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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Oct 30, 2023Hindi
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Hi sir, Now I am 24 and I need a fix monthly income of 3+ lakhs by the age of 50 yrs. How much did I need to invest on monthly basis?

Ans: Achieving a fixed monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs by the age of 50 is a commendable goal. Given your current age of 24, you have a 26-year investment horizon. This long-term horizon allows for strategic planning and disciplined investing to reach your target.

Understanding Your Financial Goal
To generate a fixed monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs, you need a substantial retirement corpus. The exact amount will depend on the assumed rate of return and inflation. Generally, a well-planned investment strategy can help achieve this target.

Importance of Starting Early
Starting your investments early is beneficial. Compounding plays a crucial role in wealth accumulation. The longer your money is invested, the more it grows, making it easier to achieve your financial goals.

Estimating the Required Corpus
A fixed monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs translates to Rs 36 lakhs annually. Assuming a conservative withdrawal rate of 4%, you would need a retirement corpus of approximately Rs 9 crores. This corpus can sustain withdrawals while preserving capital.

Monthly Investment Requirement
To reach a corpus of Rs 9 crores in 26 years, regular and disciplined investments are essential. Based on historical returns of diversified equity mutual funds, you can estimate the required monthly investment. Assuming an annual return of around 12%, you need to invest a significant amount monthly.

Choosing the Right Investment Avenues
Diversification is key to managing risk and achieving stable returns. Here are some recommended investment options:

Equity Mutual Funds: These funds offer high returns over the long term. Diversify across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds to balance risk and return.

Hybrid Funds: These funds invest in both equity and debt. They provide stability and moderate returns, making them suitable for long-term goals.

Debt Funds: While offering lower returns, debt funds provide stability. They should form a smaller portion of your portfolio to reduce overall risk.

The Benefits of SIPs
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are an effective way to invest regularly. SIPs help in rupee cost averaging and reduce the impact of market volatility. Investing a fixed amount monthly ensures disciplined savings and wealth accumulation.

The Role of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds are preferable over index funds for long-term goals. Fund managers actively select securities to outperform the market. This active management can potentially provide higher returns, aiding in faster accumulation of the required corpus.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds require self-management and in-depth market knowledge. Without professional guidance, it can be challenging to make informed investment decisions. Investing through regular funds with the assistance of a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers professional advice and personalized strategies.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Regularly review your investment portfolio to track performance. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation. This involves shifting investments from overperforming to underperforming assets to stay aligned with your financial goals.

Professional Guidance
Engage with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice. A CFP can help in selecting the right funds, managing risks, and ensuring that your investment strategy aligns with your long-term financial goals.

Inflation and Its Impact
Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. Your investment strategy should aim for returns that outpace inflation. Equity investments generally offer inflation-beating returns, making them essential for long-term wealth creation.

The Importance of Financial Discipline
Consistency is crucial in achieving financial goals. Stay committed to your investment plan, even during market downturns. Financial discipline ensures steady progress towards your target corpus.

Building a Contingency Fund
Maintain a contingency fund to handle unexpected expenses. This ensures that your primary investments remain intact, and you don’t have to liquidate assets prematurely.

Tax Planning
Consider the tax implications of your investments. Opt for tax-efficient investment options to maximize returns. Long-term capital gains from equity funds are tax-advantaged, making them a suitable choice for long-term goals.

Conclusion
Achieving a fixed monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs by the age of 50 is attainable with disciplined investing and strategic planning. Start early, diversify your investments, and seek professional guidance. Regular review and rebalancing of your portfolio will ensure you stay on track and maximize your returns.

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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Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Nov 15, 2023

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Sir I am going to retire in next 3yrs. How much amount I need so that I can get monthly income of Rs70000. And where I should invest those money. Please advice
Ans: To calculate how much money you need to retire with a monthly income of Rs. 70,000, we need to know the following:

Your current age
Your desired retirement age
Your expected rate of return on your investments
Your desired lifestyle in retirement

Assuming that you are currently 51 years old, plan to retire at age 54, have a life expectancy of 20 years after retirement, and expect a 6% rate of return on your investments, you would need to have a retirement corpus of Rs. 75 lacs approx as of now which become approx. 1 Cr. after the 3 years at the time of your retirement to generate a monthly income of Rs. 70,000 for 20 years after retirement upto the age of 74 years.

