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Am I on the right track with my investments? 27 year old earning 1 lakh per month seeks advice.

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7228 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 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 - Oct 15, 2024Hindi
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Hi, Please check if my investment strategy is good. 27 years old with 1 lakh salary per month. I do a monthly sip of 15k on below mutual funds 1. Parag Parekh flexi cap 2. Tata digital fund - the sectoral one 3. Quant small cap fund I also started investing 10-15k in direct stocks from past few months. Have a home loan of 20k loan for 20 years which I split with my sister. Apart from this I invest in nps scheme, ppf and elss mutual fund for tax benefit I don't really have a long term or retirement goal as of now but I just want to know if I am on the right path for investment incase I find a old later on. Any other suggestions are truly welcome. Thanks in advance.

Ans: At 27 years old with a salary of Rs 1 lakh per month, you have set up a solid foundation for financial growth. Your current strategy of investing through SIPs in a mix of equity funds and direct stocks is commendable. However, let’s assess the suitability of your portfolio from a long-term, retirement-focused perspective and look at areas for potential improvement.

Current SIP Allocation: Fund Selection

Parag Parekh Flexi Cap Fund
This is an actively managed flexi-cap fund. It gives you exposure to a diversified range of large, mid, and small-cap stocks. This is a solid choice for long-term growth. Flexi-cap funds allow fund managers to adapt the portfolio based on market conditions, which gives it an edge over index funds.

Benefit: Active management helps capture market opportunities that index funds might miss. It has the potential for better returns if managed well.

Tata Digital Fund (Sectoral Fund)
Sectoral funds can offer high growth potential, but they are highly volatile. Digital businesses are growing, but the sector can experience sharp corrections during market downturns. Sector-specific funds carry concentration risk, meaning they can underperform if the sector struggles.

Suggestion: Sectoral funds should be a smaller part of your portfolio. Consider reducing the allocation to this fund and diversifying into more stable categories, such as multi-cap or flexi-cap funds.

Quant Small Cap Fund
Small-cap funds have the highest growth potential but also come with higher risk. They are volatile and can be difficult to hold during market downturns. The reward, however, can be substantial if you can stomach the fluctuations.

Insight: Small-cap investments work well over the long term, especially when you have 15-20 years to invest. But in the short term, these funds can be very volatile.

Direct Stocks Investment

You mentioned starting to invest in direct stocks. While this can potentially offer high returns, it also requires more time and knowledge. If you're new to the stock market, investing directly can be riskier than mutual funds, as they require you to actively monitor the market and individual companies.

Risk Factor: Direct stock investments carry higher risk compared to mutual funds. This is because stocks are subject to specific company risks, while mutual funds diversify across multiple stocks.

Suggestion: Consider limiting your direct stock investments. Use a small portion of your monthly savings for direct stock purchases while keeping the majority in diversified mutual funds.

Home Loan

You have a home loan of Rs 20k per month, which is split with your sister. This shows that you are not carrying the entire burden, which is good. However, home loans are long-term liabilities, and managing them effectively is crucial for future financial stability.

Interest Rate: Check the interest rate on your home loan. If it's higher than current market rates, you could consider refinancing it.

Loan Tenure: With 20 years left on your home loan, the EMI is likely to weigh on your finances. While you split it with your sister, try to make additional payments whenever possible to reduce the tenure.

Consideration: Once the home loan is cleared, you’ll have more funds available to ramp up your investments.

Other Investments: NPS, PPF, and ELSS

NPS (National Pension Scheme): NPS is a good option for long-term retirement planning. It allows you to invest in both equity and debt. The tax benefits under Section 80C and additional tax benefits on the amount invested in Tier-2 accounts make it an attractive option.

PPF (Public Provident Fund): PPF is a low-risk investment, and the tax-free interest is a great advantage. However, it has a lower return compared to equity markets.

ELSS for Tax Benefits: You are investing in ELSS funds to take advantage of tax deductions under Section 80C. This is a good way to save tax while investing in equities. However, as your income grows, you may want to explore other investment options for diversification.

No Defined Long-Term Goal Yet

You have mentioned that you do not have a long-term or retirement goal as of now. This is a critical area to focus on. Having a clear investment goal will help you align your asset allocation strategy accordingly.

