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Should I close my home loan or invest the money in SIP?

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Oct 04, 2024

Milind Vadjikar is an independent MF distributor registered with Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and a retirement financial planning advisor registered with Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
He has a mechanical engineering degree from Government Engineering College, Sambhajinagar, and an MBA in international business from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.
With over 16 years of experience in stock investments, and over six year experience in investment guidance and support, he believes that balanced asset allocation and goal-focused disciplined investing is the key to achieving investor goals.... more
Amit Question by Amit on Oct 03, 2024Hindi
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I am 39 year old, having home loan outstanding amount of 20 lac . Time period is for 10 years. I am paying emi of 26000/ month for same. I have cash of 20lakh at present. Should I close home loan n invest emi amount in sip or continue paying emi. I m using old tax regime . I take benefit of 2 lakh interest for tax rebate.

Ans: Look at it from any perspective, it makes great practical sense to repay the loan now and convert the EMI into SIP.

The returns over 10 years will supercede tax benefit reinvested, handsomely.
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  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2024Hindi
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Iam 30 years old ,and i have an outstanding home loan of 30 lacs, iam earning 20 lacs a year tax free, I have invested in various mfs and my current value of assets are around 30 lacs, iam getting good returns on my investments (average rate of 18%), my question is should I close my loan or continue paying emi of 30k per month? .I have been advised to let my investments grow and keep paying the emis, i might get get married within 2 years and was thinking of becoming loan free before getting married.
Ans: Financial Decision: Pay Off Home Loan or Continue Investing?

At 30, with a tax-free annual income of 20 lacs and investments valued at 30 lacs, you're in a comfortable financial position. Let's analyze your options regarding your outstanding home loan of 30 lacs and whether to continue paying EMIs or close the loan:

Advantages of Continuing EMIs:

Investment Growth: Your investments are performing well with an average rate of return of 18%. By continuing to pay EMIs and letting your investments grow, you can potentially earn higher returns than the interest rate on your home loan.

Liquidity: By keeping your investments intact, you maintain liquidity and flexibility. This can be beneficial in case of any unforeseen expenses or investment opportunities.

Tax Benefits: Home loan EMIs come with tax benefits on both principal repayment and interest paid. By continuing to pay EMIs, you can avail of these tax deductions, reducing your overall tax liability.

Advantages of Closing the Loan:

Debt-Free Status: Paying off your home loan will give you peace of mind and a sense of financial freedom. Being debt-free can reduce stress and provide a strong financial foundation for future goals, including marriage.

Reduced Interest Burden: By closing the loan early, you save on the interest that would have accrued over the remaining loan tenure. This can result in significant savings in the long run.

Improved Credit Score: Being debt-free can positively impact your credit score, which is essential for future financial endeavors like applying for additional loans or credit cards.

Recommendation:

Considering your financial stability, investment performance, and the possibility of marriage within 2 years, it's advisable to prioritize becoming loan-free before tying the knot. Here's why:

Financial Freedom: Eliminating debt before marriage can reduce financial stress and allow you to focus on building a strong foundation for your future family.

Reduced Financial Obligations: Being debt-free gives you more flexibility in managing joint finances with your future spouse and planning for shared goals like buying a house or starting a family.

Long-Term Benefits: While your investments are performing well, becoming debt-free provides a guaranteed return in the form of interest savings and psychological peace of mind.

Final Thoughts:

Considering the advantages of being debt-free and your stable financial situation, it's recommended to prioritize paying off your home loan before getting married. Review your financial plan with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure it aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 24, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, I am Vitthal 39 Year old I have a monthly in hand salary of 67,000 INR. I have a Home Loan outstanding of Rs 27,00,000 and EMI on That Rs 24000 Rate of 9.15%, other expenses for 20,000. I Invest MF SIP 3000/Month, PPF 1000/month , NPS 30000/Yearly from Last Two years . Rest of above my monthly saving is rs 15 to 17K. Please advice Should i repay Home Loan or invest in MF SIP ?
Ans: Understanding Your Financial Situation
Hi Vitthal,

It's great to see your proactive approach towards financial planning. Managing a monthly salary of Rs 67,000 with various commitments shows your dedication. You have a home loan with a significant EMI, and you're investing in mutual funds (MF) through SIP, PPF, and NPS. Your savings of Rs 15,000 to 17,000 each month show good financial discipline.

