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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8913 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 05, 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
Ashokan Question by Ashokan on Aug 22, 2023Hindi
Listen
Money

I had invested in Nippon Small Cap fund a sum of Rs.75,000 as lumpsum ( in 5 different occasions) during the last one year. It has grown up to Rs 93,000 now. I want this to grow at least for 4 more years. As Nippon is not allowing now to invest in lumpsum, can I leave the amount as such and redeem later ? Or can I invest it in something else? This is needed only after 4 years. Thanks on advance for your valuable reply.

Ans: Leaving your investment in Nippon Small Cap Fund as it is and allowing it to grow for the next 4 years can be a viable option if you believe in the fund's long-term potential. However, it's crucial to regularly monitor the fund's performance and the overall market conditions during this period.

Alternatively, if you're looking for diversification or have concerns about the future performance of the fund, you could consider reallocating a portion of your investment to other mutual funds that align with your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Before making any decisions, it's advisable to consult with a financial advisor who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific financial situation and objectives. They can help you assess the options available and make informed decisions that suit your needs.
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  |8913 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
I have invested lumpsum during corrections in the following funds , please advise should I continue investing more in the same funds - HDFC BALANCED ADVANTAGE, ICICI EQUITY AND DEBT, ICICI INDIA OPPORTUNITIES, ICICI MNC , ICICI VALUE DISCOVERY, ICICI MULTI ASSET, NIPPON SMALLCAP, SBI CONTRA , ADITY BIRLA MULTI ASSET ALLOCATION , HDFC FLEXICAP. I have invested 100000 in each fund . I am 62 years old. Kindly advise. Thanks and regards
Ans: Investing in the Right Mix for Your Retirement

Your current investment strategy reflects a thoughtful approach. Diversifying across multiple funds and investing during market corrections is wise. As you are 62 years old, balancing growth with capital preservation is crucial. Let's assess your current investments and explore whether you should continue adding to them.

Assessing Your Current Investments

Your portfolio includes balanced, equity, multi-asset, small-cap, and contra funds. This diversity helps in spreading risk. Each type of fund serves different purposes and offers unique benefits.

Balanced Advantage and Equity-Debt Funds

Balanced advantage and equity-debt funds invest in both equity and debt instruments. They provide growth potential with reduced volatility. These funds are suitable for investors seeking stability along with capital appreciation. Given your age, having such funds in your portfolio is beneficial. They help in managing risk while still aiming for reasonable returns.

Opportunities and MNC Funds

Opportunities and MNC funds focus on specific themes or sectors. They can deliver high returns if the chosen theme performs well. However, they come with higher risk due to concentration. These funds are suitable for investors with a higher risk appetite. At 62, you might want to limit exposure to such funds to avoid excessive risk.

Value Discovery and Contra Funds

Value discovery and contra funds invest in undervalued stocks. They aim to generate high returns by identifying mispriced opportunities. These funds require patience as value investing can take time to yield results. Including these funds in your portfolio adds a contrarian element, which can enhance returns if the market favours these stocks.

Multi-Asset and Flexicap Funds

Multi-asset and flexicap funds offer diversification within a single fund. They invest across various asset classes and market capitalizations. These funds provide flexibility and adaptability to market conditions. They can balance risk and reward effectively. Such funds are particularly beneficial for investors seeking a balanced approach to growth and risk management.

Small-Cap Funds

Small-cap funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential. These funds can deliver substantial returns but come with higher volatility. They require a longer investment horizon to mitigate risks. At your age, it is important to carefully consider the proportion of small-cap funds in your portfolio to avoid excessive risk.

Evaluating the Need for Continued Investment

Considering your age, risk tolerance, and investment goals, here are some factors to evaluate whether to continue investing in the same funds:

Risk Tolerance and Time Horizon

Your risk tolerance decreases as you approach retirement. It is crucial to protect your capital while aiming for growth. Balanced advantage, equity-debt, and multi-asset funds provide a safer approach. Limiting exposure to high-risk funds like small-cap and sectoral funds can reduce volatility in your portfolio.

