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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Roshan Question by Roshan on Jun 14, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi sir ,I am 34 years old ,earning 1.15 lack net in hand ,2 lack in EPF and currently 6 k contribution of monthly of EPF, have purchased one land near jewar airport with private builder in 12 lack by my money, and currently 1 lack in mutual fund and planning to invest every month 20 k from now in mutual funds , I have 1.5 lack loan only due to uncertain loss in option trading on 4th election day so I stopped option trading, one LIC policy where I am investing 53k for 16 year and policy will mature in 19th year this is 4th year of premium ,1 lack in PPF which I invested 2 years ago , health insurence of me and my with of 1cr and same for my mother ,I need a proper plan to achive 3 cr in my 45 means in next 10 year

Ans: You have a clear goal of achieving a Rs 3 crore corpus in the next 10 years. This is achievable with a well-structured financial plan. Let’s break down the plan step by step to help you reach your target.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
Income and Savings

You earn Rs 1.15 lakh per month and contribute Rs 6,000 monthly to your EPF. Your savings include Rs 2 lakh in EPF, Rs 1 lakh in mutual funds, Rs 1 lakh in PPF, and an investment in land worth Rs 12 lakh. You also have a LIC policy with an annual premium of Rs 53,000.

Debt and Insurance

You have a loan of Rs 1.5 lakh and health insurance coverage of Rs 1 crore for you, your wife, and your mother. This is a solid foundation to build upon.

Setting Clear Financial Goals
Primary Goal

Achieve a corpus of Rs 3 crore by the age of 45, which is 10 years from now.

Secondary Goals

Ensure adequate funds for emergencies, retirement, and your children’s education.

Optimizing Your Investments
1. Mutual Funds

You plan to invest Rs 20,000 monthly in mutual funds. This is a good strategy. Ensure you choose a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds for diversification.

2. EPF and PPF

Continue your contributions to EPF and PPF. These are safe investments providing steady returns and tax benefits.

3. LIC Policy

Evaluate your LIC policy. Insurance-cum-investment policies often give lower returns compared to mutual funds. Consider surrendering the policy and redirecting the premiums to mutual funds.

Debt Management
1. Repaying Debt

Focus on repaying your Rs 1.5 lakh loan as soon as possible. Debt can hinder your financial growth.

2. Avoiding Future Debt

Avoid speculative trading and high-risk investments. Stick to a disciplined investment strategy.

Creating 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.

Investment Strategies
1. Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Continue with your SIPs in mutual funds. SIPs help in averaging the cost of investment and reducing market volatility risk.

2. Diversification

Diversify your investments across different asset classes. This reduces risk and enhances returns.

3. Review and Rebalance

Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your financial goals and market conditions.

Tax Planning
1. Tax-saving Investments

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

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 Rs 3 crore, plan for your retirement as well. A diversified portfolio can help you 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

Start a dedicated investment plan for your children’s education. SIPs in equity mutual funds can help accumulate a significant corpus over time.

2. Future Expenses

Plan for future expenses like your 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 Rs 3 Crore Goal
1. Consistent Investments

Invest consistently in mutual funds through SIPs. Rs 20,000 monthly for 10 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 achieving a Rs 3 crore corpus in the next 10 years is achievable with a structured and disciplined investment plan. Focus on mutual funds, repay your 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
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  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 29, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello, I am 43 Years old and earning in-hand 2.2+ lac per month, from this year I have started investment in MF SIP(60K/month), NPS(10% basic + 50k/yrs from past 5 yrs), PPF (12500/month from past 5 yrs), Emergency fund 3lac (FD), EPF(20+lac), No EMI(Debt free - hold 2 property), Term Plan (50 lac) + 1.5 CR (Corporates cover)-> have external plan for 1.5 CR more + minimum external medical insurance plan (Currently corporate medical plan of 15 lac available) Equity investment is 0. My monthly expense is around 50k. I have two kids 5 and 10 yrs old - need to plan for education and my retirement(at 60 age). I can invest more 80-90k/month, Risk capacity is high, please suggest. Requirement - Education 2 CR for (1 CR each Kid appx) and for retirement around 5 CR liquid cash.
Ans: It's wonderful that you have a solid financial foundation and a clear vision for your future. Let's review your current investments and suggest strategies to help you achieve your goals for your children's education and your retirement.

