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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 12, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 29, 2024Hindi
Money

Hello Sir, I am 33 years old. Below is my asset. 1) PPF - 18 LAKH (I DEPOSIT 150000 PER YEAR) 2) STOCK (Invested almost 7 lakh) 3 ) SIP MONTHLY 19K ( INVESTED 13 lakh as of now) 4) Have my own house 5 ) 1.6 crore in post office schemes. 6) My salary almost 90k.but its uncertain. Do not have any NPS account. Want to retire when I am 40 but its uncertain. Do not want to rely on my job. Will that be a good decision? I want to generate a passive income of 1 lakh per month.will that be possible? I am recently married now.

Ans: Your aspirations of retiring by 40 and generating a passive income of Rs. 1 lakh per month are ambitious yet achievable with careful planning. Let’s delve into a detailed plan to help you reach your goals.

Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
Assets Overview
PPF (Public Provident Fund):

You have Rs. 18 lakh invested.
You contribute Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.
Stocks:

Investment of Rs. 7 lakh.
SIP (Systematic Investment Plan):

Monthly investment of Rs. 19,000.
Total investment so far is Rs. 13 lakh.
Own House:

This provides you with stability and reduces rental expenses.
Post Office Schemes:

Investment of Rs. 1.6 crore.
Salary:

Rs. 90,000 per month but it’s uncertain.
Financial Health
Your diversified investments are commendable. Your significant investments in post office schemes provide security. Your contributions to PPF and SIPs show your discipline in saving and investing. Owning your house is a strong financial asset, reducing living expenses.

Setting Goals and Strategies
Passive Income Generation
Generating a passive income of Rs. 1 lakh per month requires strategic planning. Your current investments are strong but may need adjustments for better returns and stability.

Retirement by 40
Retiring by 40 means you need a robust financial cushion. You’ll need enough to cover living expenses and medical costs for the long term.

Investment Strategies
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a stable and tax-efficient investment. Continuing your annual contributions is wise. It provides a safe and steady return, which is beneficial for long-term planning.

Stock Market Investments
Your Rs. 7 lakh investment in stocks is good. Diversify your portfolio to mitigate risks. Consider investing in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. This balance can provide both stability and growth.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
SIPs are an excellent way to invest in mutual funds. Your monthly Rs. 19,000 investment is significant. Focus on actively managed funds rather than index funds. Actively managed funds offer the potential for higher returns due to professional management.

Post Office Schemes
Your Rs. 1.6 crore investment is a solid base. These schemes are safe but often provide lower returns compared to other investments. Consider diversifying a portion of these funds into higher-yield investments.

Diversifying Investments
Mutual Funds:

Consider allocating more to actively managed mutual funds. They can provide better returns than passive funds or post office schemes.
Equity Investments:

Increase your equity exposure for higher returns. This includes direct stocks and equity mutual funds.
Debt Instruments:

Balance your portfolio with some high-quality debt instruments for stability.
Emergency Fund
Ensure you have an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This fund should be liquid and easily accessible. It provides a safety net in case of job uncertainty or other emergencies.

Insurance Planning
Health Insurance:

Secure comprehensive health insurance for you and your spouse. This safeguards against unexpected medical expenses.
Life Insurance:

Ensure adequate life insurance coverage to protect your family’s financial future. Avoid investment-linked insurance policies. Pure term insurance offers better coverage at lower premiums.
Tax Efficiency
Maximize your tax savings by utilizing available exemptions and deductions. PPF, life insurance premiums, and health insurance premiums are tax-efficient investments.

Creating a Passive Income Stream
Dividend Stocks
Invest in high dividend-yielding stocks. They provide a regular income stream. Choose companies with a history of stable and increasing dividends.

Rental Income
If possible, consider renting out a part of your property. This can provide a steady passive income.

Interest Income
Invest in bonds or debentures offering regular interest payouts. This provides a predictable income stream.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Consider SWPs from mutual funds for regular income. This strategy allows you to withdraw a fixed amount periodically from your mutual fund investments.

Peer-to-Peer Lending
Explore peer-to-peer lending platforms. They offer higher interest rates than traditional savings. However, assess the risks before investing.

Retirement Planning
Calculate Retirement Corpus
Estimate the corpus needed to retire comfortably. Consider your current expenses, inflation, and life expectancy.

Investment Allocation
Equities:

Continue investing in equities for growth. Over time, reduce exposure to manage risk.
Debt:

Increase debt investments as you approach retirement. This ensures stability and reduces risk.
Regular Reviews
Review your portfolio regularly. Adjust based on market conditions and life changes. Stay informed and proactive in managing your investments.

Financial Discipline
Maintain financial discipline and avoid unnecessary expenses. Save and invest diligently. Avoid relying solely on your job for financial security.

Budgeting
Create a budget to track income and expenses. This helps in managing finances effectively and identifying areas to save.

