 lac monthly draw is sensible.
– This keeps household stability intact.
– Business income should be treated as variable.

– Do not overestimate future business income.
– Use it only as a support pillar.

» Family income stability review
– Wife earning Rs. 50 lacs annually is a major strength.
– Her income anchors your retirement plan.
– Employment till 2037 gives long runway.

– Her savings discipline looks excellent.
– Large retirement corpus already exists.
– This reduces pressure on your assets.

– You should align plans jointly.
– Retirement must be treated as family goal.

» Asset allocation snapshot assessment
– You hold assets across cash, debt, equity, and retirement buckets.
– Diversification already exists.
– That shows mature planning habits.

– Savings and FDs give immediate liquidity.
– NSC gives defined maturity comfort.
– Equity exposure is meaningful.
– Retirement accounts are strong.

– Real estate is end-use, not investment.
– Rental income adds safety.

» Savings accounts and FDs analysis
– Rs. 30 lacs in savings and FDs offer flexibility.
– Wife holding Rs. 40 lacs adds cushion.

– This covers emergencies and education gaps.
– Liquidity is sufficient for next three years.

– Avoid keeping excess idle cash long-term.
– Inflation quietly erodes value.

– Use this bucket for planned withdrawals.

» NSC maturity planning
– Rs. 20 lacs maturing in 2030 is well timed.
– This aligns with education loan closure.

– This can be earmarked for debt repayment.
– Do not link this to retirement spending.

– It gives psychological comfort.

» Mutual fund exposure review
– Existing mutual fund holding is small.
– Rs. 9 lacs needs scaling gradually.

– Your plan to shift equity into funds is wise.
– This improves risk management.

– Mutual funds suit retirement phase better.
– They provide professional management.

– Avoid sudden large transfers.
– Phased movement reduces timing risk.

» Direct equity exposure evaluation
– Rs. 45 lacs in equity needs careful handling.
– Market volatility can hurt emotions.

– Concentration risk exists in direct equity.
– Monitoring requires time and skill.

– Gradual exit is sensible.
– Move funds into diversified mutual funds.

– Avoid panic selling.
– Use market strength periods for exits.

» Retirement accounts strength review
– Combined PF, PPF, and NPS is very strong.
– Your Rs. 75 lacs is meaningful.
– Wife’s Rs. 1.20 Cr is excellent.

– These assets ensure base retirement security.
– They protect longevity risk.

– Do not disturb these accounts prematurely.
– Let compounding continue.

» Real estate role clarity
– Two properties worth Rs. 5 Cr add net worth comfort.
– One property gives Rs. 66k monthly rent.

– Rental income supports expenses partially.
– This reduces portfolio withdrawal stress.

– Do not consider new property investments.
– Focus on financial assets.

» Insurance maturity inflows assessment
– Expected Rs. 2.50 Cr over 15 years is valuable.
– This gives future liquidity.

– These inflows should not be spent casually.
– They must be reinvested wisely.

– Align maturity money with retirement phase.

» Expense structure evaluation
– Monthly expense of Rs. 4.50 lacs is high.
– This includes many essential heads.

– Education, rent, insurance, travel are significant.
– EMI burden is temporary.

– Expenses will reduce after 2027.
– That improves retirement readiness.

» Car loan review
– EMI of Rs. 40,000 till March 2027 is manageable.
– This is already included in expenses.

– No action required here.
– Avoid new vehicle loans.

» Education loan strategy
– Education loan balance of Rs. 80 lacs is large.
– Overseas education requires careful funding.

– Planned additional Rs. 40 lacs till 2027 is realistic.
– Do not compromise retirement assets for education.

– Target full closure by 2030 is practical.
– Use NSC maturity and surplus income.

– Avoid using retirement accounts for repayment.

» Cash flow alignment till 2027
– Wife’s income covers majority expenses.
– Rental income adds support.

– Business draw of Rs. 1 lac helps.
– Savings bridge shortfalls.

– Cash flow mismatch risk is low.

» Retirement readiness assessment
– Combined family net worth is strong.
– Retirement corpus foundation is already built.

