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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 14, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

I am 52 years old investing 5 k sbi nifty 150 midcap, 5 k in sbi nifty 250 small cap and 5k in sbi dividend yield fund as sip for 2 years and also invested 250000 as lumpsum in Sbi contra fund. What will be the return and can i continue the sip.

Ans: Given your age and current investments, your portfolio is diversified across various equity mutual fund categories. Over the long term, equity investments typically offer higher returns, but they also come with market risks. The returns can't be predicted precisely, but historically, equity investments have delivered annual returns ranging from 10% to 15% on average.

To assess your portfolio's performance and future returns:

Monitor the performance of your funds regularly.
Consider the market conditions and economic outlook.
Review your financial goals and risk tolerance.
You can continue the SIPs if they align with your investment goals and risk appetite. Periodically review and adjust your investments as needed.
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  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hello Sir namaskar Below is my monthly SIP. I want to continue it 4 10 yrs. What return can i get through this. Quant small cap-2500/- Pgim india small cap-2500/- Kotak small cap-5000/- Nippon india small cap- 1500/- Hdfc non cyclical consumer- 1500/- Quant mid cap - 1000/- Bandhan fin service-1000/-
Ans: Your current monthly SIP is well-structured, covering small-cap and mid-cap funds, as well as sectoral opportunities. The portfolio aims for high growth, but it also comes with some risk due to a high allocation to small-cap funds.

Key features of your portfolio include:

Focus on Small-Cap Funds: You have allocated Rs 11,500 to small-cap funds. Small-cap funds offer high potential for growth but come with volatility. They are better suited for long-term investors like you since you are investing for 10 years.

Diversification: The inclusion of sectoral and mid-cap funds adds some diversity, but it is still heavily skewed towards small-cap. This will give you more potential for high returns but with risks.

Risk and Volatility: Small-cap and mid-cap funds tend to be more volatile. You will see fluctuations in returns, especially in market downturns. However, over 10 years, these investments should stabilize and potentially yield significant returns.

Appreciating your dedication to a long-term investment approach, I must point out that while you can expect good returns, you will need to be prepared for market fluctuations.

Expected Returns and Risk Assessment
Though I won't name specific schemes, your portfolio leans towards aggressive growth. Based on historical trends:

Small-Cap Funds: Historically, small-cap funds have delivered returns between 12-15% over long periods. However, they can experience downturns, so expect some volatility.

Mid-Cap and Sectoral Funds: Mid-cap funds have the potential to provide returns of around 10-12% in the long run. Sectoral funds may vary depending on the industry’s performance but can deliver substantial gains in growth sectors.

Given your 10-year horizon, it is likely that you could achieve average annualized returns between 10-14%. Please remember that returns are not guaranteed and depend on market performance.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds Over Index Funds
Since you are focused on small-cap and mid-cap funds, let me explain why actively managed funds can outperform index funds:

Active Management: Fund managers actively select stocks with high growth potential in small-cap and mid-cap spaces, often outperforming indices in the long term.

Flexibility: Actively managed funds can adjust their portfolio based on market conditions. This is especially important for small-cap funds, as market dynamics can change quickly.

Potential for Higher Returns: Small-cap and mid-cap funds managed by experienced fund managers can capitalize on opportunities that an index may miss.

In contrast, index funds or ETFs simply track a broad market and do not offer the same targeted growth potential as actively managed funds. By sticking to actively managed funds, you increase your chances of higher returns.

Importance of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
There are several reasons why investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential is beneficial:

Expert Guidance: Regular funds come with the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner. This is particularly useful in managing risk, adjusting your portfolio, and optimizing returns.

Risk Management: As markets fluctuate, a CFP can help you rebalance your portfolio and reduce unnecessary risks.

Holistic Planning: Investing through an MFD ensures that you receive a comprehensive financial plan, which takes your entire financial situation into account, not just investments.

While direct funds may offer lower fees, you miss out on the professional support and planning that a Certified Financial Planner provides. In the long run, this guidance often results in better outcomes for investors.

Taxation Considerations on Mutual Funds
With the new taxation rules:

Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): For equity mutual funds, any gains over Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): STCG is taxed at 20%.

