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

Roopam Asthana  | Answer  |Ask -

Answered on Aug 03, 2021

Abdul Question by Abdul on Aug 03, 2021Hindi
Listen
Money

I got a call from my bank AXIS to get Medical Insurance. Axis bank has tied with TATA AIG insurance they are providing low premium for the policy. They said this premium amount will be till my age 55. In this period i have to keep bank transactions with Axis bank. If not you can withdraw from policy or you can transfer the policy to TATA AIG. If i take the policy, what will happen to policy seniority? Can I take direct policy with the insurance company? I am confused help me.

Ans: It is advisable to take medical insurance from the insurance company directly as it offers lifelong renewal without any conditions relating to your banking relationship. It means once you have taken the policy, insurance company can’t deny the renewal unless there is any fraud or non-disclosure of relevant information.

A lifetime renewal surety gives an insurance shield & worry-free life against financial burden of medical expenses. However, you need to compare the covers provided and the premium charged before making any decision. To enjoy continuity benefits on applicable waiting periods in your bank provided health insurance policy, you have an option to port your policy directly with the insurance company if you wish to withdraw from the policy offered via your bank tie-up.

For more details you can get in touch with insurance company.

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  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
I am single and retired with no family or loan commitments. with my enough funds in dividend funds for my routine monthly expenses, I have taken a Health Insurance for Rs.10 lacs with Royal Sundaram and life insurance term plan for Rs.50 lacs and Traditional insurance plan from LIC for Rs. 25 lacs on various named policies out of which except yearly premium of Rs.50,000 all policy payment terms were over. (policies like Jeevan Tarang, Jeevan Amrut etc) To cover this Rs.50000 insurance premium, I am getting survival benefit from Jeevan Tarang policy every year; only the date will differ which I could manage with my credit card payment. Can you please advise me whether the health insurance cover is okay and Life cover is okay; or should I take extra cover. Though I do not require to leave a legacy, I may also surrender the policy, in case of need. please advise
Ans: Financial Overview
Current Status

You are single and retired.

No family or loan commitments.

Insurance Policies

Health insurance: Rs. 10 lakhs with Royal Sundaram.

Life insurance term plan: Rs. 50 lakhs.

Traditional insurance plans from LIC: Rs. 25 lakhs.

Annual insurance premium: Rs. 50,000.

Appreciating Your Efforts
You have a well-structured plan.

Health and life insurance cover your needs.

Insurance Review
Health Insurance

Your health insurance cover is Rs. 10 lakhs.

Consider increasing it to Rs. 20 lakhs.

This ensures better protection against rising medical costs.

Life Insurance

Your life cover is Rs. 50 lakhs.

Since you have no family commitments, this is sufficient.

Traditional Insurance Plans
Jeevan Tarang and Jeevan Amrut

These plans provide survival benefits.

Use these benefits to pay your annual premium.

Surrender Option

Consider surrendering these policies if needed.

The surrender value can be reinvested in mutual funds.

Investment Strategy
Mutual Funds

Actively managed funds can offer higher returns.

Consider SIPs in large-cap and balanced funds.

PPF and NPS

Continue with PPF and NPS investments.

They offer safety and tax benefits.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Lower Returns

Index funds mimic the market.

They often yield lower returns compared to actively managed funds.

Lack of Flexibility

Index funds have less flexibility.

Actively managed funds adapt to market conditions.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Guidance

Direct funds lack professional advice.

Regular funds provide support through MFDs with CFP credentials.

Higher Risk

Direct funds can be riskier.

Professional guidance helps mitigate risks.

Emergency Fund
Maintain Liquidity

Keep an emergency fund.

Ensure it's equivalent to 6-12 months of expenses.

Liquid Mutual Funds

Consider liquid mutual funds for this purpose.

They offer better returns than savings accounts.

Action Plan
Increase Health Cover

Increase your health insurance to Rs. 20 lakhs.

Review Traditional Policies

Consider surrendering LIC policies.

Reinvest the proceeds in mutual funds.

Continue SIPs

Increase SIP contributions.

