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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 18, 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
Saurabh Question by Saurabh on Jun 14, 2024Hindi
Money

How much corpus is required to generate 1.5 lakh monthly after 7 years. Current investments are:- MF- 46 Lakhs EPF- 22 Lakhs Stocks- 2.5 Lakhs Also invested 30 lakhs in office space for capital appreciation. MF SIP - 40K/month VPF -14K/month Own house and one car loan of 4.5 lakhs.

Ans: Creating a robust financial plan to generate Rs. 1.5 lakhs monthly after seven years requires careful analysis and strategic planning. Your current investments, SIPs, and savings are commendable, but let's explore how to achieve this goal in a comprehensive manner.

Understanding Your Financial Goals
Monthly Income Requirement
You aim to generate Rs. 1.5 lakhs per month after seven years. This amount must cover your living expenses, inflation, and other financial needs.

Investment Time Horizon
Your investment time horizon is seven years, which is a moderate-term period. This timeframe allows for a balanced approach between growth and safety.

Evaluating Current Financial Position
Current Investments
Your current investments include:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 46 lakhs
Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF): Rs. 22 lakhs
Stocks: Rs. 2.5 lakhs
Office Space: Rs. 30 lakhs (for capital appreciation)
Monthly SIP in Mutual Funds: Rs. 40,000
Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF): Rs. 14,000 per month
You also have a car loan of Rs. 4.5 lakhs.

Existing Assets
Your existing assets include an office space and your own house, which are significant parts of your portfolio.

Calculating the Required Corpus
To generate Rs. 1.5 lakhs per month, you need a substantial corpus. This calculation considers inflation, return on investment, and withdrawal rate.

Estimating the Corpus
Assume a safe withdrawal rate of 4% annually. To generate Rs. 1.5 lakhs per month, you need Rs. 18 lakhs annually. Therefore, the required corpus is Rs. 4.5 crores (Rs. 18 lakhs / 0.04).

Growing Your Investments
Mutual Fund Investments
Your current mutual fund investment is Rs. 46 lakhs, with a monthly SIP of Rs. 40,000. Over seven years, this can grow significantly. Continue with your SIPs, and consider increasing the amount as your income grows.

EPF and VPF Contributions
Your EPF is Rs. 22 lakhs, with a monthly VPF contribution of Rs. 14,000. EPF offers a stable return, and increasing your VPF contributions can enhance your retirement corpus.

Stock Investments
Your stock investment is Rs. 2.5 lakhs. While stocks offer higher returns, they come with higher risks. Invest in well-researched stocks or consider equity mutual funds for diversified exposure.

Office Space Investment
You have Rs. 30 lakhs invested in office space. Monitor this investment for capital appreciation, but avoid over-relying on real estate for liquidity needs.

Asset Allocation Strategy
Diversified Portfolio
Create a diversified portfolio balancing equity, debt, and other assets. Diversification reduces risk and enhances returns over time.

Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have professional fund managers aiming to outperform the market. These funds can potentially offer higher returns compared to index funds.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Direct funds require investors to manage their investments. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures professional management and better financial outcomes.

Inflation and Its Impact
Adjusting for Inflation
Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. Factor in an average inflation rate of 6-7% annually. Your investments should outpace inflation to maintain your desired lifestyle.

Tax Planning
Efficient Tax Planning
Effective tax planning enhances returns. Utilize tax-saving instruments like EPF, VPF, and Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS). Consult with a CFP for personalized tax planning strategies.

Risk Management
Insurance Coverage
Ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage. These protections are essential for safeguarding your family's financial future.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This fund acts as a financial cushion during unforeseen circumstances.

Strategic Investments for Growth
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
Continue with your SIPs in mutual funds. SIPs offer the advantage of rupee cost averaging and compounding, making them ideal for long-term goals.

Equity Exposure
Increase equity exposure for higher growth potential. Consider equity mutual funds, balanced funds, or direct stock investments for this purpose.

Monitoring and Review
Regular Financial Reviews
Conduct regular reviews of your financial plan. Adjust your investments based on performance, market conditions, and changing financial goals.

