Late bloomer with big dreams: How to build a 30 crore retirement fund starting at 36?

Ans: Planning for a Rs 30 crore corpus is a bold and visionary goal. This shows your ambition for a financially secure retirement. To achieve this, disciplined planning and consistent action will be essential.

Three factors will influence your success:

Time available for investment (24 years from age 36 to 60).

Your investment strategy and allocation.

Rate of return on your investments.

It is also commendable that you are starting to plan early. This provides a clear advantage.

Importance of Starting Early
Starting early offers compounding benefits. The earlier you invest, the longer your money grows. Although you plan to start at 36, preparing now will help you save more efficiently.

While you're pursuing studies, focus on financial knowledge. Learn about wealth creation and disciplined investing.

Understanding Your Current Situation
Your current financial status includes:

No savings or investments yet.

Time to complete higher studies.

A six-year gap before beginning savings.

This situation calls for structured financial planning starting immediately.

Suggested Steps to Prepare
Step 1: Gain Financial Knowledge

Learn about mutual funds, equity, debt instruments, and other investment options.
Understand risk and reward in different financial instruments.
Step 2: Estimate Your Monthly Investment Needs

Begin calculating how much you will need to save monthly from age 36.
Factor in inflation, expected returns, and the goal amount of Rs 30 crore.
Step 3: Enhance Your Earning Potential

Focus on career advancement to increase your income post studies.
Higher earnings will help you save and invest more aggressively.
Step 4: Build Financial Discipline Early

Even before age 36, aim to save small amounts from any available income.
Practice setting aside a fixed percentage of income for future investment.
Action Plan at Age 36
Once you start earning, follow a focused investment strategy. A diversified portfolio can maximise returns and manage risks.

Prioritising Mutual Fund Investments
Mutual funds offer flexibility, professional management, and growth potential.

Actively managed funds can outperform index funds. Experienced fund managers aim for higher returns.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Direct funds may lack guidance for new investors.

A Certified Financial Planner can help optimise returns through regular funds.

Regular funds through MFDs come with expert advice and periodic review.

Diversified Asset Allocation
Allocate funds between equity, debt, and gold based on risk tolerance.

Higher equity allocation in early years can boost growth.

Gradually shift towards safer instruments as you approach retirement.

Tax Efficiency in Investments
Keep the new mutual fund capital gains taxation rules in mind.

Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

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

Plan investments in a way to minimise tax liability and maximise returns.

Building Contingency and Insurance
Before starting investments:

Build a contingency fund of 6-12 months' expenses.

Secure health and life insurance for family protection.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Periodically review your investment portfolio.

Rebalance asset allocation to match changing goals and market conditions.

Consult your Certified Financial Planner regularly for updates.

Final Insights
Achieving a Rs 30 crore retirement corpus is possible with determination. Begin with structured planning and financial discipline. Post-36, invest systematically and review your progress regularly.

The journey may seem challenging but is highly rewarding. Your foresight and commitment will ensure financial independence in retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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