Focus on large-cap and balanced funds.

Maintain Emergency Fund

Keep a sufficient emergency fund.

Use liquid mutual funds for better returns.

Final Insights
Your current insurance and investment strategy is commendable.

Consider increasing your health cover for better protection.

Reevaluate traditional policies and focus on mutual funds.

Maintain an emergency fund for financial stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 28, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 17, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
My father had an home loan in tata capital of15 lakh with tata aig insurance of total premium 2 lakh due to medical issue (critical illness) insurance had claimed And outstanding amount transfer to tata capital of 15 lakh Now what ? my father had to pay the outstanding of insurance amount also If an person claim an insurance he need to pay the insurance outstanding??
Ans: Your father had a home loan of Rs. 15 lakh with Tata Capital. He also had insurance from Tata AIG, with a total premium of Rs. 2 lakh. Unfortunately, due to a critical illness, your father had to claim the insurance. The outstanding loan amount of Rs. 15 lakh was transferred to Tata Capital, thanks to the insurance claim.

Clarifying the Insurance Claim Process
When your father claimed the insurance, the outstanding loan amount was settled by the insurance company. This means that the insurance policy covered the loan, and your father is no longer liable to pay the Rs. 15 lakh loan to Tata Capital. This is one of the primary benefits of having a loan protection insurance policy.

Important Points to Note:

The insurance company paid the outstanding home loan amount directly to Tata Capital.
This settlement clears the debt, and Tata Capital should close the loan account.
Understanding the Outstanding Insurance Premium
Now, the question arises about the Rs. 2 lakh insurance premium. It's important to understand that the premium amount is what your father paid for the insurance coverage. This premium is typically paid upfront or in installments over time.

Here’s what you need to know:

If the premium was already paid, there is no further payment required.
If there were any unpaid installments of the premium, the insurance policy might have detailed conditions.
Responsibility for Outstanding Premium Payments
If your father had not completed the premium payments, the insurance company might have a clause that requires the completion of these payments. However, in most cases, once the insurance claim is settled, no further payments are required.

Key Points to Consider:

Check the insurance policy documents to understand if there are any remaining premium payments.
If the policy was paid in full, no further action is needed.
Action Steps to Take
To ensure everything is in order, follow these steps:

1. Review the Loan Account:
Confirm with Tata Capital that the home loan is fully settled and that there is no outstanding amount.

2. Check the Insurance Policy:
Review the insurance policy documents from Tata AIG. Look for any clauses related to outstanding premium payments after a claim is settled.

3. Communicate with Tata AIG:
If there is any confusion, contact Tata AIG customer service. Ask for clarification regarding any outstanding premium payments.

4. Document Everything:
Ensure you keep a record of all communications and confirmations from Tata Capital and Tata AIG.

Final Insights
Your father’s home loan should be fully settled by the insurance claim. There should be no outstanding loan payment. However, if there are any unpaid premium installments, it’s essential to clarify with Tata AIG. In most cases, no further payments are needed once the claim is settled.

This situation highlights the importance of understanding insurance policies and their terms. It's crucial to ensure all payments are completed and that the loan account is closed properly.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 07, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 07, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir,Iam 29 now .I bought a policy LIC new Jeevan Anand policy 715-21-21.Is it right decision?I have to pray premium about 5000 every month for 10lakhs.
Ans: You are 29 and paying Rs?5,000 monthly for a life cover of Rs?10?lakh under a LIC Jeevan Anand endowment plan. Let us evaluate this from all angles, and see how it fits into your larger financial picture.

1. What an Endowment Policy Means for You
It combines insurance and investment in a single package.

Premium allocation is split: part for life cover, part for savings.

Returns are modest compared to pure investments.

Charges and commission reduce your effective yield.

Insight: You are paying Rs?5,000 a month purely to get Rs?10?lakh cover and a small maturity benefit after long years.

2. Ideal Use of Life Insurance
Life cover should ideally be pure term insurance.

Term plans offer high cover at low premium.

Investment benefits should come from mutual funds or other high-return assets.

