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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 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
Asked by Anonymous - May 01, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Pranam I am 66 years old married, I need ?10 CR to buy house overseas for my married daughter. I have two flats & office in Mumbai. I have ? 50 lacs each with white oak, ICICI quant & other MFs. I have ? 80 lakhs into FDs with bank @ an average 7% per annum. ? 1 CR with ICICI equity opp. Fund, ? 50 lakh in cash. A land parcel @ ? 3 CR. All properties today's value is ?7 CR. Plz to know how can I manage this funds to achieve the target & by maintaining ourselves till we live. Do have ?10lakh each health policies, monthly rental income is ? 80 k. If I would like to consult you on how do I? Get your contact details.

Ans: Namaste! Your aspirations for providing a home overseas for your daughter reflect your deep sense of familial responsibility. Let's embark on a strategic financial plan to materialize your vision while ensuring your comfort and security in the twilight years of life.

Evaluating Your Current Assets
Your financial arsenal comprises a diverse array of assets, including properties, mutual funds, fixed deposits, equity investments, and cash reserves. This multifaceted portfolio offers a solid foundation for achieving your ambitious goal.

Leveraging Real Estate Holdings
Your properties, with a combined value of ?7 crores, hold significant potential. Consider leveraging your real estate assets through options like mortgage loans or sale of non-essential properties to generate liquidity for your overseas house acquisition.

Maximizing Investment Returns
Diversification is key to optimizing your investment portfolio. Assess the performance of your mutual funds and equity holdings regularly. Consider rebalancing your portfolio and exploring high-performing avenues to enhance returns and bridge the gap towards your target corpus.

Harnessing the Power of Financial Instruments
Fixed deposits offer stability but may not provide optimal returns. Explore avenues like debt mutual funds or tax-efficient investment options to augment your income streams while preserving capital.

Ensuring Adequate Risk Management
Health emergencies can disrupt financial plans. Ensure your health policies are comprehensive and adequate to cover unforeseen medical expenses. Additionally, consider umbrella insurance coverage to safeguard your assets and mitigate potential risks.

Navigating Rental Income
Your monthly rental income of ?80,000 serves as a valuable resource. Explore opportunities to enhance rental yields through property upgrades or strategic leasing arrangements to bolster your cash flows.

Collaborating with a Certified Financial Planner
Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique financial circumstances and aspirations. A CFP will craft a holistic plan, integrating your goals, risk tolerance, and legacy aspirations while ensuring financial security for you and your family.

Extending a Helping Hand
Should you wish to explore further, feel free to reach out for a consultation. Our team at Holistic Investment Planners is committed to empowering you with financial wisdom and steering you towards a prosperous future.

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 05, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello sir, I am 52 years old male currently working abroad.These are my liabilities in next few years 1. Daugher education- only 12.5 more lakhs required as she is in her 2nd year MBA now (probably this is her last academic year and no more courses after this) 2. Sons engineering- 15lakhs total for 4 years at the most, his first year will start now (since based on his marks he should get in Govt college.) For his MBA/MS- probably @ 60 lakhs total if he goes abroad. 3. I have 5 lakhs per month to spare out of which 1 lakh goes in SIP and 12000 goes in to NPS per month. 4. Sons and daugters marriage- total 30-40 lakhs I have below corpus to date. 3.5 crores in MF 50 lakhs in PPF 6 lakhs in shares 15 lakhs in NPS 5 lakhs in FD 30 lakhs in EPF and gratuity so far No real estate investments (besides own house in which we live in ) . Pls guide me 1) Besides MF , I dont see any good investment options. Can you pls advise on AIF, any other investment options which I can do monthly? 2) I want 7 crores retirement corpus and based on this- Rs. 1 lakh on retirement at 60 years (7 more years) after spending on all these liabilities. pls guide on how to go next.
Ans: You are in a strong financial position, with a substantial corpus across multiple assets. At 52, with 7 years until retirement, it’s wise to focus on securing your future while meeting your children's educational and marriage expenses. Let’s break down your situation and plan accordingly.

Assessment of Current Liabilities
Your major financial responsibilities include:

Daughter’s Education: Rs 12.5 lakhs remaining. Since she’s in her final year, this should be a manageable short-term liability.

Son’s Education: Rs 15 lakhs for engineering and potentially Rs 60 lakhs for an MBA or MS abroad. This is a significant future expense.

Children’s Marriages: Rs 30-40 lakhs estimated. This is another considerable future outflow.

These expenses need to be covered while still allowing you to build your retirement corpus.

Analysis of Your Current Investments
You have wisely diversified your investments across mutual funds, PPF, shares, NPS, FD, and EPF. Your current portfolio includes:

Mutual Funds: Rs 3.5 crores, which is your largest investment. Mutual funds offer good growth potential, but careful selection is crucial at this stage.

PPF and EPF: Rs 80 lakhs combined. These are stable, long-term investments offering guaranteed returns.

Shares: Rs 6 lakhs. These can provide growth but come with higher risk.

NPS: Rs 15 lakhs. This is a good retirement-focused investment.

Fixed Deposit: Rs 5 lakhs. This is a low-risk, low-return investment that adds stability to your portfolio.

Investment Recommendations
You have wisely accumulated a significant corpus. However, to reach your retirement goal of Rs 7 crores and secure Rs 1 lakh monthly income post-retirement, here are some suggestions:

Reassessing Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
Focus on Actively Managed Funds: At this stage, avoid index funds due to their passive management. Actively managed funds can offer better returns through skilled fund management. Consider reviewing your current mutual fund holdings to ensure they are aligned with your goals.

Diversify Within Equity Funds: Consider a balanced allocation between large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds. Large-cap funds provide stability, while mid-cap and flexi-cap funds can offer growth potential.

Reduce Risk with Hybrid Funds: Hybrid funds, which invest in both equity and debt, can help manage risk as you approach retirement. They provide a balanced approach with lower volatility.

Explore Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs)
AIFs are an option for sophisticated investors like you. They can offer diversification and potentially higher returns. However, they also come with higher risk and require a significant minimum investment. If considering AIFs, consult with a Certified Financial Planner to evaluate the specific options available and how they fit within your overall strategy.

