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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 21, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 31, 2025Hindi
Money

Sir I am 29 year old with 65k salary per month ,I have four personal loan 1)15lacs at 12.3% remaining emi-60 2)3lacs at 12.3% remaining emi-55 3)2.4lac at 17% remaining emi-60 4)9lacs at 10% remaining emi-90 No investment is there . Please guide me to repay the loan efficiently. Thanks

Ans: You reached out early. That shows real courage.

Debt can feel heavy. A plan brings relief.

Clear steps now protect your future self.

Current Liability Snapshot

Personal loan one: Rs 15 lakh, rate 12.3%, 60 EMIs left.

Personal loan two: Rs 3 lakh, rate 12.3%, 55 EMIs left.

Personal loan three: Rs 2.4 lakh, rate 17%, 60 EMIs left.

Personal loan four: Rs 9 lakh, rate 10%, 90 EMIs left.

Combined outstanding stands near Rs 29.4 lakh today.

Weighted interest hovers around 12.5% each year.

Monthly salary equals Rs 65,000 after tax.

Current EMIs likely consume huge income share.

Cash Flow Diagnosis

List every rupee earned and spent this month.

Split spends into essential and flexible groups.

Essentials include food, rent, power, transport, school fees.

Flexible items include dining out, subscriptions, shopping, hobbies.

Aim to know actual monthly EMI outgo first.

Combine all EMIs; note exact bank debit date.

Add essential bills; note due dates too.

Subtract essentials and EMIs from salary.

Observe leftover cash or shortfall amount.

This visibility builds further action steps.

Expense Trim Strategy

Target flexible spends first; they respond fastest.

Cancel unused streaming and gym memberships now.

Shift eating out from weekly to monthly treat.

Cook bulk meals on weekends to save gas.

Carpool or use bus twice weekly.

Buy groceries during discount days only.

Bargain yearly insurance premium instead of monthly.

Shop generic brands for cleaning products.

Review mobile data plan; pick smaller pack.

Share kids’ sport equipment through community group.

Postpone smartphone upgrade by one year.

Use older clothes until fully worn.

Emergency Buffer Plan

Debt creates risk; buffer prevents panic.

Begin micro buffer before large repayments accelerate.

Set target Rs 50,000 within six months.

Park savings in bank sweep account.

Automate Rs 5,000 monthly to this buffer.

Use buffer only for real emergencies.

Refill buffer whenever you draw.

Increase target to three months expense once debt ends.

Debt Payoff Framework

Decide repayment order using clear logic.

Two classic routes exist: avalanche and snowball.

Avalanche clears costliest interest first.

Snowball clears smallest loan first.

Avalanche saves more interest overall.

Snowball builds faster confidence.

Choose route matching your temperament.

Remain disciplined whichever route chosen.

Allocate every extra rupee toward chosen focus loan.

Celebrate each closed loan quickly.

Do not relax contributions after success.

Roll freed EMI into next loan.

Avalanche Plan Steps

Focus extra payments on 17% loan.

Keep paying minimum on other loans.

Channel every savings from expense trim here.

Pay salary increments, bonus, gift money towards focus.

Your high rate loan will shrink quickest.

Interest saved then fuels later Paydowns.

Next switch to loan at 12.3% higher balance.

After that handle second 12.3% loan.

Finally clear 10% loan which is cheapest.

Maintain strict monthly tracker sheet.

Snowball Plan Comparison

Some people need quick wins.

Snowball gives that morale boost.

Here target Rs 2.4 lakh loan first.

Pay extra every month until closed.

Freed EMI adds to Rs 3 lakh loan.

Momentum builds while interest cost little higher.

Choose this only if motivation feels shaky.

Still track total interest difference each quarter.

Restructuring And Consolidation

Approach bank for single low rate top?up loan.

Seek unsecured loan below 11% if credit good.

Use proceeds to close 17% loan immediately.

Also close smaller 12.3% loan if possible.

Avoid longer tenure; choose shortest affordable.

Refrain from balance transfer charges that erase gains.

Do not borrow from informal lenders.

Never pledge gold for consumption needs.

Treat consolidation as one?time rescue, not habit.

Close old loan accounts and collect NOC.

Income Expansion Ideas

Request skill upgrade subsidy from employer.

Upskill in demand software to gain appraisal.

Apply for internal project incentives actively.

Offer weekend tutoring in your strong subject.

Convert hobby into paid micro gig online.

Sell unused gadgets on marketplace.

Claim legitimate reimbursements faster at office.

Use tax saving proofs to adjust TDS right.

Ask spouse to revive career if possible.

Direct every extra rupee to debt first.

Behavioural And Habit Tips

Set visual debt thermometer on fridge door.

Update outstanding figure every payday.

Discuss progress weekly with family support.

Avoid comparison with friends’ lifestyles.

Leave credit card at home often.

Delete shopping apps from phone.

Sleep over before impulse purchase decisions.

Practise gratitude journaling to reduce shopping urges.

Remind self that debt?free equals freedom.

Picture future self thanking today’s effort.

Risk Cover Check

Confirm employer medical policy coverage.

Supplement with personal Rs 10 lakh health cover later.

Term life cover now missing.

Buy pure term insurance for Rs 1 crore.

Choose level cover till age 60.

Premium fits budget if purchased early.

Future Investment Roadmap

Debt gone then buffer built.

Next channel surplus into wealth creators.

Prefer actively managed equity mutual funds.

Managers research companies and adjust weights.

They protect from sector concentration.

Index funds simply copy index composition.

They hold weak firms until removal.

That drags long term return.

Active funds may charge more, yet deliver alpha.

Invest through regular plans via CFP supervised MFD.

Distributor offers behaviour coaching and review.

