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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 15, 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
UmesH Question by UmesH on Jul 15, 2024Hindi
Money

hi i am umesh my monthly income is 28000 per month i have 2200000 investment in mutual fund that now 3250000 monthly sip 6000 my saving account is 77000 balance any suggestions for my future

Ans: Umesh,

First of all, I appreciate your dedication to saving and investing. With a monthly income of Rs 28,000 and a significant investment in mutual funds, you are on a good path.

Your mutual fund investment has grown from Rs 22,00,000 to Rs 32,50,000. This is impressive. It shows your discipline and commitment to building wealth. Your monthly SIP of Rs 6,000 also indicates a steady approach towards future goals.

With a saving account balance of Rs 77,000, you have some liquidity to handle emergencies or unforeseen expenses.

Analyzing Your Investment Strategy
Your current investments are in mutual funds. This is a wise choice, considering the potential for higher returns over the long term. Let's evaluate and assess your strategy.

Mutual Funds: You've seen significant growth in your mutual fund investments. This is encouraging and shows the potential of this investment vehicle. However, let's delve into the types of mutual funds you might consider.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform the market. Skilled fund managers select stocks they believe will perform well. This can lead to higher returns compared to passive funds.

Advantages:

Expertise: Fund managers use their expertise to pick the best stocks.
Flexibility: They can quickly adapt to market changes.
Research: They conduct thorough research to find investment opportunities.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Your monthly SIP of Rs 6,000 is a disciplined approach. It helps in averaging the purchase cost over time and reduces the impact of market volatility.

Advantages of SIP:

Disciplined Investing: Encourages regular saving.
Rupee Cost Averaging: Reduces market timing risks.
Compounding: Benefits from the power of compounding over time.
Saving Account Balance
Your saving account balance of Rs 77,000 provides liquidity. This is essential for emergencies. However, keeping too much in a savings account can be unproductive due to low interest rates.

Suggestions:

Emergency Fund: Keep three to six months' expenses in a savings account.
Short-Term Goals: Consider liquid funds or short-term debt funds for better returns.
Future Investment Strategies
Now, let's explore some strategies to enhance your future investments and achieve your financial goals.

Diversification
Diversification is key to managing risk. Ensure your portfolio includes a mix of asset classes.

Benefits:

Risk Reduction: Spreads risk across different assets.
Stable Returns: Balances out performance across various investments.
Growth Opportunities: Access to different market sectors.
Review and Rebalance
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your goals and risk tolerance.

Steps:

Annual Review: Assess your portfolio's performance yearly.
Adjust Allocations: Rebalance to maintain desired asset allocation.
Stay Aligned: Ensure investments match your financial objectives.
Retirement Planning
Planning for retirement is crucial. Aim to build a corpus that provides financial security during your non-working years.

Considerations:

Retirement Corpus: Estimate the amount needed for a comfortable retirement.
Retirement Funds: Invest in funds specifically designed for retirement.
Long-Term Growth: Focus on long-term growth to outpace inflation.
Insurance Coverage
Adequate insurance coverage is essential to protect your financial well-being. Ensure you have both life and health insurance.

Life Insurance:

Term Plan: Opt for a term plan with adequate coverage.
Family Protection: Ensure your family's financial security.
Health Insurance:

Comprehensive Plan: Choose a plan that covers all medical expenses.
Family Floater: Consider a family floater policy for overall coverage.
Tax Planning
Efficient tax planning can save you money and increase your overall returns. Utilize available tax-saving options.

Tax-Saving Investments:

Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS): Offers tax benefits under Section 80C.
Public Provident Fund (PPF): Long-term investment with tax benefits.
National Pension System (NPS): Tax-efficient retirement planning.
Education and Skill Development
Investing in education and skill development can enhance your earning potential and career growth.

Continual Learning:

Professional Courses: Enroll in courses that enhance your skills.
Certifications: Obtain certifications relevant to your field.
Workshops: Attend workshops and seminars for continuous learning.
Setting Financial Goals
Setting clear financial goals is vital for focused and disciplined investing.

Goal Setting:

Short-Term Goals: Define goals for the next 1-3 years.
Medium-Term Goals: Plan for goals 3-5 years ahead.
Long-Term Goals: Set long-term goals beyond 5 years.
Regular Monitoring
Regularly monitoring your investments ensures you stay on track to meet your goals.

Monitoring Steps:

Monthly Check: Review your portfolio's performance monthly.
Quarterly Review: Conduct a detailed quarterly review.
Annual Assessment: Evaluate overall progress annually.
Seeking Professional Advice
While you're making informed decisions, consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide additional insights and personalized advice.

Benefits of CFP:

Expert Guidance: Access to expert financial advice.
Comprehensive Planning: Tailored financial plans to meet your goals.
Holistic Approach: Consideration of all aspects of your financial life.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Avoid common investment mistakes to safeguard your financial future.

