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Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 09, 2024

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Asked by Anonymous - Feb 08, 2024Hindi
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Can a SIP of Rs 2,000 per month for 20 years help me earn Rs 40 lakh? I would also be interested in doing a top-up SIP of Rs 1,000 after end of every year, and may be Rs 2,000 SIP top-up after three years. What kind of returns can I expect from this endeavor?

Ans: Whether a SIP of Rs 2,000 per month for 20 years with top-ups can help you earn Rs 40 lakh depends on the rate of return you achieve. Here's a breakdown:
Investment plan:
• Monthly SIP: Rs 2,000
• Investment period: 20 years (240 months)

Top-up SIP:
• Rs 1,000 annually
• Rs 2,000 after 3 years (one-time)

Possible returns:

It's impossible to predict future returns with certainty, but here's an estimate based on historical averages:

• Equity mutual funds: Historically, equity mutual funds in India have delivered average annual returns of around 12-15%. With this rate, you could reach Rs 40 lakh in approximately 15-17 years.
• Debt mutual funds: Debt funds offer lower returns but are less volatile. They typically yield 6-8% annually. At this rate, reaching Rs 40 lakh would take much longer, possibly exceeding 20 years.

Reaching Rs 40 lakh:

Based on the above, a return of at least 8% would be necessary to reach Rs 40 lakh within 20 years with your investment plan. Remember, this is just an estimate, and actual returns may vary significantly.

Using a SIP calculator:

For a more precise estimate, consider using a SIP calculator that factors in your investment details and desired return rate. Many online platforms offer such calculators.

Important factors to remember:

• Past performance is not indicative of future results. Mutual fund returns can fluctuate significantly depending on market conditions.
• Consider your risk tolerance. Equity funds offer higher potential returns but also carry greater risk. Choose a fund that aligns with your risk appetite.
• Seek professional advice. Consulting a financial advisor can help you create a personalised investment plan based on your 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.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 11, 2025

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My age is 36. 2k SIP in SBI CONTRA, 2k SIP in NIPPON and Rs 500 SIP in MOTILAL. Apart from this 2k investment in DIGITAL GOLD and around 60k per month investment in committee where I get 10% profit in 15 Months that's around 1L. Home EMI 14K and house hold expenses 25k. Through SIP is it possible to generate 1.5Cr in next 20 years ??
Ans: You have already started investing early through SIPs and that is appreciable. At 36, you have almost 20 years to let compounding work in your favour. Even small SIPs can create a meaningful future base. But to reach Rs. 1.5 Cr, you will need careful planning and disciplined execution.

» Assessing Your Present Investments
– Current SIPs are Rs. 4,500 per month across three equity mutual funds.
– You also invest Rs. 2,000 in digital gold.
– A committee contribution of Rs. 60k monthly is substantial, but it works like informal chit funds.
– EMI of Rs. 14k and household expenses of Rs. 25k show controlled lifestyle.

» Will Current SIPs Alone Reach Rs. 1.5 Cr?
– With just Rs. 4,500 per month, even 20 years of compounding may fall short.
– Rs. 1.5 Cr is possible, but not with this SIP amount alone.
– Increasing SIP amount consistently is the key to achieving the goal.
– Your income and committee contribution suggest more investible surplus is possible.

» Importance of Increasing SIP Step by Step
– Start with Rs. 4,500 but increase SIPs every year.
– Even a small 10 to 15% rise in SIPs each year can change the outcome.
– In 20 years, this step-up strategy can push your corpus closer to the target.
– Inflation also eats into value, so Rs. 1.5 Cr today will not be same after 20 years.

» Committee Investment Assessment
– Committee or chit funds are high risk and unregulated.
– Returns may look attractive, but safety is not guaranteed.
– Instead, this Rs. 60k can partly be channelled into disciplined SIPs in mutual funds.
– Mutual funds are regulated and professionally managed with better risk-adjusted growth.

» Digital Gold Allocation
– Rs. 2,000 monthly in digital gold adds diversification.
– But gold is not a wealth creator in long term.
– Gold is more a hedge against uncertainty, not for compounding growth.
– Restrict gold allocation to not more than 10% of portfolio.

