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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 29, 2025

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
Suresh Question by Suresh on Jun 28, 2025Hindi
Money

Hello sir, I am 33 years old . Will get married in 3 years. I earn 84000/month and I have 11 lacs cash in bank saving account.my expenses is 25000/month. I want to invest my money. Suggest me good investment plan with no lock-in period and high returns.

Ans: You have taken the right step by thinking early. At 33 years of age, with strong savings habits and marriage plans ahead, your planning window is ideal. You are earning well and spending responsibly. Let us now build a 360-degree investment strategy for you.

Your Current Financial Snapshot
You are 33 years old and unmarried.

Monthly income is Rs. 84,000.

Your monthly expenses are Rs. 25,000.

You are saving around Rs. 59,000 monthly.

You hold Rs. 11 lakh in a savings account.

This is a solid foundation. You are on the right track. Now you need direction.

Understanding Your Objective
You are looking for:

High returns.

No lock-in period.

Safe and flexible investments.

But high returns and no lock-in is not always possible together. We need to strike a balance.

Ideal Priority Order
Before investing, arrange your priorities:

Build an emergency fund.

Plan for marriage in 3 years.

Plan short-term and long-term goals.

Allocate to equity for high growth.

Use hybrid products for medium-term.

Keep part of funds in liquid options.

Let us break this down now.

Emergency Fund Setup
An emergency fund is your safety net.

Should cover at least 6 months’ expenses.

For you, that’s around Rs. 1.5 lakh.

Keep it in a sweep-in FD or liquid mutual fund.

Do not touch this for any other use.

This should be built first before other investments.

Marriage Planning in 3 Years
You may need a large amount for wedding.

Start planning how much you will need.

Set a goal now. Estimate around Rs. 7–10 lakh.

Invest in hybrid mutual funds for this goal.

Choose conservative hybrid or balanced advantage funds.

These offer moderate risk and better returns than FDs.

How to Use Rs. 11 Lakh Effectively
Keeping all in a savings account is a lost opportunity.

Let us split this into goals and timelines.

Step 1: Reserve amount

Rs. 1.5 lakh for emergency fund.

Keep in savings or FD with sweep-in.

Step 2: Marriage fund

Allocate Rs. 6 lakh for wedding.

Invest in hybrid mutual funds.

Use 3 to 4 monthly STPs into those funds.

This reduces risk and manages volatility.

Step 3: Long-term wealth creation

Allocate Rs. 3.5 lakh for equity mutual funds.

Choose flexi cap and multicap funds.

Start monthly SIPs of Rs. 20,000 from income.

Add lump sum in staggered manner using STP.

Do not invest the entire amount in one go. Use monthly transfers.

Monthly Investment Plan
Your income is Rs. 84,000. Expenses are Rs. 25,000.

You save around Rs. 59,000 every month. That’s excellent.

Suggested monthly plan:

Rs. 20,000 in equity mutual funds (SIP).

Rs. 10,000 in hybrid funds (for medium-term).

Rs. 5,000 in short-term debt funds.

Keep Rs. 24,000 for flexibility, buffer, or step-up SIPs later.

This keeps your liquidity and growth in balance.

Why Mutual Funds Are Suitable
Mutual funds are flexible and goal-based. They suit your requirement best.

No fixed lock-in unless tax-saving type.

You can withdraw any time.

Can start with as low as Rs. 500.

Wide choice based on risk and goal.

Transparent and regulated.

Choose only regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential.

Do Not Invest in Direct Plans
You may hear about direct plans. But they are not suitable for everyone.

Disadvantages of direct mutual funds:

No guidance from an expert.

Wrong fund choice possible.

No monitoring or help in correction.

Emotional investing leads to mistakes.

Benefits of regular funds via MFD with CFP:

Goal-based fund selection.

Regular portfolio review.

Asset rebalancing based on markets.

Professional guidance always available.

You gain better peace of mind and long-term confidence.

Avoid Index Funds
You may hear about index funds from social media.

But they have serious drawbacks.

Problems with index funds:

No control on what you are buying.

Include overvalued stocks also.

No fund manager to protect downside.

Poor during market crash.

Cannot beat the market.

