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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 15, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 11, 2024Hindi
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Sir, Below are my investments : a. Gold investment (not jewellery) of 20k per month (current savings is 1.2 lakhs) b. FD of 20 lakhs c. PF savings of 35 lakhs & PPF savings of 15 lakhs d. No rent, I stay in my own house c. SIP of 85k per month (current savings of 3 lakhs) Nippon India Large Cap Fund - 20k Kotak Multicap Fund - 30k HDFC Flexicap Fund - 15k Invesco Smallcap Fund - 10k Bandhan Smallcap Fund - 10k d. Stocks worth 36 lakhs I have 2 kids studying in 10th & 7th standard respectively. Need to fund their education. Just wanted to check if my investment is good enough to take care of my kids higher education (Engineering or Commerce) & have a retirement corpus of approx 3 cr.

Ans: Your portfolio seems well-diversified but review allocation for goals:

Gold: Consider reducing monthly gold investment if education funding is a priority.
Debt: High FD allocation might be conservative for long-term goals like education & retirement.
Equity: SIPs are good, but review fund overlap (multi-cap & flexi-cap) and small-cap weightage (higher risk).
Stocks: Diversification is key, but individual stock selection requires expertise.
Consult a CFP for personalized advice on optimizing your asset allocation based on risk tolerance and specific goals (education timelines, retirement corpus). They can help you strike a balance between stability and growth potential.
Asked on - Apr 15, 2024 | Answered on Apr 15, 2024
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Sir, I have started the SIPs from this month seeking advise from PF Management firm. Also with regards to FD, I have kept the FD (of 20 lakhs) to ensure that I can fall back on this amt incase of any job loss. Any other option you can suggest instead of FD. Do you think a Fixed Income MF will get better returns ?? Any MF you can suggest for long term ?? Also there is a house construction which should start in 3-4 months through which I should get a rent of 50k per month. But will need to clear housing loan for 5 yrs.
Ans: Based on your latest information, here are some insights on your portfolio and suggestions for improvement:

SIPs:

Starting SIPs is a positive step towards your goals. Regularly investing for your children's education and retirement is crucial.
Emergency Fund:

Maintaining an emergency fund like your 20 lakh FD is a wise decision. It provides financial security in case of job loss or unexpected events.
Fixed Income Options:

FDs: While FDs offer guaranteed returns and safety, their interest rates may not always outpace inflation.

Fixed Income Mutual Funds: These can be an alternative. They invest in bonds and debt instruments, offering potentially higher returns than FDs but with slightly more risk. However, they are still considered less volatile than equity funds.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing Fixed Income MFs:

Investment Horizon: Match the fund's maturity with your goals. Short-term debt funds might be suitable for education needs within 5-7 years.
Credit Quality: Invest in funds with good credit quality (low risk of default) to balance returns and stability.
Specific Fund Recommendations are difficult:

It's best to consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized recommendations. They consider your risk tolerance and specific goals when suggesting funds.
House Construction Loan & Future Rent:

The upcoming rental income can help offset your housing loan EMIs, easing your financial burden.
Portfolio Review & Optimization:

Gold Investment: Revisit your monthly gold investment (20k). Consider reducing it if prioritizing education funding, as gold's returns might not keep pace with education costs.

Debt Allocation: The 20 lakh FD and potentially high allocation to debt funds in your SIPs might be too conservative for long-term goals like education (10-15 years) and retirement (20+ years).

Equity SIP Overlap: Review your SIPs (Nippon India Large Cap, Kotak Multicap, HDFC Flexi Cap) for overlap. Consider merging similar fund categories to simplify your portfolio.

Small-Cap Weightage: Small-cap funds (Invesco & Bandhan) carry higher risk. Assess your risk tolerance and adjust allocation if needed.

Stock Selection: Diversification is key in stock selection. Holding individual stocks requires in-depth research and monitoring. Consider a professionally managed equity mutual fund for broader exposure.

