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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Ravi Question by Ravi on Mar 20, 2024Hindi
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I want 1 crore for corpus. I invest monthly SIP 30000/- . Pls suggest best fund.

Ans: the best fund for you depends on several factors, including:

Investment Horizon: How long do you plan to invest until you need the Rs. 1 crore? A longer timeframe allows for more aggressive investments with higher growth potential but also higher risk.
Risk Tolerance: How comfortable are you with potential losses? Lower risk tolerance suggests a more conservative portfolio with a larger debt allocation.
Financial Goals: Is this Rs. 1 crore for retirement, a child's education, or another goal? Your goals will influence your investment strategy.
Here's what I can recommend:

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP): A CFP can consider your unique circumstances and create a personalized investment plan to achieve your Rs. 1 crore goal.

Consider a Diversified Portfolio: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. A diversified portfolio with a mix of asset classes (equity, debt, etc.) can help manage risk. Actively managed funds involve experienced fund managers who try to pick stocks to outperform the market. Actively managed funds come with higher fees compared to passively managed funds.

Start an SIP in Equity Funds: If you have a long investment horizon and a moderate risk tolerance, consider a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in diversified equity mutual funds. SIPs help you invest regularly and benefit from rupee-cost averaging.

Here's an example (not a recommendation):

Invest in a Multi-Cap Fund (SIP): A Multi-Cap Fund invests across market capitalizations (large, mid, small).

Invest in a Flexi-Cap Fund (SIP): A Flexi-Cap Fund allows the fund manager more flexibility in choosing companies across market capitalizations.

Invest in a Debt Fund (SIP): A Debt Fund provides stability and regular income.

Remember:

There's no guaranteed path to Rs. 1 crore. Investment markets are volatile, and returns cannot be guaranteed.

Review Regularly: Review your portfolio (at least annually) with your CFP to ensure it remains on track.

By consulting a CFP and building a diversified portfolio, you can increase your chances of achieving your Rs. 1 crore goal!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 11, 2024

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Sir I am 44 years old and I am in Government Service, I want to make some corpus fund for my family. Kindly please suggest me best mutual funds or something else for SIP.
Ans: It's commendable that you're thinking ahead to secure your family's financial future. Let's explore some suitable options for building a corpus through SIPs.

Considering your age and stable income from government service, investing in mutual funds through SIPs can be an excellent choice for wealth accumulation. Here are a few considerations:

Diversification: Opt for a diversified portfolio of mutual funds across different asset classes like large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds. This diversification helps spread risk and maximize returns over the long term.

Risk Profile: Assess your risk tolerance and investment horizon before selecting mutual funds. Since you're looking to build a corpus for your family, you may consider a balanced approach with a mix of equity and debt funds to manage risk effectively.

Fund Selection: Choose mutual funds with a consistent track record of performance and managed by experienced fund managers. Look for funds with low expense ratios and a focus on long-term wealth creation.

Financial Goals: Define your financial goals clearly, whether it's education expenses for your children, retirement planning, or creating an emergency fund. Tailor your SIP investments to align with these objectives.

Regular Review: Periodically review your mutual fund portfolio and make adjustments as needed based on changes in your financial situation or market conditions. Stay informed about market trends and economic developments to make informed investment decisions.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend consulting with a CFP to assess your financial situation comprehensively and develop a personalized investment plan tailored to your needs and goals. A CFP can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the complexities of investment planning.

In conclusion, by investing systematically through SIPs in well-diversified mutual funds and seeking professional advice, you can work towards building a corpus to secure your family's financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 02, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 31, 2024Hindi
Money
I want a corpus of 2 crore in next 10 years. How much will be the monthly SIP and pls advise some funds
Ans: You’ve set a goal to accumulate Rs. 2 crore in 10 years. This is ambitious and achievable with disciplined investing. Let's explore how to achieve this.

Estimating the Required Monthly SIP
Target Corpus:
To reach Rs. 2 crore, you need to invest consistently. The amount of monthly SIP depends on expected returns.

