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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 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
Nand Question by Nand on Apr 11, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir , I would like to invest 6000 per month and iam 38 years old and by retirement u would like to get corpus fund of 2 crore, sir can you suggest me where to invest and reach my goal

Ans: It's great that you're planning for your retirement at 38. Let's explore your investment options to reach your goal of a 2 crore corpus:

• Start with SIPs: Since you're looking to invest 6000 per month, Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in mutual funds are a smart choice. SIPs offer the benefit of rupee cost averaging and can help you build wealth over time.

• Asset Allocation: Given your age and long-term investment horizon, consider a diversified portfolio comprising equity and debt funds. Equity funds offer growth potential, while debt funds provide stability.

• Equity Mutual Funds: Allocate a significant portion of your SIPs to equity mutual funds. These funds invest in stocks and have the potential to generate higher returns over the long term. Look for funds that have a track record of consistent performance and align with your risk tolerance.

• Debt Mutual Funds: To balance risk, consider allocating a portion of your SIPs to debt mutual funds. These funds invest in fixed-income securities like bonds and offer relatively stable returns. They can provide a cushion during market downturns.

• Review and Adjust: Regularly review your investment portfolio and make adjustments as needed. As you approach retirement, consider gradually shifting your allocation from equity to debt to reduce volatility and preserve capital.

• Consider Tax-saving Funds: If you haven't already, explore Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS), also known as tax-saving funds. These funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act while providing exposure to equity markets.

• Consult a Certified Financial Planner: Seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable insights into structuring your investment portfolio and achieving your retirement goals. They can assess your risk profile, investment horizon, and financial objectives to tailor a plan that suits your needs.

• Stay Disciplined: Consistency is key to long-term investing success. Stick to your SIPs even during market fluctuations and avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market movements.

• Monitor Progress: Keep track of your investment performance and periodically reassess your progress towards your retirement goal. Adjust your strategy as necessary to stay on track and maximize returns.

By following these steps and staying committed to your investment plan, you can work towards achieving your retirement goal of a 2 crore corpus. Remember, investing is a journey, and patience and discipline are essential for success.
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  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

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Hi Dev I am retired and aged 58. I have a corpus of 2 crores. How do i invest ( in which funds specifically) so that i get 2lakhs per month with immediate start. Please guide.
Ans: Planning for retirement income is crucial, especially with a significant corpus like yours. Here's a strategy to generate 2 lakhs per month with your 2 crores corpus:

Dividend-Paying Mutual Funds: Consider allocating a portion of your corpus to mutual funds that focus on dividend-paying stocks or bonds. Look for funds with a track record of consistent dividend distributions. These funds can provide regular income through dividend payouts. However, keep in mind that dividends are not guaranteed and may vary based on market conditions and fund performance.
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Set up a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) with a combination of debt funds, balanced funds, and liquid funds. SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly from your investments while keeping the principal amount invested. Choose funds that prioritize capital preservation and have a history of providing steady returns. Adjust the withdrawal amount periodically based on your income needs and investment performance.
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): Consider investing a portion of your corpus in the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) offered by the government. SCSS provides regular interest payouts, usually on a quarterly basis, at attractive rates. It's a safe option for generating stable income, especially for retirees.
Annuity Plans: Explore annuity plans offered by insurance companies. Annuity plans allow you to convert a lump sum amount into a series of regular payments, providing you with a guaranteed income stream for a specified period or for life. Annuities offer security and peace of mind by providing a fixed income irrespective of market fluctuations.
Fixed Deposits (FDs) and Bonds: Consider allocating a portion of your corpus to fixed deposits (FDs) and bonds to diversify your income sources. While FDs and bonds offer lower returns compared to mutual funds and equities, they provide stability and safety of capital. Look for FDs and bonds with competitive interest rates and varying maturities to create a laddered income stream.
Before making any investment decisions, it's essential to assess your risk tolerance, liquidity needs, and income requirements. Consider consulting with a certified financial planner who can provide personalized advice based on your financial situation and retirement goals.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 28, 2024Hindi
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Hi Dev, I am 29 years old and have a monthly income of 20K. I am already investing in MF and want to achieve a corpus fund of 5 crores by the age of 50 for my retirement. Please advise on how to invest
Ans: I understand your aspirations for a secure retirement and commend you for your proactive approach to financial planning. It's wonderful to see your commitment to securing a comfortable future for yourself.

With a monthly income of 20K, you're off to a good start. To achieve a corpus fund of 5 crores by the age of 50, it's essential to strategize your investments wisely.

Diversification is key to mitigating risks and maximizing returns. While you're already investing in mutual funds, it's prudent to explore other avenues like equities, debt instruments, and perhaps even alternative investments.

