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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 04, 2024Hindi
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I am 31 i have started sip in april 2023 my salary is 4.2k pa. I have lic policy premium 1500 invested in nps 500. Loan of emi 6000 for more 1 years. Were should i invest more for retirement. Hdfc small cap 300 Nippon India growth fund 300 quant mid cap 2000 sbi contra fund 1000

Ans: It's great to see that you're proactively planning for your retirement at a young age. Here are some suggestions to enhance your retirement savings:

Increase SIP Contributions: Since you're already investing through SIPs, consider increasing your monthly contributions gradually as your income grows. This will help you accumulate a larger corpus over time.

Diversify Your Portfolio: While SIPs are a good way to invest regularly, consider diversifying your portfolio across different asset classes such as equity, debt, and gold. This can help spread risk and potentially enhance returns.

Maximize Tax-Efficient Investments: Explore tax-saving investment options like Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) for your equity investments and Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) for additional contributions to your EPF/NPS account. These investments offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

Review and Adjust LIC Policy: Evaluate your LIC policy to ensure it aligns with your long-term financial goals and offers competitive returns. If necessary, consider optimizing or redirecting your premiums towards more lucrative investment avenues.

Consider Early Loan Repayment: While it's essential to prioritize retirement savings, if feasible, consider allocating additional funds towards repaying your existing loan EMIs. Reducing debt burden early can free up more disposable income for future investments.

Consult a Financial Planner: Given your unique financial situation and goals, consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who can provide personalized advice and help optimize your investment strategy for retirement planning.

By taking a holistic approach to retirement planning, including increasing SIP contributions, diversifying your portfolio, maximizing tax-efficient investments, reviewing existing policies, and consulting a financial planner, you can strengthen your financial foundation and work towards achieving a comfortable retirement.
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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Omkeshwar

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Head, Rank MF - Answered on Sep 09, 2021

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I am 41 years old and work in a private sector company. I will retire at the age of 58 years. I have been making SIP investments as listed below. My object is long term fund accumulation. In my family I have parents, my wife and two kids (12 and 6 years). Please guide for any further addition in SIPs upto Rs 8K to Rs 10K. Also advise if I should stop any of the SIPs. Mutual Fund - Through monthly SIP SIP Per Month Number of yeas invested 1. SBI Small Cap Fund Regular Growth Rs 2,500 2 2. SBI Focused Equity Fund Direct Growth Rs 1,500 2 3. NIPPON INDIA VALUE FUND -- GROWTH PLAN  Rs 2,000 7 4. NIPPON INDIA LARGE CAP FUND -- GROWTH PLAN  Rs 2,250 4 5. ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund -- Growth Rs 2,000 2 6. HDFC Top 100 Fund -- Growth Rs 2,500 9 7. HDFC TaxSaver -- Growth Rs 2,000 9 8. HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund -- Growth Rs 1,500 5 9. HDFC Flexi Cap Fund Growth (Erstwhile HDFC Equity Fund) Rs 2,000 6 10. Franklin India Smaller Companies Fund -- Growth Rs 2,000 4 11. DSP Mid Cap Fund, Reg -- G Rs 2,000 5 12. DSP Focus Fund, Reg -- G Rs 2,000 2 13. DSP Equity Opportunities, Reg -- G Rs 2,000 2 14. Aditya Birla Sun Life Tax Relief '96 Fund (ELSS U/S 80C of IT ACT) -- Growth, Regular Plan Rs 2,000 4 15. Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund -- Growth, Regular Plan Rs 2,000 1 16. Aditya Birla Sun Life Equity Advantage Fund - Growth, Regular Plan Rs 2,000 4 I have also made one time investment in the funds listed below. Please guide for any switching. I also want to invest an additional Rs 80K to Rs 1 lakh. Please guide. Mutual Fund One Time investment Investment HDFC Low Duration Fund -- Growth Rs 50,245 HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund - Direct Plan -- Growth Option Rs 22,500 HDFC Small Cap Fund -- Regular Plan, Growth Rs 25,000 HDFC Housing Opportunities Fund -- Direct Plan, Growth Option Rs 20,000 Aditya Birla Sun Life Resurgent India Fund Series 6 -- Direct, Growth Rs 20,000 Aditya Birla Sun Life Low Duration Fund -- Regular Plan, Growth (formerly known as Aditya Birla Sun Life Cash Manager) Rs 79,578 Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund -- Direct Plan, Growth Rs 44,000 ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund -- Growth Rs 25,000 ICICI Prudential Value Fund Series 19 -- Direct Plan, Cumulative Rs 20,000 L&T Midcap Fund -- Growth Rs 25,000 SBI Focused Equity Fund Regular -- Growth Rs 25,000
Ans: Your portfolio has too many funds, it's over-diversified.