Current Financial Situation
Monthly Income and Expenses
In-hand Income: Rs. 2.2+ lakhs per month
Monthly Expenses: Rs. 50,000
Current Investments
Mutual Fund SIP: Rs. 60,000 per month (started this year)
NPS: 10% of basic salary + Rs. 50,000 annually (contributed for the past 5 years)
PPF: Rs. 12,500 per month (contributed for the past 5 years)
Emergency Fund: Rs. 3 lakhs (in Fixed Deposit)
EPF: Rs. 20+ lakhs
Term Plan: Rs. 50 lakhs + Rs. 1.5 crore (corporate cover) + additional Rs. 1.5 crore
Medical Insurance: Corporate plan of Rs. 15 lakhs + minimum external plan
Assets
Two Properties: Debt-free
Financial Goals
Children's Education: Rs. 2 crores (Rs. 1 crore for each child)
Retirement: Rs. 5 crores liquid cash by age 60
Investment Strategy
1. Enhance Equity Exposure
Given your high-risk capacity and long investment horizon, increasing your equity exposure is prudent. Equity investments can offer higher returns compared to other asset classes.

Increase SIP Amount: You can invest an additional Rs. 80,000-90,000 per month. This can be allocated to diversified equity mutual funds, mid-cap funds, and small-cap funds for higher growth potential.
2. Optimize Existing Investments
Mutual Fund SIPs: Continue your existing SIPs. Consider adding funds with a good track record and those that align with your risk appetite.
NPS: This is a good investment for retirement savings due to its tax benefits and long-term growth potential. Ensure your allocation is optimized between equity and debt within NPS.
PPF: Continue your contributions to PPF for tax-free returns and safety. However, PPF has a lower return compared to equities, so balance your investments accordingly.
3. Diversify Investments
Diversification helps manage risk and capture opportunities across different market segments.

Equity Funds: Increase investments in equity mutual funds. Consider large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds for a balanced growth portfolio.
Debt Funds: To balance the portfolio, consider debt mutual funds for stability and predictable returns.
Gold: Small allocation to Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) can act as a hedge against inflation and market volatility.
Education Planning for Children
1. Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for Education
Start dedicated SIPs in equity mutual funds targeted for your children's education. This will help in accumulating the required corpus systematically over time.

2. Child Plans
Consider investing in child-specific mutual funds or ULIPs that offer long-term growth and benefits tied to education milestones.

Retirement Planning
1. Retirement Corpus Calculation
With a target of Rs. 5 crores by age 60, let's ensure your investments align to meet this goal. A mix of equity and debt will provide growth and stability.

2. Retirement-Specific Funds
Consider investing in retirement-focused mutual funds and increasing your NPS contributions. These funds are designed to grow your savings efficiently over the long term.

3. Review and Rebalance Portfolio
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to align with changing market conditions and life stages. This will help in maintaining the desired asset allocation.

Risk Management
1. Adequate Insurance Cover
You already have substantial term insurance and health insurance coverage. Ensure they are sufficient to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

2. Emergency Fund
Maintain or slightly increase your emergency fund to cover 6-12 months of expenses. This provides a safety net for unexpected events.

Consultation with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
1. Personalized Financial Advice
A Certified Financial Planner can offer personalized advice, taking into account your specific financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance.

2. Expert Management
CFPs help in managing your investments effectively, optimizing returns while minimizing risks.

3. Comprehensive Planning
CFPs can assist with comprehensive financial planning, including tax planning, estate planning, and more, ensuring all aspects of your financial health are covered.

Example Investment Plan
Here’s a simplified example of how you might allocate your additional Rs. 80,000-90,000 monthly investment:

Equity Mutual Funds: Rs. 50,000 in diversified large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Debt Mutual Funds: Rs. 20,000 for stability and income generation.
Gold/SGB: Rs. 10,000 for diversification and inflation hedge.
Regular Monitoring and Adjustments
1. Annual Review
Conduct an annual review of your investments and financial goals. Adjust your SIP amounts and asset allocation as needed.

2. Stay Informed
Keep yourself informed about market trends and economic changes. Staying updated will help in making informed investment decisions.

Conclusion
Your current investments and financial strategies are commendable and align well with your goals. By increasing your equity exposure, optimizing existing investments, and consulting a Certified Financial Planner, you can confidently work towards securing your children’s education and a comfortable retirement.

Your disciplined approach and willingness to invest more monthly will significantly enhance your financial security. Continue to monitor and adjust your investments regularly to stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 03, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Mr. Ramalingam Good morning. I'm 47 years old, my wife is at 40 and one daughter studying in 8th std. I have an investement in MF worth of 1.8 cr, ULIP of 20 lakhs, Direct equity of 5 lakhs, 1 cr term insurance, 5 lakhs LIC, 30 lakhs FD. Monthly SIP of 65 k in different MF's, accumulated EPF of 40 lakhs, 10 lakhs super annuatation fund. Invested in plot worth of 1 cr and farm land worth of 1.5 cr. No house and no loan. Would like retire by 55 years with monthly income of 2 lakhs / month from investment. Kindly suggest how I can make my finanical plan. Thanks
Ans: Based on your current financial situation and your goal of retiring at 55 with a monthly income of Rs. 2 lakhs, we need to assess your existing investments, future requirements, and how to bridge any gaps in your retirement plan.