As for where to invest your money, there are a number of options available, depending on your risk tolerance and investment goals. Some popular options include:

• Senior citizen savings scheme (SCSS): This is a government-sponsored savings scheme that offers a guaranteed interest rate of 8.2% per annum.
• Post office monthly income scheme (POMIS): This is another government-sponsored savings scheme that offers a monthly income to investors. The current interest rate is 7.40% per annum.
•Annuity plans: Annuity plans provide investors with a guaranteed income stream for a set period of time or for life.
• Debt mutual funds: Debt mutual funds invest in a variety of fixed-income securities, such as government bonds and corporate bonds. They offer relatively low risk and stable returns.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 30, 2023Hindi
Money
I need monthly income of 3 lakh post 65 yrs age and I am 50 now with allocation of 25 lakhs in mutual fund. In flexicap smallcap and midcap kindly suggest how much more I need to invest
Ans: Planning for a Monthly Income of Rs 3 Lakh Post-Retirement

Planning for retirement requires careful consideration and strategic financial planning. At 50, you have 15 years until you reach 65. To ensure a monthly income of Rs 3 lakh post-retirement, it's essential to assess your current investments and future needs.

Current Investment Assessment
You currently have Rs 25 lakh allocated in mutual funds, spread across flexicap, smallcap, and midcap funds. These funds have different risk levels and growth potentials. Understanding their roles and expected returns is crucial.

Understanding Flexicap Funds
Flexicap funds invest in companies of all market capitalizations. They offer flexibility to the fund manager to switch between large, mid, and small-cap stocks. This diversification can potentially provide balanced returns with moderate risk. For long-term goals, flexicap funds are beneficial.

Understanding Smallcap Funds
Smallcap funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential. These funds are more volatile but can offer higher returns. Investing in smallcap funds is suitable for aggressive investors who seek significant growth over a long period.

Understanding Midcap Funds
Midcap funds invest in medium-sized companies. These companies have growth potential but are less risky than smallcap companies. Midcap funds provide a balance between risk and return, making them suitable for investors with a moderate risk appetite.

Calculating Future Needs
To achieve a monthly income of Rs 3 lakh post-retirement, we need to consider inflation and the expected rate of return on your investments. Assuming an average annual inflation rate and a conservative rate of return will help in estimating the future corpus required.

Evaluating Current Corpus and Gap
Your current corpus of Rs 25 lakh is a good start. However, we need to assess the gap between this amount and the required corpus. By estimating the future value of your current investments and the additional investments needed, we can determine how much more you need to invest.

Regular Investments and Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
One effective way to build the required corpus is through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, benefiting from rupee cost averaging and compounding. For a 15-year horizon, SIPs in flexicap, smallcap, and midcap funds can help you achieve your retirement goals.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have fund managers making strategic investment decisions. They aim to outperform the market by selecting high-potential stocks. For long-term investors, actively managed funds can provide higher returns compared to passive index funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds passively track a market index and do not aim to outperform it. They lack the strategic decision-making of actively managed funds. For investors looking for higher returns and active management, index funds may not be the best choice.

Benefits of Regular Plans Over Direct Plans
Regular plans offer the guidance of a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). They provide expert advice, continuous support, and portfolio management. Direct plans, while lower in cost, require investors to manage their investments independently, which can be challenging without in-depth knowledge.

Adjusting Your Portfolio
As you approach retirement, adjusting your portfolio to reduce risk is crucial. A Certified Financial Planner can help in rebalancing your portfolio. This ensures that your investments remain aligned with your retirement goals.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification spreads your investment across different asset classes, reducing risk. By investing in a mix of flexicap, smallcap, and midcap funds, you achieve a diversified portfolio. This helps in mitigating the impact of poor performance in any single asset class.

