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Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |417 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Nov 11, 2025

Reetika Sharma is a certified financial planner and CEO of F-Secure Solutions.
She advises clients about investments, insurance, tax and estate planning and manages high net-worth individual’s portfolios.
Reetika has an MBA in finance from the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India (ICFAI) and an engineer degree from NIT, Jalandhar.
She also holds certifications from the Financial Planning Standards Board India (FPSB), Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).... more
Abhishek Question by Abhishek on Oct 31, 2025Hindi
Money

Hello Sir, I earn 1.24 Lakh, and have a personal loan of 28Lakh for 7 years and home loan of 20 lakh for 20 year and have kid who is 6 year , I have invested approx 3Lakh in MF, please help to share how I can manage my finances

Ans: Hi Abhishek,

You can try to prepay your personal loan slowly. Prepaying home loan is not recommended.
Use the maximum amount that you can save to invest in equity oriented mutual funds.

Please share the expenses and your savings potential for me to help you better.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/
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  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 14, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi sir, i am 28 year old, working in MNC with just salary of 50,000. I have savings of about 4 lakh. Please suggest me how should i manage by finance. My monthly expense is 15k and 10k i send at home.
Ans: I understand you're looking to manage your finances better. You're 28, working in an MNC, with a salary of Rs 50,000. You have Rs 4 lakhs in savings. Your monthly expenses are Rs 15,000, and you send Rs 10,000 home. Let's work together to create a solid financial plan for you.

Monthly Budget Analysis
First, let's break down your monthly income and expenses:

Monthly Income: Rs 50,000
Monthly Expenses: Rs 15,000
Amount Sent Home: Rs 10,000
This leaves you with Rs 25,000 every month. You have been managing your expenses well. Let's see how we can make the most of your savings and surplus income.

Building an Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is essential. It covers unexpected expenses like medical emergencies or job loss. Aim to save at least 3-6 months of your expenses.

Monthly Expenses + Amount Sent Home: Rs 25,000
Emergency Fund Target: Rs 75,000 - Rs 1,50,000
Since you already have Rs 4 lakhs in savings, allocate Rs 1 lakh for your emergency fund. Keep this money in a liquid fund or a high-interest savings account for easy access.

Managing and Growing Your Savings
With Rs 3 lakhs left after setting aside your emergency fund, let's look at some options for growing your savings. Diversifying your investments can help in achieving your financial goals.

Fixed Deposits and Recurring Deposits
Fixed Deposits (FDs) and Recurring Deposits (RDs) are safe investment options with fixed returns. They are ideal for short-term goals.

FD: Invest Rs 1 lakh in a fixed deposit for a tenure of 1-2 years. This ensures safety and liquidity.
RD: Start a recurring deposit with Rs 5,000 per month. It helps in disciplined saving and earns decent interest.
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds offer higher returns than traditional savings options. Consider a mix of equity and debt mutual funds for balanced growth and stability.

Equity Mutual Funds: Allocate Rs 1 lakh to equity mutual funds for long-term growth. Choose funds with a good track record.
Debt Mutual Funds: Invest Rs 50,000 in debt mutual funds for short to medium-term goals. They are less risky than equity funds.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
SIPs are a great way to invest regularly in mutual funds. They average out market volatility and build wealth over time.

SIP Allocation: Start a SIP of Rs 5,000 per month in a balanced mutual fund. This ensures consistent investment and capital appreciation.
Insurance: Protecting Your Finances
Having adequate insurance is crucial to protect against unforeseen events. Ensure you have both health and life insurance.

Health Insurance
Health insurance covers medical expenses, reducing financial strain during health emergencies.

Coverage Amount: Opt for a health insurance policy with a coverage of Rs 5 lakhs. It provides a good safety net.
Family Coverage: If possible, include your parents in the policy. This ensures they are also covered in case of medical emergencies.
Life Insurance
Life insurance secures your family's financial future in case of your untimely demise.

Term Insurance: Choose a term insurance policy with coverage of Rs 50 lakhs. Term insurance is affordable and provides high coverage.
Avoid ULIPs: Avoid Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) as they mix investment and insurance, often leading to higher costs and lower returns.
Tax Planning: Maximizing Your Savings
Effective tax planning helps in maximizing your savings and investments. Utilize available tax deductions and exemptions.

Section 80C Deductions
Investments under Section 80C help in reducing taxable income. The maximum limit is Rs 1.5 lakhs.