Expected Returns:
Assuming a moderate return rate from mutual funds (around 12% per annum), you would need to invest a significant amount every month.

Monthly SIP Calculation:
A Certified Financial Planner would suggest that to achieve Rs. 2 crore, you should consider a monthly SIP of around Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, depending on the exact returns. This might seem high, but it's aligned with your goal.

Importance of Actively Managed Funds
Avoiding Index Funds:
Index funds may not give you the required returns. They follow the market and lack the potential for higher gains. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, are handled by professional fund managers. These managers aim to outperform the market, which could help in reaching your goal faster.

Regular Funds via MFD:
Direct funds might seem cost-effective, but regular funds through a trusted MFD with CFP credentials can provide better long-term results. MFDs offer professional advice, regular reviews, and adjustments to your portfolio. They ensure that your investments stay on track.

Suggested Fund Categories
Large-Cap Funds:
These funds invest in well-established companies. They are stable and offer consistent returns. Allocating a portion to large-cap funds reduces risk while ensuring steady growth.

Mid-Cap Funds:
Mid-cap funds have the potential for higher returns compared to large-cap funds. They invest in companies that are in the growth phase. Including mid-cap funds in your portfolio can enhance your overall returns.

Small-Cap Funds:
Small-cap funds are riskier but offer the possibility of higher returns. These funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential. A small allocation here can boost your corpus if the companies perform well.

Flexi-Cap Funds:
Flexi-cap funds offer flexibility in investment. They can invest across different market capitalizations based on market conditions. These funds adapt to market changes, which can be beneficial in a volatile market.

Balancing Your Portfolio
Diversification is Key:
Don’t put all your money in one type of fund. A well-diversified portfolio across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and flexi-cap funds will spread risk and optimize returns.

Review Regularly:
Regularly review your portfolio with the help of a Certified Financial Planner. Adjustments might be needed based on market conditions and your financial situation.

Risk Assessment and Management
Understand Your Risk Appetite:
Investing in mutual funds involves risk. It's crucial to understand your risk tolerance. If you're not comfortable with high risk, allocate more towards large-cap and flexi-cap funds.

Stay Invested:
Market fluctuations are normal. Don't panic during market corrections. Staying invested for the long term is key to achieving your financial goals.

Emergency Fund:
Before committing to high SIPs, ensure you have an emergency fund. This fund will cover unexpected expenses and prevent you from dipping into your investments.

Tax Considerations
Tax Efficiency:
Equity mutual funds are tax-efficient. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) up to Rs. 1 lakh per annum are tax-free. Gains above this threshold are taxed at 10%. Plan your investments to maximize tax efficiency.

Section 80C Benefits:
You can also consider tax-saving mutual funds under Section 80C. These funds have a lock-in period of three years but offer tax benefits along with potential returns.

Additional Financial Goals
Retirement Planning:
While working towards your Rs. 2 crore goal, don’t neglect retirement planning. Ensure that you are also contributing towards a retirement corpus. Consider options like PPF, NPS, or dedicated retirement funds.

Insurance Needs:
Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance. These are crucial for financial security. If you hold LIC, ULIP, or other investment cum insurance policies, it might be wise to review them. Surrendering these policies and reinvesting in mutual funds could yield better returns.

Steps to Start Your SIP
Choose a Reputable AMC:
Select a reputed Asset Management Company (AMC) with a good track record.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner:
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner to select the best funds suited to your risk profile and financial goals.

Automate Your SIPs:
Set up automatic SIPs to ensure disciplined investing. This reduces the temptation to skip payments and keeps you on track.

Finally
Achieving a Rs. 2 crore corpus in 10 years requires a disciplined approach. With the right selection of actively managed funds and regular monitoring, you can reach your goal. Diversify your investments, stay invested, and consult a Certified Financial Planner to stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 08, 2025Hindi
Money
Need a corpus of 1 crore in 9 years. How much in SIP should I invest and which are the mutual funds?
Ans: You are aiming for a solid financial goal.
Rs. 1 crore in 9 years is a focused and achievable target.
Starting now with a disciplined SIP plan is the right step forward.

