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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 11, 2025

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 - Sep 10, 2025Hindi
Money

Hi Sir, My age is 38. My annual CTC 12 lacs and my partner salary is monthly 55000. I have 3 mutual funds - 2 mutual fund is one time investment with 1 lac invested in 2023 and 1 mutual fund is monthly 3000 invested in 2021 have 1 LIC - 2200 invested in 2023 and 1 FD - 50000 invested in 2025 and 1 SSY of 2500 invested in 2025. Can you tell me how much more i need to do monthly saving so that my both kids education expense get sorted. My son is in 8 std and my daughter is 2 years 11 months old.

Ans: You have already started good habits like mutual funds, LIC, SSY, and FD.
That’s a positive step towards your children’s future.

Let’s now study everything from all angles.
We will plan how to take it further in a simple and structured way.

» Start with Understanding Your Financial Picture

– Your age is 38.
– Your annual CTC is Rs. 12 lakhs.
– Your partner earns Rs. 55,000 per month.
– This gives your family a strong income base.
– You already have investments across different options.
– You are concerned mainly about children’s education goals.
– That focus is absolutely right at this stage.

» Look at Existing Investments First

– One-time Mutual Fund: Rs. 1 lakh in 2023.
– Monthly SIP: Rs. 3,000 started in 2021.
– LIC Policy: Rs. 2,200 monthly started in 2023.
– Fixed Deposit: Rs. 50,000 in 2025.
– SSY: Rs. 2,500 monthly for daughter in 2025.

– These are a good start but not enough yet.
– They won’t fully cover higher education costs.
– But you already have a strong base to build on.

» Age and Education Timeline of Your Children

– Son: In 8th Std now.
– He will go to college in 4–5 years.
– Post-graduation may happen 7–8 years from now.

– Daughter: Now 2 years and 11 months old.
– Her college will begin in about 14 years.
– Post-graduation would be 18 years from now.

– These time frames help us plan your SIP amount.

» Current SIP in Mutual Funds

– You are doing Rs. 3,000 monthly since 2021.
– That is a good discipline.
– But this amount alone is not enough.
– The power of SIP works best with goal planning.
– We need to increase monthly saving with clear targets.

» LIC Policy Should Not Be Treated as Investment

– You are paying Rs. 2,200 monthly for LIC.
– LIC traditional plans give low return.
– They mix insurance with investment.
– It is better to keep them separate.

– If this policy is a ULIP or Endowment, consider surrender.
– Check the surrender value.
– Reinvest it in mutual funds through a CFP via MFD.
– This gives better growth and flexibility.

» FD Amount Is Too Small for Future Goals

– FD gives safety, but low returns.
– It may not beat education inflation.
– Don’t rely on FD for college expenses.
– Instead, move this to mutual funds for long-term goals.

– Use a debt fund if goal is within 2–3 years.
– For longer goals, use balanced or hybrid mutual funds.

» SSY for Daughter Is a Good Step

– SSY gives attractive interest and tax benefits.
– Maturity at 21 years is perfect for daughter’s wedding.
– Keep this going without change.
– But remember, SSY is locked-in till 21 years.
– Use mutual funds for education planning separately.

» Estimate Future Education Costs for Son

– College starts in 4–5 years.
– Engineering or medicine can cost Rs. 15–25 lakhs.
– Abroad education can cost even more.
– You may need around Rs. 20 lakhs minimum.

– Start a dedicated mutual fund SIP for his goal.
– Increase SIP amount to Rs. 12,000–15,000 per month.
– Keep this fund separate for son’s education only.

– Use hybrid or multi-cap mutual funds.
– Review performance every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

» Plan for Daughter’s Education Separately

– You have 14–18 years for her education.
– This gives you power of compounding.
– Start new SIP of Rs. 6,000–7,000 monthly only for her.
– You can gradually increase this as your income grows.
– Use diversified equity mutual funds with long-term view.
– Equity helps beat inflation and grow capital.

– You can use step-up SIP option.
– Increase SIP amount by Rs. 500–1000 every year.

» Don’t Mix Both Kids’ Goals in One Investment

– Keep separate SIPs for son and daughter.
– This keeps goal planning clear.
– You can withdraw at right time without confusion.
– Also easier to track how much you have saved for each.

» Avoid Index Funds for Education Goals

– Index funds only track market, no active decisions.
– No protection during market fall.
– No fund manager to handle volatility.
– For kids’ education, you need active growth and risk control.
– Actively managed funds are better in such cases.
– These funds adjust better to market cycles.

» Avoid Direct Mutual Funds Platforms

– Direct funds may look cheaper.
– But no support or monitoring is provided.
– Wrong fund choice can delay your kids’ goals.
– Investing through regular plan via MFD + CFP is better.
– You get personalised advice and portfolio rebalancing.
– You also get updates on market and fund performance.

» Emergency Fund is Also Very Important

– Do you have emergency savings equal to 6 months’ expense?
– If not, please build that first.
– Use liquid mutual funds or sweep FDs.
– This helps you continue SIPs even during job loss or emergencies.
– Kids’ goals should never be stopped midway.

» Consider Term Insurance for Risk Protection

– Check if you have life insurance cover.
– Your LIC plan may not be enough.
– Take term insurance based on your income and liability.
– Premium is low and gives high protection.
– This keeps your kids’ future safe even if something happens to you.

» Use Annual Bonus or Hike Wisely

– Every year, you may get hike or bonus.
– Use part of it to increase SIP amount.
– Even Rs. 1,000 extra per SIP makes huge difference.
– Long-term SIP + Step-up SIP works very powerfully.

» Involve Your Spouse in Planning

– Your partner earns Rs. 55,000 per month.
– She can also start SIP in daughter’s name.
– You can divide responsibilities equally.
– One parent can handle son’s goal, other for daughter.
– This builds teamwork and better financial structure.

» Avoid Gold, Real Estate, and ULIPs for Kids’ Goals

– Gold and real estate have low liquidity.
– Real estate has high cost and risk.
– ULIPs have low return and high charges.
– Use mutual funds only, with proper asset mix.
– You need growth + flexibility, not lock-in products.

» Plan Goal-Wise and Not Just Product-Wise

– Don’t choose product first and fit goal later.
– Always define the goal first.
– Then select mutual fund based on risk and time.
– Your kids’ goals need clarity, not random investing.

» Meet Certified Financial Planner Once Every Year

– Regular reviews are very important.
– Your plan may need changes as market changes.
– Income, expenses, goals may also change.
– A CFP helps you adjust and stay on track.
– Don’t do DIY investing for long-term education goals.

