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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 24, 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
Sujit Question by Sujit on Apr 24, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

I am 43 + by age and currently into private sector service. I have no obligation towards any loan or EMI. At present I have around 10 Lac corpus into different MFs (with current market value of 14L) through monthly SIP of around 20,000. In terms of financial back up I have FDs (10 Lac.), EPF (5L), PPF (Both Self & Spouse 14L) and NPS (5L). In terms of obligation, my son is in 9th standard and his education costs is secured through LIC policies. Apart from that I have Health Insurance (15L) and Term Insurance (1 Cr.) I am planning to retire after 10 years and wanted to know what will be the ideal amount of corpus fund for a happy retirement and how to achieve that in next 10 years.

Ans: Navigating the path to a secure and fulfilling retirement is much like embarking on a journey to a distant land. Your current financial landscape, with its diverse mix of investments and savings, is akin to the sturdy ship that will carry you towards that horizon. You've already charted a commendable course, laying down a foundation with your prudent savings and investments.

The Horizon of Retirement

Let's contemplate the horizon of your retirement. The ideal destination, often framed as 80% of your pre-retirement income, serves as a lighthouse guiding your financial vessel. This beacon suggests that you'll need to set aside a corpus that can sustain your post-retirement lifestyle, allowing you to navigate the serene waters of retirement with peace and dignity.

Adjusting to the Winds of Change

To reach this horizon within a decade, consider the winds of change and the currents of time. The winds, symbolizing the forces of inflation and market fluctuations, are unpredictable. Thus, it's wise to adjust your sails by incrementally increasing your monthly contributions. Let this gradual adjustment act as your compass, guiding you towards your financial North Star.

Navigating the Currents of Investments

The currents represent the various investment avenues available to you. Like a seasoned sailor choosing the right route, diversify your investments wisely across these currents. Each stream offers its unique rhythm and potential. By harnessing their combined strength, you can propel your financial ship forward with confidence and vigor.

Anchors of Stability and Security

Your existing investments, the anchors that ground your ship, have served you well. The tax-advantaged instruments and stable returns they offer act as protective harbors, providing security amidst the stormy seas of market volatility. While they provide stability, remember to weigh their liquidity constraints against the flexibility needed to adapt to changing tides.

Guidance from a Certified Financial Planner

Engaging with a Certified Financial Planner is akin to hiring an experienced navigator for your journey. They can help you plot the optimal course, taking into account the changing winds and currents. Their expertise and guidance can provide you with a clearer perspective, ensuring that your ship remains on course towards your retirement horizon.



In this voyage towards retirement, philosophical reflections offer valuable insights. Each financial decision, much like life's choices, shapes the journey ahead. Embrace the journey with gratitude for the opportunities it presents and appreciation for the lessons learned along the way. The voyage itself, filled with its challenges and triumphs, enriches the soul and adds depth to the narrative of your life.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, as you navigate the waters of retirement planning, remember to stay true to your course while adapting to the changing winds and currents. With prudent planning, wise investments, and the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner, you can sail towards a fulfilling retirement with confidence and grace. Cherish the journey, embrace the lessons, and let the horizon of retirement inspire you to navigate the financial seas with purpose and resilience.
Asked on - Apr 24, 2024 | Answered on Apr 24, 2024
Listen
The answer to my question seems to be very generalized. Please provide answer to the point.
Ans: Determining the ideal corpus fund for a happy retirement and how to achieve it in 10 years is a complex task that depends on various factors unique to each individual. Without specific information about your current financial situation, lifestyle, expected retirement expenses, and risk tolerance, it's challenging to provide a precise answer.

Retirement planning requires a personalized approach tailored to your needs and goals. Factors like your current age, desired retirement age, expected lifespan, current and future expenses, inflation rates, and investment returns all play a crucial role in shaping your retirement plan.

Your current lifestyle and spending habits are also significant considerations. Do you plan to maintain a similar lifestyle in retirement, or do you expect significant changes in your expenses? Will you have mortgage or other debts to pay off before retirement? Do you have dependents or family members whose financial needs you'll need to consider?

Moreover, market conditions and economic factors can impact investment returns and inflation rates, making long-term predictions uncertain. A small change in these rates can have a significant impact on the required corpus and the investment strategy needed to achieve it.

