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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 12, 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 12, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

My father is around 55 he's not investing in sip but lately I've pushed him to but I need to know by his time of retirement he won't be able to save more with sip any suggestions for which kind of sector should he invest more?

Ans: Given your father's age and proximity to retirement, it's crucial to prioritize investments that offer stability and potential for steady growth with lower risk. Here are some suggestions:

Diversified Equity Funds: Opt for diversified equity mutual funds that invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. These funds offer exposure to different sectors and can help mitigate risks associated with investing in a single sector.

Large Cap Funds: Consider allocating a significant portion of investments to large-cap funds, which invest in well-established companies with a track record of stable performance. These companies are generally less volatile and more resilient to market fluctuations.

Balanced Funds: Balanced funds, also known as hybrid funds, invest in both equities and debt instruments. They offer a balanced mix of growth potential from equities and stability from debt, making them suitable for conservative investors nearing retirement.

Debt Funds: Allocate a portion of investments to debt funds, which primarily invest in fixed-income securities like government bonds, corporate bonds, and treasury bills. Debt funds offer relatively stable returns and can provide regular income through interest payments.

Dividend-Yielding Stocks: Consider investing in dividend-yielding stocks of companies with a strong track record of dividend payments. Dividends can provide a steady stream of income, especially during retirement.

Consult a Financial Advisor: It's essential to consult a financial advisor who can assess your father's financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment goals to provide personalized advice. A professional advisor can help create a well-rounded investment portfolio tailored to his needs and objectives.

By diversifying across different asset classes and sectors, your father can mitigate risk and potentially enhance returns while safeguarding his retirement savings.
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  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
Hi Mr. Ramalingam. I am 70 years old. So far no investments in Mutual Funds. All Investment in FD's. Now thinking of investing in SIP for about Rs. 25k per month. I have Family income of 1.50 lakhs from FD's monthly.Family expenses being looked after by my son. Please suggest SIP's n other Investment. Gopalakrishnan K
Ans: Considering your age and financial situation, it's commendable that you're looking to diversify your investments. For a conservative approach, you can allocate a portion of the 1.50 lakhs monthly income from FDs towards SIPs and other investment options.

SIPs: Start with balanced funds or debt-oriented hybrid funds that provide a mix of equity and debt exposure to manage risk. Allocate around 50% of the 25k SIP towards these funds.

Debt Funds: Invest the remaining 50% in short-term debt funds or corporate bond funds for stable returns and lower volatility.

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): Consider investing in SCSS, offering higher interest rates and tax benefits for individuals aged 60 and above.

Fixed Income Options: Explore Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) or Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) for regular income and safety.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage to manage medical expenses and safeguard your financial well-being.

It's essential to consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to create a personalized investment plan tailored to your needs, risk tolerance, and financial goals. They can guide you on asset allocation, tax-efficient strategies, and retirement planning to secure your financial future.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 25, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I am 24 years old and I want to start investing in SIPs. I want to retire by the age of 40. Considering that I had budget of 15k which I can push in every month into SIPs and I can increase the amount by 10% every year, which funds would be appropriate to achieve my goal?
Ans: Starting early and having a clear goal like retiring by the age of 40 is a great ambition! Let's tailor an SIP investment plan to help you achieve this objective.

With a budget of 15,000 rupees per month for SIPs, you're off to a strong start. By increasing this amount by 10% each year, you're leveraging the power of compounding to maximize your returns over time.

Considering your goal of early retirement, it's important to prioritize funds with a higher growth potential while also managing risk. Since you're not keen on index funds, let's focus on actively managed funds recommended by a Certified Financial Planner.

Look for equity mutual funds with a proven track record of delivering consistent returns over the long term. These funds typically invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks across various sectors, which helps spread risk.

Given your long investment horizon, you can afford to take on a slightly higher level of risk. Consider allocating a significant portion of your SIP investments to mid-cap and small-cap funds, which have the potential to generate higher returns over time.

Additionally, it's essential to maintain a balanced portfolio by including some large-cap funds for stability and downside protection during market downturns.

Regularly review your investment portfolio and make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards your retirement goal. As your income grows over time, consider increasing your SIP contributions to accelerate your wealth accumulation.

Remember, achieving early retirement requires discipline, patience, and a well-thought-out investment strategy. Stay focused on your long-term objectives, and you'll be well on your way to financial independence by the age of 40.