Increase Your SIPs Strategically
Given your monthly surplus of Rs 5 lakhs, you can increase your SIP contributions. Consider allocating an additional Rs 2-3 lakhs monthly to high-performing equity funds. This will help you reach your Rs 7 crore retirement goal while also preparing for your children’s education and marriage expenses.

Consider Debt Funds for Short-Term Goals
For your children’s education and marriage, you might want to consider short-term debt funds. These funds are less volatile than equity funds and can provide stable returns. They can be a good option for meeting your financial obligations in the next few years without exposing your capital to high risk.

Tax Implications for Your Investments
As an NRI, you should be aware of the tax obligations related to your investments in India:

Capital Gains Tax: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) on equity mutual funds are taxed at 10% if held for more than a year. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 15%.

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS): For NRIs, TDS is applicable on capital gains from equity and debt mutual funds. Ensure that your tax planning considers these deductions.

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): If your country of residence has a DTAA with India, you may be eligible for tax relief. Consult with a tax advisor to optimise your tax liability.

Planning for Retirement
To ensure you reach your retirement corpus of Rs 7 crores and secure Rs 1 lakh monthly income post-retirement, consider the following:

Increase Equity Exposure Now: With 7 years to retirement, increasing your equity exposure can help grow your corpus. As you approach retirement, gradually shift towards safer debt instruments.

Consider Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs): Post-retirement, SWPs from your mutual fund investments can provide a regular monthly income. This will ensure you have a steady flow of funds without depleting your corpus too quickly.

Review Your NPS Allocation: NPS is a good tool for retirement. However, ensure that your equity-debt allocation within the NPS is suitable for your risk profile and retirement goals.

Emergency Fund: Ensure you maintain an adequate emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses, especially as you near retirement.

Finally
You have done well to accumulate a significant corpus and manage your expenses wisely. By strategically increasing your investments in equity funds, exploring AIFs, and managing your tax liabilities, you can confidently reach your retirement goals. Focus on a balanced approach that prioritises both growth and safety as you approach retirement.

Remember, regular reviews with a Certified Financial Planner will ensure your investments stay aligned with your changing needs and market conditions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 02, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2025Hindi
Money
I am planning to purchase a residential property valued at 1.80 crores. I am 35 years old and currently employed in the government sector. My in-hand monthly salary is 1.70 lakhs. To finance this purchase, I am considering taking a home loan of 1.25 crores. This would be a company-provided soft loan with an EMI of 70000 over a tenure of 25 years. The remaining 55 lakhs will be arranged from my own resources. I plan to withdraw 15 lakhs from my mutual funds which currently have a portfolio value of 36.61 lakhs and are yielding an XIRR of 17.26. I will use 5 lakhs from fixed deposits, 30 lakhs from my EPF corpus which totals 60 lakhs, and 5 lakhs from my demat account comprising stocks and Sovereign Gold Bonds. While the stocks are currently underperforming, the SGBs are up, resulting in a net positive value in the demat account. I would like your guidance on whether this financial plan is sound and sustainable in the long term considering my income and investment profile. Should I reconsider any of the proposed fund sources, particularly the partial EPF withdrawal or the liquidation of well-performing mutual funds. Additionally, I would appreciate your insights on any potential risks in terms of liquidity, retirement planning, or future financial obligations. If there are better ways to structure the funding for this purchase while preserving the long-term growth potential of my portfolio, I would be keen to explore those options. Your expert advice on how best to balance this home purchase with continued financial stability and wealth creation would be greatly appreciated.
Ans: . It’s wonderful to see how carefully you’ve considered different sources of funds and how your financial planning reflects your thoughtful approach. Let me review your plan comprehensively, addressing each aspect and providing a 360-degree assessment to ensure your financial stability and long-term wealth creation goals remain intact.

1. Your Current Income and Loan Details
Your monthly in-hand salary is Rs 1.70 lakhs.

You plan to take a company-provided soft loan of Rs 1.25 crores.

The EMI is Rs 70,000 per month over a 25-year period.

The EMI is about 41% of your monthly salary.

Insight: An EMI that is under 50% of your monthly income is considered manageable and does not overstretch your finances. Your plan stays well within this limit, showing prudence.

2. Your Proposed Own Fund Sources
You plan to arrange Rs 55 lakhs from your own resources:

Rs 15 lakhs from mutual funds (portfolio of Rs 36.61 lakhs with 17.26% XIRR).

Rs 5 lakhs from fixed deposits.

Rs 30 lakhs from your EPF corpus (Rs 60 lakhs total).

Rs 5 lakhs from your demat account (stocks and Sovereign Gold Bonds).

Insight: Using multiple sources can be a wise way to avoid overburdening any single asset. However, let’s evaluate each fund source for its impact on your long-term stability.

3. Withdrawal from EPF Corpus
EPF is a critical pillar for your retirement.

It offers compounded, tax-free returns over the long term.

Withdrawing Rs 30 lakhs from the Rs 60 lakh corpus means you are using half of your retirement-focused savings.

Insight: This move may seriously impact your retirement corpus. Though you are eligible to withdraw for home purchase, this significantly reduces the pool that would support your retirement.

I suggest considering whether you can reduce this withdrawal amount. Keeping your EPF corpus intact allows it to grow and support you in your retirement years.

4. Impact of Mutual Fund Redemption
Mutual funds are currently giving an XIRR of 17.26%, which is a strong return.

Selling Rs 15 lakhs of these funds will reduce your future wealth accumulation.

Selling will also trigger capital gains taxes:

For equity mutual funds, long-term capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Insight: By redeeming well-performing mutual funds, you lose out on compounding and higher future wealth creation. Moreover, paying taxes on gains reduces the net amount you receive, making it less efficient.

5. Utilisation of Fixed Deposits and Demat Account
Using Rs 5 lakhs from fixed deposits is logical as they generally offer lower returns.

Redeeming Rs 5 lakhs from your demat account also makes sense if these assets are not high-performing.

Insight: Liquidating fixed deposits and less productive assets is a smart move. This preserves more promising investments like mutual funds.

6. Emergency Fund Planning
It’s vital to ensure you have a dedicated emergency fund even after this home purchase.

Typically, 6-12 months of expenses should be set aside in highly liquid instruments.

Insight: If you use all your available resources without maintaining an emergency fund, it could put your finances at risk during unforeseen events. Be sure to retain enough liquidity to manage emergencies or unexpected situations.