Avoid Debt
Minimize debt and avoid high-interest loans. Debt can erode your savings and affect financial stability.

Continuous Learning
Stay informed about financial markets and investment options. Continuous learning helps in making informed decisions.

Final Insights
Your financial journey is commendable. With your diversified investments and disciplined saving, you're on a solid path. Retiring at 40 is ambitious but achievable with strategic planning. Focus on creating a passive income stream through diverse investments. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to align with your goals.

Your goal of generating Rs. 1 lakh per month in passive income is attainable. It requires careful planning and disciplined investing. By diversifying your portfolio and focusing on higher-yield investments, you can achieve financial independence.

Congratulations on your recent marriage! Planning your finances together ensures a secure future. Stay committed to your financial goals and maintain discipline in your investments. Best of luck in your journey towards early retirement and financial independence.

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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 2024

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Greetings!! I am 33 years old, working as a civil engineer residing in Chennai with a family of four [ wife and two daughters]. I am earning Rs. 80,000 per month. My investment portfolio is given as below:- 1 LIC - Single Premium Endowment Plan Rs 10,00,000/- 2. LIC - New Money Back Plan - 25 yrs 821 Sum Assured Rs. 5,00,000/- 3. Public Provident Fund Rs. 1,50,000 P.A. 4. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Rs. 1,50,000 P.A. 5. Mutual Funds: SIP - Equity Funds Rs. 10,000 per month 6. Mutual Funds: Lumpsum - Equity Funds Rs. 20,00,000 My investment goal is to have a retirement corpus of Rs. 10 Cr. In this regard, I would like to request the following advice: - 1. Whether my investments are on the right track to achieve my goals or should I alter my investment portfolio ? 2. Are there any alternative options to generate passive income to strengthen my financial situation ? Looking forward to hearing from you.
Ans: Strategic Financial Planning for Retirement
Greetings! It's impressive to see your commitment to securing your family's financial future through thoughtful investments. Let's review your current portfolio and explore potential adjustments to align with your retirement goal.

Evaluating Current Investments
Genuine Compliments: Your dedication to financial planning for your family's well-being is truly commendable.

Empathy and Understanding: I understand the importance of ensuring a comfortable retirement for you and your loved ones, given your responsibilities and aspirations.

Assessing Investment Portfolio
Insurance-Cum-Investment Plans: Consider surrendering your LIC policies, as they may not offer optimal returns compared to other investment options.
Public Provident Fund (PPF) and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): These are excellent choices for long-term savings, providing tax benefits and stable returns.
Mutual Funds (MF): Your SIPs and lumpsum investments in equity funds are well-suited for long-term wealth accumulation, given their potential for higher returns.
Aligning with Retirement Goals
Reallocating Surrendered Amount: Reinvest the proceeds from surrendering LIC policies into mutual funds to benefit from potentially higher returns.
Retirement Corpus Target: Your goal of accumulating a retirement corpus of Rs. 10 Crores is ambitious but achievable with strategic planning and disciplined investing.
Passive Income Options: Explore avenues like dividend-paying stocks, rental income from real estate (if suitable), or systematic withdrawal plans (SWP) from mutual funds to generate passive income streams.
Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential
Certified Financial Planners can provide personalized advice and ongoing portfolio management, ensuring your investments align with your retirement goals.
Mutual Fund Distributors with CFP credentials offer expertise and guidance to optimize your investment portfolio for long-term growth and stability.
Conclusion
By reallocating your investments, focusing on high-return options like mutual funds, and seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner, you can enhance your chances of achieving your retirement goal and securing a financially stable future for your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 21, 2024Hindi
Money
Am 64 yrs old running. I am getting 32K monthly pension. Having 35 L FD, 20L liquid 10 L in trading investment but it's now 9 L Started 20K/ month SIP recently Having commitment of 110000 EMI for a flat for another 25 months total cost 1.2 C. staying in rental flat for 35K a month. Having own house at Native value of 1.5 C Having Plots around 1C Not having idea to sell Old house and plots I can work for 2 yrs and earn about 50 - 60 L Having commitment for 1 daughter marriage Paying 49 K/ Yr for 50 L Term policy till 75 yrs old. Having Gold for 40 L for wife and abt 1C for daughter Pls advise I need 2 L passive income Having 2 cars
Ans: At 64, you have built a solid financial base. You receive Rs 32,000 monthly as pension, which is commendable. Your assets include Rs 35 lakhs in fixed deposits, Rs 20 lakhs in liquid funds, and Rs 9 lakhs in trading investments (initially Rs 10 lakhs). Additionally, you’ve recently started a Rs 20,000 monthly SIP. You also have a significant commitment of Rs 1.1 lakh EMI for a flat, which will continue for another 25 months, with the total cost being Rs 1.2 crore. You currently reside in a rental flat, costing you Rs 35,000 per month, and own a house in your native place worth Rs 1.5 crore. Furthermore, you have plots worth Rs 1 crore and gold valued at Rs 40 lakhs for your wife and Rs 1 crore for your daughter. You also pay Rs 49,000 per year for a Rs 50 lakh term insurance policy, valid until age 75.

