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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8103 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 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
Suraj Question by Suraj on Apr 14, 2024Hindi
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Like sukanya samridhi yojna for girl Any boy scheme like that with guarented income is there ? Kindly reply What is the best way to invest in gold as gold rates have already been increased. When and how to invest in gold. Best insurance policy for me of age 36 till my retirement.

Ans: It's great that you're exploring investment options for your child's future and seeking ways to secure your own financial well-being. Let's address each of your queries:

For your son's future, there isn't a scheme exactly like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, which is specific to girls. However, you can explore various government-backed savings schemes or investment plans that offer guaranteed returns. These may include schemes like Public Provident Fund (PPF) or fixed deposits. Consult a Certified Financial Planner to find the best fit for your needs and goals.

As for investing in gold, it's true that gold rates have been on the rise. While timing the market perfectly is challenging, you can still invest systematically over time through methods like gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) or gold savings funds. These allow you to invest in gold without physically owning it, offering liquidity and convenience. Regular investment, regardless of current rates, can help mitigate the risk of market volatility.

When considering insurance, it's important to assess your needs and priorities. At 36, you may opt for a term insurance plan that provides coverage until your retirement age. Term plans offer high coverage at affordable premiums, ensuring financial protection for your family in case of unfortunate events. Look for plans with riders like critical illness or accidental death benefit for comprehensive coverage.

Remember to review your insurance needs periodically to ensure they align with your changing circumstances.

Investing and securing your future require careful planning and informed decisions. Consult a Certified Financial Planner to tailor strategies that suit your financial goals and risk tolerance.

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.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8103 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 23, 2024

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Good morning sir,I had two sons one son age is 26 he invest sip 3000 monthly who working software professional,his net salary 26000/his retirement age 55,I like 1lakh pension at the time, another my age is 63 I invest sip 9000 monthly already 4lakhs in my sip at the age of 70 what amount I get,my wife is govt employe her net salary 95000/she purchase gold this gold investment is good or suggest good one, please answer this
Ans: Good morning!

It's wonderful to hear that both you and your son are taking steps towards securing your financial futures. Let's break down each of your situations:

For your son, starting SIPs at a young age is a smart move. With his current investments and assuming a modest annual return, he has the potential to accumulate a significant corpus by his retirement at age 55. However, to achieve a pension of 1 lakh per month, he might need to increase his investments or diversify into other financial instruments.

As for you, with 4 lakhs already invested and an additional 7 years of SIPs, your corpus at age 70 will depend on the rate of return. It's essential to ensure that your investments align with your risk tolerance and financial goals for retirement.

Regarding your wife's investment in gold, while gold has traditionally been seen as a safe-haven asset, it's essential to diversify investments. Consider exploring other options like mutual funds, fixed deposits, or government savings schemes for a balanced portfolio.

Remember, financial planning is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It might be beneficial to consult a financial advisor who can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances. This journey towards financial well-being is a marathon, not a sprint, and every step taken today brings you closer to your goals.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8103 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2024Hindi
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Sir i am 52 years .Now my salary is 1 lakh .i want to purchase gold 6 lakh or invest in mutual fund or FD in sbi pl guide
Ans: Assessing Your Financial Goals and Current Situation
At the age of 52, planning for financial security is crucial. Your current salary of Rs 1 lakh per month is substantial. Your goal to invest Rs 6 lakh wisely is commendable. Let’s explore the options of purchasing gold, investing in mutual funds, and opting for a fixed deposit (FD) with SBI. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. I will guide you through these to help you make an informed decision.

Purchasing Gold
Gold is traditionally considered a safe investment. It acts as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation.

Advantages:

Inflation Hedge: Gold often retains value even when inflation rises.

Liquidity: Gold can be easily sold in the market whenever needed.

Tangible Asset: Holding physical gold provides a sense of security.

Disadvantages:

No Regular Income: Gold does not provide interest or dividends.

Storage and Security: Keeping physical gold requires safe storage.

Price Volatility: Gold prices can be volatile and may not always increase.

Purchasing gold can be part of a diversified portfolio, but relying solely on gold may not be the best strategy for growth.

Investing in Mutual Funds
Mutual funds pool money from many investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities. They are managed by professional fund managers.

Advantages:

Professional Management: Certified Financial Planners manage funds, making informed decisions.

Diversification: Mutual funds invest in a variety of assets, reducing risk.

Potential for High Returns: Equity mutual funds have historically provided higher returns than gold or FDs.

Liquidity: Mutual funds can be easily bought or sold.

Disadvantages:

Market Risk: Mutual fund returns are subject to market fluctuations.

Management Fees: There are costs associated with fund management.

No Guaranteed Returns: Unlike FDs, mutual funds do not guarantee returns.

Given your age, consider balanced or hybrid mutual funds. These funds invest in both equities and debt, providing a balance of risk and return.

Fixed Deposit (FD) in SBI
Fixed Deposits (FDs) are a popular investment option for risk-averse investors. SBI offers competitive interest rates on FDs.