Given these variables, it's essential to conduct a comprehensive financial assessment and retirement planning exercise. Consulting with a financial advisor can provide valuable insights and guidance tailored to your specific situation. They can help you create a realistic retirement plan, set achievable goals, and develop an investment strategy to work towards building your retirement corpus over the next 10 years.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

Listen
Money
Sir, Myself Rajesh, salaried person, 37 years old. having MF SIP Rs. 36500 per month, current invested amount is about Rs. 14,00,000/- + in Equity stocks- Rs.3,00,000/- have about Rs. 5,00,000/- in hand to invest either in stocks or MF . Have family of 3 people and Monthly expenses are around Rs.25k. Planning to take retirement in another 10 years, looking at the current investment can you help me identify approx. corpus required to invest and take retirement. Thank you.
Ans: Hello Rajesh! It's great to see your commitment to investing for your future, especially with retirement on the horizon. Let's dive into planning for your retirement corpus.

Given your current investments in MF SIPs and equity stocks, you're already on a solid path. However, to estimate the corpus needed for retirement, we need to consider factors such as your desired post-retirement lifestyle, inflation, and expected expenses.

With your monthly expenses at Rs. 25,000 and a family of three, projecting your future expenses accounting for inflation is essential. Additionally, factoring in potential healthcare costs and other unforeseen expenses is prudent.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend conducting a comprehensive financial review to determine your retirement goals and risk tolerance. This will help in estimating the corpus required to sustain your lifestyle post-retirement comfortably.

With your additional Rs. 5,00,000 in hand, you have an opportunity to further diversify your investments. Whether you choose to invest in stocks or MFs, consider your risk appetite and the need for diversification to mitigate risks.

I suggest consulting with a financial advisor who can create a personalized retirement plan tailored to your specific circumstances and goals. By taking proactive steps now, you're setting yourself up for a financially secure retirement in 10 years. Keep up the good work, and remember, investing is a journey, so stay focused on your long-term objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 27, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi guruji, I am 58 yr. I have 30 lakh in MF ,and 85 K monthly SIP also have 6 l in F.D. I get 24 l per annum in a private sector. I don't get any retirement benefits from the company. I want to work for 3 more years . I have HDFC optima secure medical policy for 20 lakhs. My children are settled and I own a flat and no loans. My monthly expenses now are 50k. How much do I need as retirement corpus. Please sugges me how much more is to be saved and ways of doing
Ans: To determine how much more you need for retirement and how to achieve it, let's go through a few steps:

Estimate Retirement Expenses: Calculate your estimated monthly expenses after retirement. Since your current expenses are 50k per month, consider any changes in expenses after retirement, such as healthcare costs and leisure activities.

Calculate Retirement Corpus: Multiply your estimated annual expenses by the number of years you expect to live post-retirement. Assuming a lifespan of 85 years and a retirement age of 61, you would need a retirement corpus to cover expenses for around 24 years.

Consider Inflation: Adjust your retirement corpus for inflation to ensure that your savings retain their purchasing power over time.

Assess Current Savings: Evaluate your current savings and investments, including MFs, FDs, and SIPs. Determine how much these assets are expected to grow by the time you retire.

Identify Shortfall: Compare your estimated retirement corpus with your current savings to identify any shortfall.

Increase Savings: If there's a shortfall, consider increasing your monthly SIP contributions or exploring other investment options to bridge the gap. You may also consider delaying retirement by a few years to allow your investments more time to grow.

Review Insurance: Ensure that your medical insurance coverage is adequate for your needs post-retirement. Consider any additional insurance policies or riders that may be necessary.

Consult a Financial Advisor: It's advisable to consult a financial advisor who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific financial situation and goals. They can help you develop a comprehensive retirement plan and suggest suitable investment strategies to achieve your objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 14, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Greetings ! I have the following question for your expert advice: I am 43 + by age and currently into private sector service. I have no obligation towards any loan or EMI. At present I have around 10 Lac corpus into different MFs (with current market value of 14L) through monthly SIP of around 20,000. In terms of financial back up I have FDs (10 Lac.), EPF (5L), PPF (Both Self & Spouse 14L) and NPS (5L). In terms of obligation, my son is in 9th standard and his education costs is secured through LIC policies. Apart from that I have Health Insurance (15L) and Term Insurance (1 Cr.) I am planning to retire after 10 years and wanted to know what will be the ideal amount of corpus fund for a happy retirement and how to achieve that in next 10 years.
Ans: It's commendable that you're planning ahead for your retirement. To determine the ideal corpus for a happy retirement, you'll need to consider factors such as your desired lifestyle, expected expenses, inflation, and life expectancy. A certified financial planner can help you calculate a personalized retirement corpus based on these factors.

