Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

29-Year-Old with 40LPA Salary Wants to Buy a 2.5Cr Flat: How to Manage Finances?

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |830 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Oct 31, 2024

Milind Vadjikar is an independent MF distributor registered with Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and a retirement financial planning advisor registered with Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
He has a mechanical engineering degree from Government Engineering College, Sambhajinagar, and an MBA in international business from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.
With over 16 years of experience in stock investments, and over six year experience in investment guidance and support, he believes that balanced asset allocation and goal-focused disciplined investing is the key to achieving investor goals.... more
Rohit Question by Rohit on Oct 25, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

I am 29 yrs old,with 40lpa in hand salary,I don't have any savings,next year I am going to get married,and my intention is to buy a flat worth 2.5 crore how to achieve and mange my finance please advise

Ans: Hello;

If you make a monthly sip of 1.2 L in Kotak equity savings fund (moderate risk) then you may expect to accumulate a sum of around 50 L in 3 years considering modest return of 9%.

You may use this as down payment for your house purchase and fund the balance through loan.

Happy Investing;
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7435 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 21, 2024

Money
Hello All. I am 46 and my earning is 40k pm. . I have investment in various equity and sgb of around 1lac. I have around 5lac in bank. What can do so that I can buy flat or plot in coming years.
Ans: At 46, with a monthly income of Rs 40,000 and a goal to buy a flat or plot, it's essential to plan strategically. Let's explore the steps to help you achieve this goal.

Understanding Your Financial Situation
Income and Savings

Your monthly income is Rs 40,000. You have Rs 1 lakh invested in equity and SGBs, and Rs 5 lakh in the bank.

Expenses and Savings Rate

Understanding your monthly expenses will help determine your savings rate. Aim to save at least 20-30% of your income, i.e., Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 monthly.

Setting Clear Financial Goals
Primary Goal

Save enough to buy a flat or plot in the coming years. Determine the approximate cost of the property you wish to purchase.

Secondary Goals

Ensure financial security for emergencies, retirement, and other long-term needs.

Building an Emergency Fund
1. Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This will safeguard you against unexpected financial setbacks.

2. Liquid Assets

Keep this fund in liquid assets like a savings account or short-term fixed deposits for easy access.

Optimizing Your Investments
1. Equity Investments

You have Rs 1 lakh in equity and SGBs. Continue investing in these for long-term growth. Equity can provide higher returns over time.

2. Bank Savings

Your Rs 5 lakh in the bank is a good start. However, bank savings offer low returns. Consider moving some funds to higher-yield investments.

Monthly Investment Strategy
1. Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Start SIPs in mutual funds. Invest Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 monthly. Choose a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds for diversification.

2. Gold Investments

Continue with SGBs as part of your investment portfolio. Gold can act as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.

Loan Repayment Strategy
1. Avoid Unnecessary Debt

Avoid taking on high-interest debt. Focus on saving and investing rather than borrowing.

2. Efficient Loan Management

If you need to take a loan for the property, plan for a manageable EMI. Aim for a tenure that balances EMI and interest payments effectively.

Enhancing Your Income
1. Side Income Opportunities

Explore ways to increase your income. This could be through freelance work, part-time jobs, or leveraging any skills you have.

2. Skill Development

Invest in learning new skills that can help you get a better-paying job or a promotion. This can significantly boost your income.

Tax Planning
1. Tax-saving Investments

Maximize your tax-saving investments under Section 80C, like PPF, EPF, and ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme). This will help reduce your tax liability.

2. Tax-efficient Returns

Opt for investments that offer tax-efficient returns. For example, long-term capital gains from equity mutual funds are taxed favorably.

Retirement Planning
1. Retirement Corpus

While your immediate goal is buying a property, ensure you also save for retirement. A diversified portfolio can help build a substantial retirement corpus.

2. Retirement Accounts

Continue with EPF and PPF, and consider investing in the National Pension System (NPS) for additional retirement savings.

Children's Education and Future Needs
1. Education Fund

If you have children, start a dedicated investment plan for their education. SIPs in equity mutual funds can help accumulate a significant corpus over time.

2. Future Expenses

Plan for future expenses like children's marriage or any other significant financial commitments. SIPs and long-term investments can aid in this.

Role of Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
1. Professional Guidance

Consulting a CFP can provide personalized advice and help in optimizing your investment strategy. They can guide you in selecting the right funds and managing your portfolio.