Advantages:

Safety: FDs are considered one of the safest investment options.

Guaranteed Returns: The interest rate is fixed and guaranteed.

Predictable Income: FDs provide regular interest payouts.

Disadvantages:

Lower Returns: FD returns are generally lower compared to mutual funds.

Inflation Impact: Returns may not always beat inflation.

Premature Withdrawal Penalty: Withdrawing funds before maturity can attract penalties.

FDs are suitable for conservative investors who prioritize capital protection over high returns.

Evaluating Your Risk Tolerance
Your risk tolerance is a key factor in deciding where to invest. At 52, you may want a mix of safety and growth.

High Risk Tolerance:

Consider Equity Mutual Funds: They offer higher returns but come with higher risk.
Moderate Risk Tolerance:

Balanced Mutual Funds: A mix of equities and debt for moderate returns with balanced risk.
Low Risk Tolerance:

Fixed Deposits and Gold: These provide safety and steady returns but with lower growth potential.
Recommendations
Based on the above analysis, here are my recommendations for you:

Primary Recommendation: Invest in Mutual Funds

Balanced Mutual Funds: These funds offer a good mix of safety and growth.

Professional Management: Managed by Certified Financial Planners, ensuring informed decisions.

Diversification: Reduces risk by spreading investments across various assets.

Secondary Recommendation: Fixed Deposits for Safety

Allocate a Portion to FDs: Ensure safety and guaranteed returns for a part of your investment.
Tertiary Recommendation: Small Allocation to Gold

Hedge Against Inflation: A small portion in gold can protect against inflation and currency risks.
Conclusion
Investing Rs 6 lakh requires careful consideration of your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Mutual funds, especially balanced ones, offer a good blend of growth and safety. FDs can provide guaranteed returns and capital protection. A small allocation to gold can hedge against inflation. This diversified approach will help secure your financial future while providing potential for growth.

Thank you for seeking my guidance. I appreciate your thoughtful approach to planning for your future. Feel free to reach out for further personalized advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Mayank

Mayank Chandel  |2108 Answers  |Ask -

IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Mar 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 14, 2025Hindi
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Hi Mayank, My son has specific learning disability and have pwd certificate with more than 40% benchmark, he is very good in maths and logical reasoning but very poor at language portion, he has recently given JEE, there is probability of getting in government funded college, but my concern is wheather he will be able to tackle the pressure of college, I have discussed with my son regarding the various options as he is very keen on computer science, I wanted to know what are the various options available with gim so that he can lead a successful life, he is hard working and open to many ideas, thanks in advance.
Ans: Hello Sir,
It's great that your son is hardworking and open to different ideas! Given his strong aptitude for math and logical reasoning.
Here are some options.

Government-Funded Colleges (IITs, NITs, IIITs, GFTIs): If he qualifies for these, he will get support under the PWD category, including extra time in exams, scribes (if needed), and relaxation in certain academic criteria.
Private Universities (BITS, IIIT-H, Ashoka, Shiv Nadar, Plaksha, etc.): Some private institutions offer excellent CS programs with flexible learning environments.
Specialized Accommodations: Many colleges provide support like extra tutoring, note-taking assistance, language support, and mental health counseling.

Regarding Coping with College Pressure:

Choosing the Right College: Look for institutions that offer strong disability support and a friendly learning environment.

Developing Learning Strategies: Text-to-speech tools, structured note-taking apps, and assistive learning technologies can help.

Seeking Mentors & Support Groups: Connecting with peers or seniors who faced similar challenges.

Internships & Hands-on Learning: Real-world projects can build confidence and skills outside academic pressure.

Alternative CS Education Paths
Online Degrees (IIT Madras BSc in Data Science, Georgia Tech MS Online, etc.): A flexible option if he prefers self-paced learning.
Coding Bootcamps (Scaler, Masai, Pesto, Newton School, etc.): Fast-track career-focused programs.
Open-Source Learning (CS50, MIT OCW, Udemy, Coursera, etc.): Helps in skill-building without the pressure of formal college exams.

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4336 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Mar 16, 2025

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My son got 97.56 in general category. Any chances of getting cse at NIT. Regards
Ans: Sitansu Sir, Here is, How to Predict Your Son's Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main Results – A Step-by-Step Guide

Once the January JEE Main session results are declared, many students and JEE applicants start asking common questions about eligibility for specific institutes (NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, etc.) based on their percentile, category, preferred branch, and home state.

Providing precise admission chances for each student can be challenging. Some reputed educational websites offer ‘College Predictor’ tools where you can check possible college options based on your percentile, category, and preferences. However, for a more accurate understanding, here’s a simple yet effective 9-step method using JoSAA’s past-year opening and closing ranks. This approach gives you a fair estimate (though not 100% exact) of your admission chances based on the previous year’s data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Admission Chances Using JoSAA Data
Step 1: Collect Your Son's Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your Son's JEE Main percentile
Your Son's category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
His Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
HIs Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Your Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories.
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch your son is interested in.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Son's Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.
Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your son's expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engieering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your Son's admissions!

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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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