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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 01, 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
Balu Question by Balu on Mar 17, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, how much should I invest monthly to accumulate 1Cr in 15 years

Ans: Monthly invest 20000 Rs in 12% earning mutual funds for 15 years.
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  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

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Hi sir, how much I should invest to accumulate 1Cr in 15 years
Ans: Accumulating ?1 crore in 15 years is a commendable and achievable goal with the right strategy. It requires discipline, patience, and a sound investment plan. Your focus on long-term planning is excellent and necessary for building substantial wealth.

The Power of SIPs
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are a great way to invest regularly without timing the market. They help in averaging the purchase cost and benefit from the power of compounding. For long-term goals, equity mutual funds are preferable due to their potential for higher returns compared to other asset classes.

Expected Returns
For a goal of ?1 crore in 15 years, we will assume an annual return of 12%. This is a realistic expectation for diversified equity mutual funds, which have historically provided such returns over long periods.

Monthly Investment Calculation
To accumulate ?1 crore in 15 years with a 12% annual return, you need to invest a specific amount every month. The formula used for calculating the future value of SIPs helps in determining this monthly investment amount.

Based on the calculations, you will need to invest approximately ?15,000 to ?18,000 per month to achieve your goal. This range takes into account slight variations in returns due to market conditions.

Steps to Achieve Your Goal
1. Choose the Right Mutual Funds:
Diversify your investments across different categories like large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds. Avoid thematic funds like infrastructure as they come with higher risks.

2. Regular Monitoring:
Review your portfolio at least once a year to ensure it aligns with your goals. Make adjustments based on performance and changes in your financial situation.

3. Increase SIP Amount:
Consider stepping up your SIP amount annually in line with salary increments. This practice can significantly boost your corpus.

4. Stay Invested:
Remain invested for the long term and avoid the temptation to withdraw during market volatility. Staying invested helps in reaping the benefits of compounding.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds are managed by professional fund managers who aim to outperform the market. They have the flexibility to change the portfolio allocation based on market conditions, which can potentially provide better returns compared to index funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds:
Index funds simply replicate the performance of a market index. They lack the flexibility to adapt to market changes and might not perform well during downturns.

Benefits of Regular Funds:
Investing through regular funds with the help of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures you get professional advice and ongoing portfolio management. This can enhance your investment strategy and help in achieving your goals more efficiently.

Emergency Fund
Before starting your SIPs, ensure you have an emergency fund equivalent to six months of expenses. This fund provides a financial cushion during unforeseen circumstances and prevents the need to dip into your investments.

Conclusion
Your goal of accumulating ?1 crore in 15 years is achievable with disciplined investing and regular reviews. Investing ?15,000 to ?18,000 per month in a diversified portfolio of actively managed equity mutual funds can help you reach your target. Working with a Certified Financial Planner ensures you get expert advice and stay on track with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 02, 2024

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Money
I m 43 yrs. old, working in pvt company and getting Rs. 60,000 per month after deduction, how much and where I have to invest to get Rs 1cr. after 20yrs, and what will be the value of 1 cr. 20yrs.
Ans: To achieve a corpus of 1 crore in 20 years, you need to start investing regularly and systematically to benefit from the power of compounding. Here's a general approach:

Investment Amount: Determine how much you can afford to invest each month after accounting for your expenses and other financial obligations. Aim to invest consistently to benefit from rupee-cost averaging and compound growth.
Investment Avenues: Consider investing in a mix of equity mutual funds, which offer higher growth potential over the long term, and debt instruments for stability. Equity investments can include diversified equity funds or index funds, while debt instruments may include fixed deposits or debt mutual funds.
Asset Allocation: Your asset allocation should align with your risk tolerance and investment horizon. As you have a 20-year time frame, you can afford to have a higher allocation to equity, which historically offers higher returns over extended periods.
Regular Review: Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Make adjustments as needed based on changes in market conditions, personal circumstances, or investment objectives.
Regarding the value of 1 crore after 20 years, it's essential to consider the impact of inflation. The purchasing power of 1 crore after 20 years will be significantly lower due to the erosion of value caused by inflation. To estimate the future value of 1 crore, you can use a simple inflation calculator, taking into account historical inflation rates and projecting future inflation trends.

Remember, investing for the long term requires discipline, patience, and a well-thought-out strategy. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to develop a personalized investment plan tailored to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. They can provide valuable guidance and help you navigate the complexities of investing for the future.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8932 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 17, 2025
Money
I have 2 App loans 36000 and 140000 + 2 credit card outstanding 95000 and 187000 (Both principal amount). I have bounced my all 4 EMI's since last 3 months due to job loss and my salary is peanuts. How can I survive with house chorus and paying EMI's. Please help
Ans: It is painful and stressful. But please know this — you are not alone, and you can come out of this. Let’s take this step-by-step.

You are facing:

2 App loans: Rs. 36,000 + Rs. 1,40,000

2 Credit card dues: Rs. 95,000 + Rs. 1,87,000

3 months EMIs already bounced

Low or no income due to job loss

Home responsibilities ongoing

This is serious, but manageable with the right action.

First, Understand What Will Not Work
Please avoid:

Taking new loans to pay old loans

Using other credit cards to pay EMIs

Borrowing from illegal or unknown lenders

Ignoring lenders and collection calls

Hoping the problem will disappear on its own

These will make your problem worse.