2. Regular Reviews

A CFP will regularly review your portfolio, ensuring it remains aligned with your goals and market conditions.

Benefits of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
1. Expert Management

Regular funds offer expert management and advice, which can lead to better investment decisions and optimized returns.

2. Convenience

Your CFP handles all the paperwork, portfolio reviews, and rebalancing, providing convenience and peace of mind.

3. Cost vs. Benefit

The slightly higher expense ratio of regular funds is justified by the professional guidance and better portfolio management they offer.

Achieving Your Property Purchase Goal
1. Consistent Investments

Invest consistently in mutual funds through SIPs. Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 monthly for several years can grow significantly with compounding.

2. Higher Returns

Equity mutual funds can provide higher returns over the long term compared to traditional investments like FD or PPF.

3. Disciplined Approach

Maintain a disciplined approach to investing. Avoid high-risk investments and focus on long-term growth.

Final Insights
Your goal of buying a flat or plot in the coming years is achievable with a structured and disciplined investment plan. Focus on mutual funds, avoid unnecessary debt, and regularly review your portfolio. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable guidance and help you stay on track to meet your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7435 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 02, 2024

Listen
Money
My monthly salary 60000. I have no any savings but right now I stay in rented house in Mumbai. I want purchase own flat Rs.60 Lakhs how’s is possible?
Ans: Current Financial Situation
Your monthly salary is Rs. 60,000. You live in a rented house in Mumbai. You have no savings currently.
Housing Goal
You want to buy a flat worth Rs. 60 lakhs. This is a big goal for your income level.
Challenges

Your income is limited compared to property prices in Mumbai
You have no existing savings to use as down payment
Mumbai real estate market is very expensive

Possible Strategies

Start saving aggressively from your salary each month
Look for ways to increase your income through side jobs
Consider more affordable areas in Mumbai's outskirts
Explore government housing schemes for first-time buyers
Look into home loan options from banks

Saving Plan

Aim to save at least 30-40% of your salary each month
Cut unnecessary expenses and create a strict budget
Start an automatic transfer to a separate savings account
Look for higher interest savings options like FDs

Increasing Income

Ask for a raise or promotion at your current job
Take on freelance work or a part-time job
Upgrade your skills to qualify for higher-paying roles

Home Loan Considerations

Most banks require 10-20% down payment
Your current income may not qualify for a Rs. 60 lakh loan
Work on improving your credit score for better loan terms

Government Schemes

Look into PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) for subsidies
Check eligibility for Maharashtra Housing schemes

Timeline Expectations

Saving for down payment may take 3-5 years or more
Be patient and consistent with your savings plan
Property prices may change, so stay updated on market trends

Finally
Buying a Rs. 60 lakh flat on a Rs. 60,000 salary is challenging. Start saving, increase income, and explore all options. Stay focused on your goal.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7435 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
Hi' I am 37 yrs old married with wife working and hardly get 45 k per month both.we have two kids aged 9 and 5 and both are studying.we are planning to buy one house in which I need to pay 20 lacs as a half payment.pls suggest us how we can manage this much of amount within 5 to 10 years. Our current monthly expenses are arround 30k something.pls help me to get this much amount at the earliest.
Ans: You have a combined monthly income of Rs 1.45 lakhs. Your expenses are Rs 30,000, leaving you with Rs 1.15 lakhs. You plan to buy a house and need Rs 20 lakhs in 5 to 10 years. This is achievable with disciplined planning and focused savings.

Setting a Realistic Savings Goal
You need to accumulate Rs 20 lakhs. Here's how you can break it down:

Monthly Savings Target: To reach Rs 20 lakhs in 5 years, save Rs 30,000-35,000 monthly. In 10 years, you’ll need to save Rs 15,000-20,000 monthly.

Prioritize: Saving for the house should be your top financial goal. Cut down on non-essential expenses.

Review Periodically: Regularly assess your savings progress. Adjust your plan if needed.

Budgeting and Cash Flow Management
Your current expenses are Rs 30,000. You can increase your savings by managing your cash flow effectively:

Essential vs. Non-Essential: Identify essential expenses like food, utilities, and school fees. Limit non-essential spending like dining out and entertainment.

Increase Savings: Aim to save Rs 40,000-50,000 monthly. This includes the savings target for the house.

Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund. This should cover 6 months of expenses.

