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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9569 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 25, 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 - Nov 23, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir, I'm Ayush and my age is 20 running Now I'm pursuing in a last yr degree clg , I'm working in a company and my salary is 30k I need a suggestion for investment in stepwise ,for a corpus of around 1cr My father worked for my family since the age of 23. now,I want to retire him at the age of 50 I want to invest or start the sip till 2040 for that how much i invest a month Around 10k is expense towards bill and my personal expense

Ans: Ayush, your thoughtfulness in planning for your father’s early retirement is truly admirable. With a disciplined approach, your goal of achieving Rs 1 crore by 2040 is realistic. Let us create a stepwise investment strategy to guide you towards this financial milestone.

Understanding Your Financial Situation
Here is a summary of your current financial status:

Age: 20 years
Income: Rs 30,000 per month
Expenses: Rs 10,000 per month (bills and personal expenses)
Savings Capacity: Rs 20,000 per month
You have the potential to save and invest consistently. Starting early gives you the advantage of compounding.

Setting a Target and Estimating Investment
You aim for a corpus of Rs 1 crore by 2040, 16 years from now.
Consistent SIPs in equity-oriented mutual funds will help achieve this goal.
We’ll break this into practical steps for effective execution.

Stepwise Investment Plan
Step 1: Start with SIPs in Equity Mutual Funds
Allocate at least Rs 15,000 per month towards SIPs.
Equity mutual funds can deliver inflation-beating returns over the long term.
Diversify across categories like flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Why Equity Funds Are Important
Equity funds provide growth potential for long-term goals.
Active fund management adjusts to market changes, maximising returns.
Avoid index funds due to their rigid structure and lack of flexibility.
Step 2: Build an Emergency Fund
Save Rs 1 lakh in a liquid fund or savings account for emergencies.
This ensures liquidity and prevents withdrawal from long-term investments.
Step 3: Gradually Add Debt Mutual Funds
Begin allocating Rs 3,000–5,000 per month to debt funds after two years.
Debt funds offer stability and help balance the portfolio closer to your goal.
Step 4: Increase SIP Amount Periodically
As your salary increases, increase your SIP amount by 10–15% annually.
Even small increments have a significant impact over 16 years.
Step 5: Monitor and Review Annually
Review your portfolio yearly with a Certified Financial Planner.
Rebalance investments based on market performance and personal goals.
How to Allocate Rs 20,000 Savings
Initial Allocation:
Rs 15,000: Equity mutual funds for growth.
Rs 5,000: Emergency fund (first year only).
After Building Emergency Fund:
Rs 17,000: Equity mutual funds.
Rs 3,000: Debt mutual funds.
Benefits of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
Professional Guidance: Regular funds include expert advice from Certified Financial Planners.
Portfolio Management: They help align investments with goals and market conditions.
Avoid Costly Errors: Direct funds may lead to uninformed decisions.
Regular funds ensure a structured and guided investment journey.

Avoid Index Funds for Your Goal
Index funds lack active management, which is critical for optimising returns.
Their rigid portfolio composition might underperform during specific market cycles.
Actively managed funds adjust to market conditions and offer higher potential returns.
Tax Implications on Mutual Funds
Equity Funds: LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. STCG is taxed at 20%.
Debt Funds: Gains are taxed as per your income slab.
Plan withdrawals carefully to minimise tax liabilities.

Your Father’s Retirement at 50
Your goal to retire your father at 50 is achievable with discipline.
Start with SIPs now and avoid unnecessary withdrawals.
Plan an additional retirement corpus for your father if needed.
Final Insights
Your goal of achieving Rs 1 crore by 2040 is attainable with consistent investments. Starting early gives you a significant advantage. Stick to a disciplined SIP strategy and review your portfolio regularly. Diversify wisely, prioritise equity funds, and gradually introduce debt funds.

