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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 24, 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
Maulin Question by Maulin on Mar 28, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I plan to Invest Rs. 5000/- per month. Pls advice when I can invest (NPS, Shares, MF, Gold) ?

Ans: It's commendable that you're considering investing. With Rs. 5000/- per month, you have several options to consider. Each investment avenue you mentioned has its own benefits and risks, so let's break them down:

NPS (National Pension System): This is a retirement-focused investment with tax benefits under Section 80C. It offers a mix of equity, corporate bonds, and government securities, providing a balance between growth and stability. However, withdrawals are restricted until retirement.
Shares: Investing directly in stocks offers potential for high returns but comes with higher risks. It requires research and monitoring. With a long-term perspective and by diversifying across sectors, you can aim for better returns.
Mutual Funds (MF): MFs offer diversification and professional management. You can choose from equity, debt, or hybrid funds based on your risk appetite and investment horizon. SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) is a good way to invest regularly.
Gold: Gold acts as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties. You can invest in physical gold, gold ETFs, or sovereign gold bonds. It's a good diversifier but doesn't offer regular income.
Considering your investment horizon and risk tolerance, a diversified approach combining MFs and NPS might be a balanced strategy. You could allocate a portion to NPS for retirement and the rest to MFs across different categories for growth. As you gain more knowledge and confidence, you could gradually venture into direct stock investments or gold. Always remember to review and adjust your portfolio periodically to stay aligned with your financial goals.
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  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 04, 2024

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Hello sir I am 34 years old I want to invest 50000 per month for my retirement I want to invest a sum of Rs.
Ans: Investing 50,000 per month for your retirement is a prudent decision. Here's a general approach you can consider:

Determine Investment Horizon: Since retirement is typically a long-term goal, it's essential to identify your investment horizon. Given your age of 34, you may have a retirement horizon of around 25-30 years.

Asset Allocation: Based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon, consider allocating your investment across different asset classes such as equity, debt, and potentially other assets like real estate or gold. A common rule of thumb for long-term goals like retirement is to have a higher allocation to equity for growth potential.

Equity Investments: Allocate a significant portion of your investment towards equity mutual funds. You can diversify across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds to spread the risk and maximize growth potential. Consider both diversified equity funds and sector-specific funds based on your risk appetite.

Debt Investments: Allocate a portion of your investment towards debt mutual funds for stability and regular income. Debt funds can provide capital preservation and generate steady returns over the long term. Consider options like dynamic bond funds, short-term funds, or gilt funds based on your risk profile.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Consider investing through SIPs to benefit from rupee cost averaging and mitigate the impact of market volatility. SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly in mutual funds, regardless of market conditions.

Review and Rebalance: Regularly review your investment portfolio and rebalance it if needed to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Rebalancing involves adjusting your asset allocation based on market movements and changes in your investment objectives.

Consult a Financial Advisor: Consider seeking guidance from a certified financial advisor who can help you create a personalized investment plan tailored to your financial goals, risk profile, and investment horizon.

Remember, investing for retirement is a long-term commitment, and consistency, discipline, and patience are key to achieving your financial objectives.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 25, 2024Hindi
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I am 24 yrs old currently earning roughly around 1.09 lakhs per month, I have around 1.4 lakhs in PF, 1 lakh in each stocks and mutual funds. Currently have SIP of 14k ( 2k in Parag Parikh flexi cap, 2k in Groww nifty total market, 2k in icici prudential nifty 50 index, 2k in dsp mukti assert allocation , 2k in sbi contra, 2k in Tata nifty mid cap 150 momentum 50 index, 2k in HDFC mid cap opportunity). I have a HL running with 16k emi and a gold scheme monthly deposit of 20k. Also an RD of 20k for savings and emergency funds FD of 2 lakhs. My monthly expenses are around 10-15k. Should I invest in NPS or not as I am not comfortable with blocking period . Also any suggestions related to MF or investment are welcomed.
Ans: It's impressive to see your proactive approach to financial planning at such a young age. With a healthy income and diverse investments, you're laying a strong foundation for your future. Your current SIPs reflect a balanced approach, diversifying across various market segments.

