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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 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 - Apr 27, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I am 38 and my monthly earning is around 2.5 lakhs. I have a couple of personal loans with emi of 58k, 24k respectively. And my monthly living and essential expenses around 85k. How can I achieve retirement fund of 3.5 crores? Kindly suggest a financial plan to achieve it. FYI, I have 2 school going kids. And I need to plan for their higher education.

Ans: Achieving a retirement fund of 3.5 crores might seem daunting, but with careful planning and discipline, it's definitely feasible. Given your current situation, here's a tailored financial plan to help you reach that goal.

Firstly, let's address your existing loans. It's crucial to prioritize paying off high-interest debt like personal loans to free up more funds for saving and investing. Consider strategizing to clear these debts as soon as possible.

Next, let's focus on your monthly expenses. Your essential expenses seem reasonable, but it's always wise to review and see if there are areas where you can cut back without compromising your family's well-being.

Now, let's talk about investing. With a monthly earning of 2.5 lakhs, you have a good base to start building your retirement corpus. Instead of index funds, which might have limitations, you could consider actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner. These funds have the potential to outperform the market and maximize returns for your retirement.

Given that you have two school-going kids, it's essential to plan for their higher education expenses as well. Look into setting up separate investment vehicles for their education fund, such as mutual funds or education savings plans.

Consistency is key. Stick to a disciplined savings and investment strategy each month. As your income grows over time, consider increasing your investment contributions to accelerate your retirement savings.

Lastly, don't forget about insurance. Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage to protect your family from unforeseen circumstances that could derail your financial plans.

Remember, achieving your retirement goal requires patience and perseverance. Stay focused on your long-term objectives, and you'll steadily progress towards financial security.

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  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 03, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I have 35 years old, my in salary is 19LPA in hand. I have a fixed deposit of 2 lakh, 15k sip, 2L invested in stock, 2lakh and 4 lakh emergency fund I have a 2 years old daughter, I don't have any loan. how to plan my retirement
Ans: You are 35 years old with a monthly salary of Rs 19 lakhs per annum in hand. You have a fixed deposit of Rs 2 lakh, a SIP of Rs 15,000, Rs 2 lakh invested in stocks, and a Rs 4 lakh emergency fund. You also have a 2-year-old daughter and no loans.

Evaluating Your Financial Goals
Your primary goal is to plan for retirement. This involves determining how much you need to retire comfortably and creating a plan to achieve that goal.

Setting Retirement Goals
Retirement Age: Decide when you want to retire. Let's assume at age 60.
Post-Retirement Expenses: Estimate your monthly expenses during retirement. Factor in inflation.
Emergency Fund
You already have an emergency fund of Rs 4 lakh. This is a good start. Ensure it covers at least 6-12 months of expenses.

Maintain Adequate Coverage: Regularly update your emergency fund as your expenses grow.
Fixed Deposit
Your Rs 2 lakh fixed deposit provides a safety net but offers low returns.

Consider Alternatives: Higher returns options like debt mutual funds for better growth.
SIP (Systematic Investment Plan)
Your Rs 15,000 SIP is a disciplined approach to investing.

Increase SIP: As your income grows, increase your SIP amount. Aim for at least 20-30% of your salary in investments.
Stock Investments
You have Rs 2 lakh invested in stocks.

Diversify Portfolio: Ensure your stock investments are diversified to reduce risk.
Regular Review: Monitor and review your portfolio regularly.
Retirement Corpus Calculation
Estimate the corpus needed for retirement based on your current lifestyle and inflation.

Online Calculators: Use retirement calculators for precise estimates.
Investment Options
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds can provide good returns over the long term. Consider a mix of equity and debt funds.

Equity Funds: For long-term growth.
Debt Funds: For stability and income.
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a safe investment with tax benefits. It offers good returns over the long term.

Invest Regularly: Maximize your PPF contributions annually.
National Pension System (NPS)
NPS is a retirement-focused investment option with tax benefits.

Regular Contributions: Invest regularly for long-term growth and retirement corpus.
Child's Education Fund
Start planning for your daughter's education early.

Education SIP: Set up a separate SIP for your daughter's education fund.
Child Plans: Consider child education plans for specific goals.
Insurance
Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage.