Assets You Already Have
You have built a solid foundation of investments, which is impressive. Let’s break down your current assets:

Mutual Fund portfolio: Rs. 1.8 crore
ULIP: Rs. 20 lakhs
Direct equity: Rs. 5 lakhs
Term Insurance: Rs. 1 crore (sufficient for family protection)
LIC: Rs. 5 lakhs (Could be better allocated elsewhere)
Fixed Deposit: Rs. 30 lakhs
EPF: Rs. 40 lakhs
Superannuation Fund: Rs. 10 lakhs
Real Estate Investments: Plot (Rs. 1 crore) and farmland (Rs. 1.5 crore)
Your current SIP of Rs. 65,000 monthly in mutual funds is a good strategy for wealth accumulation.

Assessing Your Retirement Goal
You wish to have Rs. 2 lakhs per month as retirement income starting at 55. Considering inflation, your future expenses will likely be higher than Rs. 2 lakhs, which we must account for in your financial plan. Assuming you retire at 55 and live till 85, your investments need to generate returns for 30 years.

Evaluating Existing Investments
1. Mutual Funds:
Your current MF portfolio of Rs. 1.8 crore is a major asset. Continue with your SIPs to grow this corpus.
You might consider reviewing your fund allocations to ensure diversification across large-cap, mid-cap, and debt funds for stability and growth. Ensure these are actively managed funds, as they typically perform better than index funds over time.
2. ULIP:
ULIPs often have high charges and offer lower returns compared to mutual funds. It would be wise to surrender this policy and reinvest the Rs. 20 lakhs into mutual funds. This will offer better long-term growth for retirement.
3. Direct Equity:
Direct equity investments, while rewarding, are risky, especially as you approach retirement. It’s advisable to either reduce exposure to individual stocks or move to safer large-cap funds or balanced funds to ensure stability.
4. Fixed Deposit:
Rs. 30 lakhs in FD is a safe bet, but it yields lower returns. Consider using a portion of this for debt mutual funds, which offer slightly better returns and are tax-efficient.
5. LIC:
The Rs. 5 lakhs in LIC should be reconsidered, as insurance-based investment products are typically low-yielding. It’s better to surrender and reinvest this in mutual funds or safer investment options that offer higher returns.
6. Real Estate:
Your plot and farmland, though valuable, are illiquid assets. Real estate cannot generate a regular retirement income unless sold or rented out. Ideally, you should not rely on these for monthly income during retirement. Focus on liquid investments that can generate steady cash flow.
Plan for Retirement Income
Here’s how you can plan to generate Rs. 2 lakhs per month during retirement:

1. Continue Your SIPs:
Your monthly SIP of Rs. 65,000 is a good practice. If you can increase this slightly over the next few years, it will help you build a larger corpus for retirement. Aim to have at least Rs. 5-6 crore in liquid assets by the time you retire.
2. Shift to More Conservative Funds Closer to Retirement:
As you approach retirement, gradually move some of your equity-heavy investments into safer debt funds or balanced funds to preserve capital and reduce market risk.
3. Utilize the EPF and Superannuation Fund:
Your Rs. 40 lakhs in EPF and Rs. 10 lakhs in superannuation fund will continue to grow. Do not withdraw this early; allow it to accumulate till your retirement for a sizeable corpus that can act as a fixed-income generator.
4. Create an Income Stream with SWP:
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from mutual funds will help you generate a monthly income after retirement. This is tax-efficient and can provide you with the Rs. 2 lakhs you desire. You can gradually withdraw from your mutual fund corpus post-retirement, ensuring your capital lasts for 30 years.
5. Review and Increase Insurance:
Your current term insurance of Rs. 1 crore is adequate for now. Ensure you have it in place till your retirement to protect your family in case of any unforeseen events. No need for further investment in insurance-based products like ULIPs or LIC.
Things to Keep in Mind
Inflation Protection: Rs. 2 lakhs per month today will not hold the same value in the future due to inflation. Plan to increase your SIP amounts and grow your corpus to account for this.

Healthcare Costs: As you age, healthcare expenses might rise. Ensure that your health insurance coverage is sufficient, or consider top-up plans to enhance your coverage.

Reassess Regularly: Financial planning is not a one-time activity. Review your portfolio annually to ensure you are on track and make adjustments based on changing market conditions or personal goals.