7. Potential Risks of Your Plan
Using half of your EPF corpus can leave you under-prepared for retirement.

Selling mutual funds that are performing well can compromise future financial growth.

Not keeping an emergency fund could put you in a tight spot during a crisis.

Insight: Balancing your immediate need for the home purchase with your long-term goals is crucial. Let’s explore alternative ways to make this happen.

8. Alternative Strategies to Strengthen Your Plan
Here are some ways to reduce the burden on your high-performing assets:

Minimise EPF Withdrawal: Try to limit how much you take from EPF. This way, your retirement plan remains largely unaffected.

Increase the Home Loan Amount: If possible, increase your loan slightly. Home loan rates are typically lower, and this would help you preserve your retirement corpus and mutual fund investments.

Negotiate for Phased Payments: Check if the property seller is willing to accept payments in phases. This gives you more time to plan your fund mobilization and might reduce the immediate pressure to liquidate investments.

Consider Partial Mutual Fund Redemption: Instead of withdrawing Rs 15 lakhs all at once from mutual funds, see if you can use smaller amounts over time. This ensures that the best-performing funds continue to grow.

Utilise Underperforming Demat Holdings: If there are stocks or bonds in your demat account that are not yielding satisfactory returns, prioritise using those funds before touching the better-performing mutual funds.

Insight: By exploring these strategies, you can protect your retirement and long-term financial growth while still achieving your immediate goal of home ownership.

9. Liquidity and Future Financial Flexibility
A healthy liquidity position means you can meet your family’s needs without panic.

It also gives you the power to seize future investment opportunities.

Insight: Avoid draining all your investments now. Retain flexibility so you’re not forced to borrow at high rates later or sell assets in a poor market.

10. Reviewing Your Portfolio Strategy
Mutual funds are actively managed by professionals. Their active monitoring ensures that your investments are handled well and diversified.

If you were investing directly in direct funds without guidance from a certified professional, that could be riskier. Direct funds may save you small costs, but you miss out on expert insights and disciplined investment planning that a certified financial planner and mutual fund distributor provide.

By sticking with regular plans through a certified mutual fund distributor, you get ongoing portfolio reviews and access to updated advice.

Insight: Stay focused on using the expertise of certified professionals who understand the market’s movements and can help rebalance your investments. This prevents costly mistakes and ensures sustained growth.

11. Avoid Real Estate as an Investment Option
Real estate investments can be illiquid.

They can involve high maintenance and transaction costs.

They may not offer returns that match the compounding potential of mutual funds.

Insight: Since you are buying this property for residential use, it’s fine. But avoid viewing it as a wealth-building vehicle compared to your mutual funds and EPF.

12. Importance of Professional Advice
Working with a certified financial planner can give you a clear, holistic perspective. They can help you:

Reassess your portfolio balance.

Structure the home purchase funding in a way that preserves your future wealth.

Ensure your retirement goals remain protected.

Prepare for future family needs, like children’s education or healthcare costs.

Insight: Having a professional eye ensures that every financial decision aligns with your unique needs and long-term dreams.

13. Finally
Your plan reflects a clear focus on home ownership, which is commendable. But it’s essential to ensure that your retirement dreams and wealth-building goals are not compromised.

Consider these points:

Reduce EPF withdrawal as much as possible.

Use more of your low-yield assets like fixed deposits and underperforming stocks.

Protect your mutual funds that are delivering strong returns and helping grow your wealth.

Keep an emergency fund untouched.

Explore if you can slightly increase your home loan, given its lower interest cost, to reduce pressure on your best investments.

Work with a certified financial planner to craft a 360-degree strategy that keeps your financial future safe.

You have done excellent groundwork. Small adjustments will ensure your home purchase brings joy without worries for the future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 35 years old. I have below conditions- - House with value of 1.7 Cr with 65 lacs of loan - 37 as OD account and remaining 28 as top up loan - PPF of 15 lacs - MF of 16 lacs in all types small, medium, large Index funds - A residential plot of value 45 lacs - A monthly SIP of 1 lac in above MFs - Health Insurance of my complete family including parents and in laws - My term Insurance of 2 Cr - I have 2 kids of age 1 - I have monthly expesne of 2 lacs per month including everything - My wife and my joint income is of 3.5 lacs Goals - - Continue to spend similar in after retirement 2 lacs per month - Children education after 18 years - 2 Cr - Children marriage- 1 Cr Adjust goal amounts with inflation in future. Questions- - Clear strategy and advice staring where to invest which funds or assets to target including their names to achieve goals - I will have get addiotnal amount of 10 lacs in next 6 months which I am planning to use to close one house loan or do part payment. Suggest me best usgae of this fund to get maximum value. - Suggest overall planning if I want to retire in 10 years. -
Ans: You have built a strong base at a young age. You are managing high-value assets, regular investments, and key protections well. Let me now provide a complete, 360-degree financial plan, following your goals, with clear and practical steps.

» Assets and Income – Present Foundation

House value is Rs. 1.7 Cr with Rs. 65 lakh home loan.

Of this, Rs. 37 lakh is an overdraft, Rs. 28 lakh is a top-up.

You have Rs. 15 lakhs in PPF. This gives safe and tax-free growth.

Mutual funds total Rs. 16 lakhs. This includes all categories, even index funds.

You own a plot worth Rs. 45 lakhs. But we won’t count this as core retirement asset.

You invest Rs. 1 lakh per month through SIPs.

Family has health insurance. You have Rs. 2 Cr term insurance, which is sufficient.

Monthly expenses are Rs. 2 lakhs. Family income is Rs. 3.5 lakhs.

» Goals – Future Vision

Children’s education: Rs. 2 Cr needed in 18 years.

Children’s marriage: Rs. 1 Cr needed later.

Retirement in 10 years. Want to maintain Rs. 2 lakhs per month expenses.

Let’s now analyse and align investments to each goal.

» Key Flaw – Presence of Index Funds

Index funds offer no downside protection in volatile markets.

You cannot switch strategy during market corrections.

They underperform actively managed funds in non-bull phases.

You also lose the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner with direct/index investing.

Recommend shifting index funds to well-managed active funds.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner offer monitoring, advice, and better discipline.

» Rs. 10 Lakh Surplus – Use Wisely

You expect Rs. 10 lakhs in 6 months.

You are thinking of closing the home loan partially.

