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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 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
Asked by Anonymous - May 11, 2024Hindi
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Iam 27 yrs old My savings every month is 20000 how to 200 grams gold in coming 20 years for my daughters wedding ?

Ans: Planning for Your Daughter's Wedding: Achieving 200 Grams of Gold in 20 Years

Understanding Your Financial Goal:

Congratulations on planning ahead for your daughter's wedding! It's commendable to prioritize her future financial needs.

Assessing the Goal:

To accumulate 200 grams of gold in 20 years, we need to strategize a disciplined savings plan aligned with your monthly budget.

Analyzing Your Savings Capacity:

With a monthly savings of Rs 20,000, we can explore investment avenues to maximize returns while managing risk.

Setting Realistic Expectations:

It's essential to set realistic expectations regarding the rate of gold accumulation, considering market fluctuations and investment returns.

Investment Options:

We'll explore investment options that offer growth potential over the long term, ensuring the achievement of your target.

Benefits of Regular Investments:

Regular investments through a SIP or other systematic savings plans can harness the power of compounding, amplifying your wealth over time.

Disadvantages of Direct Gold Purchase:

While purchasing physical gold provides a tangible asset, it lacks the potential for capital appreciation and income generation.

Analyzing Gold ETFs:

Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) offer exposure to gold prices without the hassle of physical storage. However, they carry expenses and market risks.

Benefits of Equity Investments:

Investing in equity mutual funds presents an opportunity for higher returns over the long term, outpacing inflation and enhancing wealth accumulation.

Disadvantages of Index Funds:

Index funds may limit potential returns as they track specific market indices, missing out on opportunities for alpha generation through active management.

Maximizing Returns Through Diversification:

Diversifying your investment portfolio across asset classes like equities, debt, and gold can optimize returns while minimizing risk.

Consultation with a Certified Financial Planner:

Seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures personalized guidance tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, achieving the goal of accumulating 200 grams of gold in 20 years requires a disciplined savings approach and strategic investment planning. By leveraging regular investments in equity mutual funds and possibly gold ETFs, we can work towards fulfilling your daughter's wedding dreams.

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  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 17, 2024Hindi
Money
After fulfilling my needs I can save only twenty thousand per month..How can I invest it for my better futures?
Ans: Investing wisely is key to building a secure financial future. Saving Rs 20,000 per month is a solid foundation, and with the right strategies, you can ensure a prosperous future. Let’s explore a comprehensive plan to maximize your savings and investments.

Understanding Your Financial Goals
Before diving into investment options, it's crucial to outline your financial goals. These might include:

Retirement Planning: Ensuring a comfortable life post-retirement.
Children’s Education: Funding your children’s education needs.
Emergency Fund: Building a cushion for unforeseen expenses.
Home Purchase: Saving for a down payment on a house.
Wealth Creation: Generating long-term wealth.
Having clear goals will help you choose the right investment vehicles.

Building an Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is your financial safety net. It should cover at least six months of living expenses.

Recommendation:

Allocate Rs 5,000 per month until you reach your target emergency fund (Rs 1.5 to 2 lakhs).
Keep this fund in a high-interest savings account or a liquid mutual fund for easy access.
Retirement Planning
Planning for retirement early ensures that you can enjoy your golden years without financial worries.

Recommendation:

Contribute to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) through your employer if available.
Start a Public Provident Fund (PPF) account and invest Rs 1,500 per month for tax-free returns and security.
Allocate Rs 5,000 per month in a balanced mutual fund for moderate growth with lower risk.
Investing in Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are an excellent way to diversify your investments and achieve higher returns.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, helping you build wealth over time.

Advantages of SIPs:

Rupee Cost Averaging: Mitigates market volatility by averaging the purchase cost.
Discipline: Encourages regular investing.
Compounding: Helps grow your wealth over time.
Recommendation:

Equity Mutual Funds: Allocate Rs 6,000 per month to diversified equity mutual funds. These funds offer higher returns over the long term, suitable for goals like retirement and wealth creation.
Debt Mutual Funds: Allocate Rs 3,000 per month to debt mutual funds. These funds provide stability and are less volatile than equity funds, suitable for medium-term goals.
Children’s Education Fund
Investing for your children’s education is crucial for their future success.

