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

Can I retire at 38 without a child and live comfortably for the next 30-40 years?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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

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 - Feb 04, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money

Hi sir, i am 38 and married. No child. No loan. I have a land property of 2 crore. Have pf of 15L.my monthly expenses around 50k.I have my home. Don't want to work any more. If i retire now i can survive 4 - 5 years with the pf amount . Need yout suggestion how to invest property after that and can survive next 30-40 years.

Ans: Current Financial Snapshot

You are 38 years old and married.

You have no children or loans.

Own land worth Rs. 2 crore.

PF balance is Rs. 15 lakh.

Monthly expenses are around Rs. 50,000.

You own a home, so no rent burden.

Planning to retire now, relying on PF for 4-5 years.

Key Retirement Planning Considerations

You need funds to last 30-40 years.

Inflation will increase your living costs.

Healthcare costs may rise with age.

A stable income source is essential.

Phase 1: Using Your PF Wisely

Your PF can cover expenses for 4-5 years.

Don’t exhaust PF fully; keep an emergency reserve.

Invest a part of PF in liquid mutual funds for better returns than savings accounts.

Maintain 6-12 months' expenses in a savings account for emergencies.

Phase 2: Monetizing Your Land

Selling the land after PF depletes is practical.

Consider the land’s potential appreciation before selling.

If selling, ensure the sale covers at least 20-25 years of expenses.

Avoid partial sales unless the land can be divided legally.

Investment Strategy Post Land Sale

Diversify Investments

Allocate funds across equity mutual funds, debt funds, and fixed deposits.

This mix balances growth and stability.

Equity Mutual Funds for Growth

Invest 40-50% in actively managed equity mutual funds.

These funds help fight inflation over the long term.

Debt Funds for Stability

Invest 30-40% in debt mutual funds.

They offer better returns than FDs with tax efficiency.

Fixed Deposits for Safety

Keep 10-15% in FDs for assured returns and emergencies.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)

Use SWP from mutual funds for regular income.

This approach provides stable cash flow and tax benefits.

Managing Monthly Expenses

Ensure investment income covers Rs. 50,000 monthly expenses.

Adjust expenses periodically based on inflation.

Review the budget annually to stay on track.

Health and Medical Planning

Buy comprehensive health insurance if not already covered.

Increase coverage as you age to cover rising medical costs.

Consider critical illness insurance for added protection.

Emergency Fund

Keep an emergency fund equal to 1 year’s expenses.

Invest this in a savings account or liquid mutual fund.

This fund handles unexpected situations without disturbing investments.

Inflation Impact and Adjustments

Inflation will reduce the purchasing power of money.

Regularly review and adjust investments for inflation.

Equity mutual funds help in beating inflation effectively.

Tax Planning

Plan investments to minimize tax liability.

Use tax-efficient mutual funds under Section 80C if applicable.

Consult a tax expert annually to stay updated with tax rules.

Lifestyle Considerations

Consider part-time work or hobbies generating passive income.

This can reduce financial pressure and keep you engaged.

Volunteering or pursuing interests improves mental well-being post-retirement.

Reinvestment Strategy

Reinvest surplus returns to grow your corpus.

Don’t keep large idle funds in savings; invest wisely.

Review investments regularly with a Certified Financial Planner.

Potential Risks and Mitigation

Longevity Risk

Ensure your funds last 30-40 years.

Regularly review financial plans to adjust for life expectancy.

Market Risk

Diversify investments across asset classes.

Don’t panic during market volatility; stay invested long-term.

Health Risk

Adequate health insurance is non-negotiable.

Maintain a health emergency fund separately.

Psychological Preparation

Retirement is a significant lifestyle change.

Maintain social connections and active routines.

Stay mentally and physically active to enjoy retirement.

Reviewing Your Plan Regularly

Review your financial plan annually.

Adjust based on changes in expenses, market returns, or personal goals.

Reassess with a Certified Financial Planner periodically.

Finally

Your PF can support initial retirement years.

Selling the land can fund the next 30-40 years.

Diversified investments ensure growth and stability.

Regular reviews help stay on track with your retirement goals.