Insight: Pure insurance is better handled separately from wealth creation.

3. What Jeevan?Anand Offers vs Alternatives
Jeevan?Anand Features

Provides life cover + maturity benefit

Lock-in creates discipline

Bonus may add some value at maturity

Drawbacks Compared to Alternatives

Low returns – typically 4–5% net over term

High charges reduce benefits

Poor liquidity – difficult to exit early

Better options: equity mutual funds, PPF, or hybrid funds

4. Comparing Returns and Cost
A Rs?5,000 premium for 15–20 years may give modest benefit

In contrast:

Actively managed equity or hybrid mutual funds often yield 10–12% average returns

PPF offers ~7–8% with compounding and better tax efficiency

Insight: You may be leaving higher wealth gains on the table by staying in endowment plan.

5. Liquidity and Flexibility Considerations
Insurance savings plans are illiquid, with surrender losses early.

Pure investments like mutual funds offer easy access.

If goal ingredients or needs change, mutual funds allow freedom.

Insight: Flexibility matters over your investment horizon.

6. Should You Continue or Surrender?
Evaluating Continuation

If you are okay with low returns and long-term lock-in, you may continue.

But these funds could perform poorly compared to other vehicles.

Evaluating Surrender

Early surrender may involve penalties and partial loss.

However, future premiums can shift to better investments.

You must compare surrender value vs future expected returns elsewhere.

Do this comparison with your CFP for clarity. You need to ask:

What is current surrender value?

What rate of return can the premium earn elsewhere?

Based on honest growth estimates, do you gain more by staying or surrendering?

7. Transitioning to Better Alternatives
If you choose to redirect your premiums, here’s an approach:

Use a term insurance plan for Rs?50–100?lakh cover.

Invest the difference (approx Rs?5,000) into:

Actively managed equity mutual funds – growth over 10+ years

Or PPF if risk is unwanted and you want compounding benefit

Use regular plan (not direct) via an MFD with CFP credential
– Ensures fund review, rebalancing, and guidance
– Avoids trial-and-error and emotional investing

8. Integrating into Your Overall Plan
Here is how your new financial setup could look:

Component Allocation Rationale
Term Insurance Cover Replace LIC’s cover High coverage, low premium
Equity Mutual Fund SIP Rs?5,000 monthly To replace endowment returns
PPF / Debt Funds (optional) Additional safety For tax-friendly stability

If you also have other investment goals, consider allocating more to broader SIPs actively managed.

9. Why Actively Managed Funds Over Index or Direct
Index funds passively follow markets, including weak stocks

Direct (no-advice) plans feel cheaper but lack guidance

Actively managed regular plans include:

Expert-led security selection

Ability to move in/out of sectors based on conditions

Periodic performance review

Support through life changes or investment rebalancing

You benefit from fund handling and review support, especially as goals and market cycles shift.

10. Tax Efficiency and Withdrawal
Equity funds taxed: LTCG above Rs?1.25 lakhs at 12.5%; STCG at 20%.

PPF is tax-free on maturity.

Use appropriate funds for horizons and tax plans.

CFP guidance helps with tax-efficient switching and withdrawals.

11. How This Helps Your Long-Term Goals
Shifting to pure investments can boost corpus over time

Increased returns compound powerfully over 10–15 years

Term insurance ensures your family is protected

You get flexibility without locking up funds

The overall plan fits into a future where savings and protection are clearly separated

12. Next Practical Steps
Check surrender value of existing LIC plan

Compare with projected returns from MF or PPF

If it's better to exit, get help from CFP to reinvest intelligently

Adjust your SIP portfolio over time for goal alignment

Keep reviewing every year with CFP support to stay on track

Final Insights
The LIC endowment policy provides low growth with high lock-in.

A better structure separates risk cover from wealth creation.

Aim for strong returns via actively managed investments with regular reviews.

Term insurance + SIPs in equity/PFFP offers stronger, flexible financial build-up.

Make decisions based on returns, liquidity needs, and future goals.

