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54 yr old, 2.5L monthly income, wants retirement corpus projection

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8284 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 15, 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 - Nov 15, 2024Hindi
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Sir, Im 54 yrs, present monthly take home pay in hand of Rs.2.5Lacs after all I.Tax etc. deductions. Car EMI till Dec 2026 to be paid will be Rs.5000 per month. Have Health Insurance cover for 25 lacs, Term Insurance for Rs.2Crores but no Life Insurance cover. Monthly SIP is Rs.1Lac. Had made a lump-sum investment of Rs.55Lacs in Mutual Fund which is now valued around Rs.75Lacs. I'm not able to save anything beyond this due to family responsibilities and have to start repaying my son's education loan of Rs.20Lacs which would commence after 2.5 years (as he is studying now). Can you please let me know how much of corpus I might have at the time of my retirement if I continue to work till the age of 58years? Regards

Ans: Based on the information you’ve shared, let us assess your situation and provide insights into your potential retirement corpus.

Current Financial Position
Take-home salary: Rs. 2.5 Lacs per month
Car EMI: Rs. 5,000 per month (ending Dec 2026)
Health insurance: Rs. 25 Lacs
Term insurance: Rs. 2 Crores
Monthly SIP: Rs. 1 Lac
Lump-sum investment in mutual funds: Rs. 75 Lacs (current value)
Education loan repayment: Rs. 20 Lacs starting after 2.5 years
Retirement age: 58 years (4 years from now)
Assumptions for Projection
Your SIP of Rs. 1 Lac per month continues until retirement.
Your lump-sum mutual fund investment grows at an assumed annual rate of 10%.
Monthly SIP investments grow at an assumed annual rate of 10%.
Education loan repayment starts in 2.5 years. Let’s consider this doesn’t disrupt your SIPs.
Estimated Retirement Corpus
1. Growth of Existing Lump-Sum Investment
Current value: Rs. 75 Lacs
Growth for 4 years at 10%: Approximately Rs. 1.1 Crores
2. Future Value of Monthly SIPs
SIP: Rs. 1 Lac per month
Duration: 48 months (4 years)
Growth at 10%: Approximately Rs. 63 Lacs
Total Corpus at Retirement
Lump-sum mutual fund value: Rs. 1.1 Crores
SIP investments: Rs. 63 Lacs
Total corpus: Rs. 1.73 Crores
Recommendations
Education Loan Repayment: The repayment may require adjustments in your budget. Consider partial withdrawals or rebalancing investments if necessary to avoid disrupting your SIPs.
Increasing Savings: Once your car loan ends in 2026, channel the Rs. 5,000 EMI into SIPs to further enhance your corpus.
Financial Review: Regularly review your investments and retirement goals with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure alignment with market conditions.
Final Insights
If your investments grow at an average rate of 10%, you may have a retirement corpus of approximately Rs. 1.73 Crores by age 58. Focus on maintaining your SIP contributions and ensuring liquidity to manage upcoming education loan repayments effectively.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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  |8284 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 21, 2024Hindi
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Sir, i am 36 years old. Every month my take home salary is 70000. Already i am investment is 3500/- in sbi small cap on every month from last one year and i am in vesting 25000 in quant flexi cap, i had 1 crore term insurance and i want to retire at 45 years and how much corpus i will made?
Ans: Planning for Early Retirement: Building Your Corpus
Congratulations on your proactive approach towards financial planning and your aspiration for early retirement! Let's strategize to help you achieve your goal of retiring by the age of 45 with a sufficient corpus.