Prioritize health insurance and emergency funds for safety.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 19, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 39 years old IT employee , I have monthly income of 3.5 lakhs and have a 10 years old son and wife .I have 35 lakhs in PF and 8 lakhs in ppf ,All I invested is in real estate and no other investments also i have 48 lakhs lakh an remaining for a house ,Where should I invest of I need to lan retirement by 50 will need 1.5 lakhs income per month post that
Ans: Retiring by age 50 with a steady monthly income of Rs. 1.5 lakhs is a significant goal. Given your current assets, it's crucial to strategically plan your investments to achieve this target. You have a strong base, and with careful planning, you can reach your retirement goals.

Assessing Current Financial Situation
You have a solid monthly income of Rs. 3.5 lakhs. This is a good start.

You have Rs. 35 lakhs in your Provident Fund (PF) and Rs. 8 lakhs in your Public Provident Fund (PPF). These are excellent long-term savings.

You have invested Rs. 48 lakhs in real estate. However, real estate alone may not be enough for retirement. Diversifying your portfolio is crucial.

Understanding the Importance of Diversification
Diversification is key to minimizing risk and maximizing returns. Currently, your investments are concentrated in real estate. You should consider diversifying into different asset classes.

Building a Balanced Investment Portfolio
1. Equity Mutual Funds:

Equity mutual funds can provide high returns over the long term. They are suitable for your retirement goal, which is more than a decade away.

Consider allocating a portion of your funds to diversified equity mutual funds. These funds invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks, providing a balanced exposure to the equity market.

2. Debt Mutual Funds:

Debt mutual funds are less risky compared to equity funds. They provide stable returns and can be used to balance the risk in your portfolio.

Investing in debt funds will ensure that a portion of your investments remains safe, while still earning moderate returns.

3. Public Provident Fund (PPF):

Your current PPF investment is Rs. 8 lakhs. Continue contributing to PPF as it offers tax benefits and guaranteed returns. It’s a safe investment for long-term financial goals.

4. Provident Fund (PF):

With Rs. 35 lakhs in PF, you already have a significant amount saved. Ensure you continue contributing to this fund, as it provides a reliable source of retirement income.

Exploring the Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds, run by experienced fund managers, can potentially outperform the market. These funds require active monitoring and adjustment, which can lead to better returns compared to passive index funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds:

Index funds follow the market index, and they do not aim to outperform it. This means during market downturns, index funds will also suffer. They lack the flexibility to adjust holdings based on market conditions.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds:

Actively managed funds have the potential to generate higher returns. Fund managers can make strategic decisions based on market trends and economic conditions. They can also provide a more tailored investment approach.

Considering the Role of Certified Financial Planners
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can offer several advantages. They provide personalized advice and help create a financial plan tailored to your goals.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds:

Investing directly without professional guidance can be risky. You might miss out on strategic opportunities and fail to manage risk effectively. A CFP can help optimize your investment strategy.

Benefits of Regular Funds through CFP:

Investing through regular funds with the help of a CFP ensures you receive expert advice. They can help you navigate market complexities and make informed decisions. This professional guidance can lead to better financial outcomes.

Creating a Retirement Corpus
To achieve your retirement goal of Rs. 1.5 lakhs monthly income post-retirement, you need to build a substantial corpus. Given your current assets and income, a disciplined investment approach is essential.

1. Setting Clear Goals:

Define how much you need at retirement. This will help you understand how much to save and invest each month.

2. Regular Investments:

Invest regularly in mutual funds through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). SIPs help in averaging out market volatility and build a corpus over time.

3. Reviewing and Rebalancing:

Regularly review your investment portfolio. Rebalance it to ensure it aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. This involves shifting funds between asset classes based on market performance and your investment horizon.

Importance of Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses. This fund should cover at least six months' worth of expenses. It ensures you don't have to dip into your long-term investments in case of emergencies.

Managing Insurance Needs
Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. Life insurance protects your family in case of any unfortunate event. Health insurance covers medical expenses, preventing financial strain.

Planning for Your Child's Future
Your 10-year-old son's education and future needs should also be planned for. Consider investing in child-specific mutual funds or creating a dedicated investment plan for his higher education and other needs.

Evaluating Current Investments
Real Estate:

While real estate can provide good returns, it's not very liquid. Consider the rental income potential and capital appreciation of your property.

Provident Fund (PF) and Public Provident Fund (PPF):

These are secure investments with tax benefits. Continue contributing to these funds for long-term stability.

