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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 06, 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
Prateek Question by Prateek on Aug 03, 2024Hindi
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I have few more queries can you please suggest your views. We have seen that properties rate grow twice or thrice in 4-5 yrs. But I don't have sufficient down payment as I keep in investing in mutual funds. Is it good to redeem mutual fund and with that amount invest in property. And if I you suggest not to redeem what is best way to invest in property. Sometime I feel to redeem all my investment and buy some property. You have mentioned increase NPS amount can you please suggest what will be good amount which can help meet my goal. I guess to meet retirement amount of 5cr you suggested that . Your answer has really helped me.

Ans: It's not advisable to redeem all your mutual funds to invest in property. Property investment is illiquid and carries higher risks. If you want to invest in property, consider saving separately for it without disturbing your current mutual fund investments.

You currently invest Rs. 50k annually in NPS. Consider increasing it to Rs. 1 lakh annually. This can help build a stronger retirement corpus and provides tax benefits.

For a more detailed and personalized financial plan, consult a Certified Financial Planner. They can help you align all your goals effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 24, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 24, 2025Hindi
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24.01.2025 Respected Sir, I have a land property valued 3cr. Now on this plot I am planning to build P+5 floor residential apartments For this I need a fund around 2.5cr for construction. Now I am 68 yrs old. I have invested 40L in various equities since last 44 years & 45L in Equity based M/F’s since last 14 years. Current market value is around 1.5cr & 1.60cr respectively. I am planning to raise funds from overdraft loans against my Equity shares & M/F at the current interest rate 10.35%.approx. I do not have any other source to raise the reqd. fund and I do not have any other liabilities. As per my assumptions in the next 7 to 8 years of period total market value of above investments will be around 10cr approx. I am planning SWP of Rs. 10 lacs every year to repay interest on OD. In what other ways is this possible to repay the dues? With out selling any unit of my property. Or In critical situation if arise I may sell out one unit to clear my OD loan debt. As a financial planning expert are my thoughts are correct in your opinion? I need your professional /practical advice & valuable guidance in this regard please. Please reply to my above query as early as possible. Thanks & Regards
Ans: Your plan demonstrates a well-thought-out approach to leveraging your investments while keeping liabilities manageable. Your decision to raise funds through an overdraft loan against shares and mutual funds is practical given the significant market value of your investments. However, there are a few aspects to evaluate for better clarity and financial stability.

Advantages of Your Strategy
Liquidity Without Selling Investments: Using an overdraft loan against your equity and mutual fund investments helps retain the assets.

SWP to Cover Interest Payments: A systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) ensures regular cash flow to meet interest expenses.

Property Value as Collateral: Your land property provides additional financial security.

Future Potential of Investments: Your expectation of Rs. 10 crore over 7-8 years appears reasonable given historical growth trends.

Concerns and Potential Risks
Market Volatility: Both equities and mutual funds are subject to market fluctuations.

Interest Burden: Over time, the compounding of the interest at 10.35% could strain liquidity.

Delays in Property Completion: Construction delays could impact cash flow plans.

Over-dependence on SWP: Over-reliance on SWP can erode long-term wealth if markets underperform.

Alternative Ways to Manage Overdraft Loan
Diversify Funding Sources
Split the Loan Amount: Explore partial loans from banks or NBFCs secured by the property itself.

Loan Against Fixed Deposits: Use your FD as collateral for a part of the loan.

Consider a Lower-Interest Loan: Negotiate with lenders for a lower interest rate.

Optimise SWP Strategy
Adjust Withdrawal Amount: Reduce SWP if the market experiences a downturn.

Partial Sale of Underperforming Units: Sell a small portion of underperforming investments to reduce the loan burden.

Construction Phasing
Build in Phases: Start with 2-3 floors initially to reduce the upfront loan requirement.

Rental Income from Early Units: Generate income from completed units to support loan repayment.