Final Insights
You are in a strong financial position and well on your way to a comfortable retirement. However, small changes like surrendering low-return policies and enhancing your mutual fund portfolio can make a significant difference. Focus on building a larger liquid corpus by continuing your SIPs and shifting towards income-generating assets as you near retirement.

Stay disciplined with your investments, and you will likely achieve your retirement goal of Rs. 2 lakhs monthly without financial stress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 24, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear sir, My age is 38, Married, no kids, planning to adopt in 2028, before that we have to reach good financial condition, My take home salary 85K 1.Monthly expense - 30K + 5K for my parents expense 2. 1 SIP - UTI Nifty 50 - 5K (as of now total - 1lakh) 3. Planning to Start 2nd SIP from next month ICICI PRU Nifty next 50 - 5K/Month 4. I have 1cr term plan -paying 18500/yr 5.PF balance - 5 Lakh 6. Other savings - Total 13L in post office savings(Timedeposit- 5L, NSC - 2L, kissan vikas pathra - 6L) 7. I m in rent house in working location, But I have own house in native, my parents are there(normal house). 8.i have bought 2 lands in native ( value 20L) 9.i have no health insurance (Company insurance only 2.5L / yr) 10. No loan 11. Goals : planning to buy a car in 2yrs, Need to build good house in Native (budget 1cr) in appx.2035 Need Retirement corpus @ 50 age - 2cr I know basics knowledge of mutual fund only Suggest for good investment plan Thanks
Ans: ? Income and Savings Pattern – Current Situation Review
– Your take-home income is Rs 85,000 monthly.
– Expenses are about Rs 35,000 including parental support.
– You save around Rs 50,000 each month.
– That shows good control and financial awareness.
– You are already investing through SIP.
– That is a great habit for long-term growth.

? SIP and Mutual Fund Choice – Needs Important Correction
– You have invested in Nifty 50 index fund.
– You also plan to start Nifty Next 50 fund.
– Both are index funds. That is not a good strategy.
– Index funds do not beat the market.
– They only copy it with no active management.
– In volatile Indian markets, this is risky.
– Index funds don’t protect during market falls.
– They lack flexibility and decision making.
– Actively managed mutual funds are more reliable.
– Fund managers can adjust during ups and downs.
– This gives better performance in long term.
– Avoid index funds and switch to regular, actively managed funds.
– Always invest through a Certified MFD with CFP credential.
– They review your portfolio and guide at every step.
– Direct plans or DIY investing lack this support.

? Overall Investment Portfolio – Asset Review
– Rs 1 lakh is in equity mutual fund.
– Rs 13 lakhs are in post office savings schemes.
– These include fixed return options like TD, NSC, and KVP.
– Returns are low and taxable.
– Useful for short term or conservative parking only.
– Not suitable for long-term wealth creation.
– These products do not beat inflation.
– They lack growth and liquidity for big goals.
– You should reduce allocation to such products.
– Gradually shift funds to mutual funds.
– Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) from liquid fund.

? PF Balance – Safe But Low Growth
– Rs 5 lakhs in PF is good for retirement base.
– But PF alone can’t create Rs 2 crore corpus.
– Continue contributing regularly.
– But rely more on equity mutual funds.
– Equity will give long-term compounding.
– PF is slow, equity is strong if given time.

? Life Insurance Cover – You Have Done Well
– Rs 1 crore term cover is adequate for now.
– It is separate from investment. That is correct.
– Continue paying premiums on time.
– Increase cover later after adopting a child.

? Health Insurance – Big Gap in Protection
– You have only company cover of Rs 2.5 lakhs.
– That is not enough for family protection.
– Company insurance ends when you quit job.
– Buy a separate family floater of Rs 10–15 lakhs now.
– Include maternity and child coverage later if needed.
– Early purchase keeps premium low.
– Never delay health insurance decision.
– It is part of risk planning, not investment.

? Land and House in Native – Asset Utilisation Thought
– You have two lands worth Rs 20 lakhs.
– One normal house where parents are staying.
– You plan to build a good house there by 2035.
– Budget for that is Rs 1 crore.
– That is a major long-term financial goal.
– Do not consider land as investment.
– Land is illiquid and return is uncertain.
– Focus more on financial investments.
– Prepare for construction with disciplined investing.

? Car Purchase in 2 Years – Short-Term Goal Planning
– You plan to buy a car in 2 years.
– Don’t take car loan for this purpose.
– Instead, start saving Rs 10,000 monthly in RD.
– Choose 24-month RD in safe bank.
– This gives clarity and interest benefit.
– Do not fund car using long-term investments.