Importance of a Goal: Without a goal, your investments might lack direction, and you may take more risks than necessary.

Suggested Goals: Consider setting short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial goals. Some examples include:

Building an emergency fund (6-12 months of expenses)
Saving for a down payment on a property (if you wish to buy one)
Creating a retirement corpus to ensure financial independence
Action Plan: Once you define your goals, you can better allocate funds between high-risk (equity) and low-risk (debt) instruments.

Tax Planning and Efficiency

You are already making good use of tax-saving instruments like NPS, PPF, and ELSS. However, as your income increases, you may want to focus more on tax-efficient investments.

Tax Efficiency: Instead of just focusing on tax-saving products, look into creating a well-rounded portfolio that is tax-efficient in the long run.

Mutual Funds vs. Direct Stocks: Keep in mind that direct stocks or non-tax saving investments do not give you tax benefits. Mutual funds (especially equity) offer capital gains tax benefits if held for more than 3 years.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

You have mentioned investing in direct funds. While they may seem attractive, there are certain disadvantages that you should consider.

Lack of Expert Management: Direct funds do not benefit from the expertise of professional fund managers. Active funds are managed by professionals who pick the best stocks based on thorough research.

Higher Cost of Research and Monitoring: With direct investments, you will need to constantly monitor the stocks and make decisions on buying and selling. This can be time-consuming and stressful.

Better Alternatives: Regular funds, managed through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and a mutual fund distributor (MFD), offer the advantage of expert advice and regular portfolio reviews.

Final Insights

You are on the right track in terms of starting your investments early. However, there are areas where you can refine your strategy for better financial growth and future security.

Diversify with Balance: Reduce your sectoral and small-cap fund exposure to avoid too much risk. Diversify into multi-cap or flexi-cap funds for balanced growth.
Set Financial Goals: Define your financial goals now. Whether it's buying property, setting up an emergency fund, or planning for retirement, goals give your investments direction.
Reevaluate Debt: Consider paying off the home loan sooner. Use any extra funds to boost your investments.
Use Expert Help: Moving from direct stock investments to regular funds managed by professionals can lead to better long-term returns.
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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Hi, My age is 37 years and need suggestion if my investment strategy is correct .I dont have specific plans for withdrawal,However looking to save for my kids higher education and comfortable retirement. Currently my monthly investment is distributed as below: i) 130000 SIP in Mutual Fund ( Large Cap 50% : a)DSP equal weight Index fund b)Canara Rob Bluechip C) SBI Contra Midcap 25%: a) Motilal mid b) Quant Mid Smallcap 15%: a) Quant Small b) Canara Rob small Misc. fund 10%: a) ICICI Nasdaq b) Edelweiss Gold+Silver I do step up in SIP based = salary increment I get. ii) 12700 in NPS iii) 40000 in FD instead of debt fund iv) 12000 to PPF 50000 every year in NPS for additional tax saving. Additionally I am already have mutual fund accumulation value of 60 Lakhs (XIRR 21%) and 12lakhs in direct stocks. Term life insurance of 50lakhs. Together with me ,I have one 9year old son and wife living together with my parents. I have no investment in real estate as had very bad experience in past . Staying in parental home. Everyone says one should have real estate investment which currently i dont hav. Please advice about my investment strategy for next 13 years till I reach 50 years of age.
Ans: Evaluating and Optimizing Your Investment Strategy for Long-Term Goals
Comprehensive Portfolio Review
Your diversified investment portfolio reflects a prudent approach towards achieving your financial objectives of funding your children's education and securing a comfortable retirement. Let's assess each component to ensure alignment with your goals and risk tolerance.

Mutual Fund SIPs Allocation
Your allocation to mutual fund SIPs across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap categories is well-diversified, aiming for growth potential while managing risk. Consider periodically reviewing fund performance and rebalancing your portfolio to maintain optimal asset allocation.

National Pension System (NPS) Contributions
Continuing NPS contributions provide tax benefits and long-term retirement savings. Evaluate the suitability of your NPS investment strategy based on your risk profile and retirement goals. Consider adjusting your asset allocation within the NPS to align with your overall portfolio.