Diversification and Rebalancing

Your portfolio is already well-diversified. However, periodic rebalancing is essential to maintain the desired risk-reward ratio. Rebalancing involves adjusting your investments based on market performance. It ensures that your portfolio remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Income Generation Needs

At 62, generating a steady income might be a priority. Balanced advantage, equity-debt, and multi-asset funds can provide regular income through dividends and interest. Consider focusing more on these funds to ensure a steady income stream during retirement.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized advice based on your unique situation. They can help you evaluate your current investments and suggest adjustments. CFPs assist in creating a tailored investment strategy that aligns with your retirement goals and risk tolerance.

Considering Other Investment Options

While your current portfolio is diversified, consider adding funds that offer capital preservation and income generation. Here are some options:

Debt Funds

Debt funds invest in fixed-income securities like bonds and debentures. They provide stable returns with lower risk compared to equity funds. Including debt funds can enhance capital preservation and provide regular income. They are suitable for conservative investors nearing retirement.

Hybrid Funds

Hybrid funds invest in both equity and debt instruments. They offer a balanced approach to growth and income. These funds are less volatile and can provide steady returns. Adding hybrid funds can enhance stability in your portfolio.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)

A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly from your investments. It provides a steady income stream during retirement. Consider setting up an SWP from your balanced advantage or multi-asset funds to meet your income needs.

Conclusion

Your current investments reflect a thoughtful and diversified strategy. To ensure continued growth and capital preservation, focus on balanced advantage, equity-debt, and multi-asset funds. Limit exposure to high-risk funds and consider adding debt and hybrid funds for stability. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to maintain alignment with your goals. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance and help you achieve a secure and comfortable retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Hardik

Hardik Parikh  | Answer  |Ask -

Tax, Mutual Fund Expert - Answered on Apr 20, 2023

Listen
Money
I am having UTIRegular Saving Fund Direct Growth just above 5 lakhs. Yielding around 10.5%. Now I want to invest some more lumpsum money. Is it advisable to continue adding considering future of the find?
Ans: Hello Kameswara,

As your financial advisor, I appreciate that you're looking to invest more money and grow your wealth. UTI Regular Savings Fund Direct Growth has provided you with decent returns so far. However, before making any decision to invest further in this fund, it's crucial to consider a few factors.

Diversification: While the UTI Regular Savings Fund has been performing well, it's always a good idea to diversify your investments across different fund categories and asset classes. This will help spread the risk and potentially enhance returns in the long term.
Fund's past performance and future prospects: Although the fund has given a yield of around 10.5%, it's essential to evaluate the fund's past performance and compare it with its benchmark and peers. Also, consider the fund's investment strategy and portfolio holdings to understand its future potential.
Investment horizon and risk tolerance: Ensure that your investment horizon aligns with the fund's investment objectives. If you're looking for long-term capital appreciation, you may explore other options like equity funds or balanced funds. Additionally, assess your risk tolerance and choose funds accordingly.
To summarize, while it's tempting to continue investing in a fund that has provided good returns, it's crucial to evaluate your investment goals, risk tolerance, and diversification needs. I would recommend discussing your investment plan with a financial advisor who can provide personalized guidance based on your unique financial situation and goals.

Always happy to help.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8913 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Sir , I have deposited 20 lakhs in Fixed deposit. How can i invest in mutual fund lumpsum amount for better returns?
Ans: Effective Strategies for Investing a Lump Sum in Mutual Funds
Investing a lump sum like Rs. 20 lakhs into mutual funds can provide better returns compared to fixed deposits. However, managing risk and ensuring steady growth requires a strategic approach. One effective method is using a Systematic Transfer Plan (STP).

Understanding Systematic Transfer Plan (STP)
What is an STP?
Gradual Investment

An STP allows you to transfer a fixed amount from a debt fund to an equity fund periodically. This method reduces market timing risks and averages out the cost of investment.

Benefits of STP
Risk Management

STPs help manage market volatility by spreading investments over time, reducing the impact of market fluctuations.

Regular Investments

They ensure disciplined investing, taking advantage of market corrections and benefiting from rupee cost averaging.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using STP
Step 1: Choose a Debt Fund
Safe Parking

Start by investing your lump sum in a debt fund. Debt funds are less volatile and provide regular income, making them a safe place to park your money initially.

Step 2: Select an Equity Fund
Growth Potential

Choose an equity fund based on your risk tolerance and financial goals. Equity funds offer higher returns over the long term but come with higher risk.

Step 3: Determine the Transfer Amount
Consistency

Decide the amount to transfer from the debt fund to the equity fund periodically. Common intervals are monthly or quarterly, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Set Up the STP
Automated Transfers

Set up the STP with your mutual fund provider. Specify the transfer amount and interval, ensuring the process is automated and hassle-free.