Debt Funds: If you decide to include debt mutual funds in your portfolio later, note that both LTCG and STCG on debt funds are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Understanding the tax implications will help you better manage withdrawals and gains in the future.

Evaluating Your Investment Horizon
Your 10-year investment horizon is ideal for the current portfolio because small-cap and mid-cap funds perform best over the long term. During this period, you will:

Capture Full Market Cycles: Small-cap funds are prone to higher volatility but can deliver strong performance over complete market cycles. A 10-year horizon is perfect for this strategy.

Benefit from Compounding: Staying invested for 10 years allows your returns to compound, significantly growing your wealth over time.

However, you should periodically review your portfolio, especially in the last 3 years of your investment term, to assess if any rebalancing is needed.

Suggestions to Improve Your Portfolio
While your portfolio is strong, a few adjustments could enhance your risk-return balance:

Consider Large-Cap or Balanced Funds: Introducing large-cap or balanced funds can reduce volatility, especially if market conditions worsen. These funds provide stability and diversification.

Sectoral Allocation: Having a sectoral fund in your portfolio is a good move for high growth, but be cautious of overexposure to one sector. If the sector performs poorly, it can drag down returns.

Periodic Reviews: Although you have a long-term horizon, it’s important to conduct annual reviews. This will help you stay on track and adjust your investments if needed.

Importance of Having a Goal-Based Approach
It’s important to link your investments to specific financial goals. This will help you stay motivated and maintain focus during periods of market volatility. Consider setting the following goals:

Retirement: If this portfolio is aimed at retirement, calculate how much you need at the end of 10 years. Adjust your SIPs accordingly to ensure you meet your retirement goals.

Education: If you are saving for children’s education, time your withdrawals carefully to avoid high taxes.

Setting clear goals will help you plan better and adjust your strategy if needed.

Emergency Fund and Insurance Coverage
If you haven't already, make sure you have an emergency fund in place. Ideally, this should cover 6 to 12 months of your monthly expenses. Also, ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage to protect your family and your financial plan in case of unforeseen events.

Rebalancing and Flexibility
It’s essential to remain flexible in your approach:

Periodic Rebalancing: As you approach the end of your investment term, consider rebalancing your portfolio. Move part of your investments to safer options to protect your gains.

Stay Open to Adjustments: As your financial situation or market conditions change, be open to adjusting your SIPs, fund choices, or asset allocation.

Finally
Your dedication to long-term investing is commendable. Over the next 10 years, you can expect strong growth from your portfolio. However, remember that market volatility is a part of the journey, especially with small-cap funds. Stick to your plan, and review your portfolio regularly. With the right adjustments, you will likely achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
Hi, I am investing below SIP along with return given. Can you please assist whether my returns are good or anything i need to improve in SIP?.SIP-1, Invested 365000-Returns 259000-6.1 years, SIP-2, Invested 60000-Returns 1300-1 year
Ans: Your SIP performance needs a detailed evaluation. Let’s analyse it from different angles.

SIP-1: Performance Review
You invested Rs 3,65,000 over 6.1 years.
Your current returns stand at Rs 2,59,000.
Your returns are lower than expected over this period.
A good equity mutual fund should give better results in over 6 years.
The returns suggest either low-performing funds or market fluctuations.
Reviewing fund categories and allocation is important.
Check if your SIP is in large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap funds.
Large-cap funds tend to give lower returns but are stable.
Mid-cap and small-cap funds have higher risks but better long-term potential.
If this fund is underperforming its category, a switch is needed.
Compare your fund’s 5-year and 10-year category average returns.
If your SIP is in a debt fund, returns may be lower but steady.
Exit only after checking exit loads and taxation.
If this SIP is in an underperforming fund, consider shifting to a better one.
SIP-2: Performance Review
You invested Rs 60,000 in 1 year.
Your returns are just Rs 1,300.
This is a very short period to judge performance.
Equity mutual funds need at least 5 years to show real potential.
If this is a debt fund, returns will naturally be lower.
If this is an equity fund, check market trends before deciding.
SIPs work better when invested for long periods.
Continue this SIP for a few more years before judging.
Avoid making changes based on short-term volatility.
If this SIP is in an actively managed fund, review its fund manager’s history.
Key Areas to Improve
1. Portfolio Diversification