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 03, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I am 43 years old.i want to start investing in SIPs. I plan to put Rs50k every month for a period of around 17 years till retirement. Kindly advise what SIPs should i choose at start to get a 14-15% growth with medium risk?
Ans: Congratulations on taking the proactive step towards securing your financial future through systematic investment planning. Let's craft a strategic SIP portfolio tailored to your goal of achieving 14-15% growth with medium risk over a 17-year investment horizon:

Understanding Your Financial Goals
Before diving into investment recommendations, it's crucial to understand your financial aspirations, risk tolerance, and time horizon. By aligning your investments with your goals, we can design a portfolio that maximizes growth potential while managing risk effectively.

Asset Allocation Strategy
To achieve your target growth with medium risk, we'll adopt a balanced asset allocation approach, combining equity and debt instruments. Equity funds offer growth potential, while debt funds provide stability and income generation.

Equity SIPs (70% Allocation):
Large Cap Funds (30%): Invest in large-cap funds for stability and steady growth potential. These funds focus on well-established companies with a track record of performance and market leadership.

Multi Cap Funds (40%): Allocate a significant portion to multi-cap funds, offering diversification across market capitalizations. These funds have the flexibility to invest in companies across sectors and market segments, enhancing growth potential.

Debt SIPs (30% Allocation):
Short Duration Funds (15%): Park a portion of your SIP investments in short-duration funds for stability and income generation. These funds invest in debt securities with a maturity period of 1-3 years, providing relatively stable returns.

Dynamic Bond Funds (15%): Opt for dynamic bond funds to capitalize on interest rate movements while managing risk effectively. These funds dynamically adjust their portfolio duration based on interest rate outlook, maximizing returns in different market conditions.

Considerations:
Risk Management: While targeting higher growth, it's essential to balance risk by diversifying across asset classes and fund categories. Regularly review your portfolio's performance and rebalance if necessary to maintain the desired asset allocation.

Long-term Perspective: Stay committed to your investment plan and maintain a long-term horizon. SIPs thrive on consistency and discipline, allowing you to benefit from the power of compounding over time.

Professional Guidance:
Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to validate your investment strategy and ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. A CFP can provide personalized recommendations and help you navigate market uncertainties effectively.

Conclusion:
By adopting a strategic SIP investment plan with a balanced asset allocation between equity and debt funds, you can potentially achieve your target growth of 14-15% with medium risk over a 17-year horizon. Stay focused on your financial goals, review your portfolio periodically, and seek professional guidance when needed to optimize your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 10, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I got a job in Dubai and salary is 3.3 Lacs per month. After EMIs and monthly expenses i have net savings of 1 Lac. As NRI Can you please suggest some SIP and how and how much should i diversify like MF, Bonds, Gold, ETFs, etc. Thank you.
Ans: Congratulations on your new job opportunity in Dubai! It's great to hear that you're planning ahead for your financial future as an NRI. Let's discuss some strategies to make the most of your net savings of 1 lac per month through systematic investment plans (SIPs) and diversification across various asset classes.

Understanding SIPs and Diversification
SIPs offer a disciplined approach to investing in mutual funds, allowing you to invest a fixed amount regularly. Diversification across different asset classes helps spread risk and maximize returns over the long term.

Mutual Funds: A Core Investment Option
Considering your monthly savings capacity, allocating a portion of your savings to mutual funds can be a prudent choice. Opt for a mix of equity and debt funds based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Equity Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth
Equity mutual funds have the potential to deliver higher returns over the long term but come with higher volatility. Invest in diversified equity funds or thematic funds aligned with your investment goals and risk appetite.

Debt Mutual Funds for Stability
Debt mutual funds provide stability and regular income by investing in fixed-income securities such as bonds and treasury bills. Allocate a portion of your portfolio to debt funds to balance out the risk from equity investments.

Gold as a Hedge Against Market Volatility
Including gold in your investment portfolio can act as a hedge against market volatility and inflation. Consider investing in gold mutual funds or gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to gain exposure to this precious metal.

International Funds for Geographic Diversification
As an NRI working in Dubai, you can benefit from geographic diversification by investing in international mutual funds. Look for funds that provide exposure to global markets and sectors outside of India.

Regular Review and Adjustment
Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Adjust your asset allocation as needed based on changing market conditions and life circumstances.

Seeking Professional Advice
Given the complexity of managing investments across different asset classes, consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who has experience working with NRIs. A CFP can provide personalized advice tailored to your financial objectives and help you navigate the intricacies of international investing.