Recommendation:

Balanced Funds: Allocate Rs 3,000 per month to balanced mutual funds. These funds invest in a mix of equity and debt, providing stability and growth.
Education Savings Plans: Consider specific education savings plans that offer tax benefits and secure returns.
Tax-Efficient Investments
Optimizing your investments for tax efficiency can enhance your returns.

Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
ELSS funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C and have the potential for high returns.

Recommendation:

Invest Rs 1,500 per month in ELSS funds to save tax and grow your wealth. These funds have a lock-in period of three years but are among the best tax-saving instruments.
Health and Term Insurance
Ensuring adequate health and life insurance is essential for financial security.

Health Insurance:

Ensure you have a comprehensive health insurance policy for yourself and your family. This will protect you from high medical expenses.
Term Insurance:

A term insurance plan is crucial to secure your family’s future in case of any unforeseen events. The premium is affordable, and the cover is substantial.
Diversification for Risk Management
Diversifying your investments helps manage risk and improve returns.

Recommendation:

Equity Funds: Rs 6,000 per month
Debt Funds: Rs 3,000 per month
Balanced Funds: Rs 3,000 per month
PPF: Rs 1,500 per month
ELSS: Rs 1,500 per month
Emergency Fund: Rs 5,000 per month (initially, then redistribute)
Gold as a Hedge
Gold can be a good hedge against inflation and economic downturns, but it should not be a major part of your portfolio due to limited growth potential compared to equity.

Recommendation:

Consider allocating a small portion, Rs 1,000 per month, to gold ETFs or sovereign gold bonds for diversification.
Regular Portfolio Review
Reviewing your investment portfolio regularly ensures that you stay on track to achieve your financial goals.

Recommendation:

Review your portfolio at least once a year.
Rebalance your investments based on performance and changes in your financial goals or market conditions.
Financial Discipline and Consistency
Maintaining financial discipline and consistency in your investments is key to long-term success.

Recommendation:

Stick to your investment plan regardless of market fluctuations.
Avoid withdrawing from your investment funds unless absolutely necessary.
Exploring Additional Income Sources
Consider exploring additional income sources to boost your savings and investments.

Recommendation:

Freelancing: Leverage your skills to earn extra income.
Part-Time Work: Consider part-time opportunities that align with your expertise.
Online Courses: Invest in online courses to enhance your skills and increase your earning potential.
The Role of a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide professional advice and personalized financial planning.

Benefits of Consulting a CFP:

Expertise: Access to professional advice tailored to your financial situation.
Comprehensive Planning: Holistic view of your financial goals and how to achieve them.
Objective Advice: Unbiased recommendations based on your best interests.
Final Insights
Investing Rs 20,000 per month can significantly enhance your financial future. By diversifying your investments, planning for long-term goals, and maintaining financial discipline, you can achieve financial security and prosperity.

Emergency Fund: Start with Rs 5,000/month.
Retirement Planning: Invest Rs 5,000/month in balanced and PPF funds.
Mutual Funds: Allocate Rs 9,000/month to equity, debt, and balanced funds.
Children’s Education: Dedicate Rs 3,000/month.
Tax Efficiency: Utilize ELSS for tax-saving investments.
Regularly review your portfolio, consult a Certified Financial Planner, and explore additional income sources to maximize your savings and investments.

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to achieving your financial goals and ensuring a secure and prosperous future for yourself and your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 08, 2024Hindi
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Money
Namaste Sir, Can Purchasing Gold of 15000 from now, give good return in next 5/6 years.
Ans: Investing in gold is a popular choice. It provides a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties.

Historical Performance of Gold
Stability and Growth
Gold has shown consistent growth over long periods.

It tends to perform well during economic downturns.

Volatility
Gold prices can be volatile in the short term.

Over 5-6 years, it usually stabilizes and provides decent returns.