You deserve appreciation for planning early.
Now, let’s understand how to reach this corpus comfortably.

» Goal Understanding – Rs. 1 Crore in 9 Years

– This is a long-term goal.
– It gives your investments time to grow.
– Equity mutual funds suit this timeframe well.
– You need growth with risk-managed allocation.
– Don’t consider bank deposits or insurance plans.
– Those will not beat inflation.

Let equity mutual funds drive this goal smartly.

» Monthly SIP Estimate for Rs. 1 Crore in 9 Years

– You will need to invest around Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 60,000 per month.
– This is based on 11% to 12% annualised returns.
– If returns are lower, increase SIP by 5% yearly.
– Start with what is affordable now.
– Gradually step up SIP amount each year.

SIP plus time is a powerful wealth-building combination.

» Ideal Asset Allocation Strategy for This Goal

– Use a blend of equity categories.
– 50% in flexi-cap and large & mid-cap funds.
– 25% in mid-cap funds.
– 15% in small-cap funds.
– 10% in balanced advantage funds.

Diversification helps in cushioning volatility and capturing upside.

Do not keep 100% in one fund category.

» Important Notes on Mutual Fund Types

Flexi-cap funds give you wide market coverage.

Large & mid-cap funds add stability with good growth.

Mid and small-cap funds offer higher return potential.

Balanced advantage funds manage risk in uncertain times.

This diversified mix can target your Rs. 1 crore goal better.

» Avoid Index Funds – Not Suitable for This Goal

– Index funds follow fixed stocks list.
– They don’t adapt to market changes.
– In falling markets, they give full downside.
– No fund manager to manage risk.
– Also no strategy to rotate sectors or themes.
– Index funds underperform actively managed funds in sideways markets.
– You need active strategy for 9-year horizon.

Choose actively managed funds for better risk-adjusted returns.

» Avoid Direct Funds – Prefer Regular Plans with MFD + CFP

– Direct plans may look cheaper on paper.
– But they lack professional advice and review.
– Wrong fund or poor timing will erode returns.
– Regular plan through MFD with CFP helps in:

Proper fund selection

Regular goal monitoring

Rebalancing during market cycles

Managing taxation and withdrawals

In long term, guidance is more valuable than saving 1% in expense.

» Role of SIP Top-Up in Reaching Faster

– Use annual top-up of 5% to 10%.
– It reduces pressure on current savings.
– Helps you adjust SIP with income growth.
– Achieves target even if markets fluctuate.

This is one of the most under-used wealth builders.

Use it effectively to stay ahead of target.

» Taxation Rules for Mutual Fund Withdrawals

– Equity mutual funds:

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%

STCG taxed at 20%

– Balanced advantage and flexi-cap funds also follow same rules.
– Mid and small-cap funds can have higher gains, but taxable similarly.
– Redeem smartly using SWP in future to reduce tax impact.
– Your Certified Financial Planner will help in this.

Do not ignore taxation when nearing your goal.

» Start SIP in These Fund Categories

– Choose 4 to 5 mutual funds across categories.
– Do not overload with 10+ funds.
– Avoid NFOs and new schemes.
– Choose only from top-performing funds with consistent history.
– Avoid thematic and sector funds.

Stick with diversified equity mutual funds. Simpler is better.

» Other Tips to Strengthen Your Plan

– Review performance every 12 months.
– Don’t stop SIP in market falls.
– Don’t change funds too often.
– Rebalance every 2 years based on performance.
– Use STP or SWP when near goal.
– Keep last 1.5 years’ corpus in low-duration funds.
– Avoid ULIPs or insurance-based investments.

A stable portfolio wins over a flashy one.

» Avoid These Mistakes

– Do not pause SIPs without valid reason.
– Don’t expect fixed return from equity.
– Avoid listening to social media fund advice.
– Don’t pick funds based on past 1-year return only.
– Avoid fund overlap with same strategy or stocks.

Stay focused on your goal, not market news.

