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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Nov 23, 2023Hindi
Listen
Money

Sir I am planning for sip of ?2000 per month I will redeem @the age of 60years Now I am having 20 years Suggest me a best return mf

Ans: Investing in mutual funds through SIPs is a wise decision for long-term wealth creation. Since you have a 20-year investment horizon and plan to redeem the investments at the age of 60, you have a considerable time frame to benefit from compounding returns.

Considering your investment horizon and the goal of maximizing returns, you may consider investing in equity mutual funds. Equity funds have historically offered higher returns over the long term compared to debt funds, making them suitable for long-term wealth creation goals.

You can opt for diversified equity funds like large-cap, multi-cap, or flexi-cap funds, which invest in stocks across market capitalizations. These funds provide exposure to a diversified portfolio of stocks, reducing the risk associated with investing in individual stocks.

However, it's essential to remember that equity investments are subject to market risks, and the returns can fluctuate over the investment period. Therefore, it's crucial to stay invested for the long term and maintain a disciplined approach towards your SIP investments.

Before finalizing your investment decision, consider consulting with a certified financial planner who can assess your risk tolerance, investment objectives, and financial situation to provide personalized investment advice. Additionally, conduct thorough research and analysis of different mutual fund options to select the ones that align with your investment goals and risk profile.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I am. 42 years , i m reguler sip last 5 years rs. 3000/- per month i know after 60 years maturity amount
Ans: Investing in SIPs for the last 5 years is an excellent start towards building your retirement corpus. At 42 years old, you still have plenty of time to grow your investments and achieve your financial goals. Let's explore how you can continue on this path and ensure a comfortable retirement at 60.

Understanding Your Current Investment
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
You have been investing Rs. 3,000 per month in SIPs for the last 5 years. SIPs are a disciplined and effective way to invest in mutual funds.

Consistency: Regular investments help in averaging the cost of purchase.
Compounding: Long-term investments benefit from the power of compounding.
Projecting Future Value
Estimating Returns
Assuming an average annual return of 12%, we can estimate the future value of your SIPs. Over the next 18 years, your investments will continue to grow significantly.

Future Value: The maturity amount can be substantial if the investments are consistent.
Assumptions: This projection is based on an estimated annual return and historical market performance.
Strategies to Enhance Your Retirement Corpus
Increase SIP Amounts
Consider increasing your SIP contributions gradually. This will significantly enhance your retirement corpus over time.

Step-Up SIP: Increase the SIP amount by a fixed percentage annually.
Additional Investments: Invest any windfall gains, bonuses, or extra savings.
Diversification
Diversify your investments across different types of mutual funds to balance risk and return.

Equity Funds: Higher returns but with higher risk.
Debt Funds: Lower risk but with more stability.
Hybrid Funds: A mix of equity and debt for balanced growth.
Importance of Professional Guidance
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Consult a CFP to tailor your investment strategy according to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Expert Advice: CFPs provide personalized advice and help in optimizing your investment portfolio.
Goal Alignment: Ensure that your investment strategy is aligned with your retirement goals.
Risk Management and Regular Review
Portfolio Review
Regularly review your investment portfolio to ensure it is on track to meet your goals.

Rebalancing: Adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and life changes.
Performance Monitoring: Keep track of the performance of your investments and make necessary changes.
Avoid Over-Reliance on Specific Investment Types
Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds often outperform index funds due to professional management and market research.

Flexibility: Fund managers can adjust the portfolio based on market conditions.
Potential Returns: Higher potential returns compared to passive index funds.
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds simply track the market and do not offer active management benefits.

No Active Management: Lack of professional management can miss market opportunities.
Fixed Portfolio: The portfolio remains static, regardless of market conditions.
Supplementing Your SIPs
Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP)
Consider SWPs for regular income post-retirement. This will provide a steady income while keeping your principal invested.

Flexibility: Withdraw a fixed amount at regular intervals.
Tax Efficiency: More tax-efficient compared to lump sum withdrawals.
Avoid Annuities
Risks in Annuity Plans
Annuities provide fixed returns, which might not keep pace with inflation and have limited flexibility.

Low Returns: Fixed returns may not be sufficient in the long run.
Liquidity Issues: Annuities often lock in your money for a long period.
Conclusion
Your commitment to SIPs is commendable and sets a solid foundation for your retirement planning. By increasing your SIP contributions, diversifying your portfolio, and seeking professional guidance, you can achieve a comfortable retirement corpus. Regular reviews and adjustments will ensure that your investments remain aligned with your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
I am 61 year old and want to open SIP for Rs 15000/-per month which is best SIP ,return wise
Ans: Investment Strategy for a 61-Year-Old
At the age of 61, it is essential to balance your investment portfolio to achieve decent returns while minimizing risks.

