Hi Sir, I am 58 years old retired person with monthly rental income around 90k . Have 2 children 26 and 19 , both not settled yet . I have 2.85 in bank savings and fds. I have my own house and other properties worth 9 cr only, I need your your advise to plan my savings to diversify better so that my savings can give me atleast 3 lac a month as returns. My Monthly expenses are 1 lac min. A month, Kindly Advise

Ans: You are doing a commendable job with your financial planning, focusing on a variety of investment options. At almost 36 years old, earning around ?1.2 lakh monthly, and maintaining expenses up to ?60,000 per month, you have managed to save and invest diligently.

Existing Investments
Your current investments include:

ELSS: ?50,000 yearly
NPS: ?50,000 yearly
LIC: ?50,000 yearly
Mutual Funds: ?12,000 monthly
Stocks: ?40,000
Gold: ?1 lakh in SGB bonds and ?2 lakh in physical gold
PPF: ?20,000 yearly
EPF: ?10,000 monthly
Fixed Deposit: ?10 lakh
You are saving well and have diversified into various financial instruments. However, there are areas for improvement to ensure you achieve your financial goals while managing inflation and ensuring long-term growth.

Concerns and Goals
You mentioned concerns about inflation and the sufficiency of your savings. You are also contemplating buying a flat but worry about the financial burden of EMIs. Additionally, your parents live in a rented flat, which might also influence your decision to buy property.

Analysis of Current Investments
Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
ELSS is a good tax-saving instrument that offers potential for long-term growth. However, investing only ?50,000 annually might not be sufficient to keep pace with inflation. Consider increasing your ELSS contribution if possible.

National Pension System (NPS)
NPS is a solid option for retirement planning, offering tax benefits and long-term growth. However, be mindful of the investment choices within NPS, ensuring a good balance of equity and debt for optimal growth.

Life Insurance (LIC)
While LIC policies offer security, they often come with lower returns compared to other investment options. Ensure that your life insurance coverage is adequate for your needs, but consider other investment avenues for higher returns.

Insurance-cum-investment schemes
Insurance-cum-investment schemes (ULIPs, endowment plans) offer a one-stop solution for insurance and investment needs. However, they might not be the best choice for pure investment due to:
• Lower Potential Returns: Guaranteed returns are usually lower than what MFs can offer through market exposure.
• Higher Costs: Multiple fees in insurance plans (allocation charges, admin fees) can reduce returns compared to the expense ratio of MFs.
• Limited Flexibility: Lock-in periods restrict access to your money, whereas MFs provide more flexibility.
MFs, on the other hand, focus solely on investment and offer:
• Potentially Higher Returns: Investments in stocks and bonds can lead to higher growth compared to guaranteed returns.
• Lower Costs: Expense ratios in MFs are generally lower than the multiple fees in insurance plans.
• Greater Control: You have a wider range of investment options and control over asset allocation to suit your risk appetite.
Consider your goals!
• Need life insurance? Term Insurance plans might be suitable.
• Focus on growing wealth? MFs might be a better option due to their flexibility and return potential.


Mutual Funds
Investing ?12,000 monthly in a combination of large, mid, and small-cap mutual funds is a good strategy. Actively managed mutual funds often outperform index funds, offering better potential for returns. Ensure you are regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio.

Stocks
A direct investment in stocks of ?40,000 is a good start. Ensure you are diversifying across sectors and companies to mitigate risks. Regularly monitor and adjust your stock portfolio based on market conditions and performance.

Gold
Holding gold through SGB bonds and physical gold provides a hedge against inflation. However, ensure it doesn't constitute too large a portion of your portfolio, as gold typically doesn't provide significant returns compared to equities.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a safe and tax-efficient investment. Your annual contribution of ?20,000 is good for stable returns. However, considering its lock-in period and return rate, ensure it aligns with your long-term goals.

Employees' Provident Fund (EPF)
EPF contributions are beneficial for retirement, offering tax benefits and stable returns. Your monthly contribution of ?10,000 is a good base, contributing to long-term financial security.

Fixed Deposits (FD)
Fixed Deposits offer safety but with lower returns, often not keeping pace with inflation. Your ?10 lakh in FDs might be too conservative. Consider reallocating some funds to higher-return investments.

Recommendations for Diversification and Growth
Increase Equity Exposure
Equities tend to outperform other asset classes over the long term. Consider increasing your allocation to equity mutual funds or stocks. Actively managed funds often offer better returns compared to index funds, as fund managers can make strategic decisions to outperform the market.

Rebalance Your Portfolio
Regularly review and rebalance your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Diversification across different asset classes can help manage risk while aiming for higher returns.

Benefits of Regular Mutual Funds
Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) who is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide valuable guidance. Regular funds often come with advisory benefits that can help you make informed decisions, balancing growth and risk effectively.

Avoid Direct Mutual Funds
While direct mutual funds have lower expense ratios, they lack advisory services. This can be a disadvantage if you are not well-versed in market trends and investment strategies. Regular funds, through an MFD with CFP credentials, offer personalized advice and better support.

Maintain Adequate Insurance Coverage
Ensure your life insurance coverage is adequate to protect your family in case of unforeseen events. However, do not over-invest in insurance products as they generally offer lower returns compared to other investment options.

Assessing the Decision to Buy a Flat
Buying a flat is a significant financial decision. Here are some factors to consider:

Financial Burden of EMIs
Calculate the potential EMI and ensure it doesn't exceed 30-40% of your monthly income. Consider future expenses, such as children's education, while making this decision. Buying a flat might impact your cash flow and savings ability.