Investment Strategy for House Purchase
To accumulate Rs 20 lakhs, a well-planned investment strategy is crucial:

Balanced Portfolio: Invest in a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid instruments. This will help you balance risk and return.

Active Fund Management: Avoid index funds. Actively managed funds offer better potential returns, especially in a dynamic market.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Start SIPs to regularly invest small amounts. This will help you build the corpus over time.

Monitor Performance: Regularly review your investments. Adjust your portfolio as needed based on market conditions.

Debt Management
Currently, you have no specific loans mentioned, but planning to buy a house will involve a significant financial commitment:

Avoid Unnecessary Debt: Don’t take on new debt until you have accumulated enough savings for the house.

Home Loan Planning: When taking a home loan, ensure the EMI is affordable. It should not exceed 40% of your combined monthly income.

Prepayment Strategy: If possible, make prepayments on the home loan. This will reduce your interest burden.

Children's Education Planning
Your children are 9 and 5 years old. Their education expenses will rise in the coming years:

Separate Education Fund: Start a dedicated education fund for your children. This will prevent any dip into your house savings.

SIP for Education: Start SIPs to build an education corpus. Align the investment horizon with their education milestones.

Review Regularly: Track the progress of the education fund. Adjust contributions as needed to ensure sufficient funds.

Insurance and Protection
Insurance is vital to protect your family and financial goals:

Life Insurance: Ensure you have adequate life insurance coverage. This will secure your family’s future in case of unforeseen events.

Health Insurance: A good health insurance policy is necessary to cover medical expenses. It will prevent you from dipping into your savings.

Home Loan Insurance: When taking a home loan, consider insurance to cover the loan. This will protect your family from the burden of repayment.

Tax Planning
Effective tax planning can enhance your savings:

Utilize Deductions: Use available tax deductions on investments, health insurance premiums, and home loan interest.

Tax-Advantaged Investments: Invest in tax-saving instruments that align with your house purchase goal. This will reduce your tax liability.

Plan Early: Start tax planning at the beginning of the financial year. This will avoid a last-minute rush.

Final Insights
You have a clear goal of buying a house. With disciplined savings, smart investments, and proper planning, you can achieve this in 5 to 10 years. Regularly review your progress and adjust your plan as needed. Your determination will lead to the fulfillment of your dream home.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7435 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 25, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi I am 27 newly married with a salary of 2lakhs per month in bengalore and my wife earns 1.5 lakh. We are planning to buy a house but currently we do not have any saving as we spent it on the wedding. We can afford the emis but without any savings currently we are not able to proceed. Also we are planning to buy a house of around 1.5cr so want to save up around 40-50 lakhs before we can proceed. Can you please guide me accordingly?
Ans: You are in a strong position, earning a combined income of Rs. 3.5 lakh per month. This is a good starting point to plan your future financial goals, such as buying a home worth Rs. 1.5 crore. Since you don’t have savings right now, your priority should be to build a solid financial foundation first.

Saving for the Home
You mentioned the goal of saving Rs. 40-50 lakh before buying the house. This is a practical approach because it helps you reduce the loan burden and increase your chances of securing a better mortgage rate. Here’s how you can go about it:

Emergency Fund: First, start by setting aside an emergency fund of around Rs. 6-8 lakh. This fund should cover 6 months of your expenses in case of unexpected events. You and your wife should have access to this fund in liquid forms like a savings account or liquid mutual funds.

Building Savings: You have the capacity to save a substantial amount. With your current income, you can aim to save Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 1.5 lakh each month. You should consider directing this amount into systematic investment plans (SIPs) in equity mutual funds, given your 5-7 year horizon before buying the house.

Investment Strategy
Given your goal of saving Rs. 40-50 lakh over the next few years, here’s how you can structure your investments:

Equity Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth: Invest in actively managed equity funds with a long-term view. Equity funds have the potential to generate higher returns over the long term. Choose funds focusing on large-cap and flexi-cap categories, as they offer a good mix of stability and growth potential.

Debt Mutual Funds for Stability: For the portion of savings you want to keep relatively safe, consider debt mutual funds. They provide better returns than savings accounts and fixed deposits, while keeping the risk lower than equity funds. This will balance out your portfolio and reduce the volatility in your savings.

SIPs: Set up SIPs for both types of funds. This will allow you to invest systematically, building wealth gradually, without trying to time the market. You could split Rs. 1 lakh into Rs. 70,000 in equity and Rs. 30,000 in debt funds, but feel free to adjust as per your risk tolerance.