Professional Guidance
Engage a CFP to help you manage your financial plan. A CFP provides expert advice, ensuring your financial decisions align with your long-term goals.

Practical Steps for Implementation
Increase SIP Amounts
As your income grows, increase your SIP contributions. This practice ensures continuous investment growth aligned with your financial goals.

Optimize Asset Allocation
Regularly rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. This strategy helps manage risk and optimize returns.

Invest in Growth Assets
Prioritize investments in growth assets like equity and equity mutual funds. These assets offer higher returns over the long term, essential for meeting your corpus target.

Your proactive approach to financial planning is admirable. Balancing current investments with long-term goals shows great financial discipline and foresight.


Managing multiple investments and planning for the future can be overwhelming. Your dedication to securing your family's financial future is commendable.

Long-term Financial Planning
Retirement Planning
Start planning for retirement alongside your other goals. The earlier you start, the more time your investments have to grow, ensuring a comfortable retirement.

Retirement Funds
Invest in retirement-specific funds like the Public Provident Fund (PPF) or Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). These funds provide long-term growth with tax benefits.

Final Insights
Achieving a corpus that generates Rs. 1.5 lakhs monthly after seven years requires disciplined planning and strategic investments. By creating a diversified portfolio, increasing SIP contributions, and regularly reviewing your financial plan, you can meet your financial goals.

Engaging a Certified Financial Planner ensures you receive professional guidance tailored to your unique situation. Your dedication to your family's financial well-being and proactive approach to planning are commendable. With the right strategies and support, you can achieve your financial goals and secure a prosperous future for your family.

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  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

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Sir, Myself Rajesh, salaried person, 37 years old. having MF SIP Rs. 36500 per month, current invested amount is about Rs. 14,00,000/- + in Equity stocks- Rs.3,00,000/- have about Rs. 5,00,000/- in hand to invest either in stocks or MF . Have family of 3 people and Monthly expenses are around Rs.25k. Planning to take retirement in another 10 years, looking at the current investment can you help me identify approx. corpus required to invest and take retirement. Thank you.
Ans: Hello Rajesh! It's great to see your commitment to investing for your future, especially with retirement on the horizon. Let's dive into planning for your retirement corpus.

Given your current investments in MF SIPs and equity stocks, you're already on a solid path. However, to estimate the corpus needed for retirement, we need to consider factors such as your desired post-retirement lifestyle, inflation, and expected expenses.

With your monthly expenses at Rs. 25,000 and a family of three, projecting your future expenses accounting for inflation is essential. Additionally, factoring in potential healthcare costs and other unforeseen expenses is prudent.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend conducting a comprehensive financial review to determine your retirement goals and risk tolerance. This will help in estimating the corpus required to sustain your lifestyle post-retirement comfortably.

With your additional Rs. 5,00,000 in hand, you have an opportunity to further diversify your investments. Whether you choose to invest in stocks or MFs, consider your risk appetite and the need for diversification to mitigate risks.

I suggest consulting with a financial advisor who can create a personalized retirement plan tailored to your specific circumstances and goals. By taking proactive steps now, you're setting yourself up for a financially secure retirement in 10 years. Keep up the good work, and remember, investing is a journey, so stay focused on your long-term objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2024

Money
Sir I have 1.8 Cr in mutual fund and 65 lacs in equity shares ,Sip of 55 thousand per month,Vpf 10000 per month,30 lacs in fd , 20 lac loan given to relative without interest will come in 2 to 3 years.20 lacs in pf, 1.8 lacs in ppf , one plot of value 3 cr and one plot of value 50 lacs with no rental income. I am doing business also and earning yearly approx 20 lacs and I have salary of 1.2 lacs. I am 40 years old and I have 2 kids one daughter 9 years old and son 4 years old. Let me know considering with no salary and so sip and no business now onward and no expenses also.how much corpus will I will get till age of 50 so I can get approx 3 lacs per months.is it workable with this corpus or I have to do more saving.
Ans: Your financial portfolio reflects thoughtful planning and diversification. Here is a breakdown:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 1.8 crore
Equity Shares: Rs. 65 lakhs
SIP: Rs. 55,000 monthly
VPF: Rs. 10,000 monthly
Fixed Deposits: Rs. 30 lakhs
Loan to Relative: Rs. 20 lakhs (to be returned in 2-3 years)
PF: Rs. 20 lakhs
PPF: Rs. 1.8 lakhs
Real Estate: Two plots valued at Rs. 3 crore and Rs. 50 lakhs
Your annual business income of Rs. 20 lakhs and monthly salary of Rs. 1.2 lakhs are also noteworthy. These provide a strong foundation for wealth creation.

