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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6347 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 11, 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 28, 2024Hindi
Money

Dear Sir, I am 55 years old working in private company. I am investing in following MF monthly, Nippon Small Cap - 10000, Axis Small cap - 10000, HSBC Mid Cap - 10000, ICICI Equity & Debt - 15000, Franklin India Prima fund - 15000, HDFC Balanaced Advantage - 20000. My current MF value is Rs. 1.34 Crores. Apart from this i have invested in Stocks - 36 Lac, PF - 45 Lac, NPS - 22 Lac, FD - 35 Lac. I have taken Health Insurance. I require around 40 Lac for my daughter marriage. 1. I want to know whether my MF portfolio is good to continue or any changes to be made for better return. 2. I will be retiring in 3 years. How i need manage my funds / invest further to achieve 5 Crores retirement fund.

Ans: You've done a commendable job with your investments. Balancing between mutual funds, stocks, PF, NPS, and FDs is impressive. Your dedication to securing your daughter's marriage fund and planning for retirement shows foresight and responsibility. Let's analyze and optimize your portfolio for the best possible returns.

Current Mutual Fund Portfolio

Your current mutual fund investments are diversified across various categories. This includes small cap, mid cap, equity & debt, and balanced advantage funds. Each type serves a unique purpose, balancing risk and return.

Small Cap Funds

Small cap funds have high growth potential but come with significant risk. Your investments in Nippon Small Cap and Axis Small Cap Funds are great for high returns over the long term. Given your proximity to retirement, it might be wise to reduce exposure to mitigate risk.

Mid Cap Funds

Mid cap funds like HSBC Mid Cap offer a balance between risk and return. They can provide substantial growth but are less volatile than small cap funds. Keeping a portion in mid cap is sensible, but consider reducing the allocation as you near retirement.

Equity & Debt Funds

ICICI Equity & Debt Fund provides a balanced approach, combining equity growth and debt stability. This fund type aligns well with your nearing retirement, offering moderate risk and steady returns.

Balanced Advantage Funds

HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund adjusts its allocation between equity and debt based on market conditions. This adaptability is beneficial for reducing risk while aiming for reasonable growth, making it suitable for pre-retirement phase.

Evaluation of the Portfolio

Diversification and Risk Management

Your portfolio is well-diversified across different fund types. However, considering your retirement in 3 years, a higher allocation towards stable, low-risk investments would be prudent. Shifting from high-risk small and mid cap funds to more stable options can protect your corpus.

Performance and Returns

Active funds have the potential to outperform the market. Your selection of actively managed funds is excellent. Regular monitoring and occasional rebalancing can enhance performance. Consult your Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice.

Strategies for Future Investments
Risk Reduction

As retirement approaches, prioritize capital preservation. Gradually move funds from high-risk to low-risk investments. Consider increasing allocation in debt funds and balanced advantage funds. These provide stability and consistent returns.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)

Implementing an SWP post-retirement ensures a steady income while keeping your investments growing. Plan withdrawals from your corpus strategically to balance between immediate needs and long-term growth.

Power of Compounding

Continue leveraging the power of compounding. Even conservative investments can grow significantly over time. Start transitioning funds early to maximize compound interest benefits while minimizing risks.

Managing Your Other Investments
Stocks

Your Rs 36 lakh in stocks should be evaluated for risk and return. Diversify across stable, high-dividend stocks to generate regular income. Consider reducing exposure to volatile stocks.

Provident Fund (PF)

Your PF of Rs 45 lakh is a substantial and safe retirement corpus. Continue contributions and leverage tax benefits. This fund provides a secure foundation for your retirement.

National Pension System (NPS)

With Rs 22 lakh in NPS, you have a tax-efficient retirement tool. Continue maximizing contributions. NPS offers a mix of equity and debt, providing growth with stability. Consider shifting allocation towards safer options as you near retirement.