Regarding NPS, it's understandable that the lock-in period may not align with your comfort level. While NPS offers tax benefits and retirement planning advantages, it's essential to choose investment avenues that resonate with your financial goals and preferences.

Considering your financial situation and goals, a Certified Financial Planner can help streamline your investments and align them more closely with your aspirations. They can guide you on optimizing your portfolio, considering factors like risk tolerance, time horizon, and liquidity needs.

Remember, financial planning is a dynamic process. As you progress in your career and life, your goals and priorities may evolve. Regular reviews and adjustments to your investment strategy can help you stay on track. Keep up the good work, and best wishes for your financial journey ahead!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 04, 2024

Money
Sir, After closing my home loan, I have free amount of 70kpm which I am looking to invest with low risk. I have planned in the below manner: 10 kpm - in gold etf or gold mf (which is better) 5 kpm - in NPS vatsalya scheme (for elder son 15y age) 5 kpm - in NPS vatsalya scheme (for younger son 10y age) 20 kpm - in RD for next year school fees of both sons 15 kpm - in RD for family vacation 15 kpm - in MF SIP. PLease suggest. Will NPS be a good option for our sons future? DO you suggest any other option? I am already investing 40kpm in SIP MF, 10kpm in Term plan of SA 1.5 CR. 20 kpm in conventional Insurance plans. 40 kpm in my PF & PPF. 10kpm in my NPS
Ans: Your current investment strategy is well thought out, considering various goals for your family’s future. With a monthly surplus of Rs 70,000 after closing your home loan, you’ve allocated this amount towards multiple financial goals. Let's assess each component of your plan and evaluate its effectiveness for low-risk investments while considering your children's future.

Gold ETF vs. Gold Mutual Fund
Gold ETF: Gold ETFs are cost-efficient and directly linked to the price of gold. They are traded like stocks and have lower expense ratios compared to gold mutual funds. They provide liquidity and allow you to hold physical gold in electronic form without the storage hassle.

Gold Mutual Fund: Gold mutual funds invest in gold ETFs. These funds are more accessible, especially for investors who don’t have a demat account. However, they come with a higher expense ratio compared to ETFs.

For long-term investment in gold, Gold ETFs would be a better choice because of lower costs and direct linkage to gold prices. However, both options are relatively safe for gold investments.

NPS Vatsalya Scheme for Children
You’ve planned to invest Rs 5,000 per month for each of your sons in the NPS Vatsalya scheme. Let’s analyse whether NPS is the best option for your children's future.

NPS Benefits: NPS is a low-cost, government-backed pension scheme. While it offers tax benefits, it is primarily a retirement planning tool. Since NPS locks in the corpus until retirement age, it may not be the most ideal choice for children's education or other financial needs before they turn 60.
For your sons’ future, it might be better to consider long-term equity mutual funds or child plans that provide flexibility and potential higher returns for educational needs or other significant life events. Mutual funds allow partial withdrawals and can align better with milestones like higher education or marriage.

Suggested Alternatives:

Consider equity mutual funds with a long-term horizon, which provide better growth potential for your sons' future goals.
You could also explore child education plans that offer benefits aligned with specific milestones like higher education.
Recurring Deposits (RDs) for Short-Term Goals
20K for School Fees: This allocation is prudent. RDs are safe, and since the goal is short-term, using an RD for your children’s school fees next year is a sound strategy. It ensures safety and liquidity.

15K for Family Vacation: Saving in an RD for your family vacation is a good idea for the short term. It keeps your savings safe and ensures you can use the funds when needed without risking market fluctuations.

Assessment:

For both these short-term goals, RDs are a low-risk and appropriate choice.
Mutual Fund SIPs
15K for Mutual Fund SIP: Allocating Rs 15,000 towards equity mutual funds via SIPs is a smart move for wealth creation. Equity mutual funds are suitable for long-term goals, and SIPs bring discipline and rupee cost averaging.
Since you are already investing Rs 40,000 per month in mutual funds, increasing this by Rs 15,000 strengthens your portfolio and ensures long-term growth potential. This balance between equity investments and safer options like RDs and gold is a well-rounded strategy.