Common Mistakes:

Emotional Investing: Avoid making decisions based on emotions.
Lack of Diversification: Don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Ignoring Inflation: Consider the impact of inflation on your investments.
Final Insights
Umesh, your commitment to saving and investing is commendable. With thoughtful planning and disciplined investing, you can achieve your financial goals. Diversify your portfolio, review it regularly, and plan for retirement. Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage and efficient tax planning. Investing in education and skill development can enhance your career prospects.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice and holistic financial planning. Avoid common pitfalls and stay focused on your goals. Your financial future looks promising with the right strategies.

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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Hello sir, I earn monthly as 1.84 lakh.I spend 60% of my salary in living expense and 40% as savings I spend 11000 in mutual funds which include 5000 in HDFC balanced advantage fund, 2000 in eledweiss mutual fund,3000 in motilal oswal midcap fund direct growth. Have added step up of 20% in each one,also I spend 10000 in NPS and 5000 in PPF every month. This all saving I have started last year. My age is 40 currently. I have a target to generate 2 cr alteast till I reach 60. Will this be possible with this much investment or not, if not how much should I invest monthly. Also I am not able to have emergency fund. How should I manage my financial planning. Also what can be source of passive income. I not good in share market or digital marketing stuffs. Please suggest
Ans: It's great that you're actively saving and investing for your future. However, to achieve your goal of accumulating ?2 crore by the time you're 60, you may need to adjust your investment strategy and consider a few factors:

Emergency Fund: It's crucial to have an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies or job loss. Aim to save at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses in a liquid and easily accessible account.

Investment Allocation: While investing in mutual funds, consider diversifying your portfolio across different asset classes such as equity, debt, and hybrid funds to manage risk effectively. Also, review your investment choices periodically to ensure they align with your goals and risk tolerance.

Increasing Investments: To reach your target of ?2 crore by age 60, you may need to increase your monthly investments. Consider using a financial calculator or consulting a financial advisor to determine the monthly contribution required based on your expected rate of return and time horizon.

Passive Income Sources: Explore passive income streams such as rental income from real estate properties, dividends from stocks or mutual funds, or interest from fixed deposits or bonds. These sources can provide additional income without requiring active involvement.

Financial Planning: Consider consulting with a certified financial planner who can help you create a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation. They can also provide guidance on optimizing your investments and achieving financial security.

Remember, achieving long-term financial goals requires discipline, patience, and periodic review of your financial plan. By making informed decisions and staying committed to your goals, you can work towards building a secure financial future.

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Hi, I have 55k in hand salary and Im 27 currently. I have a car emi of 12500 a d other household and personal expenses of around 20k. I have 4 lakh in Mutual Funds, 5 lakh in shares and 4 lakh Cash in hand. In PF I have around 3 lakhs. What would be a good suggestion for my future? My expenses are sometimes more than my income as I'm the sole earner in family . For ex - I paid around 83k last month for my parents Health insurance. I'm right now able to manage my expenses somehow, but have to hinder my joys.
Ans: Your commitment to supporting your family while managing your finances responsibly is truly admirable. Let's explore strategic steps to secure your financial future and alleviate financial stress.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
Your detailed breakdown of income, expenses, and assets provides valuable insight into your financial landscape. It's commendable how you prioritize your family's well-being despite facing occasional financial challenges.

Analyzing Income and Expenses
Your monthly income of Rs. 55,000 covers essential expenses like car EMIs, household expenses, and personal expenses. However, occasional large expenses, such as health insurance premiums, can strain your budget.

Optimizing Assets and Investments
Your diversified investment portfolio comprising mutual funds, shares, cash reserves, and PF reflects a prudent approach to wealth management. Leveraging these assets strategically can help secure your financial future.

Future Planning Recommendations
Considering your circumstances, here are some tailored recommendations:

Emergency Fund: Building an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months of living expenses can provide a financial safety net during unexpected situations, reducing reliance on cash reserves.

Budgeting and Expense Management: Implementing a detailed budgeting strategy can help track expenses and identify areas where you can optimize spending, ensuring better financial stability.

Health Insurance Planning: While health insurance is essential, exploring options for more affordable premiums or seeking government schemes can help alleviate the burden of high healthcare costs.

Additional Income Sources: Exploring opportunities for additional income streams, such as freelance work or part-time employment, can supplement your primary income and ease financial strain.

Benefits of Professional Guidance
Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide invaluable guidance in optimizing your financial resources, identifying growth opportunities, and creating a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your goals and circumstances.

Conclusion
By implementing prudent financial strategies, optimizing expenses, and seeking professional guidance, you can work towards securing your financial future while still providing for your family's needs. Remember, small steps taken today can lead to significant financial stability tomorrow.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Hi sir i am 29 years old, with monthly income of 20k, follow are my investment 1)Quant Small Cap Mutual Fund -1000 2) Sbi pSu fund -1000, 3) Aditya Birla psu -500 and 4) motilal Oswal midcap( started this month). Also i have taken Tata Aia ulip - Rs. 2200 per month.(65 lakh Sum Assured with rider 50 lakh each for Accidental Death & Disability). Till now my total investment is Rs.60000(in sip). Ulip is 2 years old. Please advise me further for my future. Thank You,
Ans: You are taking early steps towards wealth creation. Investing at 29 gives you a strong advantage. Below is a detailed 360-degree approach to improve your financial planning.

