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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 23, 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 - Mar 25, 2024Hindi
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My spouse & I are in our mid thirties earning 3.5 Lakhs monthly. We both have medical insurance (from our employment) worth 7L each, long-term investments worth 10L. We underwent a major finacial crisis and are currently under a 10L debt. Our aim is to create a substantial retirement corpus and secure our child's future. How can we manage our finances effectively to achieve our goals, dependants include both our parents and our 1 year old son.

Ans: Navigating a financial crisis while planning for the future can be challenging but manageable with a strategic approach. First, prioritize clearing the 10L debt by setting a structured repayment plan. Consider consolidating debts or negotiating interest rates to ease the burden. Next, bolster your emergency fund to cover at least 6 months of living expenses. For retirement, start investing in diversified equity and debt funds systematically. Aim for a mix that aligns with your risk tolerance and time horizon. To secure your child's future, consider a mix of education and growth-oriented investments. Lastly, review and update your insurance coverage to protect your family adequately. Remember, consistent savings and disciplined investing are key to achieving your goals while supporting your dependents.
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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Financial Planner - Answered on Jan 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 19, 2024Hindi
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My wife and I would like to go for creating a retirement fund of Rs 20 crore in the next 30 years. We earn Rs 5 lakh per month together and are under 30. What are the best strategies for us for wealth creation and financial planning? We plan to have children in the next two years after we feel more secure about the job environment.
Ans: Creating a retirement fund of Rs 20 crore in 30 years is an ambitious goal, but with careful planning and disciplined savings, it's achievable, especially considering your young age and relatively high combined income.

Here are some strategies for wealth creation and financial planning:

Set Clear Financial Goals:

Define your short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial goals, including the Rs 20 crore retirement fund. This could include saving for a home, children's education, and other major expenses.

Emergency Fund:

Build an emergency fund equal to at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses. This fund provides a financial cushion in case of unexpected events, ensuring you don't need to dip into your long-term savings.

Life Insurance:

Consider purchasing life insurance to provide financial protection for your family, especially once you have children. Term insurance is a cost-effective option that can provide a high coverage amount.

Health Insurance:

Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance coverage for both you and your future family. Health emergencies can significantly impact your finances, and insurance can help mitigate these risks.

Investment Strategies:

Diversify your investments across various asset classes such as equities, debt, and potentially real estate. Given your long-term horizon, you can afford to take on some risk for potentially higher returns.

Equity Investments:

Consider investing in equity mutual funds or individual stocks for long-term growth. Historically, equities have provided higher returns over the long run.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs):

Use systematic investment plans to invest regularly in mutual funds. This approach ensures that you benefit from rupee cost averaging and can help manage market volatility.

Retirement Accounts:

Take advantage of retirement accounts like the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and the Public Provident Fund (PPF) for tax-efficient long-term savings.

Review and Adjust:

Periodically review your financial plan and make adjustments based on changes in income, expenses, and goals. Stay flexible and adapt your plan as needed.

Professional Advice:

Consider consulting with a financial advisor who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. They can help you create a customised financial plan and guide you on investment choices.

Remember that achieving a significant retirement fund requires discipline, consistent saving, and a long-term perspective. Starting early is a significant advantage, and regularly reassessing and adjusting your plan will help you stay on track to meet your financial goals.

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Moneywize

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Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 11, 2024Hindi
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We are a couple in our early 30s, jointly earning Rs 6 lakhs per month in India. Our goal is to build a substantial education fund for our future children while securing our own retirement. What financial strategies would you recommend for effective wealth creation and planning?
Ans: Given your joint income of Rs 6 lakhs per month and your goals of building a substantial education fund for your future children while securing your own retirement, here are some financial strategies you can consider for effective wealth creation and planning:

1. Budgeting and Expense Tracking: Start by creating a detailed budget that outlines your monthly income and expenses. Track your spending to identify areas where you can save and redirect funds towards your savings and investment goals.

2. Emergency Fund: Build an emergency fund that covers at least 3-6 months of living expenses. This fund will provide a financial safety net in case of unexpected events like job loss, medical emergencies, or major home repairs.