Fixed Deposits vs. Debt Funds
Reassess the rationale for allocating funds to Fixed Deposits instead of debt mutual funds. Debt funds offer potentially higher returns and tax efficiency compared to FDs. Evaluate your risk appetite and liquidity needs to determine the optimal allocation between fixed income instruments.

Public Provident Fund (PPF) Contributions
PPF contributions provide tax benefits and long-term wealth accumulation. Evaluate whether the current allocation aligns with your overall asset allocation strategy and consider maximizing contributions to leverage the tax advantages and potential compounding benefits.

Additional NPS Contributions for Tax Saving
Contributing 50,000 annually to NPS for tax savings is beneficial, but ensure it aligns with your retirement goals and risk profile. Evaluate the impact of additional NPS contributions on your overall portfolio diversification and consider alternative tax-saving options if necessary.

Risk Management and Insurance
Your term life insurance coverage provides financial protection for your family. Consider reviewing your insurance needs periodically to ensure adequate coverage based on your evolving financial situation and responsibilities.

Real Estate Investment Consideration
While real estate can be a valuable asset class, your past negative experience warrants caution. Evaluate alternative investment avenues that offer diversification, liquidity, and potential returns aligned with your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Seeking Professional Guidance
Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to conduct a comprehensive review of your investment strategy. A CFP can provide personalized recommendations, optimize your portfolio, and align your investments with your financial objectives and risk tolerance.

Conclusion
By regularly reviewing and optimizing your investment strategy, you can enhance the probability of achieving your financial goals over the next 13 years. Stay disciplined in your savings and investment approach, and seek professional guidance to navigate market dynamics and optimize portfolio performance.

Best Regards,

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

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Ans: First, recognize and honor the strength it has taken to come this far. Buying a home, raising your son, and managing the weight of these challenges on your own are significant accomplishments that reflect your resilience and determination. That said, a marriage is meant to be a partnership, and it’s clear that your husband’s lack of financial contribution and emotional support has created an imbalance that’s unsustainable.

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Seeking professional support, such as individual counseling, can provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings, gain clarity, and develop strategies for managing this situation. A legal consultation might also be helpful to understand your rights and options, especially if you’re considering separation or seeking financial accountability from your husband for your son’s needs.

Above all, focus on what you need to feel secure, respected, and fulfilled—not just as a wife, but as a person. Your son is observing how you handle these challenges, and by prioritizing your well-being and standing up for fairness, you’re also modeling strength and self-respect for him. Whatever steps you decide to take, trust in your ability to make decisions that align with your dignity and values. You deserve a life where your efforts are met with partnership and mutual care.

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Hi i am 43 yrs old, working in a multination firm. Married with a kid who is 7. My relationship with my wife is not going good for some time now, the communication is only transactional. I dont know if she is seeing someone or not, but we feel detached from each other. Now i have developed some feelings at my work with a 24 yr old women, also she seems to be interested in me. But she is also trying to get back to her BF who is studying overseas. I am a bit lost here cause i am toyaly confused on wat to do?
Ans: Open communication with your wife can be incredibly valuable, even if it feels awkward or difficult. Sharing your feelings of detachment and asking her how she feels might provide clarity about where you both stand and whether there’s a willingness to work on rebuilding the connection. Counseling or therapy, either individually or as a couple, can also be a safe space to explore these issues further.

Regarding your feelings for the woman at work, it’s essential to approach this with caution. While the connection might feel exciting and fulfilling, it’s important to ask yourself whether pursuing it is truly in alignment with your values and long-term goals. She also appears to have unresolved feelings toward her boyfriend, which adds another layer of complexity. Relationships born from a place of emotional vulnerability often carry risks, and it’s worth reflecting on whether this is about genuine compatibility or an escape from current challenges.

Your child is also a significant factor to consider. Decisions about your personal relationships inevitably affect your family dynamics, and it’s worth reflecting on what stability and clarity mean for them at this stage in their life.