Benefits of Using Debt Funds Initially
Capital Preservation
Minimize Risk

Starting with a debt fund helps preserve your capital while earning a steady return. It provides a cushion against market volatility during the initial phase of your investment.

Regular Income
Steady Returns

Debt funds offer regular income through interest payments, which can be reinvested or used for other financial needs.

Choosing the Right Equity Funds
Diversification
Spread Risk

Select equity funds that offer diversification across sectors and market capitalizations. This strategy spreads risk and enhances growth potential.

Fund Performance
Track Record

Evaluate the historical performance of the equity funds. Consistent returns over different market cycles indicate reliable funds.

Fund Manager Expertise
Professional Management

Consider funds managed by experienced professionals. Their expertise can significantly impact the fund's performance and your investment returns.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds
Professional Management
Expert Decisions

Actively managed funds benefit from professional fund managers who make informed decisions based on market research and conditions.

Potential for Higher Returns
Market Opportunities

Fund managers aim to outperform benchmarks, providing higher returns than passively managed funds like index funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Limited Growth
Market Replication

Index funds replicate market indices, limiting growth potential compared to actively managed funds, which can capitalize on market opportunities.

Lack of Flexibility
Fixed Portfolio

Index funds have a fixed portfolio and cannot adapt to changing market conditions, unlike actively managed funds.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Guidance
Navigating Complexity

Direct funds do not offer the expertise of a certified financial planner, making it challenging for less experienced investors to manage their investments effectively.

Time and Effort
Active Management Required

Direct funds require significant time and effort to manage, unlike regular funds managed by professionals.

Benefits of Regular Funds via MFD with CFP Credential
Expert Advice
Personalized Guidance

Investing through a CFP ensures personalized advice tailored to your financial goals, risk profile, and investment horizon.

Better Performance
Professional Oversight

Professionally managed regular funds often perform better due to the expertise of fund managers, providing higher returns and better risk management.

Holistic Planning
Comprehensive Approach

A CFP considers all aspects of your financial situation, helping you achieve your goals efficiently and effectively.

Building a Diversified Portfolio
Mix of Funds
Balance and Growth

A balanced portfolio includes a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds. This approach manages risk while optimizing returns.

Regular Review
Performance Monitoring

Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals. Make necessary adjustments based on performance and changing market conditions.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Disciplined Investing
Consistency

SIPs promote disciplined investing by allowing you to invest a fixed amount regularly, leveraging the power of compounding over time.

Flexibility
Adjustable Investments

SIPs are flexible, enabling you to increase or decrease your investment amounts based on your financial situation and goals.

Suggested Mutual Funds for Diversified Investment
Here are some categories of mutual funds to consider for a diversified investment portfolio:

Large-Cap Fund: Stability and steady growth from well-established companies.

Mid-Cap Fund: Potential for higher returns with moderate risk.

Small-Cap Fund: High growth potential with higher risk.

Aggressive Hybrid Fund: Balanced growth with a focus on equities.

Conservative Hybrid Fund: Stability with a focus on debt instruments.

Short-Term Debt Fund: Lower risk for short-term investments.

Long-Term Debt Fund: Better returns for long-term investments.

Multi-Cap Fund: Diversified across large, mid, and small-cap stocks.

Sectoral/Thematic Fund: Focus on specific sectors for higher returns.

International Fund: Exposure to global markets for additional diversification.

Conclusion
Investing Rs. 20 lakhs in mutual funds through an STP can provide better returns while managing risk. Start by parking your funds in a debt fund and gradually transferring to equity funds. This approach ensures disciplined investing and takes advantage of market opportunities.