3. Education Fund: Open a dedicated education savings account or investment plan for your future children's education expenses. Consider investing in tax-efficient instruments like Public Provident Fund (PPF), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), or equity mutual funds specifically designed for education planning.

4. Retirement Planning: Start investing early in retirement accounts such as Employee Provident Fund (EPF), Public Provident Fund (PPF), or National Pension System (NPS) to secure your retirement. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to determine your retirement needs and develop a comprehensive retirement plan.

5. Asset Allocation: Diversify your investments across various asset classes such as equities, bonds, real estate, and fixed deposits to reduce risk and maximise returns. Determine your risk tolerance and investment horizon to create an appropriate asset allocation strategy.

6. Tax Planning: Take advantage of tax-saving investment options like Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS), National Pension System (NPS), and tax-saving fixed deposits to minimise your tax liability. Additionally, consider investing in tax-efficient instruments like Equity Mutual Funds for long-term wealth creation.

7. Regular Review and Rebalancing: Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Rebalance your portfolio as needed to maintain the desired asset allocation and optimise returns.

8. Insurance Coverage: Protect your family's financial future by purchasing adequate life insurance and health insurance coverage. Evaluate your insurance needs based on your current lifestyle, income, and future financial goals.

9. Continuous Learning and Education: Stay informed about personal finance and investment strategies through books, seminars, workshops, and online resources. Continuously educate yourself to make informed financial decisions and adapt to changing market conditions.

10. Seek Professional Guidance: Consider consulting with a certified financial planner or investment advisor to develop a personalised financial plan tailored to your specific goals, risk profile, and financial situation.

By implementing these strategies consistently and staying disciplined in your financial approach, you can effectively build wealth, secure your retirement, and achieve your long-term financial goals.

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Moneywize

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Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 22, 2024Hindi
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My partner and I, both under 35, have a combined monthly income of Rs 4.5 lakhs. We aspire to accumulate Rs 15 crores for retirement over the next 25 years. How can we optimize our financial planning to achieve this goal while also preparing for the costs associated with raising a family?
Ans: Aiming for a Rs 15 crore retirement corpus by the age of 60 is a commendable goal, and with careful planning and disciplined saving, it's definitely achievable. Here are some steps you can take to optimise your financial planning:

1. Estimate your retirement needs:

• Inflation: Consider a 7-8% inflation rate to adjust the Rs 15 crore to its future value at your retirement age.
• Lifestyle: Determine your desired retirement lifestyle and estimate monthly expenses.
• Healthcare: Factor in potential medical costs that may increase with age.

2. Analyse your current expenses:

• Track your monthly income and expenses to identify areas where you can save.
• Create a budget that allocates funds for essential needs, savings, and investments.

3. Maximise your savings:

• Increase your SIP contributions: Aim for a monthly investment of at least 50% of your surplus income after expenses.
• Explore various investment options: Diversify your portfolio across equity mutual funds (for long-term growth), debt funds (for stability), and PPF (for tax benefits and guaranteed returns).
• Employer-sponsored plans: Contribute the maximum to your Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and explore voluntary contributions.

4. Optimise your investments:

• Seek professional advice: Consult a certified financial planner for personalised investment recommendations based on your risk tolerance and goals.
• Rebalance your portfolio regularly: Maintain your desired asset allocation to manage risk and optimise returns.

5. Address family planning costs:

• Child planning: Start an SIP in a child plan to accumulate funds for education and other needs.
• Health insurance: Ensure adequate health insurance coverage for yourself, your partner, and any future children. Consider critical illness riders for additional protection.

Remember:

• Early start: Starting early gives your investments more time to grow through compounding.
• Discipline: Consistent saving and investing are crucial for achieving your goals.
• Review and adapt: Regularly review your plan and adjust your investments and savings as your income, expenses, and goals evolve.

Additional tips:

• Explore government schemes like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for girl child education and Atal Pension Yojana for retirement income.
• Consider freelancing or side hustles to increase your income.
• Reduce unnecessary expenses and adopt a mindful spending approach.
• Remember, this is a general framework, and consulting a financial advisor can provide personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances.