Evaluating Loan Repayment Versus Investment
You face a common dilemma: should you repay your home loan faster or invest in mutual funds? Both options have their merits and understanding these will help you make an informed decision.

Home Loan Repayment: Pros and Cons
Pros of Repaying Home Loan
Reduced Interest Burden: Prepaying your loan reduces the total interest paid over time. This can be a significant saving.

Debt-Free Living: Being debt-free provides peace of mind and financial freedom. It reduces monthly financial commitments.

Guaranteed Returns: The interest saved by prepaying is a guaranteed return equivalent to your loan interest rate (9.15%).

Cons of Repaying Home Loan
Liquidity Crunch: Using excess savings to repay the loan may reduce your liquidity. Having cash available for emergencies is crucial.

Opportunity Cost: The potential returns from investments could be higher than the interest saved on loan repayment.

Investing in Mutual Funds: Pros and Cons
Pros of Investing in Mutual Funds
Potential Higher Returns: Mutual funds, especially actively managed ones, can offer higher returns compared to the interest rate on your home loan.

Compounding Effect: Long-term investments benefit from compounding, enhancing your wealth significantly over time.

Tax Benefits: Certain mutual funds provide tax benefits under Section 80C, optimizing your tax liability.

Cons of Investing in Mutual Funds
Market Risk: Mutual funds are subject to market risks. The returns are not guaranteed and can fluctuate based on market conditions.

Short-Term Volatility: Investments can be volatile in the short term, which might be concerning if you need funds urgently.

Detailed Analysis and Recommendation
Considering your scenario, let's weigh these options more analytically.

Loan Interest vs Investment Returns
Your home loan has an interest rate of 9.15%. To justify investing rather than repaying the loan, your investments should ideally yield higher than 9.15%. Actively managed mutual funds have historically provided returns that can potentially exceed this threshold. However, they come with risks.

Financial Goals and Risk Tolerance
Risk Appetite: Assess your risk tolerance. If you prefer stability and lower risk, prepaying the loan might suit you better. If you can handle market fluctuations, investing might be more beneficial.

Financial Goals: Define your financial goals. If you aim for wealth creation, investments can offer higher growth. If your priority is debt freedom, loan prepayment is better.

Liquidity and Emergency Funds
Maintaining liquidity is essential. Ensure you have an emergency fund covering at least 6 months of expenses. This ensures financial stability in unforeseen circumstances.

Structured Approach
Balanced Strategy: You could adopt a balanced strategy by allocating a portion of your savings towards prepayment and another portion towards investments. This balances debt reduction and wealth creation.

Regular Fund Investments: Investing in regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures professional management and guidance. They can help navigate market complexities and maximize returns.

Conclusion
Your financial health is commendable, and your savings discipline is impressive. A balanced approach, considering your risk tolerance and financial goals, is key. Whether you lean towards loan repayment or investment, ensure you maintain liquidity and have a clear strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 28, 2024

Money
Hi Sir, I am Vitthal 39 Year old I have a monthly in hand salary of 67,000 INR. I have a Home Loan outstanding of Rs 25,00,000 and EMI on That Rs 24000 Rate of 9.15%, other expenses for 20,000. I Invest MF SIP 3000/Month, PPF 1000/month , NPS 30000/Yearly from Last Two years . Rest of above my monthly saving is rs 15 to 17K. Please advice Should i repay Home Loan or invest in MF SIP ?
Ans: Your financial planning and savings strategy is noteworthy. You have managed to balance investments, expenses, and home loan repayments effectively. A Rs 15,000-17,000 surplus after expenses, despite existing commitments, reflects disciplined financial habits.