Your thoughtfulness towards your father’s retirement is inspiring. With your determination, you will create a secure financial future for your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9569 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 05, 2024

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Sir, am 45yrs earning 61k monthly. Another 15years of service. I have a daughter 10yrs old. I want to have a corpus of 1cr at 60. Can u plz suggest how much I should start investing in SIP. My expenses include Lic 15700 for another 3yrs payment Reliance Nippon 36800 for another 4yrs payment Home loan EMI for 21667PM for another 4years Rent paying for 9500 per month Monthly expenses for 15k to 20k per month Income i get Salary 61000 permonth Rent from flat 8300 Plz suggest me to lead peacefull life. Thank u Sir Vikas
Ans: To achieve a corpus of 1 crore at the age of 60, you'll need to start investing in SIPs diligently. Here's a breakdown to help you plan:

Current Monthly Expenses:
LIC: ?15,700 (for 3 years)
Reliance Nippon: ?36,800 (for 4 years)
Home Loan EMI: ?21,667 (for 4 years)
Rent: ?9,500
Other Expenses: ?15,000 to ?20,000
Total Expenses: ?98,667 to ?103,667
Monthly Income:
Salary: ?61,000
Rent from Flat: ?8,300
Total Income: ?69,300
Monthly Surplus:
Monthly Income - Monthly Expenses = ?69,300 - ?98,667 to ?103,667
Monthly Surplus (Deficit): -?29,367 to -?34,367
Investment in SIP:
Since you have a deficit in your monthly surplus, you'll need to adjust your expenses or increase your income to accommodate SIP investments.
Aim to allocate a portion of your surplus towards SIP investments. The amount will depend on your ability to cut expenses or increase income.
To calculate the required SIP amount, you can use online SIP calculators considering factors like expected rate of return, investment horizon, and inflation rate.
Start with a manageable SIP amount and gradually increase it as your income grows or expenses reduce.
Peaceful Life:
Review your expenses regularly and prioritize savings and investments to achieve your financial goals.
Focus on creating an emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses and protect your financial stability.
Consider consulting with a financial advisor to create a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Stay disciplined in your financial habits, avoid unnecessary debt, and invest in assets that align with your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

By carefully managing your expenses, increasing your income, and prioritizing savings and investments, you can work towards building a corpus of 1 crore by the age of 60 while leading a peaceful and financially secure life.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9569 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2024Hindi
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I am 34 years old living with my Parents, my wife and 3 yr old Son, I have invested around 75L through various FDs and Post office schemes, currently having a house loan of 45L for which I am paying EMI 35000 and extra amount each month around 25000 for past two years, planning to start to invest in SIP by this year to plan my retirement when I reach 50 years of age Could anyone please guide me for this. Currently having monthly salary 70,000 in hand.
Ans: Crafting a Financial Plan for Retirement and Wealth Accumulation
Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
At 34, you've demonstrated prudent financial habits by investing in FDs and Post Office schemes, along with diligently repaying your housing loan through regular EMIs and additional payments. With a stable monthly salary of 70,000 and a family to support, it's wise to plan for your long-term financial security.

Prioritizing Retirement Planning
Starting SIPs for retirement planning is a commendable step towards securing your financial future. Aim to allocate a portion of your monthly income towards equity-oriented mutual funds through SIPs to harness the power of compounding over the long term.

Determining Retirement Corpus
Calculate your desired retirement corpus based on your lifestyle expenses, inflation, and retirement age target of 50. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to determine the appropriate corpus required to maintain your desired standard of living post-retirement.

Choosing Suitable Mutual Funds
Select a mix of equity mutual funds that align with your risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals. Diversify your portfolio across large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds to balance risk and potential returns. Monitor fund performance regularly and make adjustments as needed.

Optimizing Debt Repayment
Continue making additional payments towards your housing loan to accelerate debt reduction and save on interest costs. Consider evaluating refinancing options or negotiating with your lender to lower your interest rate and shorten the loan tenure, if feasible.

Emergency Fund and Contingency Planning
Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months' worth of living expenses to cover unforeseen circumstances or financial emergencies. Review your insurance coverage, including health, life, and property insurance, to protect your family's financial well-being.