Consult with a certified financial planner to receive personalized advice and build a diversified portfolio tailored to your financial goals. Regularly review your investments to stay on track and achieve optimal returns.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Upneet

Dr Upneet Kaur  |44 Answers  |Ask -

Marriage counsellor - Answered on Jun 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 05, 2025
Relationship
Hello gurus.. I have a friend who has been married for 10 years and with 2 kids one 8 yr old daughter and a two year old son. His wife whom he loved and trusted so much had cheated on him with one of her friends for almost 3 years which he came to know about last year. Though he could not digest that and thought of divorcing her but thinking about his children's future he changed his mind and told her to end all communication with him in order to save this marriage .She too had agreed . He hadn't told about this to anyone except me including her parents whom he respected a lot and hence didn't want to hurt them ... But after 3 months he came to know that she was still in contact with her friend using another phone without his knowledge and her affair also had not stopped . This time he couldn't tolerate and told this to her parents and told them that he would be filing for divorce. Her parents literally begged with him not to do so and requested him to give one last chance as they would mend her this time . He told them that even after giving her a chance to mend herself she has cheated again and broken his trust and that he couldn't live with her without trust . So he had decided to move on but his wife and her mother threatened him that they will have no other choice but to commit suicide if he doesnt forgive his wife. He was also worried about his children's future without their mother .. Based on some elders and friends (including mine )advice he gave her one last chance but on condition that there should not be any communication with her affair partner in future and if he comes to know about them being in any kind of contact he would be filing for divorce . His wife and her parents agreed to this and he took her back though not wholeheartedly but due to circumstances. Though they lived under one roof they did not live a harmonious life and lived like strangers and there used to be quarrels very frequently between them . This sometimes had gone physical and on many occasions his wife had threatened him with suicide... And in March this year he came to know that she was in contact with her affair partner secretly using another phone. When confronted she told they were just talking and nothing else...Though there may not be any physical contact this time my friend is very upset and adamant that he wouldn't live with her and want a mutual divorce ...His wife is not agreeing for it and threatening that she would write his name and end her life if he goes for a contested divorce. My friend is too worried about the legal complications if such a thing happens . He is also concerned about his kids especially his daughters future if he goes for a contested divorce based on adultery , the impact it would have on his daughter s future ..He doesn't want to spoil his daughters future ..At the same time he says he cannot imagine living with his wife again after being cheated on twice... Kindly advice what should I advise him ...
Ans: Hello sir. I understand the situation. The prime thing in this is that your friend should go directly to police station and should file a report that if anything of this sort happens, including harm to his in laws or wife then he will not be responsible and that they are regularly threatening him. This will make your friend legally safe and then he can take a mutual divorce if he wants telling his wife and in laws that he has already filed a complaint.
This is the primary step. Once done you can message again.
Regards

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8913 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 13, 2025
Money
Hi Ramalingam, I'm 33 and married, expecting a baby due in couple of months. I have a homeloan of 60L with EMI of 55k and tenure of 18 year to go. I have started investing in MF recently. Index fund(nifty 50 and nifty defense): 3.9L Large: 1L Large and midcap: 4.6L Flexi:3.2L Multicap: 1L Midcap: 85k Small: 1.75L Tech sector: 50k Equity infra sector: 1.7L SBI psu: 1.4 EPF Balance: 8L Savings: 10L Please advise how should I allocate my SIP moving forward if I have saving of around 5L per month. I want to invest in MF for better returns instead of clearing off the homeloan which has a lower interest rate. I'm looking to have funds for retirement. Please advise.
Ans: You are 33, expecting a baby soon, and wisely planning both your loan and future funds. You already have strong savings and investments. This outlook gives us a great base to build a 360-degree plan for retirement, goal purposes, and balanced wealth growth. Let’s go step by step.

1. Financial Snapshot Summary
Age 33, married, expecting a baby

Home loan: Rs.?60?lakh, EMI Rs.?55k monthly, 18 years remaining

Monthly savings ability: about Rs.?5?lakh

Existing investments:

Index funds (Nifty 50 and Nifty Defence): Rs.?3.9?lakh

Large cap: Rs.?1?lakh

Large & mid cap: Rs.?4.6?lakh

Flexi cap: Rs.?3.2?lakh

Multi cap: Rs.?1?lakh

Mid cap: Rs.?85k

Small cap: Rs.?1.75?lakh

Tech sector: Rs.?50k

Infra sector: Rs.?1.7?lakh

PSU fund: Rs.?1.4?lakh

EPF balance: Rs.?8?lakh

Savings account: Rs.?10?lakh

You are already diversified across equity categories and hold good liquidity. Excellent discipline.

2. Understanding Your Priorities
Baby’s arrival and early family needs

Retirement corpus building

Managing home loan without rushing to pre-pay

Growing assets wisely rather than clearing low-interest debt

Your home loan interest is low compared to market returns possible via equity investments. Therefore, shifting focus to wealth creation is sensible.

