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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 13, 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
Pravin Question by Pravin on Jun 11, 2024Hindi
Money

I am NRI with salary of 1cr per annum, having savings of 4.5 cr out of which 1 cr are invested in alternate investment plan IIFL Series 10 which will be matured by 2026, i have SIP of 1 lacks per month in 12 different funds, 1 cr in stock market in dfferent stocks, 1 cr fund is banks at interest of 6.75 in indusind and 4% in Axis savings as emergency fund and around 150000 USD in my overseas account. I am looking for a monthly income of 8 to 10 lacs after 4 years.

Ans: As an NRI with a substantial annual salary of Rs. 1 crore, your financial base is robust. Your savings of Rs. 4.5 crores are well-diversified. This includes Rs. 1 crore in an alternative investment plan, Rs. 1 lakh per month in SIPs across 12 different funds, Rs. 1 crore in various stocks, and Rs. 1 crore in emergency funds in banks. Additionally, you have USD 150,000 in your overseas account. This diversification is commendable and positions you well for future financial security.

Alternative Investment Plan
Your investment in IIFL Series 10, maturing in 2026, demonstrates foresight. Alternative investments often offer higher returns and diversify your portfolio beyond traditional assets. However, they can also carry higher risk. It's crucial to monitor the performance and be ready to reallocate funds if necessary.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
Your commitment to investing Rs. 1 lakh per month in 12 different funds shows a disciplined approach. SIPs help in averaging out market volatility and building a substantial corpus over time. However, investing in too many funds can lead to over-diversification, diluting potential returns. It's better to consolidate into fewer, well-performing funds for more focused growth.

Stock Market Investments
Investing Rs. 1 crore in various stocks indicates a significant exposure to equity. Stocks can provide high returns, but they also come with higher risk. Regular review and rebalancing based on market conditions and individual stock performance are essential. Diversifying across sectors can mitigate risks associated with market volatility.

Emergency Fund
Maintaining Rs. 1 crore in emergency funds shows prudent financial planning. An interest rate of 6.75% in IndusInd Bank is relatively good, while 4% in Axis savings is standard. Consider parking a portion of this emergency fund in liquid funds or short-term debt funds for potentially better returns while maintaining liquidity.

Overseas Account
Having USD 150,000 in your overseas account adds to your diversification. This can serve as a hedge against currency risk and provide financial flexibility. However, keep an eye on the currency exchange rates and potential opportunities for better returns on these funds.

Goal: Monthly Income of Rs. 8-10 Lakhs
To achieve a monthly income of Rs. 8-10 lakhs in four years, you need a well-structured plan. Here's a detailed approach:

Review and Rebalance Portfolio
Assess the performance of your current investments. Consolidate underperforming SIPs into high-performing ones. This ensures your money works harder for you. Actively managed funds can potentially offer better returns compared to index funds. A Certified Financial Planner can help you select funds with a proven track record and consistent performance.

Focus on Growth and Income Funds
Invest in a mix of growth and income funds. Growth funds aim for capital appreciation, while income funds provide regular payouts. This balance helps in achieving your goal of a steady monthly income. Look for funds with a history of high dividends and stable NAV growth.

Realign Stock Portfolio
Diversify your stock portfolio across different sectors to mitigate risks. Focus on blue-chip stocks with a history of paying dividends. These stocks tend to be more stable and can provide regular income. Consider reallocating funds from underperforming stocks to those with better growth potential.

Debt Funds and Bonds
Incorporate high-quality debt funds and bonds into your portfolio. They offer steady returns and are less volatile than equities. Consider investing in corporate bonds with high credit ratings. These can provide a regular income stream and add stability to your portfolio.

Dividend Yield Funds
Investing in dividend yield funds can be a good strategy. These funds invest in companies that pay high dividends. They provide a regular income and can contribute to achieving your monthly income goal. Look for funds with a history of consistent dividend payments.

