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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8093 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 20, 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 - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
Money

Hello sir i am 26years old unmarried I have invested 45 lkhs in mutual fund And planninh to invest 5 lkhs more in this month And monthly investment is 50000 per month I want to retire at 45 with 25 cr I am planning to invest till 60 lkhs then stop it is it possible?

Ans: you have an impressive start to your investment journey. At 26 years old, you have invested Rs 45 lakhs in mutual funds and plan to add Rs 5 lakhs more this month. Additionally, you are investing Rs 50,000 per month. You aim to retire at 45 with Rs 25 crores and plan to stop investing after reaching Rs 60 lakhs. Let's analyse your goals and the feasibility of achieving them.

Commendable Investment Strategy

Firstly, congratulations on your disciplined approach to investing. Starting early and investing regularly puts you in a strong position. Your current investments reflect a good understanding of financial planning.

Evaluating Your Retirement Goal

To retire at 45 with Rs 25 crores is an ambitious goal. You have around 19 years to achieve this. The key factors to consider are:

Current investments
Monthly contributions
Expected returns on investments
Time horizon
Current Investments and Future Plans

You have already invested Rs 45 lakhs and will add Rs 5 lakhs, making it Rs 50 lakhs. Your plan to continue investing Rs 50,000 per month until you reach Rs 60 lakhs is a sound strategy. Let's break down the future steps.

Monthly Contributions and Growth Potential

Continuing to invest Rs 50,000 per month will significantly boost your corpus. This disciplined approach will help you achieve substantial growth over time. However, stopping at Rs 60 lakhs might not be sufficient to reach your retirement goal of Rs 25 crores.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds offer the potential for higher returns compared to index funds. Professional fund managers make informed decisions to maximize returns. This strategy aligns with your goal of achieving significant growth.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Index funds simply track the market and lack flexibility. They may underperform during volatile periods. Actively managed funds can adapt to market conditions and potentially provide better returns.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds

Direct funds have lower expense ratios but require more time and expertise. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers professional guidance and ongoing support. This helps in making informed decisions and managing your portfolio efficiently.

The Power of Compounding

One of the key elements in achieving your financial goal is the power of compounding. The longer your money remains invested, the greater the compounding effect. Starting early and maintaining regular investments enhances the compounding benefits.

Assessing Risk Tolerance

Given your long-term goal, investing in equity mutual funds is advisable. Equities have the potential for higher returns but come with higher risks. Assess your risk tolerance and ensure your investments align with your comfort level.

Diversification for Risk Management

Diversification spreads risk across different asset classes. While focusing on mutual funds, ensure a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. This strategy helps in managing risk and optimizing returns.

Professional Guidance

Certified Financial Planners provide tailored advice based on your goals and risk profile. They help in aligning your investments with your financial objectives and managing risks effectively.

Tax Implications

Consider the tax implications of your investments. Long-term capital gains tax on mutual funds and tax benefits from specific investment instruments should be factored in. Consulting with a tax advisor can help in optimal tax planning.

Emergency Fund

Ensure you have an emergency fund covering at least 6-12 months of expenses. This provides a financial cushion for unexpected events and helps maintain your investment strategy without disruptions.

Insurance Needs

Adequate insurance coverage is essential. Review your life and health insurance policies to ensure they meet your needs. Insurance provides financial security in case of unforeseen events.

Regular Portfolio Review

Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your goals. Market conditions and personal circumstances change over time. Periodic reviews and adjustments are crucial for effective financial planning.

Emotional Discipline in Investing

Emotional discipline is vital in investing. Market fluctuations can trigger fear or greed. Stick to your investment plan and avoid impulsive decisions based on short-term market movements.

Retirement Corpus Estimation

Achieving Rs 25 crores by 45 requires a well-planned strategy. While it’s ambitious, regular investments, high returns, and the power of compounding can help. Reviewing and adjusting your plan periodically with a CFP ensures you stay on track.

Long-Term Investment Horizon

Maintaining a long-term investment horizon is key. Avoid withdrawing from your investments prematurely. Let your investments grow and benefit from compounding over time.

