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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 23, 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
Joydeep Question by Joydeep on May 23, 2024Hindi
Money

Sir, I am 36. My monthly income is 80k. I have a daughter and my wife is housewife. I have investment with market value of Rs. 13 lakhs. Total 4 nos mutual fund total SIP Rs. 7000 p. m. with current value of Rs. 6 lakhs. My office provides EPF scheme. Where I invest 16% of Basic+DA. Present corpus is around 19 lakhs. Except a personal loan of Rs. 2.50 lakhs, presently I dont have any other loans. I have taken a comprehensive Health insurance policy value of Rs. 5 lakhs plus my office provides medical benefits. I have taken a term policy cover of Rs. 1 cr. Now, i want to have i) Education of my daughter now she is 7m old And ii) Steady cashflow for present and post retirement. I suppose the highest cost of education of IIT will be around 45 lakhs ii) Retirement corpus of Rs. 5 crores. There is no desire to buy car or house in future. Will I be able to cover up my family financially secure by present investment?

Ans: Detailed Financial Review and Strategy for Achieving Goals
Current Financial Status
Monthly Income: Rs. 80,000
Mutual Fund SIPs: Rs. 7,000 per month
Current Value of Mutual Funds: Rs. 6 lakhs
EPF Corpus: Rs. 19 lakhs
Health Insurance: Coverage of Rs. 5 lakhs
Term Insurance: Coverage of Rs. 1 crore
Personal Loan: Rs. 2.5 lakhs
Financial Goals
Daughter’s Education: Rs. 45 lakhs needed in 17 years
Retirement Corpus: Rs. 5 crores needed in 24 years
Detailed Investment and Savings Strategy
Mutual Funds
Current SIPs: Rs. 7,000 per month
Recommendation: Continue with actively managed mutual funds to potentially achieve higher returns. Aim for funds with a strong track record and capable fund managers.
Increase SIPs Gradually: As your income grows, consider increasing your SIPs by at least 10-15% annually to boost your investment corpus.
Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
Current Corpus: Rs. 19 lakhs
EPF Growth: EPF is a low-risk investment with steady growth. Continue contributing regularly as it provides a stable retirement fund base.
Insurance
Term Insurance: The Rs. 1 crore cover is sufficient to secure your family’s future in case of an unforeseen event. Ensure to review and adjust this coverage periodically to match inflation and any changes in financial responsibilities.
Health Insurance: The Rs. 5 lakhs coverage, combined with employer benefits, appears adequate. However, with rising healthcare costs, consider increasing your health insurance cover or adding a top-up plan.
Daughter’s Education Planning
Time Horizon: 17 years
Estimated Cost: Rs. 45 lakhs
Investment Strategy:
Equity Mutual Funds: Start a dedicated SIP in equity mutual funds. Given the long investment horizon, equity funds offer the best potential for high returns.
Target SIP Amount: To accumulate Rs. 45 lakhs in 17 years, assuming an average annual return of 12%, you need to invest approximately Rs. 8,000-10,000 per month.
Retirement Planning
Time Horizon: 24 years
Target Corpus: Rs. 5 crores
Investment Strategy:
Additional SIPs: Besides your existing SIPs and EPF contributions, start additional SIPs in diversified equity mutual funds.
Target SIP Amount: To accumulate Rs. 5 crores in 24 years, assuming an average annual return of 12%, you need to invest approximately Rs. 15,000-20,000 per month. This figure should be periodically reviewed and adjusted based on actual investment performance and any changes in retirement goals.
Debt Management
Current Debt: Rs. 2.5 lakhs personal loan
Strategy: Prioritize paying off this personal loan to free up cash flow for further investments. Consider allocating a portion of your monthly savings towards this debt to clear it as soon as possible.
Ensuring Steady Cash Flow Post-Retirement
Balanced/Hybrid Funds: Invest in balanced or hybrid funds as you approach retirement. These funds offer a mix of equity and debt, providing both growth and stability. They are ideal for generating a steady income post-retirement.
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Consider setting up an SWP in mutual funds to ensure a regular income stream during retirement. This helps in managing monthly expenses without compromising on the principal investment significantly.
Continuous Review and Adjustment
Annual Review: Regularly review your financial plan and investment portfolio at least once a year. Adjust your investments based on market performance, changes in financial goals, or life events.
Professional Guidance: Consider working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to stay on track and make informed decisions. A CFP can provide personalized advice and help in navigating complex financial markets.
Conclusion
You are already on the right path with a disciplined approach to savings and investments. By gradually increasing your SIPs, focusing on equity funds for long-term goals, and efficiently managing debt, you can comfortably achieve your financial objectives. Regular reviews and adjustments, along with professional advice, will further ensure that you stay on track to secure your family’s future and your retirement.

