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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8125 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 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 16, 2024Hindi
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I am 38 years now. I am earning 1.5 lacs PM. I have around 1.12 crore as MFs, FD, SCSS,EPF, PPF, LIC, SGB and Lent to local village people at 12% roi. Getting Passive income as 8 lacs PA from all above investment. I have physical gold of 15 lacs. I purchase a land of 15 lacs last year. And my father is a pensioner getting 25k PM. Getting 1lacs PA from paddy land and Paddy land value is 50 lacs now. I will never sell this paddy land. My monthly expenses is 50k. I have a personal loan with 9 lacs outstanding. Paying emi 52k PM. I have a daughter of 6 year and planning for one more kid. I am staying at my own native house with parents. I am thinking to retire at 40. Any suggestions?

Ans: Understanding Your Financial Position
First, congratulations on your impressive financial management and planning. You have diversified your investments well across various asset classes. With a good mix of MFs, FD, SCSS, EPF, PPF, LIC, SGB, physical gold, and real estate, you are on a solid financial footing.

Evaluating Your Income and Expenses
Current Income and Passive Earnings
Active Income: Your current salary is ?1.5 lakhs per month.
Passive Income: You earn ?8 lakhs annually from your investments. This shows a well-thought-out strategy for generating passive income.
Monthly Expenses
Monthly Expenses: Your monthly expenses are ?50,000.
Loan EMI: You have an EMI of ?52,000 for a personal loan with an outstanding amount of ?9 lakhs.
Retirement Planning at 40
Financial Independence
Target Age: You plan to retire at 40, which is two years from now.
Passive Income Needs: Your monthly expenses will continue, so you need sufficient passive income to cover these.
Assessing Your Assets
Investments: Your current investments total ?1.12 crore.
Gold and Real Estate: You have ?15 lakhs in physical gold and purchased land worth ?15 lakhs.
Ensuring Sustainable Passive Income
Investment Strategy
Maximize Passive Income: Ensure your investments continue to yield at least the current passive income of ?8 lakhs per annum. This should ideally increase to cover any future inflation and additional expenses.
Diversification: Continue to diversify your investments to manage risks better. Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice.
Debt Management
Loan Repayment: Prioritize paying off your personal loan to reduce your monthly financial obligations. This will free up more of your income for investments or savings.
Emergency Fund: Ensure you maintain an emergency fund equivalent to at least six months of expenses. This provides a safety net for unexpected situations.
Planning for Children's Education
Education Fund
Investment for Education: Start a dedicated investment plan for your daughter's education and future child's education. Education costs will rise, so planning now is crucial.
Education Savings Schemes: Consider investing in child education plans that offer tax benefits and good returns. Mutual funds tailored for long-term growth can be a good option.
Enhancing Retirement Security
Long-Term Investments
Retirement Corpus: Ensure your retirement corpus is sufficient to sustain your lifestyle. You might need to increase your investments in equity funds for long-term growth.
Regular Reviews: Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your retirement goals and adjust as needed.
Passive Income Strategy
Sustainable Income: Aim for a mix of investments that provide steady passive income. This could include dividend-paying stocks, rental income (if considering in the future), and interest from bonds.
Cost of Living: Account for potential increases in living costs due to inflation and healthcare expenses, especially with aging parents and growing children.
Final Thoughts
Balancing Current and Future Needs
Short-Term vs Long-Term: Balance your current financial needs with future goals. Avoid making impulsive financial decisions that could jeopardize long-term security.
Professional Advice: Regularly consult with a CFP to keep your financial plan on track. Their expertise will help you navigate changes in financial markets and personal circumstances.
Appreciating Your Efforts
Commendable Planning: Your proactive approach to managing your finances is commendable. Few people have such a detailed and diversified portfolio.
Family Security: Your efforts ensure financial security for your family, which is a significant achievement.
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  |8125 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hi sir , I'm 38 year software engineer ,married but no child My salary is 1.80 lac per month . Doing SIP 75K per month NPS 50 k yearly PPF 24 k yearly Having 2 plot costing about 40 lac and 2 flats . 5 lac invested in psu stocks 5 lac in gold bond And parental land property of near about 40 lac . Home loan pending of 40 lac ( which I will close in 4 years ) . Want to retire at age of 58 years with min 10 cr In account .pls guide
Ans: You are in a solid financial position with a stable monthly income of Rs 1.80 lakhs. You’re committed to disciplined saving and investing, demonstrated by your SIP contributions of Rs 75,000 per month, yearly NPS contributions of Rs 50,000, and a PPF contribution of Rs 24,000 annually. Additionally, you hold Rs 5 lakhs in PSU stocks and Rs 5 lakhs in gold bonds. Your real estate assets include two plots valued at Rs 40 lakhs and two flats, along with a parental property worth about Rs 40 lakhs. You also have a home loan of Rs 40 lakhs, which you plan to close within the next four years. Your goal is to retire at 58 with Rs 10 crores in savings.