Emergency Backup Plan
Sell a Unit if Needed: Keep the option of selling one residential unit open to clear the loan.

Gold as Last Resort: Liquidate a small portion of gold only in extreme situations.

Tax Implications
Interest Deduction: Interest paid on loans for property construction could have tax benefits. Consult a tax expert for clarity.

Capital Gains on SWP Withdrawals: Gains from equity mutual fund SWP above Rs. 1.25 lakh per year will be taxed at 12.5%. Ensure tax liabilities are factored in.

Sale of Units: If you sell a unit to repay the loan, calculate the long-term capital gains taxes.

Key Points for Wealth Growth
Reinvest Profits Post Loan Repayment: Post-repayment, redirect surplus to equity or mutual funds for wealth growth.

Monitor Investments Regularly: Periodically review the performance of equity shares and mutual funds.

Diversify Investments: Post-retirement, ensure a diversified portfolio for steady income and wealth preservation.

Finally
Your plan is practical and aligns with your financial goals. However, diversification of funding sources, optimising SWP, and monitoring loan repayment are crucial. Prepare for market volatility and create an emergency backup plan. This approach ensures stability while maximising wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 01, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 28, 2025Hindi
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28.01.2025 Respected Sir, I have a land property valued 3cr. Now on this plot I am planning to build P+5 floor residential apartments For this I need a fund around 2.5cr for construction. Now I am 68 yrs old. I have invested 40L in various equities since last 44 years & 45L in Equity based M/F’s since last 14 years. Current market value is around 1.5cr & 1.60cr respectively. I am planning to raise funds from overdraft loans against my Equity shares & M/F at the current interest rate 10.35%.approx. I do not have any other source to raise the reqd. fund and I do not have any other liabilities. As per my assumptions in the next 7 to 8 years of period total market value of above investments will be around 10cr approx. I am planning SWP of Rs. 10 lacs every year to repay interest on OD. In what other ways is this possible to repay the dues? With out selling any unit of my property. Or In critical situation if arise I may sell out one unit to clear my OD loan debt. As a financial planning expert are my thoughts are correct in your opinion? I need your professional /practical advice & valuable guidance in this regard please. Please reply to my above query as early as possible. Thanks & Regards
Ans: Your plan to construct residential apartments using an overdraft loan against your equity and mutual fund investments is ambitious. You have strong assets, but leveraging them comes with risks. Let’s analyze your plan and explore alternatives.

Key Observations
You have Rs. 3 crore land value, which is a significant asset.
Your investments have grown well:
Equities: Rs. 1.5 crore (invested Rs. 40 lakh over 44 years).
Mutual Funds: Rs. 1.6 crore (invested Rs. 45 lakh over 14 years).
Total investment corpus: Rs. 3.1 crore.
You need Rs. 2.5 crore for construction.
You are considering an overdraft (OD) loan against securities at 10.35% interest.
You plan an SWP of Rs. 10 lakh per year to service the loan interest.
You expect your investments to grow to Rs. 10 crore in 7–8 years.
Evaluation of Your Plan
Loan Strategy Risks

High Interest Cost: At 10.35% interest, a Rs. 2.5 crore OD loan will have an interest cost of Rs. 25.87 lakh per year.
SWP May Not Be Enough: Rs. 10 lakh SWP per year will only cover about 40% of interest. The shortfall may require additional withdrawals.
Market Volatility: Your investments may not always perform as expected. A market downturn can affect your ability to repay the loan.
Margin Calls: If markets fall significantly, the lender may demand additional security or partial repayment.
Alternative Strategies
A. Loan Against Property (LAP) Instead of OD Loan

A Loan Against Property (LAP) at 8–9% interest would be cheaper than 10.35% OD loan.
Since you own land worth Rs. 3 crore, you can get 50–60% LTV (Rs. 1.5–1.8 crore).
Combine this with a smaller OD loan (Rs. 70 lakh–1 crore) to reduce interest burden.
B. Staggered Construction with Phased Funding

