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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 07, 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 - Jun 03, 2024Hindi
Money

I am 41 year old and have paper assets of Rs.80 lacs and housing loan of Rs.40 lacs. My net post-tax monthly income is Rs.2 lacs and I invest Rs.1 lacs of it in mutual fund (SIP). I stay in Pune (India), am married and plan to have no kids in future. I run the household expenses. I would like to retire in next 10 years. Will the current financial trajectory help me achieve financial independence? Or do I have to supplement it with some side income?

Ans: Achieving financial independence and planning for early retirement at 51 is a commendable goal. With careful planning, disciplined saving, and smart investing, it's certainly within reach. Let’s analyze your current financial situation and develop a strategy to ensure you achieve your goals.

Current Financial Snapshot

Income and Expenses:

Your net post-tax monthly income is Rs. 2 lakhs.
You invest Rs. 1 lakh monthly in mutual funds through SIP.
You run the household expenses with the remaining Rs. 1 lakh.
Assets and Liabilities:

Paper assets worth Rs. 80 lakhs.
Housing loan of Rs. 40 lakhs.
Financial Goals and Timeline

Target Retirement Age:

You plan to retire at 51, which gives you a 10-year window.
Desired Corpus:

Calculate the corpus required to sustain your lifestyle post-retirement.
Consider factors such as inflation, healthcare costs, and life expectancy.
Assessment of Current Investments

SIP in Mutual Funds:

Investing Rs. 1 lakh monthly in SIPs is a strong strategy.
Over 10 years, assuming an average annual return of 12%, this could grow substantially.
Growth Projection:

Use a financial calculator to estimate future value of your SIP investments.
Rs. 1 lakh per month for 10 years at 12% annual return can grow to approximately Rs. 2.3 crores.
Evaluating Existing Debt

Housing Loan:

Outstanding loan of Rs. 40 lakhs.
Assess the interest rate and tenure of the loan.
Consider prepaying the loan to reduce interest burden.
Debt Repayment Strategy:

Allocate a portion of your monthly savings to prepay the loan.
Aim to be debt-free by retirement.
Additional Investment Strategies

Diversification:

Diversify investments across various asset classes.
Include equity mutual funds, debt funds, and balanced funds.
Equity Mutual Funds:

Focus on actively managed equity funds for higher returns.
Diversify across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Debt Funds:

Invest in debt funds for stability and lower risk.
Consider a mix of short-term and long-term debt funds.
Public Provident Fund (PPF):

PPF offers tax-free returns and is a safe investment.
Invest the maximum permissible amount annually.
Tax Planning and Efficiency

Tax-Saving Investments:

Maximize investments in ELSS for tax benefits under Section 80C.
Utilize the Rs. 1.5 lakh limit for tax deductions.
Health Insurance:

Invest in health insurance for additional tax benefits under Section 80D.
Secure your family's health and save on taxes.
Emergency Fund and Contingency Planning

Emergency Fund:

Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to 6 months of expenses.
This ensures liquidity without disturbing long-term investments.
Contingency Planning:

Plan for unforeseen events like job loss or medical emergencies.
Keep a portion of your investments easily accessible.
Reviewing Insurance Policies

Term Insurance:

Ensure you have adequate term insurance coverage.
Term plans offer high coverage at low premiums.
Evaluating Existing Policies:

Review any existing LIC, ULIP, or endowment policies.
Consider surrendering low-yield policies and reinvesting in higher-return options.
Supplementing with Side Income

Additional Income Streams:

Explore opportunities for additional income to boost savings.
Consider part-time work, freelancing, or passive income sources.
Passive Income:

Invest in assets that generate passive income.
This could include dividends from stocks or interest from bonds.
Retirement Corpus Calculation

Estimating Required Corpus:

Calculate the corpus needed based on current expenses and inflation.
Consider a conservative estimate for post-retirement expenses.
Retirement Planning Tools:

Use retirement calculators to estimate the required corpus.
Factor in inflation, healthcare costs, and lifestyle changes.
Regular Portfolio Review and Rebalancing

Periodic Review:

Review your investment portfolio every six months.
Adjust allocations based on market performance and financial goals.
Rebalancing Portfolio:

Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation.
Sell over-performing assets and reinvest in under-performing ones.
Long-Term Investment Horizon

Power of Compounding:

Start investing immediately to leverage compounding.
Even small amounts grow significantly over time.
Staying Invested:

Avoid withdrawing investments prematurely.
Stay invested through market fluctuations for long-term growth.
Financial Discipline and Consistency

Automated Investments:

Set up automated transfers to your investment accounts.
Ensure consistency in your savings and investments.
Avoiding Unnecessary Expenditures:

Practice financial discipline by avoiding impulsive spending.
Prioritize saving and investing over luxury expenses.
Educating Yourself on Financial Planning

Continuous Learning:

Stay updated with financial news and market trends.
Read books, attend webinars, and follow financial blogs.
Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP):

Seek professional advice for personalized financial strategies.
A CFP can provide tailored plans and help optimize your investments.
Final Insights

Achieving financial independence and planning for early retirement at 51 is possible with disciplined planning and strategic investments. Start by understanding your current financial situation, balancing your home loan with investments, and creating a diversified portfolio. Prioritize tax-efficient investments and ensure adequate insurance coverage. Maintain an emergency fund, regularly review your portfolio, and stay consistent with your investments. Consider additional income streams and continuously educate yourself on financial planning. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice and help you achieve your financial goals. With dedication and smart strategies, you can secure a prosperous future.

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  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

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I am 24 years old and i am investing 50k per month in NPS Tier 2 account for liquidity and retirement. I have 26 lakhs in NPS in 100% equities and 6 lakhs in PF. Can you let me know if i can attain financial independence at the age of 30 if my monthly expenses at current prices are 60k?
Ans: Assessing Your Path to Financial Independence at 30
Understanding Your Current Financial Strategy
At 24, you're taking proactive steps towards financial independence by investing 50k per month in the NPS Tier 2 account, focusing on liquidity and retirement planning. Your allocation of 26 lakhs in NPS equities and 6 lakhs in PF demonstrates a balanced approach to wealth accumulation.

Evaluating Financial Independence Goals
Aspiring to achieve financial independence by the age of 30 is ambitious and commendable. However, it's essential to assess the feasibility of this goal based on your current financial situation, investment strategy, and monthly expenses.

Analyzing Investment Vehicles
NPS Tier 2 provides liquidity benefits while NPS Tier 1 offers long-term retirement savings. Your equity-heavy allocation in NPS and PF investments can potentially generate higher returns but carries market risk.

Assessing Monthly Expenses
With current monthly expenses at 60k, achieving financial independence by 30 requires careful planning and budgeting. Evaluate your expenses to identify areas where you can optimize and reduce costs to accelerate wealth accumulation.

Projecting Investment Growth
Estimate the potential growth of your NPS and PF investments based on historical returns and market projections. Consider factors such as inflation, taxation, and investment fees to determine the real rate of return on your investments.

Considering Income Growth
Assess your career prospects and potential for income growth over the next six years. Increasing your income can significantly impact your ability to achieve financial independence by providing additional savings capacity.

Mitigating Risks
While investing aggressively in equities can yield high returns, it also entails market volatility and risk. Diversify your investment portfolio across asset classes to reduce risk and enhance long-term stability.

Seeking Professional Guidance
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to evaluate your financial plan and determine the feasibility of achieving financial independence by 30. A CFP can provide personalized recommendations and strategies to optimize your investment approach.

Conclusion
Achieving financial independence by the age of 30 is a challenging but achievable goal with careful planning, disciplined investing, and prudent financial management. By evaluating your current financial strategy, optimizing expenses, and seeking professional guidance, you can work towards realizing your aspirations of financial independence.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 22, 2024

Money
Hello, i am 37 and my wife 36. We earn monthly 3lacs. We dont have any liabilities. Home loan is cleared couple of years back. Have 3bhk where we reside, 2bhk rented out with 17k per month rental income and we have houses from both of our parents. We have 10lacs in FDs for emergency, 15 lacs in mutual funds (with monthly SIP of 1.5lacs), PPF 16lacs (monthly 25k), NPS started few years back with around 5lacs (10%of basic monthly 17-18k), PF Accumulation around 30lacs, lic premiums of around 56k annually, my term insurance of around 1.3cr, my wife's term insurance of 60lacs, enough health insurance covers from both of our companies, 7-8lacs in gold. Could you pls guide us if we want to be financially independent in next 15 years?
Ans: Your current financial standing is quite strong. At 37 and 36 years old, both you and your wife have done well in managing your finances.