Your premium can be put to much better use through strategic investments.
Consult your CFP for surrender analysis and structured redirection.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Money
Dear Sir, What is the best % of SWP one can think of from Portfolio value. I am retired now and have say 1 Cr as MF and Share portfolio. I want to go for 40000 SWP per month thereby making 4.8% as SWP. If this is good to have this for 15 yrs
Ans: Your question shows great care for your financial future. Many retirees ignore this step. You have already taken a wise move. You want steady income. You want safety. You want long life for your money. These are very important points. I truly appreciate your clarity.

» Understanding your present plan
Your idea is simple. You have Rs 1 crore. You want Rs 40000 each month. This means Rs 4.8 lakh each year. That is 4.8 percent of your money. This is not very high. This is not very low. It sits in the middle range. Many retirees try for 7 or 8 percent. That can put pressure on the portfolio. Your 4.8 percent is more reasonable. It supports discipline. It keeps stress low.

Your idea is for 15 years. That is a good time frame. It gives space for your funds to grow. It gives time for market cycles. It also gives time for inflation adjustments.

» Why withdrawal rate matters
Your SWP rate decides how long your money will last. A high rate can drain funds soon. A very low rate may not support your monthly needs. Your 4.8 percent sits well. It balances life needs and portfolio health.

When you draw money from a mixed portfolio, the growth side helps refill your withdrawn money. The stability side helps reduce fall during bad years. This mix helps the SWP stay steady.

» Why a proper structure is important
A SWP is not only a monthly withdrawal. It is a full system. The system needs planning. It needs regular reviews. It needs a clear asset split. It needs a cushion for weak market years.

If you set this structure well now, your SWP can stay safe. Your money can stretch for many years. You can keep peace of mind.

» The importance of a balanced mix
Your portfolio may hold equity funds, hybrid funds, and debt funds. A clear mix reduces risk. It gives smooth cash flow. Equity gives growth. Debt gives steady flow. Hybrid gives balance.

Because you want monthly income for 15 years, you need a balance that supports steady SWP. A pure equity plan can shake too much. A pure debt plan may not grow at a good pace. A balanced mix is ideal.

» Equity funds need careful use
Some investors put large money in equity for SWP. This can work in strong markets. This can fail in weak markets. Your SWP must survive both market moods. That is why pure equity for SWP is not safe.

Also, you should prefer actively managed funds over index funds for long SWP. Index funds follow the index blindly. They do not manage risk actively. They cannot adjust to market cycles. Actively managed funds have a professional fund manager. A skilled manager helps in limiting risk in low years. This helps protect principal in SWP years. This support is not present in index funds.

» Debt funds form the stabiliser
Debt funds bring peace to the portfolio. They help during bad market years. They help the SWP stay steady. Because debt funds follow market rates, they work as the anchor. For SWP, this anchor is very helpful.

If you use direct debt funds, you must remember that direct funds need more tracking. They need active reviews by you. Many retired investors find this hard. Regular plans taken through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill provide guidance. Regular plans also give handholding. This handholding helps avoid wrong exits.

» How to view your Rs 40000 monthly need
You may need some money for basic needs. You may need some money for health care. You may need some money for family support. You may need some money for personal comfort. Rs 40000 per month seems a balanced number.

It does not put too much pressure on the money. It is not a very heavy load. It fits well with a Rs 1 crore fund.

» Inflation needs attention
Inflation will rise. Costs will rise. Your need will rise. Your SWP should rise slowly over time. You cannot fix your SWP for 15 years at one number. That may reduce your buying power.

A small rise every two or three years will help you beat inflation. This rise must be slow. It must match your portfolio growth.

» Risk of sharp market falls
Sharp falls can disturb SWP. A sudden big drop in equity value can pull down your portfolio. This may cause you to withdraw when market is low. That is not good. To fix this, you need enough stability in your mix.

A proper allocation in debt funds and hybrid funds can reduce this issue. You will get smoother cash flow. You will not have to worry about market news every day.

» Role of emergency money
Please keep an emergency amount. Keep this aside. Do not include it in your SWP plan. You may need money for urgent health needs. You may need money for home needs. Emergency funds help you avoid sudden selling.