Why actively managed funds work better:

Skilled managers allocate smartly.

Better returns in Indian markets.

Defensive strategy during downturns.

Sector rotation based on macro analysis.

In India, actively managed funds are still more efficient.

Tax Efficiency of Mutual Funds
It is important to understand new tax rules.

Equity mutual fund rules:

Long term gains over Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short term gains taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds rules:

All gains taxed as per income slab.

Use hybrid and equity funds carefully to manage tax impact. Avoid selling frequently.

Investments You Should Avoid
To keep your plan simple and efficient, avoid:

Traditional LIC policies with low returns.

ULIPs with high charges and poor flexibility.

Endowment or money-back policies.

Annuities with poor returns and no liquidity.

Direct mutual funds without guidance.

Index funds with no upside potential.

Stick to mutual funds with expert help.

Insurance Review
You are unmarried now. You may not need life insurance yet.

But after marriage, consider a term plan.

Choose a cover of 15–20 times annual income.

Avoid insurance with investment mix.

Term plan is low cost and pure cover.

Buy only from trusted insurer with good claim record.

Future Steps
As your life progresses, your financial plan should evolve.

After marriage, your goals will change.

Review plan every year.

Increase SIPs when salary grows.

Build retirement fund from now.

Start planning for child goals early.

Keep things simple. Be consistent.

Important Reminders
To build wealth, focus on:

Time in market, not timing.

Increasing SIP with income.

Avoiding early withdrawals.

Annual goal review with CFP.

Not chasing quick returns.

Discipline beats excitement. Patience brings rewards.

Finally
You are in a strong position. You are earning well and spending wisely. You have good savings habits. What you now need is a clear, guided plan.

Here is your 360-degree strategy:

Build Rs. 1.5 lakh emergency fund.

Allocate Rs. 6 lakh for marriage in hybrid funds.

Invest Rs. 3.5 lakh for long-term via STP to equity funds.

Start Rs. 20,000 SIP in equity, Rs. 10,000 in hybrid monthly.

Review every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid direct and index funds.

Stay focused. Stay disciplined.

This plan will help you meet your goals easily. Wealth creation is a slow and steady journey. You already have the right mindset. Now use the right tools and right people.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
Asked on - Jul 02, 2025 | Answered on Jul 02, 2025
Sir thanks for detail explanation, Sir , I have zero idea about investing. Can you suggest me the names of mutual funds according to above plane
Ans: Since mutual fund selection depends on your goals, risk level, and time horizon, it is best to consult an MFD with CFP credentials. They will customise the plan and suggest the right schemes for you.

For personalised scheme recommendations, you may also contact me directly through my website mentioned below.

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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Hi sir am 41yrs old and earning 91k per month and have saving of 1 lac . I have invested 15L in M.I.S ,6.38L in equities and 5k every month in s.i.p.I have two kids , am planning to buy house after 4 years worth 50L kindly tell me any investment plan ...so that I can cover the expense of kids education and marriage
Ans: It's great to see your proactive approach towards financial planning, especially considering your children's education and marriage expenses, as well as your goal of buying a house. Here's a tailored investment plan to help you achieve your objectives:

Education Fund for Children:
Open separate education funds or investment accounts for each child to save specifically for their education expenses.
Consider investing in Equity Mutual Funds or Equity Linked Saving Schemes (ELSS) for long-term growth potential, given your investment horizon.
Start a systematic investment plan (SIP) in diversified equity funds, aiming to accumulate sufficient funds by the time your children reach college age.
Marriage Fund for Children:
Similarly, create dedicated investment accounts for your children's marriage expenses to ensure you have adequate funds when needed.
Explore a mix of equity and debt investments based on your risk tolerance and time horizon.
Consider fixed-income instruments like Public Provident Fund (PPF), Fixed Deposits (FDs), or Debt Mutual Funds for stability and capital preservation.
House Purchase Fund:
Since you plan to buy a house in four years, focus on short to medium-term investment options to accumulate the required down payment.
Consider investing in Debt Mutual Funds or Fixed Maturity Plans (FMPs) for capital protection and relatively higher returns compared to traditional savings accounts.
Evaluate your risk appetite and liquidity needs when selecting investment vehicles for your house purchase fund.
Regular Review and Adjustment:
Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
Adjust your investment strategy as needed, considering changes in market conditions, personal circumstances, and goal priorities.
Emergency Fund:
Maintain a separate emergency fund equivalent to at least six months' worth of living expenses to cover unforeseen financial challenges or expenses.
Keep this fund in a liquid and easily accessible account such as a savings account or liquid mutual fund.
Consult with Financial Advisor:
Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner or investment advisor to tailor an investment plan that suits your specific goals, risk profile, and financial situation.
A professional advisor can provide personalized guidance and help you navigate the complexities of investment planning, ensuring you make informed decisions.
By implementing a structured investment plan tailored to your goals and financial circumstances, you can work towards securing your children's future education and marriage expenses while also saving for your own house purchase. Stay disciplined in your savings and investment approach, and regularly monitor your progress towards achieving these important milestones

