Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

Mid-Twenties, Investing Rs.25,000 Monthly: What Will My Future Returns Be & How Can I Improve?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 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
sandeep Question by sandeep on Jul 04, 2024Hindi
Money

I m investing 15000 per month in mutual fund and 10000 rs per month in PF nd 7000 in LIC ...what amount I will get in future and what extra I need ...??

Ans: Your current investments are well diversified. You invest Rs 15,000 monthly in mutual funds, Rs 10,000 in a provident fund (PF), and Rs 7,000 in LIC policies. Each of these has its benefits and limitations. Understanding these will help you gauge future returns.

Mutual Fund Investments
Investing Rs 15,000 monthly in mutual funds is a smart choice. Mutual funds provide the advantage of professional management. They also offer the potential for high returns. However, mutual funds carry market risk. It's essential to monitor their performance regularly.

Actively managed funds can outperform index funds. They offer the expertise of fund managers who adjust the portfolio to market conditions. This can lead to higher returns.

Mutual funds are best for long-term goals. Over time, compounding can significantly increase your returns. Staying invested for at least five years can help ride out market volatility.

Provident Fund Contributions
Your monthly contribution of Rs 10,000 to the provident fund is a secure investment. The PF offers stable and guaranteed returns. It also provides tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

PF is ideal for retirement planning. The returns are steady, though lower than some other investment options. The security it provides is invaluable. Over the years, PF can accumulate a significant corpus due to its fixed interest rate and compounding.

LIC Policies
Investing Rs 7,000 monthly in LIC policies is a conservative strategy. LIC policies combine insurance with investment. They offer a safety net for your family in case of your untimely demise.

However, the returns on LIC policies are generally lower. The primary benefit is the insurance cover. For investment purposes, the returns might not be as high as mutual funds or even PF.

Consider evaluating your LIC policies. If they are traditional endowment or money-back policies, the returns are modest. You might want to explore better investment options for higher returns.

Evaluating Your Future Corpus
Mutual Funds
With mutual funds, future returns depend on the market performance. Assuming an average annual return of 12%, your Rs 15,000 monthly investment can grow significantly. Over 20 years, this could accumulate to a sizeable corpus. However, this is an assumption and actual returns can vary.

Provident Fund
Provident funds offer predictable growth. Assuming an average interest rate of 8.5%, your Rs 10,000 monthly investment will grow steadily. Over 20 years, this can also accumulate to a significant amount. The fixed returns and tax benefits make it a reliable option.

LIC Policies
LIC policies usually offer lower returns. Assuming an average return of 6%, your Rs 7,000 monthly investment will grow, but slower compared to mutual funds and PF. The insurance benefit, however, is an added advantage.

Assessing Additional Needs
Based on your current investments, your future corpus will be substantial. But, you need to evaluate your financial goals. Are you saving for retirement, children's education, or buying a house? Each goal requires different strategies.

Insurance and Investment Balance
While LIC provides insurance, consider term insurance for better coverage. Term insurance offers higher coverage at lower premiums. This leaves more funds for high-return investments.

Diversifying Further
Consider diversifying your portfolio further. Adding debt mutual funds can provide stability. Equity mutual funds offer growth. Balancing these can help manage risk and maximize returns.

Review and Rebalance
Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio is crucial. As market conditions change, so should your investment strategy. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can help align your investments with your goals.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds might seem attractive due to lower costs. But, they require constant monitoring and expertise. Regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials offer guidance and advice. This can help you make informed decisions and optimize your returns.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds provide flexibility. Fund managers can adapt to market changes. This proactive approach can lead to better returns compared to index funds. They also offer professional management, which is beneficial if you lack the time or expertise to manage your investments.

Building a Robust Financial Plan
Emergency Fund
Ensure you have an emergency fund. This should cover 6-12 months of expenses. It provides financial security during unforeseen events.

Retirement Planning
Focus on retirement planning. Calculate your retirement corpus based on current expenses and future inflation. Your PF is a good start, but additional investments might be necessary.

Children's Education
If saving for children's education, start early. Education costs are rising. Investing in equity mutual funds can help accumulate the required corpus.

Goal-Based Investing
Align your investments with specific goals. Short-term goals can use debt funds for stability. Long-term goals benefit from equity funds for growth.

Tax Planning
Maximize tax benefits. Investments in PF and certain mutual funds offer tax deductions. Efficient tax planning can increase your net returns.

Final Insights
Your current investment strategy is commendable. It's well-diversified and covers various aspects of financial planning. However, there's always room for improvement. Evaluating your LIC policies and possibly reallocating funds can enhance your returns.

Regular reviews and professional advice are crucial. A Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance. This ensures your investments are aligned with your financial goals.

Investing is a journey. Stay informed and flexible. Adjust your strategy as needed to achieve your financial aspirations.

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello sir, I am 38 yeaas old and monthly income is 1.4 lakhs. I have a home loan EMI of 60000. I have started to invest 30000 in MF SIP one year ago. My funds are Mirae less tax saver, ICICI prudential technology direct, ICICI prudential commodities fund, Nippon india small cap, quant small and midcap, axis small cap, tata digital India, ICICI prudential Nasdaq 100 index, Mirae asset large & midcap. How much Do you think If I invest like this for 10 years with some increase every year I should be able to save. If their is any advise on funds that I am saving on.
Ans: It's commendable that you've taken proactive steps towards securing your financial future by starting your mutual fund SIPs.

Here's some advice and guidance tailored to your situation:

Investing 30,000 per month in mutual fund SIPs is a wise decision that demonstrates your commitment to long-term wealth creation.
Diversifying your investments across various mutual funds reflects a balanced approach to risk management and potential returns.
Over a 10-year investment horizon, your disciplined approach to investing can potentially lead to significant wealth accumulation.
It's essential to periodically review and adjust your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Consider gradually increasing your SIP contributions over time to take advantage of the power of compounding and accelerate wealth creation.
While your current fund selection appears diversified, consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure your portfolio is optimized for long-term growth.
A professional can provide personalized advice and recommend adjustments to your investment strategy based on market conditions and your individual financial goals.
Remember, investing is a journey, and consistency, patience, and discipline are key to achieving your financial objectives. Keep up the good work, and stay focused on your long-term goals!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 03, 2024

Listen
Money
I m 42 years old and will retire at age of 58. I want 3 crore at my retirement. How much amount invest lumsum in mutual fund.
Ans: Planning for Retirement: Achieving a Rs 3 Crore Corpus
You are 42 years old and plan to retire at 58. To ensure you have Rs 3 crore at retirement, you need a well-structured investment strategy. Let’s explore how to achieve this goal by investing in mutual funds.

Understanding Your Investment Horizon
You have 16 years until retirement. This is a significant period, allowing your investments to benefit from compounding. Compounding is the process where the returns earned on your investments generate their own returns. Over time, this can lead to exponential growth.