You aim to retire at 50 and generate Rs. 3 lakhs per month as income. This requires meticulous planning, particularly if no SIPs or income contributions are made going forward.

Setting Your Financial Goals
Achieving a monthly income of Rs. 3 lakhs from age 50 implies an annual income requirement of Rs. 36 lakhs. To sustain this for a 30-year retirement, your portfolio should provide inflation-adjusted returns consistently.

Key Factors to Consider
Target Corpus: Based on a post-tax return of 6% per annum, you will need Rs. 6-7 crore to achieve this goal.
Inflation: Assume 6% inflation for cost of living adjustments over time.
Current Portfolio Growth: Project your existing assets’ growth over the next 10 years.
Projections of Current Assets
Mutual Funds
Rs. 1.8 crore is a strong equity-oriented asset.
Assuming an annual return of 10%, the corpus could grow to Rs. 4.67 crore in 10 years without additional contributions.
Equity Shares
Rs. 65 lakhs in equities has higher risk but potential for higher returns.
With a conservative annual growth of 8%, this can grow to Rs. 1.4 crore.
Fixed Deposits
Rs. 30 lakhs in FDs provides stability but low growth.
Assuming a 5% return, the corpus will grow to Rs. 49 lakhs.
Loan to Relative
Rs. 20 lakhs returned within 3 years can be reinvested.
Investing this amount in mutual funds with a 10% return for 7 years could yield Rs. 39 lakhs.
VPF, PF, and PPF
Total provident fund investments (Rs. 41.8 lakhs) provide safety and tax-free returns.
With annual contributions and 8% returns, this can grow to Rs. 1.05 crore.
Real Estate
The two plots worth Rs. 3 crore and Rs. 50 lakhs are non-earning.
Selling one and reinvesting in financial assets can improve cash flow.
Strategy for Achieving Your Retirement Goal
Step 1: Optimize Current Investments
Mutual Funds:

Continue SIPs of Rs. 55,000 for at least 3 years.
Ensure a balanced allocation across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
Shift underperforming funds to better-managed schemes.
Avoid index funds, as actively managed funds provide superior returns.
Equity Shares:

Diversify into sectors with long-term growth potential.
Evaluate performance quarterly and consider reallocating underperforming stocks.
VPF and PPF:

Increase PPF contributions to the maximum limit for tax-free compounding.
VPF is a stable instrument; continue contributions.
Fixed Deposits:

Gradually reduce FD holdings.
Reallocate funds to debt mutual funds for better post-tax returns.
Step 2: Plan for Real Estate Monetization
Real estate is a significant portion of your wealth but non-earning.
Selling the Rs. 50 lakh plot and reinvesting the proceeds into mutual funds or debt instruments can boost growth and liquidity.
Step 3: Build Contingency and Liquidity
Maintain Rs. 20 lakhs in liquid funds or FDs for emergencies.
This ensures you can handle unforeseen expenses without disrupting long-term investments.
Tax Efficiency Strategies
Equity and Mutual Funds:

Utilize tax-free thresholds for long-term capital gains.
Plan redemptions to minimize tax outflows.
Debt Investments:

Debt mutual funds are more tax-efficient than FDs. Shift gradually to reduce tax liabilities.
Addressing Key Risks
Inflation Risk
Allocate a significant portion of your portfolio to equity for inflation-adjusted growth.
Longevity Risk
Ensure your corpus lasts for 30+ years. Plan withdrawals conservatively.
Market Volatility
Diversify across asset classes to reduce risks.
Maintain a mix of equity, debt, and safe instruments like PPF.
Final Projections
By age 50, with no additional contributions:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 4.67 crore
Equity Shares: Rs. 1.4 crore
Fixed Deposits: Rs. 49 lakhs
Loan Returns: Rs. 39 lakhs
Provident Funds: Rs. 1.05 crore
Total Corpus: Rs. 7.6 crore (approximately)

Is This Corpus Sufficient?
Yes, this corpus can sustain a monthly withdrawal of Rs. 3 lakhs. However, it assumes disciplined withdrawals and minimal unexpected expenses.

Recommendations to Strengthen the Plan
Continue SIPs and contributions for at least 3 more years.
Monetize one real estate asset to improve liquidity and growth.
Rebalance your portfolio annually to align with market conditions and goals.
Final Insights
You are on track to achieve your retirement goals with your current assets. Regular reviews, disciplined investing, and strategic adjustments will ensure long-term success.

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 Jan 06, 2025

Money
my monthly income post taxes is 2.5 lakh.my MF corpus is 1.25 cr .i am 38 and want to create a corpus which could give me monthly withdwal of 2 lakhs monthly in 7 years time.my xirr is sofar 15 %. how much should i save for this calculation.??
Ans: At age 38, your goal to create a sustainable monthly withdrawal of Rs. 2 lakhs is achievable. With a disciplined savings approach, optimal mutual fund strategy, and proper inflation adjustments, you can achieve financial independence.

 

Understanding Your Goal
1. Corpus Requirement

A monthly withdrawal of Rs. 2 lakhs means Rs. 24 lakhs annually.
A 15% XIRR can help sustain withdrawals for the long term.
You’ll need a corpus of around Rs. 3.5 to Rs. 4 crore in 7 years.
 

2. Inflation Consideration

Rs. 2 lakhs today will be around Rs. 2.8 lakhs in 7 years at 5% inflation.
Your target corpus must grow to accommodate this rise in expenses.
 

Current Financial Snapshot
1. Existing MF Corpus

Your existing mutual fund corpus is Rs. 1.25 crore.
At 15% XIRR, this corpus will grow significantly over 7 years.
 

2. Monthly Income and Savings Potential

Post-tax income is Rs. 2.5 lakhs.
With disciplined savings, you can channel a significant portion into investments.
 

Estimating Additional Savings
1. Calculating Savings Requirement

Assuming your current corpus grows at 15% annually:
It will contribute a substantial portion towards your target.
Additional savings will bridge the gap to reach Rs. 3.5 crore or more.
 

2. Suggested Monthly Savings

Save Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 70,000 monthly into mutual funds.
This amount, combined with your current corpus, will help meet the target.
 

3. Adjusting Over Time

As your income grows, increase your savings gradually.
This ensures that inflation-adjusted expenses are well covered.
 

Investment Strategy
1. Actively Managed Mutual Funds

Invest in actively managed equity mutual funds for long-term growth.
These funds often outperform index funds, especially in volatile markets.
 

2. Regular Plans over Direct Plans

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner ensure professional guidance.
Direct plans lack advisory support, leading to missed rebalancing opportunities.
 

3. Balanced Portfolio

Maintain 70-80% in equity funds for growth and 20-30% in debt funds for stability.
This diversification reduces risk and supports consistent growth.
 

4. Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Start a monthly SIP for disciplined savings and rupee cost averaging.
SIPs also align with your cash flow, ensuring regular investments.
 

Withdrawal Strategy
1. Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)

SWPs ensure regular cash flows during retirement without liquidating the corpus.
Withdraw from debt funds during equity market corrections.
 

2. Tax-Efficient Withdrawals

Plan withdrawals to minimise long-term capital gains tax.
Withdraw in tranches to stay below taxable thresholds when possible.
 

