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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Iam a retired person. Now only shear trading . Before I have more money loss.

Ans: It's commendable that you're seeking advice to secure your financial future after retirement. Share trading can be quite volatile and risky, especially if you have experienced significant losses in the past. Let’s discuss how mutual funds can be a safer and more effective way to manage your investments post-retirement.

Understanding Your Current Situation
Past Experiences with Share Trading
You mentioned experiencing significant losses through share trading. This is a common scenario as the stock market can be unpredictable. Share trading requires extensive knowledge, time, and a high-risk tolerance. Post-retirement, it's crucial to prioritize stability and regular income.

The Need for Stability and Regular Income
As a retiree, your primary goal should be to preserve your capital and ensure a steady income stream. Unlike during your working years, you no longer have a regular salary to fall back on, making prudent investment choices essential.

Why Mutual Funds are Suitable for Retirees
Professional Management
Mutual funds are managed by professional fund managers who have expertise in selecting and managing a diversified portfolio of assets. This reduces the burden on you to actively manage and monitor investments.

Diversification
Mutual funds offer diversification by investing in a variety of securities. This helps spread risk across different asset classes, industries, and geographies, thereby reducing the impact of any single investment's poor performance on your overall portfolio.

Lower Risk Compared to Direct Stock Trading
Direct stock trading can be highly volatile and risky. Mutual funds, especially those with a conservative approach like debt funds or balanced funds, offer a more stable and predictable performance, aligning better with the needs of retirees.

Regular Income Options
Certain types of mutual funds, like monthly income plans (MIPs) and systematic withdrawal plans (SWPs), are designed to provide regular income. This can be beneficial for meeting your day-to-day expenses without having to worry about the market's fluctuations.

Tax Efficiency
Mutual funds, particularly equity-linked savings schemes (ELSS), can offer tax benefits. Even without the tax benefits, mutual funds can be more tax-efficient compared to fixed deposits and other traditional saving instruments, especially considering long-term capital gains tax advantages.

Transitioning from Share Trading to Mutual Funds
Evaluating Your Risk Tolerance
Given your past losses in share trading, it's essential to reassess your risk tolerance. Post-retirement, you should focus on low-risk or moderate-risk investments that provide stable returns.

Choosing the Right Types of Mutual Funds
Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds invest in fixed income instruments like bonds, government securities, and corporate debt. They offer relatively lower risk and stable returns, making them suitable for retirees.

Balanced or Hybrid Funds
Balanced or hybrid funds invest in both equities and debt instruments. They provide a balance between growth and stability, making them a good option if you're looking for moderate risk and return.

Monthly Income Plans (MIPs)
MIPs primarily invest in debt instruments with a small portion in equities. They are designed to provide regular income, which can be beneficial for meeting monthly expenses.

Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs)
SWPs allow you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly from your mutual fund investments. This ensures a steady cash flow while your remaining investment continues to grow.

Setting Up a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
If you still have a lump sum amount to invest, consider setting up a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, reducing the impact of market volatility and providing the benefit of rupee cost averaging.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
Given the complexities involved in transitioning your investment strategy, consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can be immensely beneficial. They can provide personalized advice based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

Implementing Your New Investment Strategy
Reallocating Your Funds
Gradually move your investments from high-risk shares to mutual funds. This transition should be done systematically to avoid significant market impact and to benefit from potential short-term gains in shares.

Monitoring and Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Regularly monitor your mutual fund portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation and risk level.

Leveraging SWPs for Regular Income
Set up SWPs in your mutual fund investments to provide a steady stream of income. This can help cover your regular expenses and provide financial stability.

Final Insights
Switching from share trading to mutual funds can significantly enhance your financial security post-retirement. Mutual funds offer professional management, diversification, lower risk, regular income options, and tax efficiency, making them an ideal choice for retirees.