Do not repay the top-up or OD loan unless rate is above 10%.

Check which loan portion is carrying higher interest.

If OD/top-up loan interest rate:

Above 10%, repay partially.

Between 8–10%, consider partial repayment or investment.

Below 8%, better to invest the money.

Instead of full prepayment, split the Rs. 10 lakhs like this:

Rs. 3 lakhs into short-term active hybrid funds (1–2 years holding)

Rs. 3 lakhs into balanced advantage fund (long term)

Rs. 4 lakhs to repay highest interest part of home loan (if >10%)

This strategy balances liquidity, tax benefit, and debt reduction.

» Existing Mutual Funds – Streamline Portfolio

Avoid keeping too many schemes. It creates confusion and duplication.

You already have small-cap, mid-cap, large-cap, and index.

Exit index funds gradually through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan).

Shift to actively managed flexi-cap or multi-cap funds.

Retain 2 small-cap, 1 mid-cap, 2 flexi-cap, 1 large-cap fund.

Avoid sectoral funds unless you have very high risk capacity.

» Rs. 1 Lakh Monthly SIP – Goal-Wise Split

Split your Rs. 1 lakh monthly SIP as per goals:

Rs. 40,000 – Retirement (long term, aggressive mix):

Small-cap (2 funds) – Rs. 15,000

Mid-cap (1 fund) – Rs. 10,000

Flexi-cap (1–2 funds) – Rs. 15,000

Rs. 35,000 – Children’s education (18-year goal):

Balanced Advantage Fund – Rs. 15,000

Large-cap fund – Rs. 10,000

Flexi-cap – Rs. 10,000

Rs. 25,000 – Children’s marriage (long term):

Multi-cap or Focused Equity fund – Rs. 15,000

Hybrid equity fund – Rs. 10,000

Review this SIP mix once every 12–15 months with a Certified Financial Planner.

» PPF – Use Strategically

PPF maturity can align with children’s college or marriage needs.

Avoid fresh contributions if SIPs are already fully covering long-term needs.

Let current PPF grow passively.

Use it as backup for future emergencies or children’s education gap.

» Home Loan – Manage Intelligently

Home loan gives tax benefit under Sec 24 and 80C.

If EMI interest is under 8.5%, continue regular EMI payments.

Don’t rush to prepay if you get better returns through SIPs.

Use OD smartly. Park idle funds to reduce interest.

If OD is interest-only, repay principal gradually after age 45.

» Children’s Education Planning – Separate Fund Tracking

Target Rs. 2 Cr in 18 years (inflation-adjusted).

Allocate SIPs separately. Use 3 funds only.

Track the education corpus separately every year.

Around 6–8 years before college, shift to hybrid funds slowly.

In last 3 years, move to short-term debt funds.

» Children’s Marriage Planning – Long Horizon

This is a flexible goal.

Target Rs. 1 Cr in 20–22 years.

You can use retirement surplus if children are settled.

Maintain equity allocation till 10 years before marriage.

Gradually move funds to hybrid and then debt category.

» Retirement Planning – Prime Focus

Retirement is only 10 years away.

You want Rs. 2 lakh per month post-retirement.

This means you need around Rs. 5–6 Cr corpus in 10 years.

SIP of Rs. 40,000/month can give about Rs. 1.1–1.2 Cr in 10 years (moderate estimate).

You will need to add lump sums, bonuses, or step-up SIP by 10% yearly.

Use top-up ELSS or hybrid equity funds for retirement benefit if you want tax savings.

Invest extra income or bonuses annually in retirement-linked hybrid funds.

» Real Estate – Don’t Rely on Plot

Plot of Rs. 45 lakh value is not generating income.

Don’t count this in retirement funding.

Avoid holding it for emotional or uncertain future gain.

If you get a strong offer in 4–5 years, consider liquidating.

Redeploy to MF/retirement corpus or children’s education pool.

» Emergency Fund – Build Cushion

Current expenses are Rs. 2 lakhs/month.

You need Rs. 6 lakhs as emergency fund minimum.

Use ultra-short-term debt funds or bank sweep-in FD.

Do not keep emergency corpus in equity.

» Insurance Review – Important Step

Term insurance of Rs. 2 Cr is sufficient.

Check tenure. Ensure it covers till age 60–65.

Health insurance covers family and in-laws. That is very good.

Confirm if parents and in-laws have sufficient separate sum insured.

Ensure no sub-limits for ICU, surgery, or room rent.

» Taxation – Plan Proactively

New MF CG rules apply.

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh on equity funds is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG on equity funds is now 20%.

Debt fund capital gains are taxed as per your income slab.

Avoid short-term exits.

Use STP instead of lump-sum exit to manage taxation.

» Financial Discipline – Stay On Course

Don’t chase hot sectors or returns.

Don’t add too many new funds every year.

Review only once in 12–15 months.

Rebalance if one fund type outperforms by 25–30% or more.

Keep goal tracking in separate sheets or folders.

Avoid direct stocks unless you have experience and time.

» Future Step-Up Strategy – Essential Boost

Increase your SIP amount by 8–10% every year.

Use every salary hike or bonus partly for investment.

Target Rs. 1.3–1.5 lakh monthly SIP in next 5 years.

This will bring your retirement and child goals closer.

» Will & Nomination – Secure the Family

Make sure mutual funds have nominees.

Register a Will clearly.

Mention who will manage children’s education and money.

Keep all investments jointly or assign alternate nominees.

» Finally

You are already on a solid foundation. Your income is strong. You are investing well. But refining the strategy will give maximum value. Prioritising SIP allocation by goals, exiting index funds, and smartly using the Rs. 10 lakh surplus will make your future more secure. Don’t rely on plots or illiquid assets. Increase your SIPs each year. Retirement at 45 is possible with discipline. Family goals like education and marriage are achievable with your planned steps. Continue to review annually. You are on the right path.

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

..Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |423 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 17, 2025

Money
Hi, i am 49 Years ex-servicemen personal, currently working in IR. Sallary arround 50k, defence pension 31k. I have 10lk savings in MF, only as i was elder son and full fill all family responsibilities. Now i have 10 lk debt personal loan for land. I don't have My own house, two girls childs, monthly expenses 30k, EM31 k.. investment 3k endowment plan, 1.5k Term plan for 60 lk. SIP 3k MOS midcap, 5k MOS gold &silver, 4k bandhan small cap, 3k Mos build india fund, 2k Invesco large and mid cap. 11k in nps including Gov part. Please suggest me loan management and Home buying planning. Also good corpus at retirement. I have one 1100sq land for house.
Ans: Hi Harendra,

Kindly share details of your endowmnet plan. Usually such a plan is a mix of insurance & investment and 'is godd for Nither'. One should keep investment and insurance totally separate.