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Moneywize

Moneywize   |107 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 28, 2024Hindi
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My spouse and I are in our early 30s, earning Rs 7 lakhs monthly. Our aim is to create a substantial wealth reserve for our retirement and our children's future. How can we effectively manage our finances and investments to reach our financial goals?
Ans: Here are some steps you and your spouse can take to effectively manage your finances and investments towards your retirement and children's future:

1. Set SMART financial goals:

• Specific: Clearly define your goals. Instead of ‘substantial wealth’, aim for a specific target corpus (total amount) needed for retirement and children's education.
• Measurable: Track your progress by setting milestones with timelines, like saving a particular amount by a certain year.
• Attainable: Be realistic about your income and risk tolerance when setting targets.
• Relevant: Ensure your goals align with your family's needs and priorities.
• Time-bound: Set deadlines for achieving each goal, keeping short, medium, and long-term timelines in mind.

2. Create a budget and track expenses:

• List your monthly income (Rs 7 lakh) and all expenses (rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, transportation, entertainment, etc.).
• Categorise expenses as essential, discretionary, and debt.
• Utilise budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your income and expenses.
• Identify areas where you can cut back on discretionary spending.

3. Build an emergency fund:

• Aim for 3-6 months of your living expenses saved in a high-interest savings account for unexpected emergencies.

4. Prioritise debt repayment:

• Focus on paying off high-interest debt like credit cards before aggressively investing.
• Consider debt consolidation to lower your interest rate and simplify repayment.

5. Invest for the future:

• Employer-sponsored retirement plans: Contribute the maximum allowed to your company's retirement plan (like Provident Fund or National Pension System) to benefit from employer matching and tax advantages.
• Mutual funds: Invest in diversified mutual funds based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon. Consider seeking professional guidance for choosing suitable funds.
• Public Provident Fund (PPF): This government scheme offers tax-free returns and long-term investment benefits.
• Real estate (optional): Consider real estate as a long-term investment, but be aware of associated responsibilities and market fluctuations.

6. Seek professional financial advice:

• Consulting a certified financial planner can help you create a personalised financial plan considering your specific needs and risk tolerance.

Additional tips:

• Automate your finances: Set up automatic transfers for savings and investments to ensure consistent saving and reaching your goals faster.
• Review your financial plan regularly: Adjust your plan as your income, expenses, and life goals evolve.
• Stay informed: Educate yourselves about personal finance and investment options through reliable sources.

Remember, building wealth takes discipline, consistency, and patience. By following these steps and adapting them to your specific circumstances, you and your spouse can effectively manage your finances and work towards a secure future for yourselves and your children.

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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 10, 2024Hindi
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I was 47 years old and now i want to invest in MF and sip i want to invest 10 lakh lumpsum and 20000 sip , please guide
Ans: It's fantastic that you're considering mutual fund investments for your financial future. Let's craft a strategy to invest your lump sum amount of ?10 lakhs and set up a SIP of ?20,000 per month.

Investing the Lump Sum Amount
Diversification
Diversifying your lump sum investment is crucial to manage risk and maximize returns. Consider allocating the amount across different types of mutual funds based on your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Asset Allocation
Allocate a portion of your lump sum to equity funds for long-term growth potential. Additionally, allocate a portion to debt funds for stability and capital preservation.

Fund Selection
Choose funds with a proven track record of consistent performance and aligned with your risk profile. Opt for a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap equity funds, along with quality debt funds.

Setting Up SIPs
Monthly Contribution
A SIP of ?20,000 per month is a significant commitment and can help you achieve your financial goals over time. Ensure that the SIP amount is comfortably affordable and does not strain your monthly budget.

Fund Selection
Select SIPs in mutual funds that complement your lump sum investments. Maintain a diversified portfolio with exposure to various sectors and market caps to spread risk.

Consistent Investing
Commit to regular and disciplined investing through SIPs, regardless of market conditions. Stay invested for the long term to benefit from the power of compounding and rupee-cost averaging.

