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Should I Change My 50K Portfolio at 25? Advice for 25 Year Old Investor

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 27, 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
Roshan Question by Roshan on Jul 17, 2024Hindi
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I am 25. I am investing 12.5k in HDFC Nifty 50 index fund, 10k in Parag Parikh Flexi cap, 10k in Quant Small Cap, 12.5k in ICICI nasdaq 100 index fund. Will this be good for a long term investment? What should I change in my portfolio? By what % should I increase my investment?

Ans: Your investment journey at 25 is commendable. Let's evaluate your portfolio and suggest improvements.

Current Portfolio Assessment
Investments:

Rs 12.5k in HDFC Nifty 50 Index Fund
Rs 10k in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap
Rs 10k in Quant Small Cap
Rs 12.5k in ICICI Nasdaq 100 Index Fund
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Limited Returns in Index Funds:

Index funds track the market. They offer average returns.
They lack flexibility. They can’t outperform the market.
Advantages of Actively Managed Funds:

Active funds offer better returns. Fund managers make strategic decisions.
They adapt to market changes. This improves potential gains.
Recommendations for Portfolio Adjustment
Reduce Index Fund Allocation:

Decrease investment in index funds. Focus more on actively managed funds.
Diversify Portfolio:

Add more diversified and balanced funds. This reduces risk and improves stability.
Focus on Long-Term Growth:

Invest in funds with a strong track record. This ensures consistent growth.
Suggested Portfolio Allocation
Equity Funds:

Increase investment in equity funds. This enhances growth potential.
Balanced Funds:

Allocate a portion to balanced funds. They offer a mix of equity and debt.
Diversified Funds:

Add diversified funds. They spread risk across sectors.
Increasing Investment Percentage
Annual Increment:

Increase investment by 10% annually. This helps keep pace with inflation and growth.
Monthly Contributions:

Review your financial status regularly. Increase contributions as your income grows.
Detailed Financial Plan
Investment Review:

Monitor your investments quarterly. Adjust based on performance and goals.
Professional Guidance:

Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner. This ensures optimal investment strategies.
Long-Term Perspective:

Stay focused on long-term goals. Avoid frequent changes based on market fluctuations.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Complex Management:

Direct funds require constant monitoring. This can be time-consuming.
Professional Assistance:

Regular funds offer expert management. This reduces the burden on investors.
Convenience and Expertise:

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures professional oversight. This improves returns and reduces risks.
Final Insights
Disciplined Investing: Consistent and strategic investments are key.
Professional Advice: Certified Financial Planners offer valuable guidance.
Future Planning: Always plan for future needs and adjust your investments accordingly.
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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Vivek

Vivek Shah  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Apr 19, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 18, 2024Hindi
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I am 25 years old and investing 2k in quant small cap, 2k in Nippon small cap, 1k in parag Parikh flexi, 1k in Motilal Oswal midcap, 1k in HDFC mid cap. Is it good for long term like 30 years. Plz advice me
Ans: Hello,

Your portfolio seems to be well-diversified across different sectors and market caps, which is generally a good approach for long-term investing. Here are a few things to consider:

Performance History: Look at the historical performance of each mutual fund scheme over various time frames (1 year, 3 years, 5 years, and since inception). Compare it with relevant benchmarks and peer group averages to assess how well the fund has performed.

Fund Manager Experience: Evaluate the experience and track record of the fund manager. A skilled and experienced fund manager can significantly impact the performance of the fund.

Expense Ratio: Consider the expense ratio of each mutual fund scheme. Lower expense ratios mean more of your investment returns stay with you rather than being eaten up by fees.

Investment Strategy: Understand the investment strategy of each mutual fund scheme. Make sure it aligns with your risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon. For example, small-cap funds tend to be riskier but offer higher growth potential, while flexi-cap funds offer more flexibility in asset allocation.

Asset Allocation: Ensure that your overall portfolio is well-diversified across different asset classes, sectors, and market caps. Avoid overconcentration in any single fund or sector.