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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Dear Sir, I am 44 yrs old with wife and 2 kids of age 9&11.I have been investing my money into the following sectors over the last few years back. 1.LIC and SBI money back policies of 8.5L and will be mature in 2034. 2.Life cover for self of 50L has to pay till 2047 annually of 20K. 3.Max life ULIP plan SA 6L mature in 2031. 4.Family floater Health I surance of 5L 4.HDFC life click 2I combo plan invest of 9L 5.SSA till date for both children 1L each 5.SIP of 20K since last 4.5yrs monthly 6.SIP lumpsum of 1L invested in Axis medium cap fund invested 4yrs back My question is to secure my child education and retirement life after 55 yrs , corpus should be 2 Crore what else I have to do
Ans: It's commendable that you've been diligently planning for your family's future. Your commitment to securing your children's education and ensuring a comfortable retirement is truly admirable.

Considering your current investments, it's essential to evaluate if they align with your long-term goals. While your existing plans offer some protection and potential growth, diversifying your portfolio could provide added stability and growth potential. Have you explored avenues beyond traditional insurance policies and mutual funds?

Certified Financial Planners can offer personalized strategies tailored to your aspirations and risk tolerance. They can suggest options that balance growth potential with risk mitigation, guiding you towards achieving your desired corpus. Have you considered consulting one to fine-tune your financial roadmap?

Remember, the journey to financial security is not just about numbers—it's about ensuring peace of mind and enabling your loved ones to pursue their dreams. By proactively seeking guidance and exploring diverse investment avenues, you're laying a robust foundation for a fulfilling future. Keep nurturing your financial garden, and the seeds you sow today will bloom into a prosperous tomorrow.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 08, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, i am 55, earning around 14L PM , am the single earner in my family. I have a daughter who is 14 year and doing her higher Secondary. I hold the following assets MF- 1.7 cr Shares - 1.6cr Two properties worth - 1.6 cr + land worth - 35 L in cr mkt value. Getting a rental income of 25K from one property and the other one 20K which i give to my monther for her exp ( she lives with me only) still i give her Insurance in HDFC Life which will give a guaranteed return of 27 L when my daughter gets into graduation. + life cover of 1.25 cr which am servicing. + gold and few liquid assets worth 15L . With monthly expenses of around 75K hardly saving much - managing some 20K pm in MF . how to plan for my child studies and a cushion as retirement corpus. As am working in a pvt co, don't see any retirement age as of now.
Ans: Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
You have a robust portfolio with diversified assets. Let's look at your current holdings:

Mutual Funds: Rs 1.7 crore
Shares: Rs 1.6 crore
Properties: Rs 1.6 crore
Land: Rs 35 lakh
Rental Income: Rs 45,000 per month (Rs 25,000 and Rs 20,000)
Guaranteed Return from Insurance: Rs 27 lakh
Life Cover: Rs 1.25 crore
Gold and Liquid Assets: Rs 15 lakh
Monthly Expenses: Rs 75,000
Monthly Savings: Rs 20,000 in Mutual Funds
Planning for Your Child’s Education
Your daughter is 14 years old, and higher education expenses are approaching. Here's a structured plan:

Guaranteed Insurance Return: The Rs 27 lakh guaranteed return will be a significant help when she starts her graduation. This ensures you have a secured fund for her education.

Mutual Funds and Shares: Continue to monitor and adjust your investments in mutual funds and shares to ensure they align with her education timeline. You can consider a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) from mutual funds when required.

Building a Retirement Corpus
To ensure a comfortable retirement, let's outline your strategy:

Rental Income: Continue to utilize the Rs 45,000 monthly rental income. Consider renting both properties if selling is not a viable option. The rental income can supplement your monthly expenses post-retirement.

Mutual Funds and Shares: With a total of Rs 3.3 crore in mutual funds and shares, ensure a balanced allocation between equity and debt. As you near retirement, gradually increase the proportion of debt to reduce risk.

Monthly Savings: Increase your monthly savings if possible. If you can increase your investment in mutual funds from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 per month, it will significantly boost your retirement corpus.