Direct plan investors sometimes exit in panic.

That hurts CAGR badly.

Start SIP once debt ratio near zero.

Begin with Rs 5,000 monthly into balanced equity fund.

Increase SIP with yearly hike.

Set specific goals: house down payment, retirement, kids college.

Align each goal with dedicated fund folio.

Use systematic transfer from debt fund to equity for lumpsum.

Rebalance annually to maintain allocation.

Keep equity share high until age 45.

Shift gradually to short duration debt beforehand event.

Use new capital gains rules wisely.

Book gains below Rs 1.25 lakh each year.

That manages 12.5% tax cap.

Debt fund gains follow your slab rate.

Harvest losses when market dips to offset gains.

Tax Points

Claim 80C through EPF deduction.

After debt, open PPF for 15 years.

Use health premium for 80D benefit.

Keep loan interest certificates for 80E only if educational.

Pre?pay loans; interest not deductible on personal loans.

Finally

Face debt head?on using structured plan.

Track expenses daily, cut leaks quickly.

Build starter buffer against shocks.

Choose avalanche or snowball; commit without excuses.

Boost income and channel everything extra into debt.

Stay insured to avoid fresh borrowing after illness.

After freedom, automate disciplined investing via active funds.

Review progress yearly with Certified Financial Planner.

Remember each small step improves tomorrow’s peace.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 16, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 16, 2025
Money
Dear sir, i have a personal loan of 28 lacs with emi of 70k, i hv no MF or other saving. I have a salary of 1.5 lac/month. How can i pay this loan as soon as possible..
Ans: You are earning Rs. 1.5 lakh per month. You are paying Rs. 70,000 as EMI. You have no savings or mutual funds. You are carrying a large personal loan of Rs. 28 lakhs. You are worried and want to close this loan soon. You are not alone. Many professionals go through this phase.

You are earning well. That’s your biggest strength now. You want a clear plan. That’s a very good decision. Let us now evaluate your situation in detail. Let’s move towards a solution, step by step.

Understanding Your Present Cash Flow
Your salary is Rs. 1,50,000 per month.

Your EMI is Rs. 70,000 per month. That is nearly 47% of your income.

You have no other EMIs or savings at this moment.

You are using the rest of Rs. 80,000 for your expenses.

You want to become loan-free as early as possible.

This intention is very good. Stay consistent with that.

Step 1: Evaluate and Trim Monthly Expenses
Write down every single monthly expense.

Split into essentials and non-essentials.

Try to reduce expenses by 20–30%.

Cancel unwanted subscriptions, upgrades, or luxuries.

Limit outings, dining, gadgets, and impulsive spends.

If you are living alone, shift to a modest house.

If you are supporting family, discuss financial goals together.

Try to save Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000 more each month.

Your goal is to free up maximum cash flow.

Step 2: Create an Emergency Reserve
Loan EMI is high. So, you must plan for emergencies.

Keep 2 months’ worth of EMI and basic expenses aside.

That means around Rs. 2 lakh in savings account or liquid fund.

Do not touch this amount unless urgent.

It will protect your credit score during job loss or illness.

Build it slowly over 6–8 months.

Keep it parked separately, not mixed with other expenses.

Step 3: Prioritise Loan Repayment
Your main goal is to repay the Rs. 28 lakh loan quickly.

Use every extra rupee for part-payment.

Contact your bank to know prepayment terms.

Ask if there are charges for extra payments.

Try to part-pay every 6 months.

Even Rs. 1 lakh every 6 months can reduce tenure.

Avoid extending the tenure for short-term relief.

Focus on reducing principal, not EMI amount.

Never miss EMI. It affects credit and future loan options.

Step 4: Avoid Taking Any New Loan
Do not apply for car, gadget, or holiday loans.

Say no to top-up on personal loans.

Do not buy items on credit cards or EMI offers.

Personal loan is already a costly loan.

Your focus should remain on clearing it, not adding to it.

Step 5: Protect Yourself With Term Insurance
In case of sudden death, the burden shifts to family.

Take a pure term insurance cover of Rs. 1 crore.

Premium is low if taken at a younger age.

It will not return money but gives protection.

Avoid any endowment or return-based insurance now.

Keep insurance and investment separate always.

Step 6: Don’t Invest While Repaying Loan? No.
Many think they must repay the loan fully before investing.

But you are still young. Time is on your side.

Wealth creation also needs early action.

So, start small SIPs while repaying loan.

Begin with Rs. 3,000–5,000 per month if possible.

Gradually increase SIP with every increment or bonus.

Don’t wait for a “perfect time” to invest.

Discipline matters more than timing.

Step 7: Avoid Direct Mutual Fund Investing
Some people invest directly without guidance.

Direct plans have no human advisor.

Mistakes and panic are more likely without support.

Performance tracking, rebalancing, goal alignment is missing.

It may look cheaper, but it costs more in long term.

Better to invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP.

Regular plans give ongoing service and portfolio control.

That’s how you stay committed and consistent.

Step 8: Why Not Index Funds?
Index funds follow stock index without human skill.

They copy the market. They don’t beat it.

They lack flexibility during market crashes.

They can’t avoid bad stocks in index.

You need alpha, not average returns.

Actively managed funds offer better growth options.

Fund managers analyse and select best stocks actively.

This approach fits your goal better.

Step 9: Create a Bonus Utilisation Strategy
Use your annual bonus wisely.

Keep 10% for personal use.

Use 40% for loan part-payment.

Use 30% for emergency fund building.

Use 20% for starting or increasing investments.

This strategy balances loan and wealth building.

Step 10: Build Financial Habits
Set monthly bank auto-debit for SIP and savings.

Track spending weekly using a mobile app.

