Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

How can I increase my passive income to Rs 1 lakh/month by 54?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 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
Krishna Question by Krishna on Jul 10, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi Mam, Good day I am 46 years old earning about 3 Lakh per month. I am Planning to retire by 54 years. My current assets/ savings are as follows: Properties and plots - 6.5 crores PF, PPF and NPS - 25 Lakhs FD - 50 Lakhs Emergency fund - 8 Lakhs Stocks and Mutual Fund - 25 Lakhs Gold - 90 Lakhs LIC and Tax saver funds - 25 Lakhs Other Investments - 5 Lakhs Apart from this I have a Term insurance of Rs. 1 crore and medical insurance of Rs. 15 Lakh. I have my own house so need to pay any rent. Currently I am getting an additional income of 65000 with my asset/ saving through rent and interest. I want to increase my additional income to Rs. 1 Lakh/month. What is the best way to increase my additional income of Rs. 35000 in next 8 years to have a peaceful retirement. Thanks for your advice in advance. Regards, Krishna Prasad

Ans: Dear Krishna Prasad,

Good day! Thank you for sharing the details of your financial landscape. Your disciplined approach towards saving and investing is commendable and sets a strong foundation for a secure retirement. Let's delve into the specifics of how you can enhance your additional income by Rs. 35,000 per month over the next eight years to achieve your goal of a peaceful retirement by age 54.

Reviewing Your Asset Allocation
Properties and Plots: Rs. 6.5 Crores

Real estate constitutes a significant portion of your portfolio. While this is a stable and appreciating asset, it isn't highly liquid. Therefore, it's crucial to focus on other investments for increasing your monthly income.

Provident Fund, Public Provident Fund, and National Pension System: Rs. 25 Lakhs

These are excellent for long-term growth and tax benefits. However, their contribution to your monthly income is minimal.

Fixed Deposits: Rs. 50 Lakhs

Fixed deposits provide safety but typically offer lower returns compared to other investment avenues. We'll explore better alternatives while keeping a portion for safety.

Emergency Fund: Rs. 8 Lakhs

Maintaining an emergency fund is wise. This should remain untouched for unforeseen expenses.

Stocks and Mutual Funds: Rs. 25 Lakhs

This portion of your portfolio can generate higher returns and income through dividends and capital gains.

Gold: Rs. 90 Lakhs

Gold is a good hedge against inflation but doesn’t generate monthly income. We should consider how to optimize its role in your portfolio.

LIC and Tax Saver Funds: Rs. 25 Lakhs

These offer moderate returns and tax benefits. Reviewing these investments for potential improvement in returns could be beneficial.

Other Investments: Rs. 5 Lakhs

We can analyze these for better alignment with your income goals.

Term Insurance: Rs. 1 Crore and Medical Insurance: Rs. 15 Lakhs

These policies provide necessary protection and should be retained.

Enhancing Monthly Income
To achieve an additional Rs. 35,000 per month, let's consider various strategies. Each has its own risk and return profile, which we'll assess in detail.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Systematic Withdrawal Plans from mutual funds allow you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly. This strategy helps in generating a steady income stream while your principal continues to grow.

Advantages:

Potential for higher returns than fixed deposits.
Flexibility in withdrawal amounts.
Considerations:

Market volatility can affect the fund value.
Requires careful selection of funds with stable performance.
Dividend-Paying Stocks
Investing in high-dividend-paying stocks can provide a regular income stream. These companies distribute a portion of their earnings to shareholders regularly.

Advantages:

Potential for capital appreciation along with dividend income.
Dividends can provide tax-efficient income.
Considerations:

Stock prices can be volatile.
Requires thorough research and selection of reliable companies.
High-Yield Debt Funds
Debt funds with a focus on high-yield bonds can offer better returns than traditional fixed deposits.

Advantages:

Better returns compared to fixed deposits.
Diversification of risk.
Considerations:

Credit risk associated with bonds.
Interest rate risk can affect fund value.
Balanced Advantage Funds
These funds dynamically manage the asset allocation between equity and debt based on market conditions. This can provide growth and income with moderate risk.

Advantages:

Automatic adjustment between equity and debt.
Potential for stable returns with lower risk.
Considerations:

Performance depends on the fund manager's strategy.
May have higher management fees.
Gold Monetization Scheme
If you have idle gold, consider the Gold Monetization Scheme. It offers interest on your gold holdings while keeping the asset intact.

Advantages:

Earn interest on otherwise idle gold.
Retain gold's value.
Considerations:

Limited liquidity compared to selling gold.
Interest rates may be lower than other investments.
Regularly Review and Rebalance Your Portfolio
It's crucial to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and market conditions.