Considering your age and risk appetite, a balanced portfolio with a mix of equity and debt instruments would be suitable. Equity investments offer the potential for higher returns over the long term, while debt instruments provide stability and steady income.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend actively managed funds over index funds. Actively managed funds have the advantage of professional fund managers who actively select investments, aiming to outperform the market.

Avoiding direct funds and opting for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner can provide you with personalized guidance and ongoing support, ensuring your investments align with your financial goals.

Remember to review and adjust your portfolio periodically to accommodate changes in your life circumstances and market conditions. And most importantly, stay disciplined and patient, as wealth accumulation is a gradual process.

Keep up the excellent work, and you'll be well on your way to achieving your retirement goals.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 08, 2024Hindi
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Hi, i have 70 Lakhs corpus fund in my account. Im investing 10k every month in quant small cap and nippon small cap fund in each. Where can I invest 70lakhs so tht i get 35k per month for my monthly expenses.
Ans: With a corpus of 70 lakhs and the objective of generating 35k per month for expenses, let's devise a sustainable income-generating strategy while ensuring prudent wealth management.

Income Generation Strategy
Dividend Yield Funds: Consider allocating a portion of your corpus to dividend yield funds, which invest in stocks that pay regular dividends. These funds can provide a steady stream of income while offering the potential for capital appreciation.

Debt Funds: Invest a portion of your corpus in debt funds, which primarily invest in fixed-income securities like bonds and government securities. Debt funds offer stable returns with lower volatility, making them suitable for income generation.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Implement SWP in equity and hybrid funds to systematically withdraw a fixed amount each month. This allows you to benefit from potential capital appreciation while receiving regular income.

Portfolio Allocation
Equity and Debt Allocation: Strike a balance between equity and debt investments to manage risk while aiming for sustainable income. Consider allocating around 30-40% of your corpus to equity funds and the remaining to debt funds.

Diversification: Diversify your portfolio across various asset classes and fund categories to mitigate risk and enhance stability. Opt for a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap equity funds along with diversified debt funds.

Professional Guidance
Consult a Certified Financial Planner to tailor an investment strategy aligned with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and income requirements. They can help you optimize your portfolio for income generation while ensuring long-term wealth preservation.

Regular Review
Periodically review your investment portfolio and adjust your strategy as needed based on changes in market conditions, financial goals, and income requirements. Regular monitoring ensures that your portfolio remains on track to meet your financial objectives.

Conclusion
By adopting a balanced approach to asset allocation and leveraging various investment avenues, you can effectively generate a monthly income of 35k from your corpus fund while safeguarding its long-term growth potential. Seeking professional guidance and regularly reviewing your portfolio are key to achieving financial security and stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 20, 2024

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right now I am 52 year old & retire within 6years, I ready to invest Rs.1lkh per month & corpus has to be want after my retirement Rs.3cr.is it possible! if Yes then tell me where I should I invest in MF/shares/PPF/FD/NPS/
Ans: At 52, with six years until retirement, your goal of accumulating a Rs. 3 crore corpus is ambitious but achievable. With a disciplined investment of Rs. 1 lakh per month, you can work towards this target. The key is choosing the right investment vehicle to maximise your returns while managing risks.

Why Mutual Funds Are Ideal for Your Goal

Among the available options—Mutual Funds, Shares, PPF, FD, and NPS—mutual funds stand out as the best choice for your goal. Here’s why:

Potential for High Returns: Mutual funds, especially equity mutual funds, have historically provided returns that outpace inflation and other investment options like PPF, FD, or even NPS. Over a six-year period, equity mutual funds could deliver an average annual return of 10-12%, which is crucial for reaching your Rs. 3 crore target.

Flexibility and Diversification: Mutual funds offer a diversified portfolio across sectors and companies, reducing the risk associated with investing in individual stocks. This diversification is important, especially as you approach retirement, to ensure your investment is protected from market volatility.

Systematic Investment Approach: With mutual funds, you can benefit from a systematic investment plan (SIP) or a lump-sum investment strategy. In your case, investing Rs. 1 lakh per month through SIPs ensures rupee cost averaging, which helps mitigate market timing risks.

Steps to Achieve Your Rs. 3 Crore Goal

Focus on Equity Mutual Funds:

Equity Focus: Given your six-year horizon, a significant portion of your monthly Rs. 1 lakh investment should be allocated to equity mutual funds. These funds are designed to grow your wealth over the long term, and even within six years, they can generate substantial returns.

Balanced Allocation: To manage risk as you approach retirement, consider starting with 80% in equity mutual funds and 20% in debt mutual funds. As you get closer to retirement, gradually shift a portion of your equity investments to safer debt funds. This will protect your gains while still offering growth.