Monitoring and Review
Regular Assessment
Monitor the performance of your mutual fund investments periodically. Review your portfolio at least once a year and make adjustments if required based on changes in market dynamics or personal financial goals.

Rebalancing
Consider rebalancing your portfolio if the asset allocation deviates significantly from your target allocation. Realign your investments to maintain the desired risk-return profile.

Conclusion
By investing ?10 lakhs lump sum and setting up a SIP of ?20,000 per month in mutual funds, you're taking proactive steps towards building wealth for your future. Stay committed to your investment plan, and consult with a financial advisor if needed to ensure your investments are in line with your financial goals.

If you need further assistance or have any questions along the way, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you navigate your investment journey and achieve financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 14, 2024Hindi
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Dear sir, My elder bro invest in reliance equity opportunities fund dividend plan in Feb 2007. We have only hard copy of account statement. And agent was karvy stock broking Please suggest how to redeem all unit. Brother also invest in fidelity equity fund dividend option And Standard charted mutual fund G201 sccef growth Please advise how redeem all We also mail to karvy but no response from their end.pls suggest on this
Ans: I understand you're looking to redeem units across three mutual funds: Reliance Equity Opportunities Fund, Fidelity Equity Fund, and Standard Chartered Mutual Fund G201 SCC EF Growth. Here's how you can proceed:

1. Locate Account Statements:

Physical Statements: Check if there are account statements for all three funds. These statements should have folio numbers or account IDs crucial for redemption.
2. Contact Fund Houses Directly:

Nippon India Mutual Fund (Reliance): Since Reliance Equity Opportunities Fund is now managed by Nippon India Mutual Fund, visit their website (https://mf.nipponindiaim.com/) and look for the redemption section. You can initiate a redemption request online or download the redemption form.

Fidelity Mutual Fund: Search for Fidelity Mutual Fund's website and navigate to their redemption section. Similar to Nippon India, you should be able to redeem online or download a redemption form.

Standard Chartered Mutual Fund: Standard Chartered Mutual Fund merged with IDFC Mutual Fund in 2020. Visit the IDFC Mutual Fund website (https://www.idfclimited.com/our_businesses/idfc_mutual_fund.htm) and look for the redemption options for G201 SCC EF Growth scheme.

3. Contact Karvy as a Last Resort:

If you're unable to locate account statements or have trouble redeeming online, try contacting Karvy again. You can find their contact information on their website (https://cs.karvyonline.com/my-karvyonline1/portfolio/). However, since Karvy transferred its broking business to HDFC Securities in 2020, their responsiveness might be limited.
Additional Tips:

Investor KYC (Know Your Customer): Ensure your brother's KYC details are up-to-date with the fund houses. This might be required for processing the redemption.
Exit Load: Check if there are any exit loads applicable for redeeming the units. These are charges levied by the fund house for exiting the scheme before a specific time period.
Tax Implications: Dividends from mutual funds are taxable. Consider consulting a tax advisor for any tax implications arising from the redemption.
If you encounter any further difficulties, feel free to ask!

If you need personalized advice or assistance in structuring your investment portfolio, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you optimize your investments and achieve your financial objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 14, 2024Hindi
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I 35 year old and come under the category of 'professional' for income tax computation. I have been investing in mutual funds and have a corpus of 6 lakhs. Should I also invest in ppf, nps, FDs?
Ans: Considering your age and tax category as a 'professional', let's assess whether diversifying your investment portfolio with PPF, NPS, or FDs would be beneficial alongside your existing mutual fund investments.

Evaluating Investment Options
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds offer the potential for higher returns compared to traditional options like PPF, NPS, or FDs. They provide exposure to a diversified portfolio of stocks or bonds, suited to your risk profile and investment horizon.

PPF (Public Provident Fund)
PPF offers tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act and provides a guaranteed rate of return. It's a long-term investment option with a lock-in period of 15 years, offering safety and stability to your investment portfolio.