Instead of borrowing Rs. 2.5 crore upfront, consider building in phases.
Start with 2–3 floors using lower debt and rental pre-sales for funding.
C. Joint Venture with a Developer

Partner with a real estate developer who funds construction in exchange for a share of profits.
This reduces your financial risk and eliminates the need for a high-cost loan.
D. Selling a Small Portion of Land Instead of Borrowing

Instead of selling an apartment unit later, sell a small portion of land now to raise funds.
This avoids interest costs and maintains your control over remaining property.
Final Insights
Your plan is aggressive but risky due to high loan interest and market uncertainties.
A combination of Loan Against Property + Small OD Loan is better than relying fully on OD.
Consider phased construction, developer partnerships, or partial land sale to reduce debt.
Ensure your SWP plan is sustainable and accounts for market fluctuations.
Would you like help evaluating a detailed financial model for these scenarios?

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 31, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 30, 2025Hindi
Money
30.01.2025 Respected Sir, I have a land property valued 3cr. Now on this plot I am planning to build P+5 floor residential apartments For this I need a fund around 2.5cr for construction. Now I am 68 yrs old. I have invested 40L in various equities since last 44 years & 45L in Equity based M/F’s since last 14 years. Current market value is around 1.5cr & 1.60cr respectively. I am planning to raise funds from overdraft loans against my Equity shares & M/F at the current interest rate 10.35%.approx. I do not have any other source to raise the reqd. fund and I do not have any other liabilities. As per my assumptions in the next 7 to 8 years of period total market value of above investments will be around 10cr approx. I am planning SWP of Rs. 10 lacs every year to repay interest on OD. In what other ways is this possible to repay the dues? With out selling any unit of my property. Or In critical situation if arise I may sell out one unit to clear my OD loan debt. As a financial planning expert are my thoughts are correct in your opinion? I need your professional /practical advice & valuable guidance in this regard please. Please reply to my above query as early as possible. Thanks & Regards
Ans: You plan to construct a P+5 residential apartment on your Rs. 3 crore land.
You require Rs. 2.5 crore for construction.
You intend to raise this amount through an overdraft (OD) loan against your equity and mutual fund investments.
The interest rate on the OD loan is around 10.35%.
Your equity investments have grown from Rs. 40 lakh over 44 years to Rs. 1.5 crore.
Your mutual fund investments have grown from Rs. 45 lakh over 14 years to Rs. 1.6 crore.
You assume the combined value will grow to Rs. 10 crore in 7–8 years.
You plan to repay interest of Rs. 10 lakh per year via a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP).
You want to explore alternative ways to repay the dues without selling any property units unless absolutely necessary.
Evaluating the Feasibility of Your Plan
Your assumption of Rs. 10 crore growth in 7–8 years is ambitious.
The market is unpredictable, and equity/mutual fund returns fluctuate.
Withdrawing Rs. 10 lakh annually may impact portfolio growth.
An overdraft at 10.35% interest can create financial strain over time.
You lack an alternative source of repayment other than your investments.
Key Risks to Consider
Market Volatility: Equity and mutual funds do not guarantee fixed returns.
Liquidity Constraint: Your entire repayment strategy depends on market performance.
Interest Burden: The OD interest itself compounds over time, increasing financial stress.
Investment Depletion: A long-term SWP may erode your portfolio faster than expected.
Emergency Situations: If a financial crisis occurs, selling property may be unavoidable.
Alternative Ways to Raise Funds
1. Structured Loan Options
Instead of OD, consider a Loan Against Property (LAP).