A balanced portfolio should have large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Mid-cap and small-cap funds give better long-term returns but are volatile.
If all your SIPs are in large-cap funds, returns may be lower.
Debt funds help for short-term stability, but they should not dominate equity SIPs.
2. Reviewing SIP Performance Regularly

Compare your SIP returns with the benchmark index.
Check category average returns before deciding on a switch.
If the fund consistently underperforms, move to a better one.
Review SIPs every 6 months for better portfolio management.
3. Expense Ratio and Fund Management

High expense ratios eat into your returns.
If your fund’s expense ratio is very high, look for a lower-cost alternative.
Actively managed funds with strong fund managers give better long-term returns.
Avoid direct funds as they require expertise to manage well.
4. Long-Term Strategy for Better Returns

SIPs need time to generate compounding benefits.
Avoid redeeming funds early due to short-term market movements.
Invest for a minimum of 5 years in equity funds for wealth creation.
Equity SIPs work best when held for 10-15 years.
Action Plan
Step 1: Analyse Fund Performance

Check if your SIPs are in large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap categories.
Compare with benchmark returns.
If any SIP underperforms for more than 3 years, consider shifting.
Step 2: Increase Allocation in High-Growth Sectors

Consider increasing exposure to high-growth funds.
Balanced allocation between large, mid, and small-cap funds is important.
Step 3: Stay Invested for the Long Term

SIPs need at least 5 years for equity growth.
Continue investing to benefit from compounding.
Avoid stopping SIPs due to short-term losses.
Step 4: Rebalance Portfolio Every Year

Shift funds if they consistently underperform over 3-5 years.
Align your investments based on financial goals.
Avoid emotional decisions based on short-term trends.
Final Insights
Your SIPs need some adjustments for better returns.
SIP-1 is underperforming over 6 years and needs a fund review.
SIP-2 is too new to judge and should be continued longer.
A diversified portfolio with large, mid, and small-cap funds works best.
Actively managed funds with strong fund managers give better long-term returns.
Review your funds every 6 months and rebalance yearly.
Staying invested for the long term will generate wealth.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Janak

Janak Patel  |21 Answers  |Ask -

MF, PF Expert - Answered on Mar 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 10, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi, I am 46 years old residing in a B Town in India. I have 2 daughters one 16 years old and second 7 years old. I have Savings of 25 Lakh in my account as emergency find. I have FD of 65 Lakhs. PF, PPF and NPS of 25 Lakhs, Mutual Fund and Shares of 25 Lakhs, Lic policies worth 25 Lakhs, Gold around 1.2 Crores. I have a medical insurance of 20 Lakhs for me and my family, Term insurance of 1Cr. As properties. I own 2 independent houses, 2 flats and 2 plots in Bangalore which has a current value of about 4.5 Cr. In my home town i have 2 Houses, 1 apartment and plots which has a current value of 2.75 Cr. Currently i am drawing a monthly salary of 2 Lakh rupees and get a rent of 30K/ month. I donot have any emi's and my monthly expenses is currently 75K. I am planning to retire at the age of 50. Is my financial condition stable to retire at the age of 50? Thanks for your suggestion in advance.
Ans: Hi,

Lets understand the value of your current Investments at the time of retirement. Below is the list with its current value and (expected rate of return).
Emergency Fund - 25 lakhs (3.5%)
Fixed Deposits - 65 lakhs (7%)
PF/PPF/NPS - 25 lakhs (8%)
MF/Stocks - 25 lakhs (10%)
LIC Policies - 25 lakhs (no change)
Your current investments listed above will achieve a value of 3.5 crore at the time of retirement 4 years from now.

Apart from this you have mentioned properties worth 7.25 Cr. Assuming you will only use/liquidate them if required, so excluding them from consideration for now.

You total income is 2.30 lakhs per month (includes rent) and expenses are 75k per month. So there is potential to add to the above investments for the next 4 years.

