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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 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
Yelamanchili Question by Yelamanchili on Feb 27, 2023Hindi
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GOOD MORNING Dr , request to suggest for a health policy for a person who works in sea ( say approx 200kms away from shore) for 50 to 90 days at a stretch & having break for rest( 2 to 5 weeks) & resume likely again 50 to 90 days( work location in gulf areas ie abudhabi, Quattar, Soudi, Iran etc)Base stay in viskhapatnam AndhraPradesh India.Kindly recommend suitable policy to meet this nature of policy ( helicopter ambulance is needed to shift from ship to shore admit in hospital).Trust our requirement is understood ,kindly do needful. With best regards, YPRaju

Ans: Mr. Raju. Given your unique work situation and the need for comprehensive health coverage that includes helicopter ambulance services, here are some health insurance policies you may consider:

Global Health Policies: These policies offer coverage both internationally and domestically. They provide extensive coverage for hospitalization, outpatient treatments, and emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter ambulance services.

Marine Crew Insurance: Specialized policies designed for individuals working in marine or offshore sectors. They offer coverage tailored to the needs of seafarers, including emergency medical evacuation.

International Health Insurance: These policies offer worldwide coverage and are suitable for individuals who travel frequently for work. They provide comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, including emergency services and evacuation.

Critical Illness Cover: Considering the nature of your work and frequent travels, a critical illness cover can be added to your health insurance policy to provide financial support in case of serious illnesses.

Things to Consider:

Coverage Area: Ensure the policy covers medical treatments in the countries you frequent for work.
Emergency Evacuation: Confirm that the policy includes coverage for emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter ambulance services.
Policy Renewability: Opt for a policy with lifetime renewability to ensure continuous coverage.
Sum Insured: Choose a sum insured amount based on your healthcare needs and the cost of medical treatments in the countries you visit.
Please consult with an insurance advisor or broker to find the best policy that meets your specific requirements and provides comprehensive coverage both in India and internationally. Ensure you read the policy documents carefully to understand the coverage, exclusions, and terms and conditions before purchasing.
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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Sanjib

Sanjib Jha  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance Expert - Answered on May 31, 2022

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This is Bobby here and have a few questions related to your article (enclosed), Mediclaim: What You Must Know Would like to know, with your experience in this field, as to: 1. Which mediclaim policy or policies, currently in INDIA and especially Mumbai has all the required coverage as mentioned in your article 2. We are a family of 3 with a school going child and both of us are aged 45 3. Have acquired diabetes a few months ago and have hepatitis B and kidney stones  4. What should be the approximate premium, per annum to cover all that is mentioned in your article and keep us safe from the issues arising out if and when we really require hospitalisation and save us from rejected claims.   5. Presently we are covered under Mediclaim policy from Star Health Would be highly obliged should you guide us on the above to make our lives easier.
Ans: Hi Bhupesh, there is no ‘one size fits all’ concept with health insurance. Health insurance is based on preferences of the customer and then the premium quotes are generated based on those factors. You can use insurance broking websites to compare the offerings on the mentioned 5 factors and the premiums for various policies that will help you to compare their benefits and make an informed choice. Depending on your priorities, weigh out the factors and decide accordingly.

Since you have mentioned about your family, you can opt for Family Health Insurance policies with an appropriate sum insured to cover your entire family. Like I have mentioned before, premiums are unique to individuals depending on their preferences, the sum insured they deem suitable, the riders they choose, their medical history etc.

What you can do to ensure you buy the correct policy for yourself is to evaluate policies carefully, keeping in mind the 5 important parameters.

:

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Sanjib

Sanjib Jha  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance Expert - Answered on Oct 12, 2022

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 I am an employee of central govt. PSU. My family consists of myself, spouse, two minor children and mother. I am covered by a corporate group medical insurance policy for Rs 2 lakh with an additional emergency coverage of Rs 4 lakh by the employer. I also have a personal Family Floater policy for Rs 3 lakh and a Sr. Ctzn. Policy for Rs 1 lakh. I have not used the personal policies till date for any hospitalisation claim. I am aware that a claim exceeding the corporate policy limit can be claimed in the personal policy. Recently I was made to know that any planned hospitalisation exceeding the corporate claim limit, cannot be done using the second policy. I also know that there is a product called as top up policy which can be used in such cases. I have 8 years of remaining service where there is a medical insurance cover during the period. After retirement, the employer provides a basic policy of 1.5 lakh for the family. The same feels to be insufficient in today’s times. What would be your advice with regards to the existing medical insurance policies and their amounts? Should I need to undertake any tweaking of the policy amounts or switch to a top up policy?
Ans: Hi Pradeep, yours is a legit concern. It would be best if you take advice from a professional person or company – having the necessary qualifications -- after discussing your issue with them.