Estimating Additional Investments
To achieve the desired monthly income, we need to calculate the additional investments required. This involves considering the future value of your current investments and the expected returns. A Certified Financial Planner can assist in creating a detailed investment plan.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your investment portfolio is essential. It ensures that your investments stay on track to meet your financial goals. A Certified Financial Planner can help in making necessary adjustments and provide ongoing support.

Conclusion
Achieving a monthly income of Rs 3 lakh post-retirement requires strategic planning and disciplined investing. Your current investment of Rs 25 lakh in flexicap, smallcap, and midcap funds is a good start. However, you will need to invest more to bridge the gap.

Investing through SIPs in actively managed funds, benefiting from professional guidance, and maintaining a diversified portfolio will help you achieve your retirement goals. Regular review and rebalancing of your portfolio are crucial to staying on track.

Planning for retirement is a significant step towards financial security. With the right strategy and professional advice, you can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 03, 2024

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I am 27 years old. I want around 10 lac rupees in 31 years as well as 3 to 4 cr as retirement plan when I will be 50 years.How much should I invest per month? My current income is 70k per month. Expense is 20k. I want to also enjoy my life not want to invest all my money. Can you please suggest
Ans: Great that you're planning for your future at 27! Let's look at your goals.
Your Financial Picture

Age: 27 years
Monthly income: Rs. 70,000
Monthly expenses: Rs. 20,000
Short-term goal: Rs. 10 lakhs in 31 years
Long-term goal: Rs. 3-4 crores by age 50

Appreciating Your Foresight

Planning for retirement at 27 is very smart
You're giving yourself time to grow your money
Balancing saving and enjoying life is important

Investment Strategy for Short-term Goal

Rs. 10 lakhs in 31 years is a modest goal
You can achieve this with small, regular investments
Consider a mix of equity and debt mutual funds

Long-term Retirement Planning

Rs. 3-4 crores by 50 needs more aggressive saving
Start with 20-25% of your income for this goal
Increase this amount as your income grows

Power of Compounding

Starting early gives your money time to grow
Even small amounts can become large over time
Stay invested for the long term

Balanced Approach to Saving

Aim to save about 30-35% of your income initially
This leaves room for current expenses and enjoyment
Adjust this as your income and expenses change

Investment Options

Mutual funds can be good for long-term growth
Choose a mix of equity and debt funds
Review and rebalance your portfolio regularly

Increasing Your Investments

Try to increase your investment amount yearly
Even a small increase can make a big difference
Use salary hikes to boost your investments

Regular Review

Check your progress every 6 months
Adjust your plan if your goals or situation change
Stay committed to your long-term objectives

Enjoying Life While Saving

Set aside some money for fun and travel
This prevents feeling deprived and helps stick to your plan
Balance is key to long-term financial success

Finally
Start with investing about Rs. 20,000-25,000 per month. Increase this as your income grows. Regular review and adjustments will help you reach your goals while enjoying life.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Radheshyam Zanwar  |1056 Answers  |Ask -

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Asked by Anonymous - Nov 22, 2024Hindi
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My son secured CRL below 800 in Jee advance 2024 but did not take admission in IIT rather took admission in a third grade college and currently pursuing Btech CSE. I am worried about his future. Can he get success in future?
Ans: Hello.
You did not mention which IIT college and course your son was getting. You also did not mention which college he has been admitted to. It seems that there is a wide communication gap between you and your son. Surprisingly, a candidate getting admission to IIT rejected it and went to a 3rd-grade college (as per your opinion). You are also not clear about, what was role when your son was denied to take admission to IIT and chose a 3rd-grade engineering college. There are lots of possibilities that your son has been denied IIT college which can't be discussed on this public platform.
It seems that your son is a talented, hard worker which is already reflected in his JEE result, there is no need to worry about his future. These types of candidates are less dependent on the college and faculty. They have their inbuilt capability to learn and excel in the life. There is no need to worry much about the decision taken by your son. Just observe that, whether he is attending college regularly and engaged in extracurricular activities. If he scores well in CSE, a bright future is waiting for him. Remember, a job career is less dependent on the college name! Nowadays, show your extraordinary skills and get the job!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 22, 2024

Money
Sir, I am 55 yrs of age. I want to invest Rs.5000/- pm in Mutual funds for a period of 5 years. Can you suggest me which Mutual funds are best for me to proceed.
Ans: At 55 years, financial planning focuses on achieving a blend of growth, stability, and tax efficiency. A systematic investment of Rs. 5000 per month in mutual funds for five years is a commendable step. This detailed plan outlines an optimal approach tailored to your needs.