You have no liabilities, with your home loan cleared and multiple properties providing you with rental income. You also have a substantial emergency fund in fixed deposits, significant investments in mutual funds, provident funds, and gold. Your insurance coverage is comprehensive, with term insurance for both of you, and health insurance provided by your employers. These factors set a solid foundation for your future financial independence.

Evaluating Your Financial Goals
Your goal is to achieve financial independence in the next 15 years. This goal is ambitious but attainable, given your current financial situation and disciplined approach to saving and investing.

To evaluate your progress toward financial independence, we will assess your current investments, savings rate, and expected future returns. We will also consider your expenses and lifestyle expectations post-retirement.

Assessing Your Current Investments
Emergency Fund: You have Rs 10 lakhs in fixed deposits, which is a prudent move. This amount is sufficient to cover around 4-6 months of expenses, ensuring financial stability during unexpected situations.

Mutual Funds: With Rs 15 lakhs already invested and a monthly SIP of Rs 1.5 lakhs, your mutual fund investments are on track. This approach is excellent for long-term wealth creation.

PPF and NPS: Your PPF balance of Rs 16 lakhs and a monthly contribution of Rs 25,000 add up to a substantial corpus over time. The NPS balance of Rs 5 lakhs will also grow significantly with regular contributions.

Provident Fund: Your PF accumulation of Rs 30 lakhs is a strong foundation for your retirement corpus.

Gold: With 7-8 lakhs invested in gold, you have diversified your portfolio well, although gold should be viewed as a hedge rather than a primary investment.

Insurance: Your term insurance coverage is adequate, with Rs 1.3 crores for you and Rs 60 lakhs for your wife. LIC premiums of Rs 56,000 annually indicate that you have some traditional insurance policies, which may not be the best for wealth creation but provide a safety net.

Identifying Gaps and Opportunities
Although you are in a strong position, there are areas where you can optimize your investments to reach your goal of financial independence in 15 years.

Optimizing Your Mutual Fund Investments
Your current SIP of Rs 1.5 lakhs per month is commendable. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your mutual fund portfolio is well-diversified across various asset classes such as equity, debt, and hybrid funds.

Given your long-term goal, focusing more on equity mutual funds could provide the growth needed to achieve substantial wealth. It is also wise to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Reviewing Your PPF and NPS Contributions
Your PPF contributions are disciplined, and this is a safe, tax-efficient investment. However, given the long lock-in period, ensure that you have enough liquidity outside of PPF for other investment opportunities.

Your NPS contributions, while beneficial for retirement, should be balanced with the need for flexibility. NPS offers a good mix of equity and debt, but it comes with restrictions on withdrawal before retirement. Ensure that your overall investment portfolio is not overly restricted by such instruments.

Reassessing Gold Investments
While gold serves as a good hedge against inflation, it is not a high-growth asset. Ensure that your gold investments do not constitute too large a portion of your portfolio. Ideally, it should be around 5-10% of your total assets. This allows you to benefit from the safety of gold without sacrificing potential returns from other investments.

Evaluating Your Insurance Policies
Your term insurance coverage is robust, which is essential. However, if the LIC policies you hold are traditional endowment or money-back plans, you may want to reconsider them. These policies often have low returns compared to mutual funds. If feasible, you could consider surrendering them and redirecting the premiums into higher-yielding investments like mutual funds. However, this should be done only after evaluating any surrender charges and the impact on your overall financial plan.

Planning for Financial Independence
Achieving financial independence in the next 15 years requires careful planning and disciplined execution. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Determine Your Retirement Corpus
To achieve financial independence, you need to estimate the corpus required to sustain your lifestyle post-retirement. Consider your current expenses, inflation, and life expectancy. A rough estimate would be to accumulate at least 25-30 times your annual expenses as your retirement corpus. This amount should be sufficient to generate a sustainable income through systematic withdrawal plans (SWPs) or other income-generating assets.

2. Enhance Your Savings and Investments
Given your current income of Rs 3 lakhs per month, you can consider increasing your savings rate. You are already saving and investing a substantial amount, but if you can allocate more towards investments, it will significantly accelerate your path to financial independence.

Increase SIP Contributions: Gradually increase your SIP contributions as your income grows. This will ensure that your investments keep pace with inflation and provide the necessary growth to achieve your financial goals.

