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How can a 40-year-old invest in the share market and mutual funds?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 04, 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
md Question by md on Nov 03, 2024Hindi
Money

My age is 40 years. I want to invest in share market @ mutual funds. Is there any otherways to invest. Please suggest me.

Ans: at age 40, you have a valuable opportunity to build wealth with a diversified investment plan. With careful selection, there are various investment avenues beyond stocks and mutual funds to help you reach your financial goals. Let’s explore these options with a 360-degree approach.

Benefits of Diversified Investments
Risk Reduction: Diversification spreads risk across asset classes, providing a balanced growth potential.
Growth and Stability: Different investments perform differently under various market conditions, balancing returns over time.
Meeting Multiple Goals: A mix of investment options can cater to various life goals like retirement, children’s education, and asset creation.
Actively Managed Mutual Funds for Balanced Growth
If you’re interested in mutual funds, actively managed funds offer several advantages over index funds:

Expert Management: Professional fund managers actively monitor and adjust investments, aiming for higher returns than the general market.
Adaptability: Active funds can shift investments based on market trends, maximising growth and minimising risks.
Avoiding Index Funds Limitations: Index funds merely mirror market performance, with limited growth potential. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, target opportunities for higher returns.
Investing with an MFD and CFP: Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) brings personalised advice. Regular funds through an MFD and CFP ensure guidance in fund selection, performance reviews, and tax planning, all contributing to more effective wealth-building.
Bonds for Stable Income
Bonds provide stability, making them a reliable option in your portfolio:

Government and Corporate Bonds: These offer fixed interest rates, making them ideal for low-risk, predictable returns.
Diversified Bond Funds: Bond funds allow exposure to multiple bond types, balancing risk while delivering stable income.
Tax Treatment: Interest on bonds is taxed based on your income tax slab. However, long-term capital gains on debt-oriented mutual funds are also taxed per your income slab.
National Pension System (NPS) for Retirement Security
The National Pension System (NPS) is a useful tool for retirement savings, with tax benefits:

Equity and Debt Mix: NPS offers both equity and debt investments, customisable based on your risk appetite and age.
Tax Benefits: NPS provides tax deductions under Section 80C and 80CCD, helping save on taxes while investing for retirement.
Retirement Income: NPS allows you to withdraw up to 60% at retirement, while the rest is converted to a pension, providing a steady income post-retirement.
Public Provident Fund (PPF) for Tax-Free Savings
PPF offers a stable, tax-free return, suitable for low-risk, long-term growth:

Government-Backed Safety: PPF provides assured returns, with interest rates set by the government, and no market risk.
Tax Exemption: PPF falls under the EEE (Exempt-Exempt-Exempt) category, meaning investment, returns, and maturity are all tax-free, making it a tax-efficient choice.
15-Year Lock-In: While PPF has a long lock-in period, partial withdrawals are allowed after a few years, giving flexibility in case of urgent financial needs.
Fixed Deposits (FDs) as Safe Reserves
Fixed Deposits (FDs) provide low-risk, guaranteed returns and are easy to manage:

Certainty of Returns: FDs offer fixed interest, with no risk of capital loss, suitable as a safe reserve in a portfolio.
Flexible Tenure: You can choose FDs with a tenure ranging from 1 to 10 years, based on your need for liquidity.
Tax on Interest: Interest earned on FDs is taxable as per your income slab, but they can still be useful for parking funds needed in the short term.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in Equity Mutual Funds
A monthly SIP helps build wealth through regular investment in equity mutual funds:

Disciplined Approach: SIPs encourage consistent investing, ideal for long-term goals like retirement or children’s education.
Cost Averaging: SIPs spread the investment across market cycles, reducing the impact of market volatility.
Flexible Options: SIPs allow you to invest small amounts monthly, making it a convenient way to grow wealth over time.
Gold Investments for Wealth Preservation
Gold has historically been a good hedge against inflation:

Gold ETFs and Sovereign Gold Bonds: These are convenient, providing the security of gold without physical storage.
Tax Efficiency: Sovereign Gold Bonds offer tax-free maturity proceeds if held till maturity, making them a tax-efficient choice.
Portfolio Hedge: Gold often performs well during market downturns, providing stability to your portfolio.
Diversified Equity and Debt Portfolio for Balanced Returns
Creating a mix of equity and debt in your portfolio offers balance:

Equity for Growth: Equity mutual funds, when actively managed, can offer high growth potential, which is crucial for long-term goals.
Debt for Stability: Debt funds or bonds provide stability, making your portfolio resilient to market fluctuations.
Risk Management: A balanced approach in equity and debt reduces risk while aiming for steady returns over time.
Final Insights
At age 40, investing in a mix of equity, bonds, and safe instruments is a balanced approach. Mutual funds offer growth, while bonds and FDs provide stability. Diversifying helps you achieve financial security and peace of mind, knowing that your wealth is built on a strong foundation.