Risk Management: Assess the risk management practices of each mutual fund scheme. Look for funds with a disciplined approach to risk management and a focus on preserving capital during market downturns.
Fund House Reputation: Consider the reputation and credibility of the mutual fund house managing the scheme. A well-established and reputable fund house is more likely to have robust investment processes and governance standards.

Regular Review: Regularly review the performance and portfolio composition of each mutual fund scheme. Make adjustments to your portfolio as needed based on changes in your investment objectives, market conditions, and fund performance.
It's also a good idea to consult with a SEBI registered investment advisor who can provide personalized advice based on your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance. They can help you build a well-structured investment portfolio tailored to your needs.

It's also a good idea to consult with a SEBI registeredinvestment advisor who can provide personalized advice based on your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance. They can help you build a well-structured investment portfolio tailored to your needs.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 09, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 29. I am investing 10k in ICICI pru Flexi cap, 5k in Parag Parikh Flexi cap, 5k in Nippon India Small Cap, 5k in SBI Nifty Midcap 150 Index fund, 2.5k in Quant Midcap, 2.5k in Nippon Multi cap. Will this be good for a long term investment? Say around 20 years.
Ans: Firstly, let me appreciate your initiative and discipline in investing. At 29, you are already taking significant steps towards securing your financial future. Your current SIPs total Rs. 30,000 per month across various funds, and you’re wisely looking at a long-term horizon of 20 years. Let’s dive into your investment strategy and evaluate how to optimize it for achieving your goals.

Review of Current Investments
Your portfolio is diversified across flexi-cap, small-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds, including an index fund. This mix is good for spreading risk and capitalizing on growth opportunities in different market segments. Each type of fund has its characteristics, benefits, and risks.

Assessing the Current Portfolio
1. Portfolio Diversification:

Your portfolio's diversification is commendable. You have invested in various fund categories, which is crucial for risk management.

2. Allocation Breakdown:

Flexi-cap Funds: 50% allocation.
Small-cap Funds: 17% allocation.
Mid-cap Funds: 20% allocation.
Multi-cap Funds: 13% allocation.
3. Risk and Return Balance:

This allocation provides a balance between high growth potential (small and mid-cap funds) and stability (flexi-cap and multi-cap funds).

Enhancing Your Investment Strategy
1. Increase SIP Amount Periodically:

Consider increasing your SIP amount by 10% annually. This will significantly enhance your corpus over the long term. For example, increasing your SIPs yearly can amplify your investment growth, thanks to the power of compounding.

2. Regular Portfolio Review:

Review your portfolio's performance at least once a year. This ensures you stay aligned with your financial goals and make necessary adjustments.

3. Rebalancing:

Rebalancing helps maintain your desired asset allocation. It involves selling some investments that have performed well and buying more of those that haven’t, to maintain a target allocation.

Power of Compounding
Compounding is your best friend in long-term investing. The longer you stay invested, the more your money works for you. Reinvesting your returns leads to exponential growth.

1. Long-Term Growth:

Compounding allows your investments to grow faster as you earn returns on both your initial investment and the accumulated returns over time.

2. Patience Pays:

The key to benefiting from compounding is patience. Stay invested for the long haul and avoid the temptation to withdraw funds prematurely.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
1. Professional Management:

Mutual funds are managed by experienced fund managers who make informed investment decisions on your behalf.

2. Diversification:

They offer diversification across various sectors and asset classes, reducing the risk of significant losses.

3. Liquidity:

Mutual funds are highly liquid, meaning you can redeem your investments relatively easily when needed.

4. Flexibility:

There are various types of mutual funds to suit different risk appetites and investment goals.

Evaluating Fund Categories
1. Flexi-Cap Funds:

These funds invest in companies of all sizes and offer flexibility and diversification. They adjust their portfolio mix based on market conditions, aiming for optimal returns.