Insight:

Diversifying your SIPs across large-cap, mid-cap, and hybrid funds can help manage risk and improve returns over time.
Ensure you are invested in actively managed mutual funds instead of index funds to maximize your returns, as actively managed funds have the potential to outperform in different market conditions.
Evaluating Your Current Investments
Rs 40K in SIPs: Your existing investment of Rs 40,000 per month in mutual funds shows a good focus on long-term growth. Since mutual funds offer better growth potential than traditional savings, it is a good strategy to balance risk and reward.

Rs 10K in Term Plan (SA 1.5 CR): A term plan is an essential part of any financial plan, especially for a family. Your term plan with a sum assured of Rs 1.5 crore is adequate to provide for your family in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Continue with this policy as it serves to protect your family financially.

Rs 20K in Conventional Insurance Plans: Conventional insurance plans often provide lower returns compared to mutual funds or other investment options. They usually mix insurance and investment, which results in sub-optimal returns. You may want to reconsider whether these plans align with your long-term goals. Instead, pure term insurance for protection, combined with mutual funds for growth, usually provides better results.

Rs 40K in PF & PPF: Your existing contributions to PF and PPF are ideal for low-risk, long-term saving. These schemes offer safe, tax-efficient growth. Keep contributing as they ensure stability in your portfolio.

Rs 10K in NPS: Investing in NPS for your own retirement is a sound decision, as it provides tax benefits and helps you build a retirement corpus with a mix of equity and debt exposure.

Suggestions for Improvement
NPS for Children: As discussed, NPS is not the best fit for your sons’ future. For their education and other life goals, consider investing in mutual funds or dedicated child plans instead.

Reevaluate Conventional Insurance Plans: These plans often come with low returns and high costs. If possible, shift the investment component to equity mutual funds or SIPs. You already have sufficient life insurance coverage through your term plan.

Increase SIP Contributions Gradually: Over time, as your income grows, try to increase your SIP contributions. Even a 10-15% increase every year can significantly boost your wealth over the long term, thanks to the power of compounding.

Ensure Proper Allocation for Retirement: While you are focusing on your children’s future and short-term goals, ensure that your retirement planning is not compromised. Continue contributions to PF, PPF, and NPS while allocating enough towards equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

Final Insights
Your approach is a solid mix of safety and growth, reflecting thoughtful planning. The inclusion of RDs for short-term goals, gold for diversification, and mutual funds for long-term wealth creation provides balance. However, reconsidering NPS for your children and conventional insurance plans can optimize your strategy further.

Your commitment to Rs 40K in PF, PPF, and Rs 10K in your NPS ensures long-term stability. The additional Rs 70K per month is wisely planned for both low-risk and growth-oriented goals. Keep reviewing your strategy periodically to adjust to any changes in income, goals, or market conditions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Latest Questions
Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |183 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 19, 2024Hindi
Career
Hello sir I am mbbs graduated from russia in 2020,n passed with my fmge exam in india in 2021, I want to ask if i want to practice medicine or work as doctor in uk ? Is it necessary for me to pass plab exam exam? Or if i get sponsorship from any uk i will be able to work there and simultaneously i will give plab exam?? Please guide me i m so confused?
Ans: Hi, I understand that you pursued a medicine course in Russia (a non-European country) and, since you are from India, you have completed the FMGE. Now you want to practice or work in the UK as a doctor?

Based on your question, you are eligible to practice in India after completing your internship (which you haven't mentioned, but I assume you have completed it). The FMGE is essentially a licensure exam for Indian students who have completed their medical studies abroad, so you are eligible to practice in India only.

If you want to practice medicine in the UK, you need to complete the PLAB test, as you are from outside the UK/Switzerland/European countries (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland).