Public Provident Fund (PPF): Invest Rs 50,000 in PPF. It offers tax-free returns and long-term growth.
ELSS Funds: Allocate Rs 50,000 in Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) mutual funds. They provide tax benefits and potential high returns.
Employee Provident Fund (EPF): Your EPF contributions are also eligible for Section 80C deductions. Ensure to check your EPF balance and contributions.
Health Insurance Premiums
Premiums paid for health insurance are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80D.

Self and Family: Claim up to Rs 25,000 for premiums paid for yourself, spouse, and children.
Parents: If you pay for your parents' health insurance, claim an additional Rs 25,000. If they are senior citizens, this limit increases to Rs 50,000.
Financial Goals and Planning
Identify and prioritize your financial goals. This helps in creating a focused and efficient investment plan.

Short-Term Goals
Short-term goals are those you aim to achieve within 1-3 years.

Emergency Fund: As discussed, ensure your emergency fund is well-maintained.
Travel Fund: If you plan to travel, start a dedicated fund. Allocate a part of your savings for this goal.
Medium-Term Goals
Medium-term goals are those you plan to achieve within 3-5 years.

Higher Education: If you plan to pursue higher education, start saving now. Consider education loans if needed.
Buying a Vehicle: If you intend to buy a car or bike, start a dedicated fund. Allocate Rs 1 lakh towards this goal.
Long-Term Goals
Long-term goals are those you plan to achieve in 5+ years.

Retirement Planning: Start saving for retirement early. The power of compounding works best over long periods.
House Purchase: If you plan to buy a house, start saving for the down payment. Allocate Rs 1 lakh towards this goal.
Monitoring and Reviewing Your Financial Plan
Regularly review your financial plan to ensure it stays aligned with your goals. Adjust your investments based on changes in your income, expenses, and financial goals.

Monthly Budget Review
Track your income and expenses every month. Ensure you are sticking to your budget and making necessary adjustments.

Investment Portfolio Review
Review your investment portfolio every six months. Assess the performance of your investments and make changes if needed.

Insurance Policy Review
Review your insurance policies annually. Ensure your coverage is adequate and update your policies as required.

Seeking Professional Advice
Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide valuable insights and personalized advice. A CFP can help you create a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Benefits of Consulting a CFP
Customized Advice: Get advice that matches your unique financial situation and goals.
Holistic Planning: A CFP considers all aspects of your finances, ensuring a well-rounded plan.
Expert Guidance: With their expertise, CFPs help you make informed decisions, optimizing your financial planning.
Final Insights
Managing your finances effectively involves careful planning and disciplined execution. By building an emergency fund, growing your savings through diversified investments, ensuring adequate insurance coverage, and maximizing tax savings, you can achieve financial stability and growth.

Regularly review and adjust your financial plan to stay aligned with your goals. Seek professional advice if needed to ensure your financial strategy is robust and efficient. With these steps, you can secure your financial future and achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 27, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi I am 29 years old unmarried, earning 90 per month(77 in hand), fixed expense 20k per month. I have sip 25000 per month,I don't have any loans as of now. I have fd of 9.5 lakh,2 lakhs in savings and 4 lakhs lended to someone, mutual fund investment of 12.5 lakhs(including profit) and stock portfolio of 7 lakhs(including profit) ,I have 1 lakh in PPF and 3 lakhs in PF as well.Kindly suggest how can i manage my finance to reach a amount of 1 cr till I am 45 years old. Mutual funds I am investing are- 1- quant else tax saver 2- parag parekh flexi cap 3- HDFC midcap opportunities direct 4- ICICI prudential Bharat 22 ETF 5- quant absolute direct growth 6 - SBI small cap(1k) 7- Quant small cap (2k)
Ans: You’re doing great at 29 with your savings and investments! Let’s see how you can achieve your goal of Rs. 1 crore by the age of 45.

Current Financial Overview
You have a monthly income of Rs. 90,000 and take home Rs. 77,000. Your fixed expenses are Rs. 20,000 per month. Your investments include:

Rs. 9.5 lakhs in Fixed Deposits
Rs. 2 lakhs in Savings
Rs. 4 lakhs lent to someone
Rs. 12.5 lakhs in Mutual Funds
Rs. 7 lakhs in Stocks
Rs. 1 lakh in PPF
Rs. 3 lakhs in PF
You also have a monthly SIP of Rs. 25,000. Your mutual fund investments include a mix of tax saver, flexi cap, midcap, ETF, and small cap funds.

Goals and Planning
Setting a Clear Target
You aim to reach Rs. 1 crore by 45. That’s 16 years from now. Your current investments are well-placed. Now, let’s strategize to ensure you meet your goal.