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I’ve been holding onto a grudge against a friend who hurt me years ago. While I’ve tried to move on, the memories keep coming back, and I feel like it’s stopping me from fully trusting others. How can I let go of this resentment and stop it from affecting my present relationships?
Ans: Letting go of resentment begins with understanding that it’s not about forgetting what happened or excusing the other person’s actions. It’s about freeing yourself from the grip that pain has on your emotions and your ability to trust. Start by creating space to process the hurt. Reflect on what exactly about the situation caused the deepest wound—was it a betrayal, unmet expectations, or feeling disregarded? Sometimes clarity about the source of the pain makes it easier to start releasing it.

You might also want to examine the story you’ve been telling yourself about this hurt. Often, we replay painful memories as if to protect ourselves from being hurt again, but in doing so, we allow the past to shape how we approach the present. Try reframing the narrative, focusing not on what you lost but on how you’ve grown. You’ve survived this hurt, and it’s a testament to your resilience.

Forgiveness can also play a key role, not necessarily as an act for the other person, but as a gift to yourself. Forgiveness doesn’t mean rekindling the friendship or even directly addressing the person—it’s a way of releasing the hold they have on your emotions. You can write a letter to your friend expressing all your feelings and then decide whether to send it or simply let it be a personal act of closure.

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Healing isn’t a straight path, and memories might still surface from time to time. When they do, instead of resisting them, acknowledge them and remind yourself that they no longer have power over you. With patience and self-compassion, you can move forward, lighter and more open to the connections that await you. You deserve the freedom to trust and to live fully in the present.

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I am in my late 60s but still very fit and healthy whereas my wife has lost all the interest in physical intimacy. This has resulted me finding outlet outside my marriage in women half of my age. My girlfriend is a dentist and I am an epidemiologist. She insists that I leave my wife and move with her and eventually we would marry then. She thinks that there is no point in living in a relationship where we have lost interest in each other and are hardly getting physically intimate. Would appreciate your expert advice on this and whether I should continue this way or leave my wife for over 45 years and move with my girlfriend who is 25 years younger than me. We both love each other physically, mentally and intellectually. Thank you.
Ans: After 45 years of marriage, your relationship with your wife is likely built on more than just physical intimacy. A bond of that length often includes shared history, companionship, and mutual support. It’s understandable that the absence of physical intimacy can leave you feeling unfulfilled, but it’s also important to recognize that intimacy in a long-term marriage often evolves beyond physicality into emotional connection and companionship. Ask yourself what your marriage still brings to your life beyond the physical. Are there aspects of your relationship with your wife that you still value and cherish?

Your relationship with your girlfriend seems to fulfill needs that are unmet in your marriage—passion, intellectual connection, and emotional closeness. It’s natural to feel drawn to that, especially when you both feel aligned in multiple dimensions. However, leaving a marriage of such longevity and depth is a monumental decision, not just for you but also for your wife, family, and even your girlfriend. It's important to reflect on the potential consequences of this choice—not just how it could impact your own life, but the ripple effects it may have on others involved.

Before making a decision, consider engaging in open, honest communication with your wife. Share your feelings—not as blame but as a vulnerable expression of what you’re experiencing. Sometimes, long-standing relationships fall into patterns of distance because both partners have stopped discussing their needs openly. If she is willing, exploring counseling together could help both of you understand where you stand and whether there’s a path to rekindling connection, even if it’s not physical intimacy.

With your girlfriend, reflect on what she means to you and what you envision for a shared future. Love and compatibility are powerful forces, but they must be weighed against the potential impact of disrupting your current life. Ensure that this relationship is based on mutual respect and shared values beyond just passion, as relationships outside of marriage can sometimes magnify only the fulfilling aspects while masking potential challenges.

Ultimately, this is about what aligns with your deeper sense of self and integrity. Consider what will allow you to look back on this chapter of your life with peace and not regret. Balancing personal happiness with respect for the commitments you’ve made over the years is not easy, but taking the time to reflect deeply will help you arrive at a decision you can stand by. Whatever choice you make, do so with honesty, compassion, and a clear understanding of its implications.

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Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 07, 2024

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Whenever I face rejection or criticism, I take it very personally and find it hard to bounce back. It affects not just my relationships but also my career. How can I fix this? And trust people who really mean well?
Ans: When we take rejection or criticism personally, it’s often because we tie our self-worth to external validation. Someone’s approval or opinion can start to feel like a measure of who we are, but it’s not. No one moment, person, or comment defines you. Start by reminding yourself that rejection or criticism, as painful as it may be, is not a reflection of your entire being—it’s just one perspective or one moment in time.