3. Risk & Liquidity Assessment
Your savings of Rs.?10?lakh plus existing liquidity provide good emergency buffer

EPF of Rs.?8?lakh ensures retirement base

Continue to maintain liquidity of 6 months’ expense in safe instruments

Keep updating emergency cushion as family expands

This ensures you avoid disrupting your investment in case of unforeseen needs.

4. Why Not Clear Home Loan Early
Home loan interest is relatively low (~8–9%)

Equity returns over long term can outperform that

Paying loan early sacrifices the benefit of compounding growth

Instead of clearing, channel money into goal-based investments

Continue standard EMI payment to maintain discipline

You can review part-prepayment later if you receive a bonus or surplus income.

5. Reconsider Index Fund Exposure
You hold index funds tracking Nifty 50 and a sector index. But:

Index funds lack active intervention during downturns

No flexibility—mirror entire index performance

Sectoral index funds are highly volatile and cyclical

You already hold sector funds (Tech and Infra) separately

Actively managed funds offer better downside management

They can allocate, exit, and adjust as economic conditions change

Recommend gradually transitioning index allocations to active large-cap or balanced funds with guidance from CFP-led distributor.

6. Asset Allocation & SIP Repositioning
You aim to invest Rs.?5?lakh monthly and build a long-term wealth engine. Here's a refined strategy:

Equity Allocation (60–65%)

Large / Flexi Cap Active Equity: Rs.?1.25?lakh

Mid Cap Active Equity: Rs.?50,000

Small Cap Active Equity: Rs.?25,000

Multi / Hybrid Equity (Balanced Advantage): Rs.?50,000

ELSS Tax Saver: Rs.?25,000

Debt Allocation (25–30%)

Short-to-Intermediate Debt Funds: Rs.?50,000

Children’s Hybrid Fund (short horizon bucket): Rs.?25,000

Other

Allocation to overseas or thematic equity capped at 5–10% through active funds

This structure offers growth and risk balance while keeping liquidity.

7. Children’s Goal Fund Planning
Your baby arrives soon. Early-stage costs include delivery, essentials, childcare. For 1–2 year need:

Create a “Baby Care Fund” of Rs.?3–4?lakh

Use short-term debt or hybrid mutual funds

Systematically invest Rs.?50k monthly or use part of savings

This ensures funds ready around the time needs arise

Post that, start “Education & Future Security” goal fund via mid/large-cap SIPs.

8. Maintaining SIP Priorities
Your current investment portfolio includes various equity exposures. To make it cohesive:

Reassess index fund exposure and reduce gradually

Continue and increase active equity SIPs as outlined

Use CFP advice to choose 3–4 high-conviction active funds

Avoid direct plans—use CFP-backed distributor for discipline

Balanced funds help cushion during volatile periods

As you invest Rs.?5?lakh monthly, implement the above allocation gradually, not abruptly.

9. Why Avoid Direct and Index Funds
Direct Funds: No expert support, fund monitoring, exit guidance.
Index Funds: No flexibility, follow blind script, no crisis management.
Agile Active Funds via CFP: Strategic stock moves, timely shifts, tailored for your risk.

Your goals need proactive fund management, not auto-pilot passive tools.

10. Retirement Corpus Plan
You are 33, planning retirement maybe at age 60. You have about 27 years of horizon.

Using structured SIPs and portfolio growth, you can:

Build a strong corpus via equity

Maintain a stable allocation of 60–70% equity + 30–40% debt

Gradually tilt towards debt as you near retirement

Regularly review portfolio health fall under CFP supervision

Keep monitoring inflation-adjusted goal progress

This method ensures a secure retirement plan.

11. Insurance & Protection
You didn’t mention insurance. With a baby on the way:

Health insurance – at least Rs.?10–15?lakh family floater

Term life insurance – Minimum Rs.?1–2?crore to cover loan and dependents

Avoid ULIPs or endowment plans—go for pure term and health

Take these via CFP recommended provider and cover soon

Insurance protects your financial plan against sudden events.

12. Debt Management after EMI
Your EMI of Rs.?55k runs for 18 years.

After baby and higher expenses:

Continue EMI as is

Avoid prepayment unless you receive a sizable bonus

When EMI ends, recalculate funds available for SIPs and goals

Use that opportunity to increase SIP amounts further

Use part of EMI funds towards retirement or asset-building

This planned shift after EMI end creates space for accelerated growth.