Assessing Your Current Financial Position
Income and Investments
Your monthly take-home salary of ?70,000 provides a solid foundation for savings and investment.
Currently, you are investing ?35,000 per month in SBI Small Cap Fund and ?25,000 per month in Quant Flexi Cap Fund.
Insurance Coverage
You have wisely secured a term insurance policy with a coverage of ?1 crore, ensuring financial protection for your family in case of any unforeseen events.
Estimating Retirement Corpus
Retirement Age and Expected Corpus
With the goal of retiring at 45 years, you have approximately 9 years left to accumulate a sufficient corpus for retirement.
Estimate your desired retirement corpus based on your expected expenses and lifestyle needs post-retirement.
Monthly Savings Requirement
Determine the monthly savings required to achieve your retirement goal within the specified timeframe.
Consider factors such as inflation, investment returns, and risk tolerance when projecting your savings target.
Investment Strategy for Early Retirement
Asset Allocation
Review your current investment portfolio and asset allocation to ensure alignment with your retirement objectives.
Consider diversifying across different asset classes to spread risk and optimize returns.
Risk Management
Evaluate the risk-return profile of your investment portfolio and make adjustments based on your risk tolerance and time horizon.
Ensure a balanced approach to risk management, considering both growth-oriented and stable investment options.
Retirement Planning Considerations
Lifestyle Expectations
Assess your post-retirement lifestyle expectations and determine the level of income required to maintain your desired standard of living.
Account for factors such as healthcare expenses, travel, and leisure activities when estimating your retirement budget.
Long-Term Financial Security
Plan for long-term financial security by incorporating provisions for healthcare expenses, inflation, and unexpected contingencies into your retirement plan.
Consider setting aside a contingency fund to cover emergencies and unforeseen expenses during retirement.
Conclusion: A Path to Financial Freedom
By adopting a disciplined savings and investment approach, you can work towards achieving your goal of early retirement with confidence and financial security.

Seek Professional Guidance
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to develop a customized retirement plan tailored to your specific needs and objectives. A CFP can provide personalized advice and guidance to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning and ensure a smooth transition into your golden years.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8284 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 25, 2024Hindi
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I am 58 years old. Currently I have 1.8 cr in mutual fund. 79 lakhs in Equity. 75 laks in PF. 10Lakhs in NPS. 10Lakhs in PPF. Monthly SIP of 1L. How much corpus I can expect when I retire Jan Jan 2027. I want to have monthly steady income if 2 Lakhs when I retire.
Ans: At 58 years old, you have a diverse portfolio, including:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 1.8 crore
Equity: Rs. 79 lakh
Provident Fund (PF): Rs. 75 lakh
National Pension System (NPS): Rs. 10 lakh
Public Provident Fund (PPF): Rs. 10 lakh
Monthly SIP: Rs. 1 lakh
This well-diversified portfolio provides a strong foundation for your retirement planning.

Estimating the Corpus at Retirement
Given your assets and continued contributions, let's estimate the corpus by January 2027.

Mutual Funds Growth
Your current mutual fund investments of Rs. 1.8 crore, with continued monthly SIP of Rs. 1 lakh for three years, can grow significantly, assuming a reasonable growth rate.
If we consider a conservative growth rate of 10-12% per annum, the corpus could expand to a substantial amount by your retirement.
Equity Growth
The Rs. 79 lakh in direct equity, depending on market conditions and stock selection, could also grow at an average rate of 10-12% per annum.
However, equity investments carry more risk, and the returns can be volatile.
Provident Fund (PF) Growth
The Rs. 75 lakh in your PF account is relatively stable, growing at a rate of around 8-8.5% per annum.
This amount will also compound until your retirement, adding to your retirement corpus.
NPS Growth
The Rs. 10 lakh in NPS will continue to grow, offering tax benefits and a mix of equity and debt exposure.
PPF Growth
The Rs. 10 lakh in PPF will grow at a rate of 7-7.5% per annum, providing a stable, tax-free return.
Total Expected Corpus at Retirement
Considering all these factors, your total corpus by January 2027 could range between Rs. 4-5 crore. This includes growth from mutual funds, equity, PF, NPS, and PPF contributions.