» Mutual Funds Role in Your Goal
– Equity mutual funds are the best vehicle for long-term compounding.
– They deliver inflation-beating returns when held for 15–20 years.
– Avoid index funds because they only mirror the market.
– Actively managed funds with expert decisions have higher potential to create wealth.
– Investing through regular plans with Certified Financial Planner ensures discipline and monitoring.

» Managing Loans and Expenses
– Home EMI is manageable at Rs. 14k per month.
– Household expenses are modest at Rs. 25k.
– This gives enough room to save more once committee cycles end.
– Channel freed-up amounts into SIPs to fast track wealth creation.

» Insurance Protection
– You have not mentioned term insurance or health cover.
– At your age, it is vital to have adequate term insurance.
– At least 10 to 15 times your annual income should be covered.
– Health insurance ensures savings are not disturbed during medical emergencies.

» Emergency Fund Creation
– Keep 6 months of expenses aside in liquid assets.
– This protects SIPs from being stopped during sudden needs.
– Emergency fund avoids premature redemption of mutual funds.

» Tax Angle in Mutual Funds
– Long-term equity gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– Short-term gains taxed at 20%.
– Debt funds taxed as per income slab.
– A Certified Financial Planner can design a tax-efficient SWP later.

» Lifestyle and Discipline
– Your controlled expenses show financial maturity.
– But ensure no future big-ticket loans for vehicles or luxury spends.
– Every hike in income should be translated into higher SIP amounts.

» Strategy for Reaching Rs. 1.5 Cr
– Keep current SIPs running as base.
– Slowly divert committee funds into SIPs.
– Increase SIP amount by 10 to 15% yearly.
– Keep gold allocation limited.
– Build emergency fund and ensure insurance.
– Review SIP performance every year with Certified Financial Planner.

» Realistic Expectation of Wealth Creation
– Rs. 4,500 SIP for 20 years is not enough.
– But Rs. 15k to Rs. 20k monthly SIP with step-up plan can reach Rs. 1.5 Cr.
– Discipline and consistency matter more than timing.
– With your income and surplus, this is achievable.

» Finally
Your current SIPs are a good start, but alone they may not reach Rs. 1.5 Cr. By increasing SIPs regularly, reducing risky committee exposure, and adding more structured investments, you can comfortably achieve this goal in 20 years. Discipline, insurance cover, and tax planning will ensure smooth progress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 08, 2025Hindi
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Hi i am 40M. would request your help to understand what should be the corpus required for retirement as i want to get retired in next 3-5yrs. currently my take home is 2.3L monthly & my wife also works but leaving the job in next 2-3 months. we have a daughter 10yrs, currently i stay on rent and total monthly expense is 1.1L month. once i will retire we will shift in our own parental flat, where hopefully there will be no rent. current Investments 1. 50L in REC bonds getting matured in 2029 2. 42L in stocks 3. 17L in MF 4. 16L FD 5. 15L in PPF 6. 1.3L SIP monthly i do My Wife Investments 1. 30L corpus 2. flat with current value 40L and we get rental of 10K monthly. Please guide what should be the retirement corpus required combined to retire, assuming i need 75L for my daughter post grad and marriage and we would be requiring 75K monthly for our expenses after retiring
Ans: You have explained your income, goals, current assets, and future plans with great clarity. Your early planning spirit is strong. This gives a very good base. You can reach a peaceful retirement with smart steps in the next few years.

» Your Current Position

You are 40 years old. You plan to retire in 3 to 5 years. You earn Rs 2.3 lakh per month. Your wife also works but will stop working soon. You have one daughter aged 10. Your current monthly cost is around Rs 1.1 lakh. This cost will reduce after retirement because you will shift to your parental flat.

Your investment base is already good. You have saved in bonds, stocks, mutual funds, PPF, FD, and SIP. Your wife also has her own savings and rental income from a flat. All these create a good starting point.

This early base helps you plan stronger. It also gives room for more shaping. You are on the right road.

» Your Family Goals

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s higher education and marriage.

You want Rs 75,000 per month for family living after retirement.

You want to retire in 3 to 5 years.

You will shift to your parental flat after retirement.

You will have rental income of Rs 10,000 from your wife’s flat.

These goals are clear. They give direction. They allow a strong plan.

» Your Present Investments

Your investments include:

Rs 50 lakh in REC bonds maturing in 2029.

Rs 42 lakh in stocks.