13. Liquidity, Reserves, and Top-Ups
Your current savings and surge capacity of Rs.?5?lakh enable flexibility:

Continue keeping liquidity of 4–6 months’ expenses

Keep separate corner for baby fund and emergency

Use surplus income for goal-linked investments

Avoid unnecessary lifestyle inflation despite high income

Top-up SIPs when salary or bonus increases

Discipline in surplus use will compound your wealth efficiently.

14. Tax Planning & Gains
Use ELSS SIPs for 80C benefits

Equity fund LTCG taxed 12.5% above Rs.?1.25?lakh per annum

Debt / hybrids taxed as per income slab

Use balanced and debt funds to optimise taxable interest

File ITR, claim deductions, and plan redemptions to control tax incidence

This keeps tax bite minimal and saves more for your goals.

15. Monitoring & Rebalancing
Review portfolio performance and fund objectives every six months

Rebalance asset mix when any category drifts >5%

Stop or shift under-performing funds after review

Avoid knee-jerk reactions—stay thought-through

CFP guidance ensures structured portfolio management

Consistent monitoring protects you from drift and decay.

16. Asset Creation vs Real Estate
You didn’t mention owning other real estate. But goal stated flat purchase may fit as goals.

However, central financial focus is investing in financial assets:

Equity, hybrid, and debt instruments remain central

Property can be considered separately once you hold large financial corpus

Keeping financial assets liquid allows better flexibility

Avoid overloading liquidity for real estate purchases

Enhancing financial assets comes first—it empowers freedom and choice.

17. Lifestyle & Support
Your surplus income supports lifestyle well.

Avoid big-ticket impulsive spending

Use value-based spending for travel, family events

Invest in skills or certification to grow income

Create additional income streams (freelance, side projects)

This increases your saving ability further

Lifestyle and income both support your wealth journey.

18. Succession & Estate Planning
With a baby on the way, important to secure your legacy:

Ensure you have proper nomination for all investments

Create a will or simplified estate plan

Appoint guardians, trustees as needed

This ensures smooth wealth transfer and peace of mind

These administrative steps protect your family and planning.

19. Roadmap Execution Timeline
Prioritize and allocate baby fund in short-term debt

Shift index and sectoral funds gradually to active funds

Structure SIP allocation for retirement and hybrid safety

Purchase insurance soon for protection

Continue EMI; use part payment only if surplus

Post-EMI, increase SIP allocation with added liquidity

Review portfolio semi-annually for performance and rebalance

Plan for education/long-term goals via systematic planning

Keep emergency reserve intact and live beneath means

Write a will and estate file once baby arrives

Stay consistent with your 5-lakh monthly allocation. The structure supports multiple goals.

Final Insights
Your income and savings are robust—very encouraging

Shift towards active, goal-based funds guided by CFP

Maintain discipline in EMI, insurance, and liquidity

Create dedicated buckets for family and retirement

Monitor and rebalance regularly, not reactively

Invest in yourself and grow income to amplify wealth

Be flexible—adjust plans as baby's arrival and life shifts

This structured 360-degree approach balances family, future, and financial freedom.

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |6244 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 10, 2025
Career
Integrated M Tech in Software Engineering or B Tech Electrical and CSE with Minor AI & ML (Both from VIT Chennai) - Which one to choose for better career options?
Ans: Both the Integrated M.Tech in Software Engineering and B.Tech Electrical and CSE with Minor in AI & ML at VIT Chennai offer strong academic and placement prospects, but they serve different career goals. The Integrated M.Tech in Software Engineering is a five-year program with about 70% placement rate, focusing on deep software engineering skills and providing a direct pathway to advanced roles in the IT sector, but it limits flexibility if you wish to switch fields later. The B.Tech Electrical and CSE with Minor in AI & ML is a four-year program, nearly 90% of students are placed, and it offers broader exposure to both core engineering and software, with the added advantage of specialization in high-demand AI/ML domains. Both programs benefit from VIT Chennai’s strong placement ecosystem, with top recruiters like Microsoft, Amazon, and Qualcomm, and average placement rates above 80% in recent years. The B.Tech with CSE and AI/ML minor provides more flexibility, industry relevance, and better prospects for diverse roles in both software and technology sectors, making it the preferable choice for most students seeking strong career options in a rapidly evolving job market. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...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