I will assume your current expenses are sufficient for the lifestyle you want to continue post retirement.
You will require a corpus on retirement after 4 years to sustain your expenses adjusted with inflation of 6% which will be close to 1 lakh per month (at the time of retirement).
With this starting point, and adjusting for inflation of 6% each year, and life expectancy of 30 years post retirement you need a corpus of approx. 2.5 crore - again assumed this will earn a return of 8% for the 30 years.
If you can invest wisely and generate a slightly higher return of say 10%, the corpus requirement will be 2 crore.

Your current investments at the time of retirement with value of 3.5 crore is sufficient to cover your expenses for the next 30 years inflation adjusted at 6%.
And this is excluding the properties you own and additional investments you can make for the next 4 years.

Summary - You are more than stable as far as your financial state is concerned. You have a strong base to meet your retirement needs and also a potential to create wealth for the generations ahead.

I want to highlight/recommend few points -
1. Increase the medical Insurance for yourself and family to 1Crore as medical expenses will only increase in future.
2. Stop the Term Life Insurance and save the premium for investment. As you have no liabilities and net-worth is high enough to cover any outcomes in life ahead, this premium is a lost cause considering your strong financial state.
3. Revisit the LIC Policies you have and consider surrendering/stopping them if they are not nearing their maturity. They are not giving you enough cover and providing below par returns. So do discuss with a trusted licensed advisor and evaluate them. If they will mature in the next 4 years, ignore this point.
4. Post retirement period is a long duration of 30 years, so do consider getting a good advisor - a Certified Financial Planner who can guide you to plan your retirement well and help you design a portfolio for additional wealth creation as a legacy for your children/dependents.


Thanks & Regards
Janak Patel
Certified Financial Planner.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 11, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi, I have the following funds part of my SIP and the last 4 funds are my one time lump sum of 35K each and invested sometime in November last year. Are these good to hold (lump sum) and rest as SIP for another 5 years. 1 Kotak Flexicap Fund - Reg Gr 2 Kotak Flexicap Fund - Dir Gr 3 Tata Multi Asset Opp Dir Gr 4 TATA Nifty 50 Index Dir Pl 5 Technology Plan - Direct - Growth 6 Bandhan Sterling Value Fund-(Reg PIn) -Gr 7 Nifty Smallcap250 Quality 50 Index Fund - Dir - G 8 | HDFC Dividend Yield Direct Growth 9 Quant Large and Mid Cap Fund Direct Growth 10 Quant Multi Asset Fund Direct Growth 11 Groww Nifty Non Cyclical Consumer Index Fund Direct Growth 12 Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund Direct Growth Thanks in advance for your guidance.
Ans: You have invested in multiple funds through SIP and lump sum. Holding them for the next 5 years is a good approach. However, it is important to check if your portfolio is diversified, aligned with your goals, and tax-efficient.

Overlap Between Funds
Your portfolio has multiple funds from the same category.

Too many similar funds do not improve returns but make tracking difficult.

Checking fund overlap can help avoid duplication.

Actively Managed vs Index Funds
You have index funds in your portfolio.

Index funds do not offer downside protection in market corrections.

Actively managed funds can outperform the index in volatile markets.

Switching from index funds to actively managed funds can improve growth.

Direct vs Regular Funds
You have invested in direct funds.

Direct funds may seem cheaper, but they lack expert guidance.

Investing through an MFD with CFP credentials ensures better selection and tracking.

Regular funds provide better decision-making support over time.

Sector-Specific and Thematic Funds
You hold a technology fund.

Sector funds are high-risk, as they depend on one industry’s performance.

If the sector underperforms, returns may be negative for years.

A diversified approach reduces risk compared to sector-based investing.

Smallcap and Midcap Allocation
You have smallcap and midcap funds.

These funds can be highly volatile in the short term.

Holding them for 5+ years is necessary to reduce risk.

Ensure you rebalance if the portfolio gets too aggressive.

Multi-Asset and Dividend Yield Funds
Multi-asset funds provide stability during market corrections.

Dividend yield funds are suitable for conservative investors.