Steps:

Review asset performance semi-annually or annually.
Rebalance to maintain desired asset allocation.
Adjust investments based on changing goals or market outlook.
Tax Efficiency
Maximizing tax efficiency can enhance your net income.

Strategies:

Utilize tax-free bonds for tax-efficient interest income.
Opt for tax-efficient mutual fund investments.
Leverage tax deductions and exemptions available under the Income Tax Act.
Exploring SIP in Mutual Funds
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in mutual funds allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, building a substantial corpus over time.

Advantages:

Disciplined investment approach.
Rupee cost averaging mitigates market volatility.
Considerations:

Requires long-term commitment for best results.
Market risk associated with equity mutual funds.
Leveraging Professional Guidance
Working with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice tailored to your unique situation. They can help in optimizing your portfolio, ensuring your investments align with your income and retirement goals.

Benefits:

Expert analysis and recommendations.
Regular monitoring and adjustment of your financial plan.
Comprehensive approach to financial planning.
Diversification
Diversification across asset classes reduces risk and enhances potential returns.

Approach:

Balance investments between equity, debt, and alternative assets.
Avoid over-concentration in any single asset class.
Regularly review and adjust diversification strategy.
Final Insights
Krishna, your financial discipline has set a strong foundation for your retirement. By optimizing your existing portfolio and exploring new investment avenues, you can achieve your goal of increasing your additional income to Rs. 1 lakh per month. Focus on diversifying your investments, leveraging professional guidance, and maintaining a regular review schedule. This strategic approach will help you achieve a comfortable and peaceful retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
Asked on - Jul 22, 2024 | Answered on Jul 24, 2024
Listen
Dear Sir, Thanks for your response. I have currently 9cr valued assets for retirement. How to make my asset grow to 10 Cr in the next 8 years. I am planning to retire with an asset of 10 Cr. Thanks for your advice in advance. Regards, Krishna Prasad
Ans: To grow your assets to Rs. 10 crore in the next 8 years, consider these strategies:

9 Crore Asset can easily become 10 crores in 8 years.

Increase SIP Contributions: Allocate more to diversified mutual funds for higher returns.
Regular Portfolio Review: Adjust based on performance and market conditions.

Professional Guidance: Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for tailored advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 13, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi I am currently not working. I am 53 years old. My Fnf amount is going to be around 6 lacs. I have 67 lacs in MIC getting around Rs 33000 as monthly interest. I have no other income sources as of now. Have invested around 4.5 lacs in MFs and SIP of Rs 7000 pm going on curently. Insurance premium is 1.5 lacs annually and health insurance is of 15 lacs. All are active. I have my own accomodation without any loans running upon it. It is valued at 25 lacs. No PLs or Credit Card outstandings as I don't use them. Gold is valued around 30 lacs. PPF balance is 5 lacs. A shop valued around 7 lacs. Not on rent presently. Savings in bank accounts is 6 lacs presently. Job is not gauranteed nowadays. Monthly expenditure is Rs 65000 including all savings investments My current age is 53 years and am the only bread earner for my family. I have an insurance coverage of 1 crore on myself. No additional income sources presently. How to increase my present income from available resources to around Rs 65000 pm atleast ? How can I raise atleast 2.5 crores by the time my only daughter turns 18 yrs which is 8 yrs away ?
Ans: Given your current financial situation and goals, here's a plan to increase your income and work towards accumulating Rs 2.5 crores by the time your daughter turns 18:

Optimize Existing Investments: Evaluate your current investments, including fixed deposits, mutual funds, and gold. Consider reallocating some of your assets to investments with higher potential returns, such as equity mutual funds or stocks, based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Maximize Returns on Fixed Deposits: Explore options to maximize returns on your fixed deposits (MIC). Consider reinvesting the maturity amount in instruments offering higher interest rates, such as corporate deposits or debt mutual funds.

Review Insurance Policies: Assess your insurance coverage to ensure it meets your family's needs adequately. Consider optimizing your insurance portfolio to reduce premiums while maintaining sufficient coverage. Evaluate the possibility of switching to term insurance for cost savings.

Monetize Unused Assets: Consider selling or renting out the shop to generate additional income. Evaluate the potential rental income compared to the current market value of the property. Utilize the proceeds from the sale or rent to further invest in income-generating assets.

Explore Part-Time Work: Given the uncertainty of your job, consider exploring part-time or freelance opportunities in your field of expertise. Utilize your skills and experience to generate additional income while allowing flexibility in your schedule.