Let us evaluate whether it is better to repay your home loan or increase SIP investments. This analysis will focus on long-term financial benefits and risk management.

Key Considerations for Decision-Making
1. Home Loan Analysis
Interest Rate Impact: Your home loan has a 9.15% interest rate. This is moderately high compared to historical averages for home loans. The effective cost of the loan after considering tax benefits under Section 24(b) can be slightly lower, especially if you're in the 20% or 30% tax bracket.

EMI and Liquidity: Your Rs 24,000 EMI is manageable, given your Rs 67,000 monthly income. However, prepaying the loan reduces future interest payments, providing risk-free savings.

Tenure and Interest Outflow: If you prepay, the loan tenure reduces, leading to significant interest savings. Prepayment offers a guaranteed return equivalent to the loan interest rate, adjusted for tax benefits.

2. SIP Investments
Higher Returns Potential: Equity mutual funds typically deliver higher returns (10-12%) over the long term. This can outperform the cost of your loan, even after factoring in taxation on capital gains.

Market Risks: SIPs in equity mutual funds involve market risks. Short-term volatility may impact returns, but long-term investments generally stabilize and grow wealth.

Flexibility and Growth: SIPs allow compounding of returns and disciplined investing. Continuing SIPs ensures you take advantage of market ups and downs for rupee cost averaging.

Comparison: Prepay vs Invest
Advantages of Prepaying the Home Loan
Guaranteed savings on interest payments.
Reduction in financial liability.
Increased peace of mind with lower debt.
Advantages of Investing in SIPs
Higher wealth creation over the long term.
Greater liquidity compared to prepaying a loan.
Helps in building a diversified investment portfolio.
Tax Implications
Home Loan: The interest component qualifies for deductions up to Rs 2 lakh under Section 24(b). This effectively reduces the net cost of the loan, depending on your tax slab.

Mutual Funds: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) on equity mutual funds above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%. Debt fund gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Comparing the post-tax cost of your loan and post-tax returns on investments helps make a balanced decision.

Strategic Approach: A Balanced Plan
Instead of focusing on just one option, consider splitting your surplus between prepaying the loan and investing in SIPs. Here’s how:

1. Continue Existing SIPs and Investments
Your Rs 3,000 SIP, Rs 1,000 PPF, and Rs 30,000 yearly NPS investments are excellent.
These create a diversified portfolio for long-term goals and retirement planning.
2. Allocate Surplus Wisely
Use Rs 10,000-12,000 from your monthly savings to prepay the home loan. This helps reduce interest outflow significantly over time.
Direct the remaining Rs 5,000-7,000 to increase SIPs in equity mutual funds. This ensures you benefit from market growth.
3. Emergency Fund
Maintain at least six months' worth of expenses, including EMI, in a liquid fund or savings account. This ensures you can handle emergencies without financial stress.
4. Tax Planning
Claim maximum deductions available on the home loan.
Evaluate LTCG tax implications when redeeming mutual fund investments in the future.
Benefits of a Balanced Plan
Reduces debt gradually while maintaining liquidity.
Balances risk between fixed returns (loan repayment) and market returns (SIP investments).
Builds a safety net for emergencies while growing wealth.
Points to Monitor Regularly
1. Interest Rate Trends
Keep an eye on your home loan interest rate. If rates rise, consider increasing prepayment amounts.
2. Investment Performance
Periodically review your mutual fund portfolio. Ensure funds align with your goals and risk profile.
3. Tax Changes
Stay updated on tax rules for home loans and investments. This can influence the financial benefits of each option.
4. Financial Goals
Assess your financial goals every year. Adjust investments and repayment strategies accordingly.
Final Insights
Your current financial strategy reflects strong discipline and foresight. By balancing home loan prepayments with increased SIP investments, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—reduced debt burden and wealth creation.