Keep Track of Progress: Given your high savings rate, you should be able to accumulate Rs. 40-50 lakh in 3-4 years, assuming an average return of around 10-12% from equity investments.

Mortgage and Home Loan
Once you accumulate the required savings for the down payment, you can start looking for a home loan. Ideally, a down payment of 20-30% (around Rs. 30-45 lakh) is recommended. With your combined monthly income of Rs. 3.5 lakh, you should be eligible for a home loan. Ensure that your monthly EMI does not exceed 35-40% of your combined income, so that it remains manageable.

Key Points to Keep in Mind
Avoid Over-leveraging: Do not stretch your budget to the limit. Stick to your planned savings and down payment target. This will ensure that you do not end up with too high an EMI that affects your cash flow and lifestyle.

Review Your Expenses: Track your monthly expenses and cut down on non-essential spending. The money saved can be redirected towards your house savings or investments.

Spouse’s Income Utilization: Your wife’s income can also be used for the savings plan, particularly in the early years of your marriage. This can help you build the corpus faster.

Loan Eligibility: Once you have saved for the down payment, get in touch with banks to understand your loan eligibility. Keep a good credit score and avoid large purchases or credit card debts.

Final Insights
The combination of aggressive savings and systematic investments in equity and debt funds will allow you to reach your goal of Rs. 40-50 lakh within a few years. By setting aside a portion of your income for SIPs and maintaining a disciplined approach, you can gradually accumulate wealth and achieve your dream of buying a home. Moreover, always ensure that you keep a check on your lifestyle expenses to ensure that your savings rate remains high.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Pushpa

Pushpa R  |39 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Jan 05, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 13, 2024Hindi
Listen
Health
Hi Namita ji! I am a 41 yr old Male. I have always have too much of gas and keep passing odourless gas a lot through out the day. I have recently being diagnosed with early stages of ankylosing spondylitis. Please guide me. Also, is there any home medicines that I can take to relive from the gas.
Ans: Excessive gas can be caused by multiple factors, such as diet, gut health, or lifestyle habits. Since you've been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation might also be contributing to gut issues. Here are some tips to help manage gas and improve digestion:

Yoga Practices:
Pawanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose): This pose helps release trapped gas. Lie on your back, hug your knees to your chest one at a time, and gently press them down toward your abdomen.
Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose): Sit on your heels immediately after meals to aid digestion.
Cat-Cow Pose: This gentle movement improves spinal flexibility and stimulates digestive organs.
Home Remedies for Gas:
Ajwain (Carom Seeds) and Black Salt: Mix 1 tsp of ajwain with a pinch of black salt. Consume with warm water.
Fennel Tea: Boil fennel seeds in water, strain, and sip after meals.
Ginger and Lemon: Mix grated ginger with a few drops of lemon juice and chew before meals.
Important Notes:
Avoid gas-triggering foods like beans, carbonated drinks, and fried items.
Maintain a regular meal schedule and eat smaller portions.
Consult a healthcare provider for dietary guidance and a yoga coach for safe practice tailored to ankylosing spondylitis.

Warm Regards,
R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/

...Read more

Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |197 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Jan 04, 2025

Career
RESPECTED SIR I APPEARED CLASS 12 BOARD IN 2024 BUT I FAIL AND NOW I APPEARING IN FEBRUARY 2025 AGAIN CAN I GIVE NEET 2025 BECAUSE I WANTED TO BE DOCTOR I HAVE DREAM TO BECOME DOCTOR SINCE CLASS 4 I AM AVERAGE STUDENT
Ans: Hi Jaimin,
Greetings.




The answer which i have given below is based on last year.
ANSWER 1: If you want to pursue medicine in ARMED FORCES MEDICAL COLLEGE (AFMC), PUNE, (Information brochure Admission to MBBS course-2024, PAGE NO. 6)