Assessing Your Risk Tolerance
Before diving into the investment calculations, it's crucial to understand your risk tolerance. Given your age and retirement goal, a balanced approach combining growth and stability is recommended. Equities can offer higher returns, but they come with higher volatility. Debt instruments provide stability but with lower returns.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds can be a good option for your investment. These funds are managed by professional fund managers who aim to outperform the market. Here are some benefits:

Professional Management: Expert fund managers make strategic decisions to maximize returns.
Flexibility: These funds can adjust their portfolio based on market conditions.
Potential for Higher Returns: They aim to outperform index funds, providing better returns over the long term.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Investing in direct funds means bypassing intermediaries, but it has drawbacks:

Lack of Professional Guidance: Direct funds require you to make investment decisions without expert advice.
Higher Responsibility: You need to monitor and adjust your investments regularly.
Potential for Mistakes: Without a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), you might miss opportunities or take unnecessary risks.
Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials provides professional guidance, ensuring your investments are well-managed and aligned with your goals.

Calculating the Required Investment
To determine how much you need to invest in a lump sum, we must consider the expected rate of return. Historically, equity mutual funds in India have provided an average return of around 12-15% per annum. For this calculation, we will use a conservative estimate of 12%.

We need approximately Rs 50 Lacs to 60 Lacs as a lumpsum investment.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification is crucial for managing risk. While equity funds can provide higher returns, adding debt funds to your portfolio can offer stability. A balanced approach ensures you are not overly exposed to market volatility.

Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing
Investments need regular monitoring. Market conditions change, and your portfolio should adapt accordingly. Rebalancing involves adjusting your investment mix to maintain the desired level of risk and return. This ensures your portfolio remains aligned with your retirement goal.

Considering Tax Implications
Investing in mutual funds has tax implications. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax applies to equity funds after one year, while short-term capital gains (STCG) tax applies within a year. Understanding these tax rules helps in planning your withdrawals and maximizing your returns.

Emergency Fund and Insurance
Before making a lump sum investment, ensure you have an adequate emergency fund. This fund should cover at least six months of living expenses. Additionally, having sufficient life and health insurance is crucial to protect against unforeseen events.

Reviewing Investment Options
Evaluate different mutual fund schemes based on their past performance, fund manager expertise, and investment strategy. Look for funds with consistent returns and a track record of outperforming their benchmarks.

Seeking Professional Guidance
A Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance. They can help you choose the right mix of funds and ensure your investment strategy is robust and effective.

Benefits of Starting Now
Starting your investment now gives you a significant advantage. The power of compounding works best with time. The earlier you start, the more you benefit from exponential growth in your investments.

Conclusion
Achieving a Rs 3 crore corpus at retirement is a realistic goal with a disciplined investment approach. By investing a calculated lump sum in mutual funds, diversifying your portfolio, and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure a comfortable and financially secure retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 12, 2024

Money
Sir my age is 34 yr .. in govt job .. monthly income is 1 lac ..with 2 children..I m investing 15000 per month in mutual fund and 10000 rs per month in PF nd 7000 in LIC ...what amount I will get in future and what extra I need ...??
Ans: You’re 34 years old and working in a government job, earning Rs 1 lakh per month. You have two children, which makes planning for the future even more critical. You're currently investing Rs 15,000 per month in mutual funds, Rs 10,000 per month in Provident Fund (PF), and Rs 7,000 in LIC.

Your commitment to these investments is admirable, but it’s important to ensure that they align with your long-term goals. Let’s assess where you are now and how you can plan for a secure future.

Evaluating Your Current Investments
Mutual Fund SIPs: Investing Rs 15,000 per month in mutual funds is a strong strategy for wealth creation. Mutual funds have the potential for good returns over the long term. The power of compounding will help your money grow, especially if you stay invested for a long time.

Provident Fund (PF): Your Rs 10,000 monthly investment in PF is a solid choice for safe and steady growth. PF offers a fixed return with tax benefits, making it a secure option. It is particularly beneficial for retirement planning.

LIC Policies: You’re investing Rs 7,000 per month in LIC. While LIC provides a mix of insurance and returns, it’s essential to evaluate if it meets your needs. Traditional LIC policies typically offer lower returns compared to other investment options.

Projecting Your Future Corpus
Without using specific calculations or formulas, let’s broadly estimate what you might expect from your investments:

Mutual Funds: Over a long period, mutual funds have the potential to offer returns that could multiply your investments significantly. However, these returns are not guaranteed and are subject to market risks.

Provident Fund (PF): PF offers a predictable return, which will grow steadily. This fund will be a key part of your retirement corpus, providing you with a stable income during your retirement years.

LIC Policies: The returns from LIC policies are generally lower compared to mutual funds or even PF. These policies are more about protection and security than wealth creation.

Assessing Your Financial Goals
To determine what extra you need to do, it’s important to identify your financial goals. Here are some typical goals:

Children’s Education: Providing for your children’s higher education is likely a priority. Education costs are rising, and planning early will help you avoid financial stress later.

Retirement Planning: Securing your retirement is crucial. You need to ensure that your retirement corpus is sufficient to maintain your lifestyle after you stop working.

Emergency Fund: It’s important to have an emergency fund that can cover at least 6 months of your expenses. This fund should be liquid and easily accessible in case of unexpected events.

Identifying Gaps and Additional Steps
Increase Mutual Fund Investments: You may want to increase your monthly SIP in mutual funds. This will help you build a larger corpus for long-term goals like your children’s education and your retirement. Consider actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) instead of direct funds to benefit from professional expertise.

Review LIC Policies: Assess whether your LIC policies are serving your financial goals. If the returns are lower than what you could get from mutual funds or PF, you might consider surrendering the policy and reinvesting the proceeds in higher-yielding options. However, do this only after careful consideration and consultation with a CFP.

Explore Child Education Plans: Consider investing in child education plans that can offer returns aligned with the future cost of education. Look for options that provide growth potential and ensure that the funds are available when needed.

Build an Emergency Fund: If you haven’t already, start building an emergency fund. This will provide financial security and ensure that you’re not forced to dip into your investments during tough times.

Final Insights
Balanced Investment Approach: Continue your existing investments but consider increasing your mutual fund SIP. This will help you take advantage of the long-term growth potential of the market.

Insurance and Protection: Ensure that your insurance needs are adequately covered. LIC provides life coverage, but you may also want to explore term insurance for higher coverage at a lower premium.

Retirement Planning: Your PF is a good start, but it might not be enough. Consider increasing your retirement investments by either upping your PF contribution or adding to your mutual fund investments.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner: A CFP can help you align your investments with your goals. They can offer personalized advice based on your specific situation, helping you make informed decisions for your family’s future.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your financial future is secure and that you’re on track to meet your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
dear sir, i m 54 years old male and having investment in MF of 58 lacks of current value of 1 Cr above.also having PF Fund 24 lacs,super enuation 16 lacs and 7 to 8 lacs in NPS. my monthly salary on hand 1.8 lacks. every month invest 75k in MF and 12k in NPS. after retirement i should have monthly 1 lac for my expense. kindly suggest how much should i invest every month. i have two daughters and got marries and no liability on my head.
Ans: You have done an excellent job in building your financial portfolio. With Rs 1 crore in mutual funds, Rs 24 lakhs in Provident Fund (PF), Rs 16 lakhs in superannuation, and Rs 7-8 lakhs in NPS, you have a strong financial base. Your monthly salary of Rs 1.8 lakhs and current investments of Rs 75,000 in mutual funds and Rs 12,000 in NPS show a disciplined approach to saving for retirement.

You mentioned that you will require Rs 1 lakh per month after retirement. This is an important goal and will guide our investment strategy.