Increase Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Contributions: If possible, consider increasing your SIP contributions to mutual funds. Focus on funds with a track record of consistent returns and align with your risk profile. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to optimize returns.

Create Additional Income Streams: Explore alternative income streams such as rental income from the shop, dividend income from investments, or online business opportunities. Diversifying your income sources can provide stability and resilience against financial uncertainties.

Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting a financial advisor to tailor a comprehensive financial plan that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. A professional advisor can provide personalized recommendations and guidance to optimize your financial resources.

By implementing these strategies and consistently reviewing your financial plan, you can work towards increasing your current income and accumulating the desired corpus for your daughter's future needs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 19, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 14, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Currently I am 54 years old & following is the corpus build till now, left job / voluntarily retired 3 months ago, need financial advise for future!!!! 1. Total 3 nos Flat owned, current market value a. Rs 2.60 Cr (out of which Rs 1.25 Cr Home loan balance OD a/c) b. Rs 1.4Cr & c. Rs 35 Lacs (currently residing) 2. Rs 90 Lacs Cash parked in OD Home loan a/c 3. Rs 90 lacs accumulated in EPF a/c, getting interest & not planning to withdraw till 58 years of retire age. 4. Receiving monthly Rent from Flat a. & b. = Rs. 1 lac + Rs 50k = Rs. 1.5 Lac/month 5. Rs 2 Lakhs in Equity 6. Term insurance - 1.25 Cr+ 1Cr = 2.25 Cr Liability:- a. Daughters education (1 year in India & 2 years Masters in Australia + Marriage b. Rs 90 lacs home loan balance as. Stated above... c. monthly Expenses - 75k Kindly suggest investment ideas to increase corpus for healthy retirement .. Thanks & Regards
Ans: Real Estate Assets
You own three flats with a total market value of Rs 4.35 crores. The first flat has a home loan balance of Rs 1.25 crores. The second and third flats have a combined market value of Rs 1.75 crores.

This is a significant asset base. The rental income from these properties is Rs 1.5 lakhs per month. This steady income is a positive aspect of your portfolio.

Cash Reserves
You have Rs 90 lakhs parked in your OD home loan account. This reduces the interest burden on your home loan. It's wise to keep this amount liquid for emergencies and short-term needs.

EPF Accumulation
Your EPF account has Rs 90 lakhs. It’s generating interest, and you plan to keep it until 58 years. This is a good strategy for tax-efficient growth.

Equity Investments
You have Rs 2 lakhs in equity investments. This is a small part of your portfolio. Equities can provide high returns but come with high risks. Diversification is essential to balance risk and return.

Insurance Coverage
You have term insurance coverage of Rs 2.25 crores. This ensures financial security for your family in case of an unfortunate event.

Liabilities and Obligations
Your primary liabilities include:

Rs 1.25 crore home loan balance.
Funding your daughter's education and marriage.
Monthly expenses of Rs 75,000.
Investment Strategy for Healthy Retirement
Debt Management
Continue using the Rs 90 lakhs in your OD account to reduce the home loan interest. Pay off the home loan faster to reduce financial stress. This will improve your cash flow.

Rental Income
Ensure your rental properties are well-maintained. This will help retain tenants and maintain rental income. Consider rental agreements for security.

Equity Investments
Increase your exposure to equity investments. Equity mutual funds can provide better returns than direct stocks. Consider large-cap and diversified equity funds. This will balance risk and returns.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Start an SWP from your mutual funds after you retire fully. This will provide a steady monthly income. It’s tax-efficient and offers better returns than fixed deposits.

Emergency Fund
Keep at least 6 months of expenses as an emergency fund. This should be in a liquid and accessible form. Consider liquid mutual funds or high-interest savings accounts.

Health Insurance
Ensure you have adequate health insurance. Medical costs can be high, especially in retirement. A family floater health insurance plan is recommended.

Daughter’s Education and Marriage
Start a separate fund for your daughter’s education and marriage. Consider child-specific mutual funds. This will ensure you have enough when needed without affecting your retirement corpus.

Retirement Corpus Growth
Maximize your retirement corpus growth by investing in a mix of debt and equity funds. A balanced fund can provide a good mix of stability and growth. Regular funds with a Certified Financial Planner’s guidance can help optimize returns.

Tax Planning
Utilize tax-saving instruments to reduce your tax liability. ELSS funds can offer tax benefits under Section 80C. Plan withdrawals from your EPF and other investments to minimize tax.

Regular Reviews
Regularly review your investment portfolio. Adjust your investments based on market conditions and your financial goals. A Certified Financial Planner can help you stay on track.