Overseas Investments
Utilize your overseas funds for better returns. Explore international mutual funds or ETFs that invest in global markets. These can provide diversification and potential for higher returns. Be aware of the tax implications and seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid Index Funds
Index funds are passively managed and track a market index. They offer lower expense ratios but may not provide the best returns. Actively managed funds, although with higher fees, can outperform the market. They have fund managers who make informed investment decisions based on market conditions. This can lead to better returns and help you achieve your financial goals faster.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem attractive due to lower expense ratios. However, they require more time and effort to manage. Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner credential offers several benefits. They provide expert advice, regular portfolio reviews, and help in selecting the right funds. This ensures your investments are aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Insurance and Financial Planning
While insurance is not mentioned in your current portfolio, it is essential for comprehensive financial planning. Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage. This protects your family from financial strain in case of unforeseen events. Consider term insurance for higher coverage at lower premiums.

Tax Efficiency
Optimize your investments for tax efficiency. Utilize tax-saving instruments under Section 80C, such as ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme). These not only provide tax benefits but also offer potential for higher returns. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized tax planning strategies.

Retirement Planning
Although your immediate goal is to achieve a monthly income, it's important to consider long-term retirement planning. Ensure your investments align with your retirement goals. Diversify across various asset classes to build a robust retirement corpus. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio based on changing market conditions and personal circumstances.

Regular Monitoring and Review
Achieving financial goals requires regular monitoring and review of your portfolio. Market conditions change, and so do your financial needs. Conduct quarterly reviews with your Certified Financial Planner. This ensures your investments remain on track and adjustments are made as necessary.

Final Insights
Your current financial situation is strong, with a diversified portfolio and a clear income goal. By consolidating your SIPs, focusing on high-performing funds, and diversifying your stock investments, you can enhance returns. Incorporating debt funds, dividend yield funds, and overseas investments adds stability and potential for growth. Avoiding index and direct funds ensures better management and higher returns. Comprehensive financial planning, including insurance and tax efficiency, is crucial. Regular monitoring and adjustments will keep your portfolio aligned with your goals.

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 Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 19, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I am 34 earning 2 lacs per month. I have been investing in Mutual funds from past 6 years and from pass 2- 2.5 years I have reached and investing 1.6 lacs per month in Mutual funds. In next 10 years I want to have an automatic income of about 3 lacs per month. Can you advise how is it possible. I am investing in Mirae emerging asset, DSP, axis long term quity, parag pariek flexi cap, HDFC mic cap, HDFC Top 100, Nippon, SBi (small cap) Please advise the mutual fund I should invest and the amount to get an income of 3 lacs per month in next 7-10 years Also, i have bought a house for 1.5 cr. Have paid about 25 lacs from my investments already. Planning to pay about 70% as down payment in the next 3-4 years and 30 % loan. Is that a wise decision. Please advise
Ans: To achieve an automatic income of 3 lakhs per month in the next 7-10 years, you'll need to focus on building a substantial corpus through your investments. Given your current investment capacity and time horizon, you may consider allocating a significant portion of your monthly investments to high-growth potential mutual funds, particularly those with exposure to mid-cap and small-cap segments.

Ensure your investment portfolio remains well-diversified across different asset classes and investment styles to manage risk effectively. Regularly review your portfolio's performance and adjust your investment strategy as needed to stay on track towards your income goal.

Regarding your decision to pay 70% down payment for your house purchase, it can be a wise move if it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. By making a higher down payment, you can potentially reduce your loan burden and overall interest costs. However, it's essential to ensure that you maintain an adequate emergency fund and continue investing for your long-term financial goals alongside your home purchase plans.

Consider consulting with a financial advisor to develop a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your specific needs and objectives. They can provide personalized advice and help you navigate through your investment and home purchase decisions effectively.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 05, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 05, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I am 34 earning 3 lacs per month. I have been investing in Mutual funds from past 7 years and from pass 3 years I have reached and investing 1.6 lacs per month in Mutual funds. In next 10 years I want to have an automatic income of about 3 lacs per month. Can you advise how is it possible. I am investing in Mirae emerging asset, DSP, axis long term quity, parag pariek flexi cap, HDFC mic cap, HDFC Top 100, Nippon, SBi (small cap) Please advise the mutual fund I should invest and the amount to get an income of 3 lacs per month in next 7-10 years Also, i have bought a house for 1.5 cr. Have paid about 25 lacs from my investments already. Planning to pay about 70% as down payment in the next 3-4 years and 30 % loan. Is that a wise decision. Please advise
Ans: It's impressive to see your commitment to investing and your ambitious goal of generating a passive income of 3 lakhs per month in the next decade. With your current investment capacity and timeframe, achieving this target is feasible, but it requires careful planning and strategic allocation of your resources.