Diversify Across Asset Classes: While equity mutual funds are essential for growth, consider adding some debt funds to your portfolio to balance risk. Hybrid funds can also offer a mix of stability and growth.

3. Monitor and Rebalance Your Portfolio
Regularly monitor your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals. Rebalancing is crucial to maintain the desired asset allocation and to take advantage of market opportunities. It also helps in managing risks and ensuring that your portfolio is not overly concentrated in one asset class.

4. Plan for Post-Retirement Income
Once you achieve financial independence, generating a regular income to sustain your lifestyle becomes the priority. Consider creating a portfolio that can generate a steady income through:

Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs): These can provide a regular income stream while keeping your capital invested in mutual funds. It is a tax-efficient way to withdraw money.

Dividend-Paying Mutual Funds: These can offer a regular income, although the returns are subject to market conditions. It’s important to choose funds with a consistent dividend track record.

Debt Funds: These provide a stable income with lower risk compared to equities. They can be part of your post-retirement income strategy.

Tax Planning and Estate Planning
As you approach financial independence, it’s important to consider tax efficiency and estate planning.

Tax Efficiency: Optimize your investments for tax efficiency by choosing the right mix of equity and debt funds, considering the tax implications of each. Use tax-saving instruments like PPF, NPS, and ELSS funds wisely.

Estate Planning: Ensure that you have a clear estate plan in place, including a will. This will ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and it will provide peace of mind for your family.

Final Insights
You are on a strong financial footing with a well-diversified portfolio and disciplined savings habits. By optimizing your current investments, increasing your savings rate, and planning for a sustainable post-retirement income, you can achieve financial independence within the next 15 years. It’s important to stay focused, regularly review your financial plan, and make adjustments as needed. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner will also help you navigate any complexities and ensure that you stay on track toward your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |183 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 19, 2024Hindi
Career
Hello sir I am mbbs graduated from russia in 2020,n passed with my fmge exam in india in 2021, I want to ask if i want to practice medicine or work as doctor in uk ? Is it necessary for me to pass plab exam exam? Or if i get sponsorship from any uk i will be able to work there and simultaneously i will give plab exam?? Please guide me i m so confused?
Ans: Hi, I understand that you pursued a medicine course in Russia (a non-European country) and, since you are from India, you have completed the FMGE. Now you want to practice or work in the UK as a doctor?

Based on your question, you are eligible to practice in India after completing your internship (which you haven't mentioned, but I assume you have completed it). The FMGE is essentially a licensure exam for Indian students who have completed their medical studies abroad, so you are eligible to practice in India only.

If you want to practice medicine in the UK, you need to complete the PLAB test, as you are from outside the UK/Switzerland/European countries (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland).