SIP Investment Approach
Starting a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for Rs. 15,000 per month is a prudent choice. This approach helps in:

Rupee Cost Averaging: Reduces the impact of market volatility.
Discipline: Encourages regular investing and financial discipline.
Fund Selection Criteria
When selecting funds, consider:

Risk Tolerance: Lower risk tolerance due to age.
Investment Horizon: Likely to be shorter, necessitating stable returns.
Diversification: Balanced exposure across asset classes.
Recommended Funds
1. Balanced Advantage Funds:

Pros: These funds dynamically allocate between equity and debt based on market conditions, providing a balanced approach.
Examples: HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund, ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund.
2. Large Cap Funds:

Pros: Invest in well-established companies with stable performance, offering moderate growth with lower risk.
Examples: SBI Bluechip Fund, Axis Bluechip Fund.
3. Hybrid Funds:

Pros: Combine equity and debt in a fixed proportion, offering a blend of growth and stability.
Examples: HDFC Hybrid Equity Fund, Mirae Asset Hybrid Equity Fund.
4. Equity Savings Funds:

Pros: These funds invest in equity, debt, and arbitrage opportunities, aiming for steady returns with lower risk.
Examples: ICICI Prudential Equity Savings Fund, SBI Equity Savings Fund.
Professional Advice
Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide:

Tailored Advice: Based on your specific financial goals and risk profile.
Portfolio Management: Regular monitoring and rebalancing of your investments.
Benefits of Regular Funds through MFD with CFP Credential
Investing through Mutual Fund Distributors (MFD) with CFP credential offers:

Expert Guidance: On fund selection and risk management.
Comprehensive Planning: Ensuring your investments align with your retirement goals.
Final Insights
Starting a SIP of Rs. 15,000 per month in a well-chosen mix of funds can help achieve stable returns with managed risk.

Balanced Advantage Funds: For dynamic allocation.
Large Cap Funds: For stability and moderate growth.
Hybrid Funds: For a blend of equity and debt.
Equity Savings Funds: For steady returns with lower risk.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 12, 2025
Money
I am 38 years old and self-employed, earning an average of 1.8 to 2 lakhs per month. I have a home loan of 44 lakhs (EMI is 46,000, tenure 15 years). There is no other liabilities. My investments include 11 lakhs in mutual funds, 3 lakhs in fixed deposits, and 1.5 lakh in gold. Should I focus on prepaying the home loan given my irregular income, or keep my investments intact and continue with EMIs?
Ans: You are doing quite well, especially with your investments and controlled liabilities. Your financial discipline is truly appreciable.

You are 38, self-employed, with Rs.1.8 to 2 lakhs monthly income.
Your current home loan is Rs.44 lakhs with EMI of Rs.46,000 for 15 years.
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds, Rs.3 lakhs in FDs, and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.
Your income is irregular, but you have no other liabilities.

Let us now do a 360-degree evaluation of whether to prepay the loan or stay invested.

 

Step-by-Step Financial Assessment
1. Evaluate the Stability of Your Income First
You earn between Rs.1.8 to Rs.2 lakhs per month.

 

But income is irregular. That needs caution.

 

Loan EMI is Rs.46,000 — about 25% of your average income.

 

If income drops in any month, EMI pressure will increase.

 

So we must first ensure EMI is always affordable, without stress.

 

Hence, liquidity is more important for you right now than aggressive loan prepayment.

 

2. Evaluate Your Emergency Reserve
You have Rs.3 lakhs in FD and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.

 

That makes it Rs.4.5 lakhs total liquid safety.

 

Your EMI is Rs.46,000, and personal expenses will also be there.

 

Ideal emergency fund for you = 6 to 9 months of expenses + EMI.

 

That is around Rs.6 to Rs.8 lakhs minimum.

 

So current emergency fund is slightly lower than ideal.

 

Please don’t use this for loan prepayment now.

 

3. Assess the Role of Mutual Funds
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds. That’s a solid step.

Now let’s assess whether to redeem this and prepay loan.

 

Should You Redeem Mutual Funds to Prepay?
Mutual funds, over long term, give better post-tax return than loan savings.

 

Loan interest is 8% to 9%, whereas mutual funds can give 11–13% in long term.

 

Especially if funds are equity-oriented and held for 5+ years.

 

You will also get capital gains tax exemption on Rs.1.25 lakhs LTCG annually.

 

If you redeem funds, you lose growth potential and compounding.

 

That hurts long-term wealth building.

 

So, do not redeem the entire Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds.

 

4. Disadvantage of Early Loan Prepayment in Your Case
Prepaying early will reduce interest over time, yes.

 

But you may run into cash flow stress in slow months.

 

Once money is used to prepay, it cannot be taken back easily.

 

Liquidity once lost = flexibility lost.

 

Also, income tax benefit under Section 24(b) gets reduced if loan balance drops.

 

So it’s better to maintain balance between repayment and investment.

 

5. Best Strategy for You – A Balanced Approach
Let’s now craft the best plan for you.

 

Maintain Strong Liquidity First
Keep FD and gold untouched.

 

Increase emergency fund to at least Rs.6–Rs.7 lakhs.

 

For that, set aside extra Rs.2.5–Rs.3 lakhs from savings over time.