Fixed Deposits (FD)

Your Rs 35 lakh in FDs ensures liquidity and safety. Continue using FDs for emergency funds and short-term needs. They offer guaranteed returns, aligning well with your low-risk strategy.

Planning for Your Daughter's Marriage
Marriage Fund Allocation

You need Rs 40 lakh for your daughter’s marriage. Keep this fund in low-risk, highly liquid investments. Short-term debt funds, FDs, or high-interest savings accounts are ideal. Avoid equity exposure for this goal due to market volatility.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

If you haven't already, consider SIPs for a targeted marriage fund. SIPs in debt funds or balanced funds can help accumulate the required amount steadily. Regular contributions will build a substantial corpus by the time needed.

Achieving Your Rs 5 Crore Retirement Goal
Rebalancing Your Portfolio

Shift focus from high-risk to low-risk investments. Increase allocation in debt funds, balanced advantage funds, and other stable options. This transition should start now to align with your retirement timeline.

Increasing Contributions

Maximize your contributions to PF and NPS. Both offer tax benefits and long-term growth. Utilize any available tax-saving schemes to boost your retirement corpus.

Professional Guidance

Regularly consult your CFP. Their expertise will help you navigate market changes, optimize your portfolio, and ensure you stay on track towards your Rs 5 crore goal.

Regular Review

Conduct annual reviews of your portfolio. Adjust based on performance, market conditions, and your changing needs. Stay informed about economic trends and investment opportunities.

Final Insights
You've built a robust and diversified portfolio. Transitioning from high-risk to low-risk investments as you near retirement is crucial. Protecting your capital while ensuring steady growth will help achieve your Rs 5 crore retirement fund.

Stay disciplined with your investment strategy. Regularly consult your CFP for personalized advice. With careful planning and smart adjustments, you can secure a comfortable and financially stable retirement.

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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I am 50 working professional. Below is my MF portfolio . 1. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund 2.6 lakhs + 10K SIP 2. PGIM India Midcap Opportunities Fund 1.85 L Value + 5K SIP 3. Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund 80K 4. Axis Small Cap Fund 1.85 Lakhs Value + 5K SIP 5. Axis Gold Fund 75K Value + 5K SIP 6. Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity Fund 70K 7. Quant Multi Asset Fund 50K 8. SBI Magnum Income Fund 50K 9. ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund 50K 10. Quant Active Fund 50K 11. ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund 25K I want to build a retirement corpus of 2 crore in 10 years. I am planning to invest around 50K every month. Plus i have. surplus of 4Lakks which i want to invest in few of the MFs above. Planning to exit Canara Robeco bluechip and Axis Small cap soon. Please suggest if any changes you want me to do.
Ans: Given your goal of building a retirement corpus of 2 crores in 10 years and your current portfolio, here are some suggestions:

Increase SIP Contributions: Consider increasing your SIP amounts in high-performing funds like Parag Parikh Flexi Cap and PGIM India Midcap Opportunities Fund, which have shown good potential for long-term growth.

Review and Consolidate: Evaluate the performance of all your funds and consider consolidating your portfolio to fewer, well-performing funds to simplify management and potentially enhance returns.

Focus on Quality: Prioritize funds with strong track records, consistent performance, and experienced fund management teams. Consider adding large-cap and diversified equity funds for stability and balanced growth.

Asset Allocation: Ensure a balanced asset allocation across equity, debt, and gold funds based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon. Reallocate surplus funds strategically to maintain a diversified portfolio.

Regular Review: Monitor your portfolio regularly and make adjustments as needed based on changes in market conditions, fund performance, and your financial goals.

Consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances and goals.