Planning for a Steady Monthly Income of Rs. 2 Lakh
To achieve a monthly income of Rs. 2 lakh post-retirement, you need a robust withdrawal strategy.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
An SWP from your mutual fund investments can provide a steady income.
If you withdraw Rs. 2 lakh per month, that would amount to Rs. 24 lakh annually.
With a well-balanced portfolio, a withdrawal rate of 5-6% is considered safe to avoid depleting your corpus.
Annuity Consideration
While not the first recommendation, you could consider converting a portion of your corpus into an annuity.
Annuities offer a guaranteed monthly income, but they usually offer lower returns and less flexibility compared to mutual funds.
Managing Your Portfolio for Retirement
Balanced Approach: As you approach retirement, consider shifting a portion of your equity investments to more stable debt instruments to reduce risk.
Diversification: Keep your portfolio diversified across various asset classes to manage risk and ensure steady returns.
Regular Review: Continuously review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed, considering changes in market conditions and personal circumstances.
Final Insights
By maintaining a disciplined approach and sticking to your financial plan, you can achieve your retirement goals. A diversified portfolio, coupled with a well-planned withdrawal strategy, can provide the steady income you seek.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8284 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 58 years old. Currently I have 3.8 cr in mutual fund. 79 lakhs in Equity. 75 laks in PF. 10Lakhs in NPS. 10Lakhs in PPF. Monthly SIP of 1L. How much corpus I can expect when I retire Jan Jan 2027. I want to have monthly steady income if 2 Lakhs when I retire.
Ans: You are 58 years old and have built a substantial investment portfolio. Your portfolio includes Rs. 3.8 crore in mutual funds, Rs. 79 lakhs in equity, Rs. 75 lakhs in Provident Fund (PF), Rs. 10 lakhs in the National Pension System (NPS), and Rs. 10 lakhs in Public Provident Fund (PPF). You also contribute Rs. 1 lakh per month through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP).

Your primary goal is to ensure a steady monthly income of Rs. 2 lakhs when you retire in January 2027. Let's evaluate how your current investments will help you achieve this goal.

Estimating the Retirement Corpus
To estimate the total corpus you can expect by January 2027, we need to consider your current investments, SIP contributions, and the expected returns from these investments.

Mutual Funds: Your Rs. 3.8 crore in mutual funds can grow significantly. The growth will depend on the market performance and the type of funds you hold.

Equity Investments: Your Rs. 79 lakhs in equity also has the potential for growth. Equity markets can be volatile, but over the long term, they generally provide good returns.

Provident Fund (PF): Your Rs. 75 lakhs in PF is a stable investment with a fixed return. The returns from PF are generally lower than equity but more secure.

National Pension System (NPS): Your Rs. 10 lakhs in NPS is also a long-term investment aimed at retirement. It provides a mix of equity and debt exposure.

Public Provident Fund (PPF): Your Rs. 10 lakhs in PPF is another stable investment with a fixed return.

Monthly SIP: Your monthly SIP of Rs. 1 lakh will continue to add to your corpus. SIPs in mutual funds are a disciplined way to invest regularly and benefit from market fluctuations.

Projected Retirement Corpus
Without diving into specific calculations, we can project that your current investments, combined with your ongoing SIPs, should grow substantially by January 2027. The key factors influencing the growth will be:

Market Performance: If the market performs well, your equity and mutual fund investments can see significant growth.

Interest Rates: The returns from PF, NPS, and PPF will depend on the prevailing interest rates. These investments provide stability but with lower growth potential compared to equity.

SIP Contributions: Your ongoing SIPs will continue to compound over time. The disciplined approach of SIPs can create a significant corpus by the time you retire.

Achieving a Steady Monthly Income Post-Retirement
Your goal of having a steady monthly income of Rs. 2 lakhs is achievable. Here’s how you can structure your retirement income:

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): One way to achieve a steady income is through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from your mutual funds. An SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount every month, providing you with a steady income while your investments continue to grow.

Diversified Income Sources: You can also diversify your income sources by allocating some of your corpus to different types of investments. For instance, a mix of debt funds, dividend-paying equity funds, and fixed deposits can provide stability and income.

Interest and Dividends: The interest from your PF, PPF, and NPS, along with dividends from equity investments, can contribute to your monthly income. These are more stable income sources compared to market-linked investments.

Laddering Fixed Deposits: You can ladder your fixed deposits to mature at different intervals. This way, you will have a steady flow of income at different stages of your retirement.

Role of Inflation in Retirement Planning
It’s crucial to account for inflation in your retirement planning. Inflation erodes the purchasing power of your money over time, which means you will need more money in the future to maintain the same lifestyle.

Inflation-Adjusted Income: Your retirement corpus should be large enough to provide an inflation-adjusted income. This means that while Rs. 2 lakhs per month may be sufficient today, you may need more in the future due to inflation.