This is an ambitious yet achievable goal. Let’s analyze your current situation and outline a strategy to help you reach your retirement target.

Evaluating Your Asset Allocation
Your portfolio is diversified across various asset classes, including equity, debt, and real estate. However, it’s important to assess the efficiency of your asset allocation in relation to your retirement goal.

Equity Investments: Your SIP contributions show a strong focus on equity, which is crucial for long-term wealth accumulation. Equity investments tend to provide higher returns over the long term, making them essential for reaching your Rs 10 crore target.

Debt Investments: Your investments in PPF, NPS, and gold bonds add stability to your portfolio. These are low-risk, low-return investments that protect your capital. However, their contribution to wealth creation might be limited.

Real Estate Investments: You have substantial investments in real estate, including two plots and two flats, along with parental property. While real estate can provide value appreciation, it is illiquid and may not align with your retirement needs. Holding a large portion of your wealth in real estate could impact your financial flexibility during retirement.

Diversification and Growth Potential
The key to achieving your retirement goal is ensuring your portfolio is well-diversified and growth-oriented.

Increase Equity Exposure: Given your goal of accumulating Rs 10 crores, it’s advisable to enhance your equity exposure. Equity is the most effective asset class for generating long-term returns. Actively managed equity funds, rather than index funds, can potentially offer better returns due to professional management.

Limit Real Estate Exposure: While you have significant real estate holdings, they are illiquid and may not generate the desired cash flow during retirement. Consider reducing your real estate exposure and reallocating these funds to more liquid and growth-oriented investments.

Maximize Tax-Efficient Investments: Continue with your NPS and PPF contributions, as they provide tax benefits and stability. However, focus on maximizing equity investments for higher returns.

Managing Your Home Loan
Your plan to close your Rs 40 lakh home loan within four years is commendable. Eliminating debt will free up cash flow, which can be redirected towards your retirement savings.

Prioritize Loan Repayment: While paying off your loan, ensure that your investment contributions are not compromised. A balanced approach is necessary to maintain growth in your retirement corpus while reducing debt.

Post-Loan Investment Strategy: Once your loan is cleared, consider increasing your SIP contributions or investing in other growth-oriented assets. This will help accelerate the accumulation of your retirement corpus.

Importance of Professional Guidance
Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide you with tailored advice and strategies to reach your retirement goal.

Customized Financial Plan: A CFP can create a comprehensive financial plan that aligns with your retirement goal. This includes asset allocation, risk management, and tax planning.

Regular Portfolio Reviews: Your portfolio should be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains on track with your financial objectives. A CFP can adjust your investment strategy based on changes in the market or your personal circumstances.

Retirement Planning: A CFP will help you determine the right mix of investments that balance growth with income generation, crucial for a comfortable retirement.

Tax Efficiency and Retirement Planning
Ensuring tax efficiency in your investments is essential for maximizing your retirement savings.

Equity Investments: Focus on long-term equity investments, as they are taxed at a lower rate compared to short-term gains. Actively managed funds can offer better after-tax returns compared to index funds.

Debt Investments: While debt investments provide stability, ensure they are also tax-efficient.

NPS Contributions: Your NPS contributions provide tax benefits under Section 80CCD(1B), making them a valuable component of your retirement plan.

Preparing for Retirement
To reach your goal of Rs 10 crores by age 58, it’s important to follow a structured investment strategy.

Increase SIP Contributions: Post home loan repayment, consider increasing your SIP contributions to further accelerate your wealth accumulation.

Consider a Balanced Portfolio: A balanced portfolio that includes equity, debt, and other investment options will help you achieve your financial goals. Ensure your portfolio is reviewed and adjusted regularly.

Plan for Retirement Income: As you approach retirement, consider shifting some of your growth-oriented investments to income-generating assets. This will ensure a steady cash flow during retirement.

Final Insights
Your financial position is strong, and with disciplined investing, your goal of Rs 10 crores by age 58 is within reach. Here’s a summary of the key steps:

Review Real Estate Holdings: Consider reducing real estate exposure to enhance liquidity and invest in growth-oriented assets.

Enhance Equity Exposure: Continue with your SIPs, focusing on actively managed funds for higher returns.

Close Home Loan Strategically: Pay off your loan as planned, but ensure it does not hinder your retirement savings.

Work with a CFP: Engage a Certified Financial Planner to create a tailored financial plan and regularly review your portfolio.

Focus on Tax Efficiency: Optimize your investments for tax efficiency to maximize your retirement corpus.

By following these steps, you can confidently work towards your retirement goal, ensuring financial security and peace of mind.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8125 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 29, 2025Hindi
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Money
I am a software professional aged 44+ with my wife( home maker) & 4.7 yr daughter. I am planning to retire at 45. I have 96 lacs in FD @7.25% rate for 10 years generating passive income of 45k every month. 9 lacs in shares, 21 lacs in mutual fund , 26 lacs in pf , land with valuation 50 lacs. I repaid all big debts like home loan. My current family expenses are 35k monthly.
Ans: You have built a strong financial base. Early retirement at 45 requires careful planning.