These funds help in balancing the portfolio between risk and return.

Final Insights
Reduce overlapping funds and focus on fewer, well-performing funds.

Exit index funds and shift to actively managed funds for better growth.

Consider switching from direct funds to regular funds for expert tracking.

Keep sector funds below 10% of your portfolio to avoid concentration risk.

Continue SIPs in high-quality diversified funds for long-term wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 13, 2025

Listen
Money
Can I run my family with 15 k exp and 20k retirement income
Ans: You have a monthly retirement income of Rs 20,000 and expect monthly expenses of Rs 15,000. On paper, this looks manageable, but there are important financial factors to consider. Let us analyse whether this income will be sufficient for the long term.

Cost of Living and Inflation Impact
Expenses will increase over time due to inflation.

If inflation is 6% per year, your Rs 15,000 monthly expenses may double in 12 years.

If income remains Rs 20,000, the gap between income and expenses will widen.

Healthcare and Medical Costs
Medical expenses increase with age.

Even with health insurance, out-of-pocket medical costs can rise.

If a medical emergency arises, your savings could be depleted quickly.

Emergency Fund Requirement
A sudden family emergency can strain finances.

Having at least 2–3 years' worth of expenses in a liquid fund is necessary.

If you do not have an emergency fund, your retirement income may not be sufficient.

Unplanned Expenses and Lifestyle Changes
New financial needs may arise, such as helping family members or home repairs.

You may want to travel, pursue hobbies, or engage in social activities.

A fixed retirement income can make such expenses challenging.

Investment Strategy for Long-Term Security
To beat inflation, invest a portion of savings in growth-oriented assets.

A mix of equity and debt funds will help generate better returns.

A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from equity funds can provide a higher monthly income.

Alternative Income Sources
Consider part-time work, freelancing, or consulting if possible.

Rental income or dividends from investments can support retirement cash flow.

Final Insights
Rs 20,000 may be enough now, but inflation and rising costs can make it insufficient later.

A combination of investments, emergency funds, and alternate income sources will provide financial security.

Regularly review and adjust your financial plan to sustain your retirement lifestyle.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 11, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hello sir, I have about 28 lakhs invested in different MF. Now i want a SWP of 35000 per month from that total fund. Looking at the current market situation I was either thinking if dividing the fund between debt 30% and equity 70%. But instead of investing a lumpsum amounts will it make more sense to park all my funds in a dynamic debt fund and then every month do SIP of maybe one lakh each to equity fund or balanced fund. Also i would like to know what difference will it make in my investment returns between sip and lumpsum except ofcourse averageing the market volatility in case of SIP and getting more UNITS if done lumpsum.
Ans: You have Rs 28 lakh invested in mutual funds and want to withdraw Rs 35,000 per month through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP). You are considering whether to invest the corpus as a lump sum in a 70% equity – 30% debt allocation or to park the full amount in a debt fund and do an SIP of Rs 1 lakh per month into equity.

Your goal should be to generate stable withdrawals while preserving your capital and ensuring growth. Below is a structured approach to managing your funds wisely.

Understanding SWP and Its Impact on Your Corpus
SWP is a cash flow strategy, allowing regular withdrawals while the remaining corpus continues to grow.

The key challenge is to balance withdrawals and growth so that the corpus does not deplete too soon.

Investing in a mix of debt and equity will ensure stability while benefiting from market growth.

Option 1: Investing 70% in Equity and 30% in Debt
This allocation is suitable for long-term growth. Equity provides growth, while debt ensures stability.

A balanced portfolio helps manage volatility and ensures a steady SWP.

The downside is that a lump sum investment in equity exposes you to market fluctuations.

If the market falls after investing, the SWP may lead to selling equity at a lower value, reducing corpus longevity.

Option 2: Parking in a Debt Fund and Doing Monthly SIPs
This reduces market timing risk by investing gradually.

Debt funds provide low but steady returns, protecting the corpus while equity exposure increases.

SIPs spread the risk over time, ensuring better price averaging.

The downside is that debt funds provide lower returns, which may impact the final corpus.