Regular Portfolio Review: Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it is keeping up with inflation. You may need to adjust your investment strategy to maintain your desired lifestyle.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Your portfolio includes significant investments in mutual funds. It's essential to continue focusing on actively managed funds rather than index funds. Here’s why:

Outperformance Potential: Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform the market, especially in a dynamic market like India. Fund managers can make informed decisions to maximize returns.

Risk Management: Fund managers actively manage risks by adjusting the portfolio based on market conditions. This flexibility is not available in index funds, which passively track an index.

Customized Strategy: Active funds allow fund managers to implement strategies tailored to market conditions and specific goals. This can result in better returns compared to index funds, which simply mirror the market.

Advantages of Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
You may also be considering whether to invest in direct or regular mutual funds. Here’s why regular funds, managed by a Certified Financial Planner, may be more suitable for you:

Professional Guidance: Regular funds offer the benefit of professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). This ensures your investments are aligned with your financial goals.

Portfolio Monitoring: A CFP continuously monitors your portfolio and makes necessary adjustments. This helps optimize your returns and manage risks.

Convenience and Expertise: Investing through a CFP provides convenience and the expertise needed to navigate complex financial markets. Direct funds do not offer this level of personalized service.

Comprehensive Retirement Strategy
Given your current investments, you are well-positioned to achieve your retirement goals. However, it’s important to have a comprehensive retirement strategy that considers all aspects of your financial situation.

Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund in place to cover unexpected expenses. This should be easily accessible and not tied up in long-term investments.

Health Insurance: Adequate health insurance is crucial as medical expenses can be significant during retirement. Review your health insurance coverage to ensure it is sufficient.

Estate Planning: Consider your estate planning needs, including creating a will and designating beneficiaries for your investments. This will ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Tax Planning: Effective tax planning can help you maximize your retirement income. Consider tax-efficient investments and strategies to minimize your tax liability.

Final Insights
You have built a strong financial foundation with diversified investments. Your goal of achieving a monthly income of Rs. 2 lakhs post-retirement is within reach. Continue focusing on growing your retirement corpus while managing risks. Regular reviews and adjustments, along with professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner, will help you achieve your retirement goals and enjoy a comfortable, financially secure retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4453 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 23, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 23, 2025
Career
My daughter 90percentile in jee mains 2025,and puc board exam 95.6 percentage and kcet is 101 marks we are obc ncl and catgory 1 reservation can we get nit surathkal college for admission or other top 3 college in bangalore and she want to take jee advance 2025 , which branchas scope and high package
Ans: As far as KCET is concerned,? here are the some approximate expected KCET opening and closing ranks for the OBC-NCL category across four top engineering colleges in Bengaluru:?

RV College of Engineering (RVCE)
Computer Science & Engineering: Opening – 2,000 | Closing – 3,000
Electronics & Communication Engineering: Opening – 2,500 | Closing – 3,500
Electrical & Electronics Engineering: Opening – 3,000 | Closing – 4,500
Mechanical Engineering: Opening – 4,000 | Closing – 6,000
Civil Engineering: Opening – 5,000 | Closing – 7,000?

BMS College of Engineering (BMSCE)
Computer Science & Engineering: Opening – 2,500 | Closing – 4,000
Electronics & Communication Engineering: Opening – 3,000 | Closing – 5,000
Electrical & Electronics Engineering: Opening – 4,500 | Closing – 6,500
Mechanical Engineering: Opening – 6,000 | Closing – 8,000
Civil Engineering: Opening – 7,000 | Closing – 9,000?

M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology (MSRIT)
Computer Science & Engineering: Opening – 2,200 | Closing – 3,800
Electronics & Communication Engineering: Opening – 3,500 | Closing – 5,500
Electrical & Electronics Engineering: Opening – 5,000 | Closing – 7,000
Mechanical Engineering: Opening – 6,500 | Closing – 8,500
Civil Engineering: Opening – 7,500 | Closing – 9,500?

Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering (DSCE)
Computer Science & Engineering: Opening – 3,000 | Closing – 5,000
Electronics & Communication Engineering: Opening – 4,500 | Closing – 6,500
Electrical & Electronics Engineering: Opening – 6,000 | Closing – 8,000
Mechanical Engineering: Opening – 7,500 | Closing – 9,500
Civil Engineering: Opening – 8,500 | Closing – 10,500?

