NRI with 75 lakhs seeks investment advice after resignation

Hello Sir I am NRI staying outside India for over a decade. I was working with an Indian firm who send me on an assignment to US. I continued to work with the firm for a decade and recently resigned. As a result I am expecting a sum of around 75 lacs amount as part of retiral benefits. The amount will be deposited to my NRO account. I want to know what are good options to invest this amount given the limitations around NRIs investing in stock markets especially Mutual Funds. Kindly advise

Ans: You are an NRI who worked with an Indian firm for a decade and recently resigned.

You are expecting around Rs 75 lakhs as part of retiral benefits.

This amount will be deposited into your NRO account.

Investment Options for NRIs
Fixed Deposits (FDs)
Bank Fixed Deposits: NRIs can invest in NRO fixed deposits. They offer safety and stable returns.

Corporate FDs: Consider corporate FDs for higher interest rates. They come with slightly higher risk.

Debt Mutual Funds
Access and Benefits: NRIs can invest in debt mutual funds. They provide stability and tax efficiency.

Short-Term and Long-Term Funds: Choose a mix of short-term and long-term debt funds to balance risk and return.

Equity Mutual Funds
Mutual Fund Investments: NRIs can invest in equity mutual funds. Check the specific guidelines of mutual fund houses regarding NRI investments.

Diversification: Opt for diversified equity funds. They reduce risk and provide good growth potential.

Portfolio Management Services (PMS)
Professional Management: Consider PMS for professional management of your investments. They offer personalized investment strategies.

Higher Minimum Investment: PMS typically requires a higher minimum investment. It might be suitable for your Rs 75 lakhs corpus.

Real Estate
Long-Term Growth: Invest in real estate for long-term growth. It offers capital appreciation and rental income.

Diversification: Diversify across different types of properties and locations.

NPS (National Pension System)
Retirement Savings: NPS is open to NRIs and provides a good retirement savings option. It offers equity exposure and tax benefits.
Tax Considerations
Tax on NRO Account: Interest earned on NRO accounts is subject to TDS at 30%. Plan your investments considering this.

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): Check if your country of residence has a DTAA with India to avoid double taxation.

Suggested Investment Plan
Immediate Allocation
Emergency Fund: Allocate Rs 10 lakhs to a liquid fund or short-term FD for emergency purposes.

Debt Mutual Funds: Invest Rs 20 lakhs in debt mutual funds for stability and regular returns.

Equity Mutual Funds: Allocate Rs 25 lakhs to diversified equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

Real Estate: Consider investing Rs 10 lakhs in real estate for long-term appreciation.

NPS: Allocate Rs 5 lakhs to NPS for retirement savings and tax benefits.

Regular Review
Annual Review: Review your portfolio annually. Adjust investments based on performance and changing financial goals.
Final Insights
As an NRI, you have several good investment options despite the limitations. A mix of fixed deposits, debt and equity mutual funds, real estate, and NPS can provide a balanced portfolio. Regularly review your investments and consider tax implications to optimize your returns.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: Let's go through a detailed plan to help you find the best investment options to secure a steady monthly income, similar to a pension. I understand your goal and will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide.

Understanding Your Financial Needs
First, let's understand your financial situation and goals:

Age: 57 years old
Retirement: Already retired, seeking monthly income
Goal: Secure a steady monthly income similar to a pension

Returning to India after years of hard work in the Middle East is a significant milestone. It shows your dedication and commitment to securing a better future. Let's ensure that your efforts translate into a comfortable and worry-free retirement.

Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
Let's evaluate your current financial standing. It's essential to know your existing assets, savings, and any other income sources. Please note, specific schemes and detailed calculations are avoided as per your request.

Key Areas to Focus On
Safe and Reliable Investment Options
Diversification of Investments
Creating a Steady Monthly Income Stream
Mitigating Risks
Tax Efficiency
Safe and Reliable Investment Options
Monthly Income Plans (MIPs)
Monthly Income Plans are mutual fund schemes designed to provide regular income. They invest in both equity and debt instruments. MIPs offer better returns than traditional fixed-income options and are less risky than pure equity funds.