Liquid Assets and Gold: Keep a portion of your assets liquid for emergencies. You can also leverage gold if needed during retirement.

Insurance and Risk Management
Your current life cover of Rs 1.25 crore is substantial, but review your insurance needs periodically to ensure it remains adequate. Health insurance is also crucial, especially as you age.

Investment Strategy
Mutual Funds: Continue investing in diversified mutual funds. Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to evaluate the performance of your current funds and explore better-performing options.

Equity Investments: Stay invested in high-quality stocks. Periodically review your portfolio to ensure it is well-diversified and aligned with your risk tolerance.

Key Recommendations
Increase Savings: Aim to save and invest more than Rs 20,000 monthly if possible. This will help you reach your retirement goals faster.

Rental Income: Consider renting out both properties if feasible. This can provide a stable income stream during retirement.

Education Fund: Utilize the guaranteed return from your insurance policy for your daughter's education expenses.

Balanced Portfolio: Gradually shift from equity to debt as you approach retirement to reduce risk.

Final Insights
Your financial foundation is strong. With careful planning and adjustments, you can achieve your retirement goals and provide for your daughter's education. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 14, 2024

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Hello, I'm a 46 year old , unable to work anymore, I have no loans, own house,wife is the earning member. My investments are : Running investments: Pension Plan with fund value of 42 lakhs(current fund value) till 2037, Equity Mutual fund with fund value of 12 lakhs( Current fund value). Yearly investment emi of 1.20 lakh Monthly expenditure of 25 k Monthly rental income of 8k NO PPF Bank Balance of 26 lakh. Want to invest 10 -15 lakh to earn a sizeable corpus ( say 1 cr) in next 18 years for my child when he will become an adult, in addition to a 50 k monthly income in next 2-3 years Can you kindly guide me as to what investments I should be doing to achieve this target
Ans: You have provided valuable details about your financial situation. Let’s analyse your current standing and future goals.

Age: 46 years old
Running Investments:
Pension Plan with a current fund value of Rs 42 lakhs (maturing in 2037).
Equity Mutual Fund with a current fund value of Rs 12 lakhs.
Income & Expenditure:
Monthly rental income of Rs 8,000.
Monthly expenditure of Rs 25,000.
Yearly EMI of Rs 1.2 lakh for ongoing investments.
Savings: Bank balance of Rs 26 lakhs.
Investment Goals:
You want to invest Rs 10-15 lakh to build a corpus of Rs 1 crore in 18 years for your child.
You also need a monthly income of Rs 50,000 in the next 2-3 years.
Given these goals, let’s discuss how you can achieve them.

Income Generation for Monthly Needs (Rs 50,000)
To achieve a monthly income of Rs 50,000 in the next 2-3 years, we need to explore investment options that can generate consistent returns.

Rental Income: You already have Rs 8,000 coming in monthly. This helps reduce your income requirement.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP):

A Systematic Withdrawal Plan from your mutual funds could be useful.
You can park part of your Rs 26 lakh bank balance into a debt-oriented hybrid mutual fund.
These funds provide stability with moderate returns.
You can withdraw monthly amounts through SWP to meet your requirement.
Based on the fund's performance, you can plan to withdraw around Rs 42,000 per month to reach your target of Rs 50,000 (including Rs 8,000 from rent).
This option allows you to use your capital effectively while keeping it invested for moderate growth.

Fixed Income Options:

You may also consider some amount in fixed deposits or high-interest-bearing savings instruments.
However, they are taxed as per your income tax slab, so this may reduce post-tax returns.
Combining these with SWP ensures liquidity and some level of fixed returns.
This way, your immediate income needs can be met, keeping your capital intact.

Investment Plan for Building Rs 1 Crore for Child's Future
You aim to build Rs 1 crore in 18 years for your child. The best way to achieve this is through equity-based investments, as they tend to offer the highest long-term growth.