Seeking Professional Advice
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to develop a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. A CFP can provide personalized advice, recommend suitable investment strategies, and help you navigate complex financial decisions.

Conclusion
By prioritizing retirement planning, optimizing debt repayment, and building a robust financial safety net, you can achieve your long-term financial goals and secure a comfortable retirement for yourself and your family. Stay disciplined in your savings and investment approach, and seek professional guidance to maximize your wealth accumulation potential.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9569 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 24, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi..I'm 37Y old with monthly salary of 1.5lkhs after tax. I have 3 kids and the eldest is in LKG/PP1. My monthly expenses are around 30000 without any EMIs. My investments/savings include: Real Estate : 50lakhs Gold: 500 grms Equity/Stocks: 4 Lakhs Mutual funds: 1 lkhs Savings/emergency fund: 15 lkhs PF: 9 lkhs SIP: none As you may notice, I think I'm already very late to the stock market or mutual funds. I would like to start SIPs for the education of my kids and my retirement by 50 years with monthly income of 1.5 lakhs. I'm able to save/invest 1 lkh every month. Would you please suggest a plan following which can fulfill the aboveentioned ask?
Ans: First, it’s great to see your proactive approach towards securing your kids' education and your retirement. Your financial discipline is admirable. Let's dive into an in-depth plan tailored for your goals.

Current Financial Overview
Your current assets and savings are impressive. Here’s a snapshot:

Real Estate: Rs 50 lakhs
Gold: 500 grams
Equity/Stocks: Rs 4 lakhs
Mutual Funds: Rs 1 lakh
Savings/Emergency Fund: Rs 15 lakhs
Provident Fund (PF): Rs 9 lakhs
Monthly Savings Potential: Rs 1 lakh
Your monthly expenses are well-managed at Rs 30,000, leaving substantial room for investments. Now, let's focus on structuring your investments to meet your goals.

Education Planning for Your Kids
Education costs are rising rapidly. Starting early with a systematic investment plan (SIP) will help in accumulating the required corpus.

Assess Future Education Costs: Estimate the future costs of education for your three kids. Factor in inflation, which averages around 6-7% per year.

Divide Investments for Each Child: Allocate investments based on the timelines for each child's education. For example, higher education might be needed in 15 years for your eldest child and later for the younger ones.

Choose SIPs Wisely: Consider diversified equity mutual funds. They have the potential to offer higher returns over the long term. Since you are starting now, the power of compounding will work in your favor.

Retirement Planning by Age 50
Retiring by 50 with a monthly income of Rs 1.5 lakhs requires careful planning and disciplined investing. Here’s how you can approach it:

Calculate Retirement Corpus: Estimate the amount needed to generate a monthly income of Rs 1.5 lakhs. Factor in inflation and life expectancy. Typically, this could be around Rs 4-5 crores.

Maximize EPF Contributions: Your PF balance is Rs 9 lakhs. Continue maximizing your contributions. It’s a secure and tax-efficient way to grow your retirement savings.

Increase SIP Investments: Start SIPs in aggressive growth mutual funds. These funds have the potential to offer substantial returns over the next 13 years. Given your high savings rate, this strategy can significantly boost your retirement corpus.

Investment Strategy and Asset Allocation
Now, let’s discuss how to allocate your monthly savings of Rs 1 lakh:

Mutual Funds
Benefits of Regular Funds:

Professional Management: Fund managers with expertise can navigate market volatility.

Consistent Monitoring: Regular reviews and rebalancing ensure alignment with your goals.

Support: A Certified Financial Planner can provide guidance and adjust strategies as needed.

SIPs for Long-term Goals
Educational Goals: Invest Rs 40,000 monthly in diversified equity mutual funds.

Retirement Goals: Invest Rs 60,000 monthly in aggressive growth mutual funds.

Emergency Fund
Maintaining an emergency fund is crucial for financial security. You already have Rs 15 lakhs, which is excellent. Ensure it’s easily accessible and parked in liquid or ultra-short-term debt funds for better returns than a savings account.