Risk Management
1. Emergency Fund

Set aside 6-12 months of expenses in a liquid fund.
This protects your investments during unforeseen circumstances.
 

2. Health Insurance

Ensure comprehensive health insurance for you and your family.
High coverage avoids unexpected medical costs eroding your corpus.
 

Final Insights
Your goal of Rs. 2 lakh monthly withdrawal in 7 years is achievable. With Rs. 1.25 crore already invested, disciplined monthly savings of Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 70,000 will bridge the gap. Focus on actively managed mutual funds and follow a well-diversified portfolio for long-term growth. Regular reviews with a Certified Financial Planner will help you stay on track.

 

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 Jul 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 27, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello sir , I am 34 year old, me and my wife earn around 2.6lakh (in hand) per month and we also have 15k rental income. We have 19lakh in mutual funds(direct equity based) with 36k monthly SIP. We have invested 3.5lakh in direct stocks. I also own a commercial property in Pune which is still vacant and a house which earns 15k rental income per month as mentioned above. I have set aside 5lakh FD as emergency fund . My monthly expenditure is around 60k which includes 30k rent and 30k other expenses. . Coming to liabilities I have 36lakh home loan (42000 as EMI) and company leased car for which 40k is deducted from my salary. How much corpus should I create to have 1.5lakh monthly income in next 10 years.
Ans: You are already doing well in terms of managing expenses, investing regularly, and keeping an emergency fund. Let’s now look at your goal of generating Rs 1.5 lakh monthly income in 10 years.

Income and Expense Snapshot
Combined monthly income: Rs 2.6 lakh (net)

Rental income: Rs 15,000

Total monthly inflow: Rs 2.75 lakh

Monthly expenses: Rs 60,000

Home loan EMI: Rs 42,000

Car lease deduction: Rs 40,000

Net monthly savings potential: Rs 1.33 lakh (approx)

You are already investing Rs 36,000 SIP monthly. That’s encouraging.

Existing Assets Overview
Rs 19 lakh in direct equity mutual funds (regular SIP: Rs 36,000)

Rs 3.5 lakh in direct stocks

Rs 5 lakh in fixed deposit (emergency fund)

Two real estate properties (one generating rent)

No mention of PPF, EPF, or insurance-based investments

This shows good diversification in equity and real estate. However, some areas need rebalancing.

Insights on Your Financial Goal
Target: Rs 1.5 lakh monthly income in 10 years
Adjusted for Inflation: Rs 1.5 lakh today will feel like Rs 3 lakh (approx) in 10 years
Nature of Goal: Passive income generation post 10 years

Your goal is income replacement, not one-time wealth. You are aiming for financial independence.

To generate Rs 3 lakh income in future, you will need a sizeable corpus. This must be well planned across low-volatility and income-generating assets.

Corpus Needed in 10 Years
You will need around Rs 5 to 6 crore in 10 years. This estimate assumes a moderate withdrawal rate and income inflation.

This corpus will allow:

Rs 3 lakh monthly withdrawals

Corpus stability for long term

Margin for medical, travel, lifestyle costs

This is a dynamic number. It can slightly change based on your asset returns, inflation, and lifestyle changes.

Evaluating Current Asset Allocation
Let us analyse each component from a Certified Financial Planner perspective:

Mutual Funds (Direct Plans)
You have Rs 19 lakh invested and SIP of Rs 36,000 monthly

These are in direct equity funds

Direct plans may look cheaper, but they lack handholding

Disadvantages of Direct Plans:

No expert monitoring or rebalancing

No help during market downturns

Difficult to align with your life goals

Benefits of Investing via Regular Plans through a CFP-certified MFD:

Ongoing advisory

Goal-based planning

Rebalancing support

Behavioral coaching in volatile markets

Consider switching from direct to regular plans with a qualified Mutual Fund Distributor (who is also a CFP). This will align your investments better with your goal.

Direct Stocks Investment
You have Rs 3.5 lakh in stocks

This exposure is small, so risk is limited

No issue keeping it for long-term wealth creation

But avoid expanding this unless you have time and skill

Stocks are high risk and require time, research, and experience. Use mutual funds for long-term compounding.