Term Insurance looks good. Also make sure to have ample health cover for your family.

Your expenses can be taken care of by your defence pension for life. You need to accumulate some corpus for your kids education and marriage. Currently you are investing 17k monthly in SIP and this can give you around 80 lakhs at 60 age. Which is a good amount for your cushion (other than monthly expenses).

You can start building your house on the land post completing your existing loan. It can be ready by you turn 60.

85 lakhs from mutual funds and your NPS along with your defense pension are good to go for your retirement after looking at your expenses. If possible, start saving somehting for your kids soleley for their future.

As your MF corpus is more than 10 lakhs, you should consult a Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds and plan to invest in keeping in mind your age, goals and risk profile.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

..Read more

Latest Questions
Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |646 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 07, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Dear Madam, I was a bright student during my school days and my plan was to become a civil servant but that did not succeed even after several attempts. With the advise of my brother i went ahead and pursued Masters at a normal university in Sydney. I did internship and continued staying with my job though it wasn't my field of study. After that what came as a shock was my brother's divorce. We don't know what is the actual issue till date but I tried a lot to fix the gap by talking to his ex-wife but they were very orthodox. I couldn't see my brother suffer because he had planned and arranged so much for her. I had no choice then so i try to harm his ex-wife by spoiling her reputation thinking she will come back for him. In the mean time i got married to a girl who was her relative too thinking my wife can help us in some case but she turned out to be completely in the opposite direction. She was probably convinced by my brother's ex-wife or their relatives that she is not coming back. Even then my brother tried to go meet his ex-wife through many channels. My wife did not help him at all in any aspect. Finally the divorced happened and everything ended. Now we have sought several proposals but nothing seem to be a good fit for him. Most of the girls whom we met on matrimonial sites are fake profiles with something hidden or falsely represented. I would say my brother escaped all this. But we are worried about his life now as he is already in his 40's and he seem to be struggling for a good job and finance. He is very picky probably but doesn't talk much to all of us. Sometimes he even says the game is over so no point looking at a second marriage. My wife and he fought once when he visited us because she didn't want him in our house and she created a fight putting me in the front. After that he stopped coming to our house or see us or talk to us. Things even gets worse sometimes when her brother comes and visits us and stays at our house which my parents don't like. My parents argue that your brother was not allowed to stay for few months then how come her brother is allowed for several months. What kind of partiality is that? I feel i could not do anything for him despite the fact that he is my only brother. He is good at heart and looked after me when i went abroad financially and even came to meet me few times. I tried to send him money, gifts but he is still the same. He communicates with our parents but not with me nor my wife anymore. Kindly give us a good advise.
Ans: Your brother’s distance is not a rejection of you. It is his way of protecting himself. He went through a difficult marriage, an emotional collapse, and then watched people around him — including you — react out of desperation to fix things for him. Even though your intentions came from love, he may have associated those actions with more pain and pressure. When a person has been wounded, silence feels safer than conversation. His withdrawal simply means he is tired, not that he dislikes you.
You also need to understand that the guilt you are carrying is heavier than it needs to be. You tried to intervene in his marriage because you wanted to protect him, not because you wanted to cause harm. Looking back now, with more maturity and clarity, you see the mistakes, but at that time, you were acting out of fear and love. This is why it’s important to forgive yourself instead of punishing yourself over and over.
The conflict between your wife and your brother only added another layer of stress, because it forced you into choosing sides. Your wife reacted emotionally, your brother pulled away, your parents questioned the imbalance — and in the middle of all this, you lost your sense of peace. But their disagreements are not failures on your part. They are the natural result of people operating from insecurity, fear, and past hurt.
What needs to happen now is a shift in your role. You cannot continue trying to solve everything for everyone. You cannot carry your brother’s marriage, your wife’s fears, and your parents’ judgments all at once. It’s time to step out of the role of rescuer and step into the role of a grounded, calm brother who offers presence, not solutions.
Rebuilding your bond with your brother will not come from pushing proposals, sending gifts, or trying to fix his life. It will come from offering him emotional safety. A simple message, expressing that you are sorry for any hurt, that you care for him, and that you are available whenever he feels ready, will speak louder than any effort to arrange his future. Once you send such a message, the healthiest thing you can do is give him space. Sometimes relationships repair themselves in silence, when pressure is removed.
And for yourself, healing begins when you stop believing that every problem in the family rests on your shoulders. You have given more than enough over the years. Now you deserve emotional rest. You deserve peace. You deserve to feel like a brother, not a crisis manager.
Your brother may take time, but distance does not erase love. When he feels safe, he will come closer again. Your responsibility is not to force that moment, but to make sure you are emotionally steady and ready when it happens.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 11, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear sir This is regarding my mother's financials. She is 71 years old and she earns a pension of 31k p.m. She has FD's worth 60 lacs and earns interest income of Rs.25k. I wish to know if we can buy mutual funds worth 10 lacs by diverting funds from FD for better returns. She owns a house and does not have house rent commitment . She is currently investing 10k p.m in SIP . Now the lump sum investment of 5 lacs each is intended to be done in HDFC balanced advantage fund Direct Growth and ICICI Prudential balanced advantage fund . Please advise
Ans: You are caring about your mother’s future.
This shows deep responsibility.
Her financial base also looks strong today.
Her pension gives steady cash.
Her FD interest gives extra safety.
Her home is secure.
Her SIP shows healthy discipline.

» Her Present Financial Position
Your mother is 71.
Her age makes safety a key priority.
But some growth is also needed.

She gets Rs 31000 pension each month.
This covers most basic needs.
Her FD interest adds Rs 25000 per month.
So her total monthly inflow is near Rs 56000.
This is healthy at her age.

She owns her house.
She has no rent stress.
This gives great relief.

She has FD worth Rs 60 lakh.
This gives safe income.
She also runs a SIP of Rs 10000 per month.
This is a good step.
It keeps her connected to long-term growth.