Read about financial awareness 15 minutes weekly.

Review your money goals every 3 months.

Reward yourself when you stay consistent.

Share progress with family or trusted friend.

Step 11: Stop All High-Interest Debt
If you are using credit cards, pay full amount monthly.

Never roll over or pay minimum due only.

Credit card interest is higher than personal loan.

Stop using credit card till loan is reduced.

Avoid payday loans, buy-now-pay-later, or fast cash apps.

Step 12: Plan For Next 3 Years
In next 3 years, aim to reduce 40–50% of loan.

Start investing alongside debt repayment.

Slowly reduce lifestyle expenses.

Make yearly part-payments without fail.

Increase income through part-time consulting or freelancing.

Even Rs. 10,000 extra income helps in early closure.

Step 13: Track Credit Score and Loan Behaviour
Download credit report every 6 months.

Keep your score above 750 always.

Never delay EMI even by 1 day.

Do not apply for too many loans or credit cards.

A healthy score keeps your options open in future.

Step 14: Avoid Mixing Insurance and Investment
Do not buy ULIPs, endowment or money-back plans.

These give low returns, long lock-ins, and poor liquidity.

Focus on mutual funds for wealth building.

Keep term insurance for protection.

Do not fall for “tax-saving + insurance” traps.

Step 15: Choose Right Mutual Fund Strategy
Select 2–3 equity mutual funds with growth track record.

Begin SIP with small amount like Rs. 3,000–5,000.

Choose regular plans via MFD with CFP credential.

Review performance yearly.

Invest for long term, not for short term gains.

Don’t stop SIP during market crash. Add more if possible.

Step 16: Discipline and Patience Are Game Changers
Becoming debt-free takes time and patience.

Avoid shortcuts or emotional financial decisions.

Be consistent with part-payments and SIPs.

Track your money monthly.

Reward yourself for milestones achieved.

Celebrate progress without spending more.

Finally
You are earning well. That is your best asset now.

Your loan is high. But it can be reduced with discipline.

You need a plan. You now have it.

Cut expenses. Start saving. Make regular part-payments.

Also begin investing. Even with small amount.

Don’t delay building wealth.

Don’t wait till loan is over.

Take term cover. Avoid credit traps.

Invest through mutual funds with CFP and MFD.

Avoid index funds. Avoid direct plans.

Stay on track. Review progress yearly.

You will win over time. You have already taken the first step.

Keep walking. Stay focused. Stay steady.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 16, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 16, 2025
Money
Hi Sir, Good morning, i am 35 yrs old, i have multiple personal loans upto 50L with emi 1.3L per month for next 4 to 5 years. I am salaried employee and i am earning 1.5L per month. I dont have any other savings till now. Please suggest me a way to clear my loans as soon as possible and to start investing for a better future for my kid and also for my retirement. Thank you
Ans: You are 35 years old. Your monthly income is Rs. 1.5 lakh. Your personal loan burden is Rs. 50 lakh. Monthly EMI is Rs. 1.3 lakh. No savings at present. You also have a child to plan for. This is a difficult financial stage. But it is possible to rebuild. Step by step progress is needed. Let me walk you through a complete solution.

Assessing Your Current Financial Health

You earn Rs. 1.5 lakh. But Rs. 1.3 lakh goes towards EMI.

This leaves only Rs. 20,000 each month.

You are highly leveraged. Debt-to-income ratio is very high.

You have no emergency fund. This increases financial risk.

Loan EMIs will continue for 4–5 years. That’s a long commitment.

At this stage, saving is difficult. But still, it must be planned slowly.

There are no investments yet. But you have time. Age is still in your favour.

You have a child. Long-term responsibilities will come.

You need to plan for retirement too. Without delay.

Step 1: First Reduce Financial Stress

You must first bring EMI burden down. That is the first goal.

Explore loan consolidation. Approach your bank.

Take a top-up on one personal loan. Use it to close others.

Or approach a lending platform. Ask for a lower EMI plan.

Choose longer tenure. That will reduce EMI load.

Target to bring EMI to Rs. 80,000 or less.

That gives you more monthly surplus to work with.

Also, speak to banks for restructuring option. Many offer it now.

Always pay EMIs on time. Avoid penalty and credit score damage.

Avoid new loans or credit cards. Even if pre-approved.

Step 2: Track Your Monthly Spending Closely

Maintain a spending journal. Record every rupee.

Create three buckets. Essentials, non-essentials, and EMIs.

Cut down non-essential spends. Start with OTT, dining, shopping.

Even Rs. 5,000 saving monthly can help you start.

Avoid small loans for big purchases. Save and buy later.

Family must be aligned. Spouse support is critical.

Don’t try to impress others with spending. Focus on goals.

Step 3: Start Building an Emergency Fund

You need at least Rs. 1.5 lakh as emergency reserve.

Start with just Rs. 2,000 monthly. Gradually increase to Rs. 5,000.

Use recurring deposit initially. Keep it separate.

Once you reach Rs. 1.5 lakh, don’t touch it unless urgent.

Emergency fund reduces loan dependency later.

It also brings peace of mind during job or health crisis.

Step 4: Protect Your Income First

Take a term insurance. Cover of Rs. 1 crore is minimum.

Premium is low. Less than Rs. 1,000 per month.

Your child’s future depends on this cover.

This is a must. Not optional. Don’t postpone it.

Also get health insurance. Minimum cover Rs. 5 lakh.

You and your family must be included.

This avoids medical debt. Many families fall due to this.

Don’t rely only on company insurance.

Step 5: Start Small and Smart Investments

Even if only Rs. 2,000 monthly is free, start investing.

Use mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner.

Choose regular plans. Not direct. Regular gives you support.

Direct plans save cost but miss expert guidance.

