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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8292 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 14, 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
V.VIJAYAKUMAR Question by V.VIJAYAKUMAR on Nov 14, 2024Hindi
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Dear Sir This is to get an advise on opting whether to clear the home loan (126 instalments Re.57000p.m) or to go for SIP. I am going to get around 40 lakh as retirement benefits shortly. Which is best option. I've no other financial commitments except this or any responsibilities. I just want peace of mind. Nothing else.

Ans: Congratulations on your upcoming retirement and achieving a debt-free, responsibility-free status. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide whether to clear the home loan or invest in SIPs. Each approach has its merits, but since you value peace of mind above all, we'll examine both from a holistic perspective.

1. Clearing the Home Loan
Immediate Debt-Free Status: By using Rs. 40 lakh to clear your home loan, you can become debt-free instantly. This would eliminate monthly EMI obligations of Rs. 57,000, giving you a sense of financial relief.

Interest Savings: Paying off the loan early will save you a substantial amount in interest. Over 126 remaining EMIs, the interest saved by closing the loan could outweigh potential SIP returns, depending on the interest rate of your home loan.

Emotional and Psychological Relief: For those seeking peace of mind, being debt-free is often invaluable. If not having the burden of a loan is your priority, this option ensures freedom from monthly repayments, letting you enjoy your retirement worry-free.

Financial Flexibility: Without the Rs. 57,000 monthly EMI, you’ll have additional flexibility. This can help you better manage your retirement finances or even allow for smaller, less risky investments over time.

2. Investing in SIPs
Potential for Higher Returns: Over the long term, equity SIPs typically offer higher returns compared to the interest you would save by paying off a loan. For an 8–10-year horizon, SIPs in a diversified portfolio can potentially grow the Rs. 40 lakh corpus, creating a larger retirement cushion.

Liquidity Advantage: By investing in SIPs, your money remains accessible. Should you need funds later, you can redeem SIPs, whereas funds used to clear the loan would be tied up.

Tax Benefits and Compounding: Investments in equity mutual funds benefit from compounding and, if held long-term, offer favorable capital gains taxation (LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%). This could result in net returns that outpace loan interest, but the market risks must be considered.

Balancing Monthly Expenses: Continuing the loan means a fixed monthly outflow of Rs. 57,000. Ensure your retirement income is comfortably meeting your lifestyle and monthly expenses before committing to SIPs with the entire Rs. 40 lakh.

Assessing Peace of Mind
Since peace of mind is your top priority, consider the following approach for a balanced solution:

Partial Loan Repayment and Partial SIP Investment: You could use a portion of the Rs. 40 lakh to reduce the outstanding principal on your loan. This would lower your EMI burden, freeing up some cash flow each month. The remaining amount could go into SIPs, allowing for wealth growth alongside a manageable EMI.

Emergency Fund Consideration: Retaining a portion of the Rs. 40 lakh in safe, liquid instruments (like a Fixed Deposit or Liquid Fund) will provide you with emergency backup funds. This ensures peace of mind while allowing for potential SIP growth.

Evaluate Your Risk Comfort: If market fluctuations don’t align with your peace of mind goal, paying off the home loan in full might be preferable. However, if you are comfortable with moderate risk and fluctuations, SIPs could offer better returns in the long run.

Final Insights
Given that your priority is peace of mind, a balanced approach might serve best: use a portion to reduce the home loan, and allocate the remainder towards SIPs or safer investments. This way, you retain growth potential while minimizing debt obligations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8292 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 18, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir, I'm 35 year. And getting 28lpa. Currently I'm invest in 6 SIPs (31k) monthly, 5k in NPS, 26k is personal loan, 17k car emi and purchasing 15k stock in every month. Stock buying I started from jan2024. I have around 25lakh in my sip fund and 10lakh other fund. Now I'm planning to buy a home that cost around 90 lakh. So my question is, can take the 80% home loan and keep my SIP. Or withdraw my all sip fund and reduce home loan amount. Btw my personal loan will complete end of this year. Please suggest withdraw the sip fund is good option or taking the home loan is good option.
Ans: It sounds like you're making some big financial decisions, and it's great that you're considering your options carefully. Taking out a home loan while keeping your SIPs intact could be a strategic move. It allows you to maintain your investment momentum while also spreading out the cost of your home purchase over time.

However, withdrawing your SIP funds to reduce the home loan amount could also be a viable option. It would lower your debt burden and potentially save you on interest payments in the long run.

Before making a decision, consider factors like the interest rates on the home loan versus the potential returns on your SIP investments. Also, think about your long-term financial goals and how each option aligns with them.

Consulting with a financial advisor could provide valuable insight into the best course of action based on your specific circumstances and goals. With careful planning, you'll be on track to achieving your dream of homeownership while securing your financial future.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8292 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 19, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, I am 31 years old, my monthly salary is 70 thousand. I have a existing home loan around 1986000 with ROI 9.25% for 29years. and till now through SIP I have invested 5 Lac and I keep liquid fund 2.5 Lac. My current balance including all SIP and liquid fund 9 Lac. I need a advise from you that I should repay my home with this 9 Lac or I should continue investing as SIP and continue EMI and repay homeloan as 1 or 2 EMI Extra in a year.
Ans: At 31, you have a strong financial foundation. Your disciplined SIP investments, liquid funds, and home loan management are appreciable. Let’s assess your options to help you make the best decision.