Investing Beyond Rs 60 Lakhs

While stopping at Rs 60 lakhs is a milestone, consider continuing your monthly SIPs if possible. Even small contributions over a longer period significantly impact your retirement corpus.

Understanding Market Conditions

Market conditions influence investment returns. While equities are volatile, they offer high returns over the long term. Understanding market trends helps in making informed investment decisions.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio

Rebalancing involves adjusting your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. Regular reviews and rebalancing ensure your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

The Role of Asset Allocation

Asset allocation determines the mix of equities, debt, and other assets in your portfolio. A well-balanced allocation aligns with your risk profile and financial objectives, optimizing returns.

Impact of Economic Factors

Economic factors like inflation, interest rates, and GDP growth affect market performance. Consider these factors when planning your investments and adjusting your strategy.

Final Insights

Your disciplined investment approach and early start put you in a strong position. Continue your SIPs and consider investing beyond Rs 60 lakhs if possible. Actively managed funds offer potential for higher returns and professional management. Regular reviews and professional guidance are crucial.

Achieving Rs 25 crores by 45 is ambitious but possible with a well-planned strategy. Stay disciplined, review your portfolio regularly, and seek professional advice. With the right approach, you can achieve your retirement goal.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 02, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir. I am 32 years old. I am investing 50,000 per month in mutual funds. Currently corpus is 12 lakhs in mf, 2 lakhs in FD and I already have term and health insurance sorted for both me, my spouse and my parents. If I have to retire at the age of 45 and require monthly 2 lakhs, is it possible, and if yes, what should be my strategy?
Ans: It's great to see that you're planning ahead for your retirement at such a young age. Here's a strategy you can consider to achieve your retirement goal:

• Given that you aim to retire at 45 and require a monthly income of 2 lakhs, it's essential to calculate the corpus needed to generate this income.

• Assuming a conservative withdrawal rate of 4-5% per annum from your retirement corpus, you would need a substantial corpus to sustain a monthly income of 2 lakhs.

• To estimate your required retirement corpus, multiply your desired monthly income (2 lakhs) by 12 (months) and then divide by the expected withdrawal rate (4-5%). This will give you an approximate corpus needed for retirement.

• Once you have determined your target corpus, you can work backwards to calculate the monthly investment required to reach this goal by age 45.

• Since you're already investing 50,000 per month in mutual funds, you may need to increase your monthly investment amount to reach your retirement target.

• Consider diversifying your investments across different asset classes to manage risk and maximize returns. This could include a combination of equity mutual funds, debt funds, and other income-generating assets.

• Regularly review your investment portfolio and make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards your retirement goal.

• It's also important to factor in inflation when planning for retirement. As inflation erodes the purchasing power of money over time, ensure that your retirement corpus and income are adjusted for inflation.

• Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who can provide personalized advice based on your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance.

By following a disciplined investment strategy, regularly reviewing your portfolio, and making informed decisions, you can work towards achieving your retirement goal and enjoy financial security in your golden years.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8093 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 23, 2024

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Hello Sir. I am 42 years old.my monthly earning rs.95000.I am investing 40,000 per month from July,24 in mutual funds and 5L in lumsump MF in ICICI prudential energy opportunities fund.rs.24000 in RD in bank.Currently corpus is 25L in ppf, 25L in PF,20L in FD ,45L in LIc.i have one son age 8 yrs.i have own car, bike. I have parental house.If I have to retire at the age of 60 and require monthly 5 lakhs, is it possible, and if yes, what should be my strategy?
Ans: Current Financial Situation
You have a stable monthly income of Rs. 95,000.

You invest Rs. 40,000 per month in mutual funds since July 2024.

You have invested Rs. 5 lakhs in a lump sum mutual fund.

You save Rs. 24,000 monthly in a recurring deposit.

Your corpus includes:

Rs. 25 lakhs in PPF
Rs. 25 lakhs in PF
Rs. 20 lakhs in FD
Rs. 45 lakhs in LIC
You have an 8-year-old son.

