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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8093 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 23, 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
Rahul Question by Rahul on May 22, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir , My Age is 25 and I am planning to start SIP although I am investing in stock market I don't have any idea in SIP and my goal is to have a corpus of 4 cr and from next year I will be able to save around 1 lakh rs per month so kindly help

Ans: Thank you for reaching out. It's great to hear you're planning to start investing in a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP).

At 25, you have a fantastic advantage with time on your side, allowing compounding to work in your favour.

Understanding SIP
SIP allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly in mutual funds.

It offers the benefits of disciplined investing and rupee cost averaging, helping mitigate market volatility.

Setting Your Goal
You've set an ambitious goal of accumulating a corpus of ?4 crores.

Starting early and investing regularly will help you achieve this target over time.

Monthly Savings Plan
You plan to save ?1 lakh per month starting next year.

This is a substantial amount and will significantly contribute to reaching your goal.

Expected Returns
Typically, mutual funds can offer varying returns.

For this discussion, let's assume an annual return of 12%. This is a reasonable estimate for long-term equity mutual funds.

Benefits of SIP
Rupee Cost Averaging: SIPs help average out the purchase cost over time.

Disciplined Investment: Regular investments instill financial discipline.

Compounding Benefits: Early and consistent investing leverages the power of compounding.

Flexible Investments: You can start with smaller amounts and gradually increase your SIP contributions.

Convenient and Automated: SIPs are automated, making the process convenient.

Steps to Start SIP
Define Your Goals: Clearly outline your financial goals and investment horizon.

Risk Assessment: Assess your risk tolerance to choose appropriate funds.

Select Funds: Choose actively managed funds for potentially higher returns.

KYC Compliance: Complete your KYC process, mandatory for investing in mutual funds.

Set Up SIP: Decide the SIP amount and start investing through your chosen mutual funds.

Evaluating Fund Performance
Historical Returns: Review the fund's historical performance.

Fund Manager's Track Record: Check the expertise and track record of the fund manager.

Expense Ratio: Lower expense ratios can lead to higher net returns.

Consistency: Look for funds with consistent performance across market cycles.

Monitoring Your Investments
Regular Review: Periodically review your investment portfolio.

Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments based on performance and goals.

Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with market trends and news.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Limited Flexibility: Index funds track a specific index, limiting flexibility.

No Outperformance: They aim to match, not outperform, the index.

Market Cap Bias: Heavily weighted towards large-cap stocks.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Potential for Higher Returns: Skilled fund managers can outperform the market.

Flexibility: Managers can adjust portfolios based on market conditions.

Diversification: Actively managed funds often have a diversified portfolio.

Importance of Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
Personalized Advice: A CFP provides tailored investment strategies.

Holistic Planning: They consider your entire financial situation and goals.

Expert Guidance: Benefit from their expertise and market knowledge.

Building a Diversified Portfolio
Equity Funds: For long-term growth, consider equity mutual funds.

Debt Funds: Add stability with debt funds.

Balanced Funds: Combine equity and debt for moderate risk and returns.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds
Expert Advice: Regular funds through MFDs with CFP credentials offer expert advice.

Support and Guidance: Continuous support for your investment journey.

Holistic Approach: Regular funds ensure a comprehensive financial plan.

Conclusion
Starting a SIP is a wise decision.

It aligns with your goal of creating a substantial corpus of ?4 crores.

Remember to review your investments regularly and adjust as needed.

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  |8093 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 28, 2024Hindi
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Sir i want to invest in sip my monthly saving will be between 1000 to 2500 Rs please advice.
Ans: It's great that you're looking to start investing through SIPs with your monthly savings! Here's some advice tailored to your budget:

Start Small: Even with a modest monthly savings of Rs. 1000 to 2500, you can begin investing through SIPs. The key is to start early and remain consistent with your contributions.
Choose Low-Cost Funds: Look for mutual funds with low expense ratios, as they minimize the impact of fees on your returns. Opt for direct plans of mutual funds to save on distribution expenses.
Focus on Equity Funds: Given your long-term investment horizon, consider investing in equity mutual funds. These funds have the potential to deliver higher returns over the long run, although they come with higher volatility.
Diversify Your Portfolio: Select a mix of different types of equity funds, such as large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds, to spread your risk across various market segments. Diversification can help mitigate the impact of market fluctuations.
Stay Invested for the Long Term: SIPs work best when you stay invested for the long term, allowing your investments to benefit from the power of compounding. Aim to invest consistently over several years to maximize your returns.
Review and Adjust: Periodically review your SIP investments to ensure they align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. You may need to adjust your investment strategy based on changes in your financial situation or market conditions.
Stay Informed: Take the time to educate yourself about mutual funds, investment strategies, and market trends. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and stay on track with your financial goals.
Consult a Financial Advisor: If you're unsure about which funds to invest in or how to construct your investment portfolio, consider consulting a financial advisor. They can provide personalized advice based on your financial situation and goals.
By following these tips and starting your SIP journey with discipline and patience, you can gradually build wealth over time and work towards achieving your financial objectives. Remember, every rupee invested today can make a difference in securing your financial future tomorrow.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8093 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 22, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 21, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi sir I am 24 years old I am recently starting to learn about investing and I want to start an SIP but don't know where to begin and where to invest how much to invest and I want to build a Corpus around 5 to 10 crore so that I can retire early how much should I invest and how to diverse for the portfolio between any mutual funds are any other medium to retired the age of 45
Ans: It's fantastic that you're starting to learn about investing at 24. Starting early gives you a significant advantage. Your goal to retire early with a corpus of ?5 to ?10 crore is ambitious but achievable with the right strategy. Let's explore how you can start an SIP, decide where to invest, and diversify your portfolio effectively.

Understanding Systematic Investment Plans (SIP)
What is an SIP?
A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a method of investing a fixed amount regularly in a mutual fund. This approach helps inculcate discipline, takes advantage of rupee cost averaging, and leverages the power of compounding.

Benefits of SIPs
SIPs allow you to start with a small amount, making it accessible for everyone. They provide the benefit of compounding, which means your money grows faster over time. Regular investments also reduce the risk of market volatility.

Setting Clear Financial Goals
Define Your Retirement Goal
To build a corpus of ?5 to ?10 crore by the age of 45, you need to plan meticulously. Define your goal clearly, keeping in mind factors like inflation and your future financial needs.

Determine Your Investment Amount
Deciding how much to invest monthly is crucial. You can use online SIP calculators to estimate the required monthly investment. These calculators consider expected returns and investment duration.

Choosing the Right Mutual Funds
Types of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds come in various types, such as equity, debt, and hybrid funds. Equity funds invest in stocks, debt funds in fixed-income securities, and hybrid funds in a mix of both.

Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
Actively managed funds have professional fund managers who aim to outperform market indices through research and strategic decisions. Index funds, on the other hand, simply replicate market indices and lack the advantage of professional management. For higher potential returns, actively managed funds are often preferable.

Benefits of Regular Funds Through a CFP
Opting for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides professional guidance. They help in selecting funds that align with your goals, reducing the risk of uninformed decisions. Direct funds require more time and knowledge, which can be challenging for new investors.

Diversifying Your Portfolio
Importance of Diversification
Diversification spreads your investments across different asset classes and sectors, reducing risk. A well-diversified portfolio balances potential returns and risks.

Asset Allocation Strategy
An effective asset allocation strategy involves spreading your investments across equity, debt, and hybrid funds. Young investors can allocate a higher percentage to equity funds for growth potential, while including debt funds for stability.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. This ensures your investments stay aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Steps to Start Investing in SIPs
Step 1: Choose the Right Mutual Funds
Research and select mutual funds that match your investment goals and risk appetite. Consider funds with a good track record and consistent performance.

Step 2: Determine the SIP Amount
Decide on the monthly investment amount based on your financial goal, time horizon, and current financial situation. Use SIP calculators to guide you.

Step 3: Start the SIP
Initiate the SIP through an online investment platform or with the help of a Certified Financial Planner. Set up automatic transfers to ensure regular investments without fail.