Assessing Your Retirement Income Needs
To ensure that you have Rs 1 lakh per month during retirement, we need to consider various factors. Your existing corpus will need to generate sufficient income to meet your monthly expenses without depleting the principal too quickly.

Assuming you retire at 60, you have six more years to build your retirement corpus. The challenge is to ensure that your investments grow sufficiently to provide you with a steady income of Rs 1 lakh per month. Given your current investment discipline, you are on the right path, but a few adjustments could optimize your strategy.

Investment Strategy for Mutual Funds
Reviewing Your Mutual Fund Portfolio:

Your current mutual fund portfolio of Rs 1 crore indicates good growth over time.

However, it’s essential to review the performance of these funds regularly.

Focus on funds with a proven track record and actively managed funds. These funds offer potential for higher returns than index funds.

Ensure that your portfolio is diversified across various asset classes like large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds.

SIP vs Lump Sum:

Continue with your monthly SIP of Rs 75,000 in mutual funds. This systematic approach will help you average out market volatility.

If you receive any lump sum amounts, such as bonuses or incentives, consider investing them in a staggered manner.

Debt Fund Allocation:

As you approach retirement, consider increasing your allocation to debt funds. Debt funds offer stability and can help preserve your capital.

A gradual shift towards a balanced portfolio with a higher debt component will reduce your exposure to market risks.

Optimizing Your NPS Contributions
Your monthly contribution of Rs 12,000 to NPS is a wise choice. NPS offers a mix of equity and debt, making it a balanced investment for retirement.

Consider reviewing your NPS allocation to ensure it aligns with your risk appetite.

You can opt for a more conservative approach as you near retirement, reducing equity exposure and increasing debt allocation.

Superannuation and Provident Fund Planning
Your superannuation of Rs 16 lakhs and PF of Rs 24 lakhs are excellent sources of retirement income.

Upon retirement, you can consider withdrawing a portion of these funds for immediate needs.

The remaining amount can be invested in a mix of debt instruments and hybrid mutual funds to generate regular income.

Consider options that offer both growth and income, ensuring that your principal remains intact.

Calculating Your Monthly Investments
To achieve Rs 1 lakh per month after retirement, we need to estimate the required corpus. Although exact calculations depend on various assumptions, your current investment pattern suggests that you may need to increase your monthly contributions slightly.

Estimating Future Corpus:

Considering inflation and future expenses, you might need a retirement corpus of around Rs 2-3 crores.

To reach this target, continue with your current SIPs and consider increasing your monthly investment by Rs 10,000-15,000.

You can distribute this additional investment across debt funds, equity funds, and NPS, ensuring a balanced portfolio.

Creating a Retirement Income Strategy
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP):

Upon retirement, consider setting up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from your mutual funds. SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly, providing a steady income.

SWPs are tax-efficient and help manage your cash flow.

Hybrid Funds:

Invest in hybrid mutual funds that combine equity and debt. These funds offer growth potential while reducing risk.

Hybrid funds can be part of your retirement income strategy, providing a balanced approach.

Debt Instruments:

Allocate a portion of your retirement corpus to debt instruments like fixed deposits, government bonds, or Senior Citizen Savings Schemes (SCSS).

These options provide fixed returns and ensure capital preservation.

Managing Risk and Ensuring Growth
Regular Portfolio Review:

Review your portfolio at least once a year with the help of a Certified Financial Planner. This will ensure that your investments remain aligned with your retirement goals.

Rebalance your portfolio as needed, especially if there are significant changes in market conditions or your financial situation.

Contingency Planning:

Keep a contingency fund in place, equivalent to at least 6-12 months of expenses. This fund should be easily accessible and can be in liquid funds or savings accounts.

The contingency fund ensures that you don’t need to withdraw from your investments in case of emergencies.

Final Insights
Your disciplined approach to saving and investing has put you in a strong position as you approach retirement. By making some strategic adjustments, you can ensure that you achieve your goal of Rs 1 lakh per month in retirement.

Continue with your SIPs and NPS contributions, but consider increasing your monthly investment slightly.

Diversify your portfolio, with a gradual shift towards more conservative investments as you near retirement.

Set up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) to manage your retirement income efficiently.

Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to stay on track.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a comfortable retirement with the financial security you desire.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 08, 2024Hindi
Money
I am Working as central government employee. I am married and have no children. My wife is a home maker. I am sharing comprehensive details about my investments in various mutual funds for your review. In addition to the mutual funds, here is a summary of my current financial situation: Recurring Deposits: I have bank recurring deposits totaling approximately ?8 lakhs. Income and Expenditure: Monthly Net Income: ?95,000 (after TDS, NPS and other deductions) Monthly Expenditure: My monthly expenses range from ?45,000 to ?50,000. This amount does not include the EMI for my land investment. NPS Contribution: Monthly Contribution: ?22,000 (This includes both employee and employer contributions.) Current NPS Holdings: ?21 lakhs I have recently transitioned my NPS fund management to HDFC Pension Management Company which has following allocation: Equity: 49.64% Corporate Debts: 30.21% Government Securities: 20.15% Real Estate: Co-own a land for which I have availed loan from bank with EMI of Rs. ?19,000 per month Insurance: Have term insurance of Rs. 1cr, (I am planning increase cover to 2 Cr.) Family is covered under Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) which is reimbursement type facility (not cashless). MUTUAL FUND PORTFOLIO MFs where SIPs are discontinued 1. Axis ELSS Tax Saver Fund- Invested lump sum Rs. 75,000/- in Feb & March 2020 2. Canara Rebeco ELSS Tax Saver Fund- Currently invested Rs. 53,000-/- 3. Mirrae Asset ELLS Tax Saver Fund- Invested lump sum Rs. 75,000/- in Feb & March 2021 4. Parag Parekh ELSS: - Currently invested Rs. 1,05,000/- 5. Canara Rebeco Bluechip Equity Fund- Currently invested Rs. 87,000/- (due lack of knowledge and chasing top performer, I have ended up in investing various ELSS fund) MFs where SIPs are continued 1. Quant ELSS- Rs. 5,000/- PM 2. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap- Rs. 3,000/- PM (chose this fund as better alternative of Large cap fund) 3. Quant Small Cap- Rs. 3,000/- PM- (started SIP for exposure to Small Cap) 4. Kotak Emerging Equity- Rs. 3,000/- PM (started SIP for exposure to Mid Cap) 5. Tata Nifty Midcap 150 Momentum 50 – Rs. 3,000/- PM (started SIP for exposure to Mid Cap) As on date, portfolio distribution as Debt- 5.17 % Other- 3.80% Equity- 90.98 % (of total equity 69.80 % in L-Cap, 16.53 in M-Cap and 13.66 in S-Cap) I would appreciate your detailed review of my portfolio and financial condition. Specifically, I am looking for insights into the following areas: • Should I redeem my funds in which SIPs are discontinued which would attract LTCG or should I just continue to hold them? • I have now started to rebalance my portfolio and aim to have distribution of my equity as 50-55% in Large CAP, 35-30% in Mid Cap and 15-20% in Small Cap. Is this a good approach to achieve good return? • I haven’t invested in any debt fund because I have RDs of 8 lakh, which I think, act like both fixed income asset and emergency fund. Is my understanding correct? Or should I invest in some debt fund (pure debt fund or hybrid fund)? • Should I take exposure to international funds and gold funds? • Any recommendations for optimizing my mutual fund portfolio for better performance. Thanks.
Ans: You have done well in diversifying your investments. Your portfolio has a good balance between equity, fixed income (recurring deposits), and NPS contributions. Let's discuss specific aspects of your situation to further optimize your portfolio.