To achieve your retirement goals in the next 10 years, consider the following steps:

Evaluate Current Investments: Review your current investment portfolio, including MFs, FDs, EPF, PPF, and NPS. Assess their performance, risk profile, and alignment with your retirement goals.
Set Retirement Goals: Determine your desired retirement lifestyle and estimated expenses. Factor in inflation and other potential costs such as healthcare and leisure activities.
Calculate Required Corpus: Work with a financial planner to calculate the required retirement corpus based on your goals, expenses, and expected returns. Consider factors like inflation and longevity risk.
Optimize Savings and Investments: Maximize contributions to retirement-focused investment vehicles such as EPF, PPF, and NPS. Consider increasing SIP amounts or diversifying into other investment avenues to accelerate wealth accumulation.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review your investment portfolio and make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards your retirement goals. Consider rebalancing your portfolio periodically and reassessing your risk tolerance.
Remember that retirement planning is a dynamic process, and it's essential to adapt your strategy as your circumstances change. By starting early and seeking professional advice, you can build a robust retirement corpus and enjoy a financially secure future.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Sushil

Sushil Sukhwani  |333 Answers  |Ask -

Study Abroad Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 26, 2024Hindi
Listen
Career
Hi, my daughter is doing +2 (medical) in India. She want to become doctor. What are the options for her to become doctor in US? What she needs to study in US after her +2 (medical) in india?
Ans: Hello. Thank you for connecting with us. It is amazing to hear that she wants to pursue a medical program in the USA. However, let me tell you that before applying to any medical school, international students should make sure they have completed a four-year bachelor's degree with all of the prerequisite classes needed for the particular medical school being applied to. The prerequisites vary as per the school, but almost all schools require the students to have studied the following science courses: biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry. Some schools may also require that you have taken other humanities, English, mathematics, and science classes as well, so make sure you look into medical schools while you are still an undergraduate so you can choose your classes appropriately. You will also need to have completed the MCAT test, which stands for Medical College Admissions Test. The test will determine your ability to think critically, problem-solve, and write clearly, as well as measure your knowledge of various scientific concepts. A good score on the MCAT is key to getting into a good medical school. International students must complete a pre- med program, which may take 1-2 years to complete at a US university, to start a degree in medicine in the country. The student will then be required to complete a 4.5-year degree after the pre- med to be awarded an MD degree under AUAMED.

For any further queries, please get in touch with us. We have a team of expert counselors who can guide you through any concerns or questions you may have

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Listen
Money
Sir, I am 72 years old and want to invest Rs 15 lac in M.F, in swp.already invested 22 lac in MF .I am high risk taker . I want swp amount after one year. Please suggest M.F schemes . Thanks
Ans: Given your risk appetite and requirement for SWP after one year, it's crucial to focus on mutual fund schemes that offer potential for high returns while considering the relatively short investment horizon. Here are some suggestions:

Large & Midcap Funds: These funds invest in a mix of large-cap and mid-cap stocks, offering a balance between growth potential and stability. Look for schemes with a track record of consistent performance and experienced fund management.
Sectoral/Thematic Funds: If you have specific sectoral preferences and are willing to take higher risks, you can consider investing in sectoral or thematic funds. These funds focus on specific sectors or themes like technology, healthcare, or infrastructure, offering the potential for higher returns but also higher volatility.
Aggressive Hybrid Funds: Aggressive hybrid funds invest primarily in equities with a smaller allocation to debt instruments. They are suitable for investors seeking growth with relatively lower volatility compared to pure equity funds.
Flexi Cap Funds: These funds have the flexibility to invest across market capitalizations based on market conditions. They offer a dynamic approach to asset allocation and can adapt to changing market trends.
Mid & Small Cap Funds: If you have a higher risk tolerance and a longer investment horizon, mid and small-cap funds can potentially offer higher returns. However, they also come with higher volatility and risk, so careful selection and monitoring are essential.
When selecting mutual fund schemes, focus on factors such as fund performance track record, fund manager's experience and strategy, expense ratio, and risk-adjusted returns. Additionally, consider diversifying your investments across multiple schemes to spread risk.