Note: The above ranks are indicative and based on available data for the OBC-NCL category. Every year, actual cutoffs may vary based on factors like seat availability, reservation policies, and candidate preferences.

?Regarding the chances of getting seats through JEE/JoSAA Counselling, here is, How to Predict Your Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main Results – A Step-by-Step Guide.

Providing precise admission chances for each student can be challenging. Some reputed educational websites offer ‘College Predictor’ tools where you can check possible college options based on your percentile, category, and preferences. However, for a more accurate understanding, here’s a simple yet effective 9-step method using JoSAA’s past-year opening and closing ranks. This approach gives you a fair estimate (though not 100% exact) of your admission chances based on the previous year’s data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Daughter's Admission Chances Using JoSAA Data
Step 1: Collect Your Daughter's Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Her JEE Main percentile
Her category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Her Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Her Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If your daughter is open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select her Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories.
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.

Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engineering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your daughter's admissions!

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4453 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 23, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 23, 2025
Career
I got 98.02%ile in JEE MAINS session 2 . (EWS) Can I get TOP NIT (CSE) ?? EWS RANK 4146
Ans: Here is, How to Predict Your Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main Results – A Step-by-Step Guide.

Providing precise admission chances for each student can be challenging. Some reputed educational websites offer ‘College Predictor’ tools where you can check possible college options based on your percentile, category, and preferences. However, for a more accurate understanding, here’s a simple yet effective 9-step method using JoSAA’s past-year opening and closing ranks. This approach gives you a fair estimate (though not 100% exact) of your admission chances based on the previous year’s data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Admission Chances Using JoSAA Data
Step 1: Collect Your Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your JEE Main percentile
Your category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Your Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories.
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.

Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engineering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your admissions!

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8284 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 23, 2025

Money
Hello Sir. I currently have a home loan of 52 lakhs with 16 years remaining on the tenure. Following the recent RBI repo rate update, my interest rate has been reduced to 8%. I now have a lump sum of 5 lakhs available. Could you please advise whether it's more beneficial to use this amount to make a prepayment towards the principal of my home loan or to invest it in stocks or mutual funds? Which option would offer better financial returns in the long run - closing the loan early or investing for potential growth?
Ans: Many banks have marginally reduced home loan interest rates, and your current rate at 8% is already among the better ones in the market.

Now, let's evaluate your decision clearly and simply — whether to use the Rs. 5 lakh lump sum to prepay your home loan or invest it for long-term growth.

 

Understanding the Current Loan and Investment Scenario
You have a home loan of Rs. 52 lakh.

 

The remaining tenure is 16 years.

 

Current interest rate is 8% per annum.

 

You have Rs. 5 lakh available for use.

 

You are thinking whether to prepay or invest.

 

This is a common and important financial decision.

 

We must assess it from all angles before choosing.

 

The right decision depends on goal, emotion, tax, and future cash flows.

 

Emotional Perspective: Peace of Mind vs. Growth
Prepaying reduces debt. It gives mental peace.

 

You feel more in control. EMI burden reduces.

 

You sleep better with lower outstanding balance.

 

But it stops your money from growing faster.

 

Investing in mutual funds or stocks offers growth.

 

But it comes with risk and market ups and downs.

 

If peace matters more, prepaying makes sense.

 

If growth is your priority, investing is better.

 

Know what feels right to you emotionally first.

 

Loan Prepayment: What Happens Financially
Your interest rate is 8% now.

 

If you prepay Rs. 5 lakh, your total interest reduces.

 

Your tenure may reduce. Or EMI may reduce.

 

Prepayment early in the loan saves more interest.

 

It gives guaranteed return. No risk is involved.

 

The effective return is same as your loan rate.

 

So, prepayment offers you a risk-free 8% return.

 

There is no tax to pay for this gain.

 

It is also simple and stress-free to do.

 

But once paid, that money is locked.

 

You can’t use it again unless you refinance.

 

Prepaying also lowers your home loan tax benefits.

 

Home Loan Tax Benefits You Must Consider
You claim Rs. 2 lakh yearly deduction on interest.

 

You also claim Rs. 1.5 lakh under 80C for principal.