Final Insights
Your current financial situation is strong. Focus on reducing liabilities, optimizing returns, and planning for your daughter’s future. Maintain adequate insurance and an emergency fund.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice. They can help tailor a strategy to your needs and ensure a healthy, stress-free retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 22, 2024

Money
Hi sir Am 46 yr old and my financial investment are as below : 1) recently started SIP with 45k monthly investment. 2) am investing in NPS 20k monthly for last 8 years (currently 25 lacs in nps portfolio) 3) am investing in sukanya 70k annually for past 9 years (currents 8 lacs in portfolio) 4) commercial property worth 1.8 cr generating me rent of 70k monthly 5) 1 flat worth 1.7 cr generating me rent of 40k monthly) 6) 1 floor where am staying worth 1.8 cr has a loan going with emi of 66 k which i plan to close within next 4 to 5 yrs max 7) PF is 22 lacs as of now due to some withdrawals earlier. But am doing additional vpf of 10k monthly apart from 25k which gets invested from my salary 8) my take home salary is 2.7 lacs monthly I want to retire in another 7 to 8 years.pls suggest what i need to do or plan so as to have monthly 3lacs income
Ans: First off, kudos on taking charge of your financial future. You have a diversified portfolio with multiple investments, and that's great. Let's break down your current investments and see how you can reach your goal of Rs 3 lakhs monthly income post-retirement.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
You've recently started a SIP with a monthly investment of Rs 45,000. SIPs are a fantastic way to build wealth over time. By investing regularly, you benefit from rupee cost averaging and the power of compounding. Given your goal, it's important to keep a close eye on the performance of the mutual funds you've chosen.

If you're in actively managed funds, ensure they consistently outperform their benchmarks. If any fund underperforms for an extended period, consider switching to a better-performing one. Actively managed funds, guided by professional fund managers, can potentially offer higher returns than passive funds.

National Pension System (NPS)
You've been investing Rs 20,000 monthly in NPS for the last eight years, with a current portfolio value of Rs 25 lakhs. NPS is a great choice for retirement planning due to its low cost and tax benefits.

However, NPS comes with certain withdrawal restrictions and partial annuitization at retirement. To maximize benefits, regularly review your asset allocation between equity, corporate bonds, and government securities. Adjust it based on market conditions and your risk tolerance. Given your timeline, consider increasing equity exposure slightly to boost potential returns.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
You're investing Rs 70,000 annually in Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for the past nine years, with a current corpus of Rs 8 lakhs. This is a wonderful scheme for your daughter's future, offering high-interest rates and tax benefits. Keep this investment untouched until maturity to fully benefit from its tax-free interest.

Real Estate Investments
You own commercial property worth Rs 1.8 crores, generating Rs 70,000 monthly rent, and a flat worth Rs 1.7 crores, generating Rs 40,000 monthly rent. These provide a substantial passive income, which is excellent.

However, real estate investments come with risks like maintenance costs, tenant issues, and market fluctuations. While they are stable, they aren't very liquid. Keep this in mind as you plan for retirement, where liquidity can be crucial.

Residential Property and Loan
Your home is worth Rs 1.8 crores, and you're paying an EMI of Rs 66,000. Planning to close this loan within 4-5 years is wise. Once the loan is repaid, your cash flow will improve significantly. Until then, ensure you have a buffer to handle EMIs without stress.

Provident Fund (PF) and Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF)
Your current PF balance is Rs 22 lakhs, with an additional VPF contribution of Rs 10,000 monthly, apart from Rs 25,000 from your salary. Provident Fund is a safe and stable investment, offering guaranteed returns and tax benefits. Your regular contributions will compound over time, providing a substantial corpus at retirement.

Take-Home Salary and Expenses
Your take-home salary is Rs 2.7 lakhs monthly. With disciplined savings and investments, you're on a strong path. However, it's essential to ensure that your expenses are well-managed, allowing you to save and invest consistently. Budgeting is key here. Track your spending and identify areas where you can cut back, if necessary.

Setting Clear Retirement Goals
To retire with a monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs, we need to build a significant corpus. Let's look at the broad strategies to achieve this.

Increase SIP Contributions: If possible, gradually increase your SIP contributions. Even a small increase can make a big difference over time due to compounding.

Asset Allocation: Diversify your investments across different asset classes – equities, debt, and gold. Equities can offer higher returns, debt provides stability, and gold acts as a hedge against inflation.

Tax Efficiency: Ensure your investments are tax-efficient. Utilize all available tax-saving instruments to minimize tax liability and maximize returns.

Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund to cover at least 6-12 months of expenses. This ensures you won't have to dip into your investments during a financial crunch.