Life Insurance: Term insurance to cover financial liabilities.
Health Insurance: Adequate health coverage for the family.
Tax Planning
Optimize your tax savings through various investment options.

Tax-saving Instruments: Utilize PPF, ELSS, and NPS for tax benefits.
Creating a Diversified Portfolio
A well-diversified portfolio reduces risk and enhances returns.

Asset Allocation: Allocate assets across equity, debt, and alternative investments based on risk tolerance.
Suggested Allocation
Equity Funds: 60% for long-term growth.
Debt Funds: 20% for stability.
PPF/NPS: 20% for retirement and tax benefits.
Regular Monitoring and Review
Regularly review and adjust your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals.

Annual Reviews: Review your portfolio and make adjustments annually.
Consult CFP: Work with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice.
Final Insights
Planning for retirement requires a disciplined and diversified approach. Increase your SIP, diversify investments, and utilize tax-saving instruments. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to stay on track. Leverage the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner for optimal results.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 24, 2024Hindi
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Hello I am Avneesh, My age is 48 years, I am single and my monthly income is approx. 1.5 lakh, I have no loan and any liability. I have 31 lakh in Shares , approx 30 lakh in PPF, 10 lakh in mutual fund , approx 29 lakh in saving. I want to retire in next 2 years . what will my financial plan for retirement income of 60,0000 to 70,000 per month
Ans: You are 48 years old and plan to retire in 2 years.

You are single with no loans or liabilities.

Your monthly income is approximately Rs 1.5 lakh.

You have Rs 31 lakh in shares, approximately Rs 30 lakh in PPF, Rs 10 lakh in mutual funds, and approximately Rs 29 lakh in savings.

Your goal is to have a monthly retirement income of Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000.

Current Financial Assets

Shares: Rs 31 lakh

PPF: Rs 30 lakh

Mutual Funds: Rs 10 lakh

Savings: Rs 29 lakh

Total: Rs 100 lakh (Rs 1 crore)

Retirement Income Strategy

Fixed Income Investments

Allocate a portion of your savings to fixed income investments.

Consider options like fixed deposits, senior citizen savings schemes, and government bonds.

These provide stable and predictable income.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) in Mutual Funds

Use mutual funds to set up a SWP.

This allows you to withdraw a fixed amount monthly.

Invest in a mix of equity and debt funds for balanced growth.

Annuities

Consider purchasing an annuity for guaranteed income.

Annuities provide regular payments for life.

Choose the annuity that best fits your needs.

Dividend-Paying Stocks

Invest in high-quality dividend-paying stocks.

Dividends provide a regular income stream.

Focus on stable companies with a history of consistent dividends.

Asset Allocation and Diversification

Equity and Debt Balance

Maintain a balanced portfolio of equity and debt.

Equity provides growth, while debt offers stability.

A 40:60 equity to debt ratio can be considered.

Diversification

Diversify investments across different asset classes.

This reduces risk and ensures steady returns.

Review and adjust your portfolio regularly.

Building the Retirement Corpus

Additional Investments

Continue contributing to your PPF and mutual funds for the next 2 years.

Increase SIP contributions if possible.

Aim to grow your retirement corpus further.

Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund equal to 6-12 months of expenses.

Keep this fund in a liquid savings account or short-term FD.

This fund provides financial security for unforeseen events.

Health Insurance

Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage.

Review and update your health insurance policy.

Consider additional coverage for critical illnesses.

Estate Planning

Plan for the distribution of your assets.

Consider writing a will and setting up a trust.

Ensure your assets are passed on according to your wishes.

Regular Review and Adjustment

Review your financial plan every six months.

Adjust based on market conditions and personal circumstances.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for professional advice.

Final Insights

With careful planning, you can achieve a comfortable retirement.

Allocate your assets wisely between equity, debt, and fixed income investments.

Consider setting up a SWP and investing in dividend-paying stocks.

Maintain an emergency fund and ensure adequate health insurance.