Analysing Your Current Financial Position
Fixed Deposits: Rs 96 lakh at 7.25% generating Rs 45,000 monthly.

Equity Investments: Rs 9 lakh in stocks and Rs 21 lakh in mutual funds.

Provident Fund: Rs 26 lakh secured for long-term growth.

Real Estate: Rs 50 lakh land value (not considered for cash flow).

No Liabilities: No major loans or EMIs.

Monthly Expenses: Rs 35,000 (manageable with current passive income).

Retirement Feasibility Check
Current passive income (Rs 45,000) covers monthly expenses (Rs 35,000).

Inflation will increase expenses over time.

Future medical and education costs need planning.

Stock and mutual fund investments can support long-term growth.

Investment Strategy for Early Retirement
Fixed Deposits
FDs provide stability but are taxable.

Inflation can reduce purchasing power over time.

Consider diversifying into better tax-efficient options.

Mutual Funds and Stocks
Mutual funds provide long-term growth.

SWP from mutual funds can provide tax-efficient monthly income.

Avoid selling all stocks; they offer inflation-beating returns.

Provident Fund
Keep it intact for long-term security.

Withdraw only if necessary.

Risk and Contingency Planning
Medical Emergencies: Ensure adequate health insurance.

Life Cover: Check if you need additional term insurance.

Emergency Fund: Keep at least 12 months of expenses in liquid assets.

Education and Future Expenses
Your daughter’s higher education will need planning.

Invest in child-focused mutual funds for long-term growth.

Avoid locking funds in non-liquid assets.

Final Insights
Your passive income supports current expenses.

Plan for inflation, medical needs, and future responsibilities.

Diversify investments for safety, growth, and tax efficiency.

Periodic reviews will ensure financial security.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Mar 20, 2025Hindi
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Sir what are some of the top colleges in India to study pharmacy after class 12? What is the eligibility criteria? Is NEET compulsory?
Ans: Hi,

I’m not sure where you’re from, but according to the NIRF, the top colleges are located in Ooty, Mysuru, Manipal, and Mumbai. In most states, NEET eligibility is not required for admission, but state-level exams are necessary. Many deemed-to-be universities conduct their own entrance exams, so if you’re interested in joining one of these universities, you can reach out to them for further information.
Eligibility Critieria:(https://gurus.rediff.com/question/qdtl/career/give-neet-exam-12th-maharashtra-board-marks-less-than-150/5186648)

Minimum qualification for admission to –(extracted from Pharmacy council of India.)
A(after HSC). First year B. Pharm – A pass in any of the following examinations - i. Candidate shall have passed 10+2 examination conducted by the respective state/central government authorities recognized as equivalent to 10+2 examination by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) with English as one of the subjects and Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology as optional subjects individually. “However, the students possessing 10+2 qualification from non-formal and non-class rooms based schooling such as National Institute of Open Schooling, open school systems of States etc. shall not be eligible for admission to B.Pharm Course.” ii. Any other qualification approved by the Pharmacy Council of India as equivalent to any of the above examinations. Provided that a student should complete the age of 17 years on or before 31st December of the year of admission to the course. Provided that there shall be reservation of seats for the students belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other Backward Classes in accordance with the instructions issued by the Central Government/State Government/Union Territory Administration as the case may be from time to time. B. B. Pharm lateral entry (to second year/third semester) - A pass in D. Pharm course from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India under section 12 of the Pharmacy Act

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Asked by Anonymous - Mar 03, 2025Hindi
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We are couple with 1 child. However, struggling with schools for my 11 year old who has autism, can talk and severe adhd. Schools are saying that they cannot enrol him yet due to behaviour and the fact that he wont listen to anyone and behave badly. He is smart in academics but likes to do things as he wishes creating issues. he struggles with peer communication and sitting in one place and will slouch and fall from the chair. Are there any options that we can look at. As his IQ is normal we feel he will struggle in a special school as well.
Ans: I understand how difficult and frustrating this situation must be for you as parents. Your child is bright and capable, but his challenges with behavior, attention, and sitting still are making school enrollment tough. Finding the right environment that supports both his academic strengths and his needs is essential. Inclusive schools with special education support or Montessori-style learning environments may offer a more flexible and understanding approach. Occupational therapy can help increase his sitting tolerance, posture, and focus, while behavioral therapy can support emotional regulation and social interactions. You might also consider discussing the option of a shadow teacher with school staff, as one-on-one assistance in a classroom can make a big difference. In case you don't get access to an occupational therapist, approach a physiotherapist with an understanding of Sensory Integration, as they can also help with improving his body awareness and tolerance for sitting. You are not alone in this journey, and with the right support, your child can thrive. I encourage you to connect with a special educator or developmental therapist to explore the best options for him. I request you to be strong and determined. for your son.

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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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