SIP vs Lump Sum: Key Differences
SIP helps in market averaging, reducing the impact of volatility.

Lump sum investment can generate higher returns if the market performs well.

SIP is better for those worried about market crashes, while lump sum works well for long-term investors willing to take higher risks.

Best Strategy for You
A hybrid approach will work best:

Step 1: Park Rs 28 lakh in a low-duration or dynamic debt fund.

Step 2: Start an SIP of Rs 1 lakh per month into equity for 24–28 months.

Step 3: Withdraw Rs 35,000 per month from the debt fund until equity allocation builds up.

Step 4: After 2–3 years, rebalance to maintain a 60% equity – 40% debt allocation for stability.

Tax Implications of SWP
Withdrawals from equity funds held for over 1 year attract 12.5% tax on LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh.

Withdrawals before 1 year attract 20% STCG tax.

Withdrawals from debt funds are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Final Insights
A mix of debt and equity will ensure growth and stability in your SWP plan.

Parking the corpus in a debt fund first and then gradually shifting to equity is a safer approach.

Rebalancing every 2–3 years will help manage risk and sustain withdrawals.

Keep track of taxation to optimise post-tax returns.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8098 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 12, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hello Sir, I am 46. Unemployed due to health reasons. I have 28 lakhs i want to invest in SWP . I need 35000 monthly. How long do I have before my fund runs out? How should I invest to make the most of it? I want my funds to appreciate as well to be atleast propionate to my need of 35000. Given- if i invest in lumpsum than I get higher number of units and if i take the SIP route it can negate the market volatility. Looking at the current market scanerio i believe it may take couple of years to see proper returns. I was also thinking of pooling the entire corpus in Aggressive debt funds and then do a SIP to an actively managed equity fund. Under these circumstances please provide fund names also. Thanks in advance.
Ans: You are 46 and unemployed due to health reasons. You need Rs 35,000 per month from your investments. Your goal is to make your funds last longer while allowing growth.

Let us analyse your options and create a plan.

Assessing Your Requirement
You need Rs 4.2 lakh per year (Rs 35,000 x 12 months).

Your corpus is Rs 28 lakh.

If you withdraw Rs 4.2 lakh annually without growth, your funds will last less than 7 years.

You need growth to sustain withdrawals for a longer period.

Challenges with a High SWP Rate
A SWP of 15% per year (Rs 4.2 lakh from Rs 28 lakh) is too high.

Safe withdrawal rates are usually 4-6% per year.

A high withdrawal rate will deplete your corpus fast.

Investment Strategy for SWP
You need a mix of equity and debt to balance growth and stability.

Step 1: Allocate Corpus Wisely
Equity (50%): Invest for growth.
Debt (50%): Keep funds for the next 5-6 years of withdrawals.
This approach helps maintain stability while allowing long-term appreciation.

Step 2: SWP from Debt Funds
Start your SWP from debt funds to avoid withdrawing from volatile equity investments.

Debt funds provide stability and minimise short-term risk.

This ensures your equity investments have time to grow.

Step 3: Systematic Transfer to Equity
Keep your equity allocation in a flexi-cap or multi-cap fund for diversification.

Invest in a systematic transfer plan (STP) from a debt fund to an equity fund.

This reduces market timing risk and balances volatility.

Expected Corpus Longevity
If your portfolio grows at 8-10% annually, your funds may last 10-12 years.

If the market performs well, your funds may last longer.

A lower withdrawal rate will further extend sustainability.

Alternative Options to Sustain Your Corpus
Reduce withdrawals: If possible, lower monthly expenses to Rs 25,000-30,000.

Part-time income: If health permits, explore work-from-home or passive income options.

Medical emergency fund: Keep at least Rs 2 lakh aside for medical needs.

Review investments: Rebalance every year to maintain growth and stability.

Final Insights
Your current withdrawal rate is high.

A balanced equity-debt approach can extend the longevity of your corpus.

Use SWP from debt funds and STP to equity for better returns.

Monitor the portfolio regularly to ensure sustainability.

If possible, reduce withdrawals slightly to make the corpus last longer.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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

Close  

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

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

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

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

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

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x