Equity Mutual Funds:

For long-term goals like 18 years, equity mutual funds are the most suitable.
Your existing equity mutual funds of Rs 12 lakh can continue to grow.
You can also invest Rs 10-15 lakh from your bank balance into diversified equity funds.
Actively managed equity mutual funds generally perform better over a long period compared to passive index funds, which often lack flexibility in changing market conditions.
It’s crucial to focus on mid-cap and small-cap funds as they have higher growth potential over an 18-year period.
Regular vs Direct Funds:

You might have heard about direct mutual funds, which have lower fees.
However, direct plans require deep market understanding and regular monitoring.
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who works with an MFD can help you manage your portfolio professionally, ensuring that your investments are regularly rebalanced to match market changes.
Regular plans, managed by CFPs, provide professional guidance, making them a better choice for individuals who do not want the stress of tracking every detail.
SIP for Consistent Growth:

You can start a SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) of Rs 50,000 monthly.
This amount will steadily build wealth over 18 years.
By investing Rs 50,000 a month in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, you stand a good chance of achieving your target of Rs 1 crore.
A professional MFD working with a CFP can help you select funds based on your risk profile and growth expectations.
Review of Existing Pension Plan
Your pension plan with a current fund value of Rs 42 lakhs is a significant part of your retirement portfolio.

Performance Review:
It is crucial to review the performance of this pension plan periodically.
Ensure that it continues to give reasonable returns, as you have 13 more years until it matures.
Often, these plans have high charges and lower returns compared to equity mutual funds. You should evaluate if it makes sense to continue with this investment or switch to something more productive.
If the returns are lower than expected, you may want to consider redirecting future premiums into better-performing mutual funds.
Tax Implications on Your Investments
Understanding tax liabilities is essential for maximising your returns.

Capital Gains Tax on Mutual Funds:

For equity mutual funds, LTCG (Long-Term Capital Gains) above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) on equity mutual funds are taxed at 20%.
For debt mutual funds, LTCG and STCG are taxed according to your income tax slab.
You should consult with your CFP to ensure that your withdrawals and investments are done in the most tax-efficient manner.
Tax on Rental Income:

The Rs 8,000 monthly rental income is also taxable.
Ensure you factor this into your annual tax planning.
By optimising tax strategies, you can maximise your returns while keeping your liabilities low.

Contingency and Emergency Fund
While investing for long-term goals, don’t overlook short-term financial safety.

Emergency Fund:
Out of your Rs 26 lakh bank balance, set aside at least Rs 4-5 lakh as an emergency fund.
This will help you manage any unforeseen expenses without disturbing your investments.
Keep this amount in a liquid or short-term debt fund for easy access.
Health Insurance:
Since your wife is the sole earning member now, ensure that you have adequate health insurance coverage.
This will help safeguard your family’s finances in case of medical emergencies.
Revisit Your Financial Plan Regularly
It is essential to track your financial journey.

Review Performance:

Regularly review the performance of your mutual funds and pension plans.
Make adjustments based on market conditions and your changing life circumstances.
Stay on Track with Goals:

Ensure that you are consistently investing towards your Rs 1 crore goal.
Keep in touch with your CFP to monitor if you’re on track, and take corrective actions if required.
By actively managing your investments and reviewing your goals, you can ensure financial security for your family.

Finally
Your situation is unique, and your goals are achievable with a disciplined approach.

By combining equity mutual funds, SWPs, and systematic SIPs, you can grow your wealth and generate regular income. Balancing risk and return is essential to meet your child’s future needs and your immediate income requirements.

Keep your financial plan flexible, review it often, and stay committed to your goals.

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

..Read more

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It's great to hear that you have six years of experience in Quality Control (QC). As you know, QC roles are generally onsite, unlike IT roles that can often be done remotely. Given your expertise in QC, you have the option to transition to Quality Assurance (QA), Regulatory Affairs (RA), or the Validation team, but we need to assess the feasibility of such a shift. While it is uncommon, it is possible to find roles in RA, such as preparing and submitting documents, pharmacovigilance, or medical scribing. However, since these are not your areas of expertise, if you choose to pursue them, you may be considered a fresher in those fields.

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Knee Replacement- My doctor has advised me total knee replacement in right knee after examining X ray, as I am suffering from pain in right knee for last 12 months. Whether I have any options to avoid it or better to do to live pain free life after operation. I am worried about side effects, if any. Thanks Ganesh Surana
Ans: Dear Mr. Surana,
Thank you for your query. If your doctor has recommended a total knee replacement, it is likely based on the severity of your condition as indicated by the X-ray and your ongoing pain. However, you may still explore conservative options before deciding on surgery. I suggest consulting a physiotherapist for a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Physiotherapy can help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve joint stability, and potentially reduce pain.
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Dr Shakeeb Ahmed

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Physiotherapist - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