This approach ensures you are financially secure while building a robust portfolio for future goals. Keep monitoring your financial health and make adjustments as needed.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 19, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hi sir, I am 31 years old, my monthly salary is 70 thousand. I have a existing home loan around 1986000 with ROI 9.25% for 29years. and till now through SIP I have invested 5 Lac and I keep liquid fund 2.5 Lac. My current balance including all SIP and liquid fund 9 Lac. I need a advise from you that I should repay my home with this 9 Lac or I should continue investing as SIP and continue EMI and repay homeloan as 1 or 2 EMI Extra in a year.
Ans: At 31, you have a strong financial foundation. Your disciplined SIP investments, liquid funds, and home loan management are appreciable. Let’s assess your options to help you make the best decision.

Analysing Your Current Financial Situation
Existing Home Loan
Your outstanding home loan of Rs 19.86 lakhs has a tenure of 29 years.
The interest rate is 9.25%, which impacts your long-term cash flow.
The EMI will consume a consistent portion of your salary over the years.
SIP Investments
You have already invested Rs 5 lakhs through SIPs.
Regular investments in SIPs help in wealth accumulation and compounding returns.
Your monthly SIPs are likely aligned with your financial goals.
Liquid Funds
You hold Rs 2.5 lakhs in liquid funds.
This provides a buffer for emergencies or short-term needs.
Options to Consider
Option 1: Use Rs 9 Lakhs to Prepay the Loan
Prepaying the loan can reduce the principal significantly.
This reduces the overall interest burden and loan tenure.
However, this locks your funds into a low-return liability.
Option 2: Continue SIPs and Pay Extra EMIs Annually
Continue your SIP investments for higher long-term returns.
Paying 1–2 extra EMIs yearly can reduce the tenure significantly.
This approach balances wealth creation and liability management.
Option 3: Split Funds Between Prepayment and Investments
Use a portion of Rs 9 lakhs for partial prepayment.
Invest the remaining amount in SIPs or other high-return instruments.
This ensures debt reduction and continued wealth growth.
Evaluating Return on Investment
Home Loan Interest vs SIP Returns
Your home loan interest rate of 9.25% is a guaranteed expense.
Equity SIPs typically yield higher returns, averaging 12–15% annually.
Investing in SIPs could create wealth faster than prepaying the loan.
Tax Benefits on Home Loan
You may claim tax deductions on home loan interest and principal.
Prepaying reduces the tax-saving benefits.
Recommended Approach
Maintain Emergency Liquidity
Retain Rs 2.5 lakhs or more in liquid funds.
This ensures financial stability during unforeseen situations.
Focus on SIP Investments
Continue SIPs to benefit from long-term compounding.
Increase your SIP contributions gradually with salary increments.
Make Partial Prepayments
Use a portion of Rs 9 lakhs for partial prepayment.
Aim to reduce the principal significantly to lower interest outflows.
Pay Extra EMIs
Commit to paying at least 2 extra EMIs annually.
This reduces your loan tenure and interest burden effectively.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
Do Not Over-Allocate to Loan Prepayment
Avoid locking all your funds into loan repayment.
This limits your liquidity and investment potential.
Avoid Real Estate Investments
Real estate involves high costs, illiquidity, and uncertain returns.
Stick to diversified mutual funds or equity investments instead.
Maintain Disciplined Financial Planning
Ensure a balanced approach between debt reduction and wealth creation.
Review your financial goals annually for necessary adjustments.
Final Insights
Your financial journey is off to a great start. Continue with SIP investments to maximise long-term growth. Use surplus funds for partial loan prepayments and extra EMIs to manage your debt efficiently. Balancing both strategies will ensure a secure financial future and help you achieve your goals effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1735 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 11, 2025Hindi
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Dear madam I have this suitaution in my life. Plz do guide me with this. So i have 2 married sisters and a brother with who i dont get along well. We used to be close back then. Later on my father passed away and then i got busy searching work. After getting work i got carried away with my newly found friendship with a boy i started spending much on him rather then my family. But still then i never neglected my family every kind of help i tried to give them. In the meanwhile i used to take care of my bedridden grandmother who used to stay in another state. Then my second sister started feeding everyone's mind against me saying i dont help them with money and i spend most on my grandmother and cousin. Though my sister were earning well still they waited me to spend on them which i stopped by then as they were earning. And there used to be a real good fight with my sisters and me regarding money issue and als my marriage thing and i gave them bitter words and also curses which i regret to this day thinking how could i do hated thing to my family .In next few years my sister got married but my second sister never invited me for her marriage and did all her wedding plans in my absence and i als never attended her wedding. I attended my 3rd sister wedding. After that my second sister plotted a plan against me by taking everyone on her side and kept me out of all the family functions. I just ignored them and decided to never to get bothered by any of this. Now the problem my 3rd sister is pregnant and they have planned a babyshower and like they are just telling me to attend it. To be honest they just told me a day before the function. How to handle this. Should i attend? And how to deal with such kind of people they seem to take advantage of my helpless. Please guide me on how to become a strong girl while taking desicion.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Learn the skill of staying away from all this drama. If you felt secure with who you are, you wouldn't think much whether you got invited or not. Do remember, people will be on your side sometimes and not on your side at other times. This goes for friends are family; so learn to be comfortable with that...
What you did for your grandmother is a choice that you made; why expect anything in return?
Life lived with least expectations is certainly a happier life...counting what people did or didn't do will take away your peace!
Real strength is not in fighting it out but knowing when to walk away from constant drama.