Review and adjust your financial plan regularly.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 07, 2024Hindi
Money
Namaste Sir, I am 42 year old with family of 5 .including my mother, 2 kids and wife Monthly Income is 1.75Lakhs Regular expenses are roughly 50K per month 2 Home loan Emis are 45 & 20k per month I have a corpus of about 30lakh in PF and ,5 lakh in mutual funds and would be availing a education loan . Please suggest how can I plan to have a retirement income of 80k to 1 lakh by age 55 I want to
Ans: You are 42 years old, and your family consists of five members: your mother, wife, and two kids. Your current monthly income is Rs. 1.75 lakh, and your regular expenses are Rs. 50,000 per month. You are paying two home loan EMIs: one of Rs. 45,000 and another of Rs. 20,000, totaling Rs. 65,000 per month.

You have a provident fund (PF) corpus of Rs. 30 lakh and Rs. 5 lakh invested in mutual funds. You are also considering taking an education loan for your children's future.

You aim to retire by age 55 and desire a monthly retirement income of Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 1 lakh. This is a realistic goal, but it will require disciplined planning and strategic investment.

Let’s break down each area for a comprehensive financial plan to help you achieve your retirement goal.

Home Loan Repayment Strategy
You currently have two home loan EMIs, which amount to Rs. 65,000 per month. Clearing these loans will significantly reduce your financial burden and free up cash flow for further investments.

Prioritise Loan Repayment: Since you have two home loans, focus on paying off the one with the higher interest rate first. If both rates are similar, start by repaying the smaller loan to reduce your monthly EMI burden faster.

Lump Sum Repayments: Whenever possible, make lump sum repayments toward the principal of your home loans. This will help you save on interest and clear the loans sooner.

Loan-Free Retirement: Aim to clear your home loans before retirement. Being debt-free will ensure that your retirement income is not affected by large EMIs.

Investment Growth for Retirement
You currently have Rs. 5 lakh in mutual funds and Rs. 30 lakh in your provident fund. To meet your goal of Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 1 lakh in monthly retirement income, you will need to significantly grow your investments over the next 13 years.

Increase Monthly SIPs: With Rs. 1.75 lakh in monthly income and Rs. 50,000 in expenses, you have a healthy surplus. After accounting for your home loan EMIs, you still have Rs. 60,000 per month available. Consider investing at least Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 in Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) every month. This disciplined approach will help you accumulate a sizable corpus over time.

Focus on Actively Managed Funds: Actively managed mutual funds offer the benefit of expert management, aiming to outperform the market. While index funds might seem attractive due to their low costs, they are not flexible enough to adapt to market changes. An actively managed fund, through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), can help you achieve higher returns over the long term, especially given your 13-year horizon.

Avoid Direct Funds: While direct funds might have a lower expense ratio, they don’t come with professional guidance. Investing through a CFP and a trusted Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) ensures that your portfolio is regularly reviewed and optimised. This professional support is crucial as you approach retirement, where every investment decision counts.

Provident Fund and Asset Allocation
Your Rs. 30 lakh in the provident fund is a great start toward building a retirement corpus. However, provident fund returns alone may not be sufficient to meet your goal of Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 1 lakh monthly income.

Diversification Is Key: While the provident fund provides safety and stable returns, it’s essential to diversify your portfolio. A higher allocation to equity through mutual funds can help you grow your corpus faster. Keep in mind that equity investments come with higher risks, but over a long-term period like 13 years, they also offer higher returns.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio: As you near retirement, you will need to gradually shift some of your equity investments to more stable debt funds. This will help protect your corpus from market volatility while still offering decent returns.

Planning for Your Children’s Education
You are planning to avail an education loan for your children’s higher studies, which is a sound strategy to manage immediate expenses without dipping into your retirement savings.

Education Loan as Leverage: Availing an education loan allows you to fund your children's education without using up your retirement savings. This ensures that your retirement planning stays on track while your children receive the education they need.

Continue SIPs: Even with an education loan, continue your SIP contributions. This will allow you to maintain a growing corpus while meeting education expenses through loan repayments.

Emergency Fund: Make sure to set aside an emergency fund that covers at least 6 months of living expenses. This will act as a financial cushion in case of unforeseen events, allowing you to meet both education loan EMIs and regular expenses without disrupting your long-term goals.

Retirement Income Planning
Your goal is to have a monthly retirement income of Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 1 lakh. Let’s assess how to achieve this target with a well-structured retirement corpus.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Post-retirement, you can use a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from your mutual fund corpus. This allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly while your remaining investments continue to grow. An SWP can be tailored to meet your monthly income needs while ensuring that your principal is not depleted quickly.