Investment Strategy
Increase SIP Contribution
Currently, you’re investing Rs. 25,000 per month in SIPs. This is excellent. But increasing your SIP gradually will help you reach your goal faster. Consider increasing your SIP by 10% each year. This will leverage the power of compounding.

For instance, if you start with a SIP of Rs. 25,000 and increase it by 10% annually, it will significantly boost your corpus over the years. The power of compounding means your returns will generate more returns, accelerating your wealth growth.

Review and Optimize Portfolio
Your mutual funds include a good mix. However, it's important to review your portfolio annually. Check the performance of each fund. If any fund underperforms for more than 3 years, consider switching.

Emergency Fund
Maintain Liquidity
Keep 6 months of expenses as an emergency fund. You have Rs. 2 lakhs in savings, which is good. Ensure this fund is easily accessible. You can use a combination of savings accounts and liquid funds. This ensures you have funds available for unexpected expenses without having to liquidate your investments.

Fixed Deposits and Debt Investments
Utilize Fixed Deposits Wisely
You have Rs. 9.5 lakhs in FDs. FDs are low-risk but offer lower returns. Consider using part of this amount to increase your SIPs or invest in higher-return options like debt funds.

Debt funds can offer better returns than FDs while still being relatively low-risk. They invest in bonds and other fixed-income securities, providing a balance of safety and returns.

Stock Investments
Diversify and Monitor
You have Rs. 7 lakhs in stocks. Stock investments are high-risk, high-return. Ensure you diversify across different sectors. Regularly monitor and review your stock portfolio. Avoid putting all eggs in one basket.

Diversification reduces risk. If one sector underperforms, others may perform well, balancing your overall returns. Regular monitoring helps you stay updated on market trends and make timely adjustments.

PPF and PF Contributions
Long-Term Stability
You have Rs. 1 lakh in PPF and Rs. 3 lakhs in PF. These are great for long-term stability and tax benefits. Continue contributing to these regularly. PPF matures in 15 years, aligning well with your goal.

PPF and PF provide guaranteed returns and tax benefits. They are excellent for long-term financial security and should be a core part of your investment strategy.

Lending and Recovering Funds
Ensure Safety
You have Rs. 4 lakhs lent to someone. Make sure to recover this amount in time. Consider the safety and reliability of the borrower. Use this money to invest further once recovered.

Lending money can be risky. Ensure you have proper agreements in place and track repayment. Once recovered, reinvest it to generate returns.

Additional Investments and Insurance
Health and Life Insurance
Ensure you have adequate health insurance. Life insurance is crucial too, especially once you have dependents. Consider term insurance for adequate coverage.

Adequate insurance protects you and your family from financial distress in case of medical emergencies or untimely demise. Term insurance is cost-effective and provides substantial coverage.

Building Retirement Corpus and Child Education Fund
Power of Compounding
Mutual funds are excellent for building a retirement corpus. The power of compounding works wonders over long periods. Start early, invest regularly, and stay invested. This helps in growing wealth significantly.

Mutual funds, especially equity funds, have the potential for high returns over the long term. Compounding means you earn returns on your returns, exponentially growing your wealth.

Mutual Funds vs. Direct Stocks
Mutual funds offer diversification, professional management, and lower risk compared to direct stocks. They are suitable for investors who prefer a hands-off approach. Direct stocks require active management and market knowledge. Mutual funds are more consistent for long-term goals.

Direct stocks can provide high returns but require market knowledge and time to manage. Mutual funds, managed by professionals, offer diversification and consistent returns, making them suitable for most investors.

Regular Review and Adjustment
Annual Review
Review your financial plan annually. Adjust SIPs, check fund performance, and rebalance your portfolio. Stay informed about market trends and economic changes. Adjust your strategy as needed.

Regular reviews ensure your investments are aligned with your goals. Rebalancing helps maintain the desired asset allocation, reducing risk and optimizing returns.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
Professional Management
Mutual funds are managed by experienced fund managers who make informed investment decisions. This professional expertise can lead to better returns compared to individual stock investments.

Diversification
Mutual funds invest in a variety of securities, spreading risk. Diversification reduces the impact of poor performance by any single investment.

Systematic Investment
Mutual funds allow systematic investment plans (SIPs), enabling disciplined investing. SIPs help in averaging the cost of investments and reduce market timing risk.

Liquidity
Mutual funds offer high liquidity. You can redeem your investments anytime, providing flexibility in managing your funds.