Her total structure looks balanced.
She has safety.
She has income.
She has some growth exposure.
She has low liabilities.

This is a very stable base for her age.

» Understanding Her Risk Level
At age 71, risk must be low.
But risk cannot be zero.
Zero risk pushes money into FD only.
FD return stays low.
FD return sometimes falls after tax.
FD return often stays below inflation.

This reduces future buying power.
Inflation in India stays high.
Medical costs rise fast.
Home repair costs rise.
Daily needs rise.
So some growth is needed.

Balanced exposure gives stability.
Balanced allocation protects both sides.
She should not go too high on equity.
She should not avoid equity fully.
A middle path works best at this age.

Your idea of shifting Rs 10 lakh for growth is fine.
But the type of fund must be chosen well.
The plan must also follow her age.
Her risk must be respected.

» Impact of Growth Options at Her Age
Growth funds move with markets.
Markets move up and down.
These swings can disturb seniors.
But some controlled equity helps fight inflation.

Funds with mix of equity and debt help.
They adjust risk.
They protect capital better.
They manage volatility better.
They offer smoother experience.
They suit senior citizens more.

So a mild growth approach is healthy.
This gives better long-term value.
This gives inflation protection.
This reduces long-term stress.

Still, the fund choice must be careful.
And the plan style must be guided.

» Concerns With Direct Plans
You mentioned direct funds.
Direct funds seem cheap.
But cheap is not always better.

Direct funds give no guidance.
Direct funds give no review support.
Direct funds give no risk matching.
Direct funds need constant study.
Direct funds need skill.
Direct funds need time.

Many investors think direct plans save money.
But small savings can cause big losses.
Wrong choices reduce returns.
Wrong timing reduces gains.
Wrong exit increases tax.

Regular plans bring professional support through MFDs with CFP credentials.
They offer yearly reviews.
They track risk closely.
They guide corrections.
They support crisis moments.
They help in asset mix.
They help keep emotions stable.

This support is very helpful for seniors.
Your mother will not need to study markets.
She will not need to track cycles.
She will not need to worry about volatility.
She can stay calm.

So regular plans may suit her better.
The small extra fee is actually buying professional hand-holding.
This hand-holding protects wealth.
This reduces mistakes.
This brings long-term peace.

» Her Liquidity Need
At age 71, liquidity matters.
She must access money fast during emergencies.
Medical needs can arise.
Health cost can be sudden.
She must be ready.

FD gives quick access.
This is useful.
So FD should not be reduced too much.

Shifting Rs 10 lakh is acceptable.
But shifting more may reduce comfort.
She must always feel safe.
Her emotional comfort is important.

So Rs 10 lakh is the right level.
It keeps major FD corpus safe.
It keeps growth exposure controlled.

This balance supports her peace.

» Her Current SIP
She puts Rs 10000 per month in SIP.
This is positive.
This brings slow steady growth.
This builds long-term value.

She should continue this SIP.
She may reduce it later based on comfort.
But she should not stop it now.
This SIP adds inflation protection.
This SIP builds a small buffer.

A continuous SIP helps smooth markets.
It builds confidence.

» Income Stability for Her
Her pension covers needs.
Her FD interest adds comfort.
Her SIP invests for future needs.
Her home saves rent.

So she has stable income.
Her life standard is maintained.
Her risk level can stay low.

Her monthly cash flow is positive.
Her needs are covered.
So she need not worry about returns too much.
But a little growth is still healthy.

» Should She Shift Rs 10 Lakh From FD?
Yes, she can shift Rs 10 lakh.
This does not hurt her safety.
This does not shake her cash flow.
This supports inflation protection.

But the fund must be right.
The plan must match her age.
The risk must stay low.
The allocation must stay controlled.

A balanced strategy is better.
Smooth returns suit seniors.
Moderate risk suits her age.

Still, the fund must be in regular plan.
Direct plan may cause long-term risk.
Direct plans place the heavy load on the investor.
At her age, this stress is avoidable.
Regular plans give smoother support.

» Why Not Use the Specific Schemes Mentioned
The schemes you named are direct plans.
Direct plans give no support.
Direct plans leave all decisions to you.
Direct plans leave all risk checks on you.

Also, each fund has its own style.
Each adjusts differently.
You must check suitability.
You must review them yearly.
This needs time and skill.

For her age, this is not ideal.
A simple, guided, regular plan works better.

Also, some funds change risk levels fast.
Some increase equity without warning.
Some change style in market shifts.
This can disturb seniors.
She must stay with stable funds.
She must stay with guided models.

This protects her long-term peace.

» The Role of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds suit Indian markets.
India grows fast.
Sectors rise and fall fast.
Many companies grow fast.
Many also fall fast.

Active managers study these shifts.
They adjust quicker.
They avoid weak sectors.
They add strong businesses.
They protect downside.
They enhance upside.

Index funds cannot do this.
Index funds copy indices.
Indices carry weak companies also.
Indices carry overpriced stocks.
Indices do not avoid bad phases.
Indices cannot change weight fast.
So index funds give no defensive shield.

Actively managed funds work harder.
They try to reduce shocks.
They try to smooth volatility.
This suits seniors more.

So an active regular plan through an MFD with CFP credentials is better for her.

» Tax Angle on Mutual Fund Redemption
Capital gain rules matter.
For equity funds, long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh have 12.5% tax.
Short-term gains have 20% tax.
Debt fund gains follow your tax slab.

Senior investors must plan exits well.
They must avoid excess tax shock.
They must stagger withdrawals.
They must redeem only when needed.

A guided regular plan helps avoid tax mistakes.
Direct funds offer no such guidance.

» Her Emergency Preparedness
At her age, emergency readiness is key.
She must have quick cash.
She must have easy access.
Her FD base helps this.

She has Rs 60 lakh in FD.
This is strong.
She should keep most of this.
Maybe an emergency bucket of Rs 5 to 10 lakh must stay fully liquid.

This brings peace.
This prevents panic.
This avoids forced redemption.

» Family Support System
You are involved.
This protects her retirement.
You can offer emotional help.
You can offer decision help.
This support makes her financial life safe.

Family support keeps stress low for seniors.
She will feel secure.
She will stay calm during market changes.