Reinvest Your Returns:

Compounding Effect: Keep your returns reinvested within the mutual funds. This will enhance the power of compounding, where your returns start generating their own returns, accelerating your wealth accumulation.
Regular Monitoring:

Performance Review: Although mutual funds are managed by professionals, it’s important to review the performance of your funds regularly. This ensures that your investments are aligned with your retirement goal.

Portfolio Rebalancing: As you get closer to retirement, consider rebalancing your portfolio to reduce exposure to equities and increase allocation to debt funds. This reduces the risk of a market downturn affecting your retirement corpus.

Avoid Unnecessary Withdrawals:

Stay Invested: To achieve your Rs. 3 crore goal, it’s essential to stay invested for the full six years. Avoid unnecessary withdrawals that could derail your plan.
Why Not Other Investment Options?

Shares: Direct stock investments can be volatile and require active management. Given your limited time frame and retirement goal, the risks associated with shares might outweigh the benefits.

PPF: Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a safe investment, but it offers lower returns (around 7-8%) compared to equity mutual funds. PPF is better suited for long-term safety rather than aggressive growth.

FD: Fixed Deposits (FDs) provide guaranteed returns but are also lower (5-6% on average) compared to mutual funds. FDs are more appropriate for capital preservation rather than growth.

NPS: The National Pension Scheme (NPS) offers tax benefits and a mix of equity and debt, but its structure is more suited for long-term retirement planning rather than aggressive wealth accumulation in a short period like six years.

Final Insights

Given your retirement goal of Rs. 3 crores and a six-year timeline, investing Rs. 1 lakh per month in mutual funds, with a focus on equity, is the most effective strategy. This approach balances potential returns with risk management, offering you the best chance of achieving your desired corpus.

Avoid direct investments in shares, PPF, FD, or NPS, as these options either carry higher risks or offer lower returns. By sticking with a disciplined mutual fund investment strategy and regularly reviewing your portfolio, you can confidently work towards your retirement target.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 23, 2025

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Hi Sir, I started a SIP of 3k from 3months investing in Nipon India Small Cap fund. I started investing via \xis bank mobile app. Please suggest me if thats the safe way to do through bank app. And I am willing to start another SIP of 3k per month. Planning to do it on groww app. Please suggest some good SIP plans and guide me on how good and safe to start via groww app.
Ans: I appreciate your early step into disciplined investing.
Starting SIPs shows long-term thinking.
Beginning small builds confidence and learning.
Your willingness to ask questions is healthy.

» Your Current SIP Action Review
– You started SIP of Rs 3,000 monthly.
– SIP duration is three months.
– Investment is through a bank mobile app.

This shows good initiative.
Early habits shape future wealth.

» Understanding Your Chosen Fund Category
– The fund belongs to small-sized companies category.
– Such funds are high risk.
– Such funds give high volatility.

Returns can be uneven yearly.
Patience is very important here.

» Suitability Of Small Company Funds
– Small companies grow faster sometimes.
– They also fall harder during corrections.
– Not suitable as first-only investment.

Exposure should be limited initially.
Balance is essential.

» Starting Early
– You started without waiting for perfection.
– Many delay investing unnecessarily.
– Action matters more than perfection.

This mindset helps long-term success.

» Risk Awareness Is Necessary
– Small company funds fluctuate sharply.
– Short-term losses are common.
– Emotional control is required.

Three months is too short to judge.
Time horizon should be long.

» Minimum Suggested Time Horizon
– Such funds need at least seven years.
– Shorter periods cause disappointment.
– SIP helps reduce timing risk.

Consistency matters more than returns initially.

» Bank App As Investment Platform
– Bank apps are generally safe.
– Transactions are regulated.
– Holdings are stored with registrars.

Platform safety is not the main risk.
Investment choice matters more.

» Limitations Of Bank Apps
– Limited guidance provided.
– Product pushing is common.
– Advice is not personalised.

Banks focus on convenience.
Planning depth is usually missing.

» Bank Staff Support Limitations
– Staff change frequently.
– Knowledge levels vary.
– Long-term accountability is absent.

This affects continuity of advice.

» Safety Of Investments Versus Platform
– Funds are held in your PAN.
– Platform failure does not erase investments.
– Units remain safe with fund house.

So platform safety fear is minimal.
Decision quality matters more.

» Planning Another SIP Thought
– You want another Rs 3,000 SIP.
– Total SIP becomes Rs 6,000 monthly.

This is positive growth behaviour.
But structure needs correction.

» Platform Comparison Perspective
– You plan using another app.
– Such apps promote self investing.
– Guidance quality is limited.

Ease should not replace planning.

» Direct Platform Reality Check
– Such apps promote direct plans.
– Expense difference looks attractive.
– But hidden costs exist.