You also inquired about sponsorship. Here is the information related to sponsorship for practicing medicine in the UK.
(Extracted from general medical council, uk org. )Applying for registration using sponsorship
If you apply through sponsorship, you will have to satisfy the sponsor that you possess the knowledge, skills and experience required for practising as a fully registered medical practitioner in the UK. Each sponsor has their own scheme which we have pre-approved. If you can satisfy the requirements of their scheme, they will issue you with a Sponsorship Registration Certificate (SRC) which you will need for your application with us. Please ensure this is a Sponsorship Registration Certificate for GMC registration, as we can’t accept UK visa sponsorship certificates for your application for registration.
Please note that a core part of all sponsors' criteria is that a doctor applying for an offer of sponsorship must have been engaged in medical practice for three out of the last five years including the most recent 12 months. If you cannot meet these minimum criteria, it is unlikely that you'll be able to supply sufficient evidence to support your application for sponsorship.
Doctors applying through sponsorship are required to demonstrate their English language skills by achieving our current minimum scores in the academic version of the IELTS test or the OET (medicine version).
• Alder Hey International Fellowship Scheme (Anaesthetics)
• Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board - BCUHB IMG Sponsorship Scheme
• BAPIO Training Academy Ltd – BTA International Fellowship Scheme
• BAPIO Training Academy Ltd – International Training Programme for Postgraduate Doctors
• BAPIO Training Academy Ltd - BTA International Fellowship Scheme – Internal Medicine with interest in Oncology with MSc in Oncology
• Barking Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust - BHRUT Sponsorship Scheme for Overseas Doctors in Clinical Radiology
• Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry (Birmingham)
• Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital – Birmingham Women’s and Children’s International Medical Graduate sponsorship scheme
• Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Cambridge IVF, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust – IVF Senior Clinical Fellowship Scheme
• Cambridge University Hospital – Senior Clinical Fellowship Scheme in Intensive Care Medicine/Anaesthesia
• Canterbury Christ Church University
• Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Psychiatry Fellowship Programme
• Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry
• Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
• East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust - Clinical Fellowship in Urology or Ophthalmology
• East Lancashire Hospital NHS Trust - Specialist Clinical Fellowship in Pain Management
• East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT) – ELFT Advanced International Fellowship in Psychiatry
• East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust – ICENI Centre Fellowships Programme
• Edge Hill University and Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust – International Training Fellowships in MCh programmes
• ENT UK – Royal College of Surgeons
• Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust – EPUT Advanced Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust – International Fellowship in Regional Anaesthesia combined with MSc in Principles of Regional Anaesthesia at the University of East Anglia
• Great Ormond Street Hospital International Fellowship Programme
• Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Critical Care
• Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust – International Clinical Fellowship Programme (ICFP)
• Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Obstetrics and Gynaecology
• Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Hospitals Foundation Trust – Oncology Specialty Training
• Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Hospitals Foundation Trust – Specialty Training in Anaesthetics
• Harefield Hospital, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust – Anaesthesia and Critical Care
• Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
• Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – International Fellows at Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
• Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust - Sponsored International Fellowship Scheme in Psychiatry
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – Emergency Medicine
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – Haematology
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – International Anaesthesia Trainees
• Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust – Intensive Care Medicine
• Imperial College, London - Clinical Research
• King’s College Hospital NHS Trusts – International Critical Care Fellowship
• King’s College Hospital NHS Trusts – Paediatric Critical Care Fellowship
• Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust - Psychiatry specialty Fellowship Scheme
• Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust - Overseas Registrar Development and Recruitment (ORDER)
• Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – International Fellowship Programme
• Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust – International Medical Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry
• Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – CESR Fellowship in Psychiatry or Sponsored Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Lysholm Dept of Neuroradiology – National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCL
• Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust – International Fellowship Programme
• Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