Achieving Financial Independence
To achieve financial independence by 50, you need a comprehensive financial plan. This involves:

1. Increasing Savings:

Try to save and invest a significant portion of your income. Aim to save at least 30-40% of your monthly income.

2. Reducing Debt:

Avoid taking on new debt. Pay off any existing loans to reduce financial burden.

3. Enhancing Income:

Explore ways to increase your income. This could be through promotions, bonuses, or side gigs.

Final Insights
Reaching your retirement goal by 50 is achievable with disciplined planning and strategic investments. Diversify your portfolio, invest in equity and debt mutual funds, and continue contributing to PF and PPF. Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner to optimize your investments and ensure a secure financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 13, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I am 28 years old. I have 4L in Mutual Funds, 5.5L in FD, 3L in MIS & 23L in PPF. How do I continue my investment to be able to purchase a property and construct a house in 3 years, a car in 2 years, and retire with at least 10 Cr by the age of 55 years. Current income is 1L per month.
Ans: Current Financial Situation
You are 28 years old and earn Rs 1 lakh per month. Your current investments include:

Rs 4 lakh in Mutual Funds
Rs 5.5 lakh in Fixed Deposit (FD)
Rs 3 lakh in Monthly Income Scheme (MIS)
Rs 23 lakh in Public Provident Fund (PPF)
Your goals are to:

Purchase a property and construct a house in 3 years
Buy a car in 2 years
Retire with at least Rs 10 crore by age 55
Immediate Goals: Car Purchase in 2 Years
To buy a car in 2 years, you need to save in low-risk investments.

Short-Term Debt Mutual Funds

These funds offer better returns than savings accounts and FDs with low risk.

Fixed Deposits

Continue using FDs for guaranteed returns and safety.

Recurring Deposits

Set up RDs for regular, disciplined savings.

Mid-Term Goals: Property Purchase and Construction in 3 Years
For your property and house construction, consider:

Debt Mutual Funds

Short-term debt funds are less volatile and provide steady returns.

Fixed Maturity Plans (FMPs)

These plans lock in your investment for a fixed period with predictable returns.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)

Continue investing in POMIS for a steady income and low risk.

Long-Term Goals: Retirement Planning
To accumulate Rs 10 crore by age 55, you need a balanced investment strategy.

Equity Mutual Funds

Invest in actively managed equity mutual funds. These funds often outperform index funds due to active management.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)

Continue investing in PPF for tax-free returns and long-term growth.

National Pension System (NPS)

NPS offers tax benefits and helps build a substantial retirement corpus.

Asset Allocation Strategy
Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund covering 6 months of expenses. This can be kept in a high-interest savings account or a liquid mutual fund.

Diversified Portfolio

Equity: 50% of your savings should go into equity mutual funds for long-term growth.
Debt: 30% in debt mutual funds, FDs, and POMIS for stability and regular income.
PPF and NPS: 20% to ensure long-term growth and tax benefits.
Monthly Investment Plan
Equity Mutual Funds

Invest Rs 25,000 per month through SIPs in equity mutual funds.

Debt Mutual Funds

Allocate Rs 15,000 per month to short-term debt funds.

Recurring Deposit

Set up an RD of Rs 10,000 per month for disciplined savings.

PPF and NPS

Invest Rs 10,000 per month in PPF and Rs 10,000 in NPS.

Tax Planning
Section 80C Investments

Maximize the Rs 1.5 lakh limit under Section 80C. Investments in PPF, NPS, and ELSS are tax-efficient.

Health Insurance

Consider health insurance. Premiums are tax-deductible under Section 80D.

Final Insights
Start investing early to benefit from compounding.
Diversify your investments to balance risk and returns.
Review and adjust your investment portfolio regularly.
Stay disciplined and consistent with your investment plan.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi Vivek, I am 45 year old. Myself and wife together earning 2.3L p.m. We have kids of aged 11 years and 3 years. Our monthly expenses are around 90K. We have home loan of 75L with 80k EMI for a tenure of 13 years and need to pay 30L for our new property in one year period. We have 50L worth apartment, 40L in PPF, 55L in PF, 20L in NPS, 40L in MF, 10L in stocks and 10L in ULIPs. We have monthly MF SIP of 40K and 10K pm for term and health insurances. We are expecting around 1cr expenses for children education till their graduation.We want to retire in next 10 years with 1L monthly income. Please advice on how to invest and plan for our future.
Ans: Existing Financial Position
Sources of Income and Expenses:

Monthly income: 2.3 lakhs
Monthly expenditure: Rs 90,000
Home loan EMI: Rs 80,000 (13 years tenure)
Probable payment towards new property: Rs 30 lakhs (can be within one year)
Assets and Investments:

Apartment value: Rs 50 lakhs
PPF: Rs 40 lakhs
PF: Rs 55 lakhs
NPS: Rs 20 lakhs
Mutual Funds: Rs 40 lakhs
Shares and Stocks: Rs 10 lakhs
ULIPs: Rs 10 lakhs
Insurance:

Insurance premium payment by month: Rs 10,000 (Term and Health Insurance)
SIP:

Monthly SIP: Rs 40,000
Education Expenses:

Child's education expense : Rs 1 crore
Retirement Goals
Retirement Plan:

Retirement age: 55 years
Desired monthly income post-retirement: Rs 1 lakh
Analysis and Recommendations
Debt Management:

Firstly, try to repay the home loan.
If possible, prepay the loan to lessen interest burden.
Investment Strategy:

Continue with existing SIPs.
If possible, increase SIPs to enlarge the corpus.
Diversification:

Your investments are very well diversified.
There needs to be a balance between equity and debt.
Education Fund:

Set aside a dedicated fund for children's education.
Use a mix of PPF, mutual funds, and fixed deposits.
Emergency Fund:

Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months of expenses.
Use liquid funds or a savings account for this purpose.
Retirement Corpus:

Calculate the required corpus for Rs 1 lakh monthly income.
Take into consideration inflation and healthcare costs.
Health and Term Insurance:

Take stock of your insurance coverage
Ensure that it is adequate to cover possible medical expenses.
Action Plan
Increase SIPs:

Gradually increase the amount of the monthly SIP.
Mix of large-cap, mid-cap and balanced funds.
Education of Children:

Allocate some mutual funds for education.
Child-specific education plans can be invested in if they are better in terms of returns.
Prepayment of Home Loan:

Utilize excess income and bonus for pre-paying the home loan.
The burden on the tenure and interest decreases.
Regular Review:

Yearly review of your financial plan
Investments alter with the market condition and change in goals.
Final Takeaways
You are doing well on the financial front. Now, increase your SIPs and try to prepay on your home loan. Diversify your portfolio appropriately with adequate insurance coverage. Such disciplined planning with periodic reviews will help you achieve retirement goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 20, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 19, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
I'm 44, i want to retire now. Having two own houses 1cr and 2 cr value which gives 80K per month rent and have one to stay. Having agricultural land giving 1 lakh per month income. No loans . One son studying engineering and have 20 L separately for his studies. Having LIC endomenr policy wirh 50 L return and four years term to to paid ,1L per year. Having 70 L cash. Having three fixed asset plots which im not getting any income as of now and may value 15L, 40L and 2 Cr. Having health insurance of 25 L.Now i want to invest 50 L for wealth creation for my son. Please suggest me how to invest. im thinking to dispose one of my fixed asset like house and invest . Please suggest how can i grow my wealth. I have ppf 40L amount , gold 200 grams as coins and 5kg silver as bars which i can consider for investment. My monthly expenses would be 50K. What way i can invest my remaining income
Ans: You have built a strong financial base. Your rental income, agricultural income, and existing assets give you financial security. Now, let's focus on wealth creation and investment strategies for your son and yourself.

Investment of Rs 50 Lakh for Your Son
Invest Rs 30 lakh in actively managed equity mutual funds. Choose funds based on long-term growth potential.

Allocate Rs 10 lakh in a mix of mid-cap and small-cap funds for higher returns.

Put Rs 5 lakh in debt funds for stability and liquidity.

Keep Rs 5 lakh in a liquid fund for emergencies related to his education.

What to Do with LIC Endowment Policy?
Endowment policies give low returns. They are not good for wealth creation.

Surrender the policy and reinvest the maturity amount in mutual funds.

Use part of this money for equity mutual funds and part for debt funds.

Should You Sell a Fixed Asset for Investment?
Selling the Rs 2 crore plot can give a large capital for investment.

Real estate lacks liquidity and does not generate income.