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I AM HAVING UMBLICAL HERNEA PROBLEM.DOCOTR SUGGESTED ME TO BRING DOWN MY WEIGHT AND REDUCE FATTY BELLY BEFORE SURGERY.HE SUGGESTED ME TO WAIT FOR SURGERY TILL MY WEIGHT COMES DOWN FROM 92 KGS TO A REASONABLE LEVEL.PLEASE SUGGST ME WHAT EXERCISES i CAN DO TO ELIMINATE THE FAR BELLY WITHOUT DETERIORATING MY UMBLICAL HERNEA PROBLEM.PLEASE SUGGEST ME EXERCISES TO BRING DOWN MY BELLY. THANKS AND REGARDS. NVRSRINIVAS
Ans: Dear Mr. Srinivas,

Thank you for your query. Weight reduction is a gradual process that requires consistent effort and a balanced approach. It is advisable to consult a physiotherapist and a nutritionist to guide you through this journey. Focus on a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet to support weight loss while maintaining muscle mass. Ensure your meals are nutritious and create a calorie deficit.

For exercise, start with low-impact aerobic activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming, as these can burn calories without putting pressure on your hernia. Incorporate gentle core-strengthening exercises like pelvic tilts and side planks to build core stability without straining the affected area. If suitable, include short bursts of high-intensity workouts or moderate-intensity, long-duration activities such as brisk walking or light jogging to enhance endurance and fat loss. Additionally, light resistance training can help maintain muscle mass, but avoid exercises that strain your abdominal muscles or involve heavy lifting.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 22, 2024Hindi
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I have lost money around 8 lakhs in gambling now i want to restart my life fresh i need to settle my debts and loan with bank and NBFCs is it possible to settle money at 70 percent waived off
Ans: Restarting your life after financial setbacks is possible with a disciplined approach. Settling your debts with banks and NBFCs requires a strategic plan, negotiation, and commitment. Here's a 360-degree approach to help you resolve your situation:

Assess Your Current Financial Position
List All Debts: Create a detailed list of all outstanding loans and debts, including principal, interest, and penalties.

Identify Income Sources: Calculate your monthly income and any other sources of funds.

Evaluate Essential Expenses: Identify non-negotiable expenses such as rent, food, utilities, and transport.

Determine Negotiable Debts: Focus on debts with higher interest rates or legal implications.

Negotiating with Lenders
Possibility of Settling at 70% Waiver
Banks and NBFCs Are Open to Negotiation: They prefer recovering some amount rather than declaring a loan as non-performing.

Settlement Terms Vary: Each lender may have unique policies. Some might agree to 70% waiver, but others may not.

Present Your Case Transparently: Show proof of your financial hardship. Explain your inability to pay in full.

Request a One-Time Settlement (OTS): Offer to pay a lump sum of the waived-off amount to close the debt.

Steps to Negotiate Effectively
Reach Out to the Right Department: Contact the collections or recovery department of your lender.

Seek Professional Help: A certified financial planner or debt resolution expert can negotiate on your behalf.

Prepare a Settlement Plan: Propose a realistic amount you can pay. Mention the sources for this payment.

Ask for Written Confirmation: Ensure the lender provides a formal agreement on the waived-off amount.

Negotiate for Reduced Interest and Penalties: Request removal of penalties and reduction of interest rates.

Managing Your Financial Obligations
Repayment Strategy
Prioritise High-Interest Loans: Focus on clearing loans with higher interest rates first.

Consolidate Debts: Consider consolidating multiple loans into one with a lower interest rate.

Use Liquid Assets Wisely: If you have savings or assets, use them to reduce your debt burden.

Building a Fresh Financial Foundation
Avoid Gambling and High-Risk Activities
Adopt Healthy Habits: Seek professional help if gambling is an addiction. Join support groups like Gamblers Anonymous.

Focus on Financial Literacy: Learn to manage your money effectively through courses or books.

Create a Budget and Emergency Fund
Track Income and Expenses: Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor your financial activity.

Save for Emergencies: Set aside 3–6 months of expenses as a safety net.

Restart Investments Gradually
Start with SIPs: Begin investing small amounts in mutual funds. Avoid direct stock trading initially.

Build a Retirement Corpus: Plan for long-term financial security systematically.

Final Insights
Rebuilding your life after a financial setback takes effort but is achievable. Focus on negotiating your debts transparently and settling them systematically. Learn from past mistakes and adopt disciplined financial habits. Restart your journey with renewed confidence and a commitment to avoid risky behaviours. Seek professional guidance when needed to make informed decisions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...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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