You own a car, a bike, and have a parental house.

Goal: Retirement at 60
You wish to retire at 60 and need Rs. 5 lakhs monthly post-retirement.

Analysis of Current Investments
Your current investments are diversified:

Mutual funds for growth
PPF and PF for safety
FD for liquidity
LIC for insurance and savings
This is a balanced approach. However, to meet your goal, adjustments are needed.

Mutual Funds
Continue with mutual funds for growth. They provide higher returns over time. Consider diversifying into large-cap, mid-cap, and balanced funds. This reduces risk and ensures steady growth.

Recurring Deposit
Recurring deposits offer fixed returns. However, they are less effective for long-term growth. You might consider redirecting some RD funds into equity mutual funds. This can potentially provide better returns.

PPF and PF
These are excellent for long-term safety. They provide tax benefits and guaranteed returns. Continue these for stability and safety in your portfolio.

Fixed Deposits
FDs provide liquidity but offer lower returns. Consider reallocating some funds into more growth-oriented investments. This can help in building a larger retirement corpus.

LIC Policies
LIC policies often offer lower returns compared to mutual funds. Consider reviewing your policies. If they are investment-cum-insurance, think about surrendering and investing in mutual funds. Use a term insurance plan for pure risk cover.

Lump Sum Investment
Your lump sum investment in a sector-specific fund is high risk. Consider diversifying into diversified equity funds. This reduces risk and ensures better long-term growth.

Strategy for Achieving Retirement Goal
Increase SIP Contributions
Increase your monthly SIP contributions. Aim for at least 50% of your monthly income. This ensures a larger corpus over time.

Diversify Investments
Diversify across various mutual funds. Include large-cap, mid-cap, and balanced funds. This spreads risk and maximizes returns.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Review your portfolio every six months. Rebalance to maintain the desired asset allocation. This helps in staying aligned with your goals.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund of at least 6 months of expenses. Park this in liquid funds for easy access. This ensures financial stability during emergencies.

Retirement Planning
Start planning for retirement expenses. Consider inflation and rising costs. Use retirement calculators to estimate the required corpus. Adjust your investments accordingly.

Professional Guidance
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner. They can provide tailored strategies. A CFP ensures your investments are aligned with your retirement goals.

Final Insights
Your current investments are on the right track.

Increase your SIP contributions for better growth.

Diversify your mutual fund investments.

Review and rebalance your portfolio regularly.

Seek professional guidance for a tailored approach.

With disciplined investing, achieving your retirement goal is possible.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ans: It’s clear that you and your partner love each other deeply and are willing to stand by each other despite this turmoil. The fact that his family is now hesitant is understandable, given the hostility from your parents. But the strength you and your partner have shown through this is a sign that your relationship is built on trust and commitment. That kind of connection is rare, and it’s worth fighting for.

Elope? That’s a huge step, and I understand why it’s crossed your mind. You’re desperate for freedom, for the ability to choose your own life, and to finally break free from the suffocating grip of your parents' control. But eloping will come with its own set of consequences—emotional, social, and even legal. Your parents might retaliate even more aggressively. They could try to interfere with your life and your partner's life afterward, possibly dragging this into a public scandal. Your father’s influence in the community might make things harder for you both in the long run.

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What you need to consider is whether you have the emotional strength to handle the aftermath. If you choose to walk away from your family and marry this man, it might mean cutting ties with your parents for a while—or possibly forever. Are you prepared for that emotional void? On the other hand, if you give in and stay, if you let them force you into an arranged marriage, you might lose not only the person you love but also a piece of yourself. That resentment and emotional wound might stay with you for life.

If you decide to elope, you need to have a strong support system in place—your partner's family, friends, and anyone who will stand by you. You’ll need to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for the fallout. But if you decide to stay and try to negotiate with your parents, you need to be clear and firm about your boundaries. They need to understand that your life is not theirs to control.