– Major expenses peak before 2027.
– After that, burden reduces.

– Wife working till 2037 adds security.
– This delays retirement withdrawals.

» Post-2037 retirement picture
– After wife retires, expenses will drop.
– No education costs.
– No major EMIs.

– Medical costs will rise gradually.
– Planning buffers already exist.

– Rental income continues.

» Mutual fund strategy for future
– Shift equity proceeds into diversified mutual funds.
– Use a mix of growth-oriented and balanced approaches.

– Avoid index-based investing.
– Index funds lack downside protection.

– They move fully with markets.
– No human judgement is applied.

– Actively managed funds adjust allocations.
– They protect better during volatility.

– Skilled managers add value over cycles.

» Direct funds versus regular funds clarity
– Regular funds offer guidance and discipline.
– Ongoing review is critical at this stage.

– Direct funds require self-monitoring.
– Errors can be costly near retirement.

– Behaviour management matters more than cost.
– Professional handholding reduces mistakes.

– Use mutual fund distributors with CFP credentials.

» Tax awareness on mutual funds
– Equity mutual fund LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed.
– Tax rate is 12.5 percent.

– Short-term equity gains face 20 percent tax.
– Debt mutual fund gains follow slab rates.

– Plan withdrawals tax efficiently.
– Do not churn unnecessarily.

» Withdrawal sequencing in retirement
– Start withdrawals from surplus funds first.
– Use rental income for regular expenses.

– Keep retirement accounts untouched initially.
– Delay withdrawals improves longevity.

– Insurance maturity inflows can fund later years.

» Medical and health planning
– Medical inflation is a major risk.
– Ensure adequate health cover.

– Review coverage every three years.
– Build separate medical contingency fund.

– Avoid dipping into equity during emergencies.

» Estate and succession clarity
– Assets are large and diverse.
– Proper nominations are critical.

– Draft a clear Will.
– Review beneficiaries periodically.

– Avoid family disputes later.

» Psychological comfort and risk control
– You are financially strong.
– Avoid fear-driven decisions.

– Avoid chasing returns.
– Stability matters more now.

– Keep plans simple and review yearly.

» Finally
– Yes, your assets are sufficient for retirement.
– Discipline must continue.

– Control expenses during transition years.
– Avoid large lifestyle upgrades.

– Focus on asset allocation, not market timing.
– Your retirement future looks secure.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |6751 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 19, 2025

Career
Sir i have given 12th in 2025 and passed with 69% but not given jee exam in 2025 and not in 2026 also But i want iit anyhow sir is this possible that i give 12th in 2027 and cleared 75 criteria then give jee mains and also i am eligible for jee advanced
Ans: You have already appeared for and passed the Class 12 examination in 2025. As per the eligibility criteria, only two consecutive attempts for JEE (Advanced) are permitted—the first in 2025 and the second in 2026. Therefore, you will not be eligible to appear for JEE (Advanced) in 2027. Reappearing for Class 12 does not reset or extend JEE (Advanced) eligibility.

However, you can still achieve your goal of studying at an IIT through an alternative and well-established pathway. You may take admission to an undergraduate engineering program of your choice, appear for the GATE examination in your final year, and secure a qualifying score to gain admission to a postgraduate program at a top IIT.

This is a strong and viable route to IIT. At this stage, it would be advisable to move forward by enrolling in an engineering program rather than focusing again on Class 12, JEE Main, or JEE Advanced.

Good luck.
Follow me if you receive this reply.
Radheshyam

...Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |432 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 16, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello Reetika Mam, I am 48 year having privet Job. I have started investment from 2017, current value of investment is 82L and having monthly 50K SIP as below. My goal to have 2.5Cr corpus at the age of 58. Please advice... 1. Nippon India small cap -Growth Rs 5,000 2. Sundaram Mid Cap fund Regular plan-Growth Rs 5,000 3. ICICI Prudential Small Cap- Growth Rs 10,000 4. ICICI Prudential Large Cap fund-Growth Rs 5,000 5. ICICI Prudential Balanced Adv. fund-Growth Rs 5,000 6. DSP Small Cap fund Regular Growth Rs 5,000 7. Nippn India Pharma Fund- Growth Rs 5,000 8. SBI focused Fund Regular plan- Growth Rs 5,000 9. SBI Dynamic Asset Allocation Active FoF-Regular-Growth Rs 5,000
Ans: Hi,