Learning to trust people who mean well begins with trusting yourself. When you believe in your own worth, you’ll find it easier to separate genuine feedback from unkind criticism. Practice asking yourself, “Is this coming from someone who truly cares about me, or is this more about their perspective or mood?” When feedback feels harsh, take a step back and evaluate its intent and validity. Not all criticism is meant to hurt; some can help you grow, but you don’t have to accept every opinion as truth.

Building resilience starts with how you treat yourself in those low moments. Instead of replaying the rejection or criticism in your mind, focus on self-compassion. Speak to yourself as you would to a close friend—gently, with kindness and encouragement. Remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments, no matter how small they might feel in that moment.

It’s also helpful to put things into perspective. Rejection or criticism often feels larger than it is because we let it define us in that instant. Ask yourself, “Will this matter a year from now?” or “What can I learn from this?” Shifting from a place of hurt to a place of curiosity can ease the sting and help you move forward.

Finally, trust isn’t built overnight, either with yourself or others. Start by observing the patterns of those who support you consistently. Over time, you’ll learn who truly has your back, and you’ll feel more confident in letting their words and actions hold weight in your life.

This is a process, and it’s okay if it takes time. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and by practicing self-compassion, setting boundaries, and leaning on those who show genuine care, you’ll gradually strengthen your resilience and ability to trust. You’re already taking the first step, and that’s worth celebrating.

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Kanchan Rai  |430 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 07, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2024Hindi
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I'm caught up in a very difficult situation. I had met a Woman through Arranged Marriage Platform, while we both were getting along quite well with each other, I told her that I'm Virgin & asked her about her Past Relationship(s) if any, she denied categorically. We got Engaged, last month (in November) & our Wedding is scheduled next Month (January). Preparations are going on, including Distribution of Invitation cards. A few days ago, a Guy contacted me, claiming to be my Fiancee's Ex Boyfriend. Initially, I didn't take him seriously as I trusted my Fiancee. But then he showed me some Photos & Videos of their Intimate Moments (as it was apparent from the Videos, she seemed to be conscious & fully aware that their intimate moments are being recorded & some of the Photos were Nude/Semi-Nude Selfies, which she'd taken & shared with her ex Boyfriend, by herself... but she had not consented to share them with anyone else). I was Shocked. The Ex Boyfriend Reassured me that he'd also moved on from her & wouldn't bother her after her Marriage, but he was feeling bitter that she'd Dumped him to Marry me & just wanted to make me aware of what kind of Woman I'd be Marrying. I confronted my Fiancee over a Phone Call & asked her to meet me personally, as there were many Questions disturbing my Heart & Mind and I wanted to demand an Explanation from her. But she refused to meet up with me & wouldn't even discuss anything related her Relationship History on Phone Call/Video Call or WhatsApp Chat. She just kept telling me that it was all in her 'Past' & Promised me that after we both get Married, she'd be a Faithful Wife, Loyal to me. I want to have an Open-Heart conversation with her to Re-evaluate our Relationship before taking any big decision further. But, since she's bluntly Refusing to open up & discuss anything about her Past with me, I am losing Trust in her. Now I am in Dilemma, whether I should blindly Trust her & go ahead with the Marriage as Planned or shall discuss the matter with our Parents & get the Marriage Cancelled, to avoid taking such a Big Risk?
Ans: At this moment, it is essential to consider what you need for your own peace of mind. If you cannot trust her fully or feel uneasy without clarity, it is important to address those feelings before committing to marriage. It is not selfish to seek answers or reassurances when your heart and mind are in turmoil. At the same time, be mindful of your approach, as accusations or blame can shut down any chance of constructive communication.

If she continues to avoid the conversation, involving both families might be a reasonable step. This is not about blaming or shaming anyone but about ensuring that both of you enter into marriage with mutual trust and respect. Marriage is a union of not just two individuals but also their values, emotions, and expectations. Without addressing these concerns now, the unresolved doubts could seep into your relationship later and cause greater harm.