Interest rates on LAP are lower (around 8–9%) than OD loans.
LAP has structured EMI payments, ensuring disciplined repayment.
2. Hybrid Repayment Strategy
Instead of SWP alone, mix dividend-paying mutual funds and rental income.
Dividend income can partially cover the OD interest.
Once the project is completed, rental income can contribute to repayments.
3. Joint Venture with a Developer
Partnering with a builder reduces your financial risk.
A developer may fund part or full construction in exchange for units.
This way, you avoid taking high-interest loans and minimize financial burden.
4. Selling a Fraction of the Property
If required, selling a single floor or part of the land can clear OD faster.
This ensures you retain majority ownership while reducing debt burden.
5. Staggered Construction Plan
Instead of building all 5 floors at once, construct in phases.
Use proceeds from early sales or rentals to fund later construction.
This reduces upfront borrowing and interest outflow.
How to Ensure Debt-Free Status
1. Focus on Lowering Interest Burden
Opt for a step-down repayment strategy.
As your portfolio grows, increase SWP withdrawals to prepay the OD faster.
Consider partial prepayments every 2–3 years to reduce interest outgo.
2. Generate Additional Income Streams
Explore senior citizen savings schemes (SCSS) and RBI floating rate bonds for stable income.
These instruments provide 7–8% interest, which can supplement OD repayment.
3. Avoid Over-Reliance on Stock Market
Instead of depending solely on equity returns, diversify into hybrid funds.
Hybrid funds provide stability while offering moderate growth.
4. Tax Optimization for Efficient Withdrawals
SWP from debt funds (held for 3+ years) enjoys lower capital gains tax.
Withdraw systematically to minimize tax impact on gains.
5. Contingency Plan for Unforeseen Situations
Keep a separate emergency fund to cover 1–2 years of interest payments.
This avoids distress selling in case of market downturns.
Final Insights
Your plan has potential but carries high financial risks.
Over-reliance on equity/mutual funds can backfire in a volatile market.
Consider alternative funding options like LAP or a joint venture.
A staggered construction approach can ease financial pressure.
Maintain flexibility in your repayment strategy to adjust for market conditions.
If you need a customized investment and repayment roadmap, consulting a Certified Financial Planner can ensure a secure financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 07, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 03, 2025Hindi
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03.02.2025 Respected Sir, I have a land property valued 3cr. Now on this plot I am planning to build P+5 floor residential apartments For this I need a fund around 2.5cr for construction. Now I am 68 yrs old. I have invested 40L in various equities since last 44 years & 45L in Equity based M/F’s since last 14 years. Current market value is around 1.5cr & 1.60cr respectively. I am planning to raise funds from overdraft loans against my Equity shares & M/F at the current interest rate 10.35%.approx. I do not have any other source to raise the reqd. fund and I do not have any other liabilities. As per my assumptions in the next 7 to 8 years of period total market value of above investments will be around 10cr approx. I am planning SWP of Rs. 10 lacs every year to repay interest on OD. In what other ways is this possible to repay the dues? With out selling any unit of my property. Or In critical situation if arise I may sell out one unit to clear my OD loan debt. As a financial planning expert are my thoughts are correct in your opinion? I need your professional /practical advice & valuable guidance in this regard please. Please reply to my above query as early as possible. Thanks & Regards
Ans: Your plan to build residential apartments is ambitious. At 68, managing a large loan requires careful planning. Let’s analyse your strategy and explore alternatives.