Cost is not only expense ratio.
Mistakes cost more.

» Disadvantages Of Direct Plans
– No personalised advice.
– No behaviour guidance during falls.
– No portfolio review support.

Investors act emotionally without guidance.
This hurts returns badly.

» Decision Errors In Direct Investing
– Panic selling during market falls.
– Overconfidence during rallies.
– Frequent fund switching.

These mistakes destroy compounding.
They are very common.

» Lack Of Accountability In Apps
– Apps do not call you.
– Apps do not stop wrong actions.
– Responsibility lies fully on investor.

This is risky for beginners.

» Why Regular Plans Add Value
– Guidance helps discipline.
– Asset allocation stays balanced.
– Behavioural mistakes reduce.

Value is beyond commission.
Support matters during volatility.

» Role Of MFD With CFP Credential
– Certified Financial Planner gives structure.
– Advice aligns with goals.
– Long-term handholding exists.

This improves investment experience.
Returns become smoother.

» Cost Versus Value Perspective
– Direct plans save small percentage.
– Wrong decisions lose big percentages.

Net outcome matters more.
Peace of mind matters too.

» Your Current Portfolio Concentration Risk
– Only one equity category exposure exists.
– Risk is concentrated.
– Diversification is missing.

This increases volatility risk.
Balance is needed urgently.

» Importance Of Diversification
– Different funds behave differently.
– Market cycles impact unevenly.
– Balance reduces shock.

Diversification improves consistency.

» Ideal SIP Structure For Beginners
– One aggressive component.
– One stable growth component.
– One flexible allocation component.

This spreads risk evenly.
Comfort increases automatically.

» Why Avoid Multiple Apps
– Tracking becomes confusing.
– Discipline weakens.
– Reviews become difficult.

One guided platform is better.
Simplicity improves adherence.

» Data Security Perspective
– Apps are regulated.
– Data security standards exist.
– Risk is minimal.

But advice quality remains missing.

» Behaviour During Market Corrections
– Small company funds fall sharply.
– Beginners panic easily.
– SIP stoppage becomes tempting.

Guidance prevents wrong reactions.

» Emotional Support Value
– Markets test patience.
– Fear appears suddenly.
– Someone must guide.

Apps cannot replace humans here.

» Why Starting With Only Small Companies Is Risky
– Volatility is high.
– Returns are uneven.
– Confidence may break early.

Balanced start builds trust.

» Gradual Exposure Approach
– Start with core stability.
– Add aggression slowly.
– Increase risk with experience.

This improves journey comfort.

» SIP Amount Increase Strategy
– Rs 6,000 is fine initially.
– Increase annually with income growth.
– Discipline matters more than amount.

Time creates wealth here.

» Tax Awareness Brief
– Equity funds tax applies on selling.
– Long-term gains have limits.
– Short-term gains are taxed higher.

Holding longer improves efficiency.

» Avoid Frequent Changes
– Switching funds harms compounding.
– Costs increase silently.
– Discipline reduces regret.

Stick to strategy firmly.

» Monitoring Frequency
– Review once a year.
– Avoid monthly checking.
– Noise causes confusion.

Long-term vision matters.

» Avoid Social Media Influence
– Tips are often misleading.
– Past returns are highlighted.
– Risk is hidden.

Structured advice avoids traps.

» Role Of Goal Mapping
– Define why you invest.
– Time horizon matters.
– Risk choice depends on goals.

Without goals, investing feels stressful.

» Emergency Fund Reminder
– Keep emergency money separate.
– Do not mix with SIPs.
– Liquidity is essential.

This prevents SIP stoppage.

» Insurance And Protection Check
– Health cover should be adequate.
– Life cover matters if dependents exist.

Protection supports investment continuity.

» Long-Term Wealth Mindset
– Wealth grows slowly.
– Patience beats intelligence.
– Process beats prediction.

Consistency wins always.

» Common Beginner Mistakes To Avoid
– Chasing last year returns.
– Using too many apps.
– Ignoring allocation balance.

Awareness saves money.

» How A CFP Helps In SIP Planning
– Designs suitable allocation.
– Reviews yearly changes.
– Guides during volatility.

This partnership adds value.

» Confidence Building Perspective
– You already started investing.
– You are learning actively.
– Improvement is natural.

This journey will get smoother.

» Platform Safety Final View
– Bank app is safe.
– App based platforms are safe.
– Investment safety lies with fund house.

Decision quality matters more.

» Final Insights
– Starting SIP is a good step.
– Small company exposure is risky alone.
– Diversification is necessary now.
– Avoid self-direct platforms initially.
– Regular plans with CFP guidance add value.
– Consistency and discipline build wealth.

You are on the right path.
Correct structure will improve outcomes.

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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