Mutual Fund Portfolio Review
Discontinued SIPs: ELSS Funds

You have several discontinued SIPs in ELSS funds. ELSS funds offer tax benefits but come with a three-year lock-in period. Since these funds are no longer in your active SIP portfolio, consider the following:
Tax Impact: Redeeming these funds will attract long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax. For gains above Rs 1.25 lakh, LTCG is taxed at 12.5%. You should evaluate the taxable impact before redeeming. If the LTCG is substantial, staggering withdrawals across financial years could help minimize tax liabilities.
Performance Monitoring: Review the performance of these funds. If they’re underperforming compared to other ELSS or diversified funds, it might be better to exit. On the other hand, if these funds are delivering good returns, you could hold them for more growth.
Redemption Timing: Since these are tax-saving funds, check the lock-in period status. If the lock-in period is over and the fund’s performance isn’t aligned with your goals, you can consider redeeming them.
Active SIPs: Small, Mid, and Flexi Cap Funds

You have active SIPs in small-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds. Your strategy to diversify across different market caps is sound, but it's important to monitor:
Market Volatility: Small and mid-cap funds tend to be more volatile. While they can offer higher returns, they are also riskier. Having a balanced exposure across large, mid, and small caps helps manage risks.
Fund Performance: Keep an eye on the performance of your small and mid-cap funds. Ensure that they are consistently performing well against their respective benchmarks.
Review Flexi-Cap Allocation: Flexi-cap funds provide the flexibility to invest across market caps. It’s good that you have exposure to a flexi-cap fund as it adds diversification. Make sure your flexi-cap fund has a strong track record of managing market volatility.
Portfolio Rebalancing: Target Allocation Review
You aim to have a portfolio distribution of 50-55% in large-cap, 30-35% in mid-cap, and 15-20% in small-cap. This is a prudent strategy, especially for wealth accumulation over the long term. Here’s an assessment:
Large-Cap Focus: Large-cap stocks provide stability and lower risk. Targeting 50-55% in large-cap will help cushion the volatility from mid and small-cap investments.
Mid and Small-Cap Allocation: Your exposure to mid and small caps is within a reasonable range. Mid-cap funds can offer a balance of growth and risk, while small-cap funds, though riskier, have the potential for higher returns in the long run.
Ongoing Rebalancing: It’s important to rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain this allocation, especially during market movements. You can do this by adjusting your SIP amounts or making lump-sum investments in under-allocated segments.
Debt Investment: Role of Recurring Deposits
You have Rs 8 lakhs in recurring deposits (RDs), which act as your fixed-income investment. While RDs are safe, they may not offer the best returns over time. Here’s a detailed view:
Fixed-Income Component: RDs are a good tool for regular savings but may not keep up with inflation. They are better suited for short-term goals or an emergency fund. The return on RDs is usually lower compared to debt mutual funds.
Debt Fund vs RD: A well-diversified portfolio should have some allocation to debt mutual funds, as they tend to offer better post-tax returns than RDs, especially in higher tax brackets. You can consider allocating a portion of your RDs into debt funds, which provide liquidity, tax efficiency, and better returns over the long term.
Hybrid Funds: You could also consider hybrid funds if you want a mix of equity and debt exposure. These funds offer a balance between growth (through equity) and stability (through debt).
International and Gold Fund Exposure
International Funds: Diversifying into international markets can be beneficial, especially for long-term investors. International funds give you exposure to global companies that may not be available in the Indian market. Moreover, they act as a hedge against rupee depreciation. Allocating 5-10% of your portfolio to international funds can enhance diversification.

Currency Risk: Keep in mind that international funds are exposed to currency fluctuations. However, over a long investment horizon, the benefits usually outweigh the risks.
Fund Selection: If you decide to invest in international funds, focus on regions or countries that have strong growth potential or sectors like technology, which are underrepresented in Indian markets.
Gold Funds: Gold is traditionally seen as a safe haven during economic uncertainties. It can serve as a hedge against inflation and market volatility.

Gold Allocation: You could allocate around 5-10% of your portfolio to gold. However, avoid over-exposure, as gold doesn’t generate income and its returns are typically lower over the long term compared to equities.
Investment Routes: Instead of gold mutual funds, you might also consider Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) which offer the benefit of interest payments and tax-free capital gains if held till maturity.
NPS Contribution and Pension Management
You are contributing Rs 22,000 per month to NPS, with a current corpus of Rs 21 lakhs. Your asset allocation within NPS is spread across equity, corporate debt, and government securities.
Equity Allocation: At 49.64%, your equity exposure within NPS is well-placed for growth. As a long-term investor, equity will help build your corpus.
Debt Allocation: The combined 50.36% allocation in corporate debt and government securities provides stability and reduces risk. This balanced allocation ensures that your retirement savings are protected from market volatility.
HDFC Pension Management: Keep reviewing the performance of your pension fund manager. NPS allows you to switch fund managers once a year if needed, so ensure that your chosen manager is delivering competitive returns compared to peers.
Insurance Coverage: Term Plan
Your current term insurance of Rs 1 crore is good, but you’re planning to increase it to Rs 2 crore. This is a wise move as it will better protect your family’s financial future.
Life Cover Adequacy: As a rule of thumb, your term insurance cover should be at least 10-12 times your annual income. Given your monthly income of Rs 95,000, a Rs 2 crore cover will provide ample security for your family in case of an untimely event.
Health Insurance: Since you’re covered under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), which is a reimbursement type facility, it provides a reliable safety net for medical expenses.
Recommendations for Portfolio Optimization
Simplify ELSS Exposure: You have invested in multiple ELSS funds. To optimize your portfolio, consider consolidating your ELSS investments into one or two high-performing funds. This will make your portfolio easier to manage and track.

Continue with Mid and Small Cap Allocation: Your current allocation to mid-cap and small-cap funds seems balanced. Ensure that these funds are delivering competitive returns compared to their benchmarks.

Debt Fund Introduction: Consider introducing a debt mutual fund for better tax efficiency and returns compared to recurring deposits. You can start with a conservative or dynamic bond fund, depending on your risk appetite.

Monitor Regularly: Keep reviewing your mutual funds’ performance. Look at how they perform against their benchmarks and peer funds. If a fund consistently underperforms, consider switching.

Diversify Globally: Allocating 5-10% of your portfolio to international funds will add global diversification and reduce geographical risk. Stick to markets or sectors with strong growth potential.

Gold as a Hedge: Add 5-10% of gold exposure for portfolio stability. Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) are a tax-efficient and reliable option.

Final Insights
Your overall financial situation is sound with a good mix of equity, fixed-income, and real estate investments.

Consider consolidating your ELSS portfolio and introducing debt funds for better returns and risk management.

Adding international funds and a small allocation to gold will enhance diversification and protect against currency fluctuations and inflation.