Insurance: Adequate life and health insurance are crucial. This protects your family and savings from unforeseen medical expenses or financial loss.

Enhancing Your Investment Strategy
Active Management Over Passive
While passive funds like index funds track a benchmark, actively managed funds aim to outperform it. This can lead to better returns if the fund manager makes smart investment decisions. Since you've not mentioned index funds, it's good to focus on active management where fund managers actively select stocks.

Regular Fund Investments
Direct funds might seem cheaper due to lower expense ratios, but regular funds through a certified financial planner can be beneficial. They offer professional advice and help optimize your portfolio. A financial planner provides valuable insights, ensuring your investments align with your goals and risk tolerance.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio. This involves adjusting your investments to maintain your desired asset allocation. For instance, if equities perform well and exceed your target allocation, sell some and reinvest in underperforming assets. This ensures you stay on track to meet your goals while managing risk.

Maximizing NPS Benefits
As you get closer to retirement, consider shifting some NPS funds to safer assets like government bonds. This reduces risk as you near your goal. Also, explore options within NPS to ensure you're getting the best possible returns with minimal risk.

Building a Robust Retirement Corpus
Given your diverse investments, you're well on your way to building a robust retirement corpus. To achieve Rs 3 lakhs monthly income, let's look at the sources:

Rental Income: Your commercial and residential properties already generate Rs 1.1 lakhs monthly. Ensure properties are well-maintained to avoid tenant turnover and vacancies.

NPS and PF: Continue maximizing contributions to NPS and PF. At retirement, these can be significant sources of income.

SIP and Mutual Funds: Regular SIP investments in mutual funds will grow over time. Ensure a mix of equity and debt funds to balance growth and stability.

VPF Contributions: Your VPF contributions add to your retirement corpus, providing a stable and guaranteed return.

Exploring Additional Investment Options
Equity Investments
Equities offer the potential for high returns but come with higher risk. Given your time frame, you can consider increasing equity exposure. Diversified equity mutual funds or blue-chip stocks can be good options. Ensure you have a balanced approach, considering your risk tolerance.

Debt Instruments
Debt instruments like corporate bonds, government securities, and fixed deposits provide stability and regular income. Allocate a portion of your portfolio to these to balance risk. Look for options offering higher interest rates with good credit ratings.

Gold Investments
Gold is a traditional hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. Consider investing a small portion of your portfolio in gold through ETFs or sovereign gold bonds. This diversifies your portfolio and adds a layer of security.

Planning for Inflation and Taxes
Inflation Protection
Inflation can erode your purchasing power over time. Ensure your investments grow faster than inflation. Equities and real estate generally outpace inflation, while debt instruments may lag. Keep this in mind while planning your asset allocation.

Tax Planning
Tax-efficient investing is crucial. Utilize available tax deductions and exemptions. For instance, investments in NPS, PF, and certain mutual funds offer tax benefits. Consult with a tax advisor to optimize your tax strategy, ensuring you retain more of your returns.

Financial Discipline and Regular Review
Consistent Investments
Stay disciplined with your investments. Regular contributions, even during market downturns, ensure you benefit from compounding and rupee cost averaging.

Periodic Reviews
Regularly review your financial plan and investments. Life circumstances and market conditions change, requiring adjustments to your strategy. A certified financial planner can help with this, ensuring you stay on track.

Emergency Preparedness
Maintain an emergency fund and adequate insurance coverage. This safeguards your investments and ensures financial stability during unforeseen events.