Invest the sale proceeds into a combination of equity mutual funds and debt funds.

Keep a portion in REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) if you want real estate exposure.

Investing the Remaining Income
Your total passive income is Rs 1.8 lakh per month.

Expenses are Rs 50,000 per month.

You have a surplus of Rs 1.3 lakh per month.

Invest Rs 80,000 per month in SIP of actively managed mutual funds.

Keep Rs 50,000 in a debt fund or bank account for liquidity.

Managing PPF, Gold, and Silver
Your PPF balance of Rs 40 lakh is safe and tax-free. Let it grow.

Gold and silver are good for wealth preservation, but not wealth creation.

Convert part of your gold (Rs 10 lakh worth) into Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) for interest income.

Final Insights
Invest your wealth in actively managed mutual funds through an MFD with CFP credentials.

Sell one of your fixed assets to increase liquidity and investment returns.

Reinvest LIC policy maturity into high-growth investments.

SIP investments will help in consistent wealth growth.

Keep a mix of equity, debt, and gold bonds for a balanced portfolio.

Review your investments every year to align with financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 05, 2025

Money
Hi Sir, I am 40 year old, married with 3 kids, (ages: 8,4,1). I have invested around 2 Cr but all in real estate. Invested around 7 lakhs in mutual funds and ulip. Want to retire at 45. Until 5 years I can invest 2 lakhs per month from now. Please advice this upcoming investment and if my earlier real estate investment is to be rearranged. My monthly expense now is inr 50,000. Awaiting your valuable advice
Ans: Based on your inputs, here is a detailed, 360-degree assessment and action plan prepared in a simple yet professional language, following your structure and preferences.

Life Stage and Goals
You are 40 years old and married.

You have 3 children: 8, 4 and 1 years old.

You plan to retire at 45. So, only 5 years left.

You can invest Rs. 2 lakh every month for 5 years.

Your current monthly expense is Rs. 50,000.

This is a high-priority case that needs strong action and clarity.

Current Asset Allocation
Real estate investment totals around Rs. 2 crore.

Only Rs. 7 lakh invested in mutual funds and ULIP.

Your portfolio is heavily real estate-focused.

This creates low liquidity and low diversification.

It also affects flexibility and access to funds.

Issue With Overinvestment in Real Estate
Real estate is illiquid. You can’t sell quickly.

Real estate returns are slow and depend on market cycle.

Rental income is low. Maintenance and taxes are high.

No regular compounding like mutual funds.

Resale demand is often unpredictable.

This asset class lacks agility, which is vital before retirement.

You must rebalance your portfolio gradually.

Start planning partial exit from real estate.

Convert some assets into financial products.

Problems With ULIP and What To Do
You have some money in ULIP and mutual funds.

ULIPs are mixed products. Returns are low and charges are high.

Lock-in is long. Transparency is poor.

You cannot change strategy freely.

If the ULIP is not tax heavy to exit now, surrender it.

Switch that amount into goal-specific mutual funds.

Only do this with the help of a Certified Financial Planner.

How to Use Rs. 2 Lakh Monthly Investment for 5 Years
You have a strong capacity to invest Rs. 2 lakh monthly.

This must be fully optimised.

Invest through SIPs and STPs in diversified mutual funds.

Always use regular plans via a certified MFD under CFP supervision.

Avoid direct plans. They seem cheaper but give less guidance.

Direct plans do not provide emotional support during market crashes.

Regular plans help maintain discipline and avoid panic withdrawals.

Avoiding Index Funds
Many suggest index funds for simplicity.

But index funds lack downside protection.

No expert handles the portfolio actively.

They just copy the market. No smart decision-making.

Actively managed funds outperform during volatile times.

Use large-cap, mid-cap and hybrid actively managed mutual funds.

Choose only consistent and transparent fund houses.

Key Investment Strategy From Now Onwards
Break your monthly Rs. 2 lakh into buckets:

Long term equity funds: Rs. 90,000

Aggressive hybrid funds: Rs. 60,000

Debt/short-term funds: Rs. 30,000

Gold fund or ETF: Rs. 20,000

(Optional: Use STP if investing lump sum from real estate proceeds.)

Link each investment to your goal:

Retirement corpus

Children’s higher education

Emergency fund

Passive income creation

Keep a clear timeline for each goal.