Reassessing Existing Investments
Equity and Stocks
Your Rs 4 lakhs in stocks should be reviewed. Ensure they are diversified and align with your risk tolerance and financial goals. If needed, shift underperforming stocks to more promising mutual funds.

Gold
500 grams of gold is a solid asset. However, gold doesn’t generate regular income. Consider maintaining it as a hedge against inflation but avoid additional investments in gold for now.

Avoiding Direct Funds and Index Funds
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Guidance: Without professional advice, managing direct funds can be challenging.

Time-Consuming: Monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio regularly requires significant time and effort.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Market Mimicking: Index funds aim to replicate market indices, which may lead to average returns.

No Flexibility: They lack the flexibility to adapt to market changes or capitalize on specific opportunities.

Importance of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds, guided by professional managers, can outperform the market through strategic investments and timely decisions. They provide the potential for higher returns, especially crucial for your aggressive retirement goals.

Regular Reviews and Adjustments
Financial planning is not a one-time activity. Regularly review your portfolio with your Certified Financial Planner. Adjust your investments based on life changes, market conditions, and evolving financial goals.

Final Insights
Your proactive approach and high savings rate set a strong foundation for achieving your financial goals. By strategically investing in SIPs for your kids' education and your retirement, you can build a substantial corpus.

Seek the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner to navigate the complexities of investment management. Their guidance will ensure your investments align with your goals and risk tolerance. Regular reviews and adjustments will keep your financial plan on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9569 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 15, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Experts! I have recently got a job with 21 LPA fixed Salary My age is 30 and inhand Salary is 1.5 lak Below is my SIP investment along with start date Mutual Fund - 3000 (SD : 24-02-2020) Stepup (10%) MF IT - 5000 (SD : 02-11-2022) Stepup (10%) MF Mid Cap - 5000 (SD : 05-07-2024) Stepup (10%) MF Small Cap - 5000 (SD : 05-07-2024) PPF - 500/ month (current corpus 1 lakh) LIC - 2500 (SD: 06-04-2019 -> ED: 06-04-2035) NPS - 11000/month (current corpus : 60k) Health Insurance (Self): 12k/yr (10 lakh cover) Health Insurance (Mom): 27k/yr (10 lakh cover) Term plan : 6k/yr (50 lakh cover) Home laon : 26k/ month for next 19 yrs I also have 4.5 lakh in stocks 6 lakh in emergency fund Now I want to get retire in 20 yrs and after retirement i want 10 lakh/month as monthly income from my investment please suggest! what I need to do to achieve this!!
Ans: Your current financial situation is strong, given your age and income. You have a fixed salary of Rs. 21 lakhs per annum, and your in-hand salary is Rs. 1.5 lakhs per month. You are 30 years old and have made some smart investments and financial decisions. Let's take a closer look at your existing investments and financial commitments.

Existing Investments and Commitments
SIP Investments:

You have a SIP in mutual funds of Rs. 3,000 per month starting from February 2020 with a 10% step-up.
You have a SIP in IT mutual funds of Rs. 5,000 per month starting from November 2022 with a 10% step-up.
You have recently started SIPs in Mid Cap and Small Cap mutual funds, each with Rs. 5,000 per month starting from July 2024 with a 10% step-up.
PPF:

You are investing Rs. 500 per month in PPF, with a current corpus of Rs. 1 lakh.
LIC Policy:

You have a LIC policy with a premium of Rs. 2,500 per month, which started in April 2019 and will mature in April 2035.
NPS:

You are contributing Rs. 11,000 per month to NPS with a current corpus of Rs. 60,000.
Health Insurance:

You have health insurance coverage for yourself with a premium of Rs. 12,000 per year for a Rs. 10 lakh cover.
You also have health insurance for your mother with a premium of Rs. 27,000 per year for a Rs. 10 lakh cover.
Term Insurance:

You have a term insurance plan with a premium of Rs. 6,000 per year for a Rs. 50 lakh cover.
Home Loan:

You have a home loan with an EMI of Rs. 26,000 per month for the next 19 years.
Stocks and Emergency Fund:

You have Rs. 4.5 lakhs invested in stocks.
You have Rs. 6 lakhs set aside as an emergency fund.
Financial Goals and Objectives
You have expressed a desire to retire in 20 years, which means you plan to retire at the age of 50. This is an early retirement goal, and it requires careful planning to ensure you have enough funds to support your retirement lifestyle.