Tax Efficiency
Equity mutual funds are tax-efficient, offering benefits like long-term capital gains tax exemption up to a certain limit. ELSS funds provide tax deductions under Section 80C.

Final Insights
Planning your finances to achieve Rs. 1 crore by 45 is attainable with disciplined investing and regular reviews. Ensure you maintain a diversified portfolio, leverage the power of compounding, and keep your goals in focus. Stay consistent with your investments, and increase contributions gradually. Remember, financial planning is a dynamic process. Regular reviews and adjustments are key to staying on track. Your current financial habits are commendable, and with these strategies, you’re well on your way to achieving your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 16, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 16, 2025
Money
I am 30 year old. My current in hand salary is 60k and additional 18k once in quarter. I have a home loan of 25 lac with monthly EMI of 18257 and have borrowed 11 lac from brother -in-law and paying 23k every month to him as well. Please help me how should I start with investment in MF and manage my financial to gain stability
Ans: You have taken some responsible steps already. Owning a house at 30 is a big milestone. It shows commitment and maturity. You also show discipline by repaying your brother-in-law regularly. Let us now take a 360-degree view of your financial life. The goal is to build stability and begin investing in mutual funds wisely.

Here is a detailed and structured plan for you.

 
 
 

Income and Cash Flow Assessment
Your in-hand monthly salary is Rs. 60,000. Quarterly, you get Rs. 18,000 extra.

 
 
 

That works out to around Rs. 65,000 per month on average.

 
 
 

You are paying Rs. 18,257 for your home loan.

 
 
 

You also pay Rs. 23,000 to your brother-in-law monthly.

 
 
 

Together, your monthly loan outgo is Rs. 41,257.

 
 
 

You are left with around Rs. 23,000 per month for all expenses and savings.

 
 
 

At this stage, the cash flow is tight. But not unmanageable.

 
 
 

Focus is now on smart budgeting, not just saving.

 
 
 

Let’s now plan to slowly move towards surplus creation.

 
 
 

Household Budget Rebalancing
Start with tracking every rupee you spend for three months.

 
 
 

Use simple notebooks or mobile apps for this.

 
 
 

Identify 2–3 non-essential spending areas.

 
 
 

Cut those expenses gradually.

 
 
 

Target to reduce monthly spends by Rs. 4,000–5,000.

 
 
 

This will help create investment capacity.

 
 
 

You can then begin your mutual fund journey smoothly.

 
 
 

Loan Repayment Priority Strategy
Between the two loans, your brother-in-law’s loan is priority.

 
 
 

It is not interest-based but emotionally important.

 
 
 

Keep paying him Rs. 23,000 consistently.

 
 
 

Do not reduce this until fully repaid.

 
 
 

After it is cleared, redirect this EMI into investments.

 
 
 

That Rs. 23,000 will become your wealth engine.

 
 
 

You may consider prepaying home loan slowly after that.

 
 
 

But don’t rush. Use part for investment too.

 
 
 

Emergency Fund First
Before any investments, set aside safety fund.

 
 
 

You must build emergency savings of at least Rs. 40,000.

 
 
 

Start by saving Rs. 3,000 per month till you reach that.

 
 
 

Keep this in a bank RD or sweep-in FD.

 
 
 

Do not touch this unless it’s truly urgent.

 
 
 

This will help you avoid personal loans or credit card debt.

 
 
 

Health and Life Cover
If not already covered, get a Rs. 5 lakh health cover.

 
 
 

Choose a family floater policy if married.

 
 
 

Buy from reputed insurer with good claim ratio.

 
 
 

Premium will be around Rs. 500 per month.

 
 
 

Also check if you have life insurance.

 
 
 

If not, get a term plan of Rs. 50 lakh.

 
 
 

Cost will be around Rs. 500 to Rs. 800 per month.

 
 
 

Avoid any ULIP or money-back plans.

 
 
 

Beginning Mutual Fund Investment
Start SIPs only after emergency fund and basic covers.

 
 
 

Target SIP of Rs. 2,000–3,000 per month to begin.

 
 
 

As your brother-in-law loan ends, increase SIP step-by-step.

 
 
 

Prefer well-managed active mutual funds.

 
 
 

Actively managed funds have professional fund managers.

 
 
 

They can outperform markets with expertise.

 
 
 

Index funds only mimic the market.

 
 
 

They do not react to changing trends.

 
 
 

This leads to limited alpha generation.

 
 
 

Actively managed funds offer better risk management.

 
 
 

Work with a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP credentials.

 
 
 

They bring personalisation and regular review to your portfolio.