Current Financial Position
Monthly Income – Rs.20,000
Mutual Fund SIPs – Rs.3,500
ULIP Premium – Rs.2,200 per month
Total SIP Investment Till Now – Rs.60,000
ULIP Policy – 2 years completed
ULIP Coverage – Rs.65 lakh sum assured
Rider Benefits – Rs.50 lakh each for accidental death & disability
Your savings habit is good, but your investment choices need optimisation.

Key Financial Goals
Build a strong emergency fund for unexpected expenses.
Increase investments while maintaining lifestyle stability.
Secure adequate insurance coverage with the right products.
Plan for long-term wealth creation with a structured approach.
Issues with Your Current Investments
1. Overexposure to Sectoral Funds
You have two PSU funds in your portfolio.
Sectoral funds carry higher risk due to limited diversification.
These funds may underperform for extended periods.
2. Small & Midcap Focus Without Balance
Your small-cap and mid-cap funds offer high growth but are volatile.
They should be balanced with large-cap or flexi-cap funds.
A well-diversified portfolio gives consistent and stable returns.
3. ULIP Is Not an Ideal Investment
ULIPs combine insurance and investment, which reduces overall returns.
Charges such as premium allocation, mortality, and admin fees lower investment growth.
Investment options in ULIP are limited compared to mutual funds.
A pure term plan + mutual fund SIP is a better alternative.
Since your ULIP is only 2 years old, consider surrendering it and reallocating funds.

Steps to Improve Your Investment Plan
1. Build an Emergency Fund First
Save at least 6 months' expenses in a separate bank account or liquid fund.
Avoid investing everything into market-based instruments.
This will protect you from financial stress during emergencies.
2. Increase SIP Contributions Gradually
Your current SIP is less than 20% of your income.
Increase SIPs as your income grows.
Aim for at least 30-40% investment allocation over time.
3. Diversify Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
Avoid excess exposure to PSU and sectoral funds.
Add large-cap or flexi-cap funds for balance.
Continue small-cap and mid-cap investments, but with controlled allocation.
Invest through Certified Financial Planner (CFP) & MFD for expert guidance.
4. Replace ULIP with a Pure Term Plan
A Rs.1 crore term plan will provide better coverage at a lower cost.
Redirect the ULIP premium into mutual funds for higher growth.
You will get better life protection and wealth accumulation separately.
5. Set Clear Long-Term Goals
Decide on major financial milestones like home purchase, retirement, etc.
Align investments with each goal's time horizon.
Follow a disciplined long-term investment strategy.
Final Insights
Increase your SIPs systematically as income grows.
Maintain a diversified portfolio instead of sector-heavy funds.
Surrender the ULIP and switch to a term plan + mutual fund strategy.
Secure an emergency fund before increasing risk exposure.
By following these steps, you will achieve financial stability and long-term wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Hi Mam, Hope you are doing well. I am very worried about my son who is now 12.5 years old and studying in 7th standard in a very reputed school. Since childhood, he has no interest in studies, unless we doesn't seat in front of him, he doesn't study. Every teacher from his kindergarten days upto now has the same complaint that he is doesn't pay attention in class and the result is he doesn't get good marks in the exam. When we scold him for studies, he does it for that particular time only and then get back to his non-interest mode again and start to run from studies. He will play video games, goes to play around with his friends, he will find some or the other reason for not doing studies or homework. The irony is that he is not interested in any sports or any other kind of activities. In every summer holidays, we make him to join some sports or music classes, but there also he doesn't show interest and do things just for the sake of showing. From last year, we have started sending him to tuitions also, but no change in attitude. This year we have found a teacher of his reputed school who is retired and taking tuitions, we are sending him to her and she is charging a big amount for tuitions. please guide how can we change his attitude and make him more serious in any activity he does as he doesn't have interest in anything (we have observed doing everything we can).
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I am doing great, thank you for asking, God bless you!

I can totally understand when you say you are worried.

Your son is 12.5, he will soon be a teenager. There will be different challenges, I want you to read up on parenting a teenager and be ready to handle him well.

The problem as I see it is that everyone of you, his teachers included have made studies like a burden for him.... and subjected the young child to a lot of anxiety, he just wants to run away form it....
"Every teacher from his kindergarten days upto now has the same complaint that he is doesn't pay attention in class".... this statement of yours... it is the teacher's duty to ensure the child listens to him/her, how can she start labeling a child like this. From a young age your son has been conditioned to believe that he is not not good in studies, he doesn't focus and he doesn't sit in one place. All my sympathies are with your son...every child comes with immense potential and it's our duty as parents and teachers to nurture the child.

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4. choose a teacher, who can get along with him and help him develop a positive attitude towards studies and life in general
5. look for a school where they nurture him... not just a reputed one...less number of students and a teacher who is invested in her/ his students,

If you can connect with me, I can help him. Have had many a students in this kind situation.
This is my website..
https://transformme.co.in/

Loads of best wishes to the whole family..

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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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