Building Emergency and Liquidity Reserve
You must keep Rs. 10 to 15 lakh in liquid or short-term funds.

This acts as your emergency buffer.

Don't depend on property for emergency needs.

Property cannot be sold fast. That puts your family at risk.

Keep this fund always accessible but separate from investments.

Child's Education and Family Protection
With 3 kids, education cost will rise fast.

Start 3 separate SIPs for each child's future.

Use child-friendly hybrid funds or flexi-cap funds.

Keep a term insurance cover of at least Rs. 2 crore.

Don't rely on ULIP or endowment plans for protection.

Health insurance for the whole family must be Rs. 25 to 30 lakh.

Upgrade the coverage as the kids grow.

What to Do With Existing Real Estate Assets
Start reviewing the resale value of at least one property.

Exit from 25% to 30% of the portfolio.

Use that to build your investment base.

Remaining real estate can be kept if it gives rental income.

But no new real estate investment from now onwards.

Focus completely on financial assets for retirement planning.

Tax Planning Points You Must Keep in Mind
Mutual fund capital gains have changed recently:

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh in equity funds taxed at 12.5%.

STCG taxed at 20%.

Debt fund gains taxed as per income slab.

ULIP surrender gains may be taxable.

Get proper advice from a tax CA or CFP before exiting.

Creating Retirement Corpus in 5 Years
Rs. 2 lakh monthly for 5 years = Rs. 1.2 crore investment.

You also have Rs. 2 crore locked in real estate.

If you reallocate Rs. 1 crore from real estate to mutual funds…

You will have Rs. 2.2 crore in financial instruments by age 45.

With growth, this could become close to Rs. 3 crore or more.

It will not reach Rs. 5 crore unless returns are very high.

So, plan to work part-time after 45 to reduce pressure.

Or reduce expenses below Rs. 50,000 to stretch retirement fund.

Finally
You have good income and high savings ability.

But portfolio is not balanced.

Heavy real estate exposure is risky and inflexible.

Rebalance slowly but consistently.

Surrender low-yield policies. Avoid ULIP, direct plans, and index funds.

Use only regular mutual funds guided by a CFP-backed MFD.

Focus on equity funds, hybrid funds, and gold.

Plan every investment with a timeline and target.

Start exit strategy from real estate early.

Keep insurance and emergency fund up to date.

This is how you can build a solid base for a happy retired life.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Anu

Anu Krishna  |1746 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 08, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi i am 40M. would request your help to understand what should be the corpus required for retirement as i want to get retired in next 3-5yrs. currently my take home is 2.3L monthly & my wife also works but leaving the job in next 2-3 months. we have a daughter 10yrs, currently i stay on rent and total monthly expense is 1.1L month. once i will retire we will shift in our own parental flat, where hopefully there will be no rent. current Investments 1. 50L in REC bonds getting matured in 2029 2. 42L in stocks 3. 17L in MF 4. 16L FD 5. 15L in PPF 6. 1.3L SIP monthly i do My Wife Investments 1. 30L corpus 2. flat with current value 40L and we get rental of 10K monthly. Please guide what should be the retirement corpus required combined to retire, assuming i need 75L for my daughter post grad and marriage and we would be requiring 75K monthly for our expenses after retiring
Ans: You have explained your income, goals, current assets, and future plans with great clarity. Your early planning spirit is strong. This gives a very good base. You can reach a peaceful retirement with smart steps in the next few years.

» Your Current Position

You are 40 years old. You plan to retire in 3 to 5 years. You earn Rs 2.3 lakh per month. Your wife also works but will stop working soon. You have one daughter aged 10. Your current monthly cost is around Rs 1.1 lakh. This cost will reduce after retirement because you will shift to your parental flat.

Your investment base is already good. You have saved in bonds, stocks, mutual funds, PPF, FD, and SIP. Your wife also has her own savings and rental income from a flat. All these create a good starting point.

This early base helps you plan stronger. It also gives room for more shaping. You are on the right road.

» Your Family Goals

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s higher education and marriage.

You want Rs 75,000 per month for family living after retirement.

You want to retire in 3 to 5 years.

You will shift to your parental flat after retirement.

You will have rental income of Rs 10,000 from your wife’s flat.

These goals are clear. They give direction. They allow a strong plan.