Understanding Your Goals
Capital Preservation and Moderate Growth
Your investment horizon of five years suggests a moderate-risk strategy. While growth is important, safeguarding capital is equally critical at this stage in life.

Liquidity and Accessibility
Investments should provide liquidity to meet any unforeseen expenses. Funds with shorter lock-in periods or high liquidity are ideal.

Tax Efficiency
Tax implications can significantly impact net returns. A focus on tax-efficient funds and strategies will maximize your earnings.

Suggested Investment Strategy
A diversified approach ensures a balance between growth and stability. Below is a breakdown of recommended fund types:

1. Actively Managed Equity Funds
These funds can deliver superior returns by leveraging fund managers’ expertise.
They help you capitalize on opportunities that passive index funds miss.
Over five years, these funds can outperform benchmarks significantly.
2. Balanced Advantage Funds
Balanced Advantage Funds manage risk effectively by dynamically adjusting between equity and debt.
They offer stability while ensuring growth through equity exposure.
These are suitable for investors who want moderate risk with decent returns.
3. Debt-Oriented Funds
Debt funds provide stability and are less volatile compared to equity funds.
They ensure a steady income stream with lower risk.
Ideal for a portion of your portfolio to counter equity market fluctuations.
Why Avoid Index Funds?
Index funds track market benchmarks but lack active decision-making.
They do not adapt to changing market dynamics.
Actively managed funds, on the other hand, outperform during volatile periods due to skilled management.
The Pitfalls of Direct Fund Investments
While direct funds seem cost-effective, they require hands-on expertise and time. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers multiple advantages:

Expert Management: A CFP selects funds that align with your financial goals and risk appetite.
Portfolio Monitoring: They ensure your investments remain on track, adjusting for market changes.
Reduced Stress: You avoid the hassle of analyzing market trends and managing investments independently.
Regular plans through a CFP, combined with professional fund distribution, deliver better returns and convenience.

Allocating Your Rs. 5000 Monthly Investment
Equity Funds: Allocate 40-50% of your monthly investment. Equity funds offer growth and higher returns over five years.
Balanced Funds: Allocate 30-40% for stability. These funds balance growth and protection.
Debt Funds: Invest 10-20% to reduce overall portfolio risk. These funds ensure consistent returns.
By diversifying across these fund types, you minimize risks and maximize returns.

Tax Implications of Mutual Fund Investments
1. Taxation on Equity Funds
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.
2. Taxation on Debt Funds
Gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.
Investing for three years or more in debt funds provides indexation benefits.
3. Optimal Tax Strategy
Opt for funds with low turnover to reduce taxable events.
Hold funds for a longer term to benefit from lower tax rates on LTCG.
Key Considerations for Your Investment Journey
Periodic Reviews: Evaluate your portfolio every six months to ensure alignment with your goals.
Avoid Over-Diversification: Limiting your investments to a few funds simplifies tracking and enhances returns.
Reinvestment of Gains: Use returns from mutual funds for reinvestment to maximize compounding benefits.
Benefits of Working with a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner adds immense value to your investment journey. Here's how:

Tailored Investment Plan: They customize fund selection based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Expert Portfolio Management: Regular reviews and adjustments enhance your portfolio performance.
Holistic Financial Planning: A CFP aligns your mutual fund investments with other financial goals, such as retirement or child education.
This approach ensures a seamless investment experience with optimal outcomes.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 5000 monthly in mutual funds over five years can yield significant results with the right approach. By diversifying into equity, balanced, and debt funds, you achieve a balance of growth and stability. Avoid direct and index funds, as they lack the benefits of expert management.

A Certified Financial Planner ensures your investments remain aligned with your goals, maximizing returns while minimizing risks. Regular portfolio reviews and disciplined investing will lead you toward financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7099 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 22, 2024

Money
Sir, I' am 44 Yr. old and doing small savings in LIC and around 6.5 lakhs invested in shares. how can further improve my financial status to grow money.
Ans: Assess Your Current Financial Position
Your dedication to saving and investing shows financial discipline.