Final Insights
Your diversified investments and disciplined approach are commendable. To retire with a monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs, focus on maximizing returns, managing risk, and maintaining financial discipline. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio, ensuring it aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. By doing so, you're well on your way to a secure and comfortable retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 30, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi, I am 41 years old and Married. I have 2 kids one daughter 15 years and son 7 years old. I am drawing annually 24 Lakhs salary. Having 3 houses one self occupied and two give letout with annual 4.2 lakhs rental income. All houses worth together 3 Crores. Housing loans principle outstanding of 85 lakhs with interest rate of 8.6% with monthly EMI of 1.13 lakhs per month for next 9 years. As of today I have SIP worth 90 lakhs with an IRR of 20%, Bank FD 30 lakhs – 7%, PPF 47 lakhs and PF 26 lakhs. I have term insurance of 1 CR and my wife term insurance of 50 Lakhs. For these for next 5 years, I have to pay premium of 1 lakh per annum. Medical insurance from company 5 lakh per annum for my family of 4 members. I am continuing my SIP of 86K per month – flexi cap 24L, small cap 29K, large cap 19K, Mid cap 14K. Any shortage of funds, I am moving from FD to SIP gradually. (SIP started 7 years back - started with 15K and now SIP at 86K) My annual expenses comes to 15 Lakhs including everything. I would like to take retirement at 50 years. Please check my details and suggest for any modifications for better returns. Also, please let me know how I can meet with liquid assets of 20 crores (in addition to my current properties) Thanks!
Ans: You have a strong financial foundation.
Your salary and rental income total Rs. 28.2 lakhs per year.
Your housing loan EMI is Rs. 1.13 lakh per month, which is manageable.
Your investments are well-diversified across mutual funds, FDs, PPF, and PF.
Your SIP portfolio has delivered an excellent IRR of 20%.
You have term insurance for yourself and your wife.
Your annual expenses are Rs. 15 lakhs, which is reasonable.
You have medical insurance of Rs. 5 lakh from your employer.
You gradually move funds from FD to SIP, which is a good strategy.
Your goal is to accumulate Rs. 20 crores in liquid assets within the next 9 years.
Retirement Readiness Assessment
You have 9 years left until your target retirement age of 50.
Your current investments are significant, but reaching Rs. 20 crores requires strategic planning.
Your housing loan is a major commitment, but it will end in 9 years.
Your SIP contributions are already strong and should continue.
Your rental income is a bonus but not reliable for long-term financial security.
Modifications for Better Returns
Increase SIP Gradually
Your SIP of Rs. 86K per month is excellent.
As your salary increases, try to increase SIP by at least 10-15% annually.
Move more funds from FD to SIP, as FD returns are low.
Reallocate Fixed-Income Investments
Your PPF and PF are too conservative.
You can stop fresh PPF contributions and allocate that amount to equity.
Maintain some FD for emergency funds but move excess FD to high-return investments.
Prepay Housing Loan or Invest More?
Your housing loan has an 8.6% interest rate.
Your SIP IRR is 20%, which is higher than your loan rate.
Instead of prepaying, continue investing in equity for wealth creation.
Additional Insurance Coverage
Your company’s medical insurance of Rs. 5 lakh is insufficient.
Consider a separate family floater health insurance of Rs. 15-20 lakh.
Your term insurance coverage is reasonable. No changes are needed.
Achieving Rs. 20 Crores in Liquid Assets
Step 1: Projected Investment Growth
Your SIP portfolio of Rs. 90 lakhs at 20% IRR can grow significantly in 9 years.
If you continue SIPs aggressively, you can accumulate a substantial corpus.
Additional investments from FD and PPF reallocations will further boost growth.
Step 2: Boosting Investment Contributions
As you get salary hikes, increase your monthly SIPs.
Reduce unnecessary expenses to redirect more funds into investments.
Consider lump sum investments when you receive bonuses or windfalls.
Step 3: Maintaining Investment Discipline
Stick to actively managed mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner.
Stay invested during market fluctuations and avoid emotional decision-making.
Continue tracking and rebalancing your portfolio annually.
Finally
Your financial plan is strong, but small modifications can make a huge difference.
Increasing SIPs, reallocating low-yield investments, and maintaining discipline are key.
You are on track to build Rs. 20 crores in liquid assets if you execute this plan well.
Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Anu

Anu Krishna  |1746 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 08, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi i am 40M. would request your help to understand what should be the corpus required for retirement as i want to get retired in next 3-5yrs. currently my take home is 2.3L monthly & my wife also works but leaving the job in next 2-3 months. we have a daughter 10yrs, currently i stay on rent and total monthly expense is 1.1L month. once i will retire we will shift in our own parental flat, where hopefully there will be no rent. current Investments 1. 50L in REC bonds getting matured in 2029 2. 42L in stocks 3. 17L in MF 4. 16L FD 5. 15L in PPF 6. 1.3L SIP monthly i do My Wife Investments 1. 30L corpus 2. flat with current value 40L and we get rental of 10K monthly. Please guide what should be the retirement corpus required combined to retire, assuming i need 75L for my daughter post grad and marriage and we would be requiring 75K monthly for our expenses after retiring
Ans: You have explained your income, goals, current assets, and future plans with great clarity. Your early planning spirit is strong. This gives a very good base. You can reach a peaceful retirement with smart steps in the next few years.

» Your Current Position

You are 40 years old. You plan to retire in 3 to 5 years. You earn Rs 2.3 lakh per month. Your wife also works but will stop working soon. You have one daughter aged 10. Your current monthly cost is around Rs 1.1 lakh. This cost will reduce after retirement because you will shift to your parental flat.