You also inquired about sponsorship. Here is the information related to sponsorship for practicing medicine in the UK.
(Extracted from general medical council, uk org. )Applying for registration using sponsorship
If you apply through sponsorship, you will have to satisfy the sponsor that you possess the knowledge, skills and experience required for practising as a fully registered medical practitioner in the UK. Each sponsor has their own scheme which we have pre-approved. If you can satisfy the requirements of their scheme, they will issue you with a Sponsorship Registration Certificate (SRC) which you will need for your application with us. Please ensure this is a Sponsorship Registration Certificate for GMC registration, as we can’t accept UK visa sponsorship certificates for your application for registration.
Please note that a core part of all sponsors' criteria is that a doctor applying for an offer of sponsorship must have been engaged in medical practice for three out of the last five years including the most recent 12 months. If you cannot meet these minimum criteria, it is unlikely that you'll be able to supply sufficient evidence to support your application for sponsorship.
Doctors applying through sponsorship are required to demonstrate their English language skills by achieving our current minimum scores in the academic version of the IELTS test or the OET (medicine version).
• Alder Hey International Fellowship Scheme (Anaesthetics)
• Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board - BCUHB IMG Sponsorship Scheme
• BAPIO Training Academy Ltd – BTA International Fellowship Scheme
• BAPIO Training Academy Ltd – International Training Programme for Postgraduate Doctors
• BAPIO Training Academy Ltd - BTA International Fellowship Scheme – Internal Medicine with interest in Oncology with MSc in Oncology
• Barking Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust - BHRUT Sponsorship Scheme for Overseas Doctors in Clinical Radiology
• Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry (Birmingham)
• Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital – Birmingham Women’s and Children’s International Medical Graduate sponsorship scheme
• Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Cambridge IVF, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust – IVF Senior Clinical Fellowship Scheme
• Cambridge University Hospital – Senior Clinical Fellowship Scheme in Intensive Care Medicine/Anaesthesia
• Canterbury Christ Church University
• Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Psychiatry Fellowship Programme
• Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry
• Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
• East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust - Clinical Fellowship in Urology or Ophthalmology
• East Lancashire Hospital NHS Trust - Specialist Clinical Fellowship in Pain Management
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• Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust – International Clinical Fellowship Programme (ICFP)
• Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Obstetrics and Gynaecology
• Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Hospitals Foundation Trust – Oncology Specialty Training
• Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Hospitals Foundation Trust – Specialty Training in Anaesthetics
• Harefield Hospital, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust – Anaesthesia and Critical Care
• Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
• Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – International Fellows at Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
• Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust - Sponsored International Fellowship Scheme in Psychiatry
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – Emergency Medicine
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – Haematology
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – International Anaesthesia Trainees
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – Intensive Care Medicine
• Imperial College, London - Clinical Research
• King’s College Hospital NHS Trusts – International Critical Care Fellowship
• King’s College Hospital NHS Trusts – Paediatric Critical Care Fellowship
• Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust - Psychiatry specialty Fellowship Scheme
• Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust - Overseas Registrar Development and Recruitment (ORDER)
• Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – International Fellowship Programme
• Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust – International Medical Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry
• Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – CESR Fellowship in Psychiatry or Sponsored Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Lysholm Dept of Neuroradiology – National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCL
• Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust – International Fellowship Programme
• Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
• Ministry of Defence – International Military Clinical Fellowships
• Modality Partnership - Modality Primary Care International Fellowship Scheme
• NAViGO Health and Social Care CIC – International Medical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• NHS England, East of England - East of England International Office GMC Sponsorship
• NHS Fife – CESR Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry
• NHS Grampian – Psychiatry CESR Fellowship Programme
• NHS Grampian – Multi-specialty SAS Fellowship
• NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership (NWSSP) – All Wales International Medical Recruitment Programme
• Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) - Advanced Clinical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• North Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust (NLAG) Sponsorship Programme
• Northampton General Hospital – Clinical Fellowship in Regional Anaesthesia
• Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust - International Clinical Fellowship in Regional Anaesthesia, Vascular Anaesthesia, or Peri-operative Medicine
• Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – International Clinical Fellowship Scheme
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• Royal College of Physicians of London
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• Royal Wolverhampton Trust – Clinical Fellowship Programme
• Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust - Rotational Clinical Fellows in Paediatrics, Trauma and Orthopaedic International Fellows, and Subspeciality Fellows in Paediatrics
• Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Somerset NHS Foundation Trust – Somerset Overseas Doctors Sponsorship Scheme
• Somerset NHS Foundation Trust – Psychiatry Overseas Doctors Sponsorship Scheme
• South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust - GMC Multispecialty Sponsorship Scheme
• South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – International Fellowship in Psychiatry
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• St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – International Anaesthetics Fellowship Programme
• St George’s University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Dr Nirav Shah) – International Intensive Care Medicine Trainees
• St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – International Emergency Medicine Trainees
• Surrey and Borders Partnership (SABP) NHS Foundation Trust – International Psychiatric and Community Paediatrics Sponsorship Scheme
• Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust – International Psychiatric CESR or SAS Fellowship
• University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Department of Critical Care – Clinical Fellowship Critical Care and Perioperative Medicine
• University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust - International Training Fellowship Programme
• University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust - UHB LED Fellowship Programme
• University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust – Bristol Children's Hospital International Fellowship Scheme
• University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust - Department of General Internal Medicine at Weston General Hospital
• University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust
• University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust - Postgraduate Clinical Fellowship Programme
• University of Buckingham – Master of Medicine
• University of Buckingham – Master of Surgery
• University of Chester and Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust – International Training Fellows Psychiatry
• University of Hertfordshire – Professional Doctorate in General Internal Medicine (Clinical MD) Programme
KINDLY NOTE: If your sponsor is not on this list then you cannot apply using sponsorship.
If you have any further questions, please visit the GMC website for more information.