It's advisable to consult with a certified financial planner or investment advisor who can assess your financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment goals to provide personalized recommendations aligned with your needs and preferences.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 29, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I have been laid off by my company and I have a PF balance of around 22 lacs. I read we are allowed to withdraw 75% if we are laid off and being unemployed at least for a month. I am thinking if it is a good idea to withdraw this 75% and invest in diverse options like mutual funds, FDs or corporate bonds which give better interest? I see mutual fund options in many apps these days with some good performing funds giving 33% returns on 3-year average. So should I consider investing at least 50% of my PF corpus in that option and balance in others? Please advice.
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about your job loss. With regards to your PF withdrawal, it's essential to carefully consider your options before making any decisions.

PF Withdrawal: Yes, you are eligible to withdraw up to 75% of your PF balance if you are unemployed for at least a month. However, withdrawing this amount means depleting your retirement savings, so it's crucial to evaluate the long-term implications.
Investment Options:
Mutual Funds: Mutual funds can offer potentially higher returns compared to traditional options like FDs. However, they also come with market risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Consider investing in a diversified portfolio of mutual funds across different asset classes and fund categories to mitigate risk.
FDs: FDs provide stable returns and capital protection but offer relatively lower returns compared to equity investments. They can be suitable for short to medium-term goals and for preserving capital.
Corporate Bonds: Corporate bonds can provide higher returns than FDs but carry credit risk associated with the issuer's ability to repay the debt. Investing in highly-rated corporate bonds or bond funds can offer a balance of risk and return.
Asset Allocation: Consider diversifying your investments across different asset classes to manage risk effectively. You may allocate a portion of your PF withdrawal to mutual funds for growth potential, while also keeping a portion in safer options like FDs or bonds for stability.
Financial Planning: Before making any investment decisions, I strongly recommend consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or a qualified financial advisor. They can assess your financial situation, understand your goals and risk tolerance, and provide personalized recommendations aligned with your needs and objectives.
Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund to cover your living expenses for at least 6-12 months in case of unexpected financial setbacks.
Overall, prioritize prudence and long-term financial stability when deciding how to utilize your PF corpus. It's essential to strike a balance between risk and return based on your financial goals and circumstances.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello sir, All our corpos mostly 90% is in debt(in the form of FDR's, SSSC, LIC etc) and rest 10% in MF and ULIP. I am 32 years and my mother is 61 years. I am working professional in tier 2 city and mother is retired from government job. I am seeking a financial advice to balance out the investments in debt and want some exposure in equity by investing through MF's. We have a total of 3 cr in debt and approx 40 lacs in equity market. Please suggest us the suitable mix so that our corpus would also grow and expenses would also meet out. Our total expenses per month would be around 35 K. Please also suggest the names of mutual funds to start investing?? Regards, Bharat Manik
Ans: Hello Bharat,

It's commendable that you're seeking to balance your investments and diversify into equity through mutual funds. Here's a tailored recommendation for you and your mother:

Balancing Debt and Equity:

Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund equivalent to at least 6-12 months of expenses kept in liquid instruments like savings accounts or short-term debt funds.
Debt Investments: Since you already have a substantial portion of your corpus in debt instruments, continue to maintain this allocation to ensure stability and regular income. Consider diversifying across different types of debt instruments for optimal risk management.
Equity Investments: Given your age and long-term investment horizon, it's prudent to gradually increase your exposure to equity through mutual funds. Start with allocating a portion of your investable surplus to equity funds.
Suitable Mutual Funds:

Diversified Equity Funds: Look for well-managed diversified equity funds with a proven track record of consistent performance. These funds offer exposure to a broad range of stocks across sectors and market capitalizations.
Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds dynamically manage the equity-debt allocation based on market conditions, making them suitable for investors seeking a balanced approach.
Large Cap Funds: Consider large-cap equity funds for stability and lower volatility. These funds invest in large, established companies with a track record of stable earnings.
Hybrid Funds: Opt for hybrid funds, which invest in both equity and debt instruments, offering a balanced approach to risk and return.
For personalized recommendations and to ensure your investment strategy aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance, I recommend consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or a qualified financial advisor. They can provide customized guidance based on your unique circumstances and help you navigate the complexities of financial planning.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 05, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi Sir/Madam I have invested in various equity funds of different AMCs. Can I get any app or some kind of reliable advisor who can track my investments and suggest switching from non performing funds to performing funds. My goal is just wealth multiplication and I am aware of market fluctuations. During Covid, remained invested in all my equity mutual funds. Kindly guide.... Thanks and Regards
Ans: For personalized advice and guidance on your mutual fund investments, I recommend consulting a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) who holds Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credentials. MFDs with CFP qualifications can provide comprehensive financial planning services tailored to your specific goals, risk tolerance, and investment preferences.

Here are some benefits of working with an MFD with CFP credentials:

Holistic Financial Planning: A CFP-certified MFD can help you create a comprehensive financial plan that aligns with your long-term goals, including wealth multiplication through mutual fund investments.
Personalized Advice: They can offer personalized investment advice based on your individual financial situation, risk profile, and investment objectives.
Portfolio Review and Optimization: An MFD with CFP credentials can regularly review your mutual fund portfolio, identify underperforming funds, and recommend suitable switches to potentially better-performing funds.
Risk Management: They can assess your risk tolerance and recommend an investment strategy that balances risk and return to help you achieve your financial goals.
Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing: CFP-certified MFDs can provide ongoing monitoring of your investments and rebalance your portfolio as needed to ensure it remains aligned with your objectives.
By working with an MFD who is also a Certified Financial Planner, you can benefit from personalized, professional advice and guidance to make informed decisions about your mutual fund investments and overall financial plan.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |1368 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, I have the following Mutual Funds Investments, request you to let me know if these can be continued with or need to discontinue any of them, also please let me know new good performing funds to invest in. One time investment: (1) ICICI/ India Opportunities Fund - Growth - ?2,50,000, (2) ICICI/ Value Discovery Fund - Growth - ?2,50,000, (3) ICICI / Transporation & Logistics Fund - Growth - ?2,00,000. SIP Monthly: (4) Axis Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan - ?5,000, (5) Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Regular Plan - ?5,000, (6) Aditya Birla SL Focused Equity Fund(G) - â‚15,000, (7) HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund(G) - ?5,000, (8) ICICI Pru Bluechip Fund(G) - ?5,000, (9) Axis Small Cap Fund - Regular Plan - ?5,000, (10) ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Growth - ?5,000, (11) L&T Midcap Fund - HSBC Midcap Fund - ?5,000, (12) ICIPRU Multi-Asset Fund - Growth - ?5,000, (13) ICIPRU Value Discovery Fund - Growth - ?5,000. Thank You.
Ans: Based on your current Mutual Funds Investments, here are some recommendations:

Existing Investments:
ICICI India Opportunities Fund: Review the fund's performance and consider its alignment with your investment objectives. If it continues to meet your goals and performs well, you can consider keeping it.
ICICI Value Discovery Fund: Similar to the above, assess its performance and suitability. If it has delivered satisfactory results and fits your investment strategy, you may continue with it.
ICICI Transportation & Logistics Fund: Evaluate the fund's performance and prospects in the current market scenario. If you're confident in its future growth potential, you can maintain your investment.
New Fund Recommendations:
Consider diversifying your portfolio by adding funds from different categories such as large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap.
Look for funds with a consistent track record of performance, experienced fund managers, and a robust investment strategy aligned with your risk profile.
Conduct thorough research or seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner or Mutual Fund Distributor to identify suitable options based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Review and Adjustments:
Regularly review the performance of your existing investments and make adjustments as needed based on changes in market conditions, fund performance, and your financial goals.
Monitor the expense ratios, fund manager's track record, and the overall portfolio diversification to ensure optimal investment outcomes.
By carefully assessing your existing investments and making informed decisions about new fund allocations, you can build a well-balanced and diversified Mutual Funds portfolio that aligns with your long-term financial objectives.

...Read more

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

Close  

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

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

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

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

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

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x