Hi Sir, my earning is 1.5k pm. My house expenses is around 50k pm and have 2 kids 5 (girl) &2yrs(boy) , i have 10k mf(pm), i have loan (without interest) is around 9lac, how don I plan my finance. Thanks in advance... ????
Ans: Your situation reflects a balanced financial setup, and your desire to plan efficiently for your family’s future is commendable. Let’s delve into a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your needs.
Understanding Your Financial Landscape
You earn Rs. 1.5 lakhs per month and spend Rs. 50,000 on household expenses. This leaves you with Rs. 1 lakh per month for other financial goals and obligations. Your two young children require future financial planning for education and other needs.
You also invest Rs. 10,000 per month in mutual funds and have an interest-free loan of Rs. 9 lakhs.
Cash Flow Management
Effective cash flow management is the cornerstone of any financial plan. With Rs. 50,000 monthly expenses, you have a significant amount left for savings and investments. This positive cash flow is an excellent foundation.
First, let’s prioritize your current commitments and then focus on future goals.
Managing Debt
The interest-free loan of Rs. 9 lakhs is a boon. This reduces the burden compared to interest-bearing loans. Prioritize paying off this debt within a set timeline, ideally 2-3 years. Allocate a fixed amount monthly towards this repayment. Given your current savings potential, allocating Rs. 30,000 monthly will help clear this loan in about 30 months. This disciplined approach will free up more funds for investments later.
Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is crucial for unexpected situations. You should aim to save at least 6 months of your monthly expenses, which totals Rs. 3 lakhs. Given your savings capacity, start by setting aside Rs. 20,000 per month. In 15 months, you will have a sufficient emergency corpus.
Investment Strategy
Mutual Funds
Your current monthly SIP of Rs. 10,000 in mutual funds is a great start. Mutual funds offer a variety of options suitable for different risk appetites and goals.
Equity Mutual Funds
Equity mutual funds are suitable for long-term goals, like your children’s education. These funds have the potential for high returns due to their investment in stocks. With your moderate risk appetite, you can diversify across large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds. These funds leverage the power of compounding, which can significantly grow your wealth over time.
Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds are more stable and suitable for short-term goals or as a balance to your equity investments. They invest in fixed-income securities and provide regular income with lower risk compared to equity funds.
Hybrid Mutual Funds
Hybrid funds offer a mix of equity and debt, balancing growth and stability. These are good for investors looking for moderate risk with reasonable returns.
Increasing SIPs
Once your loan is repaid, consider increasing your SIP amount. Gradually increase your SIPs to Rs. 30,000-40,000 per month. This consistent investment will accumulate substantial wealth over the years.
Avoiding Direct Funds
While direct funds might seem cost-effective due to lower expense ratios, they require active management and financial expertise. Regular funds, managed through a Certified Financial Planner, provide professional guidance and active fund management. This can enhance your portfolio performance and align investments with your financial goals.
Children's Education Planning
Education costs are rising, and early planning is crucial.
Child Education Plan
Invest in child education plans offered by mutual funds. These funds are tailored for long-term growth and can help meet significant education expenses. Start with a mix of equity and hybrid funds to balance growth and stability.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
For your daughter, consider the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, a government-backed scheme with attractive interest rates and tax benefits. Regular contributions can secure her future education and marriage expenses.
Retirement Planning
Even though retirement might seem distant, starting early ensures a comfortable future.
National Pension System (NPS)
The NPS is an excellent retirement planning tool with tax benefits. Allocate a fixed amount monthly towards NPS. The diversified investment in equity and debt under NPS ensures a balanced growth of your retirement corpus.
Mutual Funds for Retirement
Besides NPS, continue with mutual fund SIPs. Equity mutual funds, over a long horizon, can accumulate substantial wealth. The power of compounding works best with long-term investments, making your retirement corpus grow significantly.
Insurance Planning
Adequate insurance coverage is essential to protect your family’s financial future.
Term Insurance
Ensure you have a term insurance plan covering at least 10-15 times your annual income. This ensures your family’s financial stability in case of any unforeseen event.
Health Insurance
With rising medical costs, having comprehensive health insurance is vital. Ensure your health insurance covers your entire family, including your children. A Rs. 10-20 lakh cover should be adequate given current healthcare inflation.
Long-Term Wealth Creation
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
SIPs are an excellent way to create long-term wealth. They provide the discipline of regular investing and benefit from rupee cost averaging. Increase your SIPs as your income grows and debts reduce. Focus on a diversified portfolio with a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds.
Avoiding Annuities
Annuities, while providing regular income, often come with high costs and lower returns compared to mutual funds. They also lack the flexibility and growth potential of mutual funds. Focus on building a robust mutual fund portfolio for better returns and flexibility.
Regular Review and Rebalancing
Financial planning is not a one-time activity. Regularly review your financial plan to ensure it aligns with your goals. Market conditions and personal circumstances change, necessitating adjustments.
Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Periodically rebalance your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation. This involves selling assets that have overperformed and buying those that have underperformed. This strategy ensures your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Final Insights
Your financial journey is unique, and with disciplined planning, you can achieve your goals. Focus on paying off your debt, building an emergency fund, and investing systematically in mutual funds. Ensure adequate insurance coverage to protect your family’s future. Regularly review and adjust your financial plan to stay on track.
Remember, the power of compounding and disciplined investing can work wonders over time. Stay committed to your financial plan, and you will see your wealth grow, securing a bright future for your family.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in