Your investment base is already good. You have saved in bonds, stocks, mutual funds, PPF, FD, and SIP. Your wife also has her own savings and rental income from a flat. All these create a good starting point.

This early base helps you plan stronger. It also gives room for more shaping. You are on the right road.

» Your Family Goals

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s higher education and marriage.

You want Rs 75,000 per month for family living after retirement.

You want to retire in 3 to 5 years.

You will shift to your parental flat after retirement.

You will have rental income of Rs 10,000 from your wife’s flat.

These goals are clear. They give direction. They allow a strong plan.

» Your Present Investments

Your investments include:

Rs 50 lakh in REC bonds maturing in 2029.

Rs 42 lakh in stocks.

Rs 17 lakh in mutual funds.

Rs 16 lakh in fixed deposits.

Rs 15 lakh in PPF.

Rs 1.3 lakh as monthly SIP.

Your wife holds:

Rs 30 lakh corpus.

A flat worth Rs 40 lakh with rent of Rs 10,000 each month.

Your combined net worth is healthy. This gives good power to build your retirement fund in the coming years.

» Understanding Your Expense Need After Retirement

You expect Rs 75,000 per month after retirement. This includes all basic needs. You will not have rent. That reduces cost. This assumption looks fair today.

Your cost will rise with inflation. So you must plan for rising needs. A strong retirement corpus must support rising cost for 40 to 45 years because you are retiring early.

An early retirement needs a large buffer. So you need safety along with growth. Your plan must include growth assets and safety assets.

» How Much Monthly Income You Will Need Later

Rs 75,000 per month is Rs 9 lakh per year. In future years, this cost can rise. If we assume steady rise, your future cost will be much higher.

So the retirement corpus must be designed to:

Give monthly income.

Beat inflation.

Support you for 40 to 45 years.

Protect your family even in market down cycles.

Allow flexibility if your needs change.

A strong retirement fund must support both safety and long-term growth.

» How Much Corpus You Should Target

A safe target is a large and flexible corpus that can support long years without running out of money. For early retirement, the usual thumb rule suggests a very high number. This is because you need income for many decades.

You need a corpus big enough to produce rising income. You also need a cushion for unexpected health costs, lifestyle shocks, and inflation changes.

Your target retirement corpus should be in a strong range. For your needs of Rs 75,000 per month and for goals like daughter’s education and marriage, you should aim for a combined retirement readiness corpus in the higher bracket.

A safe range for your family would be a very large number crossing multiple crores. This large range gives you:

Income safety.

Inflation protection.

Peace during market cycles.

Comfort in long life.

Room for daughter’s future.

Strong backup for health.

You are already on the way due to your existing assets. You will reach close to this range with systematic building over the next 3 to 5 years.

» Why You Need This Larger Corpus

You will retire early. That means more years of living from your corpus. Your corpus must not fall early. It must grow even after retirement. It must give monthly income and long-term family protection.

This is only possible when the corpus is strong and well-structured. A weak corpus creates stress. A strong corpus creates freedom.

Also, your daughter’s future cost must be kept aside. This must be parked in a separate fund. This must not touch your retirement money.

A strong corpus makes these two worlds separate and safe.

» Your Existing Assets and Their Strength

You already have good diversification:

Bonds give safety.

Stocks give growth.

Mutual funds give managed growth.

FD gives stability.

PPF gives tax-free long-term savings.

This blend is already a good start. But you need to make the blend more structured for early retirement.

Your Rs 1.3 lakh monthly SIP is also strong. It builds your future fast. You should continue.

Your wife’s rental income is small but steady. This adds strength.

Your combined financial base can reach your retirement target if you refine your allocation now.

» Your Daughter’s Future Fund Need

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s education and marriage. You should keep this goal separate from your retirement goal.

Your current SIP and future allocations should create a dedicated fund for this goal. A long-term fund can grow well when managed actively.

Do not mix this fund with your retirement needs. Mixing leads to shortage in old age. Always keep this corpus ring-fenced.

» A Strong Asset Mix For Your Retirement Path

A balanced mix is needed. You need growth assets to beat inflation. You also need stable assets for income.

You must avoid index funds because they do not give flexibility. Index funds follow a fixed index. They cannot make active changes in different markets. They cannot move to better stocks when markets change. They force you to stay in weak sectors for long. They also do not help you in down cycles because they cannot protect you by shifting to safer options. This can hurt retirement planning.

Actively managed funds are better because:

They give active asset selection.

They give scope for better returns.

They give flexibility to change sectors.

They give downside management.

They give access to a skilled fund manager.

They support long-term planning more safely.

