It's very informative to read your column in Rediff. I have some queries I hope you can help me with:

I have not worked since 2017, and there is no income. But I have some investments in equities and equity MFs long term.

Hope to hear your valuable answers on these questions.

My questions are:

1. If I redeem my MF how is the capital gain tax computed? I know that 10% is the tax on the gains. But since I have no income and as there is no tax for earning till 2.5 Lakh, and additionally 1 lakh (or is it 1.5lakh) on equity MF redemptions, can I deduct 3.5 lakh from the amount received through gains and apply 10% tax on remaining?

Anil Rego::The basic exemption can also be claimed additionally.

2. Also, what is the difference in terms LTCG on long term equities, long term equity MFs and long term balanced MFs?

Anil Rego::Balanced MFs with equity holding above 65% and equity MFs, both are treated as equity funds and will be taxed as equity fund. Balanced funds with equity less than 65% will be treated similar to debt funds (non-equity).

3. Can long term loss in equity sale be adjusted with long term gain of equity MF or only with similar equity gains? Please advise.

Ans: We suggest consulting a CA regarding the same.

Ans: Answer for 1 and 2

Short-term capital gains on redeeming your equity fund units within a holding period of one year are taxed at a flat rate of 15%, irrespective of your income tax bracket. Those funds exceeding one year holding period is treated as a long-term capital gain. The LTCG are exempted from tax up to Rs. 1,00,000 and any LTCG exceeding this limit shall attract a LTCG tax of 10%, and there is no indexation. 

3. Paying capital gains is same as paying regular income tax. You have to go to the Income Tax India website and pay tax using challan ITNS 280.

Ans: Depending upon the tax regime you choose, your tax liability may vary. If you are taking income tax deductions by investing in PPF, NPS etc then those need to be factored in.

As far as advance tax liability is concerned, considering you do not have any business income and you are over 60 years of age, you are not required to pay advance taxes.

Ans: I appreciate your detailed overview of your financial situation and your proactive approach to investing. Let's address each of your queries systematically to ensure we cover all aspects comprehensively.

1. Taxation on Shares and Mutual Funds: As an NRI, capital gains tax rules apply to your investments in shares and mutual funds in India. For equity investments held for over one year, long-term capital gains (LTCG) are taxed at 10% without indexation. For mutual funds, equity-oriented funds are treated similarly. However, if you become a resident Indian again, you'll be taxed as per the applicable resident Indian tax laws. Increasing your SIPs by 5-10% annually is a prudent strategy, especially considering your long-term investment horizon and the power of compounding. Regarding international funds, they can provide diversification benefits, especially during periods of rupee depreciation, but ensure you understand the associated risks before investing.

2. Investment in Fixed Deposits and Government Bonds: As an NRI, you are eligible to invest in fixed deposits and government bonds in India. Interest earned on fixed deposits is taxable in India, subject to applicable tax laws. Government bonds also carry tax implications, but specific rules depend on the type of bond and your residential status. Given your current location in Saudi Arabia, consider exploring NRI-specific investment options like NRE or NRO fixed deposits, which offer tax benefits and repatriation flexibility.


3. Investment Strategy: Diversification is key to a well-rounded investment portfolio. Equity investments offer long-term growth potential, while debt instruments like PPF provide stability and tax benefits. Considering your risk appetite and investment goals, continue your SIPs in equity mutual funds, but ensure you have an adequate emergency fund in place. Explore options like international funds for global exposure and consider increasing exposure to debt instruments for capital preservation.

4. Investment Considerations for NRIs: As an NRI, it's essential to stay informed about regulatory changes and tax implications related to your investments in India. Additionally, consider factors like currency risk, repatriation restrictions, and geopolitical developments when making investment decisions. Regularly review your portfolio and consult with a financial advisor to optimize your investment strategy based on changing market dynamics.


5. Early Retirement Planning: Achieving early retirement requires careful financial planning and disciplined saving and investing. Start by setting clear retirement goals, estimating your future expenses, and determining the required corpus. Maximize contributions to tax-efficient retirement accounts like EPF, PPF, and NPS. Consider allocating a portion of your portfolio to growth-oriented assets like equity mutual funds to generate inflation-beating returns over the long term. Regularly reassess your retirement plan and adjust your investment strategy as needed to stay on track towards your retirement goals.

By following a systematic approach to investing, staying informed about regulatory changes, and regularly reviewing your financial plan, you can work towards achieving financial stability and early retirement.

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