» Your Present Investments

Your investments include:

Rs 50 lakh in REC bonds maturing in 2029.

Rs 42 lakh in stocks.

Rs 17 lakh in mutual funds.

Rs 16 lakh in fixed deposits.

Rs 15 lakh in PPF.

Rs 1.3 lakh as monthly SIP.

Your wife holds:

Rs 30 lakh corpus.

A flat worth Rs 40 lakh with rent of Rs 10,000 each month.

Your combined net worth is healthy. This gives good power to build your retirement fund in the coming years.

» Understanding Your Expense Need After Retirement

You expect Rs 75,000 per month after retirement. This includes all basic needs. You will not have rent. That reduces cost. This assumption looks fair today.

Your cost will rise with inflation. So you must plan for rising needs. A strong retirement corpus must support rising cost for 40 to 45 years because you are retiring early.

An early retirement needs a large buffer. So you need safety along with growth. Your plan must include growth assets and safety assets.

» How Much Monthly Income You Will Need Later

Rs 75,000 per month is Rs 9 lakh per year. In future years, this cost can rise. If we assume steady rise, your future cost will be much higher.

So the retirement corpus must be designed to:

Give monthly income.

Beat inflation.

Support you for 40 to 45 years.

Protect your family even in market down cycles.

Allow flexibility if your needs change.

A strong retirement fund must support both safety and long-term growth.

» How Much Corpus You Should Target

A safe target is a large and flexible corpus that can support long years without running out of money. For early retirement, the usual thumb rule suggests a very high number. This is because you need income for many decades.

You need a corpus big enough to produce rising income. You also need a cushion for unexpected health costs, lifestyle shocks, and inflation changes.

Your target retirement corpus should be in a strong range. For your needs of Rs 75,000 per month and for goals like daughter’s education and marriage, you should aim for a combined retirement readiness corpus in the higher bracket.

A safe range for your family would be a very large number crossing multiple crores. This large range gives you:

Income safety.

Inflation protection.

Peace during market cycles.

Comfort in long life.

Room for daughter’s future.

Strong backup for health.

You are already on the way due to your existing assets. You will reach close to this range with systematic building over the next 3 to 5 years.

» Why You Need This Larger Corpus

You will retire early. That means more years of living from your corpus. Your corpus must not fall early. It must grow even after retirement. It must give monthly income and long-term family protection.

This is only possible when the corpus is strong and well-structured. A weak corpus creates stress. A strong corpus creates freedom.

Also, your daughter’s future cost must be kept aside. This must be parked in a separate fund. This must not touch your retirement money.

A strong corpus makes these two worlds separate and safe.

» Your Existing Assets and Their Strength

You already have good diversification:

Bonds give safety.

Stocks give growth.

Mutual funds give managed growth.

FD gives stability.

PPF gives tax-free long-term savings.

This blend is already a good start. But you need to make the blend more structured for early retirement.

Your Rs 1.3 lakh monthly SIP is also strong. It builds your future fast. You should continue.

Your wife’s rental income is small but steady. This adds strength.

Your combined financial base can reach your retirement target if you refine your allocation now.

» Your Daughter’s Future Fund Need

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s education and marriage. You should keep this goal separate from your retirement goal.

Your current SIP and future allocations should create a dedicated fund for this goal. A long-term fund can grow well when managed actively.

Do not mix this fund with your retirement needs. Mixing leads to shortage in old age. Always keep this corpus ring-fenced.

» A Strong Asset Mix For Your Retirement Path

A balanced mix is needed. You need growth assets to beat inflation. You also need stable assets for income.

You must avoid index funds because they do not give flexibility. Index funds follow a fixed index. They cannot make active changes in different markets. They cannot move to better stocks when markets change. They force you to stay in weak sectors for long. They also do not help you in down cycles because they cannot protect you by shifting to safer options. This can hurt retirement planning.

Actively managed funds are better because:

They give active asset selection.

They give scope for better returns.

They give flexibility to change sectors.

They give downside management.

They give access to a skilled fund manager.

They support long-term planning more safely.

Direct plans also carry risk. Direct plans do not give guidance. They do not give behavioural support. They do not give market timing help. They do not give portfolio shaping. They leave all the judgement to you. One mistake can cost years of wealth.

Regular plans with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner help you shape decisions. They help you remain disciplined. They help you avoid panic. They help you decide allocation changes at the right time. This saves wealth in long-term.