GENERAL 6. A candidate seeking admission to the MBBS Course in AFMC is eligible if he / she fulfils the following criteria: - (a) The candidate should be a citizen of India. Foreign nationals of Indian origin may be admitted into AFMC only after they have acquired Indian Citizenship or in respect of whom the Ministry of Home Affairs issues a certificate of eligibility. This however does not apply to the 05 Govt Sponsored Candidates from Friendly Foreign Countries. (b) Must be unmarried. Marriage during the course is not permitted. (c) Should be medically fit as per prescribed standards by the Govt of India, Ministry of Defence (see Appendix ‘A’). (d) Age criteria: The candidate should have attained the age of 17 years at the time of admission or should be completing that age on or before 31 Dec of the year of admission of the first year of MBBS course but must not have attained the age of 24 years on that date, i.e., must have been born not earlier than 01 January 2001 and not later than 31 December 2007. Academic Qualifications 7. Candidates must have passed one of the qualifying examinations listed at sub-para (a) to (j) below in the FIRST ATTEMPT with English, Physics, Chemistry and Biology/ Bio-technology taken simultaneously and securing not less than 60% of the aggregate marks in these three science subjects taken together and not less than 50% marks in English and 50% marks in each of the science subjects. They must have also passed an examination in Mathematics of the tenth standard. The examinations are: - (a) The Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent examination in science of a statutory Indian University/board or other recognized examination body with English, Physics, Chemistry & Biology/ Bio-technology which shall include practical test in all of these science subjects. (b) The Pre-professional/Pre-Medical examination with English, Physics, Chemistry and Biology/ Bio-technology (after passing either Higher Secondary School examination or pre- University or equivalent examination) which shall include practical test in these science subjects. (c) 1st year of three years Degree course of a recognized University with English, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/ Bio-technology including practical test in science subjects provided the examination is a University Examination.

SO TO GET ADMISSION IN AFMC - 17 YEARS, FIRST ATTEMPT IN HSC, 60% AGGREGATE AND NOT LESS THAN 50% IN ENGLISH AND SCIENCE SUBJECTS.

ACCORDING TO AIIMS:
ELIGIBILITY
For Indian nationals:
An applicant is eligible for admission to the competitive Entrance Examination of the Institute if the following criteria are met with:-
Nationality: He/She is an Indian citizen
Age: He/She has attained or will attain the age of seventeen (17) years as
on the 31st of December of the year of admission. Candidates attaining seventeen   years on 1st January 2001 or later will not be eligible to appear at  the   competitive entrance examination.
Essential
Qualification:   He/She should have passed the12th Class under the 10+2 Scheme /Senior SchoolCertificate Examination or  an equivalent examination of a recognized Board of  any Indian State with ENGLISH and Medical Group of  subjects, namely   PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY (Organic and Inorganic) and BIOLOGY  (Botany and  Zoology) :
                                              OR    
The Intermediate Science (I.Sc.) or an equivalent examination of a recognized Indian university or a  recognized Board of Education of any Indian State with ENGLISH and the Medical Group of Subjects,  namely PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY (Organic and Inorganic) and BIOLOGY (Botany and Zoology):
                                               OR
Pre-Medical or Pre-Professional examination of the integrate M.B.B.S. course with ENGLISH, PHYSICS,  CHEMISTRY (Organic and Inorganic) and BIOLOGY  (Botany and Zoology); after having passed either the  higher Secondary School Examination o Pre-University Examination, or an equivalent Examination;
                                                 OR
The 1st year examination of the 3-year B.Sc degree course with ENGLISH,  PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY (Organic and Zoology) after passing the Higher Secondary or Pre-University Examination.
OR
Any other examination with the required subjects which in scope and
standard(including its courses and  syllabus) is considered by the institute to be equivalent to Pre-medical/Intermediate Science examination of an Indian University.
Minimum
Aggregate  : He/She should have obtained a minimum of SIXTY PERCENT (60%) marks in aggregate in the 4   compulsory subjects of ENGLISH, PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY (Organic and Inorganic) and BIOLOGY (Botany and Zoology).

FROM PRIVATE COLLEGE: MBBS Course (200 Seats)
Candidates who are citizens of India, NRIs, PIOs, OCIs and foreign nationals are eligible to take NEET.
Qualifying Exam: 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology and English as core subject in both Classes 11 and 12 from a recognised board.
Minimum Age Requirement: 17 years as on December 31 of the year of admission
Maximum Age Limit: No upper age limit
Qualifying Marks: UR - 50%, OBC/SC/ST - 40%, PWD - 45% (minimum aggregate marks only for PCB subjects)
Maximum Attempts: No limit on the permitted number of attempts.
Nationality:Indian Nationals, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs & Foreign Nationals


Based on the details provided, you are eligible to pursue a medicine course in India, even though you have failed your HSC. Once you clear your +2 exams and achieve the necessary marks to gain admission through NEET, you can apply. However, to gain admission to AIIMS, you must have an aggregate score of 60%. Unfortunately, you are not eligible for admission to AFMC. Therefore, you can consider other options besides AFMC to pursue your studies in medicine.
ALL THE BEST.