? Retirement at 50 – Core Goal with Short Horizon
– You want to retire at age 50.
– That leaves you with 12 years to plan.
– Target corpus is Rs 2 crore.
– That’s a realistic and focused goal.
– You must invest minimum Rs 25,000 monthly in equity.
– Increase this amount when salary increases.
– Mutual fund SIP is the best tool for this goal.
– Choose large-cap and flexi-cap funds.
– Add multi-cap and hybrid funds gradually.
– Don’t mix goals with one fund. Assign each SIP to a goal.

? Steps to Build Investment Plan – Clear Path Forward
– Stop SIP in Nifty index fund.
– Start SIPs in actively managed equity mutual funds.
– Choose 3–4 good diversified equity funds.
– Start goal-based SIPs – one for retirement, one for house.
– Shift part of post office savings to mutual funds.
– Use STP to transfer from liquid fund to equity.
– Avoid putting all funds at once in equity.
– Start RD for car goal from this month.
– Review insurance and take health cover soon.
– Increase SIPs by 10% every year with salary growth.
– Keep investing consistently for 12 years without breaks.
– Stay invested through market cycles.

? Tax Efficiency – Improve Returns With Planning
– Post office schemes are taxable on interest.
– Mutual funds are tax efficient over long term.
– Capital gains tax rules changed from this year.
– For equity MFs:

LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%

STCG taxed at 20%
– For debt MFs, all gains taxed as per slab.
– Still, mutual funds offer better post-tax returns.
– Keep tracking gains every financial year.

? Asset Allocation Strategy – Suggested Mix for You
– Keep 70% in equity mutual funds.
– 20% in safe savings like FD or RD.
– 10% in gold or other non-correlated assets.
– Avoid increasing real estate exposure now.
– Liquidity and returns both matter.

? Mistakes to Avoid – Stay Alert
– Don’t invest in index funds anymore.
– They offer no alpha and no protection.
– Don’t invest in direct mutual funds.
– Direct funds have no monitoring support.
– Choose regular plans via MFD with CFP credential.
– Don’t buy traditional insurance policies.
– Don’t delay health cover. Buy now.
– Don’t stop SIPs for any reason.
– Don’t mix short- and long-term investments.

? Finally
– You have no loan. That gives good financial flexibility.
– You save over 50% of your salary.
– You already understand mutual funds. That’s a good start.
– Switch from index to actively managed funds.
– Start goal-wise SIPs now. Keep them running.
– Allocate RDs and liquid funds for short-term needs.
– Shift excess post office funds slowly to equity.
– Build emergency fund of 4–6 months expenses.
– Take health cover without further delay.
– Set clear targets for each goal.
– Follow plan yearly. Adjust as life changes.
– Wealth will grow slowly, but steadily.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 07, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 28, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 38 years old. I get 2.1 lakh in hand salary every month. I dont have any loans. I have one 4 years daughter. I have 8 lakhs in FD as an emergency fund, 22k in RD(3k every month), 6 lakhs in PPF, 16 lakhs in EPF, 42 lakhs in MF (on going 56k SIP). Out of 42L in mutual fund, 82% I have invested in equity fund 18% in debt fund and 6 lakhs in NPS. I am investing in sukanya samriddhi account for my daughter (every month 10k). 10k every month to PPF account. Monthly 50k goes in household items. 10k in gold. 3k in RD and 1.5k to my daughter's RD. Whatever amount remains will invest in mutual fund. My plan is to save 5 CR in next 10 years and also want to buy new house. Please suggest a plan and also share me the next steps
Ans: You are 38, have a good income, no loans, and are planning ahead. That is a solid base. With your clear goal of Rs. 5 crore in 10 years and a house purchase in between, let us build a practical and 360-degree plan for you.

Understanding Your Present Financial Snapshot
Let us first assess your income, expenses, and investments. This gives a foundation for the plan.

Monthly income: Rs. 2.1 lakh

No existing loans

Emergency fund: Rs. 8 lakh in FD

Monthly RD: Rs. 3,000 (Rs. 22,000 total)

EPF corpus: Rs. 16 lakh

PPF corpus: Rs. 6 lakh

Monthly PPF contribution: Rs. 10,000

Mutual funds: Rs. 42 lakh (56k SIP ongoing)

Equity fund exposure: 82%

Debt fund exposure: 18%

NPS corpus: Rs. 6 lakh

Sukanya Samriddhi contribution: Rs. 10,000/month

Household expenses: Rs. 50,000/month

Gold purchase: Rs. 10,000/month

Daughter’s RD: Rs. 1,500/month

No LIC or ULIP mentioned

This gives a clear view of your disciplined habits.

Key Financial Goals Identified
Let us structure your planning around two major goals.

1. Build Rs. 5 crore corpus in 10 years

2. Buy a house within 10 years

Other goals like daughter’s education and retirement also need to be addressed long-term.