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I am 37 years old and earn a salary of Rs.75000/- per month. Please suggest me investment plan for me and my family(wife+1 kid) with higher returns.
Ans: Your financial plan must align with your family’s current and future needs.

You need to consider education for your child, your retirement, and family security.

Planning for emergencies and insurance coverage is also crucial to safeguard your loved ones.

Investing for higher returns requires a balance of risk and diversification.

Creating an Emergency Fund
Before starting investments, build a robust emergency fund.

This fund should cover 6 to 12 months’ expenses for unforeseen events.

Keep this fund in liquid instruments for easy access during emergencies.

It will ensure you do not disrupt other investments.

Securing Your Family with Insurance
Ensure you have adequate term insurance to secure your family’s future.

Coverage should be at least 10-15 times your annual income.

Medical insurance for all family members is equally important.

It protects your savings from high healthcare costs.

Systematic Investment for Long-Term Growth
Invest in equity mutual funds for long-term wealth creation.

These funds offer high growth potential suitable for long-term goals.

Professional fund managers optimise returns in actively managed funds.

They help outperform markets, offering better value than passive funds.

Balancing Medium-Term Goals
For medium-term goals like a child’s education, choose balanced or hybrid funds.

These funds combine equity and debt, reducing risks while ensuring reasonable returns.

Invest systematically through monthly contributions for consistent growth.

Avoid one-time investments for medium-term goals due to market volatility.

Debt Investments for Short-Term Goals
Use debt mutual funds for short-term financial needs.

These funds provide stability with lower risk compared to equity investments.

Debt funds are tax-efficient and offer better returns than fixed deposits.

They help preserve capital while meeting short-term expenses.

Avoiding Index Funds
Index funds do not actively manage investments and may underperform markets.

They offer no strategic asset allocation to adapt to market changes.

Active funds provide better growth with professional expertise managing risks.

Investing through Certified Financial Planners ensures personalised advice.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds lack professional guidance, leading to uninformed decisions.

Regular funds managed through Certified Financial Planners offer tailored strategies.

They monitor and optimise investments as per changing financial situations.

Investing for Your Child’s Future
Start early for your child’s education and future financial needs.

Equity funds are ideal for long-term growth, ensuring a substantial corpus.

Use systematic investment plans (SIPs) for disciplined investing over the years.

Diversify across fund categories to reduce risks while maximising returns.

Retirement Planning for Financial Independence
Invest in equity and balanced funds for a strong retirement corpus.

Start early to benefit from the power of compounding over time.

Increase investment amounts gradually as your income grows.

Ensure your retirement corpus covers inflation and your post-retirement lifestyle.

Diversifying Investments
Diversify across equity, debt, and hybrid funds to balance risks.

Avoid overexposure to one asset class or fund category.

Diversification minimises losses during market fluctuations.

Maintain a mix based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Regular Monitoring and Reviews
Monitor your investments regularly to ensure they align with your goals.

Review fund performance and make adjustments as needed.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner for expert guidance and timely changes.

Tax Efficiency in Investments
Understand tax implications before investing in any financial instrument.

Equity fund gains above Rs 1.25 lakh attract 12.5% tax.

Debt fund gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Choose tax-efficient funds while keeping your financial goals in focus.

Final Insights
A well-structured plan ensures financial security and growth for your family.