A good emergency fund gives peace. It protects your SWP from sudden shocks.

» Tax rules for withdrawals
Every SWP withdrawal may include some gains. Tax will apply based on the type of fund and the gain period. This tax can have impact on net flow. You must plan for this in your withdrawal design.

Equity fund rules:

Gains under one year are short-term. These are taxed at 20 percent.

Gains above one year are long-term. Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5 percent.

Debt fund rules:

Both short-term and long-term gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

This tax part should not scare you. A proper plan can reduce the tax burden. A planned SWP can help you manage gains carefully.

» Why a Certified Financial Planner helps
You may handle small things by yourself. But retirement planning is delicate. One wrong move can disturb the whole plan. A Certified Financial Planner gives a clear road map. He helps you set the best mix. He reviews the plan every year. He adjusts the plan for market and life events.

This guidance is very useful in SWP because SWP needs discipline.

» Why not consider real estate
Some retirees think of using real estate for income. But real estate needs heavy work. It needs tenant work. It needs repair work. It needs legal care. It gives lumpy income. It gives no steady flow. So it is not fit for SWP planning.

Your present goal is steady income. Real estate will not give this.

» Why not consider annuities
Annuities give fixed income. But they lock your money. They give low returns. They do not beat inflation well. They reduce flexibility. For these reasons, they are not ideal for your long-term income.

Your idea of SWP with balanced mix is better.

» Keeping your portfolio healthy for 15 years
To keep your portfolio safe for 15 years, you must follow some habits:

Review every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Adjust asset mix if needed.

Increase SWP amount slowly.

Reduce SWP for one or two years if markets fall very deep.

Protect your money from emotional moves.

Keep a two-year buffer in a low-risk fund.

Keep your growth part running for long.

These habits help your money last for the full 15-year horizon.

» Regular review helps you adapt
Markets will change. Your health may change. Your needs may change. A yearly review will help align your plan. It will help spot issues early. It will help guide the next year’s SWP.

Without reviews, even good plans can fail.

» Why a two-year cushion helps
A cushion fund is a simple idea. Keep two years of SWP in a low-risk debt fund. This money helps you draw income even in bad market years. You will not need to sell equity in weak phases. This protects your overall money. This makes your SWP more stable.

This cushion fund is an extra shield. It supports your 15-year income plan.

» Role of diversification
Your SWP works best when your portfolio is spread well. A spread can include:

Actively managed equity funds.

Hybrid funds.

Debt funds.

This spread reduces risk. It gives smoothness. It supports long-term income.

Avoid using too many funds. Keep it simple. A small number of quality funds is better.

» How your 4.8 percent looks in practice
A 4.8 percent withdrawal rate is comfortable for a 15-year horizon. If you follow discipline, your money will not face heavy pressure. If your portfolio grows at a steady pace, your principal will not erode fast. Even if growth shifts between years, the mixed structure will protect you.

Your plan is workable. It is sensible. It is future-friendly.

» Mistakes to avoid
Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

Do not chase high-return funds.

Do not raise SWP sharply in one year.

Do not keep too much money in equity.

Do not stop reviews.

Do not shift funds often without reason.

Do not look at direct plans if you prefer guidance.

These mistakes can disturb your portfolio health. Your SWP may suffer.

» Why not use direct funds if you need support
Direct plans give lower cost. But they give no guidance. Retired investors often need guidance. They need reviews. They need discipline. A regular plan through a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP skill gives support. It prevents panic reactions. This support is valuable in low market years.

» Healthy mindset for SWP
Try to see your SWP as a long journey. It needs calm mind. It needs steady steps. It needs slow corrections. It needs patience. If you stay steady, your SWP will stay healthy. You will enjoy peace.

» Practical steps you can start now
You may start with these steps:

Set clear needs for each year.

Fix a proper asset split.

Create a cushion fund for two years.

Start SWP from a low-risk fund or hybrid fund.

Keep equity for growth.

Add small hikes in SWP every few years.

This system supports long-term income.