» Finally

– You have started at the right age.
– You are thinking about your kids’ future well in advance.
– With proper planning, you can achieve it.
– Mutual funds offer flexibility, growth, and goal alignment.
– Start separate SIPs for both kids right now.
– Avoid LIC, ULIPs, direct funds, index funds, and real estate.
– Focus on goal-based, actively managed mutual funds.
– Review and adjust every year with a CFP.
– In 10–15 years, you will reach both targets confidently.

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  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 20, 2024Hindi
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Money
Sir, i m 40 yrs old, have two children 11 & 9 years old. Monthly income appx 90000/- P. M. Investing in monthly sip (5 different sector) appx 18000/- p. M. From last 4 years and RD in bank 15000/- p. M. How much i have to invest more for children education and marriage expenses appx 75 lacs each Monthly expenses abt 40 to 50k. No home loan only one car loan 20 installment pending 9100/-
Ans: It sounds like you've been diligently investing in SIPs and RDs to secure your family's future, which is truly commendable.

Given your children's ages, planning for their education and marriage expenses is a prudent step forward.

To accumulate approximately 75 lakhs for each child's education and marriage, you may need to increase your monthly investments.

Considering your current commitments and expenses, allocating an additional amount towards these goals is essential.

Calculating the required monthly investment involves factoring in the time horizon, expected returns, and inflation.

A Certified Financial Planner can help tailor a plan suited to your specific needs and goals.

Adjusting your budget to accommodate higher monthly investments may be necessary to achieve your financial objectives.

Exploring options like increasing SIP contributions or diversifying your investment portfolio can accelerate wealth accumulation.

Maintaining a balance between meeting your current financial obligations and saving for future goals is crucial.

Regularly reviewing your financial plan and making necessary adjustments ensures you stay on track to achieve your objectives.

Your dedication to securing your children's future is admirable. With careful planning and perseverance, you'll undoubtedly succeed.

Keep up the excellent work, and remember that every rupee saved today is a step closer to a brighter tomorrow for your family.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 23, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 45 years old, have a income of 2.5 lacs with variable pay every month after tax deduction. My total CTC is 65 lakhs/annum with stock. I have 2 flats worth 1.8 crores, one land worth 9 lakhs, one ancestral land worth 45 lakhs, have company stocks worth 20 to 30 lakhs. PPF current is 30 lakhs for 20 years of experience. My liabilities are home loan worth 80 lakhs, personal loan of 2 lakhs concluding in 3 months. My monthly expenses including EMI is 2lakhs. My kid education cost 2-3 lakh per year in Bangalore and she is 12 years in grade 7. Can you help me, how much I need to save every month, so I can have 5 crores in liquid money in 8 years and how much have for retirement plan by 65.
Ans: Absolutely understand your concerns. You have a good income and valuable assets, but you also have significant financial goals. Let's plan to achieve Rs. 5 crores in 8 years and ensure a comfortable retirement by 65.

Evaluating Current Financial Position
Firstly, let's assess your current financial position. Your monthly income is Rs. 2.5 lakhs with variable pay. Your CTC is Rs. 65 lakhs per annum, including company stocks. You own two flats worth Rs. 1.8 crores, one land worth Rs. 9 lakhs, and ancestral land worth Rs. 45 lakhs. Your company stocks are worth Rs. 20 to 30 lakhs. You have a PPF balance of Rs. 30 lakhs.

Your liabilities include an Rs. 80 lakh home loan and an Rs. 2 lakh personal loan, which will conclude in three months. Your monthly expenses, including EMIs, are Rs. 2 lakhs. Your child’s education costs Rs. 2-3 lakhs per year.

Setting Financial Goals
Your primary goals are:

Accumulating Rs. 5 crores in liquid money in 8 years.
Planning for retirement by age 65.
Assessing Income and Expenses
Your monthly income after tax is Rs. 2.5 lakhs. Monthly expenses are Rs. 2 lakhs, leaving you with Rs. 50,000 for savings and investments. Once the personal loan concludes in three months, you will have an additional Rs. 2 lakhs monthly for savings and investments.

Debt Management
First, prioritize managing your home loan. The personal loan will conclude soon, which is good. Continue paying your home loan EMIs on time. Consider prepaying part of the home loan if you receive bonuses or variable pay. This will reduce your interest burden.

Savings and Investments
To achieve your goals, you need a disciplined approach to savings and investments. Here's how you can plan:

Short-term Goal: Accumulating Rs. 5 Crores in 8 Years
Monthly Savings Required:

You need to save and invest a significant amount monthly.
With your additional Rs. 2 lakhs available after the personal loan conclusion, start saving Rs. 2.5 lakhs monthly.
Consider investing in mutual funds. Actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide better returns than direct funds.
SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) are a good way to invest consistently.
Investment Options:

Mutual Funds: Diversified equity funds, balanced funds, and debt funds can provide a balanced portfolio.
PPF: Continue investing in PPF. It offers tax benefits and secure returns.
Stocks: Continue holding company stocks. Monitor their performance and consult your CFP for advice.
Long-term Goal: Retirement Planning
Evaluate Retirement Needs:

Estimate your post-retirement expenses considering inflation.
Consider healthcare, lifestyle, and any other retirement goals.
Current Assets and Investments:

Your flats, land, and ancestral property are valuable assets.
Ensure they are well-maintained and consider rental income from flats if not already done.
Retirement Corpus:

Aim to build a retirement corpus that supports your post-retirement lifestyle.
Consult your CFP to estimate the required corpus.
Invest in Mutual Funds:

Long-term investments in mutual funds can help grow your retirement corpus.
Focus on equity funds for higher returns over a long period.
PPF and EPF:

Continue contributing to PPF.
If you have an EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund), continue your contributions.
Child's Education Planning
Your child’s education costs Rs. 2-3 lakhs per year. Consider creating a dedicated education fund.

Education Savings:

Allocate a part of your monthly savings towards this fund.
Consider child education plans or mutual funds specifically designed for education savings.
Invest in Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY):

If you have a daughter, SSY offers attractive returns and tax benefits.
This can be a part of your education savings strategy.
Diversifying Investments
Diversification is key to managing risk and maximizing returns. Here's how you can diversify your portfolio:

Mutual Funds:

Invest in a mix of equity, debt, and balanced funds.
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio with your CFP.
PPF and EPF:

Continue contributions for secure, long-term growth.
Company Stocks:

Hold and monitor their performance.
Consider selling a part if they appreciate significantly and reinvest in diversified funds.
Real Estate:

Your flats and land are valuable assets.
Consider rental income and long-term appreciation.
Building an Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is crucial for financial security. Allocate a part of your savings to build a fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This fund will help manage unexpected expenses without disturbing your investment goals.