Analysing Your Current Financial Situation
Existing Home Loan
Your outstanding home loan of Rs 19.86 lakhs has a tenure of 29 years.
The interest rate is 9.25%, which impacts your long-term cash flow.
The EMI will consume a consistent portion of your salary over the years.
SIP Investments
You have already invested Rs 5 lakhs through SIPs.
Regular investments in SIPs help in wealth accumulation and compounding returns.
Your monthly SIPs are likely aligned with your financial goals.
Liquid Funds
You hold Rs 2.5 lakhs in liquid funds.
This provides a buffer for emergencies or short-term needs.
Options to Consider
Option 1: Use Rs 9 Lakhs to Prepay the Loan
Prepaying the loan can reduce the principal significantly.
This reduces the overall interest burden and loan tenure.
However, this locks your funds into a low-return liability.
Option 2: Continue SIPs and Pay Extra EMIs Annually
Continue your SIP investments for higher long-term returns.
Paying 1–2 extra EMIs yearly can reduce the tenure significantly.
This approach balances wealth creation and liability management.
Option 3: Split Funds Between Prepayment and Investments
Use a portion of Rs 9 lakhs for partial prepayment.
Invest the remaining amount in SIPs or other high-return instruments.
This ensures debt reduction and continued wealth growth.
Evaluating Return on Investment
Home Loan Interest vs SIP Returns
Your home loan interest rate of 9.25% is a guaranteed expense.
Equity SIPs typically yield higher returns, averaging 12–15% annually.
Investing in SIPs could create wealth faster than prepaying the loan.
Tax Benefits on Home Loan
You may claim tax deductions on home loan interest and principal.
Prepaying reduces the tax-saving benefits.
Recommended Approach
Maintain Emergency Liquidity
Retain Rs 2.5 lakhs or more in liquid funds.
This ensures financial stability during unforeseen situations.
Focus on SIP Investments
Continue SIPs to benefit from long-term compounding.
Increase your SIP contributions gradually with salary increments.
Make Partial Prepayments
Use a portion of Rs 9 lakhs for partial prepayment.
Aim to reduce the principal significantly to lower interest outflows.
Pay Extra EMIs
Commit to paying at least 2 extra EMIs annually.
This reduces your loan tenure and interest burden effectively.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
Do Not Over-Allocate to Loan Prepayment
Avoid locking all your funds into loan repayment.
This limits your liquidity and investment potential.
Avoid Real Estate Investments
Real estate involves high costs, illiquidity, and uncertain returns.
Stick to diversified mutual funds or equity investments instead.
Maintain Disciplined Financial Planning
Ensure a balanced approach between debt reduction and wealth creation.
Review your financial goals annually for necessary adjustments.
Final Insights
Your financial journey is off to a great start. Continue with SIP investments to maximise long-term growth. Use surplus funds for partial loan prepayments and extra EMIs to manage your debt efficiently. Balancing both strategies will ensure a secure financial future and help you achieve your goals effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4465 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 27, 2025

Career
Jee main 2025,my son got 95.2%tile,71104 rank ,ews rank 10111,home state punjab ,can he get cse,ece,data science,it, branch in any nit,iiit,gftis or which branches he will get in these institutes .
Ans: Varinder Sir, Providing precise admission chances for each student can be challenging. Some reputed educational websites offer ‘College Predictor’ tools where you can check possible college options based on your percentile, category, and preferences. However, for a more accurate understanding, here’s a simple yet effective 9-step method using JoSAA’s past-year opening and closing ranks. This approach gives you a fair estimate (though not 100% exact) of your admission chances based on the previous year’s data.

Here is, How to Predict Your Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main Results – A Step-by-Step Guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Admission Chances Using JoSAA Data
Step 1: Collect Your Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your JEE Main percentile
Your category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Your Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories both Home State (HS) i.e. State you belong to & also Other State (OS).
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in, separately for HS & OS Categories for a quick reference.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.

Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engineering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your admissions!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know more on 'Careers | Health | Money | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4465 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 27, 2025

Career
My son got 93.4 percentile jee main . He got eee bit mesra and cse in srm ktr which prospect is better?
Ans: Sharmistha Madam, prefer BIT-M-EEE. Explore more options for your daughter as back-ups by knowing the JoSAA Counselling Opening & Closing Ranks of last year. Step 1: Collect Your Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your JEE Main percentile
Your category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Your Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories both Home State (HS) i.e. State you belong to & also Other State (OS).
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in, separately for HS & OS Categories for a quick reference.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.

Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engineering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your admissions!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know more on 'Careers | Health | Money | Relationships'

Step 1: Collect Your Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your JEE Main percentile
Your category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Your Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories both Home State (HS) i.e. State you belong to & also Other State (OS).
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in, separately for HS & OS Categories for a quick reference.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.

Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engineering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your admissions!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know more on 'Careers | Health | Money | Relationships'.

...Read more

Prof Suvasish

Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |598 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 27, 2025

Career
I have already appeared for the JEE Main and secured a 95.15 percentile, which is close to the previous year's cut-off. My query is whether it is possible to select both options JEE and NFATso that if I do not qualify through my JEE score, my application can be considered based on my NFAT score instead. If selecting both options is permissible, could you please guide me on how to do so while filling out the application form? Your assistance on this matter would be greatly appreciated.
Ans: No, candidates cannot apply using both JEE Main and NAFT scores for the same admissions. JEE Main scores are used for admissions to engineering programs at NITs, IIITs, and other participating institutions, while NAFT scores are used for admissions to NAFT-affiliated universities. These are distinct admission processes, and only one set of scores can be used.

...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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