Additional Investment Options
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a safe, long-term investment option with tax benefits. It suits conservative investors and provides a fixed return over the years. Including PPF in your portfolio adds stability.

Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
If you're employed, contribute to EPF. It offers tax benefits and is a secure investment. EPF contributions accumulate over time, providing a substantial corpus upon retirement.

National Pension System (NPS)
NPS is a government-sponsored pension scheme that offers tax benefits and a mix of equity and debt exposure. It's designed to provide a steady income post-retirement.

Avoiding Common Investment Mistakes
Avoid High-Risk Investments
High-risk investments, like certain stocks or speculative ventures, can jeopardize your financial goals. Focus on stable, diversified options for long-term growth.

Avoid Unnecessary Debt
Minimise unnecessary debt. High-interest debts can eat into your savings and investments. Prioritise paying off existing debts before increasing your investment amounts.

Stay Disciplined
Staying disciplined in your investment journey is crucial. Regularly invest through SIPs, avoid impulsive financial decisions, and stick to your financial plan.

Monitoring and Reviewing Your Investments
Regular Review
Regularly review your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals. Monitor the performance of your mutual funds and make necessary adjustments.

Seek Professional Guidance
A Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable insights and help you navigate market changes. They ensure your investment strategy stays on track to meet your financial goals.

Conclusion
Starting your investment journey with SIPs at 24 is a wise decision. By defining clear financial goals, choosing the right mutual funds, and maintaining a disciplined approach, you can achieve your dream of early retirement. Diversifying your portfolio and regularly reviewing your investments are crucial steps to ensure steady growth and mitigate risks.

Your ambition to retire early with a corpus of ?5 to ?10 crore is within reach. Stay informed, stay disciplined, and seek professional guidance when needed. Your future financial independence will be the reward for the efforts you put in today.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |554 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 09, 2025Hindi
Relationship
I am a female (26), I was working as an assistant professor and then I met this guy we dated for few months and we knew that everything is compatible he has a stable business and well settled family he is earning quite good and we can spend the rest of our lives together so we moved on to tell our parents, his parents and family came to meet me and they agreed then it was my turn my mom and dad always use to say that if you have someone just tell us we are okay they said we know you are dependent enough so just tell us, I really thought it will be easy one and I told my mom and my sister over the phone and my mom asked me every detail about him and said okay we will think about it, then I told my dad about him and my dad has been super chill with me since childhood so we had a long chat about this he asked me about him just like my mom every detail then he said okay when the deepawali break will be their come home we will talk about this face to facE, I was happy that everything is nice then the vacation happened I went back home first the quarrels started when my mom addressed that they will never expected this from me they said they supported me initially because they thought at this age I will not bring anyone and will convince to arrange one, then day and night fighting started my father did the most bizzare thing he called my college and said I am ill and will not join college he faked a report(my father is a very well known doctor in my area so he has power here in our native place) and submitted their they automatically blocked me from their server I tired telling them but the most bizzare thing happened my father beat me from head to toe and threatend me that I should stop talking to him, then days turn into months and again my partner father stood up for us he called my father to talk about this and my father abused them threatened them and give false allegation on my partner came home and snatched my father later after a month he gave me my phone back as I started being a rebel, then he went to my work place without even informing me and took all my luggage and packed everything from their and came back home with everything and said you are on house arrest untill you agree to arrange marriage and forget that boy. I love him so much he does too but now because of my parents his parents are scared for their son and are denying to agree but we both are financially independent and well educated and we want to live with each other we are thinking to elope I dont know if this is right or wrong, because it has been seven months of me staying locked down in my house and my parents are forcing me verbally and physically abusing me to say yes for arrange marriage.... I dont know what to do and with whom to discuss please kindly help me out.
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.

But here’s the truth—you cannot live the rest of your life under someone else's control. You cannot sacrifice your happiness and autonomy to satisfy their misguided expectations. Love and marriage are not about caste, status, or parental approval—they are about partnership, understanding, and mutual respect. If your partner is ready to stand by you and you both are truly prepared to face the fallout together, then choosing to be with him is not wrong. You’re both adults. You’re financially independent and emotionally mature enough to know what you want from life.

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

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.

...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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