Focus on systematic investing with a long-term perspective.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalised and effective investment advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 02, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 14, 2025Hindi
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Hi , my monthly income is 1lac rupees, pls suggest an investment plan so that I can secure my future. I am 36 yrs old.
Ans: You have taken the first step towards a secure future. With your monthly income of Rs 1 lakh and age of 36 years, you can build a solid foundation for the future. Here is a detailed investment plan, explained simply for you. Let’s get started.

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Assessing Your Financial Position

At 36 years, you have many working years ahead. This is a good sign.

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Your income of Rs 1 lakh is good. It allows you to save well.

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Look at your expenses. See how much you can save every month.

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Aim to save at least 30% of your income. That is around Rs 30,000 monthly.

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If you have loans, pay them on time. Reduce high-interest loans first.

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Keep an emergency fund. It should be 6 to 12 months of expenses.

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Emergency fund should be in a safe place. A liquid fund or savings account is good.

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Setting Clear Goals

Write down your life goals. List them clearly.

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Short-term goals are for 1-3 years. Like buying a car or a trip.

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Medium-term goals are for 3-7 years. Like buying a house or children’s education.

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Long-term goals are for 10 years or more. Like retirement or children’s marriage.

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This will help you see how much money you need for each goal.

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Protecting Your Family First

First step is to have health insurance. This keeps you safe from medical costs.

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Health insurance for yourself and family is very important. Choose a good sum assured.

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You must also have life insurance. Use only term insurance for this.

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Term insurance covers your family if something happens to you.

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Avoid plans like ULIPs, endowment, or money-back. They mix insurance and investment.

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Mixing insurance and investment reduces returns. It is not good for long term.

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Building an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is very important. Keep 6-12 months of expenses.

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This money should be easy to take out. Use liquid mutual funds or savings account.

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It helps in job loss, medical need, or big expenses.

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Retirement Planning

Retirement is a big goal. Start saving early for it.

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Use mutual funds for retirement. They grow well over time.

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Start SIPs in good equity mutual funds. SIPs are monthly investments.

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SIPs help you invest small amounts every month. They also reduce market ups and downs.

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When you start early, you use the power of compounding. Money grows faster.

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Investing in Equity Mutual Funds

Equity mutual funds invest in companies. They help you grow your money.

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Choose funds that are well-managed. Good fund managers do better research.

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Equity mutual funds can be risky in short term. But they give good returns in long term.

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If you invest for 7-10 years or more, you will see better results.

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Why Not Index Funds

Index funds follow the market index. They do not have active fund managers.

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Index funds copy the index. They do not adjust to market changes.

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When markets fall, index funds also fall. No manager to reduce losses.

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Actively managed funds have expert fund managers. They find good stocks.

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Actively managed funds try to give better returns than index funds.

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Debt Mutual Funds for Stability

Debt mutual funds invest in safe bonds. They give stable returns.

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Use them for short-term and medium-term goals. Less risk than equity funds.

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Debt mutual funds are good for 1-3 years needs.

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They are better than bank FDs for short term. But they have some market risks.

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Taxation on debt funds is based on your income tax slab.

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Asset Allocation Strategy

Don’t put all money in equity. Mix with debt funds for balance.

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For long term, more money can go to equity mutual funds. Around 60-70% of your savings.

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For medium term, mix of 40-60% equity and 40-60% debt is better.

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For short term, more debt funds. Keep equity at 20% or less.

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This mix helps to reduce risk. Also, gives good growth.

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SIP – The Best Way to Invest

SIP is Systematic Investment Plan. You invest a fixed amount every month.

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SIP is easy. No need to worry about market ups and downs.

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SIP brings discipline. It is a habit of saving and investing.

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It helps you average out the cost of investment.

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Reviewing Your Investments

Review your investments once every year. Not every month.

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See if you are moving towards your goals.

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If needed, change your SIP amount. Or change the asset mix.

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Stay invested for long term. Do not stop SIPs when markets fall.

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Tax Planning

Mutual funds have different taxes. Know them to plan well.

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For equity funds, if you sell after 1 year, gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

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If you sell before 1 year, gains are taxed at 20%.

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For debt mutual funds, gains are taxed as per your income slab.