CFP-guided MFDs monitor and adjust for you.

Regular plans with advisor keep your discipline on track.

Actively managed funds have better potential returns than index funds.

Index funds don’t protect in market crashes. No flexibility to exit.

Active funds are managed with care. Portfolio is adjusted to changes.

Start with balanced funds. They suit beginners.

Slowly diversify into large-cap and flexi-cap.

Increase SIP every 6 months. Even by Rs. 500.

Keep SIP automated. Don’t stop due to market fear.

Step 6: Create a Simple Financial Goal Map

Break your goals into short, medium, and long term.

Short term: Emergency fund, debt reduction.

Medium term: Child education fund.

Long term: Retirement planning.

Write them down. Attach target years.

Assign expected cost to each goal.

Track your progress every 6 months.

This creates focus. Helps you stay on path.

Step 7: Slowly Reduce Loans Faster

As income grows, increase loan repayments.

Use yearly bonus or incentives to prepay loans.

Even one extra EMI per year shortens your term.

Target small loans first. Close them fully.

Create a snowball effect. Debt falls faster.

But don’t stop investing completely. Balance both.

Avoid emotional spending during festivals and functions.

Step 8: Say No to Wrong Products

Don’t invest in ULIPs or endowment plans.

Their returns are very low. Lock-in is very long.

You already have loan pressure. Don’t take insurance-linked products.

Never mix investment and insurance. Keep them separate.

No annuities needed either. They are rigid and give poor returns.

Avoid chit funds or private schemes. Too risky.

Don’t invest in real estate now. You can’t afford loan again.

Step 9: Build Credit Score Slowly

Pay all EMIs on or before time. Never delay.

Avoid minimum payments on credit cards.

Don’t apply for more loans or cards.

After 6 months, check CIBIL score.

If score is below 700, work on it.

Better score gives better interest in future.

Step 10: Involve Your Family in the Journey

Talk openly with spouse. Involve in money decisions.

Create joint targets. Share progress monthly.

If any family member asks for money, explain situation.

Family support will reduce emotional pressure.

Step 11: Secure Your Child’s Future Smartly

Once debt pressure is lower, start a separate SIP.

Name the SIP with child’s goal. That motivates discipline.

Education cost rises fast. Delay will hurt.

Don’t wait for loans to end. Start small for child.

Keep these investments untouched till maturity.

Review every year. Increase slowly.

Step 12: Retirement Planning is Not Optional

You are 35 now. Retirement is 25 years away.

But delay reduces your final wealth.

Start SIP for retirement separately.

Even Rs. 1,000 monthly matters now.

Retirement fund should not mix with other goals.

After loans are over, shift EMI amount to retirement SIP.

Finally

You are in a tight spot today. But you are taking the right step now.

Loan burden is high, but manageable. Plan must be tight and consistent.

You are still young. That’s your strength. Use next 5 years wisely.

Start small, stay consistent. Don’t lose patience if results are slow.

Avoid shortcuts. Don’t chase fast money schemes.

Take the support of a Certified Financial Planner.

Get a long-term investment roadmap designed for your goals.

Over time, you will move from debt-heavy to wealth-creating.

Your child and your retired self will thank you later.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 11, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 10, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello. I am 30 years old and currently employed in a Public Sector Undertaking, earning a net monthly salary of approximately 75,000 rupees. I would like advice on reducing my monthly loan repayment burden. My current liabilities are: Personal loan with an outstanding balance of 380,000 rupees, monthly EMI of 7,191 rupees, interest rate of 12.5%, with 73 months remaining. Overdraft against my Provident Fund of 540,000 rupees, interest rate of 5.95%. Long-term personal loan with an outstanding balance of 480,000 rupees, monthly EMI of 6,600 rupees, interest rate of 7%. Consumer loan with an outstanding balance of 55,000 rupees, interest rate of 5.95%, monthly EMI of 1,800 rupees. My monthly expenses are approximately 20,000 rupees for household needs, 8,500 rupees for house rent, and 5,000 rupees for miscellaneous expenses.
Ans: You are already showing discipline by tracking your loans and expenses clearly.
You are also managing multiple liabilities without default.
This shows strong commitment towards financial stability.

» Understanding your income and liabilities
– Your net monthly salary is Rs. 75000.
– You have four active loans.
– Personal loan EMI is Rs. 7191 at 12.5% interest.
– Overdraft against PF is Rs. 540000 at 5.95% interest.
– Long-term personal loan EMI is Rs. 6600 at 7% interest.
– Consumer loan EMI is Rs. 1800 at 5.95% interest.
– Household needs take Rs. 20000 monthly.
– House rent is Rs. 8500.
– Miscellaneous costs are Rs. 5000.

» Assessing EMI burden
– EMI total is over Rs. 15000 monthly.
– EMI share of income is around 20%.
– This is manageable but can be improved.
– High-interest personal loan is the biggest cost burden.
– Overdraft and consumer loan have low interest but still add pressure.

» Strategy for reducing interest cost
– Focus first on highest interest loan.
– Prepay personal loan at 12.5% whenever surplus is available.
– Even small prepayments reduce interest over time.
– Avoid using fresh personal loans for any purpose.
– Do not prepay low-interest loans before closing high-interest ones.

» Role of overdraft against PF
– Overdraft rate is much lower than personal loan.
– If possible, increase PF overdraft slightly to close part of high-interest personal loan.
– This is beneficial only if repayment discipline is maintained.
– Once personal loan is closed, focus on reducing overdraft gradually.

» Handling the long-term personal loan
– This loan is at 7% interest, which is not high.
– Do not rush to close it before clearing costlier loans.
– Maintain regular EMI without delay.
– Prepay later only after high-interest loans are cleared.