2. Small-Cap Funds:

Small-cap funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential but come with higher volatility. They can offer substantial returns over the long term if you can withstand short-term market fluctuations.

3. Mid-Cap Funds:

Mid-cap funds invest in medium-sized companies with strong growth prospects. They strike a balance between the stability of large-caps and the high growth potential of small-caps.

4. Multi-Cap Funds:

Multi-cap funds invest across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. They provide a balanced approach, reducing risk while aiming for growth.

5. Index Funds:

Index funds aim to replicate the performance of a specific market index. They offer lower expense ratios but might not outperform the market. Actively managed funds, like those you have, seek to outperform market indices through active stock selection.

Risks and Mitigation
Investing in mutual funds involves certain risks, but these can be managed:

1. Market Risk:

Diversify across various asset classes and sectors to spread risk.

2. Interest Rate Risk:

Maintain a mix of equity and debt funds to mitigate the impact of interest rate fluctuations.

3. Credit Risk:

Invest in funds with high credit ratings to minimize default risk.

4. Inflation Risk:

Equity funds can potentially outpace inflation, preserving the purchasing power of your investments.

Tax Implications
1. Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG):

Gains from equity funds held for more than one year are taxed at 10% for amounts exceeding Rs. 1 lakh annually.

2. Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG):

Gains from equity funds held for less than one year are taxed at 15%.

3. Tax-Saving Funds:

Consider investing in Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) for tax benefits under Section 80C.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide valuable guidance:

1. Personalized Advice:

CFPs offer tailored advice based on your unique financial situation and goals.

2. Portfolio Management:

They help monitor and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your objectives.

3. Tax Planning:

CFPs offer strategies to optimize your tax liabilities, maximizing your investment returns.

Final Insights
Your investment strategy is on the right track. With consistent SIPs, regular reviews, and periodic rebalancing, you can achieve your financial goals. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Increase SIPs Annually:

Boost your investment amount by 10% each year to leverage the power of compounding.

2. Monitor Performance:

Keep an eye on your portfolio’s performance and make adjustments as needed.

3. Diversify:

Continue diversifying across various fund categories to manage risk and maximize returns.

4. Stay Informed:

Keep yourself updated on market trends and fund performance to make informed decisions.

5. Seek Professional Guidance:

Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice and ongoing portfolio management.

Your commitment to long-term investing is commendable. Stay disciplined, be patient, and let the power of compounding work its magic. You are well on your way to achieving your financial aspirations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 12, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 29. I am investing 10k in ICICI pru Flexi cap, 5k in Parag Parikh Flexi cap, 5k in Nippon India Small Cap, 5k in SBI Nifty Midcap 150 Index fund, 2.5k in Quant Midcap, 2.5k in Nippon Multi cap. Will this be good for a long term investment? Say around 20 years.
Ans: Evaluating Your Investment Portfolio for Long-Term Growth

Firstly, I appreciate your proactive approach towards investing at a young age. At 29, you have a significant time horizon to build a robust portfolio for long-term growth. Your current investments reflect a diversified approach, which is essential for managing risk and maximizing returns.

Let's dive into an in-depth evaluation of your investment choices and see how they align with your 20-year investment horizon.

Portfolio Breakdown
ICICI Prudential Flexi Cap Fund: Investing Rs 10,000 per month in this fund shows your inclination towards diversified equity exposure. Flexi cap funds are versatile as they invest across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks, allowing the fund manager flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Allocating Rs 5,000 per month here adds another layer of diversification. This fund is known for its prudent stock-picking and global exposure, which can hedge against domestic market volatility.

Nippon India Small Cap Fund: With Rs 5,000 per month in this fund, you are targeting high growth potential. Small cap funds can deliver significant returns over the long term, but they come with higher risk and volatility.

SBI Nifty Midcap 150 Index Fund: Investing Rs 5,000 per month in this index fund exposes you to the mid-cap segment. While index funds are generally low-cost, it's crucial to balance them with actively managed funds for optimized performance, especially over a long-term horizon.