» How your plan supports a joyful retired life
Your plan helps you live with comfort. It gives predictable cash flow. It gives you freedom from worry. It gives you clarity. You can focus on health, family, and peace. You do not need to watch markets each day.

Your retirement life becomes balanced.

» Final Insights
Your idea of taking Rs 40000 per month from a Rs 1 crore portfolio at 4.8 percent is workable. It fits well for a 15-year horizon. It supports your income. It protects your money if you set a balanced mix. You must follow steady reviews. You must keep a small cushion. You must avoid risky moves.

With these practices, your SWP plan can stay healthy for many years. Your future can stay peaceful and steady. You have already taken the right first step. Your clarity gives your plan strong power.

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

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

...Read more

Dr Nagarajan J S K

Dr Nagarajan J S K   |2567 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 17, 2025Hindi
Career
Is it worthwhile being an mbbs only doctor in India or is pg necessary as somebody who cannot toil 24-36 hours (as is the case with hospital duties) and is not well adequate for working under somebody and then do you still have to study after mbbs to level up or will you be contented with just mbbs. Pls don't answer objectively i really need to see the real picture
Ans: Hi Dr.
Recently, I've seen many different comments on social media suggesting that finding a job after completing an MBBS is very difficult, with some graduates even working as delivery boys.

I believe MBBS is one of the few courses that allows for immediate entrepreneurship after graduation, while other fields often require additional support to start a business. Many medical shop owners are willing to provide a small space for consultations, which is not typically an option for graduates in other disciplines.

If you are financially constrained, it may be wise to stop after completing your MBBS degree for the time being. However, pursuing a postgraduate degree (PG) significantly increases your opportunities, including potential roles in the pharmaceutical industry. Without a PG, your options may be limited. It's akin to the difference between a normal grocery store and a supermarket: completing a PG can lead to positions in corporate medical hospitals.

Initially, you might consider working at a smaller practice or in the government sector before pursuing higher education. While having an MBBS degree allows you to offer consultations, having a PG provides you with more credibility and knowledge. Understand your strengths and weaknesses, and don’t worry about others—proceed based on your own abilities and circumstances.
BEST WISHES.

...Read more

Dr Nagarajan J S K

Dr Nagarajan J S K   |2567 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 15, 2025Hindi
Career
I have passed 12th from Maharashtra state board in 2023 ( as regular candidate ) and also gave improvement exam in Feb 2024 but I am not satisfied with my result can I give 12th board exam again from Maharashtra board as a private candidate 17 no. Form ??? I am already 12th passed so Is it illegal to appear from 17 no. Form ?
Ans: Hi,
Hi, what are your future plans? Please share so I can suggest a solution for you.
best regards

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10848 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 15, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Experts, Help me plan for my family, including how to take services of a certified financial planner and their fee structure/charges. I am 35 years old, married with 2 daughters. Want to plan for their studies and self and spouse's retirement, assuming post retirement life of 15-20 years at then inflation rate. - I have 2 apartments, one paid for, one with 21L loan. Both 3bhk, and in Bangalore. - I have mutual funds portfolio of 36L (across multiple direct funds - 15% debt, mostly equity) - 5L in stocks, in core sectors (metal, industries etc) - approx 40L in PPF - SSY for elder kid, not started for younger one, but not very regular with contributions due to other liabilities - 65L in employer company stocks (I might switch employers but will leave the corpus to grow) - Health insurance.
Ans: You already did many right things at a young age. Your savings show clear care for your family. Your goals also show deep clarity. I appreciate your intent to build a strong long-term plan. You already created a very good base. Now you only need one clear roadmap that links every asset and goal.

Your Present Strengths
Your savings show smart thinking.
Your mix of assets is already wide.
You built strong discipline at age 35.
You planned for both kids.
You hold equity, debt, PPF, SSY, and employer stock.
You also hold two apartments.
You already use insurance.
These things give you very strong base power.
This base helps you plan the next 25 to 40 years.
This base also helps control risk in your later years.
Many people start late.
You are far ahead of them.