Fixed Deposits (FDs)
Bank FDs are a traditional choice for generating a steady income. They are safe and offer guaranteed returns. You can opt for monthly interest payouts to create a regular income stream.

Senior Citizens' Saving Scheme (SCSS)
SCSS is specifically designed for senior citizens. It offers attractive interest rates, and you can receive quarterly interest payments. This scheme is backed by the government, ensuring safety.

Diversification of Investments
Diversified Portfolio
Diversifying your investments across different asset classes can reduce risk and provide a stable income. Consider a mix of equities, debt, and other instruments.

Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds invest in fixed-income securities. They are less volatile than equity funds and provide regular income. Opt for funds with monthly dividend payout options.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
SWP is a feature in mutual funds that allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly. It helps in generating a steady income while keeping your capital invested.

Creating a Steady Monthly Income Stream
Laddering Fixed Deposits
Laddering involves investing in multiple FDs with different maturity periods. This strategy ensures liquidity and regular income. As one FD matures, you can reinvest it, creating a continuous income stream.

Annuity Plans
Annuity plans offer guaranteed income for life. You can invest a lump sum, and in return, you receive regular payouts. However, be cautious as annuities can have high fees and lower returns compared to other options.

Mutual Fund Dividends
Invest in mutual funds that offer regular dividend payouts. Choose funds with a history of consistent dividend payments.

Mitigating Risks
Diversification
As mentioned earlier, diversifying your investments can reduce risk. Avoid putting all your money into one investment.

Risk Assessment
Assess your risk tolerance. At 57, it's crucial to prioritize safety over high returns. Focus on low-risk investments that provide steady income.

Regular Review
Regularly review your investment portfolio. Make adjustments based on market conditions and your financial needs.

Tax Efficiency
Tax-Free Bonds
Invest in tax-free bonds issued by government entities. The interest earned is tax-free, providing a higher effective return.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)
POMIS offers a fixed monthly income with minimal risk. The interest earned is taxable, but it's a safe and reliable option.

Tax Planning
Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for tax-efficient investment strategies. Proper tax planning can enhance your post-tax returns.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
Compounding
Mutual funds harness the power of compounding. Reinvesting dividends or gains helps your investment grow exponentially over time.

Professional Management
Mutual funds are managed by experts who make informed investment decisions. This expertise can help you achieve better returns.

Diversification
Mutual funds invest in a diversified portfolio of securities. This reduces risk and provides a balanced return.

Liquidity
Mutual funds offer high liquidity. You can buy or sell units easily, providing flexibility.

Categories of Mutual Funds
Equity Funds
Equity funds invest in stocks. They offer high returns but come with higher risk. Suitable for long-term investments.

Debt Funds
Debt funds invest in fixed-income securities. They are less volatile and provide regular income. Suitable for conservative investors.

Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds invest in both equity and debt. They balance risk and return, offering moderate growth and income.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Passive Management
Index funds are passively managed, meaning they replicate a specific index. They lack the potential for active management to outperform the market.

Limited Flexibility
Index funds follow a set index, providing limited flexibility to adapt to market changes or capitalize on new opportunities.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Active Management
Actively managed funds are handled by professional fund managers. They aim to outperform the market by selecting the best securities.

Potential for Higher Returns
With active management, there's potential for higher returns compared to passive index funds.

Tactical Allocation
Fund managers can make tactical allocation decisions based on market conditions, enhancing returns.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Guidance
Investing in direct funds means you don't get professional advice. This can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the market.

Time-Consuming
Managing direct funds requires time and effort. You need to research and make informed decisions regularly.

Benefits of Regular Funds via CFP
Expert Advice
Investing through a CFP provides expert guidance. They help you choose the right funds based on your goals and risk tolerance.

Personalized Service
CFPs offer personalized service, ensuring your investments align with your financial plan.