Analyzing Gold's Potential
Economic Factors
Global economic conditions affect gold prices.

Geopolitical tensions often drive gold prices up.

Inflation Hedge
Gold is an excellent hedge against inflation.

It retains value even when the currency value drops.

Comparing Gold with Other Investments
Equity Mutual Funds
Higher Growth Potential: Equity funds can provide higher returns.

Active Management: Managed by professionals for optimal returns.

Debt Funds
Stability: Lower risk compared to equities.

Fixed Income: Provides steady, albeit lower, returns.

Investing in Gold: Methods
Physical Gold
Tangible Asset: Can be held in the form of jewellery or coins.

Storage Costs: Requires secure storage, which may incur costs.

Gold ETFs
Ease of Trading: Traded on the stock exchange.

No Storage Costs: Eliminates the need for physical storage.

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)
Interest Income: Offers annual interest apart from capital appreciation.

Tax Benefits: Tax exemptions on redemption after maturity.

Disadvantages of Direct Gold Investment
Physical Gold
Making Charges: Adds to the cost when buying jewellery.

Security Concerns: Risk of theft or loss.

Gold ETFs
Market Dependent: Prices can fluctuate based on market conditions.

No Tangible Asset: Lacks the physical ownership aspect.

Diversifying Your Portfolio
Balanced Approach: Combine gold with equity and debt funds.

Risk Management: Diversification reduces overall investment risk.

Assessing Your Investment Horizon
5-6 Years Perspective
Gold can be a good investment for 5-6 years.

It may not offer the highest returns but provides stability.

Best Practices for Investing in Gold
Regular Investment
Invest regularly to average out the cost.

Consider a systematic investment plan for gold ETFs or SGBs.

Monitoring Market Conditions
Keep an eye on economic indicators.

Adjust your investments based on market trends.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 15,000 in gold regularly can yield good returns over 5-6 years. Gold acts as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties. While it may not provide the highest returns compared to equities, it offers stability. Diversify your portfolio by combining gold with equity and debt funds. Regularly monitor your investments and adjust based on market conditions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 20, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 11, 2025Hindi
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Money
I want to buy one gram gold every month for my girl child. Currently she is 6 yrs old. Next 15 years I would like to do sip of one gram gold per month. Which is the best way to do it?
Ans: Buying gold monthly for your girl child is a thoughtful plan. It secures her future financially.

Your goal of accumulating gold consistently for 15 years is achievable. A systematic approach is essential.

Key Considerations for Gold Investment
1. Understand Gold’s Role in Your Portfolio

Gold acts as a hedge against inflation.

It adds stability to your portfolio during economic uncertainties.

Gold should not exceed 10–15% of your overall investment portfolio.

2. Focus on Long-Term Value Appreciation

Gold prices fluctuate in the short term but appreciate over time.

A disciplined approach ensures you buy gold at different price points.

3. Prioritise Safety and Purity

Ensure the gold you buy is genuine and certified.

Avoid sources that compromise on quality or transparency.

Best Ways to Invest in Gold
1. Physical Gold

Buying one gram of physical gold monthly is a direct option.

Opt for BIS Hallmarked gold to ensure quality and purity.

Keep your gold secure, as physical gold carries theft risk.

Storing gold in lockers incurs extra charges.

2. Digital Gold

Digital gold allows you to buy gold online in small quantities.

It eliminates the need for physical storage and reduces risk.

Sellers store your gold in insured lockers.

However, some providers charge maintenance or storage fees.

3. Gold Savings Schemes by Jewellers

Many jewellers offer monthly savings schemes.

After the tenure, you can use the accumulated amount to buy gold.

Check for hidden charges and ensure the scheme is reliable.

4. Gold Mutual Funds or Gold ETFs

Gold mutual funds invest in gold bullion or related securities.

They offer flexibility, liquidity, and professional management.

Gold ETFs trade on stock exchanges and have transparent pricing.

Regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner provide better insights and ongoing support.

Avoid direct funds, as they lack expert guidance.