Pension-Like Income: With the right combination of debt and equity funds, your retirement corpus can generate a stable monthly income that acts like a pension. This will complement any other pension schemes or provident fund withdrawals.

Target Corpus: Given your desired retirement income, aim to build a retirement corpus that is large enough to generate Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 1 lakh per month. This can be achieved through consistent SIP contributions, provident fund growth, and strategic withdrawals post-retirement.

Health Insurance and Risk Management
With a family of five, including your mother and two children, adequate health insurance is essential to protect your finances from medical emergencies.

Adequate Health Insurance: Ensure that you have comprehensive health insurance that covers all family members. Medical costs are rising, and having a strong health insurance policy will prevent any major financial strain due to hospitalisation or treatment costs.

Life Insurance: It is also important to have adequate life insurance coverage, especially since you have ongoing liabilities like home loans. A term insurance plan with sufficient coverage will ensure that your family is financially secure in case of any unforeseen events.

Avoid Investment-Linked Insurance: If you hold any insurance policies that are linked to investments, such as endowment or ULIP policies, consider surrendering them. These plans generally offer lower returns compared to mutual funds. It’s better to reinvest the proceeds from these policies into your SIPs for better growth.

Emergency Fund and Contingency Planning
Having an emergency fund is crucial to safeguard your financial goals in case of unexpected expenses.

Building an Emergency Fund: Set aside an amount equivalent to at least 6 months of your regular expenses in a liquid fund or savings account. This fund should be easily accessible and used only for true emergencies, such as medical expenses or temporary income loss.

Avoid Over-Investing: While it is important to invest aggressively for your retirement, don’t neglect liquidity. Keeping a portion of your savings in easily accessible accounts ensures that you don’t have to redeem your mutual fund investments at a loss in case of emergencies.

Tax Efficiency in Investments
Maximising tax savings can help you increase your overall returns and protect more of your wealth.

Tax-Saving Mutual Funds: Consider investing in tax-saving mutual funds (ELSS) to reduce your tax liability. ELSS funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, along with the potential for higher returns compared to other tax-saving instruments.

Long-Term Capital Gains Management: Be mindful of the tax implications when redeeming your mutual fund investments. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) from equity mutual funds are taxable beyond a certain threshold, so it’s important to plan withdrawals strategically.

Estate Planning and Will
To ensure that your assets are passed on to your family without legal complications, it is important to have a clear estate plan in place.

Drafting a Will: Drafting a will is essential to specify how your assets will be distributed among your family members. Ensure that all your assets, including your house, provident fund, and mutual fund investments, are accounted for in your will.

Updating Nominations: Make sure that the nominations on your provident fund, mutual funds, and insurance policies are updated to reflect your wishes. This will ensure a smooth transfer of assets to your beneficiaries.

Final Insights
You are on the right track with your financial planning. With disciplined savings and strategic investments, you can achieve your retirement goal of Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 1 lakh monthly income.

Focus on repaying your home loans, increasing your SIP contributions, and diversifying your investments between equity and debt. Health insurance and a proper estate plan will further secure your financial future.

By following this well-rounded approach, you can look forward to a comfortable and financially secure retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 17, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 50 now and I want to retire at the age of 56 and my monthly expenditure is 40000PM and i have two daughters presently studying in 10th and 11th class. below mentioned financial situation please suggest me way forward on how can manage to retire or better my situation I have a 1Cr in Bank FD 12 lacs inequity ( invested 8lacs in 2021) PF as of today its accumulated to 25 lacs i am doing SIP worth rs6000 from2011 in different funds which is worth around 15 lacs now recently from feb2024 I stared doing 50000 thousands monthly SIP just last month i invested 12 lacs in hybrid mutual funds I had a house loan which is cleared now and besides this i have medical insurance which i pay 54000 for the complete family Per anum and Term insurance for which i pay 51000 PA
Ans: You are 50 years old, with a goal to retire at 56. Your monthly expenditure is Rs 40,000, and you have two daughters currently studying in 10th and 11th standards, who will require financial support for their education.