Lumpsums can be continued.

In SIPs, you may continue with 1, 2, 5, 8 and 11.

 

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 19, 2024

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Hi i am 34 years old. I have started a 4 SIP each of 5000?, HDFC midcap opportunity fund direct growth, HDFC Index nifty fifty, Parag parekh flexi fund and Nippon India Small cap fund. Kindly suggest any changes or need to add more sip. I want to retire in next 12 years
Ans: Congratulations on taking proactive steps towards building your retirement corpus through SIP investments. Let's review your current portfolio and make necessary adjustments to align it with your retirement goal in the next 12 years.

Evaluating Your Current SIP Portfolio
Portfolio Composition
You've initiated SIPs in four funds, focusing on mid-cap, index, flexi-cap, and small-cap categories. This shows a well-diversified approach towards wealth creation.

Risk Profile
Your portfolio reflects a moderate to high-risk appetite, with exposure to mid-cap and small-cap funds known for their volatility.

Assessing the Need for Changes
Mid-Cap Fund
Advantage: Mid-cap funds have the potential for high growth, suitable for long-term wealth creation.
Consideration: Ensure you're comfortable with the higher risk associated with mid-cap stocks.
Index Fund
Advantage: Index funds offer broad market exposure at low costs, ideal for passive investors.
Consideration: While index funds offer stability, they may not outperform actively managed funds in bull markets.
Flexi-Cap Fund
Advantage: Flexi-cap funds provide flexibility to invest across market caps based on prevailing market conditions.
Consideration: Ensure the fund manager's strategy aligns with your investment goals and risk tolerance.
Small-Cap Fund
Advantage: Small-cap funds have the potential for high growth, but they come with higher volatility.
Consideration: Be prepared for fluctuations in returns and market risks associated with small-cap stocks.
Recommendations for Portfolio Optimization
Rebalancing the Portfolio
Consider rebalancing your portfolio to maintain an optimal asset allocation based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.
Assess the current market conditions and performance of individual funds to make informed decisions.
Reviewing Fund Performance
Regularly monitor the performance of your SIP funds and assess their consistency in delivering returns.
Evaluate fund managers' track records, investment strategies, and portfolio compositions to ensure alignment with your goals.
Potential Addition of Debt or Hybrid Funds
Given the aggressive nature of your current portfolio, consider adding debt or hybrid funds to balance risk and provide stability.
Debt funds can provide steady returns with lower volatility, suitable for risk-averse investors approaching retirement.
Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who is also a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) offers several advantages:

Personalized Advice: A CFP can provide tailored investment advice based on your financial goals, risk appetite, and investment horizon.

Portfolio Diversification: A CFP can help you build a diversified investment portfolio aligned with your objectives, spreading risk across various asset classes.

Ongoing Monitoring: With regular reviews and updates, a CFP ensures your investments stay on track to meet your goals.

Conclusion
Your current SIP portfolio demonstrates a proactive approach towards wealth creation for retirement. By reviewing and optimizing your portfolio periodically, you can ensure it remains aligned with your long-term financial goals. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to receive personalized guidance and maximize your investment potential.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025Hindi
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Is laundry franchise business is profitable?
Ans: The laundry business is a profitable venture due to consistent demand, low entry barriers, and a recurring revenue model. Urban areas, in particular, drive growth with their high population of working professionals, students, and families who prefer outsourcing laundry services for convenience.

Profit margins typically range between 20% and 40%, with opportunities to boost earnings through additional services like ironing, dry cleaning, and fabric care. The business offers flexibility in investment and scalability, from self-service laundromats to
full-service operations.

However, challenges such as competition, operational costs, and seasonal demand fluctuations require efficient management. With proper planning, market research, and a focus on customer satisfaction, the laundry business can provide steady income and long-term growth potential.

Things to Consider

1. Research and Location: Target high-demand areas such as residential neighbourhoods, business districts, or near universities.
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6. Marketing and Customer Care: Build a recognizable brand, use digital marketing to reach your audience, and provide excellent customer service with timely and convenient options.

The laundry business can be a sustainable and profitable venture with strategic planning and effective management.

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Pushpa

Pushpa R  |42 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025Hindi
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I’ve been practicing yoga for a while now, but I’ve recently started noticing some discomfort in my lower back, especially after doing forward folds and back bends. I try to listen to my body and not push myself too hard, but sometimes I still feel strain or tightness in my back the next day. I’m especially concerned about preventing any long-term damage, and I’d appreciate some tips on how to protect my back while still getting the benefits of these stretches.
Ans: Discomfort in the lower back during yoga is often due to improper alignment or over-stretching. Here’s how to protect your back while continuing your practice:

Engage Your Core: Always activate your core muscles during forward folds and backbends. A strong core supports your lower back and prevents strain.