» Your Key Family Goals
Your main goals are clear.
You aim for kids’ education.
You aim for retirement.
Clarity like this helps a lot.
Your goals are long term.
Long term goals need stable plans.
Stable plans grow well with time.
You also want to manage liabilities.
This is also important.
Good planning here gives peace.
Your present age offers long compounding time.

» Understanding Your Current Assets
Let me read your assets with a calm view.

– You have two apartments. One is debt-free. One has Rs 21 lakh loan.
– You have Rs 36 lakh in mutual funds. You hold direct plans.
– You have Rs 5 lakh in stocks.
– You have Rs 40 lakh in PPF.
– You have SSY for elder daughter.
– You have employer RSU holding of around Rs 65 lakh.
– You have health insurance.

Your position is strong but not balanced.
Your money is not fully aligned with your goals yet.
A structured plan from now will bring strong clarity.

» Why Direct Mutual Funds May Not Suit Long-Term Family Goals
You hold direct mutual funds now.
Direct funds look cheaper.
But they need deep monitoring.
They need review of risk shifts.
They need review of performance cycles.
They also need sharp discipline during bad years.
Many investors lack time for such review.
Direct funds also offer no handholding.
You face all stress alone.
You also manage fund moves alone.
Wrong timing moves hurt long-term wealth.
Direct funds many times lead to wrong exits.
Direct funds can also lead to poor rebalancing.
These issues reduce your long-term wealth.

Regular funds through an MFD with CFP credential help reduce these risks.
You get structured reviews.
You get expert rebalancing.
You get behavioural guidance.
You get allocation support.
You get peace.
This support reduces mistakes.
Fewer mistakes mean more wealth for your family.

» Why Actively Managed Funds May Suit You Better
Your equity plan is long term.
Actively managed funds can adjust to market cycles.
They move between sectors.
They help lower downside risk in tough phases.
They seek better alpha.
Index funds cannot do this.
Index funds stay fixed.
Index funds buy both good and weak companies.
Index funds hold stressed sectors also.
Index funds give no flexibility.
Index funds also see high concentration risk in some indices.
Your goals need more smart risk control.
Actively managed funds help you do that.
This can improve long-term results.

» Reading Your Liabilities
Your only major loan is Rs 21 lakh.
This is not high for your income stage.
The key part is to keep EMI smooth.
Avoid pushing too fast.
Do not break your investment flow.
A balanced EMI and SIP mix works best.

» Kids’ Education Planning
You have two daughters.
Their costs rise with inflation.
This means you need long-term systematic plan.
These actions help:

– Keep SSY for elder daughter.
– Start one systematic plan for younger daughter also.
– Use mix of equity and debt for both.
– Use PPF partly for long-term support.
– Keep regular contributions small but steady.

This steady effort matters more than big jumps.
Kids’ education goals need at least 10 to 15 years.
So use mostly equity for growth.
Use a small part in debt for stability.

» Retirement Planning Strategy for You and Your Spouse
You have long time left to retirement.
This time gives power to equity allocation.
You also have PPF.
PPF adds safety.
Your retirement plan must cover 15 to 20 years of post-retirement life.
This needs inflation-adjusted planning.

Use these steps:

– Keep part of portfolio in actively managed equity funds.
– Keep debt for safety, not for returns.
– Continue PPF to add more secure base.
– Reduce exposure to employer stock slowly.
– Do not depend on employer stock for retirement.
– Build a separate retirement portfolio with strong diversification.

Retirement must not depend on one risky asset.
Retirement must not depend only on equity.
Retirement must not depend only on debt.
Use mix.
Use rebalancing.
Use review.

» Understanding Risk in Employer Stock Holding
You hold Rs 65 lakh in employer stock.
This is a big part of your wealth.
This creates concentration risk.
If the company faces issues, your wealth can fall.
You may switch jobs also.
So reduce this risk slowly.
Do not sell all at once.
Sell in small parts.
Shift the money to diversified funds.
This makes your long-term goals more safe.

» Your Real Estate Position
You already have two apartments.
Both are in Bangalore.
You do not need more property.
Real estate also locks money.
You already have enough exposure.
Future investments should not go into real estate.