Your current financial assets include:

Rs 1 crore in Bank FD
Rs 12 lakhs in equity (invested Rs 8 lakhs in 2021)
Rs 25 lakhs accumulated in PF
Rs 15 lakhs in SIPs (since 2011)
Rs 50,000 monthly SIP (started from February 2024)
Rs 12 lakhs invested in hybrid mutual funds recently
Medical insurance costing Rs 54,000 PA for your family
Term insurance with an annual premium of Rs 51,000
House loan already cleared
I appreciate the strong foundation you have built with substantial savings and clear financial goals. Let's explore the way forward to optimise your retirement strategy and secure your financial future.

Step 1: Assessing Your Monthly Needs After Retirement
You need Rs 40,000 per month for your current expenses. However, this amount will likely increase due to inflation over the next six years until retirement. Let’s assume an inflation rate of 6%, which is typical in India. This means your monthly expenditure may rise to around Rs 57,000-60,000 by the time you retire.

Since you aim to retire in 6 years, the goal will be to create a financial plan that allows you to cover these rising expenses comfortably after retirement. We also need to consider the potential education expenses for your daughters in the near future, which will add another layer to your financial planning.

Step 2: Evaluating Your Current Investments
Bank FD (Rs 1 crore): While FDs offer safety, they have low returns. In the long run, they barely beat inflation. You should look at moving part of this into more growth-oriented options, like mutual funds, that can give you inflation-beating returns.

Equity Investments (Rs 12 lakhs): The equity market is an essential part of your portfolio, but given that you have invested Rs 8 lakhs in 2021, the returns may be volatile in the short term. However, staying invested in good-quality actively managed mutual funds can yield higher returns over time. Equity exposure is crucial to grow your wealth, especially given the inflationary pressures.

PF (Rs 25 lakhs): Provident Fund is a long-term wealth-building instrument with the benefit of compounding. It provides a decent rate of return and safety. This will form a significant part of your retirement corpus. You should continue contributing to this.

SIPs (Rs 15 lakhs and Rs 50,000/month): Your SIPs are excellent long-term wealth builders. Since you are already committed to Rs 50,000 monthly SIPs, you are on the right path to generating good returns. SIPs in actively managed equity mutual funds will help you stay ahead of inflation over time.

Hybrid Mutual Fund (Rs 12 lakhs): Hybrid funds offer a balanced mix of equity and debt, providing growth and stability. They can be useful as you approach retirement, but their equity exposure should be closely monitored.

Step 3: Optimising Insurance
Medical Insurance (Rs 54,000/year): You have medical insurance in place, which is essential for covering health-related risks. Ensure that the coverage is sufficient for your entire family. Given the rising healthcare costs, consider reviewing the sum assured and increasing it if needed.

Term Insurance (Rs 51,000/year): Term insurance is a cost-effective way to secure your family in case of unforeseen events. It’s good to have this in place. You may not need it post-retirement, so review it closer to retirement age.

Step 4: Prioritising Your Daughters' Education
Your daughters will soon enter college, and their higher education will be a significant financial commitment. It’s wise to set aside a portion of your investments to meet these expenses. Given their ages (10th and 11th standard), you can expect to incur these costs within the next 1-3 years. Consider earmarking part of your Bank FD or hybrid mutual fund investment for their education.

The Rs 1 crore FD could be partially redirected towards a safer option, like debt mutual funds or hybrid funds, to provide liquidity for education expenses without sacrificing growth entirely.

Step 5: Managing Post-Retirement Income
To ensure a steady flow of income post-retirement, let’s look at how your current portfolio can be structured to meet your monthly needs:

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Once you retire, you can set up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from your mutual fund investments to provide a regular income. This way, you can withdraw a fixed amount every month, while the remaining capital stays invested and continues to grow.

Balanced Portfolio: As you approach retirement, you should gradually reduce exposure to high-risk equity and shift to a balanced portfolio. A mix of 40% equity and 60% debt will give you stability and growth, ensuring that you meet your monthly expenses while still preserving your capital.

Continue with PF and SIP Contributions: Your Provident Fund and SIPs should remain untouched until retirement. Both provide long-term growth and tax benefits. Continue your SIPs as planned, and consider increasing the amount when possible to accelerate your retirement corpus.