 
 
 

Direct mutual funds don’t offer this guidance.

 
 
 

Direct route also needs your time and market knowledge.

 
 
 

For salaried investors like you, guided support helps.

 
 
 

Your focus should be on building consistent long-term wealth.

 
 
 

Suggested Investment Allocation Once Loan Ends
Once brother-in-law loan is cleared, use that Rs. 23,000 well.

 
 
 

Split it into: Rs. 3,000 emergency fund, Rs. 2,000 insurance, Rs. 18,000 SIPs.

 
 
 

This will create strong financial muscle over time.

 
 
 

Avoid putting all in one type of fund.

 
 
 

Use a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap and hybrid funds.

 
 
 

Let a CFP-backed advisor design your fund mix.

 
 
 

Do not chase returns or trends.

 
 
 

Stay invested through ups and downs.

 
 
 

Review your SIPs yearly.

 
 
 

Increase them whenever your salary rises.

 
 
 

Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Do not take personal loans for investing.

 
 
 

Avoid credit card debt at all costs.

 
 
 

Do not try to time the market.

 
 
 

Avoid chit funds or unregulated schemes.

 
 
 

Avoid investing in schemes without proper reading.

 
 
 

Do not buy mutual funds from banks.

 
 
 

Bank executives sell based on their targets.

 
 
 

Always check if your advisor is a CFP.

 
 
 

Goal Setting Approach
Have clear goals before investing.

 
 
 

Are you saving for child, retirement, or wealth creation?

 
 
 

Write them down. Assign rough timelines.

 
 
 

This will help you choose right fund categories.

 
 
 

Having goals keeps you motivated to invest.

 
 
 

Stay away from FOMO-based investments.

 
 
 

Let your goals guide you, not markets.

 
 
 

Tax Consideration and Smart Planning
Use SIPs in equity mutual funds for tax efficiency.

 
 
 

Gains after one year are long-term capital gains.

 
 
 

You get exemption up to Rs. 1.25 lakh per year.

 
 
 

Beyond that, gains are taxed at 12.5%.

 
 
 

If redeemed before a year, STCG is taxed at 20%.

 
 
 

Don’t withdraw unless needed. Let compounding work.

 
 
 

Plan redemptions around goals to save tax.

 
 
 

Finally
You are in a decent position for your age.

 
 
 

Focus on clearing the family loan first.

 
 
 

Start slow and steady with SIPs.

 
 
 

Build emergency savings for confidence.

 
 
 

Protect yourself with health and term covers.

 
 
 

Work with a Mutual Fund Distributor having CFP qualification.

 
 
 

Avoid index funds and direct mutual fund route.

 
 
 

Keep your investments simple and long-term focused.

 
 
 

Avoid real estate or exotic products at this stage.

 
 
 

Regular saving with guidance will lead to stability.

 
 
 

You have already made smart choices. Now sharpen them.

 
 
 

Stay consistent and review yearly. You will see great results.

 
 
 

Best Regards,
 
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 Jun 21, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 11, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir I am 37 year old. Working in IT from 13 years. Recently, i have taken personal loan and paying 19k monthly for 6 years. Also taken home loan of 52 lakh and paying an emi 47k. My take home salary is 1.25L. i have ppf running from 8 years with 8 lakhs and also pf of 7 lakh. Recently i have paid 13 lakh of my savings to purchase home. Present holding 3 lakh amount for safer side and depend on monthly take home. I am having a plot which is worth 13 lakh. I don't use credit card and no other loan apart from mentioned above. Have a son 6 year old. Kindly help me in managing the loans with the given details parallel to financial safety and growth to maintain family future
Ans: You are 37 years old.
You have served 13 years in IT. A very stable profile.
You support a family with a 6-year-old child.

Your current income and loans must be carefully balanced.
Let me assess your complete situation.
We will evaluate from a 360-degree perspective — income, debt, savings, safety, and growth.

Understanding Your Current Financial Snapshot
Here is your present financial picture:

Monthly take-home salary: Rs. 1.25 lakh

Home loan EMI: Rs. 47,000

Personal loan EMI: Rs. 19,000

Emergency fund available: Rs. 3 lakhs

PPF corpus: Rs. 8 lakhs

EPF corpus: Rs. 7 lakhs

Plot worth: Rs. 13 lakhs

No credit card dues

No other debts

Your monthly loan commitment is Rs. 66,000.
You are left with Rs. 59,000 for all family expenses and investments.