Consulting a CFP:

A CFP can create a personalized plan considering your:

Risk tolerance
Specific goals (education timelines, retirement corpus)
Investment horizon for each goal
They can help you optimize your asset allocation across equity, debt, and gold to achieve your financial goals.
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  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 17, 2024

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Dear Sir, I Sanjeev Kumar, aged 42 years investing in following investment, I would like to have your opinion that are these saving quite enough to accumulate to fund value of 70 to 80 lac in next 10 to 12 years. 1. Aditya birla multicap fund --- Rs 1000 PM (SIP) 2. Invesco flexi cap fund -------- Rs 1000 PM (SIP) 3. Invesco india multi cap fund ----- Rs 1000 PM (SIP) 4. Kotak Multicap fund ------ Rs 1000 PM (SIP) 5. Kotak emerging equity fund ----- Rs 1000 PM (SIP) 6. Kotak tax saver fund ------- Rs 500 PM (SIP) 7. Nippon multicap fund -------- Rs 1000 PM (SIP) 8. Union Tax saver fund --------- Rs 1500 PM (SIP) 9. LIC -------------------------- 52000 (annually) 10. PPF ----------------------- 1.5 lac (annually) 11. NPS --------------------- 5000 Rs (annually) I would also like to hear from you, that whether reshuffling is required in my portfolio. Eager to hear from you soon.
Ans: Review of your Investment Portfolio
Strengths:

Regular Savings: You're consistently contributing through SIPs in various mutual funds, PPF, NPS, and LIC, which is a positive aspect for long-term wealth creation.
Diversification: You have a good mix of multi-cap and flexi-cap funds, along with tax-saving options (ELSS) through SIPs. This provides some diversification across market capitalizations and offers tax benefits.
Areas for Potential Review:

Number of Funds: Having nine SIPs across different mutual funds can be complex to manage and rebalance. Consider consolidating some funds with similar investment styles. Three to five well-chosen funds can provide sufficient diversification.
Equity Allocation: While you have some tax-saving SIPs, the overall weightage towards equity might be on the lower side for a 10-12 year investment horizon, considering your target corpus of Rs. 70-80 lakh.
LIC Policy: LIC policies offer life insurance and savings, but their returns might be lower than pure investment options. Analyze the returns of your LIC policy and consider if it aligns with your goals. Speak to your advisor for potential alternatives.
Reshuffling Considerations (Consult a Financial Advisor for Specific Recommendations):

Consolidation: Consider merging some of your multi-cap funds with similar investment styles. This will simplify your portfolio and reduce management complexity.
Increase Equity Allocation: Discuss with a financial advisor about potentially increasing your SIP contributions in existing equity funds or starting a new SIP in a large-cap or mid-cap fund to potentially boost your equity exposure and align it better with your investment horizon.
Here are some additional tips:

Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund with 3-6 months of living expenses to cover unexpected costs. Park this in a liquid instrument like a savings account or short-term debt fund.
Review and Rebalance: Regularly review your portfolio performance (at least annually) and rebalance if needed to maintain your desired asset allocation.
Goal-based Investment: Consider aligning specific investments with your retirement goals. Equity funds can be suitable for long-term goals like retirement, while debt funds can be good for shorter-term goals.
Reaching your target corpus of Rs. 70-80 lakh in 10-12 years might require:

Potentially increasing your SIP contributions in existing equity funds.
Analyzing and potentially adjusting your LIC policy if the returns don't align with your goals.
Remember:

This is a general overview, and consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is highly recommended for a personalized plan considering your specific risk tolerance, financial goals, and investment time horizon.
Disciplined investment and staying invested for the long term are crucial for achieving your financial goals.
By strategically reviewing your portfolio, potentially consolidating funds, and potentially increasing your equity allocation, you can improve your chances of reaching your desired corpus.
(more)
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 16, 2024Hindi
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Hi, i am 42 years old 2 children 7 and 11 yrs each. earning currently 2 lakh net. I planning to create a retirement plan. I have done some investments but have never planned with specific goals so far. I intend to grow my money as much possible. And i am willing to take few risks, like i have started doing derivatives in options ( only nifty and I am not doing intra day). Please advice if my investment are reasonable and what are the other options i have to invest. Here are my assets and liability Land at current value : 70 lakhs Gold at current value : 21 lakhs Fixed Deposit : 10 lakhs PF balance : 11 lakhs Sukanya samridhi (annual1.5lakh) : 20 lakh Ppf for son ( annual 1.5 lakh): 14 lakh Direct equity ( 6 lakh invested) : current value : 17 lakhs Mutual Funds Franklin templeton tax saver growth( sip 4000) : 12 lakh Pp flexi cap growth(Sip 2000): 77 thousand Newly started Sip Quant small cap (sip 1000) Edelweiss momemtum (SIP) Liability ( car loan) : 20 lakhs
Ans: Given your age, income, and willingness to take risks, you have a decent mix of assets, but there are areas to focus on for a balanced retirement plan:

Assets:
Your assets are well-diversified with real estate, gold, fixed deposits, and various investment instruments like PF, Sukanya Samriddhi, PPF, direct equity, and mutual funds. However, your direct equity and derivatives trading can be volatile; ensure they align with your risk appetite.

Liabilities:
The car loan is a liability that can impact your monthly cash flow. Consider paying it off sooner to reduce interest costs and free up monthly income.

Suggestions:

Increase Equity Exposure: As you're willing to take risks, consider increasing exposure to equity mutual funds and direct equity investments.

Review Derivatives Trading: Be cautious with options trading due to its speculative nature. Ensure it doesn't dominate your portfolio.

Emergency Fund: Build a separate emergency fund to cover 6-12 months of expenses.

Health and Life Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health and life insurance coverage to protect your family's financial future.

Retirement Corpus: Calculate the required corpus for retirement based on your desired lifestyle post-retirement. Use a retirement calculator to estimate the monthly contributions needed to achieve this goal.

Diversify Investments: Explore other investment avenues like debt funds, international funds, to further diversify your portfolio and manage risks better.
(more)
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Dear Guru, I work in the technology space, and as with most careers, it is challenging and stressful. I work long hours (10-12hrs on avg). My problem is that I get disturbed sleep and am unable to get work related thoughts out of my mind wherein I even dream about solutions to work problems. I am afraid this is going to hurt my health and burn me out soon. Please advise on how I can detach from work to get a refreshing sleep.
Ans: Dear Bhawik!!

Pat yourself on the back for being a committed employee. The problems you have stated happen to most people who give their 100% to their work. Since you already know what it is to be 100% at work, it is time for you to give your 100% at home and to yourself.
You need to mentally detach yourself from work the moment you step out of the office building.
How will you do this? Adopt the following-
1. before leaving the office list out all the activities for tomorrow , prioritise them and mentally commit to them as tasks for tomorrow.
2. as soon as you exit the office building take three deep breaths , inhale and exhale deeply - this is called a transitioning breath which helps you transition from activity to another
3 establish rituals like listening to music( which you love) the moment you leave the building
4. if your transit form office to home takes some time, then practice being in the moment by looking around - the people, the trees, the sky, let all your senses be involved- use your eyes to see, nose to smell, ears to hear the sounds around, feel the breeze in your hair/ on your skin. This makes you feel 100% alive. Stay in the moment.
5. when you reach home, greet your loved ones with a smile
6. spend a little time doing nothing , just be
7. enjoy your meal mindfully
8.take a small walk after your meal
9.spend min 10 mins doing something that brings you joy, for me it is reading a book, what is it for you?
10.go for a guided "Yog Nidra" before sleeping.