All the best!
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Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1735 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 18, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Money
Dear Sir, What is the best % of SWP one can think of from Portfolio value. I am retired now and have say 1 Cr as MF and Share portfolio. I want to go for 40000 SWP per month thereby making 4.8% as SWP. If this is good to have this for 15 yrs
Ans: Your question shows great care for your financial future. Many retirees ignore this step. You have already taken a wise move. You want steady income. You want safety. You want long life for your money. These are very important points. I truly appreciate your clarity.

» Understanding your present plan
Your idea is simple. You have Rs 1 crore. You want Rs 40000 each month. This means Rs 4.8 lakh each year. That is 4.8 percent of your money. This is not very high. This is not very low. It sits in the middle range. Many retirees try for 7 or 8 percent. That can put pressure on the portfolio. Your 4.8 percent is more reasonable. It supports discipline. It keeps stress low.

Your idea is for 15 years. That is a good time frame. It gives space for your funds to grow. It gives time for market cycles. It also gives time for inflation adjustments.

» Why withdrawal rate matters
Your SWP rate decides how long your money will last. A high rate can drain funds soon. A very low rate may not support your monthly needs. Your 4.8 percent sits well. It balances life needs and portfolio health.

When you draw money from a mixed portfolio, the growth side helps refill your withdrawn money. The stability side helps reduce fall during bad years. This mix helps the SWP stay steady.

» Why a proper structure is important
A SWP is not only a monthly withdrawal. It is a full system. The system needs planning. It needs regular reviews. It needs a clear asset split. It needs a cushion for weak market years.

If you set this structure well now, your SWP can stay safe. Your money can stretch for many years. You can keep peace of mind.

» The importance of a balanced mix
Your portfolio may hold equity funds, hybrid funds, and debt funds. A clear mix reduces risk. It gives smooth cash flow. Equity gives growth. Debt gives steady flow. Hybrid gives balance.

Because you want monthly income for 15 years, you need a balance that supports steady SWP. A pure equity plan can shake too much. A pure debt plan may not grow at a good pace. A balanced mix is ideal.

» Equity funds need careful use
Some investors put large money in equity for SWP. This can work in strong markets. This can fail in weak markets. Your SWP must survive both market moods. That is why pure equity for SWP is not safe.