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Use ELSS funds to save tax under 80C. They are equity funds with 3 years lock-in.

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Do not invest in tax-saving just for saving tax. See if it matches your goals.

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Disadvantages of Direct Mutual Funds

Direct mutual funds have no advisor to guide you.

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Without advice, you may choose wrong funds. Or wrong asset mix.

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A Certified Financial Planner can guide you. They suggest funds for your needs.

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They help you with tax planning and reviews.

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Investing through a mutual fund distributor with a CFP can be better.

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Investment Through Regular Plans

Regular plans have a small cost. But give you expert advice.

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They help you avoid mistakes. This saves you more money in long term.

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Your Certified Financial Planner also helps with paperwork and claims.

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Avoiding Common Mistakes

Many people stop investing when markets fall. This is a mistake.

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Some people invest in too many funds. This creates confusion.

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Keep 4-5 good funds for your goals. No need for more.

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Do not invest because someone else does. Your needs are different.

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Avoid insurance plans that promise returns. They give low returns and high costs.

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Regular Tracking of Progress

Once a year, meet your Certified Financial Planner.

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Discuss if your goals have changed. Like new child, or new house.

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Adjust your plan if needed. Keep it updated.

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Financial Discipline

Keep track of your expenses. Reduce unnecessary costs.

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Avoid loans for wants. Use loans only for needs.

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Increase your SIP when your income grows.

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Keep investing even when markets fall. This brings good returns in future.

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Final Insights

At 36 years, you have time on your side. This is your biggest asset.

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Keep a good balance of equity and debt. Do not put all money in one place.

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Protect your family with term insurance and health insurance.

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Use SIPs in well-managed mutual funds. This gives you growth and peace of mind.

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Work with a Certified Financial Planner. They can help you at every step.

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Avoid mixing insurance and investments. Keep them separate.

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Review your investments regularly. Adjust as your life changes.

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Keep your mind calm. Do not panic when markets go down.

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Follow these steps with discipline. You will see a secure future.

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Stay patient and consistent. Your efforts will reward you.

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Best Regards,

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K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 04, 2025

Money
Hello sir, I am 33 years old . Will get married in 3 years. I earn 84000/month and I have 11 lacs cash in bank saving account.my expenses is 25000/month. I want to invest my money. I have zero knowledge of investing. Suggest me names of good mutual funds where I can invest with no lock-in period and high returns.
Ans: You’ve already done a great job by saving Rs.11 lacs by age 33.
That shows discipline and strong money habits.
Your expenses are low and you have a good income.
You also have 3 years before marriage.
This gives you the perfect opportunity to build a strong investment plan.

Let’s now look at how you can invest this money smartly and safely.
Even if you have zero investing knowledge, don’t worry.
Mutual funds are the best option for beginners like you.
We’ll keep things simple and safe with no lock-in periods.

» Step-by-Step Money Allocation Strategy

– First, divide your Rs.11 lacs into buckets.
– Don’t invest the entire amount into one type of fund.
– Diversification is key to reduce risk and improve returns.

– Keep Rs.2 lacs as emergency fund in a liquid mutual fund.
– These funds are safe and give better returns than savings bank.
– This fund will help you in sudden needs like health or job issues.

– Allocate Rs.2 lacs in short-term debt mutual funds.
– You may need this before your marriage in 3 years.
– These funds are better than FDs and have no lock-in.

– Use remaining Rs.7 lacs for long-term wealth building.
– Invest this in equity mutual funds for higher returns.
– Do not expect fixed or guaranteed returns.
– But long-term returns can be good with the right strategy.

» Emergency Fund Setup

– Emergency fund is your financial safety net.
– Do not ignore this even if you are young.
– Keep 6 months of expenses here.

– In your case, monthly expenses are Rs.25,000.
– So Rs.1.5–2 lacs is ideal emergency reserve.
– Use a liquid mutual fund for this.
– These funds allow withdrawal in 1 day.

– Returns are better than bank savings.
– No lock-in, no penalty, and easy access.
– Don’t use this money for investment or spending.

» Short-Term Investment for Marriage

– Marriage will happen in around 3 years.
– This money must be kept safe.