Continue monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio periodically to ensure you stay on track with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 08, 2024Hindi
Money
I'm 47 yrs old PSU Employee. Presently having corpus of 1.20 cr in PF, around 50 lakhs in NPS, Two PPFs of 22 lakhs , mutual fund around 20 lakhs, savings account deposit around 7 lakhs . apartment cost 60 lakhs is in rent (receiving monthly rental Rs.12000 ) , Two lands. Contribution at present 1. PF around Rs.26600 2. NPS around Rs.23600 3. PPF yearly contribution Rs.300000 (will take care education of my two sons of 12yrs age) 4. Mutual fund Rs. 19000 Take Home salary : Rs.135000 Present monthly expenses : Rs. 55000 to 65000 Goals: 1.May think up new apartment disposing present property after 10yrs 2. Child (Twin son of 12yrs) education will be taken care by PPF 3. Marriage of children after 13/14 yrs 4. Retirement corpus >6 crs to generate monthly income at least 3 Lakhs (adjusted inflation) Risk :Considering 13 yrs to retire, I'm redy to take ample risk Mutual fund Portfolio SBI bLuechip fund -Rs.6000 , Kotak emerging equity - Rs.5000, Nippon Small cap fund -Rs.5000, Parag parikh flexi cap fund -Rs.5000, Franklin smaller companies fund- Rs. 1000, ICICI pru value discovery fund- Rs.1000 , HDFC hybrid fund - Rs.1000 Want to invest Rs.45000 in mutual fund SIP with 10% step up , Rs,5000 in ETFs. Kindly suggest how to proceed and suggest changes in my portfolio
Ans: At 47, you have a solid base with Rs 1.20 crore in PF, Rs 50 lakhs in NPS, and Rs 22 lakhs in PPF. Your goal of Rs 6 crore by retirement and generating Rs 3 lakhs monthly income post-retirement is achievable, given a 13-year investment horizon. However, it will require discipline, proper asset allocation, and regular contributions.

Let's break down how you can approach it.

Existing Portfolio Overview
Your current portfolio has a mix of Provident Fund (PF), National Pension System (NPS), Public Provident Fund (PPF), and Mutual Funds. This diversified approach is commendable and provides stability for long-term growth.

Provident Fund (PF): You are contributing Rs 26,600 per month. This ensures safety and steady growth but might not beat inflation over time.

NPS: Your Rs 23,600 monthly contribution will also support retirement needs, with tax benefits. NPS invests in a mix of equity and debt, providing moderate growth.

PPF: Rs 3 lakh yearly contribution helps in building a tax-free corpus, especially for your children's education.

Mutual Funds: You currently have Rs 20 lakhs in mutual funds with a monthly SIP of Rs 19,000. This part of your portfolio has growth potential, but it needs some adjustment for better returns.

Current Mutual Fund Portfolio Analysis
Your mutual fund portfolio has a good mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. However, your contribution to some schemes is too small (Rs 1,000 per fund) to make a significant impact. Also, having too many small SIPs can dilute the returns.

Large-Cap Fund: This is essential for stability. But avoid over-exposure here, as large caps grow slower than mid and small caps.

Mid and Small-Cap Funds: You have exposure to mid and small-cap funds, which are essential for long-term growth. These funds provide higher returns but come with higher volatility.

Hybrid Fund: Your hybrid fund offers a balanced approach, but the allocation is very low (Rs 1,000). It may not be impactful.

Suggested Changes to Mutual Fund Portfolio
Focus on High Growth Funds:

You should concentrate more on mid-cap and small-cap funds for aggressive growth.
Reduce Underperforming SIPs:

Some of your small investments (Rs 1,000) in certain funds won't significantly impact your portfolio. You can stop or reduce SIPs in underperforming funds and reallocate this amount to better-performing funds.
Avoid too Many Funds:

Stick to a few funds with larger SIPs. This will help compound your investments better. Simplify your portfolio by reducing the number of funds to 5 or 6.
Increase SIP Amounts Gradually:

Your plan to invest Rs 45,000 per month with a 10% step-up is good. Gradually increasing the SIP amount helps in achieving the Rs 6 crore retirement goal faster.
Focus on Actively Managed Funds:

Actively managed funds can outperform passive funds like ETFs, especially in the Indian market, where there's still scope for fund managers to generate alpha.
Avoid Over-Allocation to ETFs:

While ETFs provide low-cost investment options, they are passive and can underperform in an emerging market like India, where active fund managers can identify better opportunities. Your allocation to ETFs can be kept low or even avoided.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Strategy
Your plan to invest Rs 45,000 in SIPs with a 10% yearly step-up is excellent. This strategy ensures that you increase your contributions to match your income growth. SIPs are an ideal way to accumulate wealth gradually, especially when aligned with long-term goals like retirement.

Suggested Allocation:

Large-Cap Funds: 20% (Stability and lower risk)

Mid-Cap Funds: 40% (Moderate risk and high growth potential)

Small-Cap Funds: 30% (High risk but highest growth potential)

Flexi-Cap Funds: 10% (Allows dynamic allocation across large, mid, and small caps)

This mix will provide a good balance between risk and reward, helping you build the desired corpus over the next 13 years.

National Pension System (NPS)
You already contribute Rs 23,600 to NPS monthly. This amount is sufficient to generate a healthy corpus for your retirement. The NPS’s equity allocation helps with growth, while the debt portion provides stability. Given your risk appetite, you can increase the equity exposure in your NPS to maximize growth potential.

Remember, upon retirement, a portion of the NPS will need to be converted into an annuity, which may not generate high returns. Therefore, having a robust mutual fund portfolio as well is crucial.

Real Estate Consideration
Although you’re considering selling your current apartment and buying a new one in 10 years, I suggest thinking carefully before relying heavily on real estate as an investment. Real estate requires maintenance, can have low liquidity, and returns are not guaranteed. Moreover, rental yields are generally low in India (around 2-3%).

Instead, if you continue building your mutual fund portfolio, you will have more liquidity and better returns over time.

Children’s Education
You have wisely allocated your PPF funds towards your children’s education. PPF is safe, and its tax-free nature makes it ideal for funding future education expenses. Given your children are 12 years old, you have around 5 to 6 years before higher education costs kick in. Continue your PPF contributions, but also consider creating a separate mutual fund portfolio specifically for their education to account for rising costs.

You can allocate a part of your existing SIPs towards an education goal to complement the PPF. Equity mutual funds can help you beat inflation over the long term and provide a larger corpus when the time comes.

Retirement Planning and Corpus Goal
You have set a goal of Rs 6 crore for your retirement corpus. This will allow you to generate a monthly income of Rs 3 lakhs post-retirement. To achieve this, your existing investments and SIPs, along with a 10% step-up, should be enough, provided the market performs well.

Suggested Steps for Retirement:
Continue PF and NPS Contributions:

These will form a substantial part of your retirement corpus.
Increase Mutual Fund SIPs:

The plan to step up your SIPs by 10% annually is sound. This will allow you to accumulate the desired corpus.
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) in Retirement:

Once you retire, an SWP from your mutual fund corpus can generate a regular monthly income. It’s a tax-efficient way to withdraw money while your investments continue to grow. Unlike real estate, mutual funds provide better liquidity and growth. An SWP will not deplete your corpus rapidly if planned well.
Tax Planning:

Keep in mind the tax implications when selling mutual funds. The new LTCG tax on equity mutual funds is 12.5% beyond Rs 1.25 lakh of gains. Debt funds are taxed as per your income tax slab. Plan your withdrawals accordingly.
Final Insights
You’re on the right track with your investments and goals. With a 13-year horizon, focusing on equity mutual funds for growth will help you achieve your retirement goal. Avoid over-reliance on real estate for rental income, as mutual funds offer better liquidity and returns.