Do not intellectualize these suggestions. Just do them. They are tried and tested methods for a proper demarcation between work and home life.
Best wishes for a life well lived and restful sleep..
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Asked by Anonymous - Apr 25, 2024Hindi
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Hi, i have completed my masters in food technology and want to work as freelancers as a auditor in food industry could you guide how to go about doing.
Ans: Transitioning to freelance work as a food industry auditor can offer you flexibility and autonomy in your career. Evaluate your qualifications, experience, and skills in food technology, quality assurance, and auditing. Identify areas where you have expertise and experience that are valuable to potential clients in the food industry. Familiarize yourself with the requirements and standards for food auditing, including regulatory requirements, industry standards (such as ISO 22000, HACCP), and customer specifications. Understand the auditing process, documentation requirements, and audit protocols. Consider obtaining relevant certifications or training in food safety auditing, such as Certified Food Safety Auditor (CFSA), Lead Auditor Training, or other accredited programs. These credentials can enhance your credibility and qualifications as a freelancer. Network with professionals in the food industry, including food manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and regulatory agencies. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with potential clients and collaborators. Determine the specific services you will offer as a food industry auditor, such as food safety audits, quality management system audits, regulatory compliance assessments, or supplier audits. Identify your target market, including food manufacturers, processors, retailers, or food service providers. Develop a professional brand identity for your freelance auditing services, including a business name, logo, website, and marketing materials. Highlight your expertise, qualifications, and unique value proposition to attract potential clients. Determine your pricing structure based on factors such as the complexity of audits, scope of services, and industry standards. Establish clear policies regarding payment terms, project timelines, and confidentiality agreements to protect both your interests and those of your clients. Promote your freelance auditing services through online channels, social media platforms, industry forums, and professional associations. Create content related to food safety, quality assurance, and auditing best practices to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients. Cultivate relationships with potential clients by offering value-added services, such as training, consulting, or ongoing support. Build trust and credibility through transparent communication, professional conduct, and delivering high-quality audit reports and recommendations. Establish systems and processes for managing your freelance business, including client communication, project management, invoicing, and record-keeping. Prioritize time management and organization to balance your freelance work effectively. 

Keep learning, networking, and refining your approach to meet the needs of your clients and achieve your professional goals as a freelancer.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
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I retired earlier now at 53. Invested 7L in ELSS and using 60L on short term equity trading (with monthly average gain 2L) and having own apartment home worth 40L. Having dependent widowed mother, wife with 13 yrs old daughter. Intended to raise daughter as doctor. Please suggest better investment options.
Ans: Congratulations on your early retirement! It sounds like you've made some good initial decisions, but there's definitely room for improvement to secure your family's future, especially considering your dependents. Here's how you can optimize your investments:

Reduce Risk in Short-Term Equity Trading:

While a ?2 lakh monthly gain from short-term trading sounds impressive, it's a very risky strategy. The market can be volatile, and these gains may not be sustainable. Consider allocating a much smaller portion (maybe 10-20%) to short-term trading and focus on more stable options for the majority of your investable assets (?60 lakh currently in trading).
Focus on Long-Term Growth and Stability:

Increase Investment in ELSS: ?7 lakh is a good start, but for your daughter's education and your retirement needs, you'll likely need a much larger corpus. Consider increasing your SIP amount in ELSS or similar diversified equity mutual funds with a long-term horizon (10+ years).
Explore Debt Options for Regular Income:

You mentioned having a dependent mother and daughter's education to plan for. Consider investing a portion (maybe 20-30%) of your investable amount in safer debt options like Public Provident Fund (PPF), Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) for your mother (if she's above 60), or fixed deposits to generate a regular income stream.
Plan for Daughter's Education:

Doctorate studies can be expensive. Start an SIP in a dedicated child education plan or invest in aggressive equity funds specifically for this goal. Talk to a Certfied Financial Planner for personalized recommendations based on the estimated cost of medical education.
Utilize Your Apartment:

While your apartment fulfills your housing needs, consider if it could generate additional income. Explore options like renting a room if feasible.
Seek Professional Guidance:

Given your multiple financial goals and risk tolerance, consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can be highly beneficial. They can create a personalized investment plan considering your risk appetite, time horizon, and financial goals.
(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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