Given your investment horizon, you might consider a combination of growth-oriented and income-oriented mutual funds. Growth-oriented funds can provide capital appreciation over time, while income-oriented funds can generate regular dividends or interest payments.

To meet your income goal, you'll need to accumulate a significant corpus that can generate a sustainable monthly income. Based on your current investments and savings rate, you may need to increase your monthly investment amount and consider higher-returning investment avenues.

Regarding your mutual fund portfolio, it's essential to ensure diversification and align your investments with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor your portfolio to meet your income objectives while managing risk effectively.

Regarding your property investment, using a combination of your savings and a home loan for the down payment seems like a prudent approach, as it reduces your debt burden while leveraging your existing assets. However, assess your cash flow and future income prospects to ensure you can comfortably manage the loan obligations.

Overall, achieving your financial goals requires a holistic approach, considering both investment strategies and asset allocation. Stay focused on your long-term objectives, and seek professional guidance to optimize your investment plan and real estate decisions. With discipline and careful planning, you can work towards building a robust financial future.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi, Im male 52 years, an NRI and want to retire in about a years time. i have a flat which is worth 75lacs in India, around 50 lacs in FD, investment in equities 16 lacs and a mutual fund of around 10 lacs with a monthly sip of 17,000. i have about 30 lacs investment with relatives with some interest. around 35 lacs would be end of service benefits. have two children who are doing their higher studies in India, a daughter and a son 18 & 20 respectively. appreciate your advise the best monthly income that i should have with my savings. i have no other liabilities or loan.
Ans: You are a 52-year-old NRI planning to retire in a year. You have built a diversified portfolio and financial assets. Your assets consist of:

A flat worth Rs 75 lakhs in India.

Fixed Deposits (FDs) worth Rs 50 lakhs.

Investment in equities valued at Rs 16 lakhs.

Mutual fund investments worth Rs 10 lakhs, with a SIP of Rs 17,000 per month.

Investment of Rs 30 lakhs with relatives, earning some interest.

You expect Rs 35 lakhs as end-of-service benefits.

You also have two children pursuing higher studies in India, a daughter (18 years) and a son (20 years). You have no other loans or liabilities, which is a great position to be in before retirement.

Assessing Your Retirement Income Needs
Since you are looking to retire soon, it's essential to plan for a stable and sustainable monthly income. You’ll need to ensure that your savings can support your post-retirement lifestyle, children's education, and other future expenses.

Given that you have Rs 136 lakhs (including FDs, mutual funds, equity, end-of-service benefits, and the investment with relatives), your retirement income should be carefully structured to last for the rest of your life.

Let’s break this down.

Suggested Allocation of Funds for Optimal Monthly Income
You should aim to achieve a balance between safety and growth, with a significant focus on capital preservation. Here’s how you can structure your savings:

1. Fixed Deposits (FDs) and Debt Instruments: Rs 60-70 Lakhs
Purpose: Safety and liquidity.

Allocation: FDs already make up Rs 50 lakhs of your portfolio. You may want to add Rs 10-20 lakhs from the end-of-service benefits to create a stable and low-risk base.

Returns: These will give you a predictable monthly income through interest payments.

Though FDs provide safety, the returns are not very high and are taxable as per your income slab. Therefore, having a mix of other low-risk instruments like short-term debt mutual funds or senior citizen saving schemes (SCSS) can further diversify your income sources.

Debt mutual funds, while taxable, offer more flexibility and better returns than FDs over time. This portion of your portfolio can be used for short-term needs and emergencies.

2. Equity Investments: Rs 16 Lakhs
Purpose: Growth and inflation protection.

Allocation: You already have Rs 16 lakhs in equity. Since equity markets are volatile, this portion of your portfolio should be left untouched for at least the next 8-10 years. It will help your overall corpus grow and provide inflation-adjusted returns.