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 17, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, I am 43 years old and have started MFs last year only. My portfolio is HDFC Top 100 - 2000 per month , HDFC Mid Cap Opportunities Fund - 2000 per month , ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund - 2000 per month , Kotak Small Cap Fund - 2000 per month , Nippon India Small Cap Fund - 2000 per month , Nippon India Gold Savings Fund - 5000 per month , SBI Small Cap Fund - G - 2000 per month , SBI Contra Fund - 2000 per month , UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund - 3000 per month, ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund - Growth - 3000 per month & Nippon India Large Cap Fund (G) - 2000 Per month. Total of Rs 27000 per month. Also, i also do lumpsum investments in the same mutual funds above which averages around 40k per month. Thats a total of apprx 67k per month. My long term horizon is 15 plus years. My question is, is the MF portfolio balanced enough? Also with the said investment, will i be able to accumulate 5 crore in 15 years ? Also, i have around 20 lacs in FD. Should i transfer around 10lacs from that FD to MFs to get better returns and keep the other 10 lacs FD as contingency fund? Please guide?
Ans: Your MF portfolio is diversified across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, gold, and index funds, which is good. However, it leans heavily towards small and mid-cap funds, which are riskier. Consider rebalancing to include more large-cap or balanced funds to reduce risk. To aim for 5 crores in 15 years, you'd need an annualized return of approximately 12-15%, which is ambitious but not impossible given market history. A Certified Financial Planner can help optimize your portfolio for this goal.

Transferring 10 lacs from FD to MFs could potentially yield higher returns over the long term, but ensure you maintain an emergency fund. Keeping 10 lacs in FD for emergencies is prudent. Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice tailored to your needs and goals.

..Read more

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir I’m 39 Male. I’m investing in MF from start of this year for buying a house and for retirement. I’m planning to invest long for next 15-20 yrs. Also I have 3-4 loans which will get finished next year 2025 end. So I’m planning to start increase my MF amount considerably. Please review my portfolio and let me know if I have to remove, add or make any changes Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 fund direct growth 1500 PM UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund 1000 PM ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund Direct Growth 1000 PM HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund Direct Growth 1000 PM HDFC Midcap Oppurtunities Fund Direct Plan Growth 1000 PM AXIS Small Cap Fund Direct Growth 1000 PM JM Value Fund Direct Growth 1000 PM Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Direct 1000 PM Nippon India Corporate Bond Fund Direct Growth plan 1000 PM P2P investment 3500 PM for 3 yrs at 15% fixed return
Ans: It's excellent to see your commitment towards investing for both short-term goals like buying a house and long-term goals like retirement. Let's review your portfolio and suggest any adjustments:
1. Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 Fund Direct Growth: This fund provides exposure to the top 100 companies listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange, offering diversification and growth potential in the global tech sector. It can be a suitable addition for long-term wealth accumulation.
2. UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund: Investing in an index fund like UTI Nifty 50 offers exposure to the top 50 companies in the Indian equity market. It provides stability and diversification, complementing your other equity investments.
3. ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund Direct Growth: Bluechip funds focus on large-cap stocks with strong fundamentals, making them relatively less volatile. It's a prudent choice for stability and capital preservation.
4. HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund Direct Growth: This fund dynamically manages its equity exposure based on market conditions, offering a blend of growth and downside protection. It can be suitable for investors seeking a balanced approach.
5. HDFC Midcap Opportunities Fund Direct Plan Growth and AXIS Small Cap Fund Direct Growth: These funds provide exposure to mid-cap and small-cap segments, respectively, offering growth potential but with higher volatility. Ensure you're comfortable with the risk associated with these segments.
6. JM Value Fund Direct Growth and Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Direct: Both these funds follow value investing principles and focus on investing in fundamentally sound companies at reasonable valuations. They can be suitable for long-term wealth creation.
7. Nippon India Corporate Bond Fund Direct Growth: Investing in a corporate bond fund provides stability and income generation through fixed-income securities. It's a prudent choice for diversification and managing risk.
8. P2P Investment: Peer-to-peer lending can offer attractive returns but comes with higher risk compared to traditional investments. Ensure you've assessed the risk-reward profile and have a diversified portfolio to mitigate risks.
Index Funds:
• Index funds offer broad market exposure by tracking a specific index, such as the Nifty 50 or the Nasdaq 100. They provide diversification and low-cost access to the market, making them suitable for long-term investors.
• However, index funds are passively managed, meaning they aim to replicate the performance of the underlying index rather than outperforming it. While this reduces management fees and turnover costs, it also limits the potential for alpha generation.
• As a result, index funds may not capture opportunities for outperformance during market upswings or provide downside protection during downturns. Investors seeking higher returns may prefer actively managed funds that aim to outperform the market through strategic stock selection and portfolio management.
Direct Funds:
• Direct funds allow investors to purchase mutual fund units directly from the asset management company, bypassing intermediaries like distributors or brokers. This can result in lower expense ratios compared to regular funds, as there are no distributor commissions involved.
• However, direct fund investors are responsible for conducting their own research, selecting suitable funds, and monitoring their investments. This requires a certain level of financial literacy and investment expertise to make informed decisions.
• On the other hand, investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who holds the necessary credentials and expertise can provide valuable guidance and support. A CFP can help investors navigate the complexities of the financial markets, select appropriate investment strategies, and optimize their portfolio allocations based on individual goals and risk tolerance.
Considering your investment portfolio, it's essential to evaluate the role of both index funds and direct funds in achieving your financial objectives. While index funds offer cost-effective market exposure, direct funds provide the potential for active management and outperformance.
As a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), I recommend a balanced approach that incorporates both index funds and direct funds based on your risk profile and investment goals. Periodic reviews of your portfolio and ongoing guidance from a CFP can help ensure that your investment strategy remains aligned with your evolving needs and objectives.
Remember, investing is a journey, and it's essential to stay informed, stay disciplined, and seek professional guidance when needed. With the right approach and support, you can navigate the financial markets with confidence and work towards achieving your long-term financial goals.