Step 6: Plan for Rising Medical Costs
As you age, healthcare costs will likely increase. Ensure that your medical insurance coverage is adequate. Review the current policy and look for options to increase the coverage if needed. A good health insurance policy will prevent you from dipping into your retirement savings for medical emergencies.

Step 7: Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategy
Capital Gains Tax: When you withdraw from mutual funds, remember that equity mutual funds attract capital gains tax. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%. Plan your withdrawals strategically to minimise tax outgo.

Debt Fund Withdrawals: If you hold any debt funds, remember that both LTCG and STCG are taxed according to your income tax slab. Use these funds carefully to manage your tax liabilities post-retirement.

Step 8: Setting Up an Emergency Fund
It’s essential to keep some money aside as an emergency fund. This should cover at least 6-12 months of your monthly expenses. Since you have substantial assets, you can allocate part of your Bank FD towards this. The emergency fund should be liquid and easily accessible in case of unforeseen expenses.

Step 9: Reassess Your Risk Profile
At 50, your risk tolerance may be lower than when you were younger. However, to maintain your lifestyle after retirement, some equity exposure is necessary to beat inflation. Work on balancing your portfolio so that it reflects your need for both growth and stability. Actively managed funds, as opposed to index funds, will give you more flexibility and potentially higher returns.

Final Insights
You have built a strong financial base and are well on your way to a comfortable retirement. However, a few strategic adjustments will help optimise your portfolio and secure your financial future:

Increase your equity exposure slightly while balancing it with debt to ensure growth and stability.

Plan for your daughters’ education by earmarking some of your FD or hybrid fund investments.

Consider SWP for post-retirement income, and set up a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy.

Review your health insurance coverage to ensure it meets your future needs.

Stay disciplined with your SIPs and continue contributing towards your PF to build a robust retirement corpus.

By carefully managing your existing assets and planning ahead for both education and retirement, you can achieve financial independence and enjoy a secure post-retirement life.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |407 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 24, 2024Hindi
Relationship
How can an elder man attract young women
Ans: Attracting someone, regardless of age, begins with authenticity and mutual respect. If an older man is interested in forming a connection with a younger woman, it’s important to focus on qualities that foster meaningful relationships. Younger women are often drawn to the stability, confidence, and life experience that an older man can bring to the table, but the key lies in presenting these qualities without pretense or arrogance.

Confidence rooted in self-awareness and emotional maturity can be particularly appealing. This doesn’t mean showing off achievements or wealth, but rather displaying a genuine sense of self and clarity about what you want in life. Emotional maturity—expressed through kindness, patience, and good communication—creates a safe and engaging space for meaningful interactions.

Equally important is the ability to connect on a deeper level. Shared interests, respect for her individuality, and a willingness to engage with her worldview go a long way. Relationships thrive when both individuals feel valued and heard. An older man should approach a younger woman with curiosity about her experiences and aspirations, while also offering his perspective in a way that enriches the connection rather than dominating it.

It’s also crucial to approach such a dynamic with an understanding of potential societal perceptions. While age-gap relationships are increasingly accepted, they often come with assumptions or judgments. The foundation of a strong relationship in this context lies in ensuring that the connection feels equal, mutually respectful, and free of power imbalances.

Finally, maintaining physical and emotional health contributes to overall attractiveness. When a man prioritizes his wellbeing, it not only enhances his confidence but also signals that he values himself and his relationships. Attraction in any relationship is multifaceted, involving both external qualities and the inner richness of character.

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |407 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 22, 2024
Relationship
I was in a relationship with a boy(he is 35 yrs old man, and a lawyer but not practising in a court, he had a lot of relationship during our relationship and after break up , He had changed 4, 5 women or used them physically) for 3 years. It has been three-four months. We are not in a relationship. We have broken up. I told him to delete our personal pics and videos. He is not deleting them and is not blackmailing me either. I told him that since we don't want to be together, we don't have a future together, then delete them. He is not deleting them and is not blackmailing me either and I want him to delete them. Who knows what will come to his mind in the future and what will happen. If we don't continue, he has no right to Keep the pics in your mobile, whatever video is personal to us, don't delete it and don't blackmail me either. I am not able to understand what should I tell him, although I have requested him a lot to delete it but he is not doing it either, He told me that I have kept ur pics and videos So that I cannot complain against him in future. so what should I do, please guide me. I know I had made a huge mistake to love him and gave him right to keep personal pics or videos..
Ans: At this point, it’s essential to protect your emotional and mental health while addressing this issue. You might consider seeking support from someone you trust, such as a close friend or family member, to share this burden. Talking to someone who knows you and your situation can provide comfort and practical guidance.