Current Financial Position
Land Value: Rs 3 crore
Investment Portfolio:
Rs 40 lakh in equities (44 years old)
Rs 45 lakh in equity mutual funds (14 years old)
Current market value: Rs 1.5 crore (equities) + Rs 1.6 crore (mutual funds) = Rs 3.1 crore
Construction Cost: Rs 2.5 crore
Planned Funding: Overdraft against equity and mutual funds at 10.35% interest
Repayment Plan:
SWP of Rs 10 lakh per year to pay loan interest
Sell one unit in case of emergency
Your asset base is strong. However, the risk in this strategy is high.

Key Risks and Challenges
1. High-Interest Cost on Overdraft
Overdraft loans at 10.35% will be costly.
Rs 2.5 crore loan will lead to an annual interest burden of Rs 25-27 lakh.
SWP of Rs 10 lakh will not fully cover this.
Solution: Consider partial self-funding to reduce interest costs.

2. Market Uncertainty on Investments
Future value of Rs 10 crore in 7-8 years is only an assumption.
Market downturns can affect equity and mutual funds.
SWP will reduce compounding benefits.
Solution: Reduce reliance on market returns for loan repayment.

3. Construction and Selling Risks
Construction cost overruns can increase funding needs.
Delayed sales can impact repayment strategy.
Real estate markets fluctuate, affecting unit sales.
Solution: Plan for a financial buffer beyond Rs 2.5 crore.

Alternative Strategies for Safer Execution
1. Staggered Construction Approach
Instead of taking Rs 2.5 crore in one go, build in phases.
Sell initial units to fund later phases.
Reduces borrowing costs and risks.
2. Explore Joint Venture with a Developer
Developers may fund part of the project.
You can negotiate revenue-sharing instead of taking a large loan.
Reduces financial burden and execution risk.
3. Loan Against Property Instead of Equities
Loans against property have lower interest rates than overdrafts.
This option provides a longer tenure and stable repayment terms.
Ensures investments remain untouched for growth.
4. Keep Emergency Exit Plan Ready
If market returns don’t meet expectations, debt burden increases.
Pre-plan which unit to sell if needed.
Ensure liquidity through alternative arrangements.
Final Insights
Your financial base is strong, but your funding strategy has risks.

Overdraft loans at 10.35% can strain your cash flow.
SWP from mutual funds may not fully cover interest payments.
Market assumptions for Rs 10 crore in 7-8 years are uncertain.
A safer approach is:

Consider phased construction or a joint venture.
Explore lower-cost loans, such as against property.
Keep a contingency plan for early debt repayment.
Your idea is bold, but a conservative funding strategy will reduce risks. Careful execution will ensure financial security while completing your project.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

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Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |351 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Apr 28, 2025

Career
Hello sir .I attempted neet 3times in 2022 I scored 605,then 585 in 2023 then I joined bsc Life science and again prepared scored 652 in 2024 but due to scam everything messed up I was not attending my bsc classes from sem-2 which gave me a back .clg told me to re enroll as ex student but I thought to give neet once again.Intially I didn't knew that the spark has left I was tired .Now I don't have confidence though I am studying but I don't have that spark I used to have .What should I do sir plz help me out . My mother told me to prepare for some other government job exams if I didn't get selected this year .plz help
Ans: Hi Abilasha,

A score of 652 in NEET is no joke. Have you checked what went wrong in that exam? Analyzing your performance is essential.

I think you may not have had the moral support you needed, which is why you chose to pursue a BSc. It’s challenging to juggle multiple tasks, such as preparing for NEET while attending a regular course. Nowadays, there are many distractions like friends and social media, not to mention the plethora of advice and predictions from the media that can feel overwhelming. There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; it varies from person to person. We humans are unique and shouldn't simply follow what others say.

Your goal is to become a physician, and that should be your main focus. I noticed that you didn’t mention which specialization you chose for your BSc. If you had selected subjects related to NEET—like Chemistry, Biology, and Physics—you could have focused on them without needing to study the same topics separately and could have dedicated more time to the other subjects.

In recent years, we have started to encounter these kinds of entrance exams and experiences, and we still need to go through exit exams.

So, don't let anything worry you. Focus on one task at a time and complete it. I believe you are capable of accomplishing your goal this year.

ALL THE BEST.
For any further questions, please feel free to ask.
POOCHO. LIFE CHANGE KARO.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 28, 2025
Money
Dear Sir/Madam, I am considering investing in a commercial property located approximately 3-5 kilometers from the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. I have identified a few commercial areas priced around Rs. 40 lakhs, offering a carpet area between 100-200 square feet. The anticipated average monthly rental yield is approximately Rs. 15,000. I plan to invest Rs. 25 lakhs of my own funds and would like to secure a bank loan for the remaining Rs. 15 lakhs. Currently, I have no existing loan liabilities and am employed in a salaried position. However, I am uncertain if this is a wise investment decision, especially since my bank EMI would exceed the expected monthly rental yield, and I may face additional expenses related to the property purchase. I would greatly appreciate your guidance on this matter. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Ans: You have rightly thought about growing your wealth.