» How Your Investment Journey Should Grow in the Next 3–5 Years

Continue your SIP.

Increase SIP when your income rises.

Shift part of your stock holding into planned long-term mutual funds to reduce concentration risk.

Build a defined daughter’s education fund.

Keep a part of your REC bond maturity amount for long-term.

Avoid locking too much into fixed deposits for long periods.

Build a safety fund for one year of expenses.

This will create a full structure.

» Your Rental Income Role

Your rental income of Rs 10,000 per month is small but steady. Over time it will rise. This income will support your monthly cash flow after retirement.

You can use this for utilities or health insurance premiums. This gives a cushion.

» Your Emergency Buffer

You should keep at least one year of essential cost in a safe place. This can be in a liquid account or short-term fund. This protects you in shocks.

Since you plan early retirement, a strong buffer is important. It gives peace even in low months.

» A Structured Retirement Approach

A complete retirement plan for you should include:

A clear monthly income plan after retirement.

A corpus that can grow and protect.

A rising income system that matches inflation.

A separate daughter’s future fund.

A health cover plan for your family.

A tax-efficient withdrawal plan.

A market cycle plan to protect you in tough times.

This holistic approach keeps your family strong for decades.

» What You Should Build by Retirement Year

Your aim should be to reach a strong multi-crore range in investments before retirement. You already hold a large amount. You will add more in the next 3 to 5 years through SIP, stock growth, bond maturity, and disciplined saving.

Once you reach your target range, you can start the shifting process:

Move a part to stable assets.

Keep a part in long-term growth assets.

Create a monthly income strategy.

Keep a reserve bucket.

Keep a child future bucket.

Keep a long-term growth bucket.

This structure protects you in all market conditions.

» Final Insights

Your financial journey is already strong. You have a good income. You have saved well. You have multiple asset types. You have a clear timeline. And you have clear goals. This foundation is solid.

In the next 3 to 5 years, your focus should be on growing your combined corpus to a strong multi-crore range, keeping a separate fund for your daughter, reducing risk in unplanned assets, and building a stable long-term structure.

With the present path and a disciplined structure, you can retire peacefully and support your family with confidence for many decades.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2499 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Money
Hello my name is saket, I monthly salary is 43k and my saving is zero. My Rent is 15 k and 10 k i send to my parents. How can i save money and investments.
Ans: 1. Your Current Monthly Numbers

Salary: Rs 43,000

Rent: Rs 15,000

Support to parents: Rs 10,000

Left with: Rs 18,000 for food, travel, bills, and savings

You have very little room, but saving is still possible if done smartly.

2. First Step: Build a Small Emergency Buffer

You must build Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 emergency money.
This protects you from taking loans for small issues.

How to build it:

Save Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 every month in a simple bank savings account

Do this for the next few months

Don’t touch it unless truly needed

3. Create a Mini Budget (Very Simple One)

Try this split from the remaining Rs 18,000:

Daily living (food + transport): Rs 10,000 – 11,000

Personal expenses (phone, internet, basics): Rs 3,000 – 4,000

Savings + investments: Rs 3,000 – 5,000

If this feels difficult, reduce food/transport costs by small adjustments.

4. Where to Invest Once You Have Emergency Money

(For minors: This is general education. For actual investing, get guidance from a trusted adult or family member.)

After you build emergency money, start small monthly investing.

You can begin with:

Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 SIP in a simple, diversified equity fund

Increase the SIP whenever salary increases or expenses reduce

Avoid complicated products.
Keep it simple.
Focus on consistency.

5. Easy Practical Ways to Increase Saving

These small moves help a lot:

Avoid food delivery

Use public transport as much as possible

Reduce subscriptions you don’t use

Fix a daily expense limit

Keep a separate bank account only for savings

Even Rs 200 saved daily = Rs 6,000 monthly.

6. Increase Income Slowly

Try small income boosters:

Weekend tutoring

Freelancing

Part-time projects

Selling old gadgets

Learning new skills for future salary growth

Even Rs 3,000 extra income changes your savings life.

7. Build the Habit First

The amount doesn’t matter in the beginning.
The habit matters more.

Even saving Rs 500 every month is better than zero.
Once salary grows, you will already know how to save.

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.

Close  

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

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

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

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

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

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x