Quant Midcap Fund: Allocating Rs 2,500 per month here focuses on the mid-cap segment, providing growth potential with manageable risk. Actively managed mid-cap funds can often outperform their index counterparts through strategic stock selection.

Nippon Multi Cap Fund: Investing Rs 2,500 per month in this fund adds further diversification. Multi-cap funds invest across all market capitalizations, balancing risk and return effectively.

Analytical Review of Your Investment Choices
Diversification: Your portfolio is well-diversified across different market capitalizations and fund types. This helps spread risk and captures growth from various segments of the market.

Flexi Cap Funds: Both ICICI Prudential Flexi Cap and Parag Parikh Flexi Cap funds offer broad diversification. They provide the fund manager with the flexibility to switch between different market caps based on market conditions.

Small and Mid Cap Exposure: Your investment in Nippon India Small Cap and Quant Midcap funds targets the potential for higher returns. However, small and mid-cap stocks can be volatile, so these should be monitored and balanced as needed.

Index Fund Exposure: While SBI Nifty Midcap 150 Index Fund provides exposure to mid-cap stocks, actively managed funds can offer better returns due to strategic management. Over 20 years, actively managed funds can adapt to market changes more effectively.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds Over Index Funds
Active Management Advantage: Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform index funds through tactical asset allocation and stock selection. Fund managers leverage their expertise to identify undervalued stocks and market trends.

Flexibility: Unlike index funds, actively managed funds are not bound to a specific index. They can shift investments to better-performing sectors or stocks, potentially enhancing returns.

Risk Management: Actively managed funds can employ risk management strategies, such as adjusting sector allocations or increasing cash holdings during market downturns, to protect the portfolio.

Assessing Your Long-Term Investment Strategy
Compounding Effect: Investing consistently over 20 years will allow your investments to benefit from compounding. The longer you stay invested, the greater the compounding effect, leading to significant wealth accumulation.

Rebalancing: Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Rebalancing helps maintain the desired asset allocation and mitigates risk.

Economic Cycles: Over 20 years, you will experience various economic cycles. Actively managed funds can adjust their strategies to navigate these cycles, potentially offering better risk-adjusted returns.

Optimizing Your Portfolio for Better Returns
Consider Large Cap Funds: Adding a large cap fund can provide stability to your portfolio. Large cap stocks are typically more stable and less volatile, offering steady growth over the long term.

Evaluate Fund Performance: Regularly assess the performance of your chosen funds. If any fund consistently underperforms its benchmark or peers, consider replacing it with a better-performing fund.

Tax Efficiency: Understand the tax implications of your investments. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) from equity funds are taxed at 10% on gains exceeding Rs 1 lakh in a financial year. Efficient tax planning can enhance your net returns.

Financial Planning and Retirement Goals
Setting Clear Goals: Define your financial goals clearly. Whether it's retirement, buying a house, or children's education, having specific goals will help tailor your investment strategy accordingly.

Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to at least six months of your expenses. This ensures you don’t have to dip into your investments during emergencies.

Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have adequate health and life insurance coverage. This protects your family and financial goals in case of unforeseen events.

Enhancing Financial Knowledge
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with financial news, investment trends, and market developments. Continuous learning helps make informed decisions and adapt to changing market conditions.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner: For personalized advice, consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). A CFP can provide a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your unique situation and goals.