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Asked by Anonymous - Sep 20, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I'm 37 and I just started to invest in MFs regularly. My investments are listed below. Except a couple of them, all of them are either 1 month to a few days old. As mentioned below, started SIP of 40000 between Motilal Oswal Nifty Midcap 150 and Nippon india small cap. I would like to invest 40000 more in SIPs making my total investment as 1CR over the next 10 years, in the hopes of creating a portfolio of 2 CR with a 12% return on year. I understand that there are 11 MFs here but appreciate your suggestions on trimming this down while meeting the above mentioned financial goal. Thanks. 1. Motilal Oswal Nifty 500 Momentum 50 Index Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 50000: Current Value 50000: 2. Nippon India Nifty 500 Momentum 50 Index Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 50000: Current Value: 50000: 3. Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 50000: Current Value:70277: 4. Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Reg-G: One Time: Investment: 24998: Current Value:38598: 5. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 50000: Current Value: 52727: 6. Axis ELSS Tax Saver Dir-G: One Time: Investment:30000: Current Value: 63863: 7. Nippon India Large Cap Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 49999.99: Current Value: 52358: 8. Motilal Oswal Midcap Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 50000: Current Value: 54061: 9. Quant Small Cap Dir-G: One Time: Investment: 100000: Current Value: 103437: 10. Motilal Oswal Nifty Midcap 150 Dir-G: SIP: Investment:19999.98 Current Value: 20319: 11. Nippon India Small Cap Dir-G: SIP: Investment: 20000: Current Value 20040:
Ans: 1. Nifty 500 Momentum 50 Index is a recently introduced index and hence also your funds based on this index. The back tested results look attractive however I recommend you to monitor them closely for 2-3 years and if you feel not sure about their progress you may exit and redeploy proceeds into PPFAS flexicap fund and Nippon large cap fund.

2. The additional 40 K sip proposed maybe split between either ELSS(for tax saving too) or PPFAS flexicap and Nippon India large cap fund.