Financial Challenges and Goals
High EMI Commitments: Your EMI of Rs 1.1 lakh is a significant burden, especially when combined with your monthly rental of Rs 35,000. This commitment limits your liquidity and investment potential.

Limited Passive Income: You aspire to generate Rs 2 lakh in passive income, which requires a strategic approach given your current financial landscape.

Upcoming Responsibilities: Your daughter’s marriage is a major upcoming financial responsibility, for which you must plan carefully.

Future Employment: You can work for another 2 years and expect to earn Rs 50-60 lakhs, which provides an opportunity to bolster your financial security before full retirement.

Strategic Financial Plan
1. Managing Existing Commitments
EMI and Rental Costs: With only 25 months left on your flat EMI, continue prioritizing these payments to avoid financial strain. Once the EMI is completed, you’ll have more disposable income for investments or savings. You might consider relocating to your flat to save on rent.

Term Policy Review: You’re paying Rs 49,000 annually for a Rs 50 lakh term insurance. Given your age, this coverage is prudent. However, ensure that the premium isn’t causing undue strain on your finances. If necessary, consider downgrading the coverage slightly to reduce the premium, but only if it aligns with your risk tolerance and coverage needs.

2. Building Passive Income Streams
Enhancing SIP Contributions: You’ve started a Rs 20,000 monthly SIP, which is a great step. To achieve your goal of Rs 2 lakh in passive income, consider increasing your SIP amount gradually, especially after your EMI commitments are fulfilled. Over time, your SIPs will compound and provide a substantial passive income stream.

Fixed Deposits and Liquid Funds: Your Rs 35 lakh in FDs and Rs 20 lakh in liquid funds provide safety but low returns. To boost income, consider gradually shifting a portion into debt mutual funds or balanced advantage funds. These can provide higher returns with moderate risk.

Trading Investments: Your trading portfolio has decreased from Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 9 lakhs. Trading can be volatile and risky. It might be prudent to reduce exposure to high-risk trading and instead focus on stable, income-generating investments.

Realigning Investments: Given your conservative risk profile and the need for regular income, shift from direct equity trading to mutual funds. Opt for actively managed funds that balance growth and income. Consult a Certified Financial Planner to tailor a diversified portfolio.

3. Addressing Future Financial Responsibilities
Daughter’s Marriage: With significant gold reserves (Rs 40 lakhs for your wife and Rs 1 crore for your daughter), you are well-prepared for your daughter’s marriage. If additional funds are needed, consider utilizing a portion of your liquid funds or fixed deposits. Avoid selling long-term assets like your house or plots unless absolutely necessary.

Future Earnings: The Rs 50-60 lakhs you expect to earn in the next 2 years can be strategically allocated. Consider using this income to clear any remaining EMI quickly, thus freeing up cash flow. Also, allocate a portion towards high-return investments to boost your retirement corpus.

4. Optimizing Asset Utilization
Real Estate Holdings: While you don’t intend to sell your native house or plots, consider their potential as income-generating assets. Renting out the native house or plots could provide additional passive income. However, avoid taking on additional real estate investments, as they can be illiquid and may not align with your need for a steady income.

Gold Holdings: Your gold holdings are substantial, providing security for your daughter’s marriage. Avoid liquidating these assets unless necessary, as they are a hedge against inflation and a valuable part of your portfolio.

5. Retirement and Estate Planning
Retirement Corpus Growth: Post-EMI, focus on maximizing your retirement corpus through a mix of equity and debt mutual funds. This balanced approach can provide both growth and stability, ensuring you meet your Rs 2 lakh passive income goal.

Estate Planning: Ensure you have a comprehensive estate plan in place, including a will. This will help in the smooth transfer of your assets to your heirs and minimize any potential legal complications.

Investment Approach
1. Shift from Direct Trading to Managed Funds
Direct trading has caused a loss of Rs 1 lakh in your portfolio. Transitioning to actively managed mutual funds will provide professional management and reduce the risk. Managed funds can outperform in the long run, especially with a focus on your retirement goals.

2. Benefits of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
While direct funds have lower expense ratios, they require active management and market knowledge. By investing through a Certified Financial Planner in regular funds, you gain expert advice, portfolio management, and peace of mind. The higher returns often compensate for the slightly higher fees, making it a more suitable option for you.

3. Avoid Index Funds
Index funds, though low-cost, merely replicate market performance. They lack the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions, which is crucial as you approach retirement. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can adjust portfolios to protect against downside risks, ensuring more stable returns for your passive income needs.