Investing with careful assessment is always a smart and disciplined move.

You are trying to create an extra income source, which is a wonderful financial habit.

However, your current investment plan needs careful re-evaluation.

Your concern about EMI being higher than rent is very valid.

You are already spotting possible cash flow risks at an early stage.

That shows your awareness and maturity towards financial planning.

Three cheers for this clarity at the beginning itself.

Analysis of Your Commercial Property Plan

Property near a new airport can seem attractive to many investors.

However, real estate investments have hidden risks and complexities.

Your rental yield expected is Rs. 15,000 per month.

But your EMI for Rs. 15 lakh loan will be higher than Rs. 15,000.

Thus, there will be a cash shortfall every month.

Also, maintenance charges, property taxes, brokerage fees will further eat into returns.

Finding a tenant immediately after purchase is also not guaranteed.

There could be long vacancy periods with no rent income.

Repairs, legal paperwork, society charges will cause unexpected additional expenses.

If tenant defaults, the recovery process is complicated and stressful.

Selling commercial property in future can also take a lot of time.

Real estate resale value depends on market cycles, which are not predictable.

Commercial spaces sometimes stay unsold or unrented for many months.

Hence, your investment capital will be locked and liquidity will become poor.

You will not be able to exit easily during an emergency.

Further, real estate price growth is slow and sometimes stagnant.

Even in prime locations, commercial properties carry such risks.

Thus, it is not ideal for generating safe monthly income.

Assessing Your Monthly Cash Flow Stability

You are a salaried person without any loan burden now.

Taking a new loan when EMI exceeds income from asset is risky.

It can cause high financial stress if job loss or salary cut happens.

Debt without guaranteed cash inflow weakens your financial strength.

Financial freedom comes by reducing liabilities, not by increasing EMIs unnecessarily.

Right now, you should focus on strengthening your cash flow safety.

Ensure your investments earn stable and predictable income for you.

Avoid entering into investments where outflows are bigger than inflows.

A mismatch in cash flow can derail your future financial goals.

Alternative and Safer Investment Strategy

You have a wonderful opportunity to invest Rs. 40 lakh wisely.

Instead of commercial property, choose safer and smarter options.

Invest in a diversified portfolio of debt mutual funds and hybrid mutual funds.

Opt for regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner for guided support.

Debt mutual funds provide stable returns and monthly income through SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan).

Hybrid mutual funds (Balanced Advantage Funds) can protect against inflation better.

Actively managed funds perform better than index funds in tough markets.

In index funds, you are tied to market ups and downs with no professional edge.

Hence, actively managed funds through a CFP offer better risk-managed growth.

Debt mutual funds taxation is reasonable under the new rules from April 2024.

Long-term capital gains are taxed as per income slab in debt funds.

For equity mutual funds, LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5% now.

Overall, the post-tax returns in mutual funds are attractive compared to property rentals.

Also, mutual fund portfolios are far more liquid than real estate.

You can sell or redeem easily whenever needed without heavy expenses.

Emergency Fund Creation Should be Priority

Before thinking about monthly income investments, secure an emergency fund.

Park 6 to 12 months of your expenses in liquid mutual funds.

Liquid funds are safe, low-risk, and can be withdrawn anytime within 1-2 days.

Never depend only on salary or investment income without a backup emergency fund.

Emergency funds give huge mental peace and financial confidence.

Health and Life Insurance Check

Ensure you have adequate health insurance cover for you and your family.

Minimum Rs. 10-15 lakh health cover is recommended individually.

Without health cover, one hospitalization can destroy your savings.

Also, take a pure term life insurance cover if dependents exist.