• Ministry of Defence – International Military Clinical Fellowships
• Modality Partnership - Modality Primary Care International Fellowship Scheme
• NAViGO Health and Social Care CIC – International Medical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• NHS England, East of England - East of England International Office GMC Sponsorship
• NHS Fife – CESR Fellowship Programme in Psychiatry
• NHS Grampian – Psychiatry CESR Fellowship Programme
• NHS Grampian – Multi-specialty SAS Fellowship
• NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership (NWSSP) – All Wales International Medical Recruitment Programme
• Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) - Advanced Clinical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• North Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust (NLAG) Sponsorship Programme
• Northampton General Hospital – Clinical Fellowship in Regional Anaesthesia
• Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust - International Clinical Fellowship in Regional Anaesthesia, Vascular Anaesthesia, or Peri-operative Medicine
• Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – International Clinical Fellowship Scheme
• Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – International Clinical Fellowship Scheme (Psychiatry)
• Northern Care Alliance – NCA International Medical Fellowship Scheme
• Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Oxford Eye Hospital
• Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Oxford Intensive Care Medicine (OxICM) Sponsorship Scheme
• Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Oxford University Hospitals Sponsorship Scheme
• Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – The Oxford International Neonatal and Paediatric Fellowship Programme
• Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust - Sponsored International Fellowship Scheme in Psychiatry
• Royal College of Anaesthetists – Global Fellowship Scheme (Anaesthesia or ICM)
• Royal College of Anaesthetists – MTI Scheme
• Royal College of Emergency Medicine
• Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists – MTI Scheme
• Royal College of Ophthalmologists
• Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health – International Paediatric Sponsorship Scheme
• Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health – MTI Scheme
• Royal College of Pathologists
• Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
• Royal College of Surgeons of England
• Royal College of Physicians of London
• Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
• Royal College of Psychiatrists – MTI Scheme
• Royal College of Radiologists – Clinical Radiology
• Royal College of Radiologists – Clinical Oncology
• Royal College of Radiologists – RCR Specialty Training Sponsorship Scheme
• Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
• Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Trust
• Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – Senior Clinical Fellowship Programme in Anaesthesia and Critical Care
• Royal Wolverhampton Trust – Clinical Fellowship Programme
• Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust - Rotational Clinical Fellows in Paediatrics, Trauma and Orthopaedic International Fellows, and Subspeciality Fellows in Paediatrics
• Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust - International Medical Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Somerset NHS Foundation Trust – Somerset Overseas Doctors Sponsorship Scheme
• Somerset NHS Foundation Trust – Psychiatry Overseas Doctors Sponsorship Scheme
• South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust - GMC Multispecialty Sponsorship Scheme
• South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – International Fellowship in Psychiatry
• Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust – International Obstetrics and Gynaecology Training Programme
• St Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust – St Bartholomew’s Critical Care Fellowship
• St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – International Anaesthetics Fellowship Programme
• St George’s University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Dr Nirav Shah) – International Intensive Care Medicine Trainees
• St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – International Emergency Medicine Trainees
• Surrey and Borders Partnership (SABP) NHS Foundation Trust – International Psychiatric and Community Paediatrics Sponsorship Scheme
• Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust – International Psychiatric CESR or SAS Fellowship
• University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Department of Critical Care – Clinical Fellowship Critical Care and Perioperative Medicine
• University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust - International Training Fellowship Programme
• University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust - UHB LED Fellowship Programme
• University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust – Bristol Children's Hospital International Fellowship Scheme
• University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust - Department of General Internal Medicine at Weston General Hospital
• University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust
• University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust - Postgraduate Clinical Fellowship Programme
• University of Buckingham – Master of Medicine
• University of Buckingham – Master of Surgery
• University of Chester and Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust – International Training Fellows Psychiatry
• University of Hertfordshire – Professional Doctorate in General Internal Medicine (Clinical MD) Programme
KINDLY NOTE: If your sponsor is not on this list then you cannot apply using sponsorship.
If you have any further questions, please visit the GMC website for more information.