With each choice, careful monitoring and periodic review will keep your portfolio aligned with your goals. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can guide you through this process, helping you adjust investments as needed. With their expertise, you can make informed choices that align with your risk appetite and financial aspirations.

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 Kalirajan  |7255 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 07, 2024Hindi
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1 am 50 year old with income of 40000 pm. I want to invest in mutual funds.kindly suggest
Ans: At 50 years old, it’s essential to align your investments with your goals. Consider what you want to achieve with your investments.

Is it retirement planning, creating a safety net, or another goal? Knowing this will guide your investment strategy.

Current Financial Situation

With a monthly income of Rs. 40,000, it’s important to budget wisely. Ensure your monthly expenses, savings, and investments are well balanced.

Allocate a portion of your income to mutual funds after covering essential expenses and an emergency fund.

Choosing the Right Mutual Funds

Mutual funds offer various options, each with different risk levels and returns. It’s crucial to choose funds that match your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Here are some general categories to consider:

Equity Funds: These are suitable for long-term goals. They have higher returns but come with higher risk.

Debt Funds: These are less risky and provide stable returns. Suitable for short to medium-term goals.

Hybrid Funds: These offer a mix of equity and debt. They balance risk and return.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds are handled by professional managers. These managers make strategic decisions to outperform the market.

This can lead to higher returns compared to index funds. They adapt to market changes and identify opportunities.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Direct funds require constant monitoring. They need you to actively manage and rebalance your portfolio.

This can be time-consuming and may not be suitable for everyone. Regular funds, through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), offer professional management and advice.

Investment Strategy

Diversify: Spread your investments across different types of funds. This reduces risk and enhances returns.

Regular Investment: Consider a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). This allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly, reducing the impact of market volatility.

Review and Rebalance: Regularly review your portfolio. Ensure it aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. Rebalance if necessary.

Steps to Start Investing

Consult a CFP: A Certified Financial Planner can help you create a tailored investment plan. They provide professional advice and manage your portfolio.

Set Up an SIP: Choose the amount you can invest monthly. An SIP ensures disciplined investing.

Monitor Your Investments: Keep track of your investments. Regularly review their performance and make adjustments.

Creating a Balanced Portfolio

Your portfolio should reflect your goals and risk tolerance. At 50, you might prefer a conservative approach.

Consider a mix of equity and debt funds. This ensures growth while protecting your capital.

Emergency Fund

Ensure you have an emergency fund. This should cover at least 6 months of expenses. It protects you from financial setbacks.

Insurance Coverage

Review your insurance coverage. Adequate health and life insurance are crucial. They protect you and your family from unforeseen events.

Final Insights

Investing in mutual funds can be a great way to grow your wealth. Choose funds that match your goals and risk tolerance.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for professional advice. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio.

This ensures your investments remain aligned with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7255 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 17, 2024Hindi
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Money
Sir i am 32 year old my salary is 33000. Kindly provide the advice of which mutual funds and shares need to invest. Already i am investing monthly 500 in PPF and NPS, 500 in mutual fund, 500 in RD. From last two years
Ans: It's great to see that you're already investing in PPF, NPS, mutual funds, and RD. Let’s review your financial situation and provide some tailored advice.

Current Financial Overview
Age: 32 years old.

Salary: Rs. 33,000 per month.

Current Investments:

PPF: Rs. 500 per month.
NPS: Rs. 500 per month.
Mutual Fund: Rs. 500 per month.
Recurring Deposit (RD): Rs. 500 per month.
Investment Duration: 2 years.

Good Aspects:

Investment Habit: Investing regularly shows discipline.

Diversification: You're diversifying across different instruments.

Financial Planning Insights
Assessing Current Investments
PPF and NPS: Good for long-term retirement planning.

Mutual Fund and RD: Offers a mix of market-linked and guaranteed returns.

Recommendations for Mutual Funds
Equity Mutual Funds
Diversified Funds: Consider large-cap and multi-cap funds. They offer stability and growth potential.

Mid and Small-cap Funds: Allocate a smaller portion. These funds have higher growth potential but also higher risk.