Insurance is each to its own. Depending on your concerns and requirements a professional service provider will be able to give you the best advice, whether to tweak policy amount or switch to top up.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 2024

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Im 62 year old and retired person. I am looking for health insurance policy for me and my wife who is 52 year old and housewife. I am suffering from high BP, Cervical and Lumber spondylitis, knee osteoarthritis, IBS and taking medicines for last 10-12 years. My wife has hypothyroidism, spondylitis and diabetes Please suggest better health insurance policy. Also suggest whether individual or family policy will be better Regards
Ans: I understand you're looking for a good health insurance plan for you and your wife. That's a smart decision, especially considering your health conditions. Let's break it down to help you choose the best option:

Understanding Pre-existing Conditions:

Your existing health conditions (BP, spondylitis, etc.) are called pre-existing conditions. These might affect your policy options and premiums.
Individual vs. Family Plan:

Family plan: Covers you and your wife together under one plan. It can be cheaper, but coverage limits get shared.
Individual plans: Separate plans for each of you. More flexibility, but might cost slightly more overall.
Considering Your Needs:

Pre-existing condition coverage: Look for plans that cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period (if any).
Hospitalization coverage: Choose a plan with sufficient coverage for hospitalization expenses.
Medicines: Check if the plan covers medicines you take regularly.
Finding the Right Plan:

Talk to a CFP professional: A Certified Financial Planner can assess your needs and recommend suitable plans from different insurers.
Compare plans online: Many insurance companies offer online plan comparisons. Look for plans that cover pre-existing conditions and have good network hospitals in your area.
Here's a quick tip: Since your wife is younger and has a different health profile, individual plans might be better. This allows you to get customized coverage based on your specific needs.

Remember: Don't hesitate to ask questions! Choosing the right health insurance is important, and a CFP professional can guide you through the process.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

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I purchased a flat under-construction in the year 2016. Till now I have not got the flat some dispute happen among the builder. The project matter is under court. I am paying huge emi bank is not ready to me listen they say if you do not pay emi your credit score will hamper what to do
Ans: I understand this is a frustrating situation. Here are some steps you can take:

Regarding the Flat:

Review your Sale Agreement: This document outlines the terms of your purchase, including timelines for completion and any delay penalties the builder may owe.

Form a Flat Buyer Association: Connect with other buyers facing the same issue. A united front holds more power when dealing with the builder or legal proceedings.

Track Court Proceedings: Stay informed about the court case's progress. This might influence your next steps.

Explore Legal Options: Consult a lawyer specializing in real estate disputes. They can advise on pursuing compensation or withdrawal from the project depending on the court case and agreement.

Regarding the Bank Loan:

Negotiate with the Bank: Explain the situation and present copies of the court case documents. They might offer a temporary pause or restructure your EMI plan.

Consider Loan Against Property (LAP): If you own another property, explore a LAP to pay off the existing loan and avoid credit score damage. However, this is a complex financial decision, so consult a financial advisor.

CIBIL Dispute Resolution: If the bank reports a default despite your efforts, you can raise a dispute with CIBIL, the credit bureau, explaining the situation.

Here are some additional resources that might be helpful:

Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA): https://rera.goa.gov.in/ (if your city falls under RERA)
Consumer Forum: You can file a case against the builder for delayed possession.
Remember, this is a complex situation, and the best course of action might depend on the specifics of your agreement, the court case, and your financial situation. Consulting a lawyer and potentially a financial advisor can provide tailored guidance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 20, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I am a Muslim wanting to Invest according to Shariah principle. I have a net Income of about 2 lakhs INR/month. I am 37 and looking to create a corpus of 1.5 crore by the time I am 50.. As a practicing Muslim, I want to ensure the investment is Shariah compliant. I have a strength of investing upto 50k/month and this may grow in the future too! kindly suggest what would be my best options.
Ans: Crafting a Shariah-Compliant Investment Strategy for Your Financial Objectives
In your pursuit of building a corpus of 1.5 crore by the age of 50, aligned with Shariah principles, we'll outline a tailored investment strategy leveraging various Shariah-compliant avenues and prudent financial planning.