» Don’t Use Annuities for Any Long-Term Goal

– Annuities give fixed returns.
– No capital appreciation.
– Income is taxable.
– Capital gets locked.
– Not suitable for wealth creation.

Avoid annuities at all stages of your investment life.

» When to Reduce Equity Exposure Near Goal

– In the last 18 months, start shifting to debt funds.
– Use systematic transfer plan (STP).
– Move from equity to short-duration funds gradually.
– Protect your gains from market swings.
– Use liquid funds for the final year.

This ensures your Rs. 1 crore is safe for use.

» Keep Emergency Fund Separate

– Keep at least 6–9 months of expenses in liquid funds.
– Don’t touch your SIP portfolio for emergencies.
– Use short-term debt or liquid funds.
– Keep this fully outside your goal portfolio.

Emergency fund gives peace and portfolio stability.

» Your SIP Action Plan in Summary

– Goal: Rs. 1 crore in 9 years
– Start SIP: Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 60,000/month
– Fund mix: Flexi-cap, large & mid-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, balanced advantage
– Use regular funds through MFD with CFP
– Avoid direct plans and index funds
– Step-up SIP every year by 5% to 10%
– Review annually and rebalance every 2 years
– Move to debt 1.5 years before goal

Stay disciplined. Wealth will follow.

» Finally

You are planning wisely.
Your target is realistic and time is on your side.
With proper SIP strategy and fund mix, you can achieve Rs. 1 crore with ease.
Avoid direct and index routes.
Stick with active, guided mutual fund investing.
Review and rebalance regularly.

Your goal is achievable with clarity and consistency.

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

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 08, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi i am 40M. would request your help to understand what should be the corpus required for retirement as i want to get retired in next 3-5yrs. currently my take home is 2.3L monthly & my wife also works but leaving the job in next 2-3 months. we have a daughter 10yrs, currently i stay on rent and total monthly expense is 1.1L month. once i will retire we will shift in our own parental flat, where hopefully there will be no rent. current Investments 1. 50L in REC bonds getting matured in 2029 2. 42L in stocks 3. 17L in MF 4. 16L FD 5. 15L in PPF 6. 1.3L SIP monthly i do My Wife Investments 1. 30L corpus 2. flat with current value 40L and we get rental of 10K monthly. Please guide what should be the retirement corpus required combined to retire, assuming i need 75L for my daughter post grad and marriage and we would be requiring 75K monthly for our expenses after retiring
Ans: You have explained your income, goals, current assets, and future plans with great clarity. Your early planning spirit is strong. This gives a very good base. You can reach a peaceful retirement with smart steps in the next few years.

» Your Current Position

You are 40 years old. You plan to retire in 3 to 5 years. You earn Rs 2.3 lakh per month. Your wife also works but will stop working soon. You have one daughter aged 10. Your current monthly cost is around Rs 1.1 lakh. This cost will reduce after retirement because you will shift to your parental flat.

Your investment base is already good. You have saved in bonds, stocks, mutual funds, PPF, FD, and SIP. Your wife also has her own savings and rental income from a flat. All these create a good starting point.

This early base helps you plan stronger. It also gives room for more shaping. You are on the right road.

» Your Family Goals

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s higher education and marriage.

You want Rs 75,000 per month for family living after retirement.

You want to retire in 3 to 5 years.

You will shift to your parental flat after retirement.

You will have rental income of Rs 10,000 from your wife’s flat.

These goals are clear. They give direction. They allow a strong plan.

» Your Present Investments

Your investments include:

Rs 50 lakh in REC bonds maturing in 2029.

Rs 42 lakh in stocks.

Rs 17 lakh in mutual funds.

Rs 16 lakh in fixed deposits.

Rs 15 lakh in PPF.

Rs 1.3 lakh as monthly SIP.

Your wife holds:

Rs 30 lakh corpus.

A flat worth Rs 40 lakh with rent of Rs 10,000 each month.

Your combined net worth is healthy. This gives good power to build your retirement fund in the coming years.