Current Strengths in Your Finances
Let’s appreciate what you’ve done right:

You have a running PPF account with good corpus

You have built a solid EPF balance

You avoid credit cards – very disciplined

You maintain Rs. 3 lakh as emergency reserve

You hold real estate worth Rs. 13 lakh

You have invested Rs. 13 lakh for your home purchase

You continue repaying loans without delay

You are very sincere and focused. That is a strong base to build on.

Stress Caused by Current Loan Situation
Your current EMI burden is Rs. 66,000 every month.
That is 53% of your monthly income.
This is quite high. It restricts savings.
And it creates emotional and financial pressure.

There is a risk:

You may not save much for retirement

You may struggle during emergencies

You may not save enough for child’s education

Any job break can cause stress

Let’s solve this with a 3-part plan:
Control debt, protect family, and build wealth slowly.

How to Manage the Personal Loan
Personal loan is the first priority to reduce.

You are paying Rs. 19,000 for 6 years

That’s Rs. 13.6 lakhs total outgoing

It is not tax-saving like home loan

Interest is high and return is zero

Suggested steps:

Start a separate saving of Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 8,000 per month

Create a small loan-prepayment fund

Use annual bonus, incentives, and gifts to reduce personal loan

Target to close it in 3 years, not 6

Don’t invest in equity till this is done

Every prepayment you make reduces pressure.
Don’t pause this step.

Managing the Home Loan Wisely
Home loan of Rs. 52 lakhs is large.
EMI of Rs. 47,000 is a long-term outgo.

But it gives:

Tax benefits on interest and principal

Ownership of a home

Emotional peace and stability

Do not try to close it early now.
Focus only on reducing personal loan.

But make sure:

You opt for lowest interest rate possible

You use surplus from salary hike or bonus to reduce principal

You avoid any top-up loans or extensions

You never delay EMI even by one day

For home loan, stability is more important than speed.

Role of Your Emergency Fund
You have Rs. 3 lakhs as reserve fund.
That is a very positive step.

But keep in mind:

It must cover 5 to 6 months of expenses

Include EMI and school fees also

Don’t use it for any investment

Don’t use it to prepay loans now

Keep it in liquid FD or liquid mutual fund

This will protect your family during a job gap or medical issue.

Review of PPF and EPF Balances
PPF – Rs. 8 lakhs and growing
EPF – Rs. 7 lakhs

Together, you have Rs. 15 lakhs in secure government savings.
Very good for long-term safety.

They provide:

Stable tax-free returns

Retirement cushion

No risk of capital loss

Compounding over time

But don't depend only on PPF or EPF for wealth creation.
They will not beat inflation always.

Real Estate Holding (Plot)
You own a plot worth Rs. 13 lakhs.
It is not giving monthly income.
Also not helping in child’s education or loan clearance.

What can you do?

Keep it aside as passive wealth

Don’t sell in hurry

But don’t buy more plots or flats now

Avoid locking more funds into land

Use mutual funds to create real wealth.
Real estate may not support your retirement goals.

Budgeting for Monthly Family Expenses
From Rs. 1.25 lakh:

Rs. 66,000 is EMI

Rs. 40,000 can be family expenses

Rs. 3,000 for term and health insurance

Rs. 5,000–6,000 savings for personal loan prepayment

Remaining should go into low-risk savings

Avoid overspending now.
Avoid lifestyle inflation.

Don’t take new subscriptions or big gadgets.
Every rupee saved today protects your future.

Must-Have Protection for Family
Insurance is not mentioned in your details.
Please make sure you have:

Term insurance of at least Rs. 50–75 lakhs

Family floater health insurance of Rs. 10–25 lakhs

Accidental disability cover if possible

Term insurance for your spouse if she earns

These are more important than investments now.
They protect all other plans.

How to Start Investment for Child and Future Goals
Once personal loan is closed, you will get Rs. 19,000 monthly free.
That can be used for:

Mutual fund SIPs

Sukanya Samriddhi for girl child (if applicable)

Hybrid fund for school fees planning

Equity fund for college or retirement

Till that time:

Start Rs. 1,000–2,000 small SIP in balanced fund

Continue PPF contribution

Keep Rs. 2,000 aside for yearly premium of term insurance

Even small steps matter.

Avoid These Mistakes
Don’t start new SIPs before controlling personal loan

Don’t invest lump sum in equity

Don’t use credit cards

Don’t buy ULIP or endowment insurance

Don’t increase home loan for renovations

Also avoid index funds. They are passive.
They don’t beat inflation alone.
No active strategy, no downside control.

Prefer actively managed funds guided by Certified Financial Planner.