WISH YOU ALL THE VERY BEST.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 21, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, I follow your articles regularly and your detailed assessment is really awesome.I am 47yrs Male with wife, 20&18 years kids, elder one is in B.Tech and younger one is 12th. My wife is a home maker. Coming to financials. I have 4 houses including the one residing worth 10cr(total) and getting rental income of 70k per month, invested in stocks and MFs worth 60L, have foreign stocks of worth 1.7cr, accumulated pf around 1.3cr. I have farm lands worth 5cr. Have 1.2cr loan and salary of ~4L (net). current sips in equity 70k/month, have 5Cr term plan, health insurance for family 50L. How do I plan my retirement at 52-53years assuming 80 years life expectancy. Don't want to depend on kids and need regular income ~3-4L per month.
Ans: Asset Evaluation
Real Estate:
You own four houses worth Rs 10 crore, generating Rs 70,000 monthly rental income. This is a solid base for passive income. However, real estate can have fluctuating maintenance costs, tenant issues, and varying rental yields over time.

Stocks and Mutual Funds:
Your Rs 60 lakh investment in stocks and mutual funds is a commendable step. Active mutual funds offer professional fund management and can outperform index funds over time.

Foreign Stocks:
Your Rs 1.7 crore portfolio in foreign stocks adds geographical diversification. Monitor currency exchange fluctuations and global market trends.

Provident Fund (PF):
With Rs 1.3 crore in PF, this is a reliable retirement corpus. The fund provides fixed returns and tax benefits, adding stability.

Farm Lands:
Farm lands worth Rs 5 crore are an illiquid but valuable asset. They might not generate consistent income unless leased or developed.

Loans:
A loan liability of Rs 1.2 crore needs prioritised repayment. Focus on loans with higher interest rates first.

Insurance Coverage:
A Rs 5 crore term plan is robust. Your Rs 50 lakh health insurance is sufficient for unexpected medical emergencies.

Retirement Goals
You need Rs 3–4 lakh monthly for 27–28 years post-retirement.
The portfolio must generate steady, inflation-adjusted returns.
Action Plan for Retirement
Debt Management
Prepay High-Interest Loans:
Use a portion of your surplus income to prepay loans. This reduces interest outflow and increases your cash flow.

Avoid New Loans:
Focus on reducing existing liabilities instead of taking on new ones.

Portfolio Restructuring
Real Estate:
Retain essential properties. Sell underperforming or non-essential properties to reduce concentration in real estate. Invest proceeds in mutual funds or debt instruments for diversification.

Mutual Funds (MFs):
Increase SIPs in actively managed funds. They outperform direct funds due to guidance from Certified Financial Planners and MFDs. Regular funds offer better tracking and professional assistance.

Stocks:
Monitor direct equity investments closely. Consider reallocating underperforming stocks to mutual funds for better management.

Debt Instruments:
Invest in high-quality debt funds or fixed-income securities for stability. These instruments balance equity volatility and ensure steady returns.

SIP Strategy
Increase SIPs from Rs 70,000 to Rs 1 lakh/month.
Allocate 70% to equity funds for long-term growth.
Invest 30% in debt funds for stability and liquidity.
Emergency Fund
Maintain a 12-month expense reserve in liquid funds or fixed deposits.
This covers unexpected expenses without disturbing investments.
Income During Retirement
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Use SWPs in mutual funds to generate regular income.
Withdraw 6–8% annually from your mutual fund portfolio for a steady income stream.
Rental Income Optimisation
Review property rents regularly.
Invest part of rental income in equity or debt mutual funds for compounding.
Dividend Stocks
Retain high-dividend-yield stocks for regular income.
Reinvest surplus dividends for long-term growth.
Tax Efficiency
Equity Funds Taxation:
Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt Funds Taxation:
Both short- and long-term gains are taxed per your income slab.

Real Estate Capital Gains:
Use exemptions under Sections 54 or 54F to save tax on property sales.

Inflation Protection
Allocate 60–70% of your portfolio to equity investments.

Equity provides inflation-adjusted returns over time.

Debt funds and fixed instruments safeguard against equity market volatility.