» Understanding Your Expense Need After Retirement

You expect Rs 75,000 per month after retirement. This includes all basic needs. You will not have rent. That reduces cost. This assumption looks fair today.

Your cost will rise with inflation. So you must plan for rising needs. A strong retirement corpus must support rising cost for 40 to 45 years because you are retiring early.

An early retirement needs a large buffer. So you need safety along with growth. Your plan must include growth assets and safety assets.

» How Much Monthly Income You Will Need Later

Rs 75,000 per month is Rs 9 lakh per year. In future years, this cost can rise. If we assume steady rise, your future cost will be much higher.

So the retirement corpus must be designed to:

Give monthly income.

Beat inflation.

Support you for 40 to 45 years.

Protect your family even in market down cycles.

Allow flexibility if your needs change.

A strong retirement fund must support both safety and long-term growth.

» How Much Corpus You Should Target

A safe target is a large and flexible corpus that can support long years without running out of money. For early retirement, the usual thumb rule suggests a very high number. This is because you need income for many decades.

You need a corpus big enough to produce rising income. You also need a cushion for unexpected health costs, lifestyle shocks, and inflation changes.

Your target retirement corpus should be in a strong range. For your needs of Rs 75,000 per month and for goals like daughter’s education and marriage, you should aim for a combined retirement readiness corpus in the higher bracket.

A safe range for your family would be a very large number crossing multiple crores. This large range gives you:

Income safety.

Inflation protection.

Peace during market cycles.

Comfort in long life.

Room for daughter’s future.

Strong backup for health.

You are already on the way due to your existing assets. You will reach close to this range with systematic building over the next 3 to 5 years.

» Why You Need This Larger Corpus

You will retire early. That means more years of living from your corpus. Your corpus must not fall early. It must grow even after retirement. It must give monthly income and long-term family protection.

This is only possible when the corpus is strong and well-structured. A weak corpus creates stress. A strong corpus creates freedom.

Also, your daughter’s future cost must be kept aside. This must be parked in a separate fund. This must not touch your retirement money.

A strong corpus makes these two worlds separate and safe.

» Your Existing Assets and Their Strength

You already have good diversification:

Bonds give safety.

Stocks give growth.

Mutual funds give managed growth.

FD gives stability.

PPF gives tax-free long-term savings.

This blend is already a good start. But you need to make the blend more structured for early retirement.

Your Rs 1.3 lakh monthly SIP is also strong. It builds your future fast. You should continue.

Your wife’s rental income is small but steady. This adds strength.

Your combined financial base can reach your retirement target if you refine your allocation now.

» Your Daughter’s Future Fund Need

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s education and marriage. You should keep this goal separate from your retirement goal.

Your current SIP and future allocations should create a dedicated fund for this goal. A long-term fund can grow well when managed actively.

Do not mix this fund with your retirement needs. Mixing leads to shortage in old age. Always keep this corpus ring-fenced.

» A Strong Asset Mix For Your Retirement Path

A balanced mix is needed. You need growth assets to beat inflation. You also need stable assets for income.

You must avoid index funds because they do not give flexibility. Index funds follow a fixed index. They cannot make active changes in different markets. They cannot move to better stocks when markets change. They force you to stay in weak sectors for long. They also do not help you in down cycles because they cannot protect you by shifting to safer options. This can hurt retirement planning.

Actively managed funds are better because:

They give active asset selection.

They give scope for better returns.

They give flexibility to change sectors.

They give downside management.

They give access to a skilled fund manager.

They support long-term planning more safely.

Direct plans also carry risk. Direct plans do not give guidance. They do not give behavioural support. They do not give market timing help. They do not give portfolio shaping. They leave all the judgement to you. One mistake can cost years of wealth.

Regular plans with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner help you shape decisions. They help you remain disciplined. They help you avoid panic. They help you decide allocation changes at the right time. This saves wealth in long-term.

» How Your Investment Journey Should Grow in the Next 3–5 Years

Continue your SIP.

Increase SIP when your income rises.

Shift part of your stock holding into planned long-term mutual funds to reduce concentration risk.