Insurance Coverage
Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. Here's what to consider:

Life Insurance:

Adequate coverage to support your family in your absence.
Term insurance is recommended for higher coverage at lower premiums.
Health Insurance:

Comprehensive health insurance for your family.
Consider a top-up plan for additional coverage.
Critical Illness and Disability Insurance:

Coverage for critical illnesses and disability.
This ensures financial support in case of severe health issues.
Monitoring and Reviewing Your Plan
Regularly monitor and review your financial plan. Here's how:

Quarterly Reviews:

Review your investments, expenses, and savings every quarter.
Make adjustments as needed.
Annual Reviews:

Conduct a detailed annual review with your CFP.
Assess your progress towards goals and make necessary changes.
Adjusting for Life Changes:

Adjust your plan for any major life changes, like job change, additional income, or change in expenses.
Maintaining Financial Discipline
Financial discipline is key to achieving your goals. Stick to your budget, avoid unnecessary expenses, and focus on your savings and investment plan. Here are some tips:

Automate Savings:

Automate your savings and investments.
This ensures consistency and reduces the temptation to spend.
Budgeting:

Maintain a monthly budget.
Track your expenses and identify areas to cut back.
Avoid Debt:

Avoid taking on new debt.
Focus on repaying existing loans and maintaining a debt-free lifestyle.
Final Insights
You have a solid foundation with a good income, valuable assets, and a disciplined approach to savings. Achieving Rs. 5 crores in liquid money in 8 years and planning for a comfortable retirement is possible with strategic planning and disciplined execution. Focus on prioritizing debt repayment, diversifying investments, and maintaining financial discipline. Regularly review and adjust your plan to stay on track towards your financial goals.

Start implementing these steps immediately. Track your progress, adjust your plan as needed, and stay committed. Financial freedom is achievable with determination and smart planning.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 29, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi , I'm 42 years employed in a private job. Monthly salary : 4.5 lacs (post tax), yearly Stocks allocation : 40 lacs ( post tax), bonus - 16 lacs post tax. Savings /investment rate : 1 lacs monthly towards mutual fund, 1 lac towards company stock ESPP, Bonus savings around 10 lacs, stock allocated annually - all saved ( 40 lacs). Yearly 1.5 lac each to myself and spouse account , 1.5 lacs SSY. Investment corpus so far : Mutual funds -90 lacs Equity - 80 lacs FDs - 1 cr Company stocks held ( vested post tax) - 60 lacs SGB - 16 lacs EPF corpus - 1.25 Cr PPF - 18 lacs Land - 80 lacs current value Goals : Buying a home (current value 2cr) Kids education ( current estimate 2cr) 7 yrs old kid need this inflation adjusted after 10 years Retirement corpus - 1.5 lac expense per month. How much I should save and build the corpus and how ?
Ans: You have done an excellent job with savings. At age 42, with consistent income and a disciplined habit, your financial life is already ahead of many. Now, the next step is to align everything with your life goals. Let’s assess and structure your plan from a 360-degree perspective.

Current Income and Savings Snapshot
Monthly post-tax salary: Rs. 4.5 lacs

Annual bonus (post-tax): Rs. 16 lacs

Annual stocks allocation (post-tax): Rs. 40 lacs

Monthly savings:

Rs. 1 lac in mutual funds

Rs. 1 lac in company ESPP

Bonus savings: Around Rs. 10 lacs yearly

Annual stock savings: Entire Rs. 40 lacs

Additional yearly savings:

Rs. 1.5 lacs in your PPF

Rs. 1.5 lacs in spouse’s PPF

Rs. 1.5 lacs in SSY

You are saving over Rs. 65–70 lacs every year. That’s an impressive commitment to your future.

Asset Allocation Overview
Mutual Funds: Rs. 90 lacs

Listed Equity: Rs. 80 lacs

Fixed Deposits: Rs. 1 crore

Company Stocks: Rs. 60 lacs

SGBs: Rs. 16 lacs

EPF: Rs. 1.25 crore

PPF: Rs. 18 lacs

Land: Rs. 80 lacs (not considered liquid for planning)

The total financial asset base (excluding land) is around Rs. 4.89 crore. Excellent progress.

Goal 1: Buying a House Worth Rs. 2 Crore
Assessment and suggestions:

You can buy the house without a loan by using part of current corpus.

However, don’t deplete all liquid assets at once. Keep Rs. 1 crore as reserve.

Use a mix of company stock sale and FDs. Avoid using mutual fund corpus.

Delay the purchase if possible, to avoid breaking FDs prematurely.

Buying should not delay kids’ education or retirement plan.

Recommended action:

Use Rs. 60 lacs from FDs

Use Rs. 60 lacs from company stock

Balance Rs. 80 lacs from stock allocation over next two years

Avoid touching mutual funds and EPF

This method keeps your long-term investment engine running.

Goal 2: Child’s Education – Rs. 2 Crore in 10 Years
Your child is 7 now. So, higher education will start at age 17.
You need Rs. 2 crore in future value. Assume this rises due to inflation.

Evaluation and strategy:

Continue monthly mutual fund SIP of Rs. 1 lac

Top-up SIP by 10–15% annually if possible

From bonus savings, allocate Rs. 5 lacs annually towards child goal

Avoid investing this amount in company stock

Why mutual funds?

Actively managed funds adjust to market cycles

Regular mutual fund investments through a Certified Financial Planner provide ongoing strategy

Mutual funds offer better goal tracking compared to direct stocks

Regular plan gives support and review; direct plans lack that

Why not index funds or direct funds?

Index funds follow the market. They don’t outperform in down cycles.

Direct funds don’t come with advisory or personalised strategy.

Regular plans help align your investment with your goal through expert CFP support.

Stick to regular plans advised by an MFD who also holds CFP certification.

Goal 3: Retirement – Rs. 1.5 Lacs Monthly Expense
You are 42 now. Assume retirement at 55. That gives 13 more years.
Post-retirement, you need Rs. 1.5 lacs monthly (inflation-adjusted).
You already have a strong foundation for this.

Retirement-focused allocation suggestions:

Continue EPF and PPF contributions

Keep SGBs till maturity for regular returns

Add to mutual funds regularly. SIP top-up yearly

Consider a separate SIP for retirement corpus of Rs. 50,000/month

Allocate Rs. 20 lacs annually from bonus and stocks into balanced funds

Why this strategy?