Debt Mutual Funds
Short-term Debt Funds: Useful for short-term goals. They offer better returns than traditional savings accounts.

Balanced Funds: A mix of equity and debt. Provides moderate growth with lower risk.

Recommendations for Stocks
Large-cap Stocks
Stability: Large-cap stocks are less volatile and provide stable returns.

Research: Invest in companies with strong fundamentals and consistent performance.

Mid-cap and Small-cap Stocks
Growth Potential: These stocks can offer higher returns. However, they come with higher risk.

Diversification: Spread investments across sectors to mitigate risk.

Suggested Investment Strategy
Monthly Investment Plan
PPF: Continue with Rs. 500 per month.

NPS: Continue with Rs. 500 per month.

Mutual Fund: Increase to Rs. 2,000 per month. Split across diversified equity and debt funds.

RD: Continue with Rs. 500 per month.

Financial Goals
Short-term Goals (1-3 years)
Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses.

Skill Enhancement: Invest in courses or certifications to enhance your earning potential.

Mid-term Goals (3-5 years)
Buying a Vehicle: If you plan to buy a vehicle, start a dedicated savings plan.

Travel Fund: If you wish to travel, save separately for your trips.

Long-term Goals (5+ years)
Home Purchase: Start saving for a down payment if you plan to buy a home.

Retirement Fund: Continue contributing to PPF and NPS for a secure retirement.

Risk Management
Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health and life insurance. It protects against unexpected events.

Diversification: Maintain a balanced portfolio across different asset classes.

Tax Planning
Tax-saving Investments: Utilize options like ELSS, PPF, and NPS to reduce taxable income.

Efficient Filing: File your taxes accurately and seek professional help if needed.

Final Insights
Regular Review: Periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your goals.

Continuous Learning: Stay informed about personal finance and market trends.

Professional Guidance: Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide tailored advice and strategies.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 24, 2024Hindi
Money
I need advice on : As i have age of 75 year, can i investment in Shares & Mutual Funds? Any suitable plan of action please
Ans: At the age of 75, financial planning takes a unique approach. Preserving your wealth, maintaining a steady income, and reducing risks are key goals. Your focus should be on securing investments that align with your lifestyle and financial needs. Shares and mutual funds can still play a role in your portfolio with a few considerations.

Why Mutual Funds and Shares Are Still Relevant for You
Mutual funds and shares offer potential growth even at 75. They help keep your wealth growing and protect it from inflation. However, the key lies in the strategy. Selecting the right type of funds with appropriate risk is crucial to avoid unnecessary volatility.

Here’s why these options could benefit you:

Shares can provide growth if selected carefully, focusing on dividend-paying stocks.
Mutual funds offer professional management and diversification, spreading the risk across multiple companies and sectors.
Types of Mutual Funds Suitable for You
Mutual funds come in many varieties. Some of them suit senior investors with a conservative approach. Others aim at generating stable returns with reduced risk. It’s essential to allocate funds across different types for stability and income.

Equity-Oriented Funds: Choose large-cap funds with relatively lower volatility. These focus on established companies, making them safer. Limit exposure to equity to maintain a low-risk profile.

Debt-Oriented Funds: These are safer and offer predictable returns. They can act as an alternative to fixed deposits. Debt funds generate better post-tax returns, particularly for senior citizens.

Hybrid Funds: These funds provide a balance between equity and debt. They minimize risk by allocating assets across both categories. Such funds work well for stability and growth.

Dividend Yielding Funds: These generate periodic income, which could be helpful if you prefer regular cash flows. Funds that distribute dividends can supplement your pension or savings.

Caution Regarding Index Funds and Direct Funds
Investing in index funds may seem easy, but they lack active management. These funds track the market and cannot outperform during downturns. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, try to limit losses through timely adjustments.

Avoiding direct funds is wise at this stage. Direct funds require more monitoring, which can be demanding. Instead, working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) through mutual fund distributors (MFDs) ensures proper guidance. Regular funds provide the benefit of ongoing advice and portfolio management suited to your age.

Evaluating Risks with Shares and Market Volatility
Shares carry higher risk than mutual funds. If you choose to invest in shares, opt for companies with a stable track record. Dividend-yielding stocks can provide a consistent income stream. However, market volatility may impact your returns.

To manage risks effectively:

Limit exposure to direct shares if not actively tracking markets.
Diversify by holding both shares and mutual funds to reduce dependence on market fluctuations.
Liquidity and Emergency Planning
At 75, liquidity is essential for unexpected needs. While shares and mutual funds provide growth, ensure part of your portfolio remains easily accessible. Keep a portion of your savings in liquid mutual funds or secure bank deposits for emergencies.