Monthly Cash Flow Analysis
Your income: Rs. 2.1 lakh/month

Expenses and fixed savings:

Household: Rs. 50,000

Gold: Rs. 10,000

PPF: Rs. 10,000

Sukanya: Rs. 10,000

RD: Rs. 3,000

Daughter’s RD: Rs. 1,500

Mutual Fund SIP: Rs. 56,000

That totals to Rs. 1.40 lakh

Remaining: Rs. 70,000 (approx.)

You invest most of this in mutual funds. This is a strong approach.

However, some changes can make your portfolio sharper and more targeted.

Assessment of Existing Asset Allocation
Let us review your current investments and their fitment.

1. Mutual Funds – Rs. 42 lakh, 56k SIP

Exposure of 82% in equity is suitable at your age

You can continue equity exposure for 7–8 more years

Debt fund allocation of 18% is good for balance

SIP of Rs. 56,000 plus surplus amount is powerful

Mutual funds are ideal for wealth creation.

But use regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid direct funds. They offer no review, no advice, no behavioural support.

Regular funds give access to expert support.

Avoid index funds.

Index funds just mirror markets.

They lack flexibility, underperform during volatile cycles, and are unmanaged.

Actively managed mutual funds give better risk-adjusted returns.

You need expert MFDs with CFP support to filter the right funds.

2. NPS – Rs. 6 lakh

Continue the investment

Do not depend only on NPS for retirement

It has a lock-in and partial annuity withdrawal

Use NPS as an add-on to your main portfolio.

3. PPF – Rs. 6 lakh, Rs. 10,000/month

This is a good safe long-term product

Tax-free and sovereign-backed

Helps balance your equity exposure

Continue yearly contributions

PPF gives safety to your long-term money.

Do not over-allocate. 1.5 lakh/year is enough.

4. EPF – Rs. 16 lakh

Your EPF corpus is strong

Continue till retirement

Tax-free interest

Treat this as your retirement reserve

5. Sukanya Samriddhi – Rs. 10,000/month

Excellent for your daughter

Safe, tax-free, and long lock-in

Will help for education or marriage

6. Gold – Rs. 10,000/month

This is acceptable if in digital form

Do not exceed 10% of your total investments

Gold does not generate income

Gold is a good hedge. But over-investment will limit growth.

7. Fixed Deposit – Rs. 8 lakh

Serves as emergency corpus

Maintain this level of 4–6 months’ expenses

FD returns are not inflation-beating. Keep only for emergencies.

Strategy to Reach Rs. 5 Crore in 10 Years
To build Rs. 5 crore in 10 years, you need:

Strong equity exposure

Regular SIP growth

No major withdrawals

Yearly step-up in investments

You are already investing Rs. 56,000 monthly in mutual funds.

Plus surplus amount monthly.

Continue SIPs and increase them every year by 10–15%.

Also, whenever you get bonus or increment, increase investments.

Mutual funds are best for 10+ year goals.

Keep investing in actively managed funds with MFD support.

Do yearly review and rebalance if needed.

Do not stop SIPs during market fall. That is when you build wealth.

Planning for House Purchase
You want to buy a house within 10 years.

This is a large one-time expense.

So, split your investments.

Create a separate mutual fund goal for house

Use hybrid or multi-asset funds for 5–8 year horizon

Allocate a portion of your SIPs towards this goal

You can assign 25–30% of your SIPs to house fund.

This avoids disturbing your Rs. 5 crore goal.

Start a new SIP bucket only for the house.

Do not use PPF, EPF, or Sukanya funds for this.

Retirement Planning Foundation
Though your focus is on Rs. 5 crore and home, retirement needs long-term vision.

Let’s ensure you do not miss it.

EPF, PPF, and NPS form retirement base

Mutual funds add growth to retirement wealth

After age 50, shift to more conservative allocation

You can consider creating a retirement income plan at age 50.

Use SWP from mutual funds and phased withdrawals.

Avoid relying fully on EPF/NPS.

Your Daughter’s Financial Planning
You are already doing the right things.

Sukanya Samriddhi is perfect

PPF and daughter’s RD are good additions

You can later shift RD to mutual funds after maturity.

Equity mutual funds give better returns for 10–15 year horizon.

When she turns 10–12, build a dedicated education corpus.

Use hybrid funds or balanced advantage funds for that.

Do not mix her funds with your personal retirement funds.

Suggestions to Improve Portfolio Further
Let us now give some next steps to boost your portfolio.