Emergency Fund in FD
Rs 5 lakh in fixed deposit is appropriate

Covers 8–10 months of expenses

Keep this untouched

Consider laddering FDs to improve returns

You may also explore ultra-short debt mutual funds for better post-tax returns.

Real Estate Holdings
One house generating Rs 15,000 rent

One commercial property in Pune (vacant)

Keep in mind:

Real estate is illiquid

Rental yield is low

Maintenance and tax reduce net gains

Selling may take time

Since you're not planning to sell, treat these as fixed assets. Avoid real estate as an investment tool in future. Focus on financial assets instead.

Loan and Fixed Obligations
Rs 36 lakh home loan with Rs 42,000 EMI

Car lease Rs 40,000 monthly

Total fixed outgo: Rs 82,000 per month

Loan should be closed before 10 years if possible. Early closure will reduce stress and increase savings capacity.

Strategies to manage:

Use future bonuses or incentives to prepay loan

Avoid taking new loans

Keep lifestyle inflation under control

Monthly Savings Capacity
After EMI and expenses, you save nearly Rs 1.3 lakh monthly. You are investing Rs 36,000 monthly via SIP. This gives you room to expand SIPs by Rs 70,000 to 90,000 more.

Recommended Investment Strategy
To build Rs 6 crore in 10 years, you’ll need:

Consistent investment of Rs 1.2 to 1.3 lakh monthly

Review and rebalance annually

Diversify across equity and hybrid funds

Take help from a CFP-certified Mutual Fund Distributor

Suggested fund mix:

Large cap mutual funds

Flexi cap mutual funds

Aggressive hybrid mutual funds

Midcap funds with moderation

International funds up to 10% for diversification

Avoid index funds. Here’s why:

Disadvantages of Index Funds
No protection during market crash

Passive strategy, no flexibility

Blindly follows index, even if some stocks are weak

Cannot outperform markets

No portfolio correction during poor cycles

Actively managed mutual funds perform better over long periods. They also adjust portfolio based on market cycles.

You need this agility to build a solid corpus in 10 years.

Insurance Planning
You have not mentioned term or health insurance. This is a big gap.

Please ensure the following:

Rs 1 to 2 crore term life cover for yourself

Rs 10 to 15 lakh health insurance for family

These protect your plan from unexpected shocks

Avoid ULIPs or traditional LIC policies for investment. If you hold any, consider surrendering and reinvesting in mutual funds.

Retirement Income Strategy (Post 10 Years)
Once your corpus is built, income can come from:

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from mutual funds

Dividend option from hybrid or balanced funds

PPF/EPF maturity (if any)

Rental income from real estate

Keep these in mind for tax efficiency:

Capital Gains Taxation (From 2025-26)

Equity mutual fund LTCG over Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%

STCG taxed at 20%

Debt mutual funds taxed as per slab

A Certified Financial Planner can guide you in drawing this income tax-efficiently using SWP.

Tax Planning
Use the following strategies:

Invest in ELSS (up to Rs 1.5 lakh)

Claim home loan interest deduction under Sec 24

Health insurance under Sec 80D

Use HRA exemption or home loan principal for 80C

Plan for post-retirement taxes from mutual fund withdrawals and rental income.

Goal-Based Investment Buckets
Break your investments into these buckets:

Core Growth Bucket: Equity mutual funds (60% allocation)

Stability Bucket: Aggressive hybrid funds (30%)

Liquidity Bucket: Liquid funds, FD (10%)

Keep reviewing goals and adjusting allocation.

Action Plan Summary
Increase SIP to Rs 1.2 lakh monthly

Move from direct to regular mutual funds

Use services of CFP-certified Mutual Fund Distributor

Avoid real estate and index funds

Track progress every year

Plan withdrawal phase after 10 years carefully

Take insurance for protection

Plan tax using mutual funds and deductions

This plan will help you build Rs 6 crore corpus and generate income of Rs 3 lakh monthly post 10 years.