» How Her Future Years Can Stay Stable
She needs comfort.
She needs safety.
She needs liquidity.
She needs some growth.
She needs health cover.
She needs emotional peace.

A control-based plan helps:
– Keep most money in FD
– Keep some in balanced mutual funds
– Keep SIP running
– Keep money easily accessible
– Keep risk low
– Keep asset mix simple
– Keep tax impact low
– Keep reviews yearly

This keeps her retirement smooth.

» Built-In Protection for Senior Life
Her plan must also protect future risk.
Medical cost may rise.
Home repairs may occur.
Occasional family support may be needed.

So she must:
– Keep cash bucket
– Keep healthy insurance
– Keep documents updated
– Keep financial papers organised
– Keep digital and physical files safe

This brings long-term safety.

» Withdrawal Strategy
She may not need withdrawals now.
Her income covers expenses.
But she may need money in later years.

She should follow a layered method:

Short-term needs from FD

Medium needs from balanced funds

Long-term needs from SIP corpus

Emergency money from liquid FD

This spreads risk.
This avoids sudden losses.
This protects her capital.

» Assessing the Rs 10 Lakh Transfer
This transfer is fine.
But it must not go to direct plans.
It must go to regular plans.
Guided plans reduce mistakes.
Guided plans suit seniors.

Split into two funds is fine.
But avoid too much complexity.
Simple structure reduces stress.
Easy structure improves clarity.

So two regular plans through an MFD with CFP credentials is ideal.

» Final Insights
Your mother has a strong base.
Her pension is stable.
Her FD pool is healthy.
Her home reduces cost.
Her SIP adds growth.

Adding Rs 10 lakh into balanced mutual funds is a good idea.
But shift to regular plans with expert guidance.
Direct plans are not suitable for seniors.
They bring more risk.
They bring more complexity.
They bring more stress.

Regular plans bring reviews.
Regular plans match risk.
Regular plans reduce mistakes.
Regular plans suit her age.

Her future looks stable with this mix.
Her life can stay comfortable.
She can enjoy her senior years with peace.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 53 years with a wife and two children. My total savings comprising of MF, Shares, PDF,EPF, NPS & FD are approx. 3Cr. Our current monthly outgoing including SIPs is approximately 100000. Will the above savings amount be sufficient to sustain for the next 20 years?
Ans: You have managed to build Rs 3 Cr by age 53.
This shows steady discipline.
Your savings mix also looks balanced.
Your family seems stable.
Your cost control also looks fair.
This gives a good base for the next stage of life.

» Your Current Position
Your savings stand near Rs 3 Cr.
Your monthly outflow is near Rs 100000.
This includes your SIP amount also.
Your family has four members.
You have two children.
Your wife is with you.
You have a mixed pool across MF, shares, PF, EPF, NPS, and FD.
This mix brings both growth and stability.
This gives you a good base.

Your age is 53.
You have around 7 to 12 working years left.
This period is crucial.
Your decisions now shape the next 20 years.
Your savings rate also matters.
Your cost control also shapes the future.

Today’s numbers show you have a good foundation.
But sustainability depends on many factors.
We must study inflation, spending pattern, growth pattern, tax, risk level, health cost, and cash flow flexibility.

» Understanding the Cash Flow Stress
Your family spends around Rs 100000 today.
This includes SIP.
After retirement, SIP will stop.
But living costs will continue.
Costs increase each year.
Inflation can eat cash fast.
So we must ensure growth in wealth.
Slow growth can stress the corpus.
Fast growth brings more shocks.
So balance is key.

Rs 3 Cr looks large today.
But 20 years is long.
Inflation reduces buying power.
Medical costs also rise.
Family needs also shift.

Your money can last 20 years.
But it needs correct planning.
Blind use of the corpus will not help.
Proper flow matters.
Proper asset selection also matters.
You need steady growth.
You need low shocks.
You need stable income.

» Role of Growth Assets
Many families fear growth assets.
But growth assets are needed today.
Inflation is strong in India.
If money stays in FD only, it suffers.
FD return stays low.
Post-tax return stays even lower.
FD return does not beat inflation.
FD cannot support long-term plans.

Mutual funds bring better growth.
Actively managed funds bring better research.
They allow expert judgement.
They can handle market swings better.
They study sectors and businesses.
They adjust the portfolio.
They aim for more consistent returns.
This helps protect wealth.

Some people choose direct plans.
But direct plans need full time study.
They need skill.
They need discipline.
Most investors do not have the time.
Wrong choices can reduce returns.
Direct plans give no guidance.
Direct plans can reduce long-term peace.

Regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential give better support.
They help with reviews.
They help with corrections.
They help with rebalancing.
They help manage behaviour.
They save time and stress.

You already have MF exposure.
This is good.
You should keep this path.
Active fund management will help long-term stability.

» Role of Safety Assets
You have EPF, PPF, NPS, FD.
These give safety.
They give peace.
But they give lower return.
Too much safety reduces future income.
A mix of both is needed.

Safety assets give steady income.
But they do not grow fast.
They cannot support 20 years alone.
So balance must be kept.

» Assessing the Sustainability for 20 Years
Rs 3 Cr can support 20 years.
But it depends on:

Your retirement age

Your spending pattern

Your ability to reduce costs

Your asset mix

Your growth rate

Your inflation level

Your health cost

Your emergency needs

If your core expenses stay in control, your corpus can last.
If you invest well, your corpus can support you.
If you avoid panic, your wealth will grow.
Your children may also get settled.
Your own needs may reduce.

The key is proper planning.
Without planning, the corpus can shrink fast.
With planning, it will last long.

» Inflation Impact
Inflation is silent.
It eats buying power.
Costs double every few years.
Food rises.
Health rises.
Daily life rises.
School fees rise.
Lifestyle rises.

If your money grows slower than inflation, you lose power.
So growth assets must be part of the plan.
They help beat inflation.
They help protect lifestyle.
They help support long-term needs.

This is why active mutual funds stay useful.
They bring research-driven decisions.
They help fight inflation better.
They stay flexible.
They move with the economy.

» Evaluating Your Retirement Readiness
You stand near retirement zone.
You still have some working life.
You still earn.
You still save.
Your income supports your SIP.
This is good.
This is the right stage to improve planning.

Your SIP amount builds future cash.
Your insurance must be proper.
Your emergency fund must be strong.
Your health cover must be strong.