Final Insights
Your commitment to investing Rs 30,000 monthly at such a young age is impressive. Diversifying your investments across flexi cap, small cap, mid cap, and multi cap funds shows a strategic approach. However, consider the advantages of actively managed funds over index funds for potentially higher returns and better risk management. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio, stay informed about market trends, and consider professional financial advice to optimize your investment strategy for the long term.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1735 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 11, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Dear madam I have this suitaution in my life. Plz do guide me with this. So i have 2 married sisters and a brother with who i dont get along well. We used to be close back then. Later on my father passed away and then i got busy searching work. After getting work i got carried away with my newly found friendship with a boy i started spending much on him rather then my family. But still then i never neglected my family every kind of help i tried to give them. In the meanwhile i used to take care of my bedridden grandmother who used to stay in another state. Then my second sister started feeding everyone's mind against me saying i dont help them with money and i spend most on my grandmother and cousin. Though my sister were earning well still they waited me to spend on them which i stopped by then as they were earning. And there used to be a real good fight with my sisters and me regarding money issue and als my marriage thing and i gave them bitter words and also curses which i regret to this day thinking how could i do hated thing to my family .In next few years my sister got married but my second sister never invited me for her marriage and did all her wedding plans in my absence and i als never attended her wedding. I attended my 3rd sister wedding. After that my second sister plotted a plan against me by taking everyone on her side and kept me out of all the family functions. I just ignored them and decided to never to get bothered by any of this. Now the problem my 3rd sister is pregnant and they have planned a babyshower and like they are just telling me to attend it. To be honest they just told me a day before the function. How to handle this. Should i attend? And how to deal with such kind of people they seem to take advantage of my helpless. Please guide me on how to become a strong girl while taking desicion.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Learn the skill of staying away from all this drama. If you felt secure with who you are, you wouldn't think much whether you got invited or not. Do remember, people will be on your side sometimes and not on your side at other times. This goes for friends are family; so learn to be comfortable with that...
What you did for your grandmother is a choice that you made; why expect anything in return?
Life lived with least expectations is certainly a happier life...counting what people did or didn't do will take away your peace!
Real strength is not in fighting it out but knowing when to walk away from constant drama.

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Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1735 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 18, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Money
Dear Sir, What is the best % of SWP one can think of from Portfolio value. I am retired now and have say 1 Cr as MF and Share portfolio. I want to go for 40000 SWP per month thereby making 4.8% as SWP. If this is good to have this for 15 yrs
Ans: Your question shows great care for your financial future. Many retirees ignore this step. You have already taken a wise move. You want steady income. You want safety. You want long life for your money. These are very important points. I truly appreciate your clarity.

» Understanding your present plan
Your idea is simple. You have Rs 1 crore. You want Rs 40000 each month. This means Rs 4.8 lakh each year. That is 4.8 percent of your money. This is not very high. This is not very low. It sits in the middle range. Many retirees try for 7 or 8 percent. That can put pressure on the portfolio. Your 4.8 percent is more reasonable. It supports discipline. It keeps stress low.

Your idea is for 15 years. That is a good time frame. It gives space for your funds to grow. It gives time for market cycles. It also gives time for inflation adjustments.

» Why withdrawal rate matters
Your SWP rate decides how long your money will last. A high rate can drain funds soon. A very low rate may not support your monthly needs. Your 4.8 percent sits well. It balances life needs and portfolio health.

When you draw money from a mixed portfolio, the growth side helps refill your withdrawn money. The stability side helps reduce fall during bad years. This mix helps the SWP stay steady.

» Why a proper structure is important
A SWP is not only a monthly withdrawal. It is a full system. The system needs planning. It needs regular reviews. It needs a clear asset split. It needs a cushion for weak market years.

If you set this structure well now, your SWP can stay safe. Your money can stretch for many years. You can keep peace of mind.

» The importance of a balanced mix
Your portfolio may hold equity funds, hybrid funds, and debt funds. A clear mix reduces risk. It gives smooth cash flow. Equity gives growth. Debt gives steady flow. Hybrid gives balance.

Because you want monthly income for 15 years, you need a balance that supports steady SWP. A pure equity plan can shake too much. A pure debt plan may not grow at a good pace. A balanced mix is ideal.

» Equity funds need careful use
Some investors put large money in equity for SWP. This can work in strong markets. This can fail in weak markets. Your SWP must survive both market moods. That is why pure equity for SWP is not safe.