1. Step-up SIPs Yearly

Increase by 10–15% every year

Even Rs. 5,000 extra makes a big difference

2. Use Regular Plans, Not Direct

Regular mutual funds through MFD with CFP gives better guidance

Direct plans do not offer human touch or review

3. Avoid Index Funds

Index funds don’t offer protection in falling markets

Active funds aim for alpha, handled by expert managers

4. Yearly Review and Rebalancing

Review once every year

Make small corrections in allocation

Rebalance equity vs. debt

5. Avoid Too Much Physical Gold

Prefer digital gold or gold mutual funds

Limit exposure to 10% or less

6. Create Separate Goal Buckets

Don’t mix house, retirement, education goals

Use separate SIPs for each

Track each goal progress individually

7. Keep Emergency Fund Intact

FD of Rs. 8 lakh is good

Do not use this for investment

Final Insights
You are in a strong financial position today.

Your habits are very disciplined.

You are already on the path to your Rs. 5 crore goal.

Just a few focused steps can improve outcomes.

Keep separate SIPs for home and retirement

Increase SIPs every year

Review investments once a year

Stick to actively managed regular funds

Avoid over-dependence on gold or RDs

Stay invested for long-term wealth creation

Also, create a Will and do nominations in all investments.

Ensure health insurance is in place for family.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner to track all goals.