Avoid ULIP and endowment policies for insurance, they are not cost effective.

Pure term plan provides large cover at low premium, ensuring financial protection.

Retirement Planning Should Also Be Balanced

While creating monthly income now, plan for future retirement too.

Allocate some portion to long-term equity mutual funds through SIP.

This ensures you beat inflation and create a good retirement corpus.

Today’s Rs. 15,000 monthly expenses will be Rs. 50,000 after 20 years.

Hence, balancing current income needs and future corpus building is very important.

Important Risks If You Invest in Property Now

Cash flow mismatch (EMI greater than rent)

Long periods of vacancy

High transaction cost in buying and selling property

Maintenance cost, repairs, tenant-related legal issues

Property market volatility and slow appreciation

Difficulty in exiting when urgently needed funds

Poor liquidity compared to mutual funds

Simple Action Plan for You Now

Do not invest in commercial property at this stage

Invest in diversified mutual funds portfolio (Debt + Hybrid funds)

Start SWP for monthly income after proper fund selection with CFP guidance

Build emergency fund in liquid mutual funds (Rs. 4 to 6 lakh)

Take health insurance and term insurance cover without delay

Keep small allocation for long-term SIPs for retirement corpus

Review portfolio every 6-12 months with a Certified Financial Planner

Finally

Your goal of building a stable monthly income is very good.

However, investing in commercial property near airport is risky and unsuitable now.

Focus on low-risk, liquid and inflation-beating mutual funds for regular income.

Have a well-rounded 360-degree financial plan covering income, emergency, insurance, and retirement.

Your financial journey will be much safer, stronger, and stress-free.

Right strategy today will help you achieve real financial freedom tomorrow.

You are already thinking smartly, now just align execution with a structured plan.

If you wish to reach out personally, you can connect through my website mentioned below.

This platform restricts direct personal contact sharing. Hope you understand.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8297 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 28, 2025
Money
Sir, I am an NRI (aus), 40 years old. I am aiming for 10cr in 10 years with 20L per year investment. I zeroed in the following, are they good? Assuming 15% growth per annum. Parag Parekh flexi cap direct Axis flexi cap direct g HDFC mid cap opportunities direct g SBI small cap fund direct g ICICI pru technology direct g.
Ans: You want to build Rs 10 crore in 10 years.

You plan to invest Rs 20 lakh per year.

Your target is very inspiring and focused.

You assume 15% growth per year from investments.

This ambition is achievable but needs careful planning and right execution.

At 40 years, you still have time, but need to be very disciplined.

It is good that you are thinking seriously about long-term wealth creation.

However, we need to assess the investment choices deeply.

Evaluation of Your Current Selection
You have selected 5 direct mutual fund schemes.

You selected flexi cap, mid cap, small cap and technology sector funds.

Your selection shows you are willing to take higher equity risk.

Still, few important points must be considered before proceeding.

I will explain the strengths and risks clearly below.

Problems with Direct Mutual Funds
Direct mutual funds are cheaper but not automatically better.

Without Certified Financial Planner guidance, wrong direct fund choices can happen.

Direct funds need constant monitoring and periodic rebalancing.

If you miss reviewing, risk will increase over years.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner + MFD gives full 360-degree service.

A regular plan managed through MFD with CFP ensures disciplined monitoring.

Professional rebalancing keeps your portfolio healthy against market ups and downs.

Saving 1% expense ratio is not useful if you lose 20% capital by wrong strategy.

Thus, direct funds are not recommended for serious wealth building goals like yours.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Although you have not mentioned Index funds, still important to highlight here.

Index funds blindly follow the market, they do not aim to beat it.

They invest even in poor companies just because they are in index.

No active decision-making to protect during market fall.

In India, actively managed funds have consistently outperformed index funds.

Index funds are good only in developed countries, not in India yet.

Thus, actively managed mutual funds are better for your 10 crore goal.

Analysis of Your Selected Categories
Now let's look at each category you have selected.