 

These benefits reduce your taxable income.

 

So, effective cost of loan is less than 8%.

 

If you prepay, these benefits reduce or stop.

 

That means you lose part of the tax advantage.

 

If your tax slab is 30%, loan cost is closer to 5.6%.

 

In this case, investing may be better long-term.

 

Investing That Rs. 5 Lakh: Pros and Potential
You can invest in mutual funds for long-term.

 

Equity mutual funds can deliver 10% to 12% annually.

 

Over 10 to 15 years, it may grow 3-4x.

 

You also maintain liquidity with this approach.

 

You can withdraw in emergencies if needed.

 

Mutual funds are flexible and diversified.

 

Choose actively managed mutual funds only.

 

Do not invest in index funds.

 

Index funds just follow the market. No expert help.

 

In falling markets, index funds fall sharply.

 

They do not protect downside risk.

 

Skilled fund managers in active funds manage risks.

 

They can outperform the market over long term.

 

Actively managed funds offer better returns potential.

 

Also avoid direct plans without guidance.

 

Direct funds save cost, but lack expert advice.

 

You may pick wrong funds or exit at wrong time.

 

Regular plans through MFDs with CFPs offer support.

 

They help with reviews, rebalancing, and discipline.

 

That adds more value than low fees of direct plans.

 

So, choose regular funds with an MFD having CFP tag.

 

If you invest Rs. 5 lakh today in such funds, it can grow well.

 

Your Risk Appetite and Financial Behaviour
Are you okay with market ups and downs?

 

Can you avoid panic during a fall?

 

Can you hold on for 10-15 years?

 

If yes, investing is good for you.

 

If no, then prepaying loan is safer.

 

You must assess your risk profile.

 

Talk to a Certified Financial Planner for help.

 

Choose the option that matches your risk appetite.

 

Liquidity and Emergency Planning
Once you prepay, the Rs. 5 lakh is gone.

 

You can't get it back easily.

 

That reduces your liquidity.

 

If you invest instead, you keep access.

 

That money can be withdrawn in emergencies.

 

Liquidity is important in uncertain times.

 

Always maintain an emergency fund.

 

It should cover 6 to 12 months’ expenses.

 

Prepay only if this fund is already ready.

 

Don’t use all cash for prepayment.

 

Keep some buffer aside always.

 

Opportunity Cost of Prepaying vs Investing
Prepaying gives 8% return. No risk.

 

Investing can give 10% to 12%, but with risk.

 

Over long term, investing can give more wealth.

 

But returns are not guaranteed.

 

You may see short term losses too.

 

But with 15+ years holding, risk reduces.

 

If goal is wealth creation, investing wins.

 

If goal is safety and less EMI, prepaying wins.

 

Choose based on what matters more.

 

Use Balanced Approach: Prepay + Invest
You don’t need to do only one thing.

 

You can divide Rs. 5 lakh into two parts.

 

For example, prepay Rs. 2 lakh.

 

Invest Rs. 3 lakh in mutual funds.

 

This gives you lower EMI or tenure.

 

Also helps grow wealth for the long term.

 

This gives you mental peace and future returns.

 

It is a balanced and smart approach.

 

It avoids regret in future.

 

You win both ways – safety and growth.

 

Ensure your emergency fund is not affected.

 

Check if your mutual fund portfolio is aligned.

 

Take help from a CFP-backed mutual fund distributor.

 

Review your portfolio every year.

 

Stay invested without panic during market falls.

 

That is how wealth creation happens.

 

Final Insights
You are thinking wisely about using your Rs. 5 lakh lump sum.

Prepaying the home loan gives peace and fixed savings. It is a safe path.

But investing in mutual funds has higher potential returns. It needs patience.

There is no single “correct” answer. Both are good depending on your goal.

If safety and peace are top priority, prepaying is better.

If long-term growth is your goal, then invest in mutual funds.

Ideally, a 50-50 approach works best for most people.

It gives balance. And keeps options open.

Review this decision every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

That ensures your financial journey stays on the right path.