Finally
You’re already on the right track. Your discipline and awareness are commendable.

With careful planning, you can achieve financial independence comfortably in 10 years. Keep investing regularly and track all financial goals with the help of a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid distractions from new trends or schemes. Stick to goal-based planning with focus and patience.

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 Jul 01, 2025

Money
Hello sir , I am 34 year old, me and my wife earn around 2.6lakh (in hand) per month and we also have 15k rental income. We have 12 lakh in PF , 19lakh in mutual funds(direct equity based) with 36k monthly SIP. We have invested 3.5lakh in direct stocks. I also own a commercial property in Pune which is still vacant and a house which earns 15k rental income per month as mentioned above. I have set aside 5lakh FD as emergency fund . My monthly expenditure is around 60k which includes 30k rent and 30k other expenses. . Coming to liabilities I have 36lakh home loan (42000 as EMI) and company leased car for which 40k is deducted from my salary. How much corpus should I create to have 1.5lakh monthly income in next 10 years.
Ans: You are already doing several things right

At 34, you have started well.

Your savings are consistent.

You and your wife earn Rs.2.6 lakh per month.

Rs.15,000 monthly rental adds extra cash flow.

Your total income is Rs.2.75 lakh.

Your monthly spending is just Rs.60,000.

That means over Rs.2 lakh is available monthly.

Your savings rate is impressive.

You already have:

Rs.12 lakh in PF

Rs.19 lakh in direct mutual funds

Rs.3.5 lakh in stocks

Rs.5 lakh in fixed deposit as emergency fund

Rs.36,000 SIP per month

Rs.36 lakh home loan

Rs.15,000 rental income

Commercial property still vacant

Let’s evaluate your financial stability first

Your cash flow is strong:

Income after car deduction = Rs.2.35 lakh per month

Monthly EMI is Rs.42,000

Rent is Rs.30,000

Living expenses are Rs.30,000

Total monthly outflow is around Rs.1.02 lakh

Balance is over Rs.1.3 lakh monthly

You are not under financial pressure right now.

Emergency fund is sufficient.

There is good asset diversification, but with room for improvement.

Let’s now understand your goal clearly.

Your Goal: Rs.1.5 lakh monthly income after 10 years

You want Rs.1.5 lakh per month in 2035

This is today’s value

In 10 years, cost of living will go up

Assuming 6% inflation, Rs.1.5 lakh becomes Rs.2.7 lakh

You need income of Rs.2.7 lakh/month after 10 years

This is important:

Monthly income of Rs.2.7 lakh = Rs.32.4 lakh annually

You want this income without working

That means corpus must generate Rs.32.4 lakh yearly

Let’s now estimate the retirement corpus.

You need a safe withdrawal option for steady income.

Target Corpus: What you should aim for

For monthly Rs.2.7 lakh, you may need Rs.5.5 crore to Rs.6 crore

This range depends on risk tolerance and lifestyle

It gives a 5.5% return post-tax which is sustainable

It assumes balanced asset allocation

Corpus can last 25–30 years comfortably

Let’s now assess your current investments.

Analysis of your current assets

EPF of Rs.12 lakh will grow well

But EPF is low return with partial liquidity

Rs.19 lakh in direct equity mutual funds

Rs.3.5 lakh in stocks – high risk, low diversification

SIP of Rs.36,000 per month in direct funds

Rs.5 lakh FD as emergency fund is sufficient

Rental income of Rs.15,000 is helpful

Commercial property is not giving income yet

Direct funds can be risky for DIY investors:

They lack guidance from a Certified Financial Planner

Many investors pick based on recent performance

They fail to review regularly

They don’t have asset allocation strategy

They miss opportunities due to lack of tracking

Even emotions affect decisions in direct investing

With regular funds through MFD-CFP, you get full support

You get asset rebalancing

You get goal tracking

You get timely switch suggestions

You don’t end up with underperforming schemes

Direct investing looks cheaper.

But it can be costlier due to mistakes.

Now let’s assess the SIP and your gap.

SIP: Will Rs.36,000 monthly be enough?