Flexi Cap Funds
Flexi cap funds are very versatile and flexible.

They invest across large, mid, and small cap companies.

They are core funds and suitable for long term investing.

Having two different flexi cap funds is slightly overlapping.

One good flexi cap fund is enough.

Select based on strong consistent performance under Certified Financial Planner guidance.

Mid Cap Fund
Mid caps offer higher growth potential compared to large caps.

They also carry higher volatility risk.

Mid cap exposure must be limited to 20-25% of portfolio.

Selection of quality midcap fund is critical.

Blind selection can backfire badly during market corrections.

Small Cap Fund
Small caps are even more volatile than mid caps.

They give high returns only when market is extremely strong.

In down markets, they can fall 60-70%.

Small cap exposure should not exceed 10-15% of total portfolio.

Handling small caps requires experienced monitoring.

Not suitable for very aggressive allocation unless monitored monthly by CFP.

Technology Sector Fund
Sector funds like technology funds are very risky.

If sector performs, gains will be big.

If sector underperforms, losses will be severe.

Sector exposure should be maximum 5-10% of your portfolio.

Technology sector is very cyclical and policy dependent.

Too much sector allocation can derail your 10 crore goal.

Ideal Structure for You
Now, based on your inputs, here is a better structure for you.

Again, no scheme names are suggested, as per your instruction.

Core Portfolio (65% to 70%)
One strong Flexi Cap fund (managed by good fund manager).

One Large and Mid Cap fund (balanced approach towards large caps and midcaps).

One Conservative Hybrid Equity Fund (for stability during market volatility).

Satellite Portfolio (30% to 35%)
One focused Mid Cap fund with proven track record.

One selected Small Cap fund but with strict monitoring.

Minimal sector exposure like Technology, not more than 5%.

Regular review of sector allocation every quarter.

Important Points to Consider
Maintain proper diversification across sectors and market caps.

Avoid duplication of same category funds.

Choose only consistent long-term performers.

Annual rebalancing is a must.

Review fund performance once in 6 months minimum.

Align investments based on market valuations with CFP guidance.

Managing Risk and Returns
When aiming for Rs 10 crore, managing risk is as important as earning returns.

Never keep 100% equity exposure throughout 10 years.

Move part of profits to safer instruments as you near 10 years.

Create an asset allocation roadmap now itself.

Follow the roadmap strictly under Certified Financial Planner supervision.

Use Systematic Transfer Plans (STPs) whenever shifting money between categories.

Inflation and Taxes
Inflation is your biggest enemy, bigger than taxes.

At 6% inflation, Rs 10 crore after 10 years will feel like Rs 5.5 crore today.

Thus, you must keep wealth creation target a little higher than 10 crore.

New MF Capital Gain Tax rules must be kept in mind:

Equity fund LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains taxed at 20%.

Debt funds fully taxed as per your income slab.

Plan withdrawals carefully to minimise tax impact.

Importance of Certified Financial Planner Support
Since you are serious about wealth creation, professional support is very important.

A Certified Financial Planner will give you:

Proper asset allocation based on your risk capacity.

Right fund selection based on 360-degree analysis.

Regular portfolio review and timely rebalancing.

Tax efficient withdrawal planning.

Contingency planning in case of emergencies.

Alignment of investments with your long term goals.

Emotional discipline during market volatility.

Peace of mind that your future is well protected.

Final Insights
You have shown excellent clarity and commitment towards your financial goals.

However, building Rs 10 crore is a serious, full-time task needing expert care.

Your fund selection direction is good but needs fine-tuning for stability and efficiency.

Direct mutual funds without professional guidance can expose you to unnecessary risks.

Active management, regular reviews, dynamic rebalancing will increase your success chances.

Focus on wealth preservation as much as on wealth creation over next 10 years.

Please make sure your family is also aware of your plans and investments.

I sincerely appreciate your proactive and visionary thinking for your future.

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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