SIP builds wealth steadily and reduces risk

Balanced funds reduce volatility closer to retirement

Actively managed mutual funds adjust with market cycles

Regular review helps you stay on track

You already have Rs. 1.25 crore in EPF and Rs. 18 lacs in PPF. That’s a strong start.
Continue PPF contributions till 55. It gives tax-free interest and safety.

Risk Management – Insurance and Contingency
You didn’t mention insurance or emergency funds. Please evaluate this area seriously.

Suggestions:

Maintain emergency fund of Rs. 15–20 lacs in liquid funds or FDs

Term life insurance: Sum assured should be 10x of your annual income

Health insurance: Minimum Rs. 15 lacs family floater + employer policy

Add personal accident and critical illness cover

Even the best investment plans can get disturbed without these protections.

Portfolio Rebalancing and Tax Optimisation
Rebalancing tips:

Don’t hold excess in one asset. Limit company stock exposure to 10–15% of total.

Mutual funds and equities together should be 60–70% of your corpus.

FDs, PPF, EPF, SGB can be 30–40% for safety.

Tax efficiency guidance:

Mutual fund capital gains are taxed. Plan redemptions wisely.

Equity mutual fund LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lacs taxed at 12.5%

STCG taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual fund gains taxed as per your slab.

Use staggered withdrawals to reduce tax burden. Do not redeem large amounts at once.

Estate Planning
With a growing asset base, plan for asset transfer early.

Key steps:

Create a WILL mentioning all major assets and nominees

Assign nominees to all mutual fund folios and demat accounts

Consider a private family trust if asset base crosses Rs. 15 crore in future

Estate planning avoids confusion for your family later.

What You Should Do Yearly
Review goals every year with CFP

Increase SIP every year with salary hike

Track inflation impact on education and retirement goals

Reduce FD exposure slowly and invest more in balanced mutual funds

Keep land as legacy, not part of active planning

Trim company stock holding every year to control risk

Finally
You are on a great path. Your savings rate is strong. Your income is excellent.
Your awareness and discipline are already better than 90% of people.
But, the next phase needs clear focus. Protect your goals from market swings and risks.

With small adjustments, you can secure your child’s education and your retirement.
Do regular reviews. Keep rebalancing. Avoid overexposure to one asset type.
Stick to professionally managed investments through regular mutual funds advised by a CFP.
Avoid direct plans and index funds which lack active management and advice.

You don’t need new products. You need better structure and discipline.
And, every plan needs annual review and course correction. That keeps your plan relevant.

Keep up the discipline. Your future self will thank you for it.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 19, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello Sir, Would like seek your advise on my financials and how well I can save more. Im from Bangalore, Married and I have a kid who is 2.6y old. My Monthly inhand salary post tax deduction 1.09L. Below are my expenditures and savings. Rent: 11250 House hold exp: 19K Mutual Fund SIP:20k Monthly Current mutual fund investment amount:2.56L Stock Investment:1.44L Im also investing in Gold ETF monthly 6k Current investment 11k For my Child education which im going to join her from next year Im doing SIP of 8K in liquid fund. Current savings 41K Emergency fund: 1.60L Doing monthly RD of 20k to save atleast 3lakh emergency fund. Ive term insurance for 1cr Health insurance company sponsored:10lakhs Im also doing cheeti for 4 lakhs this is for 20 months. Completed 11 months 9 months pending. For this I generally pay per month around 17-18k. For my daughter im doing Sukanya samridh yogana monthly 3.5k So far invested 50k in SSY LIC this is for 16years and maturity is on 25years Premium is around 43k yearly. Paid for almost 5 years. Every month im saving 4k for this. These are my savings and investments other than this I do not have savings. Ive EPF amount of 3.5l Monthly deductions from both employee and employer combinedly is 10.1k I do have a plan to buy house in may be 3-5years and also want to plan for retirement amount. How well I can save to achieve the above goals.
Ans: You are already doing very well in terms of awareness and savings. You are just 2.6 years into parenthood, yet you are saving across mutual funds, gold, Sukanya, RD, EPF, and insurance. That is a strong foundation. With a little more structure, you can save even better for house purchase, child education, and retirement. Let me guide you with a 360-degree plan.

» Present Income and Expense Position

Your monthly income after tax is Rs.1.09 lakh.

Your rent is Rs.11,250 and household expenses Rs.19,000.

Your cheeti outgo is Rs.17,000 to 18,000 for nine more months.

You are already saving through SIPs, RDs, Sukanya, LIC, and gold.

Overall, your saving percentage is high compared to many families.

This shows discipline and commitment. With this, we can refine further.

» Emergency Fund and Liquidity

You currently have Rs.1.6 lakh in emergency fund.

You are saving Rs.20,000 in RD every month to reach Rs.3 lakh.

For a family with child, 6 months of expenses is safer.

That means you should target Rs.5 to 6 lakh over time.

Emergency fund must stay in liquid or savings-linked instruments only.

So, continue your RD until Rs.3 lakh. Then shift Rs.20,000 monthly to other goals.

» Insurance Protection

You have a Rs.1 crore term insurance. This is good for your family.

Company health insurance is Rs.10 lakh. That is helpful but not lifelong.

After job change or retirement, this cover may stop.

So, add a personal health cover of at least Rs.10 lakh.

This will safeguard child’s education money from medical emergencies.

» Analysis of LIC Policy

You are paying Rs.43,000 yearly for LIC.

It is an investment-cum-insurance policy.

Such policies give poor returns over long term.

They lock your money and give only 4% to 5% returns.

You already have term insurance, so you don’t need insurance-linked savings.

You can surrender this LIC and shift the yearly Rs.43,000 into mutual funds. That will grow faster.

» Sukanya Samriddhi Account for Daughter

You are saving Rs.3,500 monthly here.

It gives fixed return with government backing.

It is safe and tax efficient.

But returns are lower compared to mutual funds.

Keep Sukanya contribution but don’t increase too much.

A small portion in Sukanya ensures guaranteed part of child education fund.

» Mutual Fund Investments

You are already investing Rs.20,000 SIP.

Your current value is Rs.2.56 lakh.

You are also doing Rs.8,000 in liquid fund for child.

SIP in equity mutual funds will give good long-term growth.

Equity funds are better than index funds for you.

Disadvantages of index funds:
– They just copy the market, no chance of higher returns.
– No active professional management to protect from downturns.
– Limited flexibility.
– Can give lower return compared to active funds after tax and inflation.

Benefits of actively managed mutual funds through CFP or MFD:
– Professional monitoring and rebalancing.
– Potential for higher returns over index.
– Personalised fund selection.
– Helps you avoid emotional mistakes.