Convenience
Investing through a CFP is convenient. They handle the paperwork and provide regular updates on your portfolio.

Final Insights
Securing a steady monthly income post-retirement requires a well-planned investment strategy. Focus on safe and reliable options like Monthly Income Plans, Fixed Deposits, and Senior Citizens' Saving Scheme. Diversify your investments to mitigate risk and ensure a steady income. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to stay aligned with your financial goals. Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice and tax-efficient strategies.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: You have done a wonderful job accumulating Rs. 8 crores across FDs, mutual funds, shares, and properties. At age 55, it is essential to start focusing on stability, income generation, and wealth preservation. You are entering a critical financial stage where your money must start working for you.

Let us now assess the best investment options for an NRI like you.

Your Current Life Stage: Transitioning to Retirement

At 55, you are possibly in your peak income years or already planning for retirement. Your priority now should be:

– Creating regular income
– Minimising tax outflow
– Keeping inflation under control
– Avoiding capital erosion
– Providing for family and health needs

This life stage needs a customised investment mix that works under a 360-degree framework.

Step 1: Classify Your Financial Goals

Start by separating your financial goals:

– Monthly income needs (post-retirement lifestyle)
– Emergency medical fund (Rs. 15–20 lakhs at minimum)
– Support for spouse or dependent family
– Legacy and estate planning
– Optional: travel or hobbies-based fund

Each goal should have its own investment strategy and risk level.

Step 2: Create a Three-Bucket Investment Strategy

You need to break your portfolio into three parts:

# Short-Term Bucket (0–3 years)
– Keep 1 to 2 years of income needs here.
– Include liquid funds, ultra-short duration debt mutual funds, or bank FDs.
– Do not keep more than 25% of your corpus here.
– Return is not the focus here. Capital safety and liquidity is.

# Medium-Term Bucket (3–7 years)
– Include aggressive hybrid funds and balanced advantage funds.
– Choose regular plans through a Mutual Fund Distributor who is a Certified Financial Planner.
– These funds provide decent growth and some downside protection.
– Rebalance this bucket every 12–18 months.

# Long-Term Bucket (More than 7 years)
– Include diversified equity mutual funds and international exposure through regulated MF houses.
– Choose actively managed funds, not index funds.
– This segment will beat inflation and build wealth.
– Keep 40–50% of your total corpus here, depending on risk comfort.

Step 3: Avoid Index Funds – Here’s Why

You may hear that index funds are low-cost. But cost is not the only thing that matters.

– Index funds have no active human decision-making.
– They follow the market blindly – both up and down.
– In falling markets, index funds cannot protect your capital.
– Actively managed funds adjust to market cycles better.
– Good fund managers know when to reduce equity and when to switch to debt.

So, prefer actively managed funds under the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner.

Step 4: Never Choose Direct Mutual Funds – Here’s Why

Many NRIs feel direct plans have lower cost. But this lower cost comes with hidden problems.

– You don’t get personalised service in direct funds.
– You won’t have anyone to help you with fund rebalancing.
– Tax-efficient withdrawal becomes complex if unmanaged.
– Switching between funds can lead to wrong choices.

Investing through a CFP-certified Mutual Fund Distributor ensures:

– Correct asset allocation
– Timely rebalancing
– Goal mapping and monitoring
– Tax planning
– Behavioural guidance during market volatility

Regular plans, although slightly higher in cost, give you expert handholding and avoid costly mistakes.

Step 5: Ideal Mutual Fund Allocation Strategy

For an NRI like you, mutual funds offer flexibility, diversification, and tax benefits.

Consider a mix of the following categories:

– Flexi cap funds for long-term growth
– Large and mid-cap funds for stability and return
– Aggressive hybrid funds for medium-term needs
– Dynamic asset allocation funds for rebalancing ease
– International funds for USD-based diversification (select AMCs allow NRI investment)

Invest using the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) once you start needing regular income.