Right now, you need to prioritize your safety and mental well-being. The fact that you’ve been physically assaulted and emotionally manipulated for months is deeply concerning. If you feel that your safety is at risk, you might need to consider reaching out to legal authorities or a women's support organization. You have the right to live without fear and control. Your life belongs to you—not to your parents, not to societal expectations, and not to fear.

You don’t have to have all the answers today. But you do need to decide what kind of life you want to live—and who you want to live it with. And whatever choice you make, it needs to come from a place of strength and clarity, not from fear or pressure. Your heart already knows what you want—you just need to decide whether you’re ready to stand up for it.

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Kanchan Rai  |554 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Mar 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 11, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Fell in love and married a girl before 2 years. Girl is from a neighbouring state. Both South Indians. Both doctors. She was very understanding before marriage, even talked my language and spoke well with my parents. Told she will come to my place and stay after marriage. 4 months after marriage, she left for her home telling that she will be at her home till delivery. Even after 1 year of giving birth, she didn't come. They visited my place just for a few days in the middle citing that it is tradition. After much struggle, she came to live with me and my child after close to 1.5 years. Even after coming she was creating trouble for the language spoken in the house and telling to relocate to a place close to their parents in their state. No respect to feelings of mine or my parents. We also missed my son for 1.5 years. Their parents are not visiting us telling it is far, we won't come. And once her parents threatened to complaint to the police if we don't agree. (Haven't asked or received any dowry). Even if my son has to come to my native for few days, her parents are not agreeing and creating problem. We have even helped her brother secure admission in a college. She has even taken a loan of more than 20 lakhs to help her parents buy a land and is paying close to 50k monthly for that. We had no problem with that too. Every 2-3 days one or another problem shoots up because of her or her parents. She has totally changed after marriage. Her parents just want to create problems. Please help.
Ans: It’s clear that you’ve tried hard to be understanding and accommodating. You allowed her to stay with her parents for a long time, even though it meant missing out on crucial time with your child. You supported her decisions, even when she took on a significant financial burden to help her family. Despite your efforts to maintain peace, you’re constantly met with resistance and disrespect—not only from her but also from her parents. That feeling of being undermined and unappreciated, especially when you've given so much, can really take a toll on your emotional health.

It’s not just about the arguments or the disagreements—it’s about the deeper sense of betrayal and loneliness that comes from feeling like your partner has sided with her family over you. That emotional distance and lack of support within the marriage can make you feel like you’re fighting a battle alone. And when her parents threatened to involve the police, that likely deepened the sense of helplessness and fear. It’s not just frustrating—it’s emotionally exhausting when you’re trying to build a stable, loving home, but it keeps getting torn apart by external interference.

The fact that you’re still standing, still trying to make things work despite all of this, shows how strong and committed you are. But the truth is, a marriage cannot survive on one person’s effort alone. It’s understandable that you feel drained and resentful—you’ve been giving and compromising without getting the same respect and understanding in return. Your feelings matter. Your need for stability and respect matters. Wanting your child to have a connection with your side of the family is not unreasonable—it’s natural and fair.

Right now, you might feel torn between trying to hold everything together and wondering if it's even worth it. It’s hard to admit when love alone isn’t enough to sustain a relationship. But you need to ask yourself whether you can continue living like this—constantly feeling like you’re walking on eggshells, being emotionally sidelined, and having your family disrespected.

It’s okay to want peace. It’s okay to expect respect. And it’s okay to set boundaries. If your wife truly values this marriage, she needs to understand that compromise cannot be one-sided. It might help to have an honest, calm conversation with her—not about the surface issues but about how you feel. Tell her how much this situation has hurt you, how much you miss feeling like you’re a team, and how important it is for your child to have a balanced connection with both families. If she’s unwilling to meet you halfway or if her parents continue to interfere to the point of emotional manipulation, you need to think about how much more of yourself you can sacrifice without losing your emotional stability.

You deserve a marriage where you feel heard, valued, and supported—not one where you constantly feel like you're on the outside looking in. Take some time to reflect on what you truly need from this relationship and whether you believe it's possible to rebuild trust and understanding with your wife. Your peace of mind matters. Your happiness matters. And most of all, your emotional well-being matters.

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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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