Simplify your mutual fund portfolio by reducing underperforming funds.

Concentrate on high-growth funds and step up your SIPs regularly.

Keep your NPS and PF contributions going for retirement stability.

Use SWP as a retirement income tool instead of depending on real estate.

Your children’s education can be secured through your PPF and a separate education-focused portfolio. Continue building your investments with discipline, and you’ll be well-prepared for a comfortable retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 08, 2024Hindi
Money
I am currently 42 years old Insurance professional. My wife is a teacher. Together our monthly earning is 165000/-. My daughter is in class 6. Here are the details of our investment and asset. We have our own apartment hence no home loan. I want to buy another flat for my daughter. I also would like to send my daughter to Germany for masters. Currently our investment are as below : Mutual fund : We have a portfolio of 28 lakh. Our monthly investment is 35K.. Our PPF fund is 12 lakh. We invest around 1 lakh a year there. Our FD is around 22 lakh. We have endowment insurance investment of around 10 lakh.In Sukanyacsamriddhi account we have 2 lakh. Cash in bank account 8 lakh. I wish to retire at 55 with a corpus of 2 Cr with all my liabilities mitigated. How should I approach?
Ans: You wish to retire at 55, leaving you with 13 years to build a corpus of Rs 2 crore. You have a solid financial foundation, and your current investments are heading in the right direction. With your combined monthly income of Rs 1.65 lakh and monthly SIP of Rs 35,000, your portfolio can grow substantially. However, achieving a Rs 2 crore corpus by 55 will require careful planning, discipline, and some adjustments to your investment strategy. Your goal is achievable, but you will need to evaluate your current approach and potentially make some changes.

Assessing Your Current Investment Portfolio
Let’s review the different components of your current investment portfolio.

Mutual Funds (Rs 28 lakh): You are investing Rs 35,000 per month, which is a good contribution. Mutual funds offer long-term growth and wealth-building opportunities. However, we need to ensure that your mutual funds are diversified across different asset classes. Since you are primarily focused on retirement and your daughter’s education, having a mix of equity funds, hybrid funds, and debt funds would be ideal to balance risk and returns. Equity mutual funds can provide higher returns but come with more volatility.

Public Provident Fund (PPF, Rs 12 lakh): PPF is a safe, long-term investment option with tax benefits under Section 80C. Your yearly investment of Rs 1 lakh is prudent, as it helps build a guaranteed, risk-free retirement corpus. PPF works well for conservative investors but doesn’t generate the high returns needed for aggressive growth. You can continue with this as part of a low-risk portion of your portfolio. However, for higher growth, your focus should remain on equity mutual funds.

Fixed Deposits (Rs 22 lakh): Fixed deposits offer safety but generate low returns, which may not keep up with inflation. It’s wise to hold some portion of your assets in FDs for short-term goals or emergencies. However, a large FD balance could slow down your portfolio’s overall growth. You may want to consider reallocating some of this to mutual funds for better long-term returns. You could keep around Rs 5-10 lakh in FDs and move the rest to a well-diversified portfolio.

Endowment Insurance (Rs 10 lakh): Endowment plans mix insurance with investment, but they generally offer low returns. While they provide life cover, their investment returns tend to be much lower than mutual funds or other pure investment products. You may consider surrendering these plans and using the proceeds to invest in high-growth mutual funds. For life insurance, you can shift to a term insurance plan, which will give you higher coverage at a lower premium.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY, Rs 2 lakh): This is a great savings option for your daughter’s future. It provides tax benefits and has a good interest rate. Continue contributing to this as part of your child’s education fund. SSY works best for long-term savings for daughters and is a safe, government-backed scheme.

Cash in Bank (Rs 8 lakh): Keeping Rs 8 lakh in your savings account is good for emergency needs. You should maintain an emergency fund equivalent to six months of your expenses. With a combined monthly earning of Rs 1.65 lakh, an emergency fund of Rs 8 lakh is appropriate. You could consider moving any excess cash beyond your emergency fund to more productive investments like mutual funds.

Buying Another Flat for Your Daughter
You have mentioned wanting to buy another flat for your daughter. While buying real estate is often seen as a good investment, it may not always be the best option for wealth creation. Real estate investments typically offer lower returns compared to equity mutual funds in the long run. Moreover, real estate requires large upfront capital, and the returns are less liquid compared to mutual funds. Since your primary focus is retirement and your daughter’s education, prioritizing those goals through financial investments may offer better growth and flexibility.

Rather than buying another flat, consider continuing to invest in equity mutual funds. This will allow your wealth to grow faster and give you more liquidity to meet your daughter’s education expenses and retirement needs. Additionally, you can explore renting a flat when the time comes if she needs housing during her education.

Daughter’s Education in Germany
Sending your daughter to Germany for her master’s education is a commendable goal. Education abroad can be expensive, and the cost of living in Germany, tuition fees, and travel expenses should all be factored in. Based on current costs, a master’s education abroad could cost around Rs 50-70 lakh over two years. To prepare for this, you should start a dedicated investment plan for her education.

You can consider setting aside a separate portion of your monthly investments toward her education fund. Flexi-cap mutual funds or balanced hybrid funds would be suitable for this goal, as they offer a mix of growth and stability. You already have a good foundation with Rs 2 lakh in Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana. This can be complemented with additional equity investments to ensure you meet the required corpus for her education in the next 6-7 years.

Strategy to Reach Rs 2 Crore Retirement Corpus
To reach your goal of Rs 2 crore by 55, let’s focus on your existing investment strategy and how to enhance it.

Continue Investing in Mutual Funds: Your current monthly SIP of Rs 35,000 is a good amount. You should continue investing consistently. Given that you have 13 years left until retirement, the power of compounding will work in your favor. You should target equity mutual funds with a long-term growth potential. A well-diversified portfolio with exposure to large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds would offer a balanced risk-return profile. It’s also essential to review and rebalance your portfolio every 1-2 years.

Increase SIP Contributions: To accelerate your wealth-building, consider increasing your monthly SIP amount by 10-15% each year. This will allow your investments to keep pace with inflation and your rising income. Gradually increasing your SIP will ensure that you are contributing more toward your retirement goal as your earnings grow.

Consider Debt Funds for Stability: Since you are nearing retirement, you could allocate a small portion of your portfolio to debt mutual funds or hybrid funds. These will provide stability and reduce the overall risk of your portfolio as you approach retirement. Debt funds offer lower volatility compared to equity funds and are suitable for those with a shorter investment horizon.

Term Insurance for Adequate Coverage: While you currently have an endowment insurance plan, term insurance would be a better option for life coverage. A term plan will offer you and your family financial security in case of any unfortunate events. The premium for term insurance is much lower than endowment plans, allowing you to free up more money for investments.

Tax Planning: Continue investing in tax-saving instruments like PPF, which offer Section 80C benefits. Additionally, your mutual fund investments can be planned to optimize your tax liability. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh from equity mutual funds are taxed at 12.5%. Planning withdrawals from your equity funds efficiently will help minimize tax payments when you begin using the corpus for retirement.