Maintaining sufficient liquidity ensures peace of mind. Emergency funds can cover health expenses or other unforeseen situations.

Taxation Considerations for Your Portfolio
Taxation plays a vital role in deciding which investment to choose. Mutual funds have new taxation rules you need to be aware of:

Equity Funds: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.
Debt Funds: Both LTCG and STCG are taxed as per your income tax slab.
Understanding these rules helps optimize your investment decisions. Proper tax planning ensures that your portfolio delivers better post-tax returns.

Regular Monitoring and Periodic Adjustments
At your age, investments require regular monitoring to ensure alignment with changing needs. A Certified Financial Planner can help you review your portfolio periodically. Adjusting your asset allocation as needed will keep your investments relevant.

Seek advice every six months or annually to ensure that your investments remain suitable. Periodic reviews ensure your money works efficiently, aligned with your evolving financial goals.

Importance of Insurance Cover
Health-related expenses can be a concern in this phase of life. Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. Rising medical costs can impact your savings if not managed through insurance.

Check if your current health policy provides sufficient coverage. Explore top-up policies if needed to cover large expenses without dipping into your investments.

Plan for Steady Income Alongside Investments
Mutual funds can be set up to provide systematic withdrawals. This method allows you to generate a regular income. Combining dividend options with systematic withdrawals ensures steady cash flow.

Additionally, if you receive pension income, balancing it with investment returns can help cover living expenses comfortably.

Final Insights
Investing at 75 demands a careful balance between growth and safety. Shares and mutual funds remain relevant if chosen thoughtfully. Limit your exposure to high-risk assets and prioritize funds that align with your risk appetite.

Ensure part of your investments are liquid for emergencies. Use the services of a Certified Financial Planner to manage your portfolio and monitor it regularly. Health insurance plays a critical role in protecting your savings from medical expenses.

By focusing on steady income, risk management, and tax-efficient investments, you can enjoy financial security. A well-planned portfolio ensures that your savings continue to support you comfortably.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  |107 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 05, 2024Hindi
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Dear Dr Ashish, How do I get my 14 year old teenage son to talk to me? He talks less, is either angry or grumpy and rarely discusses anything at home with anyone. Is this behaviour normal? He used to be a talkative child when he was younger. How can I help?
Ans: Let me reassure you that you’re not alone in facing this challenge, and what you describe is quite common in teenagers. The teenage years are a time of immense internal transformation. It's as if your son is building a new version of himself, one brick at a time, and sometimes, in that process, he may feel the need to pull away to figure things out.

You see, as children grow, their world expands. Their focus shifts from being family-centered to exploring who they are in the larger world. This doesn't mean he cares any less about you; it simply means he’s working on something deep within himself—maybe even trying to understand emotions and situations he doesn’t yet have the words for.

Now, instead of trying to make him talk, which might feel like pressure to him, consider this: how can you create an environment where he wants to open up? Imagine if, instead of asking direct questions or expressing concern, you shared a small, non-threatening piece of your world. Maybe a funny story about your day or a memory of when you were his age. Sometimes, starting with something light gives him permission to engage without feeling interrogated.

Another way to open doors is through shared experiences. Teenagers often speak more freely when they're not face-to-face. Maybe a walk or a ride, cooking a meal together, or even playing a video game could become moments where he feels comfortable talking.

And when he does speak, no matter how small the opening, meet him with curiosity, not judgment. If he shares something, reflect it back to him in a way that says, "I hear you, and I value what you're saying." For example, if he mentions feeling frustrated, you could say, "It sounds like something’s been tough for you lately," rather than jumping to advice.

Finally, remind yourself—and him—this is a phase, not a permanent state. He is still that talkative child deep inside, but right now, he's learning to balance his need for independence with the safety of your love. Your steady presence, even when he seems distant, will be his anchor.

You’re already asking the right question, and that shows how much you care. Trust the process, and trust your connection. It’s still there, even in the quiet moments.