So, continue your Rs.20,000 SIP in actively managed funds. Increase when possible.

» Gold Investment

You are putting Rs.6,000 monthly in Gold ETF.

Gold protects against inflation but grows slow.

Don’t allocate too much here.

Maximum 5% to 8% of total wealth is enough.

Equity mutual funds give better long-term wealth growth.

Keep your current gold savings but don’t increase.

» EPF and Retirement Planning

Your EPF is Rs.3.5 lakh. Monthly contribution is Rs.10,100.

This will grow steadily till retirement.

EPF is safe, but growth is limited compared to equity.

For retirement, you must build a large equity mutual fund corpus.

At least 25% to 30% of monthly savings must go to retirement.

You are young. So equity allocation for retirement should be high now.

» Chit Fund Participation

You are paying Rs.17,000 to Rs.18,000 for chit fund.

Chits are risky compared to regulated instruments.

Continue till your current chit ends.

Avoid starting new chits.

After maturity, shift this money to mutual fund SIPs.

This will keep your money safe and productive.

» Child Education Planning

Your child is 2.6 years now.

Higher education cost after 15 years may be Rs.30 to 50 lakh.

Current Rs.8,000 in liquid fund is too safe.

Education goal is long term, so you need equity exposure.

Move Rs.8,000 liquid SIP to equity mutual funds.

Continue Sukanya for small guaranteed portion.

By increasing equity SIPs, you will build a bigger fund for education.

» Buying House in 3 to 5 Years

You plan to buy a house in 3 to 5 years.

For this short horizon, avoid equity mutual funds.

Equity can fluctuate in 5 years.

Use RDs, debt funds, and balanced funds for down payment.

When chit fund matures, use that money towards house goal.

So, separate a monthly amount into safe options for house purchase.

» Retirement Goal Focus

Retirement will need bigger corpus than education.

Don’t depend only on EPF.

Increase retirement SIP to Rs.15,000 to Rs.20,000 monthly in equity mutual funds.

This will compound better over 20+ years.

Do not use annuities because they give low returns.

Proper allocation today will reduce pressure later.

» Step-by-Step Saving Restructure

Continue emergency fund till Rs.3 lakh.

Build further emergency cash slowly to Rs.6 lakh.

Add personal health insurance Rs.10 lakh.

Surrender LIC and move yearly premium to equity SIP.

Continue Sukanya with Rs.3,500 monthly.

Shift child’s Rs.8,000 liquid fund SIP to equity mutual fund SIP.

On maturity of chit, stop new chit and invest Rs.18,000 monthly in equity SIPs.

Increase retirement SIP by Rs.5,000 now, and another Rs.5,000 when chit ends.

Keep gold investment capped at Rs.6,000 monthly.

This way, your money will be well-balanced for all goals.

» Final Insights

You are already saving more than 40% of income. Very strong start.

By restructuring, you will improve returns and safety.

Education goal will be supported by Sukanya plus equity SIPs.

Retirement goal will be secured by EPF plus higher equity allocation.

House goal in 3 to 5 years will be supported by chit maturity and debt instruments.

Insurance restructuring will protect your family against shocks.

With discipline, you can achieve all your goals without stress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |235 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 17, 2025
Money
I am 42 year old, with two kids 12 and 3. I have 4 lakhs in stock and mutual fund. I am trying to keep sip investment 25000 every month. 13 lakhs in PF. My house loan is 5600000 and EMI is 49000 for 30 years. I want to retire at age of 60. I want 2 crores at the time of retirement after the th amount required for kids education. I am expecting 20 lakhs for kids education. How much I need to invest per month.
Ans: Dear sir,

???? Your Current Snapshot

Age: 42 (Retirement target: 60 → 18 years left)

Kids: Age 12 & 3 (education goal upcoming in ~6 years & ~15 years)

Current Assets:

PF: ?13 lakhs

Stocks + MF: ?4 lakhs

SIP: ?25,000/month ongoing

Liability: Home loan ?56 lakhs, EMI ?49,000 (30 years – but practically, should be cleared before retirement).

Goals:

Kids’ education: ?20 lakhs (in today’s value)

Retirement corpus: ?2 crores at 60

???? Kids’ Education Goal

Let’s assume 8% inflation in education costs.

For 12-year-old: need in ~6 years
?20 lakhs × (1.08^6) ≈ ?31.7 lakhs

For 3-year-old: need in ~15 years
?20 lakhs × (1.08^15) ≈ ?63.4 lakhs

Total future requirement: ~?95 lakhs

???? Education needs itself are close to ?1 crore.

???? Retirement Goal

You want ?2 crores at age 60.
Let’s assume your MF equity SIP earns 11% annualized return.

Future value of existing PF (?13 lakhs @ 7% for 18 years) ≈ ?44 lakhs
Future value of current ?4 lakhs (equity @ 11%) ≈ ?22 lakhs

So without any extra investment, you already have ~?66 lakhs growing.

To reach ?2 crores, you need another ?1.34 crores in 18 years.

At 11% returns, SIP needed ≈ ?32,000/month

???? Putting Together

For Education:
To accumulate ~?95 lakhs in 6–15 years, you need separate investments:

6 years horizon (child 1) → equity + debt hybrid, SIP ≈ ?35,000/month

15 years horizon (child 2) → equity oriented, SIP ≈ ?15,000/month

For Retirement:
SIP required ≈ ?32,000/month (equity funds).

? Total SIP required = ?82,000/month

Currently you’re investing ?25,000/month. You’ll need to step up gradually (every year increase SIP by 10–12%).

???? Key Suggestions

Separate Buckets

Education funds → don’t mix with retirement SIPs.

Use debt/equity mix depending on time horizon.

Step-up SIP

If you start at ?25k now and increase by 10% yearly, by 18 years you’ll still reach close to goals.

But be disciplined to increase annually.

Loan Strategy

Try to reduce tenure of home loan. Clearing it before retirement is critical.

Any bonuses/surplus should partly go towards prepayment.

Insurance Check

Take adequate term life cover (at least ?1–1.5 crore).

???? To sum up:

Education: ~?50k/month (combined for both kids)

Retirement: ~?30–32k/month

Adjust with step-up SIPs if not possible immediately.