Returns: Though volatile, equities tend to outperform other asset classes over the long term.

Keeping your equity investments intact is crucial to ensure your portfolio does not lose its value due to inflation over the long run.

3. Mutual Funds (MFs): Rs 10 Lakhs + Rs 17,000 Monthly SIP
Purpose: Balanced risk and return for the medium-term.
Your mutual fund investment of Rs 10 lakhs and monthly SIP of Rs 17,000 can be allocated to Balanced Advantage Funds (BAFs) or Hybrid Mutual Funds. These funds balance between equity and debt, offering moderate returns with reduced risk compared to pure equity funds. This will allow you to benefit from equity growth without taking excessive risk.

Since equity mutual funds with long-term capital gains (LTCG) over Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%, and short-term capital gains (STCG) at 20%, it is better to hold these funds long-term to avoid higher taxes. You can periodically withdraw from these funds to meet your monthly needs while keeping the bulk of your capital invested.

4. Investment with Relatives: Rs 30 Lakhs
Purpose: Additional income.

Returns: This investment earns some interest, which can serve as an extra source of income. However, relying on informal arrangements may not be as secure. You might consider reallocating this Rs 30 lakhs to a safer option, like a debt mutual fund or senior citizen savings scheme (SCSS), to ensure more stability.

This would diversify your income sources and offer better security than an informal investment.

5. End of Service Benefits: Rs 35 Lakhs
Purpose: Additional stability.

Allocation: Consider allocating Rs 20-25 lakhs of this amount into low-risk, income-generating instruments such as SCSS, which offer regular payouts and are government-backed. This can serve as a steady and guaranteed income stream for your retirement.

The rest of this money (Rs 10-15 lakhs) could be added to your mutual fund portfolio to allow for some growth potential while still maintaining a low-to-moderate risk profile.

Creating a Monthly Income Plan
Based on your assets, you could structure a monthly income plan from multiple sources:

FDs and Debt Mutual Funds: This would be your primary source of income. You could set up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from debt mutual funds, which allows you to withdraw a fixed amount monthly, providing regular income while keeping your principal relatively safe.

Mutual Fund SWP: You could also set up an SWP from your balanced advantage or hybrid funds. Since these funds balance both equity and debt, they offer stable returns with a moderate risk level.

Investment with Relatives: If you continue this arrangement, it can serve as an additional income stream. However, ensure that it’s secure and reliable.

Projecting Monthly Income from These Sources
To estimate the monthly income you can generate, here is a rough breakdown:

FDs and Debt Funds: These can generate interest or withdrawal income in the range of Rs 25,000-30,000 per month.

Mutual Fund SWP: From Rs 10 lakhs, you could withdraw Rs 10,000-15,000 per month without depleting your corpus significantly.

Investment with Relatives: Depending on the interest rate, this could give you an additional Rs 5,000-10,000 monthly.

End-of-Service Benefits: Once allocated, this could provide another Rs 10,000-15,000 per month, depending on the instruments chosen.

In total, your monthly income could range from Rs 50,000 to Rs 70,000, which can be adjusted for inflation over time. You can also choose to withdraw larger sums for one-off expenses if needed.

Managing Future Expenses for Your Children
Your children are in their higher studies, so it’s essential to have funds set aside for their education or other needs. You could create a separate education fund using part of your end-of-service benefits or other savings. This could be invested in a debt mutual fund or balanced fund to grow safely until they need it.
Final Insights
You are well-positioned for retirement with a balanced portfolio across various asset classes. However, some reallocation and restructuring can help you secure a steady income stream while keeping your capital safe.

Focus on creating a stable monthly income from FDs, debt mutual funds, and SWPs.

Retain equity and mutual fund investments for long-term growth and inflation protection.

Consider reallocating informal investments for more security.

Plan ahead for your children’s education needs and other future expenses.

Stay mindful of the tax implications of your income and investments as an NRI.

With these strategies, you can comfortably enjoy your retirement without financial stress.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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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