– Do not invest this in equity mutual funds.
– Equity may fall in short period due to market swings.

– Use short-duration debt funds or corporate bond funds.
– These give better returns than FDs and are more tax-efficient.

– No lock-in and you can withdraw when needed.
– Ideal for planned events in next 2–3 years.

– These funds suit low-risk goals like marriage or car purchase.

» Long-Term Investment Strategy

– You can invest Rs.7 lacs for long term.
– Use Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) for this money.

– First, park the full amount in a liquid fund.
– Then, transfer fixed amount monthly into equity mutual funds.

– This reduces the risk of market timing.
– Your money enters the market slowly and safely.

– Choose 2–3 good actively managed mutual funds.
– One flexi cap, one large & mid cap, and one hybrid equity fund.

– Flexi cap gives broad diversification.
– Large & mid cap gives balanced growth.
– Hybrid fund gives moderate return with less risk.

– Avoid small cap or sectoral funds for now.
– They are too risky for beginners.

– Don’t invest everything in equity right away.
– Let the STP handle the equity exposure over 12–18 months.

– Start a monthly SIP from salary also.
– You can easily save Rs.30,000 per month.

– Use that SIP for long-term goals like retirement.
– SIP builds habit and reduces risk with rupee cost averaging.

» Why You Must Avoid Index Funds

– Index funds copy the market index.
– They do not adjust for risk or quality of stocks.

– They follow passive investing.
– Passive funds never exit poor-performing companies.

– When market falls, index funds fall equally.
– They don’t protect downside at all.

– Actively managed funds are better in Indian markets.
– Good fund managers change stock mix as per market.

– Active funds have outperformed index funds over time.
– They offer better control and return potential.

– As a beginner, you need active fund manager’s support.
– Avoid passive style funds till you become experienced.

» Should You Choose Direct or Regular Plans?

– Many investors choose direct mutual funds for lower expense.
– But they miss expert support and handholding.

– With regular funds, you get guidance from MFDs with CFP credentials.
– They help in fund selection, review, and rebalancing.

– Beginners make emotional mistakes in direct funds.
– Wrong fund choices and panic exits reduce wealth.

– Regular plans cost a bit more.
– But they help avoid costly mistakes.

– Use regular plans through trusted MFD associated with a Certified Financial Planner.
– You will save more in the long run.

» Tax Planning Points You Must Know

– Equity mutual fund gains above Rs.1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
– Short-term equity gains are taxed at 20%.

– Debt fund gains are taxed as per your slab rate.
– But they still give better post-tax return than FDs.

– Liquid fund returns are also taxable.
– But capital gain tax is only on withdrawal.

– Avoid frequent selling to reduce tax burden.
– Hold equity mutual funds for long-term gain.

– You don’t need to pay tax unless you withdraw.
– Plan withdrawals smartly to save tax.

– Certified Financial Planner will guide best tax-efficient way.

» You Must Also Do This from Now

– Take one health insurance policy without delay.
– Don’t wait till marriage or job change.

– Also take one term life cover if you have family dependents.
– Not needed if you have no financial dependents now.

– Start tracking your expenses and savings every month.
– Use mobile apps to monitor your goals and investments.

– Revisit your plan every 12 months.
– You may need to adjust as income and goals change.

– Avoid investing in insurance-linked products or ULIPs.
– They give low return and lack flexibility.

– Do not invest in traditional LIC or endowment plans.
– Surrender if you hold them and invest in mutual funds instead.

– Always link your investments to goals.
– Don’t invest randomly or for tax saving alone.

– Get in touch with a Certified Financial Planner.
– He will help design a long-term plan with 360-degree view.

» Finally

– You have strong savings, low expenses and time on your side.
– Just use the right plan and strategy now.

– Split your Rs.11 lacs smartly into emergency, short-term and long-term buckets.
– Use liquid and debt funds for short goals.
– Use equity funds slowly through STP for long-term wealth.

– Avoid direct and index funds for now.
– Choose regular plans through MFD backed by a Certified Financial Planner.

– Add monthly SIP of Rs.30,000 from your income.
– This will build a great retirement corpus in future.

– Review every year and adjust as your life changes.
– You’re starting at the right time and place.

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

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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.

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