Estate Planning
Draft a will to allocate assets transparently among family members.
Use nomination and joint ownership to avoid legal complications.
Consider a family trust for farm lands to avoid disputes.
Periodic Review
Review your financial plan every six months.
Adjust investments based on market conditions, goals, and needs.
Consult a Certified Financial Planner regularly for updates.
Finally
A well-diversified portfolio ensures financial independence post-retirement. Focus on debt repayment, portfolio balance, and tax-efficient withdrawals. Your assets can comfortably generate Rs 3–4 lakh monthly income, adjusted for inflation.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |444 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

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Relationship
I am the eldest sibling in our families and aged 51. Normally, whenever anyone in the family has a problem - financial, mental, psychological, issue with people or anything else, they come up to discuss with me and share. Well, many would say I am lucky as people look up to me when they are in any kind of a problem. But that is not the case. Sadly no one is around with whom I can discuss or even think to share my issues, my problems. I do not have any friends. Sadly, yes, that is a fact and at my age, I dont expect that here we have a culture where we can get to making friends, at least the kind of friends with whom you can confide, share your feelings, problems. I tried and failed. Maybe because I am introvert or maybe I am too cautious. To make it more complicated, I dont work in the regular kind of job. I am a lone person who works as a freelance from home. This limits my outreach when it comes to interacting with real people. I have clients, business contacts, but I cannot get personal with them. It will never be a good choice. My wife is busy with her job + we do not have any relation beyond the daily matters related to household and it has been more than 10 years now that we live this way. Tried to sort out things with her but she just does not have time and interest (after all who wants to add on to tensions, stress). My daughter is after all my daughter - I cannot share these with her, and definitely at 10 she is too young to be one to discuss such stuff. I am not sure how far this issue can be fixed but I am hopeful to find some path here.
Ans: Dear Kevin,
Starting small can be helpful. Consider connecting with people through shared interests or hobbies, either online or in person, where the pressure to immediately open up is minimal. Online communities, local meetups, or volunteer activities can create low-stakes opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. The goal isn’t to instantly find someone to confide in but to slowly build a sense of belonging and companionship.

Your relationship with your wife appears to be another significant source of emotional distance. While her lack of interest in deep conversations may seem like a barrier, it’s worth exploring other ways to reconnect—perhaps by spending time together in shared activities or revisiting moments that once brought you closer. Sometimes, relationships stuck in routines benefit from new experiences or even professional counseling to navigate the underlying dynamics.

Regarding your daughter, while it’s clear she cannot shoulder your emotional burdens, she can still be a source of joy and connection. Investing time in activities with her can provide a sense of fulfillment and grounding that counters loneliness.

Above all, remember that reaching out for professional support, such as therapy, is not a sign of weakness but an act of self-care. A therapist can provide a safe space to express your feelings and help you develop strategies to foster deeper connections and manage emotional isolation.

You deserve to feel supported and connected, and even if the journey to finding that seems long, every step you take toward opening up or seeking out others is a move toward a more fulfilling and less lonely existence.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

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Money
Top4 sips with 15k amount suggest me
Ans: Here’s an updated strategy for your Rs. 15,000 SIP allocation, replacing the sectoral/thematic fund with a small-cap fund for better long-term growth potential.

Suggested SIP Allocation (Rs. 15,000)
Large-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 4,000/month
Objective: Stability and steady growth by investing in India’s top 100 companies.
Why Choose: Provides consistent returns and low volatility in your portfolio.
Flexi-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 4,000/month
Objective: Diversified exposure across large, mid, and small-cap stocks.
Why Choose: Offers balanced risk and returns with flexibility during market cycles.
Mid-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 3,500/month
Objective: Tap into the growth potential of medium-sized companies.
Why Choose: Higher returns with manageable risk compared to small caps.
Small-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 3,500/month
Objective: Focus on fast-growing small-cap companies.
Why Choose: High-growth potential over the long term, though with higher volatility.
Why Include Small-Cap Funds?
Long-Term Growth: Small-cap companies have immense potential to grow significantly over time.
Diversification: Adds exposure to an underrepresented segment, complementing large and mid-caps.
High Returns: Potential for higher returns compared to other categories, albeit with higher risk.
Key Considerations
Investment Horizon: Stay invested for at least 7-10 years to mitigate short-term volatility.
Active Fund Management: Avoid direct or index funds to leverage professional expertise.
Regular Monitoring: Review fund performance periodically with a Certified Financial Planner.
Tax Implications
Equity Funds:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh/year taxed at 12.5%.
STCG (held less than 1 year) taxed at 20%.
Final Insights
This updated allocation ensures a mix of stability, moderate risk, and high growth. With consistent SIPs and periodic reviews, you can achieve robust wealth creation over the long term. A Certified Financial Planner can assist in optimising your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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