By evaluating your risk tolerance, choosing the right types of mutual funds, setting up SIPs, and consulting a Certified Financial Planner, you can create a stable and growth-oriented investment portfolio. Regular monitoring and rebalancing will ensure your investments remain aligned with your financial goals.

Your past experiences with share trading have taught you valuable lessons. Now, with a focused approach towards mutual funds, you can achieve financial stability and peace of mind. Embrace this new strategy to secure a comfortable and worry-free retirement.

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  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 16, 2024Hindi
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1 am aged 71 retired govt officer drawing pension about 37000 having small commitments monthly 10000 and having 50000 rs to investin trading having no other investments or savings and assets. Kindly tell me best advice even hearafter i can invest for short future.
Ans: Considering your age and financial situation, it's crucial to prioritize capital preservation and generate a steady income. Here's some advice tailored to your needs:

Emergency Fund: Maintain a separate emergency fund equivalent to at least 6-12 months of expenses from your pension.

Investment: With 50,000 for trading, consider low-risk options like fixed deposits or Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) offering higher interest rates and safety.

Regular Income: Invest a portion in Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) or Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) to generate regular monthly income.

Diversification: Don't put all your money in one place. Diversify across various low-risk options to reduce risk.

Avoid High-Risk Investments: Given your age and limited savings, avoid high-risk investments like equities or derivatives.

Consult a Financial Advisor: Consider consulting a financial advisor who specializes in retirement planning to create a personalized investment plan tailored to your needs and risk tolerance.

Remember, the goal is to preserve capital, generate regular income, and maintain financial security during retirement. Always prioritize safety and liquidity over high returns given your financial situation.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 21, 2025

Money
Hi, i was experienced in Indian share market last 4 years.. Only option trading.. And i spend the money of 30 laks and also loss ah all money.. All money are lons, debits, credit cards, relatives money, and friends money.. I have no strategy.. Trade based on candlessticks. And market sentiment.. A have good knowledge for make money daily, 2000 to 5000 rs, have a capiral of 20000 rs.. But my situation was very worsted in financial.. Monthly need 90k to 1 laks, i donot follow the proper money management, but 100 % i sure i take profit.. I am was effected on physcology problem.. Please help me..
Ans: I really appreciate your honesty in sharing your financial journey. It takes courage to accept losses and still believe in your own skills. Many people hide their mistakes, but your openness is the first positive step. You still have hope, but now you need discipline and structure to rebuild. Let me guide you step by step with a 360-degree plan.

» Current Situation Analysis

You lost Rs. 30 lakhs in option trading.

All money came from loans, credit cards, relatives, and friends.

You have no capital now, except Rs. 20,000.

You believe you can earn Rs. 2,000–5,000 daily.

Your monthly need is Rs. 90,000 to Rs. 1 lakh.

You admit you lack money management discipline.

You also face psychological stress due to past losses.

This shows your financial condition is very critical. But you still have skills and income potential. What is needed is strong planning, debt strategy, and controlled trading.

» The Real Risk of Option Trading

Options trading is highly risky and volatile.

Even experts with 20 years of experience struggle to earn daily profits.

Candle patterns and market sentiment are not enough.

No one can give 100% sure profit in daily trades.

You may feel confident, but overconfidence has already cost Rs. 30 lakhs.

Small gains look attractive, but one wrong trade can wipe everything again.

Trading with borrowed money creates fear and greed, which blocks judgment.

You must accept that options cannot be your only income source now.

» Immediate Priorities to Stabilise Life

Stop trading with borrowed money completely.

Stop daily trading until you create proper emergency fund.

Reduce monthly lifestyle expenses. Cut all non-essential spending.

Talk to family and explain the truth. Hiding will increase pressure.

Seek professional counselling for your psychological stress. Mental health is critical.

Protect health by keeping insurance active.

Without stability in mind and expenses, you cannot come out of this cycle.

» Debt Management Approach

Your Rs. 30 lakhs debt is spread across banks, relatives, and friends.