If he continues to refuse, you may need to explore your legal options. Many countries have laws that protect individuals from having private photos or videos kept or shared without their consent. Taking this step might feel daunting, but it could give you a sense of empowerment and security. It’s not about revenge or escalation; it’s about protecting yourself and asserting your right to move forward without this hanging over you.

On an emotional level, remind yourself that you are not defined by this relationship or the choices you made while in it. You trusted someone who didn’t honor that trust, but this doesn’t diminish your value or strength. It’s natural to feel regret, but you deserve compassion from yourself as you work through this.

You’re not alone in this, and it’s okay to seek help—whether that’s legal advice, emotional support from loved ones, or even professional counseling to navigate the stress and anxiety this situation might be causing. The most important thing now is to take steps that protect your peace of mind and ensure your future isn’t weighed down by his actions.

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Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |687 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Nov 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 23, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hello Team, Hi Dev Sir, I am 43 years old employed. Here are my financial stats: Loan - 35 lacs Saving- 27 lacs 1 house bought in 2009 at rent (14000/month) and valued at 60 lacs Another house which I live is valued at 90 lacs Monthly income after tax - 2.5 lac Monthly expenses- 1 lac PF/gratuity - 16 lacs MF - 2 lacs NPS - 4 lacs What are my options to retire after 5 yrs with good corpus?
Ans: Hello;

What is your monthly contribution to EPF, NPS and MFs?

Please clarify so as to advise you suitably.

Thanks;

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |3918 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Nov 24, 2024

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Sir i am currently in class 11 th and i just want to prepare for jee mains and advanced 2026 exam so give me some roadmap to achieve and also guide me for computer science
Ans: Shreya, I trust that you have already enrolled in a coaching center, whether it be online or in person, and have finished your eleventh syllabus. (1) If you have not yet created your own short-notes for the 11th syllabus that has been completed, prepare it and continue to revise them every three days until 2026, even after you have commenced studying the 12th syllabus in December 2024. (2) Review the questions that you have incorrectly answered or skipped in mock tests conducted by your Coaching Center and/or practiced independently. (3) In order to increase your rank/percentile by targeting computer science at a reputable college/institute, prioritize mathematics (although all three subjects are equally important). (4) You should be thorough with NCERT books, particularly those pertaining to chemistry, in conjunction with the materials provided by your coaching institute. (5) Have 1-2 reference books for each subject. Not exceeding two. (6) Review the questions that were incorrectly answered or skipped in your mock and practice exams and retake the test. It is advisable to maintain a distinct note-book for these types of questions, which should include answers and elucidating notes, in order to review them repeatedly for all three subjects. (7) Download the SYLLABUS of JEE Main 2025 (available on Google by searching for "JEE Main Information Bulletin") and print it out, as there will be no significant changes to the syllabus in 2026. Maintain it on your study table and continue to update the 11th syllabus chapters and concepts that you have covered to date by marking them with a checkmark. This will boost your confidence if you continue to update the same till November 2025. (8) A slight difference in Syllabus might be visible when you acquire the 2026 JEE Main / JEE Advanced Syllabus. The same can be resolved within 15 days to one month in 2025-26. (9) Increase your productivity by studying for 45 minutes to 1 hour, taking a 10-minute break, and then continuing for 45 minutes. (10) Take a 2-3 minute break every 45 minutes while practicing questions, whether offline or online. This break should consist of closing your eyes and taking long breaths to enhance your concentration and mental capacity. (11) Additionally, it is recommended that you acquire the 20-40 PREVIOUS years question paper book of JEE (Main & Advanced) from Amazon. Arihant's, Disha's, or MTG's publications are recommended. Once you have finished reading a chapter, practice and complete it to determine the extent to which you have comprehended the concepts and to identify areas that require improvement. (12) By October 2025, ensure that you have reviewed significantly more than 90% of the previous years questions. Your confidence will be further bolstered by this. (13) After the mock test is completed at your coaching center, clarify all incorrectly answered or ignored questions and continue to revise and practice them, as these types of questions will significantly disrupt your performance in the actual JEE. (14) If you are a regular school student, inquire with your class teacher about the minimum attendance requirement as outlined in the Board's regulations (State, CBSE, ICSE, etc.). Utilize the remaining 15% by taking time off and preparing for your JEE, if only 85% attendance is required. (15) THE MOST IMPORTANT Value Added Suggestion: Rather than solely relying on JEE, please participate in 5-7 entrance exams/counseling process with a JEE score for getting admission into any one of the private engineering colleges to have a variety of options to select the most suitable one. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future.