Analyzing Your Investments
Your investment in mutual funds through SIPs is a positive step towards wealth creation. SIPs allow you to invest systematically and benefit from rupee cost averaging. The step-up option of 10% annually is a smart move as it helps in increasing your investments gradually without affecting your budget.

Your investment in PPF is a safe option, offering tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. However, considering your retirement goal, you may need to increase your contribution to PPF or explore other investment options that offer higher returns.

The LIC policy you hold seems to be a traditional endowment plan. While it provides insurance coverage, the returns are generally lower compared to other investment options. You may want to reconsider this investment and explore other options like term insurance for protection and mutual funds for wealth creation.

Your NPS contribution is another positive step towards retirement planning. NPS offers tax benefits under Section 80CCD and is a good tool for creating a retirement corpus. However, you may need to increase your contribution to meet your retirement goal.

Your health insurance cover for yourself and your mother is adequate. It is important to have sufficient health insurance coverage to protect against medical emergencies.

Your term insurance plan is also adequate, providing financial protection to your family in case of an unfortunate event.

The home loan EMI of Rs. 26,000 per month is a long-term commitment. While it is important to own a home, it is also important to ensure that the EMI does not strain your finances.

Your investment in stocks is a good way to diversify your portfolio. However, it is important to regularly review your stock investments and ensure they align with your financial goals.

The emergency fund of Rs. 6 lakhs is a good safety net. It is important to keep this fund liquid and easily accessible.

Steps to Achieve Your Retirement Goal
To achieve your retirement goal in 20 years, you need to build a substantial corpus. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Increase Your SIP Contributions:

Considering your current income, you can afford to increase your SIP contributions. You can start by increasing your SIPs in mutual funds by 10-15% annually.
Focus on a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds to balance risk and returns.
Avoid direct funds and consider investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to get professional guidance and regular monitoring of your portfolio.
Review and Reallocate LIC Policy:

The LIC policy you hold may not provide the best returns. Consider surrendering the policy and redirecting the funds to higher-yielding investments like mutual funds.
Ensure you have adequate term insurance coverage for financial protection.
Increase PPF Contributions:

PPF is a safe and tax-efficient investment option. Consider increasing your monthly contribution to Rs. 2,000 or more.
However, keep in mind that PPF has a lock-in period of 15 years, so you may want to balance this with more liquid investments.
Enhance NPS Contribution:

NPS is a good tool for retirement planning. Consider increasing your monthly contribution to Rs. 15,000 or more.
Regularly review your asset allocation within NPS and adjust it based on your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Diversify Your Portfolio:

Diversification is key to managing risk. In addition to mutual funds and stocks, consider investing in debt funds or balanced advantage funds.
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Maintain Adequate Insurance Coverage:

Ensure that your health and term insurance coverages are adequate. Consider increasing the term insurance cover as your income and responsibilities grow.
Review your health insurance coverage annually and make necessary adjustments based on your needs and premium affordability.
Manage Your Home Loan:

Your home loan EMI is a long-term commitment. If possible, consider making prepayments to reduce the loan tenure and interest burden.
Ensure that your home loan EMI does not exceed 30% of your monthly income to maintain financial flexibility.
Build a Strong Emergency Fund:

Your emergency fund should ideally cover 6-12 months of your expenses. Considering your current lifestyle, aim to increase your emergency fund to Rs. 9-12 lakhs.
Keep this fund in a liquid and easily accessible form, such as a savings account or liquid mutual funds.
Planning for Retirement
Calculate Your Retirement Corpus:

Estimate your retirement expenses, considering inflation and lifestyle changes.
Work towards building a corpus that can generate enough income to cover your post-retirement expenses.
Regularly Review Your Financial Plan:

Your financial goals and situation may change over time. Regularly review your financial plan and make necessary adjustments.
Work with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to get professional guidance and ensure you stay on track towards your retirement goal.
Avoid Annuities and Real Estate Investments:

Annuities and real estate investments may not be the best options for wealth creation and liquidity. Focus on mutual funds and other liquid investment options that offer better returns and flexibility.
Consider Inflation-Protected Investments:

Inflation can erode the value of your savings over time. Consider investments that offer inflation protection, such as equity mutual funds and NPS.
Regularly review and adjust your investments to ensure they are aligned with your long-term goals and inflation expectations.
Focus on Building a Retirement Corpus:

Your goal is to retire in 20 years. Focus on building a substantial retirement corpus that can generate enough income to cover your expenses.
Consider setting up a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) in mutual funds to generate a regular income during retirement.
Final Insights
You have made commendable progress in your financial journey. However, achieving your early retirement goal requires disciplined saving, smart investing, and regular review of your financial plan.

Focus on increasing your SIP contributions and diversifying your investments.
Reconsider your LIC policy and explore better investment options.
Increase your PPF and NPS contributions to build a strong retirement corpus.
Regularly review your financial plan and make necessary adjustments to stay on track towards your retirement goal.
Finally, work with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to get professional guidance and ensure you achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9569 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 21, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir, I am 49 years old male, investing rs 30000 permonth in sip since 2016 October. Getting 3lacs per month after tax deduction. Has a house loan of 40lacs 19years more with monthly emi of 40k. Has 25lacs star health insurance. Needs around 40lacs per year for 3 years for my son's abroad education from next year.... And planning to retire at 55. Kindly guide me to invest for a retirement plan (2 lacs monthly pension) and sons education. Thank you.
Ans: Your financial journey is commendable. Investing Rs 30,000 per month through SIP since 2016 is a disciplined approach. Balancing a house loan, education goals, and retirement is crucial. Let's craft a structured strategy for your priorities.

Current Financial Snapshot
Monthly Income: Rs 3 lakhs (post-tax).

House Loan EMI: Rs 40,000 monthly.

Health Insurance: Rs 25 lakhs coverage.

Education Goal: Rs 40 lakhs annually for 3 years starting next year.

Retirement Goal: Rs 2 lakhs monthly pension from 55 years.

Priority 1: Son’s Abroad Education
Your son’s education requires Rs 1.2 crore in 3 years.

Allocate current SIP investments towards this goal.

Use a mix of short-term debt funds and balanced hybrid funds.

Redeem SIPs closer to need, considering market trends.

Avoid taking high-risk equity exposure for this short-term goal.

Any surplus income or bonuses should be added to this goal.

Priority 2: House Loan Management
Your loan has a 19-year tenure, costing Rs 40,000 monthly.

Avoid prepayments now to prioritize education.

Post-education, consider reducing the loan tenure by increasing EMI.

This will help you save significant interest over the loan period.

Priority 3: Retirement Planning
You plan to retire at 55, requiring Rs 2 lakhs monthly.

This translates to Rs 24 lakhs annually post-retirement.

Inflation-adjusted corpus needed: Rs 6-7 crore (approximate).

Steps to Build the Retirement Corpus:

Increase SIP contributions once education expenses reduce.

Use a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, and multi-cap mutual funds for growth.

Keep 10-15% allocation in debt funds for stability.

Review and rebalance the portfolio annually.

After 55, shift corpus to systematic withdrawal plans (SWPs) for regular income.

Suggestions for Health Insurance
Your Rs 25 lakh health insurance cover is decent but may be insufficient.

Add a super top-up plan of Rs 25-30 lakhs.