First list down clearly: how much to each person, what interest rate, what timeline.

Divide debts into high-cost and low-cost.

High-cost debts: credit cards, personal loans.

Medium debts: bank loans with lower interest.

Soft debts: relatives and friends, but here trust is involved.

You cannot repay all quickly. So you need step-by-step.

» Action Plan for High-Cost Loans

Focus first on credit card dues. They charge very high interest.

Take a consolidation loan if possible to reduce interest.

Pay minimum dues on others, but aggressively clear credit cards.

This will reduce monthly outgo and pressure.

» Action Plan for Personal Loans

After credit card clearance, focus on personal loan EMIs.

Try for restructuring if EMI is too high.

Negotiate with banks for longer tenure to reduce EMI.

Extra income from side work should go here.

» Action Plan for Relatives and Friends

Speak honestly with them.

Assure them of gradual repayment, not immediate.

Start paying them in small amounts regularly.

This will maintain trust and reduce emotional stress.

» Building Stable Income Stream

Depending only on option trading is too risky.

You need alternate stable income sources.

Explore part-time job, freelancing, or teaching work.

Any skill like tuition, delivery, or online services can help.

Even Rs. 20,000–30,000 extra stable income monthly will reduce loan pressure.

This will give breathing space to handle debts.

» Trading Should Be Secondary, Not Primary

Keep trading as skill development, not as main breadwinner.

Trade with only Rs. 5,000 or Rs. 10,000 capital, never more.

Trade only when your mind is calm, not stressed.

Follow strict stop-loss every time.

Withdraw profits regularly instead of reinvesting all.

Treat profits as bonus, not as salary replacement.

» Money Management Discipline

Divide your income into three parts:

50% for debt payments.

30% for living expenses.

20% for small investments and savings.

Track every rupee you spend.

Avoid unnecessary luxuries until debt is cleared.

Carry only one debit card, avoid multiple credit cards.

» Emergency Fund Requirement

Even Rs. 50,000 as buffer fund can save you from borrowing again.

Save small amounts monthly into a simple recurring deposit or liquid mutual fund.

This is your safety cushion when markets move against you.

» Investment for Future Stability

Once debts are under control, start SIPs in mutual funds.

Actively managed funds are better than index funds.

Index funds only mirror the market, so returns are average.

Actively managed funds have research and strategy to beat the market.

Also, regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner are safer.

Direct funds may look cheaper, but they give no guidance or support.

» Psychological Healing

Loss of Rs. 30 lakhs is a heavy emotional burden.

You may feel guilt, fear, and overconfidence at the same time.

Daily meditation and counselling can reduce pressure.

Focus on physical fitness too. Health gives mental clarity.

Forgive yourself for mistakes, and move forward.

» Family Support

Share your situation with close family.

Their emotional support will reduce your loneliness.

They may also help in small ways to reduce monthly burden.

Togetherness will give strength to rebuild.

» Long-Term Wealth Creation Goal

Right now, your goal should be debt clearance, not wealth building.

Wealth creation can start after stability is achieved.

In future, with SIP of Rs. 15,000–20,000 for 10 years, you can rebuild.

Mutual funds will help build corpus better than trading.

Patience and discipline will replace the losses of past.

» Risk Warnings You Must Always Remember

Never borrow for trading again.

Never treat option trading as fixed salary.

Never risk more than 5% of your capital on one trade.

Never ignore stop-loss.

Never mix personal loan money into the market again.

» Finally
Your story shows both pain and hope. You lost Rs. 30 lakhs, but you still have knowledge and experience. The road ahead is tough, but not impossible. First focus on clearing high-cost debts. Reduce lifestyle expenses. Find stable income outside trading. Keep trading very small and disciplined. Slowly build emergency fund, then begin small SIPs. Over years, your financial and mental health will improve. Remember, rebuilding wealth is possible, but rebuilding peace of mind is most important.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1840 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...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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