To know more on ‘ Careers | Education | Jobs’, ask / follow Us here in RediffGURUS.

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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |1062 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Nov 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 23, 2024Hindi
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Career
My son graduated BE CSC with 8.9 CGP was offered a job as system engineer inTCS in April when he was in his 8th semister. Till November 23 he didn't get the on boarding letter, in the meantime whe appeared in two' exams under same offer. Advice what has been going on.
Ans: Hello.
Whatever you are saying is just shocking. The track record of TCS is not like that, as you described in your question. It would be better to contact TCS again and ask them when they will give on boarding letter. It is not clear from your query whether your son had done some correspondence with TCS or not related to the job offered. It is also not clear which two exams he appeared in. If not selected in a campus interview, searching for a job might be tedious but not so difficult. Ask your son to post a strong resume on the LinkedIn portal and remain in touch with his seniors. Please visit the websites of renowned companies daily to search for vacancies. There are many job-offering portals where he can register his name. Please ask the college placement division for any placement opportunities.
Wishing the best of luck for his bright future.

If satisfied, please like and follow me.
If dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

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T S Khurana

T S Khurana   |197 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Nov 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 11, 2024Hindi
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Money
Can you please suggest on capital gains as per Indian taxation laws arising in the below two queries : 1) property purchased with joint ownership, me and my wife’s name in 2015 at a cost of 64,80,000, housing improvements done for the cost of 1000000 and brokerages of 200000 paid and sold the same property at 10000000 in Dec 2023? 2) 87% of the proceeds got from the deal i.e 8700000, have been reinvested to pay 25% amount in purchasing another joint ownership property in Dec 2023, 3) I have invested in another under construction property in Nov 2023 by taking housing loan, which is on me and my wife’s name worth 1.4 cr, here the primary applicant is me only while wife is just made a Co applicant in the builder buyer agreement and also on the housing loan . So what are the LTCG tax liabilities arising from the above 3 scenarios for FY 2023-2024 and FY 2024-2025. I intend to sale off the property acquired in (2) by Dec 2024 and use that proceeds to close the housing loan for the property acquired in (3), will this sale of property be inviting any tax liabilities if the complete proceeds received from the sale of the property in (2) would be utilised to close the housing loan taken in Nov 2023 for the property in (3) ? Since in FY 23-24, I would be claiming the LTCG from the sale proceeds of 1) invested in the purchase of property in 2), and I intend to sale off this property in Dec 2024, will the LTCG claim be forfeited on the property sale in (1), should I hold this property at least for further 1 year so that sale of this property in 2) will not invite STCG?
Ans: (A). Let's first talk about F/Y 2023-24 :
You jointly sold a Property during the year for Rs.76.80 lakhs (64.80+10.00+2.00), & sold the same for Rs.100.00 lakhs.
You have jointly also purchased Property No.3 (I suppose it is Residential only), for Rs.140.00 lakhs.
You should avail exemption u/s-54 & file your ITR accordingly. Please disclose all details about sale & purchase in your ITR.
02. Now coming to the F/Y 2024-25 :
You intend to Sell Property No.2, which was acquired in 2023-24. Any Gain on Sale of it would be Short Term capital Gains & taxed accordingly.
Alternatively, you may hold this sale of property no.2 (for 2 years from its purchase) & avoid STCG
You are free to utilize the sale proceeds in a way you like, including paying off your housing Loan.
Please note to avail exemption u/s 54 only from investment in property no.3 & not 2.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.

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