Rs 17 lakh in mutual funds.

Rs 16 lakh in fixed deposits.

Rs 15 lakh in PPF.

Rs 1.3 lakh as monthly SIP.

Your wife holds:

Rs 30 lakh corpus.

A flat worth Rs 40 lakh with rent of Rs 10,000 each month.

Your combined net worth is healthy. This gives good power to build your retirement fund in the coming years.

» Understanding Your Expense Need After Retirement

You expect Rs 75,000 per month after retirement. This includes all basic needs. You will not have rent. That reduces cost. This assumption looks fair today.

Your cost will rise with inflation. So you must plan for rising needs. A strong retirement corpus must support rising cost for 40 to 45 years because you are retiring early.

An early retirement needs a large buffer. So you need safety along with growth. Your plan must include growth assets and safety assets.

» How Much Monthly Income You Will Need Later

Rs 75,000 per month is Rs 9 lakh per year. In future years, this cost can rise. If we assume steady rise, your future cost will be much higher.

So the retirement corpus must be designed to:

Give monthly income.

Beat inflation.

Support you for 40 to 45 years.

Protect your family even in market down cycles.

Allow flexibility if your needs change.

A strong retirement fund must support both safety and long-term growth.

» How Much Corpus You Should Target

A safe target is a large and flexible corpus that can support long years without running out of money. For early retirement, the usual thumb rule suggests a very high number. This is because you need income for many decades.

You need a corpus big enough to produce rising income. You also need a cushion for unexpected health costs, lifestyle shocks, and inflation changes.

Your target retirement corpus should be in a strong range. For your needs of Rs 75,000 per month and for goals like daughter’s education and marriage, you should aim for a combined retirement readiness corpus in the higher bracket.

A safe range for your family would be a very large number crossing multiple crores. This large range gives you:

Income safety.

Inflation protection.

Peace during market cycles.

Comfort in long life.

Room for daughter’s future.

Strong backup for health.

You are already on the way due to your existing assets. You will reach close to this range with systematic building over the next 3 to 5 years.

» Why You Need This Larger Corpus

You will retire early. That means more years of living from your corpus. Your corpus must not fall early. It must grow even after retirement. It must give monthly income and long-term family protection.

This is only possible when the corpus is strong and well-structured. A weak corpus creates stress. A strong corpus creates freedom.

Also, your daughter’s future cost must be kept aside. This must be parked in a separate fund. This must not touch your retirement money.

A strong corpus makes these two worlds separate and safe.

» Your Existing Assets and Their Strength

You already have good diversification:

Bonds give safety.

Stocks give growth.

Mutual funds give managed growth.

FD gives stability.

PPF gives tax-free long-term savings.

This blend is already a good start. But you need to make the blend more structured for early retirement.

Your Rs 1.3 lakh monthly SIP is also strong. It builds your future fast. You should continue.

Your wife’s rental income is small but steady. This adds strength.

Your combined financial base can reach your retirement target if you refine your allocation now.

» Your Daughter’s Future Fund Need

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s education and marriage. You should keep this goal separate from your retirement goal.

Your current SIP and future allocations should create a dedicated fund for this goal. A long-term fund can grow well when managed actively.

Do not mix this fund with your retirement needs. Mixing leads to shortage in old age. Always keep this corpus ring-fenced.

» A Strong Asset Mix For Your Retirement Path

A balanced mix is needed. You need growth assets to beat inflation. You also need stable assets for income.

You must avoid index funds because they do not give flexibility. Index funds follow a fixed index. They cannot make active changes in different markets. They cannot move to better stocks when markets change. They force you to stay in weak sectors for long. They also do not help you in down cycles because they cannot protect you by shifting to safer options. This can hurt retirement planning.

Actively managed funds are better because:

They give active asset selection.

They give scope for better returns.

They give flexibility to change sectors.

They give downside management.

They give access to a skilled fund manager.

They support long-term planning more safely.

Direct plans also carry risk. Direct plans do not give guidance. They do not give behavioural support. They do not give market timing help. They do not give portfolio shaping. They leave all the judgement to you. One mistake can cost years of wealth.

Regular plans with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner help you shape decisions. They help you remain disciplined. They help you avoid panic. They help you decide allocation changes at the right time. This saves wealth in long-term.