3. You may merge your ELSS investments into one fund, my advice would be Mirae Asset ELSS.

4. This will help rationalize number of funds in your portfolio from 10(+2) to 7.

5. Discipline, focus and periodic review in MF investment are a must!

6. As you reach closer to your target transfer the gains from equity funds to liquid/debt funds to protect it from volatility.

I am quite hopeful that you may very well achieve the intended target with the right approach.

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

You may follow us on X at @mars_invest for updates.

Happy Investing!!

...Read more

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Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Sep 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 07, 2024Hindi
Relationship
I met a women through a matrimonial site. I live abroad and she lives in India. I am 42 and she is 40 years old. We spoke for about 6 months. Then I came to India. Spent some time together and even met the parents. We both like each other. And have the blessings of the parents. But the problem is distance. I am very close to attaining citizenship. But still see that the process and getting an OCI could take at least 2 years. She has a good job with the central government in India. She has decent career prospects, in the country where I live. Initially, she was not interested in marrying anyone living abroad. I raised this with her when we spoke. She had come to where I live for a short diploma course, and was okay in talking with me. When I met her parents, they were also okay with her moving abroad. So far things have been good, but now we are trying to fix the dates for marriage, and trying to solve the long distance issue. I suggested that she could take a sabbatical and spend some time, or if possible pursue higher education. so she need not leave her job in India. Given her current background she also has good career prospects already. However she panics now every time I try to breach this topic. She is scared even to research n life abroad, and now she feels it is better we break up. She admits that , she is a chronic overthinker, I have been very careful in dealing with difficult topics. She has had a relatively easy life, whereas I am used to dealing with challenges personal and professional setbacks. It is really difficult to connect with someone, irrespective of age. I have worked for 18 years in India, and not keen to go through the toxic culture and harsh corporate life. She has a transferable job in India, so even in India we might struggle to be together. I am okay with retiring, from a corpoarte jb and seeking another career which would keep me financially independant and help me lead a meanigful existene. I am exploring ways, but thiis is going to take time. We both considered all the scenarios, and agreed that if she finds a good job abroad, would be relatiely the easier path. But now she is not even ready to consider this and becomes very anxious. . I feel I am more, happy healthy living abroad than in India. I was diabetic in India, and am now off medicines , after moving abroad. It has been easier for me to lead a happy and healthy life abroad, even though I live alone. I am wondering how to approach this. I do not want to hurt anyone. I can understand why she is anxious. I have told her that she does not have to leave her job, she only has to research if she has good prospects. I even offered to get her in touch with folks who have made such transition. I gave her contact details of consultants who can advic her on her career prospects. Visa etc is not an issue. Please advise if I can salvage this relationship or better to accept defeat. I really like her and do not want to hurt her.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,

I understand your concerns. It is a tough choice- both for you and her. On one hand, we can't completely deny her concerns either. She has a good job here and the fear is only fair. But, given her chronic overthinking, she must have already created a worse scenario in her head. It sounds like you both are in a difficult spot where you care for each other deeply but life-changing decisions are creating anxiety. No matter how much you tell her, it isn't going to help. She has to come to terms with it herself. but there are some things you can do to speed up the process-

Acknowledge the fear- Don't make her feel like she is wrong to think this way, or that she is merely overthinking. There is some logic to her fears. Acknowledge that. It does not mean you are encouraging them. Just let her know that any big life decisions are bound to cause some panic in a person and her feelings are completely valid.

Encourage her to take small steps- Instead of asking her to talk to people who have made the shift, try casually including stories of such people in a normal daily conversation once in a while. It would not feel like a commitment but also give her an idea.

Frame the discussion in a better way- For instance, instead of focusing on the move, discuss the life you will be building together. This will give her a scope to see what she can gain if only she can get over her fears.

Do not rush- Big life decisions can't be taken in a hurry. So, give her that space and time. In the meantime, you can continue with life as it was. Let her know that there isn't a timeframe within which she has to decide. This isn't an ultimatum. Sometimes a few kind words can make all the difference.