Health Insurance
It’s crucial to ensure you and your family have adequate health insurance coverage. You should review your existing health insurance policy to make sure it covers all potential medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgeries, and critical illnesses. Your wife’s coverage, if provided by her employer, can supplement your insurance, but it’s always better to have independent coverage. You may also want to consider a separate health insurance plan for your daughter, as well as additional critical illness or accident insurance.

Emergency Fund
Your emergency fund of Rs 8 lakh is adequate for now, but you should aim to increase it slightly as your expenses grow. An emergency fund equivalent to six months of your household expenses is typically sufficient. If your monthly expenses are Rs 1.65 lakh, then Rs 8-10 lakh in emergency savings is a reasonable amount. Keeping this in a liquid or short-term debt fund will help it grow slightly while still being easily accessible in case of emergencies.

Finally
You are on the right track with your investments and financial planning. Achieving your Rs 2 crore retirement goal is possible with disciplined savings, the right mix of mutual funds, and regular reviews of your portfolio.

Focus on diversifying your mutual fund portfolio to ensure a balance of risk and growth.

Consider reallocating some of your fixed deposit funds to mutual funds for better returns.

Keep your home loan for tax benefits, and use endowment plan funds for better investment opportunities.

Plan for your daughter’s education through a combination of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana and mutual funds.

Review your health insurance to make sure you have sufficient coverage for you, your wife, and your daughter.

Gradually increase your SIP contributions to ensure you meet your retirement and education goals.

By following these steps and consistently reviewing your progress, you’ll be well-positioned to retire comfortably at 55 with the desired corpus.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6538 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 08, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Sir Me and my husband, both are working and draw around 2.6 lac pa. I am 42 and my husband is 43 yrs old. In my ppf, I have 18.9 lac (close to 10 yrs) and in my husband's, it is 4.6 lac (close to 6 years)...I put monthly 12500 in each ppf account and will extend for another five years. In NPS, we both invest 9k and 10k monthly respectively. We also increased our PF by 8% under volunteer with current holding as 5.6 lac (mine) and 5.9 lac (husband). For my kid, I have taken HDFC growth plus with 2.5 lac annually paid for 5 yrs with maturity at 15 yrs. I just sold my home and will be having 50 lac. Only car loan is there, for which emi is 10.5K pm for next 5 yrs. Just want to know, how can I build a corpus of 2 cr in next five years. We are not going to buy home as don't want to get into debt again. My monthly expenses are around 1.5 lac including rent, car loan, school fees and other home expenses. Please let me know if we are moving in a right direction and where we can invest
Ans: Your current financial situation reflects a thoughtful approach to savings and investments. With a combined annual income of Rs 2.6 lakh, you have been diligent in accumulating assets through various financial instruments.

Current Assets Breakdown
Public Provident Fund (PPF):
Your PPF balance stands at Rs 18.9 lakh, which is a significant amount after nearly 10 years. Your husband's PPF has a balance of Rs 4.6 lakh after approximately six years.

National Pension System (NPS):
You both contribute to NPS, with you investing Rs 9,000 monthly and your husband contributing Rs 10,000 monthly. NPS is a solid choice for retirement planning, given its tax benefits and potential for market-linked returns.

Provident Fund (PF):
Your PF balance is Rs 5.6 lakh, while your husband has Rs 5.9 lakh. The PF accounts not only provide a safety net but also benefit from compounding over time.

Child’s Education Fund:
You have taken an HDFC Growth Plus policy with an annual premium of Rs 2.5 lakh for five years. This plan is designed to accumulate funds for your child's future educational expenses.

Home Sale Proceeds:
With the sale of your home, you will have Rs 50 lakh available. This amount presents a unique opportunity to bolster your investments.

Liabilities:
You currently have a car loan with an EMI of Rs 10,500 per month for the next five years. Managing this liability efficiently is essential to improve your overall cash flow.

Monthly Expenses:
Your monthly expenses are around Rs 1.5 lakh, which includes rent, car loan, school fees, and other home expenses. Monitoring and managing these expenses will be crucial as you work toward your financial goals.

Investment Strategy for Corpus Building
To build a corpus of Rs 2 crore in five years, you will need a well-structured investment strategy that leverages your current assets and income. Let’s explore a systematic approach.

1. Utilize Sale Proceeds Wisely
The Rs 50 lakh you receive from the home sale is a significant amount. Here’s how you can allocate these funds:

Emergency Fund:

Set aside Rs 10 lakh as an emergency fund. This will cover unforeseen expenses, ensuring you don’t have to dip into your investments during emergencies.
An emergency fund should ideally cover at least six months of living expenses.
Long-term Investments:

Allocate the remaining Rs 40 lakh towards growth-oriented investments. This allocation will form a substantial part of your corpus-building strategy.
2. Growth-Oriented Investments
You need to choose investments that offer high potential returns, considering your five-year horizon. Here are suitable options:

Equity Mutual Funds:

Consider investing a significant portion in actively managed equity mutual funds. Historically, they have the potential to deliver higher returns compared to traditional fixed-income investments and index funds.
Actively managed funds allow professional fund managers to select stocks based on market conditions. This increases your chances of outperforming the benchmark indices.
SIP Investments:

Continue your monthly SIPs in mutual funds. This disciplined approach allows you to invest consistently, reducing the impact of market volatility over time.
Increasing your SIP contributions, if financially feasible, can significantly boost your long-term wealth accumulation.
Tax-saving Options:

Explore equity-linked saving schemes (ELSS) for tax benefits under Section 80C. Investing in ELSS can enhance your overall returns while simultaneously providing tax relief.
These schemes have a lock-in period of three years but offer the potential for significant capital appreciation.
Diversification:

Ensure your investment portfolio is diversified across different sectors and asset classes. Diversification helps mitigate risks and enhances potential returns.
Include a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds in your portfolio to capture growth across market segments.
3. Maximizing NPS Contributions
Your commitment to NPS is commendable. It is a great tool for retirement savings and provides various benefits. Here’s how to maximize your NPS contributions:

Increased Contributions:

If possible, consider increasing your NPS contributions. Higher contributions will lead to a larger retirement corpus and benefit from compounding.
NPS allows you to choose your investment mix between equity and fixed income. Tailor this mix according to your risk appetite and retirement timeline.
Investment Mix:

Review the asset allocation in your NPS account. Make sure you have a balanced mix of equity, corporate bonds, and government securities.
A well-balanced portfolio within NPS can lead to better returns over time while reducing overall risk.
4. Evaluating Provident Fund (PF) Contributions
Your decision to increase PF contributions is wise. The PF scheme provides steady growth. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Voluntary Contribution:

Continue your voluntary contributions to the PF. This will enhance your retirement corpus significantly.
The compounding effect of the PF interest over time can contribute substantially to your long-term savings.
Monitoring Growth:

Keep track of your PF growth and ensure your contributions align with your overall financial goals.
Regular monitoring allows you to make necessary adjustments to your savings strategy as required.
Assessing Current Investments
You mentioned having an HDFC Growth Plus plan for your child. Here’s a deeper insight into evaluating this investment:

Investment Evaluation:

Regularly evaluate the performance of the HDFC Growth Plus plan. Compare it with benchmarks to ensure it aligns with your long-term goals.
If the policy shows consistent underperformance, consider redirecting those funds into mutual funds, which may provide better returns over the investment horizon.
Consideration of Alternatives:

If the returns from HDFC Growth Plus are not satisfactory, assess other investment avenues. Mutual funds typically offer better performance due to professional management and a diverse portfolio.
Debt Management
Effectively managing your car loan is crucial for financial stability. Here’s how to approach it:

Car Loan Strategy:

Maintain timely payments for the car loan to avoid penalties and maintain a good credit score.
Consider prepaying part of the loan if you have surplus funds. This can save on interest costs and reduce your overall debt burden.
Debt-Free Goal:

Prioritize becoming debt-free after the car loan repayment. This will free up cash flow and allow you to allocate those funds toward investments.
With no home loan, your focus should be on clearing the car loan as soon as possible.
Monthly Expense Management
Your monthly expenses are approximately Rs 1.5 lakh. Efficient management of these expenses is critical as you work toward your financial goals. Here are strategies to consider:

Budgeting:

Create a detailed monthly budget to track and manage your expenses. Allocate funds for essential and discretionary spending.
Review your budget regularly to ensure you are sticking to your financial plan.
Expense Review:

Regularly review your monthly expenses to identify areas where you can cut costs, especially in discretionary spending.
Look for opportunities to reduce expenses, such as dining out or entertainment costs.
Investing in Actively Managed Funds
It’s essential to understand the disadvantages of direct funds. Here’s why opting for regular funds through a certified financial planner can be beneficial:

Lack of Expertise:

Direct funds require significant knowledge and expertise. Without it, you may make uninformed decisions that could negatively impact your returns.
This lack of knowledge can lead to misallocating funds, potentially harming your financial growth.
Time Commitment:

Managing direct investments can be time-consuming. It requires constant monitoring, research, and market analysis.
If you have a demanding job or other commitments, managing investments directly may not be feasible.
Access to Better Options:

Certified financial planners can provide access to better investment options and exclusive funds. They have insights into top-performing funds that may not be available to individual investors.
A planner can help you choose the right funds based on your goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.
Personalized Strategy:

Regular funds through a certified financial planner allow for a tailored investment strategy. This approach can adapt to your changing financial needs and goals.
A personalized strategy can lead to better overall performance and alignment with your financial objectives.
Final Insights
You are on the right track toward building a corpus of Rs 2 crore in the next five years. Your disciplined approach to saving and investing will serve you well. Here’s a recap of your actionable steps:

Focus on Growth:

Emphasize growth-oriented investments, primarily in actively managed equity mutual funds. This will allow for better returns in the long run.
Utilize Resources Wisely:

Make the most of your sale proceeds while ensuring you have a robust emergency fund in place.
Monitor and Adjust:

Regularly review your investment strategy and adjust as needed based on market conditions and personal circumstances.
Stay Committed:

Remain disciplined with your monthly contributions and maintain a keen eye on your expenses.
By following these strategies, you can effectively work towards achieving your financial goal of Rs 2 crore in five years.

The combination of strategic investment, disciplined saving, and effective debt management will position you well for future financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |355 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Listen
Money
Hi Sir, iam 54 years old investor, recently resigned and active in shares trading and investing last 20 years. liquid assets approx. 3.75 cr. Rental income 33k and Gold another 1cr. Immovable property home and vacant shop 2 cr each. wife 51 yr old-home maker. Medical Policy 20 Lacs. household expenses 1.75 lacs inclusive of 45k of SIPs as per table. SCHEMES UNITS SIP VALUE AXIS LONG TERM - D 8247 240000 ADITYA BIRLA SL TAX RELIEF 96 D 759 150000 AXIS BLUE CHIP G 5702 375000 MIRAE ASSET LARGE CAP G 1151 130000 HDFC BALANCE ADVANTAGE D 6905 5000 285000 HDFC MID-CAP OPPORTUNITIES D 5616 5000 335000 ICICI PRU LIFE BLUE CHIP FUND G 6652 5000 750000 PARAG PARIKH LONG TERM G 6087 5000 500000 KOTAK FLEXI CAP FUND GROWTH 1694 145000 SBI BLUE CHIP GROWTH FUND 5814 550000 AXIS MIDCAP FUND DIVIDEND 2165 100000 SBI SMALL CAP REGULAR GROWTH 895 5000 170000 KOTAK EMERGING EQUITY FUND 1306 5000 180000 SBI LARGE AND MIDCAP FUND 261 5000 155000 MOTILAL NIFTY DEFENCE INDEX G 5000 45000 NPS 12000 10000 1700000 45000 5810000 Goals / Requirements : *Need following funds next year - daughter marriage 30 lacs and son education 50 lacs and my retirement corpus plus 15 lacs for car. *mutual fund portfolio re-alignment. Queries : *should i sell commercial shop and invest in FDs / MFs / Shares. Rental value is 50k which is less as compared to invest 2 cr in FDs also will fetch me 1.25 lacs per month. will be able meet next year requirement also without selling my liquid portfolio. *also should i go for SWPs for all inactive MFs upto to the extent of 45k to fund my SIP and NPS from allocation and can also increase the SIPs, if suggested. * should i increase NPS allocation by another 5k for better retirement prospects or any other suggestion related to retirement as to how much more money needed to meet ends.
Ans: Hello;

Query1:

Yes it is better to sell low rent yielding commercial property now, utilise the sell proceeds to fund you goals next year i.e. daughter's marriage, son's education and car purchase while the balance should be invested in mutual funds(equity savings type mutual fund)

Query 2:

Exit all inactive mutual funds and invest corpus(16.9 L) in Mirae Asset equity savings fund (low to moderate risk profile).

You should then start an SWP at 3.6% so as to generate income of 5 K for additional monthly allocation to NPS.

You should do SIP only in following 3 funds:
SBI hybrid equity fund(15 K)
HDFC balanced advantage fund (15 K)
ICICI Pru Multi asset allocation fund (15 K)

The taxation of these funds is like equity funds but they have exposure to alternate asset classes to impart some stability to corpus during extreme market fluctuations which is also suited for your age category.

Liquid assets+ gold+ NPS corpus will add up to approx 6.51 Cr which if annuitized will yield post tax monthly income of 2.15 L.

MF corpus may still grow to build up your inflation war chest.

Health care cover for family needs enhancement upto 50 L minimum as a safe precaution.

Reduce exposure to direct equity as you near retirement. You may continue trading as a hobby with a minimum risk capital with adequate knowhow, setup and temperament.

Happy Investing!!

You may follow us on X at @mars_invest for updates.

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |972 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 08, 2024Hindi
Listen
Career
Hello Sir I am making my question more clear.... I am currently in 12th standard. I have done 11th from Biology now instead of giving 12th boards I am thinking to give 11th exam with mathematics.... Will it be okay
Ans: Hello.
Thanks for contacting me again. As I said earlier, there is no need to take the 11th examination in mathematics. You can appear 12th Board examination with your chosen subjects. As of now, you are in 12th, it is easy for you to cover the important topics of mathematics from 11th and 12th in a short period. Hence appear directly for the board examination in mathematics subject.
Why are you not able to take the 12th board examination is yet not clear to me. Do you wish to appear for JEE is also not clear.
Conclusion/suggestion:
1) Drop the idea of repeating 11th with mathematics.
2) Appear 12th board examination in mathematics subject
3) You can easily cover the important topics from a passing point of view in a short period (max 30-45 days)

If you are dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
If satisfied, please like and follow me.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

...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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x