It’s also worth reflecting on what you need from your partner to move forward. If her commitment to being loyal and faithful now feels insufficient because of her refusal to engage in an open dialogue, that’s valid. Trust cannot thrive where communication falters. If she can assure you of her devotion and you feel you can let go of her past, there’s a path forward. But if doubts linger and trust remains elusive, stepping back to reassess might be the wiser decision, even if it’s painful in the short term.

Whatever choice you make, be gentle with yourself. This is an emotionally taxing situation, and it’s okay to take time to process everything. Listen to your heart, but also give weight to your instincts—they’re often our clearest guides in moments of uncertainty.

With understanding and strength,

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |430 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 07, 2024

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Hello Ma'am. I am unwilling to disclose my name. I come from a nuclear family based in Kolkata. I am in a very painful situation and I need your suggestion earnestly. The problem arises with my father. He is 66 , retired and a stay at home dad. He has severe anger issues, is demanding and controlling and often tells certain things verbally that are very traumatic for me. My hands and legs tremble and my heart beats rapidly when ever we have an argument as I am a peace loving person. Of late I have realised that I prefer to maintain distance from him . In all honesty I respect him but my love for him has long gone. My mother is a very demure person and is a stay at home mom. In order to not make my father angry or agitated by any means and to maintain peace in the house, she prefers to do what he prefers. I love my mother dearly but my father calls us a bunch of liars and is agitated that I support my mother. Even though I earn, I am in no position to leave my family/ house and shift elsewhere because I respect my mother's will. But I am traumatized and severely in mental agony. I can neither show my anguish nor express my situation to anyone for fear of being misunderstood. I am often asked to remain silent and not talk back to my father but sometimes the words are unbearable. He financially supports our family and you wouldn't believe if I told you that he has a completely different side when he is not in one of his' moods '. But Ma'am, does being the head of the family means to step over others and do what you feel like, irrespective of what the other members in your family feel? Additionally talking or communication with him also fails because he threatens to leave the house or just pushes us away. Even when I am writing this tears are streaming down my face. I am slowly becoming a shell of myself and am scared. Am I being selfish? Am I missing out something? I am so so tired of adjusting and compromising. I believe I have never ever written such a heart felt message. Can you help me out? Can you tell me how things can be resolved? Regards MR
Ans: From what you’ve shared, your father seems to be wrestling with his own frustrations, using control and anger as tools to manage his environment. This does not make it right, nor does it excuse the pain he causes. But understanding that his behavior may stem from internal struggles might help you view the situation with some compassion, even if from a distance.

Your love and respect for your mother shine through your words, and it’s clear that her well-being is a priority for you. The way you support her is a testament to your strength and kindness. But I also sense that her coping mechanism—complying with your father to maintain peace—might unintentionally place an additional burden on you. It’s as though you’re not only protecting yourself but also shielding her, which is an immense responsibility.

You are not alone in feeling conflicted about standing up to your father. It’s not just about his words; it’s about the power dynamics and the emotional weight he holds in the family. His “other side”—the moments when he is kind or approachable—makes it even harder to reconcile the anger and trauma he causes. This duality often creates confusion and guilt, leaving you wondering if you’re overreacting or misjudging him.

What’s most important right now is preserving your emotional well-being. It’s okay to create boundaries, even if they are small and subtle. For instance, when you sense an argument brewing, stepping away or finding a reason to leave the room can help you avoid escalating the situation. If direct communication with him fails, sometimes maintaining emotional distance is the only way to protect yourself.

I also encourage you to find someone you trust to talk to—a counselor, a friend, or even a support group. Sharing your pain with someone who can listen without judgment can lighten your load and help you feel less alone. Writing, as you’ve done here, is also a powerful outlet. Keep journaling—it can provide clarity and a sense of release.

You’ve asked if being the head of the family means stepping over others. The simple answer is no. True leadership in a family should come from love, mutual respect, and understanding. When it turns into control or fear, it becomes harmful. Your father’s actions do not reflect a failure on your part or your family’s; they reflect his own struggles with how to express himself and manage his emotions.