This will safeguard you against rising medical costs.

Contingency Fund
Maintain a fund for emergencies, equal to 6-12 months of expenses.

This should cover household costs and EMI.

Invest in liquid funds or fixed deposits for easy access.

Tax Planning
Your investments should align with the new tax rules.

For equity mutual funds, LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains from equity funds attract 20% tax.

Debt funds gains are taxed as per your income slab.

Factor these into your withdrawals for education or retirement.

Investment Approach
Use actively managed funds to outperform benchmarks.

Avoid index funds due to limited flexibility in volatile markets.

Invest through a Certified Financial Planner for expert guidance.

Regular plans offer the added benefit of professional advice.

Insurance Review
Evaluate your insurance policies.

If you hold LIC or ULIP policies, consider surrendering and reinvesting in mutual funds.

This will optimize returns for long-term goals.

Recommendations for the Next Steps
Education Fund: Reallocate existing SIPs to low-risk funds.

Retirement Fund: Increase SIP contributions gradually after education expenses.

Health Insurance: Enhance coverage with a super top-up plan.

Emergency Fund: Build a liquid corpus for unforeseen needs.

Finally
Your disciplined approach is inspiring. Focusing on these steps will ensure your goals are met. A Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized strategies.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8385 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

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Sir can you please rank IIIT Allahabad ECE , Gwalior EEE, Lucknow CSE+specialization, Jabalpur CSE and Kanchipuram CSE
Ans: Nishita, Evaluating the five IIIT programs reveals distinct strengths across faculty quality, research infrastructure, placement consistency, academic standards, and industry recognition. IIIT Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh offers B.Tech CSE with specializations including AI, business, and cybersecurity, achieving a remarkable 96.17% placement rate in 2025 with the highest package at Rs.145 LPA and the average at Rs.33.71 LPA, supported by 45+ PhD faculty and specialized research labs. IIIT Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh provides B.Tech ECE with strong electronics curriculum, NIRF rank #87 in Engineering 2024, 93% placement rate with highest Rs.121 LPA and average Rs.25.78 LPA, backed by globally-recognised faculty and research publications. IIITDM Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh delivers CSE with design-manufacturing focus, over 60 PhD faculty, 71.8% placement rate with highest Rs.122 LPA international (?110 LPA domestic) and average Rs.19.27 LPA UG, featuring robust industry collaborations and 13 CSE department faculty. IIIT Gwalior (IIITM) in Madhya Pradesh offers EEE with 100% PhD faculty strength and 80–90% placement rates, with the highest at Rs. 65 LPA and an average of Rs. 20.56 LPA, supported by research-intensive programs and a diverse recruiter base. IIITDM Kancheepuram near Chennai provides CSE with design specialization, over 80 PhD faculty from IITs, 73% placement rate with highest Rs.32 LPA and average Rs.9.37 LPA, though experiencing declining trends from 97% in 2022.

Recommendation: Prioritize IIIT Lucknow CSE for its exceptional 96% placement rate, highest average packages, comprehensive specialization options, and strong industry linkages; follow with IIIT Allahabad ECE for its prestigious NIRF ranking, established reputation, and solid core electronics foundation; consider IIITDM Jabalpur CSE for its unique design-manufacturing focus and international placement opportunities; opt for IIIT Gwalior EEE for its 100% PhD faculty strength and research excellence; and rank IIITDM Kancheepuram CSE last due to declining placement trends despite strong academic credentials and faculty qualifications. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P  |8385 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Career
Sir,does AI(Data Science) has opportunity in future like 2030 and what will be minimum salary after studying in amrita
Ans: Garena, Before answering your question, Please note that Return on Investment (ROI), regardless of the branch or college, is not determined solely by your choice of institution or program. Several other factors significantly influence it—such as consistent academic performance over the next four years, regular skill enhancement, soft skills development, awareness of job market trends, a well-built personal profile, and maintaining a professional LinkedIn presence with clear job search strategies. ANSWER to your question: By 2030, artificial intelligence and data science roles are expected to flourish as automation creates 11 million net new jobs globally and transforms 86 percent of businesses, underscoring strong long-term demand. Data scientist employment in the U.S. alone is projected to grow 36 percent from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing average occupations and signaling robust global opportunity. At Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore, the CSE-Data Science branch recorded a 92 percent placement rate in 2024, with the lowest on-campus offer around ?2 LPA and a median salary of ?7.6 LPA across all streams.