Also, you should prefer actively managed funds over index funds for long SWP. Index funds follow the index blindly. They do not manage risk actively. They cannot adjust to market cycles. Actively managed funds have a professional fund manager. A skilled manager helps in limiting risk in low years. This helps protect principal in SWP years. This support is not present in index funds.

» Debt funds form the stabiliser
Debt funds bring peace to the portfolio. They help during bad market years. They help the SWP stay steady. Because debt funds follow market rates, they work as the anchor. For SWP, this anchor is very helpful.

If you use direct debt funds, you must remember that direct funds need more tracking. They need active reviews by you. Many retired investors find this hard. Regular plans taken through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill provide guidance. Regular plans also give handholding. This handholding helps avoid wrong exits.

» How to view your Rs 40000 monthly need
You may need some money for basic needs. You may need some money for health care. You may need some money for family support. You may need some money for personal comfort. Rs 40000 per month seems a balanced number.

It does not put too much pressure on the money. It is not a very heavy load. It fits well with a Rs 1 crore fund.

» Inflation needs attention
Inflation will rise. Costs will rise. Your need will rise. Your SWP should rise slowly over time. You cannot fix your SWP for 15 years at one number. That may reduce your buying power.

A small rise every two or three years will help you beat inflation. This rise must be slow. It must match your portfolio growth.

» Risk of sharp market falls
Sharp falls can disturb SWP. A sudden big drop in equity value can pull down your portfolio. This may cause you to withdraw when market is low. That is not good. To fix this, you need enough stability in your mix.

A proper allocation in debt funds and hybrid funds can reduce this issue. You will get smoother cash flow. You will not have to worry about market news every day.

» Role of emergency money
Please keep an emergency amount. Keep this aside. Do not include it in your SWP plan. You may need money for urgent health needs. You may need money for home needs. Emergency funds help you avoid sudden selling.

A good emergency fund gives peace. It protects your SWP from sudden shocks.

» Tax rules for withdrawals
Every SWP withdrawal may include some gains. Tax will apply based on the type of fund and the gain period. This tax can have impact on net flow. You must plan for this in your withdrawal design.

Equity fund rules:

Gains under one year are short-term. These are taxed at 20 percent.

Gains above one year are long-term. Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5 percent.

Debt fund rules:

Both short-term and long-term gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

This tax part should not scare you. A proper plan can reduce the tax burden. A planned SWP can help you manage gains carefully.

» Why a Certified Financial Planner helps
You may handle small things by yourself. But retirement planning is delicate. One wrong move can disturb the whole plan. A Certified Financial Planner gives a clear road map. He helps you set the best mix. He reviews the plan every year. He adjusts the plan for market and life events.

This guidance is very useful in SWP because SWP needs discipline.

» Why not consider real estate
Some retirees think of using real estate for income. But real estate needs heavy work. It needs tenant work. It needs repair work. It needs legal care. It gives lumpy income. It gives no steady flow. So it is not fit for SWP planning.

Your present goal is steady income. Real estate will not give this.

» Why not consider annuities
Annuities give fixed income. But they lock your money. They give low returns. They do not beat inflation well. They reduce flexibility. For these reasons, they are not ideal for your long-term income.

Your idea of SWP with balanced mix is better.

» Keeping your portfolio healthy for 15 years
To keep your portfolio safe for 15 years, you must follow some habits:

Review every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Adjust asset mix if needed.

Increase SWP amount slowly.

Reduce SWP for one or two years if markets fall very deep.

Protect your money from emotional moves.

Keep a two-year buffer in a low-risk fund.

Keep your growth part running for long.

These habits help your money last for the full 15-year horizon.

» Regular review helps you adapt
Markets will change. Your health may change. Your needs may change. A yearly review will help align your plan. It will help spot issues early. It will help guide the next year’s SWP.

Without reviews, even good plans can fail.

» Why a two-year cushion helps
A cushion fund is a simple idea. Keep two years of SWP in a low-risk debt fund. This money helps you draw income even in bad market years. You will not need to sell equity in weak phases. This protects your overall money. This makes your SWP more stable.