» Building a Strong Asset Allocation Framework
A clear asset allocation gives you more clarity.
It helps your goals stay on track.
It also controls risk well.

Use these long-term steps:

– Give equity more share for growth.
– Give debt enough share for stability.
– Keep PPF as long-term safety tool.
– Keep kids’ education with separate planned buckets.
– Do not mix retirement and education funds.

Each goal gets its own plan.
This brings more order to your money.

» Systematic Investing for Smooth Growth
SIPs help you a lot.
You can use them to build each goal.
Use equity SIPs for long-term goals.
Use debt SIPs for stability.
Use slow and steady flow.
Try not to stop SIPs during market falls.
Falls help you buy cheap units.
Cheap units mean better long-term returns.

» Building Emergency and Protection Layers
Emergency fund is key.
Keep at least six months of expenses in safe place.
This protects your SIPs.
This also protects your long-term goals.
You already have health insurance.
Keep it updated.
Health costs can disrupt your plans.
Insurance helps avoid that.

» 360 Degree View of Your Full Plan
Your whole plan must work like one system.
Each goal must connect to proper assets.
Your loans must fit your cash flow.
Your savings must match your risk ability.
Your insurance must protect your savings.
Your kids’ plan must not disturb retirement.
Your retirement plan must not disturb kids’ plan.
Your portfolio must stay calibrated.
Your funds must stay reviewed.
Your behaviour must stay calm.
This is the real 360 degree planning.

A Certified Financial Planner helps align all of these.
This gives you one clear map for all goals.

» How to Work With a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner studies your goals.
The planner studies cash flow.
The planner reads your behaviour pattern.
The planner checks your risk level.
The planner designs asset allocation.
The planner selects right categories for you.
The planner reviews your plan each year.
The planner adjusts your portfolio when needed.
You get a complete service, not only fund selection.
You get a whole plan for your family.

» Why a Certified Financial Planner Adds Great Value
A planner helps avoid emotional mistakes.
Such mistakes reduce wealth.
A planner helps with rebalancing.
Rebalancing is key for safety and returns.
A planner handles asset mapping.
A planner keeps all goals aligned.
A planner helps you plan taxes.
A planner gives holistic guidance.
A planner gives discipline.
Discipline builds wealth.

A planner also tracks fund cycles.
A planner guides during market noise.
A planner keeps your plan steady.

This support helps your family’s long-term safety.

» Cash Flow Restructuring for Your Case
You have loan EMI.
You have investments.
You have kids’ expenses.
You need a clean cash flow map.
Use these steps:

– Fix monthly SIPs first.
– Keep EMI below safe limit.
– Keep emergency fund safe.
– Keep kids’ plan steady.
– Keep retirement SIP steady.
– Do not dip into long-term investments.

This pattern builds strong wealth.

» Insurance and Risk Protection
Health insurance is good.
But check if coverage is large enough.
Health costs grow each year.
A good health cover saves you from big shocks.

Also check life cover.
It must match income and goals.
Life cover must protect your family if something happens.
Do not use investment-linked policies.
Pure term cover is better.
It is simple.
It is clear.
It protects well.

» Tax Planning Across Assets
Use tax benefits from PPF.
Use tax benefits from SSY.
Use tax benefits from home loan.
Use long-term gains wisely when selling funds.

New tax rules apply:
Equity LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Equity STCG is taxed at 20%.
Debt funds are taxed as per your slab.

Plan sales with help of a Certified Financial Planner.
This helps keep taxes low.

» Finally
You already built a strong base.
You only need refined structure now.
Your goals are clear.
Your family needs long-term safety.
Your savings can meet those goals.
You need right alignment.
You need right fund mix.
You need expert review.
You need behavioural guidance.
These steps take you to peace and stability.

A Certified Financial Planner helps you bring all parts together.
This gives you a 360 degree family solution.
This gives you clarity for many years.
This gives your kids secure paths.
This gives you and your spouse a calm retired life.

You already have good strength.
With the right planning guidance, you can move even faster.

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