Final Insights
You are on a strong financial footing with diversified assets and a clear vision for your future. The focus should now be on optimizing your investments and reducing unnecessary risks.

Once your EMI is cleared, you’ll have greater flexibility to invest in avenues that provide steady passive income. By gradually increasing your SIP contributions, shifting to managed mutual funds, and leveraging your real estate for rental income, you can achieve your goal of Rs 2 lakh monthly passive income.

Continue working for the next two years to build your retirement corpus further, ensuring a comfortable and financially secure retirement.

Finally, stay engaged with a Certified Financial Planner to regularly review and adjust your strategy, ensuring you remain on track to meet your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 30, 2025Hindi
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Money
Hi, I am 41 years old and Married. I have 2 kids one daughter 15 years and son 7 years old. I am drawing annually 24 Lakhs salary. Having 3 houses one self occupied and two give letout with annual 4.2 lakhs rental income. All houses worth together 3 Crores. Housing loans principle outstanding of 85 lakhs with interest rate of 8.6% with monthly EMI of 1.13 lakhs per month for next 9 years. As of today I have SIP worth 90 lakhs with an IRR of 20%, Bank FD 30 lakhs – 7%, PPF 47 lakhs and PF 26 lakhs. I have term insurance of 1 CR and my wife term insurance of 50 Lakhs. For these for next 5 years, I have to pay premium of 1 lakh per annum. Medical insurance from company 5 lakh per annum for my family of 4 members. I am continuing my SIP of 86K per month – flexi cap 24L, small cap 29K, large cap 19K, Mid cap 14K. Any shortage of funds, I am moving from FD to SIP gradually. (SIP started 7 years back - started with 15K and now SIP at 86K) My annual expenses comes to 15 Lakhs including everything. I would like to take retirement at 50 years. Please check my details and suggest for any modifications for better returns. Also, please let me know how I can meet with liquid assets of 20 crores (in addition to my current properties) Thanks!
Ans: You have a strong financial foundation.
Your salary and rental income total Rs. 28.2 lakhs per year.
Your housing loan EMI is Rs. 1.13 lakh per month, which is manageable.
Your investments are well-diversified across mutual funds, FDs, PPF, and PF.
Your SIP portfolio has delivered an excellent IRR of 20%.
You have term insurance for yourself and your wife.
Your annual expenses are Rs. 15 lakhs, which is reasonable.
You have medical insurance of Rs. 5 lakh from your employer.
You gradually move funds from FD to SIP, which is a good strategy.
Your goal is to accumulate Rs. 20 crores in liquid assets within the next 9 years.
Retirement Readiness Assessment
You have 9 years left until your target retirement age of 50.
Your current investments are significant, but reaching Rs. 20 crores requires strategic planning.
Your housing loan is a major commitment, but it will end in 9 years.
Your SIP contributions are already strong and should continue.
Your rental income is a bonus but not reliable for long-term financial security.
Modifications for Better Returns
Increase SIP Gradually
Your SIP of Rs. 86K per month is excellent.
As your salary increases, try to increase SIP by at least 10-15% annually.
Move more funds from FD to SIP, as FD returns are low.
Reallocate Fixed-Income Investments
Your PPF and PF are too conservative.
You can stop fresh PPF contributions and allocate that amount to equity.
Maintain some FD for emergency funds but move excess FD to high-return investments.
Prepay Housing Loan or Invest More?
Your housing loan has an 8.6% interest rate.
Your SIP IRR is 20%, which is higher than your loan rate.
Instead of prepaying, continue investing in equity for wealth creation.
Additional Insurance Coverage
Your company’s medical insurance of Rs. 5 lakh is insufficient.
Consider a separate family floater health insurance of Rs. 15-20 lakh.
Your term insurance coverage is reasonable. No changes are needed.
Achieving Rs. 20 Crores in Liquid Assets
Step 1: Projected Investment Growth
Your SIP portfolio of Rs. 90 lakhs at 20% IRR can grow significantly in 9 years.
If you continue SIPs aggressively, you can accumulate a substantial corpus.
Additional investments from FD and PPF reallocations will further boost growth.
Step 2: Boosting Investment Contributions
As you get salary hikes, increase your monthly SIPs.
Reduce unnecessary expenses to redirect more funds into investments.
Consider lump sum investments when you receive bonuses or windfalls.
Step 3: Maintaining Investment Discipline
Stick to actively managed mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner.
Stay invested during market fluctuations and avoid emotional decision-making.
Continue tracking and rebalancing your portfolio annually.
Finally
Your financial plan is strong, but small modifications can make a huge difference.
Increasing SIPs, reallocating low-yield investments, and maintaining discipline are key.
You are on track to build Rs. 20 crores in liquid assets if you execute this plan well.
Best Regards,

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

..Read more

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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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