Modify Forward Folds: Avoid rounding your lower back. Instead, keep your spine long and bend from your hips, not your waist. You can slightly bend your knees to reduce tension on your lower back.

Gentle Backbends: For backbends, focus on opening your chest rather than over-arching your lower back. Start with smaller poses like Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) and gradually work towards deeper bends like Camel Pose (Ustrasana) with proper guidance.

Use Props: Blocks or cushions can help reduce strain and improve alignment. For example, place a block under your hands during forward folds.

Stretch Your Hamstrings and Hips: Tight hamstrings and hips can pull on your lower back, causing discomfort. Incorporate poses like Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana) and Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana).

It’s crucial to work with a yoga coach who can assess your alignment and suggest modifications tailored to you. This will help you avoid injury and enjoy a safer practice.

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7478 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

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Am currently 50...I dont hv job. .Iam invested in mmt but right now am 15% on my PF....I invested 19lacs on mkt. ...wht shud ido ?
Ans: You have made bold moves in investing Rs. 19 lakhs in the market. Being 15% down on your portfolio is concerning but manageable. Let us evaluate your current position and suggest actionable steps.

Key Concerns
Jobless Situation: Absence of steady income creates financial pressure.

Market Volatility: A 15% loss indicates exposure to high-risk investments.

Emergency Needs: Liquidity might be limited if all funds are in the market.

Long-Term Goals: Planning for retirement is essential at this stage.

Strengths
Investments in Market: Rs. 19 lakhs is a good corpus to build wealth.

Time to Recover: At 50, there is still time for strategic financial planning.

Aggressive Approach: Shows you are willing to take risks, which can be an advantage.

Recommendations
Reassess Portfolio Allocation
Review your investments in mutual funds or stocks.

Shift a portion to balanced or hybrid funds for stability.

Reduce exposure to high-risk segments like small caps or sectoral funds.

Create a Contingency Fund
Set aside Rs. 3-5 lakhs for emergencies.

Use liquid funds or short-term fixed deposits for easy access.

Explore Income Sources
Find part-time or freelance opportunities to ease financial stress.

Rental income, tutoring, or consulting can supplement your needs.

Stop Panic Selling
Do not redeem investments in a downturn.

Hold onto quality assets for market recovery.

Diversify Investments
Avoid putting all money in equities.

Consider fixed income options like Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (when eligible), or debt funds.

Plan for Retirement
Evaluate the gap between your current corpus and retirement needs.

Use Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) later for regular post-retirement income.

Monitor Regularly
Review your portfolio every 6 months.

Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner for rebalancing.

Final Insights
Your situation requires balanced risk-taking and income generation strategies. Preserve capital while focusing on gradual recovery. Discipline and informed decisions will help secure your financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |479 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025Hindi
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i have been married for months and recently found out that my husband is talking secretly with his workmate like 2 months before wedding.i saw all the conversation it seems that both of them are flirting with each other.but then my husband clarify that it was nothing and nothing happened between them but now im literally confuse if i had the right decision of marrying him.And we talk honetly and he told me everything but still i have this doubt esp we will be a long distance again????And he promise he will not talk again with anyone he gave me all his password for all his account and he even buy cctv so that i can monitor him while his away.please help me i dont know what to do i love him dearly and i want to move forward with our future but still have this doubts what if he will do it again????
Ans: The fact that your husband has been open and taken steps to reassure you, like sharing his passwords and even installing CCTV, shows that he's trying to rebuild trust and be transparent. These actions suggest he's serious about addressing your concerns and committed to making you feel secure in the relationship.

That said, rebuilding trust isn't something that happens instantly. It takes time, consistent effort, and ongoing communication. It's important to acknowledge your feelings and give yourself the space to process them. Feeling doubt after something like this is a normal response, but it doesn't have to define your relationship going forward.

It's vital to keep the lines of communication open. Talk openly about your feelings, worries, and needs. This kind of dialogue can help both of you understand each other better and strengthen your bond. You might also find it helpful to discuss and agree on clear boundaries for interactions with others, especially given the long-distance aspect of your relationship. This can help create a sense of security and prevent misunderstandings.

While it's important to acknowledge what happened, try to focus on the present and what you both can do to nurture your relationship moving forward. If you find that your doubts and anxieties are overwhelming, seeking the guidance of a couples' therapist might be beneficial. A therapist can help facilitate deeper conversations and provide strategies to rebuild trust and strengthen your relationship.

It's okay to feel unsure, but also recognize the effort your husband is putting in. Trust takes time to rebuild, but with love, dedication, and mutual effort, you can move forward together. Remember, it's a journey, and it's okay to take things one step at a time.

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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.

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