It is strongly recommended to consult a QPFP/Financial Planner to work on detailed cash flow budgeting, expense control, and long-term goal planning tailored to your family’s needs.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks. Read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
https://members.networkfp.com/member/naveenkumarreddy-vadula-chennai

..Read more

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Dr Nagarajan J S K   |2577 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 47 years old. I have started investing in mutual fund (SIP) only since last one year due to some financial obligations. Currently I am investing Rs.33K per month in various SIPS. The details are: Kotak Mahindra Market Growth (Rs. 1500), Aditya BSL Low Duration Growth (Rs. 1400), HDFC Mid-cap Growth (Rs. 12000), Nippon India Large Cap Growth (Rs. 3000), Bandhan small cap (Rs. 5000), Motilal Oswal Flexicap Growth (Rs. 5000), ICICI Pru Flexicap growth (Rs. 5000). I have also started to invest Rs. 1,50,000 per year in PPF since last year. Can I sustain if I retire by the age of 62?
Ans: I can help you with your retirement planning.
You have given a very detailed picture of your investments.
You have also shown strong intent to build wealth at 47.
This itself is a big positive start.

Your Current Efforts

– You started late due to obligations.
– That is understandable.
– You still took charge.
– You now invest Rs.33K every month.
– You also invest Rs.1,50,000 a year in PPF.
– You follow discipline.
– You follow consistency.
– These habits matter the most.
– These habits will help your retirement.
– You deserve appreciation for this foundation.

» Your Current Investment Mix

– You invest in various equity funds.
– You also invest in one low duration debt fund.
– You invest across mid cap, large cap, flexi cap, and small cap.
– This gives you some spread.
– You also invest in PPF.
– PPF gives safety.
– PPF gives steady growth.
– This mix creates balance.

– Please note one point.
– You hold direct plans.
– Direct plans look cheaper outside.
– But they are not always helpful for long-term investors.
– Many investors pick wrong funds.
– Many investors track markets wrongly.
– Many investors redeem at wrong times.
– This affects returns more than the saved expense ratio.
– Regular plans through a MFD with CFP support give guidance.
– Regular plans also help you stay on track.
– Behaviour gap is a major cost in direct funds.
– Thus regular plans with CFP support work better for long-term investors.
– They can correct mistakes.
– They can help with asset mix.
– They can help you stay steady during market drops.
– This gives higher final wealth than direct funds in most cases.

» Your Retirement Age Goal

– You plan to retire at 62.
– You are 47 now.
– You have 15 years left.
– Fifteen years is still a strong time line.
– You can allow compounding to work well.
– Your corpus can grow meaningfully by 62.
– You can also improve your savings rate during this time.

» Assessing If Your Current Plan Supports Retirement

– There are many parts to assess.
– You need to look at your saving rate.
– You need to look at your growth rate.
– You need to look at your future lifestyle cost.
– You need to look at inflation.
– You need to look at post-retirement income need.
– You need to see if your present plan matches this.

– Right now, your total yearly investment is:
– Rs.33K per month in SIP.
– That is Rs.3,96,000 per year.
– Plus Rs.1,50,000 in PPF each year.
– So your total yearly investment is Rs.5,46,000.
– This is a good number.
– This can help your retirement journey.

» Understanding Equity Funds in Your Mix

– You invest in mid cap.
– Mid cap can give good growth.
– Mid cap also carries higher swings.
– You invest in small cap.
– Small cap is the most volatile.
– It can give high returns if held for long.
– But it needs patience.
– You invest in large cap exposure.
– Large cap gives stability.
– You invest in flexi cap.
– Flexi cap funds adjust strategy.
– Flexi cap funds give managers more control.
– Active management is useful in Indian markets.
– Fund managers can shift between market caps.
– They can pick good sectors.
– This improves return potential.
– This is a benefit that index funds do not have.
– Index funds just copy the index.
– Index funds do not avoid weak companies.
– Index funds cannot take smart calls.
– Index funds also rise in cost whenever the index churns.
– Active funds can protect downside.
– Active funds can find better opportunities.
– This is helpful for long-term wealth building.
– So your move towards active funds is fine.

» Understanding PPF in Your Mix

– Your PPF adds stability.
– It gives assured growth.
– It also gives tax benefits.
– It builds a stable part of your retirement base.
– It reduces overall risk in your portfolio.
– It works well over long years.
– You have also chosen a steady long-term asset.
– This is beneficial for retirement.

» Gaps That Need Attention

– Your funds are scattered.
– You hold too many schemes.
– Each additional scheme overlaps with others.
– This reduces impact.
– It also becomes hard to track.
– You can reduce your scheme count.
– A more focused mix can give smoother progress.
– Rebalancing becomes easier.
– You can keep fewer funds but maintain asset spread.
– You can also map each fund to a purpose.

– You also need clarity about your retirement income need.
– Many investors skip this.
– You must know how much money you need per month at 62.
– You must add inflation.
– You must add health needs.
– You must also add lifestyle goals.

» Your Future Lifestyle Cost

– Your cost will rise with inflation.
– Inflation affects food, transport, medical needs.
– Medical inflation is higher than normal inflation.
– Retirement planning must consider this.
– You also need to consider family responsibilities.
– You must consider emergencies.
– You must also consider rising cost of daily life.
– This helps estimate the required retirement corpus.

» Your Future Corpus From Current Savings

– Without giving strict numbers, you can expect growth.
– You invest steadily.
– You invest for 15 years.
– Your equity portion can grow better over long time.
– Your PPF gives predictable growth.
– Your mix can create a decent retirement base.
– But you will need to increase your SIP over time.
– You can raise your SIP by 5% to 10% each year.
– Even small increases help.
– This builds a stronger corpus.
– Your final retirement amount becomes much higher.

» Need for Periodic Review

– Markets change.
– Life situations change.
– Your goals may shift.
– Your income may rise.
– Your responsibilities may change.
– Review every year.
– Adjust as needed.
– A Certified Financial Planner can help.
– This gives clarity.
– This gives structure.
– This gives confidence.
– You can reduce mistakes.
– You can follow proper asset allocation.

» Asset Allocation Approach for Smooth Growth

– You must decide your ideal equity percentage.
– You must decide your ideal debt percentage.
– If you take too much equity, risk increases.
– If you take too little equity, growth reduces.
– You must keep balance.
– It must match your risk comfort.
– It must support your retirement goal.
– Right allocation brings discipline.
– Rebalancing once a year helps.
– Rebalancing controls emotion.
– Rebalancing increases long-term returns.
– Rebalancing keeps your portfolio healthy.

» Importance of Staying Invested During Market Swings

– Markets move up and down.
– Swings are normal.
– Equity grows over long time.
– Equity needs patience.
– People often fear drops.
– They exit at wrong time.
– This hurts long-term wealth.
– You must stay steady.
– You must trust your long-term plan.
– You must follow guidance.
– This improves retirement success.