Factors to Evaluate Before Choosing an Option
1. Cost Efficiency

Compare costs like making charges, locker fees, or fund management fees.

Opt for an option that minimises recurring expenses.

2. Liquidity and Accessibility

Digital gold, gold ETFs, and mutual funds are easy to buy and sell.

Physical gold may require additional effort for transactions.

3. Tax Implications

Gold investments attract tax on profits when sold.

Physical gold and digital gold have similar tax rules.

Gold mutual funds or ETFs fall under mutual fund taxation norms.

Building a Comprehensive Plan
1. Start Early and Stay Consistent

Begin your SIP of one gram gold monthly without delay.

Consistency ensures you achieve your target in 15 years.

2. Combine Gold with Other Investments

Diversify your portfolio for better financial security.

Mutual funds, bonds, and FDs can complement gold investments.

3. Monitor and Reassess Periodically

Review your gold investments annually to check progress.

Adjust strategies if market or personal circumstances change.

Ensuring a Secure Future
1. Focus on Financial Education

Teach your child about saving and investing.

This knowledge will help her manage wealth in the future.

2. Build an Emergency Fund

Maintain a separate fund for unforeseen expenses.

This ensures you don’t sell gold prematurely.

3. Insure Your Life and Health

Adequate insurance secures your child’s future even in emergencies.
Final Insights
Investing in gold monthly for your child’s future is a wise choice. With proper planning and execution, you can build a substantial gold reserve. A Certified Financial Planner can guide you in selecting the best option and ensuring it aligns with your overall financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |103 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Mar 04, 2025

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Hi Mam, Hope you are doing well. I am very worried about my son who is now 12.5 years old and studying in 7th standard in a very reputed school. Since childhood, he has no interest in studies, unless we doesn't seat in front of him, he doesn't study. Every teacher from his kindergarten days upto now has the same complaint that he is doesn't pay attention in class and the result is he doesn't get good marks in the exam. When we scold him for studies, he does it for that particular time only and then get back to his non-interest mode again and start to run from studies. He will play video games, goes to play around with his friends, he will find some or the other reason for not doing studies or homework. The irony is that he is not interested in any sports or any other kind of activities. In every summer holidays, we make him to join some sports or music classes, but there also he doesn't show interest and do things just for the sake of showing. From last year, we have started sending him to tuitions also, but no change in attitude. This year we have found a teacher of his reputed school who is retired and taking tuitions, we are sending him to her and she is charging a big amount for tuitions. please guide how can we change his attitude and make him more serious in any activity he does as he doesn't have interest in anything (we have observed doing everything we can).
Ans: Hello Sunil!!

I am doing great, thank you for asking, God bless you!

I can totally understand when you say you are worried.

Your son is 12.5, he will soon be a teenager. There will be different challenges, I want you to read up on parenting a teenager and be ready to handle him well.

The problem as I see it is that everyone of you, his teachers included have made studies like a burden for him.... and subjected the young child to a lot of anxiety, he just wants to run away form it....
"Every teacher from his kindergarten days upto now has the same complaint that he is doesn't pay attention in class".... this statement of yours... it is the teacher's duty to ensure the child listens to him/her, how can she start labeling a child like this. From a young age your son has been conditioned to believe that he is not not good in studies, he doesn't focus and he doesn't sit in one place. All my sympathies are with your son...every child comes with immense potential and it's our duty as parents and teachers to nurture the child.

The following is what I propose so that we bring him back to loving to learn ( not score marks, that should never be the barometer)-
1. Love your child the way he is now
2. Give him lot of positive strokes
3. Have one on one sessions for any activity you plan for him... let him choose the activity, empower him
4. choose a teacher, who can get along with him and help him develop a positive attitude towards studies and life in general
5. look for a school where they nurture him... not just a reputed one...less number of students and a teacher who is invested in her/ his students,

If you can connect with me, I can help him. Have had many a students in this kind situation.
This is my website..
https://transformme.co.in/

Loads of best wishes to the whole family..

...Read more

Archana

Archana Deshpande  |103 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Mar 04, 2025

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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