» Clearing the consumer loan
– Consumer loan is small and low interest.
– Closing it early will free Rs. 1800 monthly.
– This extra can go to personal loan prepayment.
– This creates psychological relief as well.

» Balancing loan closure and savings
– Avoid using all savings for loan closure.
– Keep at least 3 to 4 months expenses as emergency fund.
– This ensures no fresh loans during sudden needs.
– Allocate surplus after this for aggressive loan prepayment.

» Creating a surplus for prepayment
– Your expenses are Rs. 33500 including rent and misc.
– After EMI and expenses, some surplus remains.
– Track this surplus and direct it towards high-interest loan closure.
– Avoid lifestyle spending until loans are reduced.

» Managing monthly cash flow
– Maintain a clear monthly budget sheet.
– Categorise expenses into essential and optional.
– Reduce optional spends for 12 to 18 months.
– Use savings from reduced spends for prepayments.

» Avoiding future debt build-up
– Do not take new consumer loans for non-essential purchases.
– Avoid buying on EMI unless unavoidable.
– Plan purchases with savings instead of credit.
– This prevents repeating current loan situation.

» Protecting yourself with insurance
– Ensure you have adequate term insurance cover.
– Cover should be at least 10 times your annual income.
– Have a good health insurance plan beyond employer cover.
– This avoids using loans for medical emergencies.

» Using investments wisely for debt management
– If you hold low-return deposits, consider using them to close high-interest loans.
– Avoid touching PF principal as it is for retirement.
– Only interest or overdraft from PF can be considered strategically.
– Do not break long-term high-growth investments unless debt cost is much higher.

» Long-term debt-free goal
– Set a clear target to be debt-free in 3 to 5 years.
– Focus on one loan at a time for faster results.
– Celebrate each closure to maintain motivation.
– After becoming debt-free, redirect EMI amount to investments.

» Maintaining credit score during repayments
– Always pay EMIs on time, even during prepayment phase.
– Do not miss payments to avoid credit score drop.
– High score will help if you ever need future low-cost loans.

» Psychological impact of loan reduction
– Reducing EMI burden improves peace of mind.
– Surplus cash gives flexibility for emergencies.
– You can focus on wealth creation sooner.
– Debt freedom increases confidence in financial decisions.

» Building financial discipline for future
– Follow strict budgeting until all high-cost loans are cleared.
– Save first, spend later every month.
– Keep track of all loan balances to monitor progress.
– Avoid emotional purchases that harm cash flow.

» Finally
– You are already handling your loans responsibly.
– Start by closing consumer loan and then high-interest personal loan.
– Use PF overdraft wisely only to replace higher interest debt.
– Maintain emergency fund before aggressive prepayments.
– Keep long-term personal loan for later closure as cost is low.
– After becoming debt-free, invest EMI savings into growth assets.
– This approach will steadily reduce your EMI burden while protecting financial stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
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I am 47 years old. I have started investing in mutual fund (SIP) only since last one year due to some financial obligations. Currently I am investing Rs.33K per month in various SIPS. The details are: Kotak Mahindra Market Growth (Rs. 1500), Aditya BSL Low Duration Growth (Rs. 1400), HDFC Mid-cap Growth (Rs. 12000), Nippon India Large Cap Growth (Rs. 3000), Bandhan small cap (Rs. 5000), Motilal Oswal Flexicap Growth (Rs. 5000), ICICI Pru Flexicap growth (Rs. 5000). I have also started to invest Rs. 1,50,000 per year in PPF since last year. Can I sustain if I retire by the age of 62?
Ans: I can help you with your retirement planning.
You have given a very detailed picture of your investments.
You have also shown strong intent to build wealth at 47.
This itself is a big positive start.

Your Current Efforts

– You started late due to obligations.
– That is understandable.
– You still took charge.
– You now invest Rs.33K every month.
– You also invest Rs.1,50,000 a year in PPF.
– You follow discipline.
– You follow consistency.
– These habits matter the most.
– These habits will help your retirement.
– You deserve appreciation for this foundation.

» Your Current Investment Mix

– You invest in various equity funds.
– You also invest in one low duration debt fund.
– You invest across mid cap, large cap, flexi cap, and small cap.
– This gives you some spread.
– You also invest in PPF.
– PPF gives safety.
– PPF gives steady growth.
– This mix creates balance.

– Please note one point.
– You hold direct plans.
– Direct plans look cheaper outside.
– But they are not always helpful for long-term investors.
– Many investors pick wrong funds.
– Many investors track markets wrongly.
– Many investors redeem at wrong times.
– This affects returns more than the saved expense ratio.
– Regular plans through a MFD with CFP support give guidance.
– Regular plans also help you stay on track.
– Behaviour gap is a major cost in direct funds.
– Thus regular plans with CFP support work better for long-term investors.
– They can correct mistakes.
– They can help with asset mix.
– They can help you stay steady during market drops.
– This gives higher final wealth than direct funds in most cases.

» Your Retirement Age Goal

– You plan to retire at 62.
– You are 47 now.
– You have 15 years left.
– Fifteen years is still a strong time line.
– You can allow compounding to work well.
– Your corpus can grow meaningfully by 62.
– You can also improve your savings rate during this time.

» Assessing If Your Current Plan Supports Retirement

– There are many parts to assess.
– You need to look at your saving rate.
– You need to look at your growth rate.
– You need to look at your future lifestyle cost.
– You need to look at inflation.
– You need to look at post-retirement income need.
– You need to see if your present plan matches this.

– Right now, your total yearly investment is:
– Rs.33K per month in SIP.
– That is Rs.3,96,000 per year.
– Plus Rs.1,50,000 in PPF each year.
– So your total yearly investment is Rs.5,46,000.
– This is a good number.
– This can help your retirement journey.