Build a defined daughter’s education fund.

Keep a part of your REC bond maturity amount for long-term.

Avoid locking too much into fixed deposits for long periods.

Build a safety fund for one year of expenses.

This will create a full structure.

» Your Rental Income Role

Your rental income of Rs 10,000 per month is small but steady. Over time it will rise. This income will support your monthly cash flow after retirement.

You can use this for utilities or health insurance premiums. This gives a cushion.

» Your Emergency Buffer

You should keep at least one year of essential cost in a safe place. This can be in a liquid account or short-term fund. This protects you in shocks.

Since you plan early retirement, a strong buffer is important. It gives peace even in low months.

» A Structured Retirement Approach

A complete retirement plan for you should include:

A clear monthly income plan after retirement.

A corpus that can grow and protect.

A rising income system that matches inflation.

A separate daughter’s future fund.

A health cover plan for your family.

A tax-efficient withdrawal plan.

A market cycle plan to protect you in tough times.

This holistic approach keeps your family strong for decades.

» What You Should Build by Retirement Year

Your aim should be to reach a strong multi-crore range in investments before retirement. You already hold a large amount. You will add more in the next 3 to 5 years through SIP, stock growth, bond maturity, and disciplined saving.

Once you reach your target range, you can start the shifting process:

Move a part to stable assets.

Keep a part in long-term growth assets.

Create a monthly income strategy.

Keep a reserve bucket.

Keep a child future bucket.

Keep a long-term growth bucket.

This structure protects you in all market conditions.

» Final Insights

Your financial journey is already strong. You have a good income. You have saved well. You have multiple asset types. You have a clear timeline. And you have clear goals. This foundation is solid.

In the next 3 to 5 years, your focus should be on growing your combined corpus to a strong multi-crore range, keeping a separate fund for your daughter, reducing risk in unplanned assets, and building a stable long-term structure.

With the present path and a disciplined structure, you can retire peacefully and support your family with confidence for many decades.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2499 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hello my name is saket, I monthly salary is 43k and my saving is zero. My Rent is 15 k and 10 k i send to my parents. How can i save money and investments.
Ans: 1. Your Current Monthly Numbers

Salary: Rs 43,000

Rent: Rs 15,000

Support to parents: Rs 10,000

Left with: Rs 18,000 for food, travel, bills, and savings

You have very little room, but saving is still possible if done smartly.

2. First Step: Build a Small Emergency Buffer

You must build Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 emergency money.
This protects you from taking loans for small issues.

How to build it:

Save Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 every month in a simple bank savings account

Do this for the next few months

Don’t touch it unless truly needed

3. Create a Mini Budget (Very Simple One)

Try this split from the remaining Rs 18,000:

Daily living (food + transport): Rs 10,000 – 11,000

Personal expenses (phone, internet, basics): Rs 3,000 – 4,000

Savings + investments: Rs 3,000 – 5,000

If this feels difficult, reduce food/transport costs by small adjustments.

4. Where to Invest Once You Have Emergency Money

(For minors: This is general education. For actual investing, get guidance from a trusted adult or family member.)

After you build emergency money, start small monthly investing.

You can begin with:

Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 SIP in a simple, diversified equity fund

Increase the SIP whenever salary increases or expenses reduce

Avoid complicated products.
Keep it simple.
Focus on consistency.

5. Easy Practical Ways to Increase Saving

These small moves help a lot:

Avoid food delivery

Use public transport as much as possible

Reduce subscriptions you don’t use

Fix a daily expense limit

Keep a separate bank account only for savings

Even Rs 200 saved daily = Rs 6,000 monthly.

6. Increase Income Slowly

Try small income boosters:

Weekend tutoring

Freelancing

Part-time projects

Selling old gadgets

Learning new skills for future salary growth

Even Rs 3,000 extra income changes your savings life.

7. Build the Habit First

The amount doesn’t matter in the beginning.
The habit matters more.

Even saving Rs 500 every month is better than zero.
Once salary grows, you will already know how to save.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...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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