I am 25 and earning 41k a month. My monthly expenses are 19k and I save around 22k a month. I have started investing in mutual funds and investing 12k/month. My financial goal is to have a corpus of 4-5 Cr at the time of my retirement. Would like to retire at 55. Should I consider investing in NPS? Please advise.

Ans: It's impressive to see your proactive approach to financial planning at such a young age. With a healthy income and diverse investments, you're laying a strong foundation for your future. Your current SIPs reflect a balanced approach, diversifying across various market segments.

Regarding NPS, it's understandable that the lock-in period may not align with your comfort level. While NPS offers tax benefits and retirement planning advantages, it's essential to choose investment avenues that resonate with your financial goals and preferences.

Considering your financial situation and goals, a Certified Financial Planner can help streamline your investments and align them more closely with your aspirations. They can guide you on optimizing your portfolio, considering factors like risk tolerance, time horizon, and liquidity needs.

Remember, financial planning is a dynamic process. As you progress in your career and life, your goals and priorities may evolve. Regular reviews and adjustments to your investment strategy can help you stay on track. Keep up the good work, and best wishes for your financial journey ahead!

Ans: Hello;

6-7 year time horizon for NPS may not be optimal.

Also after 60, you may withdraw maximum of 60% of your investment value while the rest 40% has to compulsorily be utilised to buy an annuity.

Happy Investing;

Ans: Hello;

You may invest in NPS upto the age of 70.

However even auto choice would also only allow 60-50% equity allocation at this age.

If this is okay with then please go ahead.

Else you may also think about investing in ICICI Pru Retirement Fund (G) -Hybrid Aggressive plan which is a type of solution oriented mutual fund for retirement planning.

It comes with a mandatory 5 year lock-in.

Equity allocation maybe between 65-80% and debt allocation maybe 35-20%.

Select whatever suits your risk tolerance.

Happy Investing!!

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

Ans: Your decision to start investing early for retirement is excellent. At 30, you have time to build a strong corpus.

Let’s assess if NPS is a good choice.

Understanding NPS for Retirement
NPS is a government-backed retirement scheme.
It invests in equity, corporate bonds, and government securities.
You can choose an active or auto allocation strategy.
Tier 1 NPS is locked until retirement.
60% of maturity value is tax-free. The rest must be used for an annuity.
Tax Benefits of NPS
Contributions under Section 80CCD(1) are part of Rs. 1.5 lakh limit.
Extra Rs. 50,000 deduction is available under Section 80CCD(1B).
Employer contribution is tax-free under Section 80CCD(2).
Annuity payouts after retirement are taxable.
Limitations of NPS
NPS has restrictions on withdrawals before retirement.
Equity exposure is capped at 75%, reducing long-term growth potential.
Returns depend on market conditions and fund manager performance.
40% mandatory annuity purchase reduces liquidity at retirement.
Alternative Investment Options
Mutual funds offer better flexibility and growth potential.
Actively managed equity funds outperform index-based options.
Midcap and flexi-cap funds provide long-term capital appreciation.
Hybrid funds balance risk and return for stability.
Portfolio Strategy for Retirement
A mix of equity and debt ensures a stable corpus.
Invest through SIPs to reduce market timing risks.
Increase allocation as income grows.
Keep a mix of large, mid, and small-cap funds.
Avoid over-reliance on any single investment product.
Final Insights
NPS is good for disciplined retirement savings.
Tax benefits are attractive, but liquidity is limited.
Mutual funds offer better long-term growth and flexibility.
A combination of both can work well for retirement planning.
Increase investment gradually as salary increases.


Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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