You have PF and NPS.
These give safety.
They bring stability.
They give steady return.
But they do not give high return.
Growth will come from MF and equity.

Your retirement readiness depends on:

Cash flow plan

Growth plan

Insurance plan

Medical cover plan

Long-term income plan

Withdrawal plan

When all parts align, you will stay secure.

» Withdrawal Strategy for the Future
When you retire, cash flow must stay smooth.
You cannot depend on FD alone.
You cannot depend only on EPF.
You cannot depend on one asset class.
You need a mix.

Your withdrawal should come from:

Some from safety assets

Some from growth assets

Some from periodic rebalancing

This helps you avoid panic selling.
This helps you maintain stability.
This protects your lifestyle.

Tax must also be managed.
Tax on equity MF has new rules.
Long-term gain above Rs 1.25 lakh has 12.5% tax.
Short-term gain has 20% tax.
Debt MF gain follows your tax slab.
These rules shape your withdrawal plan.
You must plan redemptions wisely.

» Health and Family Factors
Health cost is rising in India.
Hospital bills rise fast.
Health shocks drain savings.
So good health cover is needed.
Family needs must be studied.

Your children may still need some support.
Their education or marriage may need funds.
These costs must be planned early.
You should not dip into retirement money.
Clear planning avoids stress.

Your wife also needs future support.
Joint planning is better.
Shared decisions help discipline.

» Need for a Structured Review
A structured review every year is needed.
Your income may change.
Your savings may rise.
Your spending may shift.
Your goals may change.
Your risk level may shift.
Your family needs may change.

Review helps you stay on track.
Review helps catch issues early.
Review helps you correct mistakes.
Review brings peace.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide reviews.
This support builds confidence.
This reduces stress.
This brings clarity.

» How to Strengthen Your Position
You already stand strong.
But you can still improve.
Here are some steps to make your 20 years safer.

Keep your growth-safety mix balanced

Increase your SIP when income allows

Avoid direct plans if guidance needed

Use regular plans for proper support

Avoid real estate due to low returns

Increase your emergency fund

Improve your health cover

Avoid ULIP and mixed plans if you ever have them

Review your EPF and NPS allocation

Track your spending carefully

Plan for yearly rebalancing

Keep enough liquidity for short needs

Keep boredom decisions away

Stay invested even in tough times

Trust long-term compounding

Each step adds stability.
Your family will feel safe.

» Building a Strong Future Income Flow
Income must not come from one basket.
Income should come from:

MF SWP

PF interest

FD ladder

NPS withdrawal in a slow way

Equity redemption in a planned way

This spreads risk.
This spreads tax.
This spreads stress.

Staggered withdrawal helps peace.
Your money grows even while you spend.
Your corpus stays healthy.

» Maintaining Low Stress in Retirement
Retirement should be peaceful.
Money stress should be low.
Good planning ensures this.

Keep clear communication with your family.
Keep your files organised.
Keep your goals updated.
Keep calm during market swings.

Your corpus can support you.
Your strategy will shape your peace.

» Final Insights
Your Rs 3 Cr corpus is a strong base.
Your age gives you time to improve more.
Your monthly spending is manageable.
Your asset mix supports your future.

But planning is needed.
Cash flow must be aligned with inflation.
Growth assets must stay active.
Safety assets must be balanced.
Withdrawal must be planned wisely.
Health cost must be covered.
Risk must be contained.

With proper planning, your wealth can support the next 20 years.
Your family can live with comfort.
Your lifestyle can stay stable.
Your future can stay safe.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |423 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Money
Dear Sir, I am 60 yrs and just superannuated. I have no pension and the spread of corpus is as follows; - MF & Shares portfolio value is around 1 Cr. SWP of 40000/month initiated. But SIP of 20000/month is also on for next six months - FDs in bank is around 3. Cr and are in Quarterly pay-out interest - PPF of 20 Lac - RBI Bond of 16 lac half yearly interest pay out - PF 90 Lac not withdrawn so far as I can extend this with 1 yr. - Few SA pension 63000 per year Please do suggest if the above can give me expenses to meet 2.5 Lac/m for next 20 yrs Best regards,
Ans: Hi Deepa,

Overall your total networth is 5 crores (including PF, FD, MF, binds etc.) - we will break it into 4 crores (which can be used to fund your retirement) and 1 crore for emergencies.
If invested correctly, this 4 crores can fund you for 20 years and not more than that. You need to invest 4 crores so that they fetch you around 11-12% XIRR to fund your monthly expenses. Also withdraw your PF, liquidate 2 crores from FD and reinvest entirely.

Take the help of a professional who will design your portfolio keeping in mind your monthly requirements for the next 20 years.

Hence please consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile. A CFP periodically reviews your portfolio and suggest any amendments to be made, if required.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

...Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |423 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 08, 2025Hindi
Money
I am doing 2Lkh monthly SIP as following: 1. Parag Parikh flexi - 50K 2. Tata Small cap - 50K 3. Invesco India Small cap - 50K 4. Quant Mid cap - 20K 5. HDFC Index - 10K 6. Tata Nifty Midcap 150 momentum 50 index - 10K 7. Edelweiss US Tech FOF - 10K My wife is running 30K monthly SIP, 6K in each 1. Quant Small cap 2. Quant Flexi cap 3. Kotak Multi cap 4. JioBlackrock Nifty 50 index 5. JioBlackrock Flexi cap My dad also invest 30K in SIP monthly, 6K in each 1. Parag Parikh flexi 2. Axis small cap 3. Kotak flexi cap 4. Edelweiss mid cap 5. Tata nifty midcap 150 momentum 50 I am investing for retirement with 15 year horizon. Whereas my wife is investing for my daughter’s education and marriage - she is targeting to invest for 17 years (and keep invested till our daughter marriage). My father is 70 and has 15 year investment horizon - to pass on as a gift to his grandkids. Please evaluate the investment strategy.
Ans: Hi,

It is a very good habit and strategy to align your investments with your goals. You, your wife and your father are on the right track. However the funds you described are not in alignment with your goals and highly overlapped one.
It is always better to take the help of a professional when it comes to money.
A single mistake can break your portfolio. Please do work with a dedicated professional to correct your strategy.

Do consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile. A CFP periodically reviews your portfolio and suggest any amendments to be made, if required.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

...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