...Read more

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |830 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jan 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 03, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Personal Status Current Age - 35Y Male Profession - Embedded Engineer Disposal Income - 1.6L/Month Monthly Expense - 50K/Month Yearly Onetime Expenses - 3L/Year (School Fee, Premiums, Personal) Annual Disposal Income - 19,20,000 Annual Expenses - 9,00,000 Financial Status (1) Term Insurance - 1Cr (2) Health Insurance (1) Company Insurance - 3L (MySelf, Spouse, 2 Kids, Father and Mother) (2) Personal Insurance - 25L (Star Health Assure Floater Policy - MySelf, Spouse, 2 Kids) (3) Emergency Fund - 5L in Debt Fund (ICICI All Season Bond) Current Asset Allocation: (1) Real Estate - 46% (2) Equity - 20% (3) Gold - 11% (4) Debt - 9% (5) Retirement - 16% Investment Plan: (1) Debt - 25% (2) PPFAS Flexi Cap MF - 20% (3) Axis Mid Cap MF - 17% (4) Quant HealthCare MF - 9% (5) Tata Digital MF - 6% (6) Global Fund - 5% (7) UTI Nifty 50 Index - 10% (8) Stocks - 8% Other Investment (Retirement Plan): SSY - 1.5L/Year PF - 2.5L/Year Investment duration: Next 15Years Can you please guide me in the following questions (1) The Allocation to MF are fine or need to be modified? (2) Can you suggest the allocation to Global Stocks MF? (3) The Global Fund suggestion if any It would be grateful if any other things I need to consider or modify. Thank you in advance!
Ans: Hello;

My feedback is as given below:

1. First your term life cover is not adequate. It should be enhanced to
2-3 Cr.

2. Healthcare coverage for your parents is relatively lower considering that they may be in the higher age band hence higher possibility of medical risks.

3. Emergency fund should be parked in overnight/liquid or arbitrage fund. Never in a dynamic bond fund with Macaulay duration of 3-4 years. Returns are not that important as liquidity and low risk for emergency fund.

4. Considering your age the allocation to equity is quite low. Assuming that you have a conservative risk profile still you should atleast have 40% allocation to equity mutual funds(not direct stocks) and taper it down gradually as you approach retirement age.

I mean actively managed or passive equity mutual funds and not sectoral and thematic funds(shouldn't be more then 10-15% of your equity allocation).

5. You already have exposure to global stocks through your flexicap fund. In addition to that you have 5% allocation to global stocks MF which maybe enhanced to 8%.

To maintain neutrality of this forum we are duty bound to avoid indicating fund house preference or recommendation.

6. Allocation to Gold should be max 10% of the portfolio.

7. Consider NPS for retirement planning. It's an E-E-E type of investment with very less withdrawals allowed before 60.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

...Read more

Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  |118 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 04, 2025

Relationship
Dear Doctor, Greetings of the day. I am a married man with two daughters. Ours was an intercaste love marriage, and I was fully aware of my wife’s past before we got married. At that time, I had no issues with her past as I believed she had moved on, and I was completely fine with it. We got married in 2008, and due to my job profile, we had to live away from our hometown. My wife is a highly educated woman, and she sacrificed her career to focus on raising our children. Once our younger daughter turned 9, we decided it was time for my wife to resume her professional career. She started a naturopathy clinic in our hometown, while I continued working in another city, living the life of a “forced bachelor.” However, after a year of being apart, I started missing my family deeply. I decided to leave my job and take up another role closer to our hometown so that I could spend weekends with my family. Since then, whenever I visit home, I sense a change in my wife’s behavior and body language. Things do not feel the same between us anymore. I have observed that her ex-boyfriend, who lives near her parents’ house, is a factor in this situation. Her ex’s elder sister frequently visits my wife’s clinic, and my wife also visits her parents’ house regularly, where he is around. I feel uneasy about this because her ex is known to be a drunkard and a manipulative man who can play with her mind. On one occasion, during a family function, he approached me, seemingly about to start a conversation, but my wife made a subtle signal, and he immediately stopped. He was drunk at the time, and that incident has been stuck in my mind ever since. I am unsure how to deal with this situation or what steps to take moving forward. It is affecting my peace of mind, and I feel lost. Kindly guide me on how to approach this matter.
Ans: It’s understandable that you’re feeling uneasy and concerned about the situation. Relationships, especially long-term ones, evolve over time, and external factors can create complex dynamics. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you navigate this:

1. Clarify Your Feelings
Reflect on what exactly is making you uncomfortable—your wife’s behavior, her interactions with her ex, or the idea that her past might be resurfacing.
Separate your assumptions from facts. It’s important to ensure your concerns are grounded in reality and not solely based on fears.
2. Open Communication with Your Wife
Choose a calm and private moment to talk to your wife. Share your feelings without accusations or judgment.
Use “I” statements, such as:
“I’ve been feeling uneasy about some things and would like to discuss them with you. I value our relationship and want to ensure we’re on the same page.”
Be honest but gentle. Aim to understand her perspective and ensure she feels safe sharing her thoughts with you.
3. Understand Her Perspective
Ask her how she’s feeling about the current state of your relationship, her work-life balance, and your family dynamics.
Inquire about her interactions with her ex’s family and clarify if they are merely coincidental or something more deliberate.
4. Establish Boundaries
If the situation with her ex is a source of discomfort for you, it’s okay to express that and set boundaries together.
For example: “I respect your independence, but I feel uneasy about the proximity to your ex. Can we find a way to address this together?”
5. Revisit the Relationship Foundation
Long-distance and career changes can create emotional gaps. Reconnect with your wife by revisiting shared goals, dreams, and moments that brought you together.
Plan activities together, even small ones, that allow you to strengthen your bond.
6. Self-Care
Feeling lost and restless can impact your mental and emotional health. Engage in activities that help you stay grounded, such as exercise, meditation, or journaling.
Seek support from trusted friends or a counselor if you need a safe space to process your feelings.
7. Consider Professional Guidance
If the situation continues to strain your relationship, couples counseling can be a constructive way to work through concerns with an objective third party.
8. Evaluate the Bigger Picture
Look at your wife’s overall behavior and commitment to the family. If her actions consistently demonstrate care and loyalty, the presence of her ex might be less significant than it feels.
Conversely, if her behavior indicates distance or secrecy, it may warrant deeper introspection and conversation.
Key Principles
Trust but Verify: While trust is essential, it’s okay to seek clarity when something feels off.
Non-Confrontational Approach: Avoid making accusations or assumptions. Focus on fostering mutual understanding.
Focus on Solutions: Work together to create a relationship environment where both of you feel secure and valued.
This is a sensitive issue, but with open communication and a collaborative approach, you can work toward restoring peace of mind and a deeper connection in your marriage.

...Read more

Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  |118 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 28, 2024Hindi
Relationship
Hi expert I’m a 48-year-old man from Bangalore. I am watching your videos on instagram and need your advice. Recently, I joined Instagram in search of answers to some personal, painful questions that I’ve never had the courage to discuss with anyone before. I’ve been married since 2007, and we have a 15-year-old son. Despite being in a long-term marriage, I often feel uncertain about my relationship with my wife and my family. At times, I wonder if my wife—or anyone in my family—truly loves or even cares for me. This feeling of being emotionally disconnected has led me to occasionally think that I might be better off alone, or even running away from everything. One issue I struggle with is communication with my wife. Whenever I try to discuss personal or family matters with her, she gets upset, and her anger usually leads to silence between us until I apologize. It feels like I can’t express myself openly without the fear of making things worse. This dynamic has created a barrier, and I’ve found it difficult to have meaningful conversations or resolve issues. Another complication is the lack of harmony between my wife and my family. From the early days of our marriage, my family never really accepted her, and there has always been tension. They didn’t make an effort to treat her well, and over time, it became clear that they don’t get along. As a result, there’s a deep sense of isolation for her in my family, and that only adds to the strain in our relationship. At home, I also often feel like I fail to meet expectations. My wife gets angry when things aren’t done the way she wants them to be, and I sometimes find myself unsure of how to navigate these situations. I feel like I’m constantly walking on eggshells, trying to avoid conflict, but in doing so, I’m unsure whether I’m making the right choices or whether I’m neglecting my own needs in the process. I’m reaching out for advice because I’m at a point where I feel lost. I’m not sure how to repair the relationships in my life or how to stop feeling so isolated. Any guidance or perspective you can offer would be greatly appreciated.
Ans: Thank you for sharing your story so openly and honestly. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate such complex emotions and relationships, especially when you feel uncertain about where to turn for guidance. Let’s take this step-by-step to explore ways to help you find clarity and strengthen your relationships.