Understanding Shariah-Compliant Investing
Core Principles of Shariah Compliance
Shariah-compliant investing emphasizes ethical and responsible investment practices, steering clear of businesses engaged in activities incompatible with Islamic teachings, such as alcohol, gambling, and interest-based transactions. It prioritizes transparency, fairness, and social responsibility.

Importance of Ethical Investing
Adhering to Shariah principles not only ensures compliance with religious beliefs but also promotes socially responsible investment practices, fostering financial growth with integrity. By investing ethically, you contribute to sustainable development and positive social impact.

Shariah-Compliant Investment Options
Islamic Mutual Funds
Invest in Islamic mutual funds that adhere to Shariah guidelines, allocating funds to companies compliant with Islamic principles, thus offering a diversified portfolio of Shariah-compliant stocks. These funds undergo rigorous screening processes to ensure adherence to Shariah principles.

Shariah-Compliant Equities
Diversify your investment portfolio with Shariah-compliant equities, selecting stocks of companies operating in permissible sectors, screened based on Shariah criteria. These criteria typically exclude businesses involved in industries such as alcohol, tobacco, and gambling.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Consider investing in Shariah-compliant REITs, which provide exposure to real estate assets while adhering to Islamic finance principles, offering potential rental income and capital appreciation. Shariah-compliant REITs invest in properties and assets that comply with Shariah guidelines.

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
Explore Shariah-compliant ETFs that track indices comprised of Shariah-compliant stocks, providing diversification and liquidity within a Shariah-compliant framework. These ETFs offer investors exposure to a basket of Shariah-compliant stocks across various sectors.

Wealth Accumulation Strategy
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Implement a SIP approach, allocating a portion of your monthly income to Shariah-compliant investment avenues, fostering disciplined wealth accumulation over time. SIPs allow for regular and systematic investment, enabling you to benefit from rupee cost averaging and the power of compounding.

Asset Allocation and Diversification
Employ prudent asset allocation strategies, diversifying your investment portfolio across various Shariah-compliant asset classes to mitigate risk and optimize returns. A well-diversified portfolio helps spread risk and enhances the potential for long-term wealth creation.

Goal-Based Financial Planning
Defining Financial Objectives
Define clear financial goals, including the target corpus of 1.5 crore by age 50, and tailor your investment strategy to align with these objectives. Consider factors such as risk tolerance, time horizon, and liquidity requirements when crafting your financial plan.

Regular Portfolio Review
Regularly review and rebalance your investment portfolio, ensuring alignment with Shariah principles and adjusting your asset allocation as per changing market dynamics. Periodic portfolio reviews help you stay on track towards your financial goals and make necessary adjustments when required.

Seeking Professional Guidance
Consultation with Certified Financial Planners (CFPs)
Engage with Certified Financial Planners specializing in Shariah-compliant investing, seeking personalized advice to optimize your investment strategy and achieve your financial goals. A CFP can help you navigate the complexities of Shariah-compliant investing and provide tailored recommendations based on your unique circumstances.

Continuous Learning and Education
Stay informed about developments in Shariah-compliant investment options and financial planning strategies, empowering yourself to make informed investment decisions aligned with your values. Continuous learning and education are essential for staying abreast of market trends and maximizing investment opportunities.

By embracing a diversified approach to Shariah-compliant investing and seeking guidance from Certified Financial Planners, you can navigate the investment landscape with confidence and work towards realizing your financial aspirations while upholding your religious beliefs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Moneywize

Moneywize   |108 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on May 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 16, 2024Hindi
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I recently graduated in my mid-20s with an entry-level job earning Rs 36 lakhs annually. How can I start building a strong financial foundation for the future, considering my current income and career stage?
Ans: Congratulations on graduating and starting your career! That's an exciting time, and with a starting salary of Rs 36 lakh, you're in a good position to build a strong financial foundation for the future. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Track your income and expenses: This is the first crucial step. Understanding where your money goes will help you identify areas to save and budget effectively. There are many budgeting apps and spreadsheets available to help you with this.