It's still not time to give up. Is she worth trying a little more? If yes, try. Create a space that is free of judgment where she can openly share her worries, no matter how trivial they might be. It can seem that you are putting in all the effort, but for a chronic overthinker, even considering or trying to overcome a set fear is a big task. Give her a little more time. I am sure things will work out soon.

Best Wishes.

...Read more

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |314 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Sep 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
So, i've started talking to this girl who was a classmate during my college. We've never talked all this time... But we started talking only after 7 years... She was currently working near my home town.. and i am working in a neighbouring state. It is 3 or 4months now.. we are talking and we liked each other...like.. we were in the same situations in life... Like.. we both lost our mothers.. and we are from the same community.. but the deadlock came here in the guise of religion. She belongs to one and i belong to another... Even though we both from same caste... We had a discussion before like.. even though we like each other... she cant move forward in relation because of religion. We had am understanding for sometime... But recently we had a discussion over the same topic and we had a fight... Now the girl and i are not fully talking to each other... Cause she was frightened on what could happen to us if we move forward in a relationship and it fails... Because we are not a stage to try and test things because we both are 29 and you know how it will be in family for a girl... So pleaseee give me advice how to save this relationship... Because i dont want to miss this girl at all. Please...
Ans: Dear Anonymous,

I understand that you are in a tough spot, but if she has truly made up her mind not to proceed with the relationship, especially based on something as sensitive as religion, I cannot advise you to pursue her or try to convince her further. The only thing you can do is have one last open discussion where you express your feelings and the things you are willing to do to make this relationship work out. And for one last time, you can ask her, and only ask, if she would be willing to give it another try. If the answer is still a no, I am sorry, but it would not be wise to continue pushing this. If religion is important to her or an integral part of her family values, it would be selfish to ask her to set that aside for you.

I hope things work out for you.


Best Wishes.

...Read more

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |314 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Sep 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi sir, I’m planning to start a new life with my girlfriend for rest of my life leaving our both families aside. Reason to do that is, I’m recently married with other girl, and my gf married to other guy. We both didn’t even completed 6 months. We are not happy with our life partners. The reason we Got married to other is lack of courage to fight elders by my girlfriend but now she is ready to do fight or even leave them aside for me and start a new complete life.I’m a simple corporate working guy. We are completely decided to live together whatever happens. Our parents wont accept us as they are thinking about our married partners. Whats the best advice you would give to us to start new life in other state?
Ans: Dear Anonymous,

This is a huge decision. First, I would advise both of you to think this through. I am not discouraging you because a broken marriage is far better than a forced one. But if you have even the slightest tinge of doubt, don't rush it. A lot of people are involved in this.

Here are my two cents-

Respect your current marriage- Even if you decide to leave your spouses, you have to handle this situation responsibly and with respect. You are in love with each other, but your current partners are going to suffer for it, through no fault of their own. The least you can do is part ways with kindness and integrity.

Legalities- Divorces can be a long and complicated process. It takes a financial and mental toll on people. Be prepared for that, especially since you do not have the support of your family.

Mental health- Here I am not only talking about your mental health, you need to consider your current spouse's mental health too. And though leaving behind your family seems to be the only option, it is still a big decision. Make sure both you and your girlfriend are in the right frame of mind when you finalize the decision.

As for building a new life in a new city, as exciting as it is, it will be equally challenging. Plan everything to the last detail- finances, living arrangements, job, etc. Before you make the move, make sure both of you are financially independent and self-sufficient. That's the only way to tackle any hurdles.

My best advice is to make this decision very carefully and approach the situation with empathy for all parties involved. I urge you to be honest with your current partner, instead of ever resorting to gaslighting. This is on you, but it would be easy to pin this on your spouse. Don't take the easy route. Take the right one.

I hope things work out for you with no one getting irreparably hurt.

Best wishes.

...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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