» Understanding Equity Funds in Your Mix

– You invest in mid cap.
– Mid cap can give good growth.
– Mid cap also carries higher swings.
– You invest in small cap.
– Small cap is the most volatile.
– It can give high returns if held for long.
– But it needs patience.
– You invest in large cap exposure.
– Large cap gives stability.
– You invest in flexi cap.
– Flexi cap funds adjust strategy.
– Flexi cap funds give managers more control.
– Active management is useful in Indian markets.
– Fund managers can shift between market caps.
– They can pick good sectors.
– This improves return potential.
– This is a benefit that index funds do not have.
– Index funds just copy the index.
– Index funds do not avoid weak companies.
– Index funds cannot take smart calls.
– Index funds also rise in cost whenever the index churns.
– Active funds can protect downside.
– Active funds can find better opportunities.
– This is helpful for long-term wealth building.
– So your move towards active funds is fine.

» Understanding PPF in Your Mix

– Your PPF adds stability.
– It gives assured growth.
– It also gives tax benefits.
– It builds a stable part of your retirement base.
– It reduces overall risk in your portfolio.
– It works well over long years.
– You have also chosen a steady long-term asset.
– This is beneficial for retirement.

» Gaps That Need Attention

– Your funds are scattered.
– You hold too many schemes.
– Each additional scheme overlaps with others.
– This reduces impact.
– It also becomes hard to track.
– You can reduce your scheme count.
– A more focused mix can give smoother progress.
– Rebalancing becomes easier.
– You can keep fewer funds but maintain asset spread.
– You can also map each fund to a purpose.

– You also need clarity about your retirement income need.
– Many investors skip this.
– You must know how much money you need per month at 62.
– You must add inflation.
– You must add health needs.
– You must also add lifestyle goals.

» Your Future Lifestyle Cost

– Your cost will rise with inflation.
– Inflation affects food, transport, medical needs.
– Medical inflation is higher than normal inflation.
– Retirement planning must consider this.
– You also need to consider family responsibilities.
– You must consider emergencies.
– You must also consider rising cost of daily life.
– This helps estimate the required retirement corpus.

» Your Future Corpus From Current Savings

– Without giving strict numbers, you can expect growth.
– You invest steadily.
– You invest for 15 years.
– Your equity portion can grow better over long time.
– Your PPF gives predictable growth.
– Your mix can create a decent retirement base.
– But you will need to increase your SIP over time.
– You can raise your SIP by 5% to 10% each year.
– Even small increases help.
– This builds a stronger corpus.
– Your final retirement amount becomes much higher.

» Need for Periodic Review

– Markets change.
– Life situations change.
– Your goals may shift.
– Your income may rise.
– Your responsibilities may change.
– Review every year.
– Adjust as needed.
– A Certified Financial Planner can help.
– This gives clarity.
– This gives structure.
– This gives confidence.
– You can reduce mistakes.
– You can follow proper asset allocation.

» Asset Allocation Approach for Smooth Growth

– You must decide your ideal equity percentage.
– You must decide your ideal debt percentage.
– If you take too much equity, risk increases.
– If you take too little equity, growth reduces.
– You must keep balance.
– It must match your risk comfort.
– It must support your retirement goal.
– Right allocation brings discipline.
– Rebalancing once a year helps.
– Rebalancing controls emotion.
– Rebalancing increases long-term returns.
– Rebalancing keeps your portfolio healthy.

» Importance of Staying Invested During Market Swings

– Markets move up and down.
– Swings are normal.
– Equity grows over long time.
– Equity needs patience.
– People often fear drops.
– They exit at wrong time.
– This hurts long-term wealth.
– You must stay steady.
– You must trust your long-term plan.
– You must follow guidance.
– This improves retirement success.

» Avoiding Common Mistakes

– Many investors pick funds based on recent returns.
– This is risky.
– Fund selection needs deeper view.
– Fund must match your risk.
– Fund must match your time horizon.
– Fund must have consistent process.
– Fund must show reliable pattern.
– Avoid sudden changes.
– Avoid chasing trends.
– Stay with a disciplined plan.
– This ensures better results.

– You must avoid mixing too many categories.
– Focused mix works better.
– Smaller set makes control easy.
– This reduces confusion.

– Do not rely on direct funds for long-term goals.
– Direct funds lack guided support.
– Behavioral mistakes cost more than the lower expense ratio.
– Regular plans help you stay invested.
– They help avoid panic.
– They help during reviews.
– They help create proper asset allocation.
– They help you use the fund in the right way.
– Investment discipline is more important than low cost.
– Regular plans with CFP support deliver this discipline.

» Inflation Protection Through Growth Assets

– Equity protects from inflation.
– PPF adds safety.
– Balanced mix protects your purchasing power.
– Retirement needs this balance.
– Long-term equity portion helps create a healthy corpus.
– This allows you to meet rising living cost.

» How to Strengthen Your Retirement Plan From Now

– Increase SIP every year.
– Even slight hikes help.
– Be consistent.
– Avoid stopping during market drops.
– Do a yearly check-up.
– Reduce scheme count.
– Keep a clear structure.
– Assign each fund a purpose.
– Build an emergency fund.
– This will protect your SIP flow.
– Continue PPF.
– It gives stability.
– It protects your long-term needs.

» Possibility of Sustaining Life After Retirement

– Yes, you can sustain.
– But it depends on three things:
– Your future living cost.
– Your total corpus at retirement.
– Your discipline during retirement.

– If you continue your present saving, your base will grow.
– If you raise your SIP each year, your base will grow faster.
– If you keep a proper asset mix, your base will grow safely.
– If you avoid emotional mistakes, your base will stay strong.
– If you review yearly, your plan will stay on track.