2. Create a budget: Once you've tracked your expenses for a month or two, categorise them into needs (rent, groceries, transportation), wants (entertainment, dining out), and debt repayments. Aim to allocate a higher percentage towards needs and debt repayment, and a smaller percentage towards wants.

3. Build an emergency fund: Having an emergency fund of 3-6 months' worth of living expenses will act as a safety net for unexpected events like job loss or medical bills. Aim to save at least Rs 1-2 lakh initially and gradually build it up.

4. Manage your debt: If you have any student loans or credit card debt, prioritize paying them off. High-interest debt can quickly eat away at your savings. Consider a debt snowball strategy, where you focus on paying off the smallest debt first to gain momentum.

5. Start saving for retirement: Even though retirement might seem far off, starting early allows you to benefit from compound interest. Many companies in India offer Employee Provident Fund (EPF) schemes, where a portion of your salary goes towards retirement savings. You can also explore investing in Public Provident Fund (PPF) or National Pension System (NPS) for long-term wealth creation.

6. Invest for your goals: Once you have an emergency fund and are on track with debt repayment, consider investing for your future goals. This could be anything from a down payment on a house to a dream vacation. Research different investment options like mutual funds or stocks based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Additional tips for your mid-20s:

• Live below your means: Don't let lifestyle inflation creep in as your income increases.
• Focus on skill development: Invest in yourself by taking courses or certifications that can help you advance in your career and potentially increase your earning potential.
• Automate your finances: Set up automatic transfers to your savings and investment accounts to ensure consistent saving.
• Seek professional advice: Consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized guidance based on your specific financial situation and goals.

Remember, building a strong financial foundation is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, consistent, and disciplined with your finances, and you'll be well on your way to a secure future.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

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Sir, I'm 50yrs old. I earn rs 60p.m. kindly suggest low risk mutual fund so that I can get pension from ,60 yrs to 70 yrs.
Ans: Building a Low-Risk Mutual Fund Strategy for Your Retirement Pension
It's wise to plan ahead for your retirement years, and mutual funds can play a crucial role in generating a steady income stream. Let's explore a low-risk mutual fund strategy tailored to your needs.

Understanding Your Retirement Needs
Income Requirement
With a monthly income target of Rs 60,000 during your retirement years from 60 to 70, ensuring a stable and reliable income source is essential.

Risk Preference
Considering your preference for low-risk investments, prioritizing capital preservation while generating consistent returns is paramount.

Low-Risk Mutual Fund Selection Criteria
Stability
Focus on mutual funds with a history of stable performance and lower volatility, minimizing the risk of significant fluctuations in your investment value.

Consistent Returns
Prioritize funds with a track record of delivering steady returns over the long term, aligning with your goal of sustaining a reliable pension income.

Diversification
Opt for mutual funds that offer diversification across asset classes, such as a balanced mix of equity and debt securities, to mitigate risk effectively.

Recommended Mutual Fund Categories
Debt Mutual Funds
Allocate a substantial portion of your investment towards debt mutual funds, which primarily invest in fixed-income securities, providing stable returns with relatively lower risk.

Conservative Hybrid Funds
Consider conservative hybrid funds, which maintain a conservative allocation to equities while predominantly investing in debt instruments, striking a balance between growth and stability.

Short-Term Debt Funds
Explore short-term debt funds, which invest in fixed-income securities with shorter maturity periods, offering stability and liquidity while minimizing interest rate risk.

Retirement Income Strategy
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Implement a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) from your selected mutual funds, allowing you to receive a regular income stream while keeping your principal amount invested.

Regular Portfolio Review
Periodically review your mutual fund portfolio to ensure it continues to meet your income requirements and risk tolerance, making adjustments as needed.

Final Thoughts
Professional Guidance
Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor your mutual fund strategy according to your retirement goals and risk profile, ensuring a secure financial future.