Why Direct Mutual Funds Are Risky
Direct funds don’t have support.
You may face these issues:

Wrong scheme selection

Emotional exit during market fall

No rebalancing or risk alignment

No retirement-linked strategy

Instead use regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner.
They will:

Help you with goal mapping

Review the plan yearly

Adjust portfolio as life changes

Offer behaviour guidance during tough times

That service brings peace and discipline.

Roadmap for the Next 5 Years
Here’s your clear path:

Year 1–3: Focus only on personal loan reduction

Keep saving Rs. 6,000–8,000 monthly

No equity investments till personal loan ends

Protect family with term and health cover

Review emergency fund yearly

Year 4–5: Start Rs. 15,000–20,000 SIP in equity and hybrid funds

Use regular funds via Certified Financial Planner

Start goal-specific investments (child education and retirement)

Don’t sell the plot unless needed

By 42, you will have:

No personal loan

Stronger monthly surplus

Investment habits

Family protection

Foundation for wealth creation

Finally
You are a responsible person.
You have protected your family by avoiding credit traps.
You have good savings in PPF and EPF.
You manage your EMI without failure.

Now go one step ahead.
Take control of loans.
Focus on protection and then investment.
Avoid mixing insurance and investment.
Avoid real estate for now.
Build with mutual funds guided by a Certified Financial Planner.

This step-by-step plan will give you strength, safety and growth.
Your family’s future will stay protected and well-planned.

Best Regards,
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 Jun 20, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir I am 37 year old. Working in IT from 13 years. Recently, i have taken personal loan and paying 19k monthly for 6 years. Also taken home loan of 52 lakh and paying an emi 47k. My take home salary is 1.25L. i have ppf running from 8 years with 8 lakhs and also pf of 7 lakh. Recently i have paid 13 lakh of my savings to purchase home. Present holding 3 lakh amount for safer side and depend on monthly take home. I am having a plot which is worth 13 lakh. I don't use credit card and no other loan apart from mentioned above. Have a son 6 year old. Kindly help me in managing the loans with the given details parallel to financial safety and growth to maintain family future
Ans: You are 37 years old, with over a decade in IT. You are responsible, debt-aware, and family-focused. With home and personal loans, a young child, and limited liquidity, managing your finances now becomes more strategic than ever. Let’s explore your financial journey from a 360-degree view. This will help you repay loans steadily, stay financially secure, and build a better future.

Emergency Fund and Immediate Safety
You are currently maintaining Rs 3 lakhs in cash for emergencies.

This is a good beginning, but not fully sufficient.

Ideally, your emergency fund should be 5 to 6 months of total monthly expenses.

This includes EMIs, home needs, school fees, medical, and unplanned expenses.

Right now, your combined EMI burden is Rs 66,000 monthly.

Your total expenses are probably Rs 90,000–1,00,000 monthly.

So your ideal emergency fund should be Rs 5–6 lakhs.

You can gradually build this in 6 months.

Avoid putting emergency money in savings account.

Instead, use liquid mutual funds or ultra-short debt funds for better returns.

This ensures liquidity and safety without market risk.

Build this fund as priority before any other investment.

Smart Loan Strategy: Personal Loan First, Then Home Loan
You are paying Rs 19,000 per month for personal loan.

This loan will run for the next 6 years.

You are also paying Rs 47,000 as home loan EMI.

Your total EMI burden is Rs 66,000 each month.

Personal loan usually has higher interest than home loan.

So, focus on clearing personal loan first.

If you get bonuses or salary hikes, use them to part-pay this loan.

Once the personal loan ends, you will save Rs 19,000 monthly.

Redirect this amount to home loan prepayment or investments.

Do not increase lifestyle expenses when the personal loan ends.

Prepaying home loan after personal loan saves interest and gives peace of mind.

Avoid missing any EMI, and maintain a healthy credit score.

Use auto-debit to avoid delays in repayment.

Your Home Purchase: Big Step, Now Manage Wisely
You recently used Rs 13 lakhs from your savings to buy a home.

This was a big and bold step.

Ensure you stay within budget now.

Avoid further loans or purchases that increase your EMI.

Track all home-related expenses strictly.

Avoid using credit cards to furnish or improve the home.

Do not fall into the trap of "I own a home, so I can splurge."

Keep your lifestyle in check for next 5–6 years.

This will help reduce stress and improve savings rate.

Plot Valued at Rs 13 Lakhs: Use With Purpose
You own a plot worth Rs 13 lakhs.