– So sustaining life after retirement is possible.
– You just need stronger structure.
– You also need steady guidance.
– This ensures confidence.

» Retirement Income Planning After Age 62

– Your retirement income must come from a mix.
– Part from equity.
– Part from debt.
– Part from stable instruments.
– Do not depend on one source.
– Plan your withdrawal pattern.
– Take small and stable withdrawals.
– Keep some equity even after retirement.
– This helps your corpus last longer.
– Do not shift everything to debt at retirement.
– That reduces growth too much.
– Balanced approach keeps your money alive.
– This supports your life for long years.

» Health and Emergency Preparedness

– Health costs rise fast.
– You must plan for it.
– Keep health insurance active.
– Keep top-up if needed.
– Keep separate emergency money.
– Do not depend on your investments during emergencies.
– Emergency fund protects your retirement portfolio.
– This keeps compounding intact.
– You can handle shocks with ease.

» Tax Awareness

– Be aware of mutual fund tax rules.
– Equity long-term gains above Rs.1.25 lakh per year are taxed at 12.5%.
– Equity short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
– Debt funds are taxed as per your slab.
– Plan redemptions wisely.
– Do not redeem often.
– Keep long-term horizon.
– This reduces tax impact.
– This helps wealth building.

» Summary of Your Retirement Possibility

– You have a good start.
– You have a workable time frame.
– You have a steady contribution.
– You must refine your portfolio.
– You must increase SIP yearly.
– You must reduce scheme count.
– You must follow asset allocation.
– You must stay disciplined.
– You must get yearly review from a CFP.
– If you follow these, you can reach a healthy retirement base.

» Final Insights

– You are on the right path.
– You have taken the key step by starting.
– You can still create a strong retirement corpus even at 47.
– Fifteen years is enough if you stay consistent.
– Your mix of equity and PPF is good.
– With discipline and structure, your future can stay secure.
– With yearly guidance, you can avoid mistakes.
– With increased SIP, you can boost your corpus.
– You can aim for a peaceful and confident retirement at 62.

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

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Money
I am 43 yrs old, have sip in Nifty 50 - 3500 Nifty next 50 - 3000 Nippon large cap - 3500 Hdfc midcap - 2500 Parag Flexicap - 3000 Tata small cap - 1300 Gold sip - 500 Hdfc debt fund - 700, lumsum of 10000 in motilal midcap and 20k in quant small cap. accumulated around 2.30 lakhs, started from June, 2024. But overall xirr is very less 3.11. Should I continue the above sips or which sips should be stopped?
Ans: You have started early in 2024, and you already built Rs 2.30 lakhs. This shows discipline. This shows patience. This gives you a good base for your future wealth.

Your XIRR looks low now. This is normal. You started only a few months back. SIPs show low return in the start. Markets move up and down. Early numbers look flat. They look small. They look discouraging. But they improve with time. They improve with longer SIP flow. So please stay calm. The start is always slow. The finish is always strong.

Your effort is strong. Your SIP list is wide. Your savings habit is good. You started at 43 years, but you still have good time to grow your wealth. Every disciplined month builds confidence. Your choices show that you want growth. You want stability. You want balance. This is a good sign.

» Current Portfolio Snapshot
You invest in many groups.

– You invest in Nifty 50.
– You invest in Nifty Next 50.
– You invest in a large cap fund.
– You invest in a midcap fund.
– You invest in a flexicap fund.
– You invest in a small cap fund.
– You invest in gold.
– You invest in a debt fund.
– You put lumpsum in a midcap and small cap fund.

This looks wide. But wide does not mean effective. You hold too many funds in similar areas. That gives duplication. That reduces clarity. That reduces control. You need sharper structure. You need cleaner lines.

» Why Your XIRR Is Low
Your XIRR is only 3.11%. This is normal. Here is why.

– SIP started in June 2024. Very new.
– SIP amount spread across many funds.
– Market volatility in 2024 made early returns look low.
– SIP returns always look weak in early days. They grow with time.

Low short-term return is not a sign of failure. It is not a sign to stop. It is only a sign of market timing. SIP is for long periods. Not for few months.

» Problem of Index Funds in Your Portfolio
You invest in Nifty 50 and Nifty Next 50. Both are index funds. Index funds follow a fixed rule. They copy the index. They do not use research. They do not use fund manager skill. They do not adjust during bad markets. They do not protect much in down cycles. They lock you into index ups and downs.

In India, active fund managers add value. They find better stocks. They exit weak stocks faster. They manage risk better. They use research teams. They use market cycles well. They often beat index returns over long periods.

Index funds look simple. But they lack decision power. They lack flexibility. They lack protection. They give average results. They track the market exactly. They cannot outperform it.

So index funds are not the best choice for your long-term goal. Active funds give more control and more upside over long years.

» Problem of Too Many Funds
You hold too many funds across the same categories. This creates overlap. Two different schemes may hold same stocks. You think you diversify. But you repeat exposure. This weakens your plan.

Too many funds also keep your attention scattered. It reduces discipline. You waste time comparing each fund. You feel lost. You feel uncertain.

Better to keep fewer funds but stronger funds.

» Problem of Direct Funds
If any of your funds are in direct plans, please take note. Direct plans look cheaper because they have lower expense ratio. But they do not give guidance. They do not give personalised strategy. They do not give support during market falls. They do not give behavioural guidance.

Many investors make wrong moves in market dips. They stop SIPs. They redeem at the wrong time. They switch funds too often. They chase returns. This reduces wealth.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner keep you disciplined. They give structure. They give long-term guidance. They reduce errors. They reduce behaviour risk. This helps more than small cost savings.