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Anu Krishna  |1394 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi I am 50 yrs male married for last 20 yrs, facing domestic abuse mentally, physically from my wife, she is extremely aggressive and use foul language in front of our 13 yrs daughter, family members, friends, maid, driver... she is keep blaming me if anything went wrong be it is financial, Social and economical . She always blame my parents with very abusive language.. she always say negative things in front of my family members for all the things which went wrong due to her extraordinary aggressive and abusive behavior, she always make issues out of normal conversation.. she is also working. She doesn't talk and whenever i try to ignore her, she physically abusive and use foul language with me.. i am trying to adjust with her for the sake of my daughter future. She is very negative, if i try to help her, she will start shouting and use abusive language and start physically abusive towards me I don't know how deal with strange behavior... I am confused and worried, but due family, daughter and society i am tolerating her. Pls help and suggest best possible solutions
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Has this started more recently or has it been going on for a while now? This is a good indicator to know if things were most;y like this or if any recent event has triggered this.
If it is a recent thing, I guess you could try and find out what exactly could have caused this. But if it is something that has been happening for a long time, the reasons could be any and many. Since there is also some physical abuse as you mentioned, kindly make an appointment with a professional who will be able to guide your wife through this challenging time. It possibly involves some unresolved things from the past which is making life currently difficult for all of you.
Work as a family unit together for her and not against her. It's going to make matters worse. She may refuse to go to a professional, then the only option left is for you to develop a lot of patience and deal with this adult to adult with her. No fights, quarrels with her but a lot of quiet conversations which she will initially resist but someday she will give in...So if you want the family to get back together in a healthy way, a lot also depends on how you are going to deal with the situation.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2024

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Sir, I am a female private company employee would like to invest Rs 10,00,000 other than in FD's. Considering liquidity and risk pls advise me how to proceed with.
Ans: Your decision to explore alternatives to fixed deposits is commendable. It reflects a balanced approach to achieving better returns while maintaining liquidity and managing risk. Below is a detailed analysis and suggestions on how to proceed with your investment:

Diversified Mutual Fund Portfolio
Mutual funds are ideal for liquidity, risk management, and diversification.

Allocate funds to different mutual fund categories based on your risk appetite and investment goals.

Equity mutual funds: Invest 40% for high returns in the long term. They suit moderate to high-risk tolerance.

Hybrid funds: Allocate 30% to balance equity and debt exposure for stability. These are less volatile.

Debt mutual funds: Invest 30% to preserve capital and ensure liquidity. These offer lower risk.

Actively managed funds are better for growth as they outperform passive options.

Regular plans through an MFD with a CFP offer expert guidance and better fund selection.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Use SWP for a steady cash flow if needed later.

Withdraw systematically without disturbing the principal.

This strategy maintains liquidity and provides tax efficiency.

Corporate Fixed Deposits and Bonds
Invest 20% in AAA-rated corporate FDs or bonds for better returns than bank FDs.

Ensure the issuer has a strong credit rating for safety.

These options provide fixed income and moderate liquidity.

Gold Investment for Diversification
Allocate 10% to gold through Sovereign Gold Bonds or Gold ETFs.

Sovereign Gold Bonds offer an additional annual interest of 2.5%.

Gold acts as a hedge during economic uncertainties.

Liquid Funds for Emergency Needs
Keep 10% in liquid mutual funds for emergencies or short-term goals.

These provide easy access to funds within 24 hours.

Returns are higher than savings accounts, ensuring better cash management.

Tax Efficiency
Equity mutual funds offer long-term tax benefits if held for over one year.

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab, but indexation reduces long-term taxes.

Plan withdrawals to optimise tax liability and maximise post-tax returns.

Insurance and Contingency Fund
Before investing, ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage.

Maintain a contingency fund covering at least 6 months of expenses.

This step ensures financial stability during emergencies.

Regular Monitoring
Review your investments quarterly with the help of a Certified Financial Planner.

Rebalance the portfolio based on market conditions and financial goals.

Regular tracking helps mitigate risks and ensures alignment with your objectives.

Avoid Common Investment Mistakes
Avoid direct funds due to the absence of expert advice and monitoring.

Stay away from speculative investments promising quick returns.

Avoid underestimating the importance of professional guidance in fund selection.

Align Investments with Goals
Define short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial goals.

Match investments with respective timelines for effective planning.

Ensure liquidity aligns with your specific needs, avoiding over-commitment to illiquid options.