Also, you should prefer actively managed funds over index funds for long SWP. Index funds follow the index blindly. They do not manage risk actively. They cannot adjust to market cycles. Actively managed funds have a professional fund manager. A skilled manager helps in limiting risk in low years. This helps protect principal in SWP years. This support is not present in index funds.

» Debt funds form the stabiliser
Debt funds bring peace to the portfolio. They help during bad market years. They help the SWP stay steady. Because debt funds follow market rates, they work as the anchor. For SWP, this anchor is very helpful.

If you use direct debt funds, you must remember that direct funds need more tracking. They need active reviews by you. Many retired investors find this hard. Regular plans taken through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill provide guidance. Regular plans also give handholding. This handholding helps avoid wrong exits.

» How to view your Rs 40000 monthly need
You may need some money for basic needs. You may need some money for health care. You may need some money for family support. You may need some money for personal comfort. Rs 40000 per month seems a balanced number.

It does not put too much pressure on the money. It is not a very heavy load. It fits well with a Rs 1 crore fund.

» Inflation needs attention
Inflation will rise. Costs will rise. Your need will rise. Your SWP should rise slowly over time. You cannot fix your SWP for 15 years at one number. That may reduce your buying power.

A small rise every two or three years will help you beat inflation. This rise must be slow. It must match your portfolio growth.

» Risk of sharp market falls
Sharp falls can disturb SWP. A sudden big drop in equity value can pull down your portfolio. This may cause you to withdraw when market is low. That is not good. To fix this, you need enough stability in your mix.

A proper allocation in debt funds and hybrid funds can reduce this issue. You will get smoother cash flow. You will not have to worry about market news every day.

» Role of emergency money
Please keep an emergency amount. Keep this aside. Do not include it in your SWP plan. You may need money for urgent health needs. You may need money for home needs. Emergency funds help you avoid sudden selling.

A good emergency fund gives peace. It protects your SWP from sudden shocks.

» Tax rules for withdrawals
Every SWP withdrawal may include some gains. Tax will apply based on the type of fund and the gain period. This tax can have impact on net flow. You must plan for this in your withdrawal design.

Equity fund rules:

Gains under one year are short-term. These are taxed at 20 percent.

Gains above one year are long-term. Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5 percent.

Debt fund rules:

Both short-term and long-term gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

This tax part should not scare you. A proper plan can reduce the tax burden. A planned SWP can help you manage gains carefully.

» Why a Certified Financial Planner helps
You may handle small things by yourself. But retirement planning is delicate. One wrong move can disturb the whole plan. A Certified Financial Planner gives a clear road map. He helps you set the best mix. He reviews the plan every year. He adjusts the plan for market and life events.

This guidance is very useful in SWP because SWP needs discipline.

» Why not consider real estate
Some retirees think of using real estate for income. But real estate needs heavy work. It needs tenant work. It needs repair work. It needs legal care. It gives lumpy income. It gives no steady flow. So it is not fit for SWP planning.

Your present goal is steady income. Real estate will not give this.

» Why not consider annuities
Annuities give fixed income. But they lock your money. They give low returns. They do not beat inflation well. They reduce flexibility. For these reasons, they are not ideal for your long-term income.

Your idea of SWP with balanced mix is better.

» Keeping your portfolio healthy for 15 years
To keep your portfolio safe for 15 years, you must follow some habits:

Review every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Adjust asset mix if needed.

Increase SWP amount slowly.

Reduce SWP for one or two years if markets fall very deep.

Protect your money from emotional moves.

Keep a two-year buffer in a low-risk fund.

Keep your growth part running for long.

These habits help your money last for the full 15-year horizon.

» Regular review helps you adapt
Markets will change. Your health may change. Your needs may change. A yearly review will help align your plan. It will help spot issues early. It will help guide the next year’s SWP.

Without reviews, even good plans can fail.

» Why a two-year cushion helps
A cushion fund is a simple idea. Keep two years of SWP in a low-risk debt fund. This money helps you draw income even in bad market years. You will not need to sell equity in weak phases. This protects your overall money. This makes your SWP more stable.