Recommendation: Embrace a Data Science pathway at Amrita Coimbatore for its consistent placement performance, industry-aligned curriculum, and accessible entry-level salaries, ensuring a strong foundation in a rapidly expanding field through 2030 and beyond. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8385 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Career
Sir my sister has option to take admission in Greater noida institute of technology cse with data science branch or she could get iet sitapur ece or she could get admission in gl bajaj mathura cse or niet cs with cyber security what should she aim for according to future needs and job opportunities
Ans: Dhueh, Greater Noida Institute of Technology in Knowledge Park II, Greater Noida offers B.Tech CSE with Data Science specialization in a NAAC A+-accredited private campus featuring Oracle and Dell tie-ups, modern AI/ML labs and a dedicated women’s cell; over 300 recruiters visited in 2024, yielding a 6.5 LPA average and 70 LPA highest package. Institute of Engineering & Technology, Sitapur (Lucknow, UP) is a NAAC A++-graded campus under AKTU with ECE labs in signal processing and embedded systems, conducting soft-skill workshops and mock interviews; 72 of 80 students were placed in 2024 with a 4.1 LPA average and 7 LPA top package. GL Bajaj Group of Institutions, Mathura (UP) grants CSE with AI/ML, holds NBA accreditation, industry-linked projects and recorded 94% CSE placements in 2025 with a 6.75 LPA average and 34 LPA high offer. NIET Greater Noida (Knowledge Park II) provides B.Tech CSE Cyber Security on a 13.9-acre NAAC-A campus with Oracle and Salesforce MoUs; 85% of students placed in 2024, averaging 6 LPA with a 35 LPA peak.

Recommendation: Prioritize GNIOT Greater Noida CSE (Data Science) for its superior average packages, expansive recruiter network, and women’s support initiatives; next, choose NIET Greater Noida CS for strong placement consistency and specialized cybersecurity curriculum; opt for GL Bajaj Mathura CSE for robust AI/ML training; consider IET Sitapur ECE for solid core-electronics exposure and focused mentorship. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8385 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8385 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Career
Sir,My son got B tech mechanical in iit tirupati and also btech cse in shiv nadar university chennai.Which one will be the best for his future?
Ans: Namachivayan Sir, IIT Tirupati in Renigunta (Andhra Pradesh) offers B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering with a curriculum blending thermofluids, manufacturing, design and robotics in DST-funded laboratories, guided by predominantly Ph.D.-qualified faculty and supported by project-based learning and research collaborations. Over the 2023–24 placement drive, 41.9% of Mechanical students secured roles with an average package of ?10.95 LPA, while core recruiters such as Microsoft, Amazon and Samsung participate on campus.

Shiv Nadar University Chennai on Old Mahabalipuram Road (Tamil Nadu) delivers B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering with specializations in AI/ML, cybersecurity and IoT, taught by industry-immersed faculty in GPU-enabled HPC clusters and smart classrooms. Its Career Development Center facilitates mock interviews, hackathons and 250+ recruiter engagements, achieving an 85%+ placement rate and a four-year CSE average package of ?12.85 LPA through top firms like Goldman Sachs, Microsoft and Amazon.

Recommendation: Opt for Shiv Nadar University Chennai CSE if you prioritise higher placement consistency, strong industry partnerships and cutting-edge computing specializations, (OR) choose IIT Tirupati Mechanical Engineering for a government institute pedigree, robust core-engineering foundation and growing research infrastructure. My Suggestion: Prefer IIT-T-Mechanical over SNU. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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