Step 1: Protect Yourself from Legal Pressure
You have already defaulted. That may lead to:

Legal notices from credit card companies

Harassment from collection agents

Credit score falling below 600

So you need to act fast.

Call each of the lenders yourself. Do not wait for them to call you.

Tell them honestly:

You lost your job

You are facing cash crisis

You want to settle and not escape

Ask for temporary EMI pause (moratorium) or restructuring

Lenders prefer talking to honest borrowers.

You may get:

Waiver of late fees

Reduction in interest

EMI holiday for few months

Option to convert dues into longer EMIs

Write an email also to them. Keep written proof.

This shows you are serious.

Step 2: Focus on Survival, Not Full Repayment Now
You must survive this phase first. Do only the must-do expenses:

Food and kitchen

Electricity and gas

Child or parents’ basic needs

Rent or basic housing

Cut all others:

OTT, Swiggy, Zomato, shopping

Eating out, subscriptions

Cab rides, mobile upgrades

Any premium items

Every saved rupee will count now.

Make a list of all expenses, and cut it to bare minimum.

Your mental peace comes before EMI.

Step 3: List Your Dues in Priority Order
Here is a breakdown:

App Loan 1 – Rs. 36,000

App Loan 2 – Rs. 1,40,000

Credit Card 1 – Rs. 95,000

Credit Card 2 – Rs. 1,87,000

App loans and credit cards have very high interest. Usually 24–40% per year.

But credit cards will affect your CIBIL score more if unpaid.

So give this order of priority:

Try to settle credit card 1 (Rs. 95,000) first

Then negotiate with credit card 2 (Rs. 1.87L)

After that, settle App Loan 1

Then App Loan 2

Why this order?

Credit card interest is high

Card dues snowball fast

App loans may negotiate faster than banks

Step 4: Ask for One-Time Settlement (OTS)
Once you show that you have zero income, some banks may agree to:

Close your loan at reduced principal

Stop interest from increasing further

Give you 3–6 months to pay off in parts

Ask for a written One-Time Settlement (OTS) letter.

Do not pay without it.

Once you settle, your CIBIL score will take time to recover. But that’s okay. Life first. Score later.

Step 5: Find Any Cash You Can
Please think deeply about the following:

Can you sell a scooter, old phone, gadgets?

Can any relative or friend help temporarily?

Do you have gold you can pledge (not sell)?

Any unused subscriptions or refund available?

Can you do part-time work for Rs. 300–500/day?

Every Rs. 500 helps your mental health now.

Avoid taking loans again. Instead, look for non-loan help.

Step 6: Get a Job, Any Job for Now
Even if it is not in your field, take any income work:

Delivery partner

Data entry

Freelance teaching

Typing work

Shop help

Online task jobs

Voice process

Focus is not on salary. Focus is to:

Keep cash flow coming

Feel responsible again

Stop going deeper into debt

Update resume. Ask friends. Join job groups. Apply daily.

Even Rs. 15,000/month will bring confidence.

You are not alone. Many professionals have started over.

Step 7: Emotionally Stay Strong
You may feel:

Guilt

Shame

Panic

Anger

Frustration

It is normal.

Please:

Talk to family or trusted friend

Keep one hour daily for walks, exercise or prayer

Sleep properly

Eat simple food, but on time

Avoid alcohol or substance use

This phase will pass.

Stay focused.

Final Insights
You are not a failure. This is a temporary financial emergency.

With calm steps, you can rebuild. Slowly, but surely.

Do this immediately:

Contact all lenders and ask for restructuring

Stop all luxury or non-essential expenses

Prioritise credit cards

Consider OTS if needed

Start small income work

Protect your mental strength

Once your income starts again:

Restart savings, even small

Use Certified Financial Planner later to rebuild

Learn how to stay debt-free in future

Take one step at a time.

You will come out stronger.

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |6466 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 17, 2025

Career
Sir igot 444 and AIQ is 131279 iam obc ncl (kerala) there is any possibilities for BDS in government college.
Ans: Nibla, A NEET score of 444 falls below the typical marks cutoff for OBC-NCL candidates seeking BDS in government dental colleges, where qualifying marks range between 520–540 for OBC students. Similarly, All India BDS closing ranks under the 15 percent AIQ for OBC rarely exceed 35,000, whereas your AIQ rank is 131,279, placing you far outside the viable admission range. Nationwide only about 3,000 government BDS seats exist, and premier institutions such as SCB Dental College (Cuttack), Government Dental College (Bangalore), and Tamil Nadu Government Dental College (Chennai) closed with AIQ ranks under 30,000 for OBC. Under Kerala’s 85 percent state quota, Government Dental College, Thiruvananthapuram admitted OBC candidates with ranks up to 51,595 in earlier years, while Kottayam and Kannur closed within similar state-rank brackets, implying state ranks must be substantially lower than your AIQ conversion would yield. Consequently, securing a BDS seat in a government college appears highly unlikely. Consider prioritising private or deemed dental colleges with lower cutoffs and participating in both AIQ and state counselling to maximise admission options. Recommendation: Focus on private or deemed dental institutions, as government quota thresholds exceed reachable marks and ranks. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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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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