You are not using it currently.

Think carefully whether to retain or sell.

If you hold, it may appreciate over the next 10–15 years.

But it does not give regular income.

Also, you are paying high EMIs now.

Selling the plot can allow you to prepay the personal loan fully.

Or you can reduce the home loan EMI burden by a large amount.

Another option is to split the proceeds: use some for loan and rest for investing.

Do not rush into selling the plot.

Evaluate market rates, legal status, and long-term needs.

If you sell, invest the amount wisely in safe and growth-focused products.

Avoid putting this amount into a bank account.

Consult with a Certified Financial Planner before you take this call.

PPF and PF: Solid Foundation, Continue With Discipline
You have Rs 8 lakhs in PPF.

This is an excellent long-term savings tool.

Continue contributing Rs 1.5 lakh per year to get full benefit.

PPF has no tax at withdrawal.

Also, you have Rs 7 lakhs in EPF.

This is also building up steadily through your salary.

Together, these can form your debt side of retirement savings.

Do not touch this amount for any emergency or goal.

Allow them to compound till you retire.

You can increase your VPF contribution gradually once loans reduce.

This helps build more tax-free retirement savings.

Start Goal-Based SIPs Slowly, Grow Over Time
You said you are not currently investing in mutual funds.

This is understandable, since you are focused on EMI.

But over time, you need equity exposure to beat inflation.

Start a small SIP of Rs 3,000–5,000 per month.

You can increase this once personal loan ends.

Later, once your home loan is cleared, SIPs can go up to Rs 25,000–30,000 monthly.

SIP helps you invest monthly in small steps.

Use active mutual funds, not index or direct plans.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner give guidance and review.

Avoid investing in index funds.

They lack human judgement and cannot protect against market fall.

Also, avoid direct plans as they miss expert tracking.

You need professional help to plan exits, rebalance, and avoid poor fund selection.

Choose well-diversified flexi-cap and hybrid funds.

Review them every 6 months with your planner.

Stay invested for minimum 10–15 years.

Do not stop SIPs during market fall.

This discipline builds wealth and helps meet goals.

Planning for Your Child's Future
Your son is 6 years old now.

You need to plan for two goals: higher education and marriage.

Education will need money from age 18 to 24.

Marriage may be needed around age 28.

Start with a SIP of Rs 3,000–5,000 monthly in equity mutual funds.

Later, add lump sum or increase SIP when loans reduce.

You can create a separate folio just for his education.

From age 14, slowly shift to hybrid or debt funds to protect capital.

Marriage planning can remain in equity longer.

Avoid mixing this goal with your retirement savings.

Insurance Protection for the Family
You have not mentioned life or health insurance.

This is a must-have.

Buy term insurance of at least Rs 1 crore immediately.

Premium is low at your age.

Take a separate term plan, not ULIP or endowment.

Avoid LIC or savings-based insurance plans.

Your family depends on your income.

Insurance gives them security if something happens.

Also buy health insurance of at least Rs 10 lakh for family.

This covers major hospitalisation costs.

Even if employer provides it, take a personal plan.

You can also add critical illness rider.

Premiums paid give tax benefit under 80D.

If you already hold ULIP or LIC, consider surrendering them and reinvesting.

Mutual funds give better growth and flexibility.

Future Plan for Wealth Creation
Let’s break down your future plan in simple steps:

For next 6 years, focus on:

Maintaining emergency fund of Rs 5–6 lakhs

Repaying personal loan faster with bonuses or plot proceeds

Starting small SIPs for son and retirement

After 6 years:

Personal loan ends, saving Rs 19,000

Redirect this to mutual fund SIPs and home loan prepayment

By year 10:

Try to clear home loan or reduce tenure

Your total EMI will be zero

You can start investing Rs 66,000+ every month

This builds large wealth for retirement

By age 50:

Have clear separation between education fund and retirement fund

Have insurance, emergency fund, and investments working smoothly

Avoid real estate and focus on liquid, growth-oriented financial assets

Finally
You are doing many things right.

No unnecessary credit.

No impulsive spending.

You invested in a home with your savings.

You have PPF, PF, and some cash buffer.

Now the next steps are simple but important.

Build emergency fund more.

Kill personal loan faster.

Start SIP, however small.

Buy term and health insurance now.

Sell plot only if that helps your loan reduction.

Avoid real estate investment again.

Use mutual funds through Certified Financial Planner.

Do not choose direct or index funds.

Focus on child education goal.

Be disciplined for 10–15 years.

The result will be peaceful life and secure future.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

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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