This cushion fund is an extra shield. It supports your 15-year income plan.

» Role of diversification
Your SWP works best when your portfolio is spread well. A spread can include:

Actively managed equity funds.

Hybrid funds.

Debt funds.

This spread reduces risk. It gives smoothness. It supports long-term income.

Avoid using too many funds. Keep it simple. A small number of quality funds is better.

» How your 4.8 percent looks in practice
A 4.8 percent withdrawal rate is comfortable for a 15-year horizon. If you follow discipline, your money will not face heavy pressure. If your portfolio grows at a steady pace, your principal will not erode fast. Even if growth shifts between years, the mixed structure will protect you.

Your plan is workable. It is sensible. It is future-friendly.

» Mistakes to avoid
Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

Do not chase high-return funds.

Do not raise SWP sharply in one year.

Do not keep too much money in equity.

Do not stop reviews.

Do not shift funds often without reason.

Do not look at direct plans if you prefer guidance.

These mistakes can disturb your portfolio health. Your SWP may suffer.

» Why not use direct funds if you need support
Direct plans give lower cost. But they give no guidance. Retired investors often need guidance. They need reviews. They need discipline. A regular plan through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill gives support. It prevents panic reactions. This support is valuable in low market years.

» Healthy mindset for SWP
Try to see your SWP as a long journey. It needs calm mind. It needs steady steps. It needs slow corrections. It needs patience. If you stay steady, your SWP will stay healthy. You will enjoy peace.

» Practical steps you can start now
You may start with these steps:

Set clear needs for each year.

Fix a proper asset split.

Create a cushion fund for two years.

Start SWP from a low-risk fund or hybrid fund.

Keep equity for growth.

Add small hikes in SWP every few years.

This system supports long-term income.

» How your plan supports a joyful retired life
Your plan helps you live with comfort. It gives predictable cash flow. It gives you freedom from worry. It gives you clarity. You can focus on health, family, and peace. You do not need to watch markets each day.

Your retirement life becomes balanced.

» Final Insights
Your idea of taking Rs 40000 per month from a Rs 1 crore portfolio at 4.8 percent is workable. It fits well for a 15-year horizon. It supports your income. It protects your money if you set a balanced mix. You must follow steady reviews. You must keep a small cushion. You must avoid risky moves.

With these practices, your SWP plan can stay healthy for many years. Your future can stay peaceful and steady. You have already taken the right first step. Your clarity gives your plan strong power.

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

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

...Read more

Dr Nagarajan J S K

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Asked by Anonymous - Nov 17, 2025Hindi
Career
Is it worthwhile being an mbbs only doctor in India or is pg necessary as somebody who cannot toil 24-36 hours (as is the case with hospital duties) and is not well adequate for working under somebody and then do you still have to study after mbbs to level up or will you be contented with just mbbs. Pls don't answer objectively i really need to see the real picture
Ans: Hi Dr.
Recently, I've seen many different comments on social media suggesting that finding a job after completing an MBBS is very difficult, with some graduates even working as delivery boys.

I believe MBBS is one of the few courses that allows for immediate entrepreneurship after graduation, while other fields often require additional support to start a business. Many medical shop owners are willing to provide a small space for consultations, which is not typically an option for graduates in other disciplines.

If you are financially constrained, it may be wise to stop after completing your MBBS degree for the time being. However, pursuing a postgraduate degree (PG) significantly increases your opportunities, including potential roles in the pharmaceutical industry. Without a PG, your options may be limited. It's akin to the difference between a normal grocery store and a supermarket: completing a PG can lead to positions in corporate medical hospitals.

Initially, you might consider working at a smaller practice or in the government sector before pursuing higher education. While having an MBBS degree allows you to offer consultations, having a PG provides you with more credibility and knowledge. Understand your strengths and weaknesses, and don’t worry about others—proceed based on your own abilities and circumstances.
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