Final Insights
Your investment should be a mix of growth and safety. Keep funds accessible when required while optimising returns. Diversify wisely and seek professional guidance for fund selection and periodic review. Stay focused on aligning investments with your goals and risk profile.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1394 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2024
Relationship
Hi doctor, I am 40 yrs old and my wife is 38 married for 14 yrs and have 1 kid who is 11 yrs old. We both are working and we only get to spend time on weekend and during weekdays we hardly get time to talk and see each other due to our shift timings. During weekend I do get urge to be intimate with her but she has lost interest and she doesn't have that urge to be intimate, we spoke about this multiple times and she agrees about this fact as we hardly get intimate once in 6 months or may be more than that. I do have that strong urge and don't want to cheat on my wife or go somewhere else to fullfill my sexual needs, but not sure if there can be any medication which will arouse her so that she can participate willingly in having sex. Even if we happen to get in to action she will just lie on the bed like dead with no emotions and she is constantly thinking of something else in her mind like what I need to cook for tomorrow, or did she do that work in office she will ask me to remind about something tomorrow as she has to do certain task, her mind is all over the place except in the act in the present moment, which really turns me off. Please need your help to save our relationship.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Intimacy for a man and women are very different and varied as well.
You cannot NOT connect during the week at an emotional level and then expect your wife to be excited to jump in bed. That's not how it works!
Both of you work which means weekends do get busy with household chores, children and more...there's very little time and energy left for intimate moments.
On your wife's part, she has not learned as yet to leave office work at the office but certainly what to cook for the next day is a huge task if this depends only on her. Why don't the two of you pitch in to distribute the household work between you? That way she does not feel burdened (if she does feel that way)...this also goes a long way in letting her know that you care and you want to help her...
You could also talk about how you can steal some moments after office and before you reach home by meeting at a cafe and sharing time over a cup of coffee. This definitely will make your wife feel more connected and emotionally secure which is a start point to easing of your sexual relationship.
Basically, get back to the dating scene and make your relationship a priority. A great sexual life is a product of the connection that a couple share outside the bedroom and the willingness on the part of the couple to make that happen.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7255 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 11, 2024

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I have 20 lakhs in my account and a house in my name. At present I am not earning. I have taken SBI Life smart wealth builder with installment of 1Lakh, for 12 years and premium payment term of 7 years. Applicable tax rate is 18%. I also invested in MF and taken a health insurance. I am thinking if it would be wise to continue with the SBI life. If I close SBI life and invest that in MF will it be beneficial for me? I have taken a break from my career due to health issues, and planning to continue with my job soon with an expected income of 40-50k. I am 50 years old. I need to take care of my son's (18 years) higher studies and plan for my retirement.
Ans: You are in a transitional phase with important financial goals. Let’s assess your options to make informed decisions.

Assessing SBI Life Smart Wealth Builder Policy
High Cost of Policy: The policy includes administration charges, fund management fees, and taxes of 18%.

Limited Returns: ULIPs often provide lower returns compared to actively managed mutual funds.

Lock-in Period: Your policy locks funds, restricting liquidity for immediate goals.

Surrender Value: Check the surrender value. Early surrender might lead to penalties and reduced returns.

Potential Benefits of Investing in Mutual Funds
Higher Returns: Mutual funds, especially actively managed ones, often outperform ULIPs over time.

Flexibility: You can withdraw funds based on your needs, offering better liquidity.

Diversification: Mutual funds provide exposure to different asset classes, reducing risk.

Cost Efficiency: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner minimises hidden charges and optimises returns.

Managing Your Rs. 20 Lakh Corpus
Emergency Fund: Set aside Rs. 5-6 lakhs in liquid funds or fixed deposits for emergencies.

Education Planning: Allocate funds in short-term debt mutual funds or recurring deposits for your son’s higher studies.

Retirement Corpus: Invest the remaining amount in a mix of equity and debt mutual funds for long-term growth.

Health Insurance Adequacy: Review your existing health insurance to ensure sufficient coverage.

Planning Your Income Resumption
Once you resume work, save at least 20-30% of your income.

Prioritise retirement contributions alongside education planning.

Use surplus income to reduce financial dependency on investments.

Tax Efficiency
Mutual Funds: Equity mutual funds provide tax benefits but watch for LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh (taxed at 12.5%).

Surrendering ULIP: Check tax implications on surrender proceeds. ULIPs offer tax exemption if premiums don't exceed 10% of the sum assured.

Health Insurance: Claim Section 80D deductions for premiums paid.

Strategic Steps Forward
Review the policy surrender value. If penalties are high, consider continuing till break-even.

Consult with a Certified Financial Planner for a detailed portfolio review.

Set realistic timelines for education and retirement goals.

Maintain separate funds for short-term needs and long-term growth.

Finally
Your proactive approach will create a strong financial foundation. By reallocating your resources wisely, you can secure your son’s education and your retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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

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