No. It won’t be enough alone.

SIP of Rs.36,000 will grow

But it won’t be Rs.6 crore in 10 years

It may reach around Rs.80–90 lakh

You’ll still have a big gap

You must increase SIP consistently.

Step-up SIP every year.

Also channel surplus income to investments.

You are saving over Rs.1.3 lakh monthly after expenses and EMI.

Use that full surplus to build your corpus.

How to reach Rs.6 crore corpus in 10 years

You already have around Rs.39.5 lakh in financial assets:

Rs.12 lakh PF

Rs.19 lakh mutual funds

Rs.3.5 lakh stocks

Rs.5 lakh FD

What you should do now:

Continue Rs.36,000 SIP

Increase SIP by 10–15% yearly

Use your Rs.1.3 lakh surplus to start new SIPs

Shift from direct funds to regular funds via MFD-CFP

Allocate wisely: large-cap, mid-cap, flexi-cap, hybrid

Keep debt exposure as retirement nears

Exit from underperforming schemes timely

Keep Rs.5 lakh emergency fund untouched

Track returns annually

Add your wife as co-investor in long term plans

Ensure nominee details are updated

Avoid ULIPs and investment-linked insurance plans

Avoid FDs for long term unless for short goals

Avoid index funds — they mimic the market

Index funds do not beat inflation much

Active funds are managed better

Active funds give more flexibility

Certified Financial Planner tracks them for you

Also:

Create goal-based investment buckets

Retirement, children’s education, vacation etc.

Don’t mix emergency fund with goal fund

Keep one separate for medical emergencies

Invest in a diversified way

Avoid investing lump sum in equity at once

Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) if needed

Loan: Should you prepay home loan or invest?

You have Rs.36 lakh home loan.

EMI is Rs.42,000.

At this stage:

Don’t rush to close the loan

Your interest may give tax benefit

Keep investing for long term instead

Only prepay if return on investment is less than loan interest

Right now, equity funds can give higher returns

So continue with EMI and invest excess

But do this:

Avoid taking new loans

Avoid using credit cards for non-essentials

Make sure loan EMIs don’t exceed 30% of income

That’s already managed well in your case

Real estate: What to do about commercial property

Currently the property is vacant.

It is not adding value today.

Do this:

Try to rent it out actively

Avoid keeping it idle

Don’t consider it part of retirement plan

Avoid over-allocating to real estate again

It locks up capital

Liquidity is poor

Returns may not beat inflation

Mutual funds and equity offer better flexibility and tax efficiency

Real estate has hidden costs too:

Maintenance

Property tax

Broker charges

Delayed sale

Legal hassles

Retirement Planning: 360° View

You must build your Rs.6 crore corpus by:

Increasing monthly SIP from Rs.36,000 to Rs.1.2–1.5 lakh

Step-up your SIP every year

Shift from direct to regular mutual funds with CFP monitoring

Maintain emergency and short-term funds separately

Avoid new loans or risky bets in stocks

Monitor your investments regularly

Take term insurance for protection

Have medical insurance for whole family

Make nominations and a Will

Involve your spouse in financial planning

Use annual bonuses for lumpsum investing

Rebalance portfolio once a year

Track goals with professional advice

Once you reach Rs.6 crore:

You can start Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)

You can generate Rs.2.7 lakh per month easily

Withdraw 5–6% per year

Keep corpus growing with balanced investing

This gives financial freedom with peace of mind.

Finally

You are already on the right path.

But you need to step up your pace.

Savings rate is high — use it fully.

Don't rely on direct funds alone.

Shift to regular mutual funds via a Certified Financial Planner.

They give long-term handholding.

Avoid index funds, they don’t offer personalised support or flexibility.

You already have rental and fixed income buffer.

Now optimise your investments for growth.

In 10 years, you can easily reach Rs.1.5 lakh monthly income goal.

Build a disciplined plan.

Stick to it.

Keep reviewing it yearly.

You are not far from financial independence.

Stay consistent.

Stay guided.

Stay focused.

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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