WISH YOU ALL THE VERY BEST.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 21, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, I follow your articles regularly and your detailed assessment is really awesome.I am 47yrs Male with wife, 20&18 years kids, elder one is in B.Tech and younger one is 12th. My wife is a home maker. Coming to financials. I have 4 houses including the one residing worth 10cr(total) and getting rental income of 70k per month, invested in stocks and MFs worth 60L, have foreign stocks of worth 1.7cr, accumulated pf around 1.3cr. I have farm lands worth 5cr. Have 1.2cr loan and salary of ~4L (net). current sips in equity 70k/month, have 5Cr term plan, health insurance for family 50L. How do I plan my retirement at 52-53years assuming 80 years life expectancy. Don't want to depend on kids and need regular income ~3-4L per month.
Ans: Asset Evaluation
Real Estate:
You own four houses worth Rs 10 crore, generating Rs 70,000 monthly rental income. This is a solid base for passive income. However, real estate can have fluctuating maintenance costs, tenant issues, and varying rental yields over time.

Stocks and Mutual Funds:
Your Rs 60 lakh investment in stocks and mutual funds is a commendable step. Active mutual funds offer professional fund management and can outperform index funds over time.

Foreign Stocks:
Your Rs 1.7 crore portfolio in foreign stocks adds geographical diversification. Monitor currency exchange fluctuations and global market trends.

Provident Fund (PF):
With Rs 1.3 crore in PF, this is a reliable retirement corpus. The fund provides fixed returns and tax benefits, adding stability.

Farm Lands:
Farm lands worth Rs 5 crore are an illiquid but valuable asset. They might not generate consistent income unless leased or developed.

Loans:
A loan liability of Rs 1.2 crore needs prioritised repayment. Focus on loans with higher interest rates first.

Insurance Coverage:
A Rs 5 crore term plan is robust. Your Rs 50 lakh health insurance is sufficient for unexpected medical emergencies.

Retirement Goals
You need Rs 3–4 lakh monthly for 27–28 years post-retirement.
The portfolio must generate steady, inflation-adjusted returns.
Action Plan for Retirement
Debt Management
Prepay High-Interest Loans:
Use a portion of your surplus income to prepay loans. This reduces interest outflow and increases your cash flow.

Avoid New Loans:
Focus on reducing existing liabilities instead of taking on new ones.

Portfolio Restructuring
Real Estate:
Retain essential properties. Sell underperforming or non-essential properties to reduce concentration in real estate. Invest proceeds in mutual funds or debt instruments for diversification.

Mutual Funds (MFs):
Increase SIPs in actively managed funds. They outperform direct funds due to guidance from Certified Financial Planners and MFDs. Regular funds offer better tracking and professional assistance.

Stocks:
Monitor direct equity investments closely. Consider reallocating underperforming stocks to mutual funds for better management.

Debt Instruments:
Invest in high-quality debt funds or fixed-income securities for stability. These instruments balance equity volatility and ensure steady returns.

SIP Strategy
Increase SIPs from Rs 70,000 to Rs 1 lakh/month.
Allocate 70% to equity funds for long-term growth.
Invest 30% in debt funds for stability and liquidity.
Emergency Fund
Maintain a 12-month expense reserve in liquid funds or fixed deposits.
This covers unexpected expenses without disturbing investments.
Income During Retirement
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
Use SWPs in mutual funds to generate regular income.
Withdraw 6–8% annually from your mutual fund portfolio for a steady income stream.
Rental Income Optimisation
Review property rents regularly.
Invest part of rental income in equity or debt mutual funds for compounding.
Dividend Stocks
Retain high-dividend-yield stocks for regular income.
Reinvest surplus dividends for long-term growth.
Tax Efficiency
Equity Funds Taxation:
Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt Funds Taxation:
Both short- and long-term gains are taxed per your income slab.

Real Estate Capital Gains:
Use exemptions under Sections 54 or 54F to save tax on property sales.

Inflation Protection
Allocate 60–70% of your portfolio to equity investments.

Equity provides inflation-adjusted returns over time.

Debt funds and fixed instruments safeguard against equity market volatility.

Estate Planning
Draft a will to allocate assets transparently among family members.
Use nomination and joint ownership to avoid legal complications.
Consider a family trust for farm lands to avoid disputes.
Periodic Review
Review your financial plan every six months.
Adjust investments based on market conditions, goals, and needs.
Consult a Certified Financial Planner regularly for updates.
Finally
A well-diversified portfolio ensures financial independence post-retirement. Focus on debt repayment, portfolio balance, and tax-efficient withdrawals. Your assets can comfortably generate Rs 3–4 lakh monthly income, adjusted for inflation.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |444 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 21, 2024