NPS (National Pension System)
NPS is a retirement-focused investment scheme with both equity and debt options. It offers tax benefits under Section 80CCD(1B) over and above the limit of Section 80C. NPS can be beneficial for building a retirement corpus, especially if you seek tax savings and long-term wealth accumulation.

FDs (Fixed Deposits)
FDs offer fixed returns over a specified period, providing stability to your portfolio. However, the returns may be relatively lower compared to mutual funds, PPF, or NPS. FDs can be suitable for short-term goals or as part of your emergency fund due to their liquidity.

Considerations for Your Portfolio
Risk Tolerance
Assess your risk tolerance and investment objectives before making any decisions. Mutual funds involve market risk but offer the potential for higher returns, whereas PPF, NPS, and FDs provide stability but may offer lower returns.

Tax Planning
As a 'professional', tax planning is crucial. Evaluate the tax benefits offered by PPF and NPS, along with the tax implications of your mutual fund investments. Choose investment avenues that optimize your tax liability while aligning with your financial goals.

Diversification
Diversifying your investment portfolio across different asset classes can mitigate risk and enhance returns. Consider a balanced approach by allocating funds to mutual funds for growth, PPF or NPS for tax-efficient long-term wealth accumulation, and FDs for stability and liquidity.

Conclusion
While mutual funds offer growth potential, diversifying your portfolio with PPF, NPS, or FDs can provide stability, tax benefits, and additional avenues for wealth accumulation. Evaluate your financial goals, risk tolerance, and tax planning requirements to make informed investment decisions.

If you need personalized advice or assistance in structuring your investment portfolio, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you optimize your investments and achieve your financial objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Dear Sir , I am S.K Sinha age 62 yrs having SIP as below Axis Blue chip fund - 1000/= Axis ELLS fund - 2000/= L & T mid cap fund - 1000/= ICICI prudential Value Discovery fund - 3000/= ICICI prudential Equity & Depth fund - 3000/= Mirae Asset Large cap fund - 2500/= Quant Active fund - 2000/= Parag Parikh Flexi Fund - 3000/= SBI cantra fund - 3000/= My wife age 56 yrs having below SIP Canara Robeco Emerging equity - 3000/= Mirac Asset Bl ue Chip Fund - 3000/= Nippon India Small cap fund - 1500/= SBI Technoloy Opportunities fund- 3000/= L & T Value India fund- 2000/= All the above SIP investments are from 2019 omward. Goal is for 1 cr in next 8 yrs. Request to pl evalulate and guid me further if there os any chsge is required in SIP
Ans: Dear Mr. Sinha,

Thank you for sharing your investment details. Let's evaluate your SIP portfolio and chart a path forward to help you achieve your goal of ?1 crore in the next 8 years.

Assessing Your SIP Portfolio
Diversification
Your portfolio demonstrates a good mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds across various sectors. This diversification helps spread risk and capture growth opportunities in different segments of the market.

Goal Alignment
Your goal of accumulating ?1 crore in 8 years is ambitious but achievable with the right strategy and disciplined investing.

Reviewing Fund Performance
We need to assess the performance of each fund to ensure they are aligned with your investment objectives and market conditions.

Potential Adjustments
Rebalancing
Reviewing your portfolio periodically is essential to maintain the desired asset allocation. We may need to rebalance your investments to ensure they align with your risk profile and financial goals.

Fund Selection
Some funds may underperform or may not be suitable for your current investment horizon. We may consider replacing them with better-performing alternatives.

Risk Assessment
Given your age and investment horizon, we need to assess the risk level of your portfolio and ensure it is appropriate for your stage in life and financial goals.

Recommendations
Consolidation
Consolidating your SIPs into fewer funds can simplify portfolio management and reduce administrative hassles. Focus on quality funds with consistent performance records.

Regular Review
Continue to review your portfolio at regular intervals to monitor fund performance and make necessary adjustments based on changing market conditions.

Tax Planning
Consider tax implications while making changes to your portfolio. Tax-efficient investment strategies can help maximize your returns over the long term.

Conclusion
Your SIP portfolio reflects a proactive approach towards wealth creation. By making strategic adjustments and staying disciplined, you can work towards achieving your financial goal of ?1 crore in the next 8 years.