» Avoiding Common Mistakes

– Many investors pick funds based on recent returns.
– This is risky.
– Fund selection needs deeper view.
– Fund must match your risk.
– Fund must match your time horizon.
– Fund must have consistent process.
– Fund must show reliable pattern.
– Avoid sudden changes.
– Avoid chasing trends.
– Stay with a disciplined plan.
– This ensures better results.

– You must avoid mixing too many categories.
– Focused mix works better.
– Smaller set makes control easy.
– This reduces confusion.

– Do not rely on direct funds for long-term goals.
– Direct funds lack guided support.
– Behavioral mistakes cost more than the lower expense ratio.
– Regular plans help you stay invested.
– They help avoid panic.
– They help during reviews.
– They help create proper asset allocation.
– They help you use the fund in the right way.
– Investment discipline is more important than low cost.
– Regular plans with CFP support deliver this discipline.

» Inflation Protection Through Growth Assets

– Equity protects from inflation.
– PPF adds safety.
– Balanced mix protects your purchasing power.
– Retirement needs this balance.
– Long-term equity portion helps create a healthy corpus.
– This allows you to meet rising living cost.

» How to Strengthen Your Retirement Plan From Now

– Increase SIP every year.
– Even slight hikes help.
– Be consistent.
– Avoid stopping during market drops.
– Do a yearly check-up.
– Reduce scheme count.
– Keep a clear structure.
– Assign each fund a purpose.
– Build an emergency fund.
– This will protect your SIP flow.
– Continue PPF.
– It gives stability.
– It protects your long-term needs.

» Possibility of Sustaining Life After Retirement

– Yes, you can sustain.
– But it depends on three things:
– Your future living cost.
– Your total corpus at retirement.
– Your discipline during retirement.

– If you continue your present saving, your base will grow.
– If you raise your SIP each year, your base will grow faster.
– If you keep a proper asset mix, your base will grow safely.
– If you avoid emotional mistakes, your base will stay strong.
– If you review yearly, your plan will stay on track.

– So sustaining life after retirement is possible.
– You just need stronger structure.
– You also need steady guidance.
– This ensures confidence.

» Retirement Income Planning After Age 62

– Your retirement income must come from a mix.
– Part from equity.
– Part from debt.
– Part from stable instruments.
– Do not depend on one source.
– Plan your withdrawal pattern.
– Take small and stable withdrawals.
– Keep some equity even after retirement.
– This helps your corpus last longer.
– Do not shift everything to debt at retirement.
– That reduces growth too much.
– Balanced approach keeps your money alive.
– This supports your life for long years.

» Health and Emergency Preparedness

– Health costs rise fast.
– You must plan for it.
– Keep health insurance active.
– Keep top-up if needed.
– Keep separate emergency money.
– Do not depend on your investments during emergencies.
– Emergency fund protects your retirement portfolio.
– This keeps compounding intact.
– You can handle shocks with ease.

» Tax Awareness

– Be aware of mutual fund tax rules.
– Equity long-term gains above Rs.1.25 lakh per year are taxed at 12.5%.
– Equity short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
– Debt funds are taxed as per your slab.
– Plan redemptions wisely.
– Do not redeem often.
– Keep long-term horizon.
– This reduces tax impact.
– This helps wealth building.

» Summary of Your Retirement Possibility

– You have a good start.
– You have a workable time frame.
– You have a steady contribution.
– You must refine your portfolio.
– You must increase SIP yearly.
– You must reduce scheme count.
– You must follow asset allocation.
– You must stay disciplined.
– You must get yearly review from a CFP.
– If you follow these, you can reach a healthy retirement base.

» Final Insights

– You are on the right path.
– You have taken the key step by starting.
– You can still create a strong retirement corpus even at 47.
– Fifteen years is enough if you stay consistent.
– Your mix of equity and PPF is good.
– With discipline and structure, your future can stay secure.
– With yearly guidance, you can avoid mistakes.
– With increased SIP, you can boost your corpus.
– You can aim for a peaceful and confident retirement at 62.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Money
I am 43 yrs old, have sip in Nifty 50 - 3500 Nifty next 50 - 3000 Nippon large cap - 3500 Hdfc midcap - 2500 Parag Flexicap - 3000 Tata small cap - 1300 Gold sip - 500 Hdfc debt fund - 700, lumsum of 10000 in motilal midcap and 20k in quant small cap. accumulated around 2.30 lakhs, started from June, 2024. But overall xirr is very less 3.11. Should I continue the above sips or which sips should be stopped?
Ans: You have started early in 2024, and you already built Rs 2.30 lakhs. This shows discipline. This shows patience. This gives you a good base for your future wealth.

Your XIRR looks low now. This is normal. You started only a few months back. SIPs show low return in the start. Markets move up and down. Early numbers look flat. They look small. They look discouraging. But they improve with time. They improve with longer SIP flow. So please stay calm. The start is always slow. The finish is always strong.

Your effort is strong. Your SIP list is wide. Your savings habit is good. You started at 43 years, but you still have good time to grow your wealth. Every disciplined month builds confidence. Your choices show that you want growth. You want stability. You want balance. This is a good sign.

» Current Portfolio Snapshot
You invest in many groups.

– You invest in Nifty 50.
– You invest in Nifty Next 50.
– You invest in a large cap fund.
– You invest in a midcap fund.
– You invest in a flexicap fund.
– You invest in a small cap fund.
– You invest in gold.
– You invest in a debt fund.
– You put lumpsum in a midcap and small cap fund.

This looks wide. But wide does not mean effective. You hold too many funds in similar areas. That gives duplication. That reduces clarity. That reduces control. You need sharper structure. You need cleaner lines.

» Why Your XIRR Is Low
Your XIRR is only 3.11%. This is normal. Here is why.

– SIP started in June 2024. Very new.
– SIP amount spread across many funds.
– Market volatility in 2024 made early returns look low.
– SIP returns always look weak in early days. They grow with time.

Low short-term return is not a sign of failure. It is not a sign to stop. It is only a sign of market timing. SIP is for long periods. Not for few months.

» Problem of Index Funds in Your Portfolio
You invest in Nifty 50 and Nifty Next 50. Both are index funds. Index funds follow a fixed rule. They copy the index. They do not use research. They do not use fund manager skill. They do not adjust during bad markets. They do not protect much in down cycles. They lock you into index ups and downs.

In India, active fund managers add value. They find better stocks. They exit weak stocks faster. They manage risk better. They use research teams. They use market cycles well. They often beat index returns over long periods.

Index funds look simple. But they lack decision power. They lack flexibility. They lack protection. They give average results. They track the market exactly. They cannot outperform it.