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Relationship
I am the eldest sibling in our families and aged 51. Normally, whenever anyone in the family has a problem - financial, mental, psychological, issue with people or anything else, they come up to discuss with me and share. Well, many would say I am lucky as people look up to me when they are in any kind of a problem. But that is not the case. Sadly no one is around with whom I can discuss or even think to share my issues, my problems. I do not have any friends. Sadly, yes, that is a fact and at my age, I dont expect that here we have a culture where we can get to making friends, at least the kind of friends with whom you can confide, share your feelings, problems. I tried and failed. Maybe because I am introvert or maybe I am too cautious. To make it more complicated, I dont work in the regular kind of job. I am a lone person who works as a freelance from home. This limits my outreach when it comes to interacting with real people. I have clients, business contacts, but I cannot get personal with them. It will never be a good choice. My wife is busy with her job + we do not have any relation beyond the daily matters related to household and it has been more than 10 years now that we live this way. Tried to sort out things with her but she just does not have time and interest (after all who wants to add on to tensions, stress). My daughter is after all my daughter - I cannot share these with her, and definitely at 10 she is too young to be one to discuss such stuff. I am not sure how far this issue can be fixed but I am hopeful to find some path here.
Ans: Dear Kevin,
Starting small can be helpful. Consider connecting with people through shared interests or hobbies, either online or in person, where the pressure to immediately open up is minimal. Online communities, local meetups, or volunteer activities can create low-stakes opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. The goal isn’t to instantly find someone to confide in but to slowly build a sense of belonging and companionship.

Your relationship with your wife appears to be another significant source of emotional distance. While her lack of interest in deep conversations may seem like a barrier, it’s worth exploring other ways to reconnect—perhaps by spending time together in shared activities or revisiting moments that once brought you closer. Sometimes, relationships stuck in routines benefit from new experiences or even professional counseling to navigate the underlying dynamics.

Regarding your daughter, while it’s clear she cannot shoulder your emotional burdens, she can still be a source of joy and connection. Investing time in activities with her can provide a sense of fulfillment and grounding that counters loneliness.

Above all, remember that reaching out for professional support, such as therapy, is not a sign of weakness but an act of self-care. A therapist can provide a safe space to express your feelings and help you develop strategies to foster deeper connections and manage emotional isolation.

You deserve to feel supported and connected, and even if the journey to finding that seems long, every step you take toward opening up or seeking out others is a move toward a more fulfilling and less lonely existence.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7290 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Top4 sips with 15k amount suggest me
Ans: Here’s an updated strategy for your Rs. 15,000 SIP allocation, replacing the sectoral/thematic fund with a small-cap fund for better long-term growth potential.

Suggested SIP Allocation (Rs. 15,000)
Large-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 4,000/month
Objective: Stability and steady growth by investing in India’s top 100 companies.
Why Choose: Provides consistent returns and low volatility in your portfolio.
Flexi-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 4,000/month
Objective: Diversified exposure across large, mid, and small-cap stocks.
Why Choose: Offers balanced risk and returns with flexibility during market cycles.
Mid-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 3,500/month
Objective: Tap into the growth potential of medium-sized companies.
Why Choose: Higher returns with manageable risk compared to small caps.
Small-Cap Fund

Allocation: Rs. 3,500/month
Objective: Focus on fast-growing small-cap companies.
Why Choose: High-growth potential over the long term, though with higher volatility.
Why Include Small-Cap Funds?
Long-Term Growth: Small-cap companies have immense potential to grow significantly over time.
Diversification: Adds exposure to an underrepresented segment, complementing large and mid-caps.
High Returns: Potential for higher returns compared to other categories, albeit with higher risk.
Key Considerations
Investment Horizon: Stay invested for at least 7-10 years to mitigate short-term volatility.
Active Fund Management: Avoid direct or index funds to leverage professional expertise.
Regular Monitoring: Review fund performance periodically with a Certified Financial Planner.
Tax Implications
Equity Funds:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh/year taxed at 12.5%.
STCG (held less than 1 year) taxed at 20%.
Final Insights
This updated allocation ensures a mix of stability, moderate risk, and high growth. With consistent SIPs and periodic reviews, you can achieve robust wealth creation over the long term. A Certified Financial Planner can assist in optimising your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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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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