  

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8284 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 23, 2025

Money
Hi I am 29 yrs old and a middle class salaried person. Currently i am having an investemnt of Rs. 4400 in MF scatered equally in 4 different MF mentioned below from last 1 yr with 10% increase in investment annually. ICICI Pru Bharat 22 FOF - Growth - Rs 1100/m SBI PSU Fund - Growth - Rs 1100/m Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund - Growth - Rs 1100/m Nippon India Smallcap Fund - Growth - Rs 1100/m Apart from the above investment I am also invested in NPS (kotak NPS) from last 1 yr with Rs 5000/m. Also I have a RD of Rs 30000/m going since last 9 months matures in 15 month from this will be allocating half of the funds for emergency or liquid funds and the other half want to invest as lumpsum in MF. I want to build a good amount of wealth for my retirement by the age of 60. Also want to buy a home of my own. Are the investment listed above enough and which MF to choose for lumpsum investment. Thank you.
Ans: You Have Made a Good Start
You are 29 years old and already investing monthly in mutual funds.

You are also investing in NPS regularly, which helps in retirement planning.

Saving Rs 30,000 per month in RD shows good discipline and consistency.

You have a clear goal of retirement at 60 and buying your own house.

Your financial awareness at this age is impressive and rare.

Current Mutual Fund Allocation Needs Restructuring
You are investing in sectoral and mid/small-cap funds.

These carry high risk and are not suitable as core portfolio.

They are good for extra returns, not for stability and long-term balance.

Consider including large-cap and flexi-cap funds to create a strong core.

These funds offer growth with better risk management.

Annual SIP Hike Is a Wise Habit
Increasing SIPs by 10% yearly builds a strong compounding habit.

It helps you keep pace with inflation and rising future costs.

Continue this pattern every year, even during volatile markets.

Use the RD Maturity Smartly
Once RD matures, split the money as you planned.

Keep half in an emergency or liquid fund.

Invest the other half in mutual funds through STP.

STP spreads the lump sum over time and avoids market timing risk.

NPS Is a Long-Term Asset
Keep investing in NPS for retirement benefit and tax savings.

Ensure you select the right asset mix in NPS.

NPS allows equity allocation up to a limit.

The right mix can help grow your retirement corpus better.

Emergency Fund Should Be a Priority
Emergency fund should cover six months of expenses.

Use low-risk, liquid options to store this fund.

It protects you during income loss or sudden costs.

Buy Insurance Independently
Do not depend only on your employer’s health and term cover.

Personal term insurance gives you full control.

It is important if you have dependents or plan to take a home loan.

Health insurance must also be purchased personally.

Medical costs are rising fast and can strain your savings.

Buying a Home Needs Planning
Fix a timeline and estimate the cost of your home.

Based on that, calculate the money needed over the years.

Save for home separately from your retirement fund.

For short-term goals like this, do not use equity funds.

Instead, use safer options like short-duration debt funds.

Avoid Index Funds for Your Profile
Index funds simply copy the market and cannot protect downside.

You need active fund managers to handle your investments.

They aim to beat the market and reduce volatility impact.

Active funds offer better balance of growth and protection.

Avoid Direct Funds If You Want Guidance
Direct funds have lower cost but no advice or strategy support.

Mistakes can happen without expert review and monitoring.

Regular funds via a professional help you stay disciplined.

Portfolio review, fund switch, and rebalancing are handled.

This adds value in the long term beyond just cost savings.

Tax Rules You Should Know
Long-term capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains from equity funds are taxed at 20%.

Debt funds are taxed as per your income slab.

Always check tax impact before redeeming your investments.

Step-by-Step Actions to Take
Rebuild your SIP portfolio to include large-cap and flexi-cap funds.

Retain small/mid-cap funds but with a smaller share.

Build a 6-month emergency fund first from RD maturity.

Invest lump sum from RD slowly over 6-12 months via STP.

Buy term insurance and health insurance right away.

Continue NPS with equity tilt for growth.

Start a separate saving bucket for home purchase.

Review your SIPs every year and increase as your income grows.

Keep tracking your goal progress at least once a year.

Finally
You have laid a strong base early in your life.

Keep this momentum with annual review and disciplined savings.

Use every salary hike to increase your investments.

Avoid unnecessary loans and credit card expenses.

Follow your plan and seek help when needed.

Focus on long-term wealth and risk protection, not short-term returns.

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

...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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