This cushion fund is an extra shield. It supports your 15-year income plan.

» Role of diversification
Your SWP works best when your portfolio is spread well. A spread can include:

Actively managed equity funds.

Hybrid funds.

Debt funds.

This spread reduces risk. It gives smoothness. It supports long-term income.

Avoid using too many funds. Keep it simple. A small number of quality funds is better.

» How your 4.8 percent looks in practice
A 4.8 percent withdrawal rate is comfortable for a 15-year horizon. If you follow discipline, your money will not face heavy pressure. If your portfolio grows at a steady pace, your principal will not erode fast. Even if growth shifts between years, the mixed structure will protect you.

Your plan is workable. It is sensible. It is future-friendly.

» Mistakes to avoid
Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

Do not chase high-return funds.

Do not raise SWP sharply in one year.

Do not keep too much money in equity.

Do not stop reviews.

Do not shift funds often without reason.

Do not look at direct plans if you prefer guidance.

These mistakes can disturb your portfolio health. Your SWP may suffer.

» Why not use direct funds if you need support
Direct plans give lower cost. But they give no guidance. Retired investors often need guidance. They need reviews. They need discipline. A regular plan through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill gives support. It prevents panic reactions. This support is valuable in low market years.

» Healthy mindset for SWP
Try to see your SWP as a long journey. It needs calm mind. It needs steady steps. It needs slow corrections. It needs patience. If you stay steady, your SWP will stay healthy. You will enjoy peace.

» Practical steps you can start now
You may start with these steps:

Set clear needs for each year.

Fix a proper asset split.

Create a cushion fund for two years.

Start SWP from a low-risk fund or hybrid fund.

Keep equity for growth.

Add small hikes in SWP every few years.

This system supports long-term income.

» How your plan supports a joyful retired life
Your plan helps you live with comfort. It gives predictable cash flow. It gives you freedom from worry. It gives you clarity. You can focus on health, family, and peace. You do not need to watch markets each day.

Your retirement life becomes balanced.

» Final Insights
Your idea of taking Rs 40000 per month from a Rs 1 crore portfolio at 4.8 percent is workable. It fits well for a 15-year horizon. It supports your income. It protects your money if you set a balanced mix. You must follow steady reviews. You must keep a small cushion. You must avoid risky moves.

With these practices, your SWP plan can stay healthy for many years. Your future can stay peaceful and steady. You have already taken the right first step. Your clarity gives your plan strong power.

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

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

...Read more

Dr Nagarajan J S K

Dr Nagarajan J S K   |2567 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 17, 2025Hindi
Career
Is it worthwhile being an mbbs only doctor in India or is pg necessary as somebody who cannot toil 24-36 hours (as is the case with hospital duties) and is not well adequate for working under somebody and then do you still have to study after mbbs to level up or will you be contented with just mbbs. Pls don't answer objectively i really need to see the real picture
Ans: Hi Dr.
Recently, I've seen many different comments on social media suggesting that finding a job after completing an MBBS is very difficult, with some graduates even working as delivery boys.

I believe MBBS is one of the few courses that allows for immediate entrepreneurship after graduation, while other fields often require additional support to start a business. Many medical shop owners are willing to provide a small space for consultations, which is not typically an option for graduates in other disciplines.

If you are financially constrained, it may be wise to stop after completing your MBBS degree for the time being. However, pursuing a postgraduate degree (PG) significantly increases your opportunities, including potential roles in the pharmaceutical industry. Without a PG, your options may be limited. It's akin to the difference between a normal grocery store and a supermarket: completing a PG can lead to positions in corporate medical hospitals.

Initially, you might consider working at a smaller practice or in the government sector before pursuing higher education. While having an MBBS degree allows you to offer consultations, having a PG provides you with more credibility and knowledge. Understand your strengths and weaknesses, and don’t worry about others—proceed based on your own abilities and circumstances.
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