Direct plans also carry risk. Direct plans do not give guidance. They do not give behavioural support. They do not give market timing help. They do not give portfolio shaping. They leave all the judgement to you. One mistake can cost years of wealth.

Regular plans with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner help you shape decisions. They help you remain disciplined. They help you avoid panic. They help you decide allocation changes at the right time. This saves wealth in long-term.

» How Your Investment Journey Should Grow in the Next 3–5 Years

Continue your SIP.

Increase SIP when your income rises.

Shift part of your stock holding into planned long-term mutual funds to reduce concentration risk.

Build a defined daughter’s education fund.

Keep a part of your REC bond maturity amount for long-term.

Avoid locking too much into fixed deposits for long periods.

Build a safety fund for one year of expenses.

This will create a full structure.

» Your Rental Income Role

Your rental income of Rs 10,000 per month is small but steady. Over time it will rise. This income will support your monthly cash flow after retirement.

You can use this for utilities or health insurance premiums. This gives a cushion.

» Your Emergency Buffer

You should keep at least one year of essential cost in a safe place. This can be in a liquid account or short-term fund. This protects you in shocks.

Since you plan early retirement, a strong buffer is important. It gives peace even in low months.

» A Structured Retirement Approach

A complete retirement plan for you should include:

A clear monthly income plan after retirement.

A corpus that can grow and protect.

A rising income system that matches inflation.

A separate daughter’s future fund.

A health cover plan for your family.

A tax-efficient withdrawal plan.

A market cycle plan to protect you in tough times.

This holistic approach keeps your family strong for decades.

» What You Should Build by Retirement Year

Your aim should be to reach a strong multi-crore range in investments before retirement. You already hold a large amount. You will add more in the next 3 to 5 years through SIP, stock growth, bond maturity, and disciplined saving.

Once you reach your target range, you can start the shifting process:

Move a part to stable assets.

Keep a part in long-term growth assets.

Create a monthly income strategy.

Keep a reserve bucket.

Keep a child future bucket.

Keep a long-term growth bucket.

This structure protects you in all market conditions.

» Final Insights

Your financial journey is already strong. You have a good income. You have saved well. You have multiple asset types. You have a clear timeline. And you have clear goals. This foundation is solid.

In the next 3 to 5 years, your focus should be on growing your combined corpus to a strong multi-crore range, keeping a separate fund for your daughter, reducing risk in unplanned assets, and building a stable long-term structure.

With the present path and a disciplined structure, you can retire peacefully and support your family with confidence for many decades.

Best Regards,

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

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

...Read more

Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2499 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Money
Hello my name is saket, I monthly salary is 43k and my saving is zero. My Rent is 15 k and 10 k i send to my parents. How can i save money and investments.
Ans: 1. Your Current Monthly Numbers

Salary: Rs 43,000

Rent: Rs 15,000

Support to parents: Rs 10,000

Left with: Rs 18,000 for food, travel, bills, and savings

You have very little room, but saving is still possible if done smartly.

2. First Step: Build a Small Emergency Buffer

You must build Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 emergency money.
This protects you from taking loans for small issues.

How to build it:

Save Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 every month in a simple bank savings account

Do this for the next few months

Don’t touch it unless truly needed

3. Create a Mini Budget (Very Simple One)

Try this split from the remaining Rs 18,000:

Daily living (food + transport): Rs 10,000 – 11,000

Personal expenses (phone, internet, basics): Rs 3,000 – 4,000

Savings + investments: Rs 3,000 – 5,000

If this feels difficult, reduce food/transport costs by small adjustments.

4. Where to Invest Once You Have Emergency Money

(For minors: This is general education. For actual investing, get guidance from a trusted adult or family member.)

After you build emergency money, start small monthly investing.

You can begin with:

Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 SIP in a simple, diversified equity fund

Increase the SIP whenever salary increases or expenses reduce

Avoid complicated products.
Keep it simple.
Focus on consistency.

5. Easy Practical Ways to Increase Saving

These small moves help a lot:

Avoid food delivery

Use public transport as much as possible

Reduce subscriptions you don’t use

Fix a daily expense limit

Keep a separate bank account only for savings

Even Rs 200 saved daily = Rs 6,000 monthly.

6. Increase Income Slowly

Try small income boosters:

Weekend tutoring

Freelancing

Part-time projects

Selling old gadgets

Learning new skills for future salary growth

Even Rs 3,000 extra income changes your savings life.

7. Build the Habit First

The amount doesn’t matter in the beginning.
The habit matters more.

Even saving Rs 500 every month is better than zero.
Once salary grows, you will already know how to save.

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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x