With patience and planning, your goals are achievable.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10852 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Career
Hello, I’m a student who recently joined the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. I’m aiming for a strong academic foundation and a clear career path. Could you please guide me on the following: How good is this course for research careers or higher studies (IISc, IITs, abroad)? What are the placement prospects after Integrated M.Sc Physics at Amrita? Does the program help in preparing for alternate options like UPSC, CDS/AFCAT, or technical roles? What skills (coding, research projects, certifications) should I start early to make the most of this degree?
Ans: Sree, Program Overview and Academic Foundation: Congratulations on joining the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. This five-year integrated program represents a rigorous pathway designed to equip you with advanced theoretical and experimental physics knowledge combined with cutting-edge scientific computing skills. The curriculum uniquely integrates a minor in Scientific Computing, which adds substantial computational capability to your profile—a critical advantage in today's research and professional landscape. The program incorporates comprehensive coursework spanning classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical physics, advanced laboratory work, and specialized topics in materials physics, optoelectronics, and computational methods, positioning you excellently for both research and professional careers.
Research Career Prospects: IISc, IITs, and Beyond: For research-oriented careers, the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita provides an exceptional foundation. Amrita's curriculum specifically aligns with GATE and UGC-NET examination syllabi, and the institution emphasizes early research engagement. The faculty at Amrita actively publish research in Scopus-indexed journals, with over 60 publications in international venues within the past five years, exposing you to active research environments.
To pursue research at premier institutions like IISc, you would typically follow the PhD pathway. IISc accepts M.Sc graduates through their Integrated PhD programs, and with your Amrita M.Sc, you're eligible to apply. You'll need to qualify the relevant entrance examinations, and your integrated program's emphasis on research fundamentals provides strong preparation. The final year of your Integrated M.Sc is intentionally structured to be nearly free of classroom commitments, enabling engagement with research projects at institutes like IISc, IITs, and National Labs. According to Amrita's data, over 80% of M.Sc Physics students secured internship offers from reputed institutions during academic year 2019-20, directly facilitating research career transitions.
Placement and Direct Employment Opportunities: Amrita University boasts a comprehensive placement ecosystem with strong corporate and government sector connections. According to NIRF placement data for the Amrita Integrated M.Sc program (5-year), the median salary in 2023-24 stood at ?7.2 LPA with approximately 57% placement rate. However, these figures reflect general placement trends; physics graduates often secure higher packages in specialized technical roles. Many graduates join software companies like Infosys (with early offers), Google, and PayPal, where their strong analytical and computational skills command competitive compensation packages ranging from ?8-15 LPA for entry-level positions.
The Department of Corporate and Industrial Relations at Amrita provides intensive three-semester life skills training covering linguistic competence, data interpretation, group discussions, and interview techniques. This structured placement support significantly enhances your employability in both government and private sectors.
Government Sector Opportunities: UPSC, BARC, DRDO, and ISRO: Your M.Sc Physics degree opens multiple avenues for prestigious government employment. UPSC Geophysicist examinations explicitly list M.Sc Physics or Applied Physics as qualifying degrees, enabling you to compete for Group A positions in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The age limit for geophysicist positions is 32 years (with relaxation for reserved categories), and the exam comprises preliminary, main, and interview stages.
BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) actively recruits M.Sc Physics graduates as Scientific Officers and Research Fellows. Recruitment occurs through the BARC Online Test or GATE scores, with positions in nuclear science, radiation protection, and atomic research. BARC Summer Internship programs are available, offering ?5,000-?10,000 monthly stipends with opportunity for future scientist recruitment.
DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) recruits M.Sc Physics graduates through CEPTAM examinations or GATE scores for roles involving defense technology, weapon systems, and laser physics research. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) regularly advertises scientist/engineer positions through competitive recruitment for candidates with strong physics backgrounds, offering opportunities in satellite technology and space science applications.
Other significant employers include the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recruiting as scientific officers, and NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited), offering stable government service with competitive compensation packages exceeding ?8-12 LPA for scientists.
Alternate Career Pathways: UPSC, CDS, and AFCAT: UPSC Civil Services (IFS - Indian Forest Service): M.Sc Physics graduates qualify for UPSC Civil Services examinations, with the forest service offering opportunities for science-based administrative roles with potential to reach senior government positions.
CDS/AFCAT (Armed Forces): While AFCAT meteorology branches specifically require "B.Sc with Maths & Physics with 60% minimum marks," the technical branches (Aeronautical Engineering and Ground Duty Technical roles) require graduation/integrated postgraduation in Engineering/Technology. An M.Sc Physics integrates well with technical qualifications, though you would need engineering background for direct officer entry. However, you remain eligible for specialized technical interviews if applying through alternate defence channels.
UGC-NET Examination: This pathway leads to Assistant Professor positions in central universities and colleges across India. NET-qualified candidates receive scholarships of ?31,000/month for 2-year JRF positions with PhD pursuit, transitioning to Assistant Professor salaries of ?41,000/month in government institutions. This route provides long-term academic career security with research opportunities.
Private Sector Technical Roles
M.Sc Physics graduates are increasingly valued in data science, software engineering, and technical consulting. Companies actively recruit physics graduates for software development, where strong problem-solving and logical reasoning translate to competitive packages of ?10-20 LPA. Specialized domains including quantum computing development, financial modeling, and scientific computing offer premium compensation. Your minor in Scientific Computing makes you particularly attractive to technology companies requiring computational expertise.
International Opportunities and Higher Studies Abroad
An M.Sc from Amrita facilitates admission to PhD programs at international institutions. German universities offer tuition-free or low-fee MSc Physics programs (2 years) with scholarships like DAAD providing €850+ monthly stipends. US universities accept M.Sc graduates directly for PhD positions with full funding (tuition coverage + stipend). These pathways require GRE scores and strong Statement of Purpose articulating research interests. Research collaboration opportunities exist with Max Planck Institute (Germany) and CalTech Summer Research Program (USA), both welcoming Indian M.Sc students.
Essential Skills and Certifications to Develop Immediately: Programming Languages: Start learning Python immediately—it's universally used in research and industry. Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly to data analysis, scientific computing libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), and machine learning fundamentals. MATLAB is equally critical for physics applications, particularly numerical simulations and data visualization. Aim to complete MATLAB certification courses within your first year.
Research Tools: Learn Git/version control, LaTeX for scientific documentation, and data analysis frameworks. These skills are indispensable for publishing research papers and collaborating on projects.
Certifications Worth Pursuing: (1) MATLAB Certification (DIYguru or MathWorks official courses) (2) Python for Data Science (complete certificate programs from platforms like Coursera) (3) Machine Learning Fundamentals (for expanding technical versatility) & (4) Scientific Communication and Technical Writing (develop through departmental workshops)
Strategic Internship Planning: Leverage Amrita's research connections systematically. In your third year, apply to BARC Summer Internship, IISER Internships, TIFR Summer Fellowships, and IIT Internship programs (like IIT Kanpur SURGE). These expose you to frontier research while establishing connections for future PhD or scientist recruitment. Target 2-3 research internships across different specializations to develop versatility.

TO SUM UP, Your Integrated M.Sc Physics degree from Amrita positions you exceptionally well for competitive research careers at IISc/IITs, prestigious government scientist roles at BARC/DRDO/ISRO, and international PhD opportunities. The program's scientific computing emphasis differentiates you in the job market. Immediate priorities: (1) Master Python and MATLAB within the first two years; (2) Engage in research projects starting year 2-3; (3) Target internships at premiere research institutions; (4) Prepare GATE while completing your degree for maximum flexibility in recruitment; (5) Consider UGC-NET for long-term academic stability. Your career trajectory will ultimately depend on developing strong research fundamentals, demonstrating consistent excellence in specialization areas, and strategically selecting internship and research opportunities. The rigorous Amrita program combined with disciplined skill development positions you for exceptional career success across multiple sectors. Choose the most suitable option for you out of the various options available mentioned above. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.
Asked on - Dec 07, 2025 | Answered on Dec 07, 2025
Thankyou
Ans: Welcome Sree.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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.

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