– This gives monthly cash flow
– You only pay capital gains tax on the withdrawn amount
– Equity SWP is tax-efficient in the long term

Step 6: Optimise Your FD Exposure

Many NRIs prefer FDs because they feel safe. But these have major downsides:

– Interest is taxable
– Low returns post inflation
– Premature withdrawal reduces interest
– No equity-linked growth potential

Keep only 10–15% of your corpus in FDs. Only for:

– Emergency fund
– Known expense in 1–2 years
– Safety corpus for elderly spouse

Look at debt mutual funds or low-duration hybrid funds as an alternative.

Step 7: Review Your Insurance Exposure

If you hold traditional insurance policies like:

– LIC endowment plans
– ULIPs
– Investment-cum-insurance schemes

Then these may be underperforming. Please check IRR on them. If below 6–7%, surrendering them may be the better choice.

Reinvest the surrender value into mutual funds as per goal needs. Term insurance is enough for life cover.

Step 8: Taxation Awareness for NRIs

Tax planning is very important. NRIs need to keep this in mind:

– LTCG on equity mutual funds above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%
– STCG on equity mutual funds is taxed at 20%
– Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your slab
– NRE FDs are tax-free but repatriation rules apply
– Be aware of Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) rules of your resident country

Work with a tax consultant in India and abroad to ensure clean filing.

Step 9: Estate Planning for NRIs

Being an NRI, you must create a Will in India and your country of residence. Key steps:

– Prepare a clear nomination and Will for your Indian assets
– Appoint a Power of Attorney if needed
– Keep your financial records and MF folios up to date
– Use joint holding in MF investments wherever possible
– Avoid complexity in legal documentation

A CFP can help align your estate wishes with financial instruments.

Step 10: Avoid Real Estate for Future Investments

You already own property. No need to increase exposure here.

– Real estate is illiquid
– Rental income is low post-tax
– Capital gains may not beat inflation
– Regulatory and legal issues exist
– Difficult to manage property from abroad

Instead, channel new investments into flexible instruments like mutual funds or sovereign bonds.

Step 11: Use of SWP Instead of Annuity

You may think of annuity plans for monthly income. But they have major drawbacks:

– Irreversible
– Poor returns
– Capital is locked
– Taxed fully as income

Use mutual funds with SWP option for monthly income. It is:

– Flexible
– Tax-efficient
– Capital remains with you
– You can change withdrawal amount anytime

Step 12: Investment Platform for NRIs

Choose SEBI-registered mutual fund platforms that support NRI KYC and documentation. Ensure:

– Your bank is NRE/NRO compliant
– Your demat (if needed) is NRI-type
– FATCA declaration is submitted
– Avoid platforms that do not provide human support

Do not invest through relatives or proxy accounts. It can lead to compliance issues later.

Step 13: Review Your Portfolio Twice a Year

As an NRI, it’s easy to lose track of Indian investments. Create a review system.

– Use a single dashboard to track MFs, FDs, shares
– Hire a CFP to review asset allocation
– Rebalance every 6–12 months
– Exit poor-performing schemes early
– Align portfolio with risk and goals regularly

Stay informed but avoid reacting emotionally to market ups and downs.

Step 14: Don't Ignore Currency Risks

As an NRI, your retirement may be abroad or in India. Currency fluctuation matters.

– If planning to return to India, Indian assets are good enough
– If staying abroad, include international mutual funds in USD
– Avoid too much repatriation unless needed
– Keep one leg in both currencies through dual strategy

This protects you from rupee depreciation or sudden currency volatility.

Finally

At 55, your portfolio must move from “growing” to “guarding and generating”. You already have built the foundation. Now you need a structured, expert-driven plan.

Keep your investments simple, diversified, and regularly monitored.

Avoid high-cost, inflexible products. Stay away from real estate and annuity locks.

Choose professionally managed mutual funds over index funds and direct investing. Let an experienced Certified Financial Planner guide your journey.

You deserve both peace of mind and wealth growth.

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