Regular plans also offer better hand-holding for asset mix, review and goal clarity. This adds real value.

» Fund-by-Fund Assessment
Let me now look at each SIP.

Nifty 50 – This is an index fund. It is passive. It is rigid. Active large-cap funds do better in many years. You may stop this over time.

Nifty Next 50 – Another index fund. Very volatile. Very narrow. You may stop this too.

Nippon large cap – This is active. This is fine. It can stay.

HDFC midcap – This is active. Good long-term category. You can keep this.

Parag flexicap – Flexicap is versatile. Useful for long-term. You can keep this.

Tata small cap – Small caps can grow well. But they need patience. They also need limited allocation. You can keep, but maintain control.

Gold SIP – Small gold SIP is okay for safety.

HDFC debt fund – Debt brings stability. Small SIP is fine.

Lumpsum in midcap and small cap – Keep these invested. They will grow with cycles.

The two index funds are the most unnecessary parts of your plan. These can be stopped. These can be replaced with good active funds already in your system.

» Suggested Structure
You need a cleaner layout.

Keep one large cap active fund.

Keep one midcap active fund.

Keep one flexicap fund.

Keep one small cap fund.

Keep one debt fund.

Keep a small gold part.

This is enough. This gives balance. It gives clarity. It gives growth. It avoids overlap. It avoids confusion.

» SIP Continuation Guidance
Here is the simple view.

Continue your large cap SIP.

Continue your midcap SIP.

Continue your flexicap SIP.

Continue your small cap SIP.

Continue gold SIP.

Continue debt SIP in small proportion.

Stop the Nifty 50 SIP.

Stop the Nifty Next 50 SIP.

Move those two SIP amounts into your existing active funds. This gives you better long-term power.

» Behaviour and Patience
Your returns will not show big numbers for now. You need time. You need patience. You need consistency. SIP is not a race. SIP is a habit. SIP grows slowly. Then it grows big.

Do not judge your plan by the first few months. Judge it after many years. That is where SIP wins. That is where compounding works. That is where discipline shines.

» What Matters More Than Fund Names
The biggest cornerstones are:

Your discipline.

Your patience.

Your time in market.

Your stable SIP flow.

Your emotional stability.

These matter more than any fund selection. You are building them well.

» Asset Mix Guidance
Your mix of equity, debt and gold is good. But you should review this once a year. As you move closer to retirement, increase debt slowly. Reduce small cap slowly. This protects you. This stabilises your progress.

A Certified Financial Planner can help align your asset mix to your goals. This adds real value. This gives stronger structure.

» Taxation View
If you redeem equity funds in future, then keep the current rule in mind. Long-term capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakhs per year are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%. For debt funds, both gains are taxed as per your income slab.

This will matter only when you redeem. For now, your focus should be growth, not selling.

» Your Long-Term Wealth Path
You have good earnings years ahead. You have strong potential for growth. Your SIP habit is strong. You only need to clean your portfolio. You only need better structure. Then your money will grow well.

You can grow a meaningful corpus if you stay steady. You can even increase SIP when income grows. This gives faster results.

» Emotional Balance
Do not check returns every week. Do not check every month. Check once in six months. Check once in twelve months. SIP is a long game. Treat it like a long game.

Your small XIRR today does not decide your future. Your discipline decides it. You already have it.

» Step-by-Step Action Plan

Step 1: Stop Nifty 50 SIP.

Step 2: Stop Nifty Next 50 SIP.

Step 3: Keep all the remaining SIPs.

Step 4: Shift the stopped SIP amount into your existing large cap and flexicap funds.

Step 5: Continue gold and debt in small amounts.

Step 6: Review once a year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Step 7: Increase SIP amount slowly when income grows.

Step 8: Stay invested for long term.

Step 9: Do not judge returns too early.

Step 10: Keep your patience strong.

» Finally
Your foundation is strong. Your habit is disciplined. Your mix only needs refinement. Your returns will grow with time. Your portfolio will gain strength with consistency. Your path is steady. Your plan will reward you if you follow it with calm and clarity.

Best Regards,

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

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

...Read more

Shalini

Shalini Singh  |180 Answers  |Ask -

Dating Coach - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Hi. I have been in a long distance relationship since 6 months,and i have known my boyfriend since 10 months. He is very understanding, caring,and honest person. He had already told everything about us for his parents and their parents agreed. We both are financially independent. I told my relationship to my parents and they are against it as my boyfriend is from lower caste, different region, not done his degree from a reputed college but a local engineering college, and his status. They are thinking about relatives, and society what will they say, about their pride, status, and all the respect they have earned uptill now will vanish because of my decision. My parents are very protective of me and have given me everything and like me a lot.They are saying its long distance you might have met only 15 times you don't see this person daily to judge his character. If you have known this person for atleast 2/3 years, with u meeting him daily it would be different. But the person i met is honest from the start. They are hurting daily because of my decision. I cant go against them and be happy.
Ans: 1. It is wonderful you have met someone special and in last 10 months you have met him 15 times which averages to meeting him 1.5 times a month. Is it possible to increase this and meet over every second weekend. Can you both travel once.

2. Parents are parents they worry and all parents are protective of their children as are yours. But if they are declining you because of caste etc then please question them asking them to give you an assurance that if they marry you to someone of their choice things will work - In reality there can be no assurance given for any relationship - found by you or introduced by parents as relationships need work by both...both need to grow up, both of you need to be happy individuals for relationship to work + if colleges were the deciding factor then we would not see divorces of those who married in the same caste or are from Stanford, MIT, IIT, IIMs, Inseads of the world.

Here is a suggestion/ recommendation
- meet his family
- get him to meet your parents
- let both set of parents meet

all the best

...Read more

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