 

This makes your EMI safe even in low-income months.

 

Continue Your Mutual Fund SIPs Without Stopping
SIPs give long-term growth and beat loan interest in most cases.

 

Don’t stop mutual fund investments to prepay loan.

 

Stay invested. Let wealth compound.

 

Start Small and Periodic Prepayments
Don’t do bulk prepayment now. Do systematic small prepayments.

 

For example, Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000 extra every 3–4 months.

 

When income is higher, use that surplus to prepay in parts.

 

Target 1–2 bulk part-payments per year.

 

This reduces tenure and interest slowly, without affecting liquidity.

 

Track Your Loan Amortisation Every 6 Months
Use netbanking or get a fresh loan statement every 6 months.

 

Check how each prepayment is reducing principal.

 

Adjust your strategy accordingly.

 

Avoid One-Time Full Prepayment
That would kill your long-term investment compounding.

 

Also removes your income tax benefit under Section 24(b).

 

Stay flexible. You are self-employed.

 

You need cash buffers more than salaried people.

 

Final Insights
Do not do bulk home loan prepayment from mutual funds now.

 

Keep SIPs going and maintain your compounding.

 

Grow your emergency fund to Rs.6–7 lakhs minimum.

 

Use surplus months to make small part-payments towards home loan.

 

This protects your peace and builds wealth at the same time.

 

Reassess in 2–3 years. You may be able to prepay more later.

 

You are already in a good financial position. Your thoughtful approach is praiseworthy.

 

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Money
i wish to purchase new car i10, should i purchase the same through own money or should i take a vehicle loan from bank and the money own by my to be kept as FDR or liquid mutual fund
Ans: It’s a good sign that you’re thinking before buying a car. You’re not rushing into it. That shows maturity and smart thinking.

We will now evaluate own money vs vehicle loan — from every angle.

 

Understanding the Nature of a Car Purchase
A car is not an investment.

 

It is a consumption asset, not a growth asset.

 

It depreciates every year. Its value goes down, not up.

 

So the cheaper the total cost, the better for your wealth.

 

Option 1: Use Own Money Fully
Pros

No interest cost. You save on total expenses.

 

You are free from monthly EMI pressure.

 

Car becomes fully yours from day one.

 

No need to deal with bank, forms, hypothecation etc.

 

Cons

Your liquid money reduces.

 

You may not have enough cash for emergencies.

 

Opportunity loss if you had invested that money.

 

Option 2: Take Vehicle Loan & Keep Own Money in FDR or Liquid Mutual Fund
Let’s evaluate this with care.

Vehicle Loan Pros

You can preserve your savings for emergencies.

 

EMI can be budgeted monthly, if income is stable.

 

Some banks offer competitive interest rates.

 

Vehicle Loan Cons

You will pay interest on a depreciating item.

 

Loan adds to your monthly obligations.

 

You must pay insurance, EMI, fuel, and service together.

 

FDR and Liquid Mutual Funds give lower returns than loan cost.

 

So you will likely lose more in interest than you gain.

 

Let's Compare: Interest Rate vs Investment Return
Vehicle loan interest is usually 9% to 11% per year.

 

FDR gives around 6% to 7% before tax.

 

Liquid mutual funds give 6% to 7.5% on average.

 

So you pay more to the bank than you earn from investment.

 

Tax on interest or gains reduces actual return further.

 

This means taking a car loan and investing your own money leads to net loss.

 

Best Option for You: Smart Compromise Approach
Let me share a wise solution.

 

Don’t use full own money. Don’t take full loan either.

 

Instead, pay 70–80% from own funds.

 

Take a small car loan for the remaining 20–30% only.

 

This keeps EMI low and retains some liquidity.

 

You reduce interest cost and also keep Rs.50,000–Rs.1 lakh aside.

 

Park that in liquid fund for any urgent need.

 

Repay this small loan fast in 1–2 years.

 

Only Take a Car Loan If:
Your job income is stable.

 

You already have 3–6 months emergency fund ready.

 

You don’t have big loans running now.

 

You can pay EMI without affecting savings.

 

You commit to close the loan early.

 

Avoid This Mistake:
Never buy a more expensive car because loan makes it “feel affordable.”

 

Loan should not expand your car budget.

 

Whether you buy with loan or cash, pick a simple car within limits.

 

i10 is a wise, middle-ground choice. Good thought.

 

Tax Angle (If Business Use)
If you are using the car for business, vehicle loan interest may be tax-deductible.

 

But for personal use, there is no tax benefit.

 

So do not take loan just for imagined tax saving.

 

Final Insights
A car is a need, not an investment.

 

Using your own money fully keeps things simple and cheap.

 

Taking a full car loan and investing the money gives net negative return.

 

Best option is a split approach — pay major part from own funds.

 

Take small loan only if needed and close it early.

 

Always keep emergency money aside before buying.

 

Avoid emotional buying or overbudget cars.

 

Your financially balanced approach is very appreciable.

 

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

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

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

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

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

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

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

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x