LIC savings provide insurance and assured returns but may underperform inflation-adjusted growth.

Rs 6.5 lakhs in shares is a good start for wealth accumulation but is highly dependent on market fluctuations.

You have taken initial steps toward financial independence; now focus on optimising and growing your wealth.

Define and Prioritise Your Financial Goals
Start by clearly defining your short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial goals.

Short-term: Emergency funds, annual vacations, or gadget purchases.

Medium-term: Children’s higher education or down payment for a house.

Long-term: Comfortable retirement, wealth creation, or supporting dependents.

Assign time frames and target amounts to each goal.

Prioritise based on urgency and importance to streamline your investment strategy.

Evaluate and Enhance Insurance Coverage
Life Insurance: Review your current LIC policies. Check if the coverage is adequate to secure your family’s future. A term plan may provide better protection at a lower cost.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive health coverage for the family. Choose a policy with adequate sum assured, including critical illness cover.

Avoid combining investment and insurance. Pure insurance plans like term plans are more cost-effective.

Optimise LIC Policies for Better Returns
LIC policies typically offer low to moderate returns compared to inflation and market-linked options.

Evaluate the surrender value, lock-in period, and maturity benefits of existing LIC policies.

If the returns are unsatisfactory, you may consider surrendering or withdrawing them partially.

Reinvest the proceeds into diversified mutual funds for better long-term growth.

Diversify Your Investment Portfolio
Avoid over-concentration in direct shares, as they are highly volatile and require in-depth research.

Mutual Funds: Include equity mutual funds for professional management, diversification, and inflation-beating returns. Choose funds aligned with your risk appetite and goals.

Debt Funds: Invest in debt mutual funds for stability and steady returns, especially for short-term goals.

Gold: Consider allocating 5-10% of your portfolio to gold or gold funds to hedge against inflation.

Mutual Funds: A Better Investment Option
Actively managed funds provide opportunities for higher returns than passive investments like index funds.

Regular funds offer benefits like professional advice and regular portfolio reviews by Certified Financial Planners.

CFPs ensure your investments are aligned with your long-term financial objectives.

These funds are ideal for investors seeking growth while minimising direct market exposure.

Build an Emergency Fund
Create a liquid emergency fund covering 6-12 months of your household expenses.

Use liquid mutual funds or high-interest savings accounts for this purpose.

This ensures financial stability during unforeseen circumstances like job loss or medical emergencies.

Focus on Retirement Planning
At 44, retirement planning becomes critical to securing your post-retirement lifestyle.

Start by estimating monthly expenses during retirement, considering inflation.

Invest in a balanced mix of equity and debt instruments to build a sustainable retirement corpus.

A systematic investment plan (SIP) in equity funds can help accumulate wealth over time.

Strategic Tax Planning
Review your tax-saving investments under Section 80C to maximise deductions.

ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme) mutual funds offer tax benefits and higher growth potential.

National Pension System (NPS) provides an additional Rs 50,000 tax deduction under Section 80CCD(1B).

Ensure your tax-saving investments align with your financial goals and time horizons.

Monitor and Rebalance Your Investments
Periodically review your investments to assess performance and alignment with goals.

Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired equity-to-debt ratio as market conditions change.

Avoid impulsive decisions during market volatility; focus on the long-term potential of your investments.

Avoid Common Investment Mistakes
Do not mix insurance and investment in one product, as it often leads to suboptimal returns.

Avoid relying solely on direct equity investments unless you have expertise in stock analysis.

Stay patient with equity investments, as they require a long-term horizon of 5-7 years for optimal growth.

Final Insights
Improving your financial status requires a well-thought-out and diversified investment plan.

Reassess your LIC policies and direct equity investments to optimise returns.

Diversify into mutual funds, build an emergency fund, and focus on tax-efficient investments.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner to develop a tailored strategy for your financial goals.

Take consistent and disciplined actions to grow your wealth and secure your financial future.

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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