Finally, give yourself permission to feel tired. You are human, and this constant state of tension would drain anyone. But even in your exhaustion, remember this: you are brave, resilient, and full of love for your family. There is no shame in wanting peace, and there is no shame in seeking help to find it.

With heartfelt wishes for your healing and happiness,

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7228 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 07, 2024

Money
My age is 48 and iam earning 2 lacs per month and rental income is 25k My emi home.loa. is.41000 loan for next 20 years Car loan emi is 16000 for average 7 years Fd i have around 30 lacs Ppf 5 lacs I have sip in equity for 15000.per.month mf is 3.90.lacs today. Ppf i have 3 lacs I have 2 kids daughter is 18 and son is 10 yrs. I have health insurance 15 lacs Term.insurance 30 lacs I have private job. Planning to work til 58. Pleaee advice on investments, debts etc..
Ans: You have a stable income, disciplined savings, and manageable loans. Planning for the next 10 years with a focus on debt reduction, investments, and child education is critical.

Current Income and Expenses
1. Monthly Income and Commitments

Salary: Rs. 2,00,000
Rental Income: Rs. 25,000
Home Loan EMI: Rs. 41,000
Car Loan EMI: Rs. 16,000
2. Savings Overview

FD: Rs. 30 Lakhs
PPF: Rs. 5 Lakhs (including Rs. 3 Lakhs new)
SIP in Mutual Funds: Rs. 15,000 monthly, current corpus Rs. 3.9 Lakhs
Goals Assessment
1. Child Education

Your daughter (18 years) will need higher education support soon.

Start estimating costs and align investments accordingly.

Your son (10 years) has 7-8 years for higher education planning.

2. Retirement Planning

You plan to retire at 58 years.
Your income will stop, but expenses and goals like child marriage will remain.
3. Debt Management

Home Loan EMI is Rs. 41,000 for 20 years, requiring long-term commitment.
Car Loan EMI is Rs. 16,000 for the next 7 years, increasing short-term outflow.
Recommendations for Investment
1. Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth

Increase SIPs to Rs. 25,000 monthly for a diversified equity mutual fund portfolio.
Include large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap funds for balanced growth.
Ensure you invest through a Certified Financial Planner for professional advice.
2. Debt Mutual Funds for Stability

Shift a portion of FD to debt mutual funds for better post-tax returns.
Ensure at least 20% of your portfolio is in stable debt funds.
3. PPF Contributions

Continue PPF contributions for tax-saving benefits and risk-free returns.
Invest up to Rs. 1.5 Lakhs annually to utilise the full tax exemption.
Debt Management Strategies
1. Accelerate Home Loan Repayment

Use surplus income or maturing FDs to prepay the home loan.
Reducing tenure lowers overall interest outgo significantly.
2. Reassess Car Loan

Evaluate if car loan can be repaid earlier using your FDs.
This will free Rs. 16,000 monthly for investment or other priorities.
Child Education Planning
1. Create a Separate Education Fund

Start SIPs in hybrid or balanced advantage mutual funds for your daughter’s education.
For your son, invest in mid-cap and flexi-cap mutual funds for long-term growth.
2. Use Debt Funds for Near-Term Needs

For education expenses in the next 2-3 years, use debt mutual funds or FDs.
Avoid equity funds for short-term needs due to market volatility.
Insurance Review
1. Health Insurance

Your health cover of Rs. 15 Lakhs is good.
Add a super top-up policy to increase coverage to Rs. 25-30 Lakhs.
2. Term Insurance

Current term cover of Rs. 30 Lakhs may be insufficient.
Increase it to Rs. 1 Crore to protect your family’s financial future.
Tax Efficiency Planning
1. Optimise Deductions

Use the full Rs. 1.5 Lakhs limit under Section 80C through PPF and ELSS.
Claim home loan interest deductions under Section 24(b).
2. Plan Mutual Fund Redemptions

Be mindful of the new mutual fund capital gains tax rules.
Plan redemptions strategically to minimise tax liability.
Final Insights
Your financial foundation is strong, but you must focus on efficient planning. Prioritise debt reduction, increase SIP contributions, and optimise your portfolio. Separate education funds and ensure adequate insurance coverage. With these steps, you can achieve financial freedom by 58 years.

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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