Renting vs. Buying
Evaluate the cost of renting versus buying. In some cases, renting might be more cost-effective and flexible, especially if property prices are high. Consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and taxes, when making your decision.

Long-term Goals
Ensure that buying a flat aligns with your long-term financial goals. If it hampers your ability to save for retirement or other goals, it might be better to wait or explore more affordable options.

Conclusion
Your current financial plan is robust, but there is always room for improvement. By increasing equity exposure, rebalancing your portfolio, and carefully evaluating the decision to buy a flat, you can ensure financial security and growth.

Remember, the key to successful financial planning is regular review and adjustment based on changing goals and market conditions. You are on the right track, and with some strategic adjustments, you can enhance your financial well-being.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: At 53, earning Rs 1.5 lakhs per month, you have a solid financial base. With significant investments in PF, superannuation, PPF, shares, and FDs, plus rental income, you're well-prepared for retirement. Your primary goals now are saving for retirement, your children's education and marriages, and ensuring financial stability. Let’s develop a strategy to address these goals.

Compliments and Encouragement
First, congratulations on building a diverse and substantial portfolio! Your dedication and smart decisions have provided a strong foundation. It's commendable that you've thought ahead about your children's futures and your retirement.

Current Financial Assets
You have the following assets:

PF: Rs 35 lakhs
Superannuation: Rs 30 lakhs
PPF: Rs 30 lakhs
Shares: Rs 35 lakhs
FD: Rs 16 lakhs
Monthly Rental Income: Rs 28,000
Three Flats
Monthly Saving Capacity
With a take-home salary of Rs 1.5 lakhs and Rs 28,000 from rentals, you have a steady income. Allocating Rs 50,000 monthly towards savings is a prudent decision. Let's explore how to effectively utilize these savings.

Goals: Retirement and Children’s Education & Marriage
Your goals are clear and significant: funding your retirement and supporting your children's education and marriages. With six years until retirement, a focused and strategic approach is essential.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Continue with or start a SIP. SIPs provide disciplined investing and leverage the power of compounding. They also help in averaging out market volatility. Considering your Rs 50,000 monthly savings, allocate a portion to SIPs in equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

Portfolio Diversification
Diversification reduces risk and enhances returns. Here's how you can diversify:

Equity Mutual Funds
Allocate a part of your Rs 50,000 monthly savings to equity mutual funds. These funds are ideal for long-term growth and can help build a substantial corpus by the time you retire.

Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds provide stability and preserve capital. They are suitable for short to medium-term goals, such as your children's education. Allocate a portion of your savings here to balance risk.

Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds, which invest in both equity and debt, offer a balanced approach. They provide growth and stability, making them ideal for medium-term goals.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds
Opt for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). A CFP offers valuable advice, periodic portfolio reviews, and rebalancing. Direct funds save on commissions but lack professional guidance, which can impact long-term returns.

Education and Marriage Fund
For your daughter's MBBS and son's education, consider opening a separate fund. Allocate part of your Rs 50,000 monthly savings to this fund. Use a mix of debt and equity mutual funds to match the timing of these expenses.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This fund ensures liquidity during unforeseen events without disrupting your long-term investments.

Evaluating Current Investments
Let’s analyze your current investments and how they fit into your overall strategy.

Provident Fund (PF) and Superannuation
These are secure investments providing guaranteed returns. Continue to keep these funds intact for retirement. They form the foundation of your retirement corpus.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is another safe investment with tax benefits. Continue investing in PPF to take advantage of compounding and tax-free returns.

Shares
Your shares worth Rs 35 lakhs are significant. Regularly review and rebalance this portfolio with the help of a CFP to maximize returns and manage risks.

Fixed Deposits (FDs)
FDs provide security but lower returns compared to other instruments. Keep them for liquidity and safety but consider gradually moving some funds to higher-yield investments.

Rental Income
Your Rs 28,000 monthly rental income is a steady source. Use this for day-to-day expenses or reinvest part of it for additional growth.

Insurance
Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance. Avoid investment-cum-insurance policies, as they usually offer lower returns. Opt for pure term insurance and invest the rest in mutual funds for better growth.

Retirement Planning
With six years to retirement, focus on building a substantial corpus. Calculate your post-retirement expenses and ensure your investments align to meet these needs. A mix of equity and debt funds will help maintain growth and stability.

Leveraging Technology
Use financial apps and platforms to track and manage your investments. These tools provide insights, track performance, and help in goal tracking.

Regular Portfolio Review and Rebalancing
Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals. Market conditions change, and so may your financial situation. A CFP can assist in rebalancing your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation.

Maximizing Tax Efficiency
Utilize tax-saving instruments within your portfolio. Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) offer tax benefits under Section 80C and are a good addition. Plan your investments to minimize tax liabilities and maximize post-tax returns.

Educating Yourself
Continue educating yourself about financial products and market trends. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and enhances your financial planning.

Monitoring Market Trends
Stay informed about market trends but avoid reacting to short-term fluctuations. Focus on long-term trends and adjust your strategy with the guidance of a CFP.

Final Insights
Achieving your financial goals requires disciplined saving, strategic investing, and regular review. With your current assets and monthly savings capacity, you're well-positioned to secure your retirement and support your children's education and marriages. Continue with SIPs, diversify your portfolio, and seek professional guidance. Your dedication and prudent planning will lead to financial success and stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in