So index funds are not the best choice for your long-term goal. Active funds give more control and more upside over long years.

» Problem of Too Many Funds
You hold too many funds across the same categories. This creates overlap. Two different schemes may hold same stocks. You think you diversify. But you repeat exposure. This weakens your plan.

Too many funds also keep your attention scattered. It reduces discipline. You waste time comparing each fund. You feel lost. You feel uncertain.

Better to keep fewer funds but stronger funds.

» Problem of Direct Funds
If any of your funds are in direct plans, please take note. Direct plans look cheaper because they have lower expense ratio. But they do not give guidance. They do not give personalised strategy. They do not give support during market falls. They do not give behavioural guidance.

Many investors make wrong moves in market dips. They stop SIPs. They redeem at the wrong time. They switch funds too often. They chase returns. This reduces wealth.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner keep you disciplined. They give structure. They give long-term guidance. They reduce errors. They reduce behaviour risk. This helps more than small cost savings.

Regular plans also offer better hand-holding for asset mix, review and goal clarity. This adds real value.

» Fund-by-Fund Assessment
Let me now look at each SIP.

Nifty 50 – This is an index fund. It is passive. It is rigid. Active large-cap funds do better in many years. You may stop this over time.

Nifty Next 50 – Another index fund. Very volatile. Very narrow. You may stop this too.

Nippon large cap – This is active. This is fine. It can stay.

HDFC midcap – This is active. Good long-term category. You can keep this.

Parag flexicap – Flexicap is versatile. Useful for long-term. You can keep this.

Tata small cap – Small caps can grow well. But they need patience. They also need limited allocation. You can keep, but maintain control.

Gold SIP – Small gold SIP is okay for safety.

HDFC debt fund – Debt brings stability. Small SIP is fine.

Lumpsum in midcap and small cap – Keep these invested. They will grow with cycles.

The two index funds are the most unnecessary parts of your plan. These can be stopped. These can be replaced with good active funds already in your system.

» Suggested Structure
You need a cleaner layout.

Keep one large cap active fund.

Keep one midcap active fund.

Keep one flexicap fund.

Keep one small cap fund.

Keep one debt fund.

Keep a small gold part.

This is enough. This gives balance. It gives clarity. It gives growth. It avoids overlap. It avoids confusion.

» SIP Continuation Guidance
Here is the simple view.

Continue your large cap SIP.

Continue your midcap SIP.

Continue your flexicap SIP.

Continue your small cap SIP.

Continue gold SIP.

Continue debt SIP in small proportion.

Stop the Nifty 50 SIP.

Stop the Nifty Next 50 SIP.

Move those two SIP amounts into your existing active funds. This gives you better long-term power.

» Behaviour and Patience
Your returns will not show big numbers for now. You need time. You need patience. You need consistency. SIP is not a race. SIP is a habit. SIP grows slowly. Then it grows big.

Do not judge your plan by the first few months. Judge it after many years. That is where SIP wins. That is where compounding works. That is where discipline shines.

» What Matters More Than Fund Names
The biggest cornerstones are:

Your discipline.

Your patience.

Your time in market.

Your stable SIP flow.

Your emotional stability.

These matter more than any fund selection. You are building them well.

» Asset Mix Guidance
Your mix of equity, debt and gold is good. But you should review this once a year. As you move closer to retirement, increase debt slowly. Reduce small cap slowly. This protects you. This stabilises your progress.

A Certified Financial Planner can help align your asset mix to your goals. This adds real value. This gives stronger structure.

» Taxation View
If you redeem equity funds in future, then keep the current rule in mind. Long-term capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakhs per year are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%. For debt funds, both gains are taxed as per your income slab.

This will matter only when you redeem. For now, your focus should be growth, not selling.

» Your Long-Term Wealth Path
You have good earnings years ahead. You have strong potential for growth. Your SIP habit is strong. You only need to clean your portfolio. You only need better structure. Then your money will grow well.

You can grow a meaningful corpus if you stay steady. You can even increase SIP when income grows. This gives faster results.

» Emotional Balance
Do not check returns every week. Do not check every month. Check once in six months. Check once in twelve months. SIP is a long game. Treat it like a long game.

Your small XIRR today does not decide your future. Your discipline decides it. You already have it.

» Step-by-Step Action Plan

Step 1: Stop Nifty 50 SIP.

Step 2: Stop Nifty Next 50 SIP.

Step 3: Keep all the remaining SIPs.

Step 4: Shift the stopped SIP amount into your existing large cap and flexicap funds.

Step 5: Continue gold and debt in small amounts.

Step 6: Review once a year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Step 7: Increase SIP amount slowly when income grows.

Step 8: Stay invested for long term.

Step 9: Do not judge returns too early.

Step 10: Keep your patience strong.

» Finally
Your foundation is strong. Your habit is disciplined. Your mix only needs refinement. Your returns will grow with time. Your portfolio will gain strength with consistency. Your path is steady. Your plan will reward you if you follow it with calm and clarity.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Shalini

Shalini Singh  |180 Answers  |Ask -

Dating Coach - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Hi. I have been in a long distance relationship since 6 months,and i have known my boyfriend since 10 months. He is very understanding, caring,and honest person. He had already told everything about us for his parents and their parents agreed. We both are financially independent. I told my relationship to my parents and they are against it as my boyfriend is from lower caste, different region, not done his degree from a reputed college but a local engineering college, and his status. They are thinking about relatives, and society what will they say, about their pride, status, and all the respect they have earned uptill now will vanish because of my decision. My parents are very protective of me and have given me everything and like me a lot.They are saying its long distance you might have met only 15 times you don't see this person daily to judge his character. If you have known this person for atleast 2/3 years, with u meeting him daily it would be different. But the person i met is honest from the start. They are hurting daily because of my decision. I cant go against them and be happy.
Ans: 1. It is wonderful you have met someone special and in last 10 months you have met him 15 times which averages to meeting him 1.5 times a month. Is it possible to increase this and meet over every second weekend. Can you both travel once.

2. Parents are parents they worry and all parents are protective of their children as are yours. But if they are declining you because of caste etc then please question them asking them to give you an assurance that if they marry you to someone of their choice things will work - In reality there can be no assurance given for any relationship - found by you or introduced by parents as relationships need work by both...both need to grow up, both of you need to be happy individuals for relationship to work + if colleges were the deciding factor then we would not see divorces of those who married in the same caste or are from Stanford, MIT, IIT, IIMs, Inseads of the world.

Here is a suggestion/ recommendation
- meet his family
- get him to meet your parents
- let both set of parents meet

all the best

...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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A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

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