1. Instagram as a Starting Point, Not the Solution
It’s important to acknowledge that while platforms like Instagram can offer inspiration and helpful insights, they’re not designed for addressing deeply personal issues. Content on social media is often generalized and may lack the depth, context, and nuance needed to resolve complex challenges. What you’re experiencing deserves more personalized attention and a safe, professional space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and relationship dynamics in depth. Seeking professional help—such as therapy or counseling—will allow you to find tailored solutions that fit your unique circumstances.

2. Understanding Emotional Disconnect
Feeling emotionally disconnected in your marriage and questioning whether your family loves or cares for you can be incredibly painful. These feelings might not reflect the absence of love but rather difficulties in how love and care are communicated within your relationships. Emotional disconnection often stems from patterns of interaction or unmet emotional needs, which can build over time. Recognizing this can help you shift your focus from self-doubt to exploring ways to improve connection and communication with your loved ones.

3. Improving Communication with Your Wife
A recurring theme in your situation is the challenge of communication with your wife. Here are a few strategies to address this:

Choose Neutral Moments: Initiate conversations at a time when both of you are calm and free from immediate stress. Avoid starting sensitive discussions during or right after a conflict.
Express Feelings, Not Faults: Frame your concerns using “I” statements to share your feelings without sounding accusatory. For example, instead of saying, “You always get upset when I talk,” you could say, “I feel hesitant to share my thoughts because I worry about upsetting you.”
Listen Actively: Show her that her perspective matters by listening without interrupting. Reflect on what she says to ensure she feels heard.
Consider Structured Check-Ins: Set aside regular time (e.g., once a week) to discuss family matters or emotions. This can create a safe space for open dialogue without the pressure of immediate resolution.
4. Addressing Family Tensions
The tension between your wife and your family has likely added significant strain to your marriage. While this dynamic is challenging, there are steps you can take to navigate it:

Acknowledge Your Wife’s Experience: Validate her feelings about her struggles with your family. Let her know that you understand how difficult it’s been for her to feel isolated.
Set Boundaries with Your Family: It’s important to prioritize your marriage while still maintaining a respectful relationship with your family. This might involve gently but firmly communicating to your family that you expect them to treat your wife with respect, even if they don’t share a close bond.
Avoid Forcing Reconciliation: Instead of trying to make your wife and family “get along,” focus on small steps to reduce tension. Highlight shared interests or goals, but respect their individual boundaries.
5. Managing Expectations and Conflicts at Home
It’s clear that you feel under pressure to meet expectations and avoid conflict at home. To navigate this:

Clarify Expectations: Have an open conversation with your wife about her specific expectations and how you can meet them without compromising your own needs. Share your expectations as well, so you both have a clearer understanding of each other’s perspectives.
Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial. Whether through exercise, hobbies, or relaxation techniques, find activities that help you manage stress and maintain emotional balance.
Respond, Don’t React: When conflicts arise, take a moment to pause and reflect before responding. This can help you approach the situation with calmness and clarity.
6. Seeking Professional Help
Given the complexity of your situation, seeking professional guidance could be immensely beneficial. Options include:

Marriage Counseling: A therapist can provide a neutral space where both you and your wife can work through communication challenges and emotional disconnection. This can help you rebuild trust and strengthen your bond.
Individual Therapy: If you’re feeling isolated or questioning your self-worth, therapy can help you explore these feelings, gain clarity, and develop strategies for personal growth and resilience.
Family Counseling: If you want to address the broader family dynamics, family therapy can help facilitate understanding and harmony among all parties involved.
7. Reflecting on Your Needs
Finally, take time to reflect on your own emotional needs. What do you truly want from your relationships? What makes you feel valued and loved? Communicating these needs to your wife and family can help them understand how to support you better.

A Final Thought
You’ve taken a courageous first step by acknowledging your struggles and seeking advice. While the path ahead may feel uncertain, remember that meaningful change is possible with consistent effort, patience, and the right support. You don’t have to go through this alone, and seeking professional help can provide the tools you need to rebuild connection and find peace in your relationships.

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x