If you need further assistance or personalized advice, feel free to reach out. I'm here to guide you through your financial journey and help you make informed decisions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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I have invested Rs.1 lakh in my wife's name who is a housewife in Mirae Asset Healthcare mutual fund in November 2018.Its present value is 3.3 lakhs.If it is redeemed what is the tax to be paid.Thanks in advance.
Ans: Tax Implications of Redeeming Mutual Fund Investment
Congratulations on the growth of your investment! Let's delve into the tax implications of redeeming your investment in Mirae Asset Healthcare mutual fund.

Understanding Capital Gains
When you redeem your mutual fund units, any profit you earn is considered capital gains and is subject to taxation. Capital gains are classified as either short-term or long-term based on the holding period.

Short-term Capital Gains
If you redeem your mutual fund units within three years of purchase, the resulting gains are considered short-term capital gains. These gains are added to your taxable income and taxed according to your applicable income tax slab rate.

Long-term Capital Gains
If you hold your mutual fund units for more than three years before redeeming, the gains are classified as long-term capital gains. Long-term capital gains on equity-oriented mutual funds are taxed at a flat rate of 10% without indexation benefits, provided the gains exceed ?1 lakh in a financial year.

Tax Calculation
In your case, since the investment was made in November 2018 and the present value is ?3.3 lakhs, the investment has been held for more than three years. Therefore, the gains would be classified as long-term capital gains.

The tax would be calculated as 10% of the gains exceeding ?1 lakh. Let's say your total gain is ?2.3 lakhs (?3.3 lakhs - ?1 lakh), then the taxable amount would be ?1.3 lakhs (?2.3 lakhs - ?1 lakh). So, the tax payable would be ?13,000 (10% of ?1.3 lakhs).

Mitigating Tax Liability
There are certain strategies to mitigate your tax liability:

Tax-saving Investments: Consider investing in tax-saving instruments like Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) or Public Provident Fund (PPF) to avail of deductions under Section 80C.

Tax Loss Harvesting: If you have other investments with capital losses, consider selling them to offset the capital gains from your mutual fund investment.

Conclusion
Redeeming your mutual fund investment entails tax implications based on the holding period and gains accrued. Understanding these implications can help you plan your finances effectively.

If you need further assistance in tax planning or investment strategies, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you navigate through your financial journey.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Hi, I'm 32now, i want to have money generated 30 lakh for the next 16 years, what SIPs are better for moderate risk
Ans: Generating ?30 Lakhs in 16 Years: A Moderate Risk Approach
You are 32 now and aiming to generate ?30 lakhs over the next 16 years. It is a commendable goal and certainly achievable with a disciplined approach.

Understanding your financial goals and risk appetite is crucial. For a moderate risk profile, Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in mutual funds offer a balanced approach.

Importance of SIPs
SIPs provide the benefit of rupee cost averaging. This means you invest a fixed amount regularly, buying more units when prices are low and fewer when prices are high. This smoothens the impact of market volatility over time.

Another advantage is the power of compounding. By investing regularly, your money has the potential to grow exponentially as returns themselves generate returns.

Asset Allocation for Moderate Risk
Diversifying your investments across different types of mutual funds can help manage risk. A combination of equity and debt funds is typically recommended for moderate risk profiles.

Equity Funds
Equity funds invest primarily in stocks. They have the potential for higher returns but come with higher risk. Within equity funds, consider a mix of large-cap and multi-cap funds. Large-cap funds invest in well-established companies, providing stability. Multi-cap funds invest across various market capitalisations, offering balanced growth.

Debt Funds
Debt funds invest in fixed income instruments like bonds. They provide stability and lower risk compared to equity funds. Consider including short-term and medium-term debt funds in your portfolio. These funds can offer steady returns and act as a cushion during market downturns.

Choosing Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have a fund manager who makes investment decisions based on market research. These funds aim to outperform the market and offer potentially higher returns.