By strategically allocating your investments across low-risk mutual fund categories, you can build a retirement portfolio designed to provide a steady pension income during your golden years.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 20, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, I am 39 year old. Invested in stocks upto 1 lakh.Invested in gold for 2lakhs. Invested in ppf upto 13 lakhs and continuing it, investing in SSY upto 1lakhs from 2019 for girl child.Invested in NPS upto 1 lakh. Having term insurance for 2cr paying 3800rs per month. Having endowment policy for next 21 years. Having medical insurance upto 30 lakh sum assured having premium about 70k per year for myself, dependant and a kid. Having medical insurance sum assured upto 5 lakh each for parents having premium of 42k per year. Having a car loan of 20lakhs for next 4 years, having a personal loan of upto 4 lakhs and will end up in December. Planning for retirement corpus of 5 cr in next 15 years, and planning for child higher education for 12 years with 2 cr and marriage in next 20 years for another 2cr. Planning to buy plot in 3 years worth 75 lakhs, Which mutual fund needs to be considered to achieve these goal?
Ans: Crafting a Mutual Fund Strategy for Your Financial Goals
It's commendable that you're actively planning for your financial future. Let's outline a strategic approach using mutual funds to achieve your goals.

Assessing Financial Goals
Retirement Corpus
Your target retirement corpus of 5 crores in 15 years requires a disciplined investment strategy with a focus on long-term wealth creation.

Child's Higher Education and Marriage
For your child's education and marriage, aiming for a combined corpus of 4 crores over the next 12 and 20 years, respectively, necessitates a balanced investment approach.

Plot Purchase
Planning to buy a plot worth 75 lakhs in 3 years requires short to medium-term investment options with capital appreciation potential.

Mutual Fund Selection Criteria
Goal Horizon
Align mutual fund selections with the time horizon of each financial goal, focusing on funds with proven track records of consistent returns over the required investment duration.

Risk Appetite
Consider your risk tolerance and opt for a diversified mix of mutual funds spanning various asset classes to mitigate risk while aiming for optimal returns.

Tax Efficiency
Select mutual funds that offer tax efficiency, such as equity-linked saving schemes (ELSS), to leverage tax benefits while investing for long-term goals.

Recommended Mutual Fund Categories
Equity Mutual Funds
Allocate a significant portion of your investment towards equity mutual funds for long-term wealth accumulation, considering the growth potential of equities over time.

Debt Mutual Funds
Include debt mutual funds in your portfolio for stability and capital preservation, especially for short to medium-term goals like the plot purchase.

Hybrid Mutual Funds
Explore hybrid mutual funds, which offer a balanced mix of equity and debt exposure, suitable for investors seeking moderate risk with potentially higher returns.

Final Thoughts
Regular Portfolio Review
Periodically review your mutual fund portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance, making adjustments as necessary.

Professional Guidance
Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor your mutual fund investment strategy according to your unique financial circumstances and objectives.

By strategically allocating your investments across equity, debt, and hybrid mutual funds, you can work towards achieving your financial goals efficiently.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2801 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

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Good morning sir. I am investing in SBI midcap, small cap and health care opportunities fund at the rate of Rs 10000 per month respectively and Rs 5000/- each in ICICI equity funds. Kindly suggest whether to contiue or to switch to other
Ans: It's great to see your proactive approach towards investing. Let's assess your current mutual fund investments and explore whether any adjustments are needed.

Reviewing Current Investments
Diversification Strategy
Your investment strategy reflects a diversified approach by investing in midcap, small cap, healthcare, and equity funds.

Performance Analysis
Evaluate the performance of your current funds against relevant benchmarks to gauge their effectiveness in meeting your financial goals.

Considerations for Continuation or Switching
Fund Performance
Assess the historical performance of each fund to determine if they consistently outperform their benchmarks.

Risk Appetite
Consider your risk tolerance and ensure your investment choices align with your risk appetite and financial goals.

Potential Action Steps
Consultation with a Certified Financial Planner
Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to review your investment portfolio comprehensively and ensure it aligns with your financial objectives.

Periodic Portfolio Review
Regularly review your investment portfolio to stay informed about market trends and make necessary adjustments based on changing economic conditions.

Final Recommendation
Stay Informed
Stay updated on market developments and seek professional advice when considering changes to your investment strategy.

By regularly reviewing your mutual fund portfolio and consulting with a Certified Financial Planner, you can make informed decisions to optimize your investments and work towards your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...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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