Conclusion
By diversifying your investments through SIPs across mutual funds, bonds, gold, and international funds, you can build a robust investment portfolio that aims to generate wealth over the long term while managing risk effectively. Remember to review your investments regularly and seek professional guidance when needed to make informed decisions.

Best Regards,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
HELLO SIR, I AM 37 YEARS OLD AND OWNS A PROPERTY OF WORTH 90 LAKHS RIGHT NOW BOUGHT 8 YEARS BACK FOR 60 LAKHS. MY EMI IS AROUND 43K PER MONTH FOR ANOTHER 20 YEARS. ME AND MY WIFE EARNS AROUND 110000 PER MONTH. MONTHLY EXPENSE IS AROUND 35K. I HAVE 1 KID. HAVE I DONE RIGHT INVESTMENT OR IS THERE ANY OTHER WAY AROUND.
Ans: It sounds like you've been diligently managing your finances and investing in property, which is a significant accomplishment. Let's take a closer look at your situation and explore potential strategies to optimize your financial position.

Assessing Your Current Investment: Property Ownership
Owning a property valued at 90 lakhs, which you purchased eight years ago for 60 lakhs, indicates a healthy appreciation in value over time. Property can be a valuable asset that offers potential long-term growth and stability.

Evaluating Financial Commitments: Mortgage and Monthly Expenses
With an EMI of 43k per month for another 20 years, it's essential to ensure that this obligation fits comfortably within your budget. Considering your combined monthly income of 1,10,000 and expenses of 35k, it seems like you're managing your finances responsibly.

Considering Future Financial Goals
As a family with one child, planning for the future is crucial. It's commendable that you're proactively assessing your investment decisions to ensure financial security and growth.

Exploring Alternative Investment Opportunities
While property investment can be lucrative, diversifying your portfolio with other assets may provide additional benefits. Consider exploring investment options such as mutual funds, stocks, or retirement accounts to supplement your existing holdings.

Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner
Given your financial goals and current assets, consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide valuable insights and personalized recommendations. A CFP can help you assess your risk tolerance, identify investment opportunities, and create a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your needs.

Conclusion
Overall, your investment in property has proven to be a wise decision, considering the appreciation in value over time. However, exploring alternative investment avenues and seeking professional financial advice can further enhance your financial well-being and help you achieve your long-term goals.

Best Regards,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2317 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 16, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Firstly, thanks for patiently answering everyone's questions ????. Can you please suggest a suggest a MF which i wznt to invest in for next 10 years for my kids higher education. I see lot of children related mutual funds but unable to decide on one. I am ok to take high risk since ny inv would be for more than ten years.
Ans: Investing for your child's education is a thoughtful decision that requires careful consideration. I appreciate your dedication to securing their future. Let's delve into selecting the right mutual fund for this purpose.

Understanding Your Investment Horizon and Risk Appetite
Investing for your child's education over a ten-year period is a commendable strategy. Since you're comfortable with high risk, you have the potential for higher returns over the long term.

Evaluating Mutual Fund Options
When considering mutual funds for your child's education, it's essential to focus on funds with a proven track record of long-term growth. Look for funds managed by experienced professionals with a history of delivering consistent returns.

Active vs. Passive Management: Making the Right Choice
While index funds offer low fees and broad market exposure, they may not outperform actively managed funds, especially during volatile market conditions. Actively managed funds, overseen by skilled fund managers, have the flexibility to adapt to market changes and potentially outperform the market indices.

Emphasizing the Benefits of Active Management
Actively managed funds offer the advantage of professional oversight, where fund managers actively research and select investments to maximize returns and mitigate risks. This approach can be particularly beneficial in volatile markets, helping to navigate uncertainties and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds and the Benefits of Regular Funds through a Certified Financial Planner
Direct investing requires significant time and expertise to research, select, and monitor investments effectively. By working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), you gain access to professional guidance and personalized investment strategies tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance. Through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a CFP credential, you can benefit from ongoing support and portfolio reviews, ensuring your investments remain aligned with your objectives.

Making an Informed Decision
Consider mutual funds with a focus on sectors or themes aligned with your child's educational aspirations. Diversification is key to managing risk, so opt for funds with a well-balanced portfolio across various asset classes.

Conclusion
Investing in mutual funds for your child's higher education requires a thoughtful approach that considers your investment horizon, risk tolerance, and the expertise of fund managers. By leveraging the benefits of active management and seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner, you can make informed decisions that lay the foundation for your child's bright future.

Best Regards,

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

...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