» How Your Investment Journey Should Grow in the Next 3–5 Years

Continue your SIP.

Increase SIP when your income rises.

Shift part of your stock holding into planned long-term mutual funds to reduce concentration risk.

Build a defined daughter’s education fund.

Keep a part of your REC bond maturity amount for long-term.

Avoid locking too much into fixed deposits for long periods.

Build a safety fund for one year of expenses.

This will create a full structure.

» Your Rental Income Role

Your rental income of Rs 10,000 per month is small but steady. Over time it will rise. This income will support your monthly cash flow after retirement.

You can use this for utilities or health insurance premiums. This gives a cushion.

» Your Emergency Buffer

You should keep at least one year of essential cost in a safe place. This can be in a liquid account or short-term fund. This protects you in shocks.

Since you plan early retirement, a strong buffer is important. It gives peace even in low months.

» A Structured Retirement Approach

A complete retirement plan for you should include:

A clear monthly income plan after retirement.

A corpus that can grow and protect.

A rising income system that matches inflation.

A separate daughter’s future fund.

A health cover plan for your family.

A tax-efficient withdrawal plan.

A market cycle plan to protect you in tough times.

This holistic approach keeps your family strong for decades.

» What You Should Build by Retirement Year

Your aim should be to reach a strong multi-crore range in investments before retirement. You already hold a large amount. You will add more in the next 3 to 5 years through SIP, stock growth, bond maturity, and disciplined saving.

Once you reach your target range, you can start the shifting process:

Move a part to stable assets.

Keep a part in long-term growth assets.

Create a monthly income strategy.

Keep a reserve bucket.

Keep a child future bucket.

Keep a long-term growth bucket.

This structure protects you in all market conditions.

» Final Insights

Your financial journey is already strong. You have a good income. You have saved well. You have multiple asset types. You have a clear timeline. And you have clear goals. This foundation is solid.

In the next 3 to 5 years, your focus should be on growing your combined corpus to a strong multi-crore range, keeping a separate fund for your daughter, reducing risk in unplanned assets, and building a stable long-term structure.

With the present path and a disciplined structure, you can retire peacefully and support your family with confidence for many decades.

Best Regards,

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

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

...Read more

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Samraat Jadhav  |2499 Answers  |Ask -

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

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Hello my name is saket, I monthly salary is 43k and my saving is zero. My Rent is 15 k and 10 k i send to my parents. How can i save money and investments.
Ans: 1. Your Current Monthly Numbers

Salary: Rs 43,000

Rent: Rs 15,000

Support to parents: Rs 10,000

Left with: Rs 18,000 for food, travel, bills, and savings

You have very little room, but saving is still possible if done smartly.

2. First Step: Build a Small Emergency Buffer

You must build Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 emergency money.
This protects you from taking loans for small issues.

How to build it:

Save Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 every month in a simple bank savings account

Do this for the next few months

Don’t touch it unless truly needed

3. Create a Mini Budget (Very Simple One)

Try this split from the remaining Rs 18,000:

Daily living (food + transport): Rs 10,000 – 11,000

Personal expenses (phone, internet, basics): Rs 3,000 – 4,000

Savings + investments: Rs 3,000 – 5,000

If this feels difficult, reduce food/transport costs by small adjustments.

4. Where to Invest Once You Have Emergency Money

(For minors: This is general education. For actual investing, get guidance from a trusted adult or family member.)

After you build emergency money, start small monthly investing.

You can begin with:

Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 SIP in a simple, diversified equity fund

Increase the SIP whenever salary increases or expenses reduce

Avoid complicated products.
Keep it simple.
Focus on consistency.

5. Easy Practical Ways to Increase Saving

These small moves help a lot:

Avoid food delivery

Use public transport as much as possible

Reduce subscriptions you don’t use

Fix a daily expense limit

Keep a separate bank account only for savings

Even Rs 200 saved daily = Rs 6,000 monthly.

6. Increase Income Slowly

Try small income boosters:

Weekend tutoring

Freelancing

Part-time projects

Selling old gadgets

Learning new skills for future salary growth

Even Rs 3,000 extra income changes your savings life.

7. Build the Habit First

The amount doesn’t matter in the beginning.
The habit matters more.

Even saving Rs 500 every month is better than zero.
Once salary grows, you will already know how to save.

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.

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