You can easily achieve your goal of 2.5 crores after 10 years. Your current investment value of 82 lakhs alone can grow to 2.5 crores assuming CAGR of 12% and monthly 50k SIP will give additional 1.1 crores, making a total corpus of 3.6 crores at 58.

But I see a problem with your current allocation. The fund selection is more aligned towards small caps of different AMCs and very concentrated and overlapped portfolio.
You need to diversify it so as to secure your current investment while getting a decent CAGR of 12% over next 10 years.
Focus on changing your current funds to large caps and BAFs and flexicaps and avoid sectoral funds.

You can also work with an advisor to get detailed analysis of your portfolio.
Hence you should consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile. A CFP periodically reviews your portfolio and suggest any amendments to be made, if required.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

...Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |432 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 18, 2025

Money
Hi, I am 32 years old, married, and have a 4-year-old daughter. My monthly take-home salary is 55,000 rupees, and my wife's salary is 31,000 rupees, making our total income 86,000 rupees. I am currently in a lot of debt. Our total EMIs amount to 99,910 rupees (total loans with an average interest rate of 12.5%), and even with my father covering most of the monthly expenses, I still spend about 10,000 rupees. This leaves me with a shortage of approximately 25,000 rupees (debt) every month. My total debt across various banks is 36,50,000 rupees, and I also have a gold loan of 14 lakhs. I cannot change the EMI or loan tenure for another year. I also have a 2 lakh rupee loan from private lenders at an 18% interest rate. My total debt is over 52 lakhs. Now, with gold and silver prices rising, I'm worried that I won't be able to buy them again. I have an opportunity to get a 2 lakh rupee loan at a 12% interest rate, and I'm thinking of using that money to buy gold and silver and then pledge them at the bank again. Half of my current gold loan is from a similar situation – I took a loan from private lenders, bought gold, and then took a gold loan from the bank to repay the private loan. Given my current situation and my family's circumstances, should I buy more gold or focus on repaying my debts? What should I do? The monthly interest on my loans is approximately 50,000 rupees, meaning 50,000 rupees of my salary goes towards interest every month. What should I do in this situation? I also have an SBI Jan Nivesh SIP of 2000 rupees per month for the last four months. I have no savings left. I am thinking of taking out term insurance and health insurance, but I am hesitating because I don't have the money. I am looking for some suggestions to get out of these debts.
Ans: Hi Surya,

You are in a very complicated situation. This whole debt trapped needs to be worked on very judiciously. Let us go through all the aspects in detail.

1. Your total monthly household salary - 86000; monthly expense - 10000 contribution as of now; monthly EMI - approx. 1 lakhs.
2. Current loans - 36.5 lakhs from various banks at 12.5%; Gold Loan - 14 lakhs; private lenders - 2 lakhs at 18% >> totalling to 52 lakhs.
3. 50k interest per month payable - implies capital payment is very less leading to more problem.

- Keen on buying gold with loan. This is where more problem will began. Avoid buying gold using loan.
- Your focus should be on reducing your debt instead of increasing it.

Strategy to follow:
1. Close the loan with higher interest rate - 2 lakh personal lender. This will reduce your EMI and give you more potential to prepay other loans.
2. Try and take financial help from your family in prepaying small loans from banks. This can reduce your burden.
3. If you have any unused assets, can sell them to pay off your loans.

Points to NOTE:
> Avoid taking any more loans.
> When your EMI burden reduces, do make an emergency fund of 2-3 lakhs for yourself for any uncetain situation.
> Make sure to have a health insurance for yourself and family.
> Can stop your investments for now. They are of no use if your EMIs are more than your income. Can start investing once your EMI's reduce atleast by 20-30% for you.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

...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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