Unlike index funds, which simply track a market index, actively managed funds seek to beat the index. This active management can provide better returns, especially in a volatile market.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential can be advantageous. MFDs offer regular funds which include a small commission. This commission incentivises them to provide continuous support and advice.

Regular funds also come with the benefit of personalised guidance. A CFP can help you adjust your investments based on changing market conditions and personal financial goals.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regular monitoring of your investments is essential. Market conditions and personal circumstances can change, affecting your investment strategy.

Rebalancing your portfolio periodically ensures that it remains aligned with your risk profile and financial goals. This involves adjusting the proportions of equity and debt funds to maintain the desired asset allocation.

Tax Efficiency
Mutual funds offer tax-efficient returns. Long-term capital gains from equity funds are taxed at 10% if the gains exceed ?1 lakh in a financial year. Debt funds, held for over three years, qualify for indexation benefits, reducing the tax burden on gains.

Conclusion
Investing in SIPs with a mix of equity and debt funds is a prudent approach for generating ?30 lakhs in 16 years. This strategy balances growth potential with stability, suited for a moderate risk profile.

Actively managed funds, chosen with the help of a Certified Financial Planner, can provide better returns and personalised advice. Regular monitoring and rebalancing of your portfolio will help you stay on track to meet your financial goal.

Congratulations on taking this important step towards your financial future. Your discipline and commitment to investing will surely pay off.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2519 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Recently saw a policy from Max which is giving 7.33 IRR is it a good deal planning to invest 3 lacs p.a
Ans: Investing in an insurance-cum-investment scheme, like the one offered by Max with a 7.33% Internal Rate of Return (IRR), can be appealing due to the dual benefits of insurance coverage and investment returns. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons compared to other investment options, such as mutual funds (MFs).

Evaluating the Max Policy
Guaranteed Returns: The 7.33% IRR is relatively attractive for a guaranteed return, especially in a low-interest-rate environment. It provides a predictable return over time, which can be beneficial for risk-averse investors.

Insurance Coverage: This type of policy provides life insurance coverage along with investment benefits. This can be useful if you need life insurance and prefer to combine it with an investment component.

Cost Structure: Insurance-cum-investment schemes typically have higher fees compared to MFs. These can include premium allocation charges, policy administration charges, and mortality charges. These fees can significantly reduce the net returns.

Flexibility and Liquidity: These plans often come with lock-in periods (usually 5 years for ULIPs) and less flexibility compared to MFs. Accessing funds before the lock-in period can incur penalties or surrender charges.

Comparing with Mutual Funds (MFs)
Potentially Higher Returns: Mutual funds, especially equity-oriented ones, have the potential to offer higher returns compared to guaranteed returns from insurance-cum-investment schemes. Over the long term, equity markets have historically outperformed fixed-return investments.

Lower Costs: MFs generally have lower expense ratios compared to the multiple fees associated with insurance plans. This can lead to better net returns for the investor.

Flexibility and Control: MFs offer greater flexibility with no lock-in periods (except for specific schemes like ELSS with a 3-year lock-in). Investors can switch between different funds, rebalance their portfolio, and withdraw funds more easily.

Focus on Investment Goals: If your primary goal is wealth accumulation, MFs allow you to tailor your investments to your risk appetite and financial goals. They provide a wide range of options from high-risk equity funds to low-risk debt funds.

Recommendations
Insurance Needs: If you need life insurance, consider buying a separate term insurance policy. Term insurance is more cost-effective and provides higher coverage compared to the insurance component of ULIPs or endowment plans.

Investment Goals: For growing your wealth, mutual funds might be a better choice due to their higher return potential, lower costs, and greater flexibility.

Combined Approach: If you prefer the convenience of a combined product and are satisfied with the 7.33% IRR, the Max policy could be suitable. However, ensure that you are comfortable with the lock-in period and the associated fees.

Conclusion
The Max policy with a 7.33% IRR offers a decent return for an insurance-cum-investment scheme, but it may not be the best option if your primary goal is investment growth. Evaluate your insurance needs separately and consider mutual funds for higher returns and better flexibility. Always align your investments with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

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

...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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