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Love Guru

Love Guru   |204 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 2024

Love Guru has been answering relationship and romance related questions on Rediff.com for over 13 years. She won't mince words when telling you what the problem is and what you can do about it. If you want a fresh perspective from an unbiased, objective-thinking individual about your relationship woes, Love Guru could just be the person you need to need to hear from.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 15, 2024Hindi
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Relationship

Hello sir I am 37 years old male and married since 5 years and we had little girl of 4 years old. I need some advice for my relationship. We had problems in our relationship since the beginning of our engagement, as initially I was unaware of my wife's extra marital affairs when I come to know about it she told why she started to see other boy during engagement period also after our marriage as I wasn't upto her expectations, that was the time of 2019 . We had discussed about all each others expectations and solved the problem I tried to regain the confidence in our relationship but still somewhere we had fights every 5 to 6 months on different issues sometimes it's my parents sometimes it's me I dont give her time sometimes financially , in between she left my house and went to her father's home for 8 months after delivery of our baby girl, she told we are not made for each other I told her and explained all about consequences and convinced her to get her back. After that for again after 6 months we started fight with each other on different issues. But recently we fight and she lost control and slapped me and unfortunately in the vague of my anger I also slapped her and she again left me and went to her father house . It's been 1 month now we don't have contact each other because every time I only asked her for compromises and explain and convincing her to come back. This time I don't know what to do.thanks

Ans: Marriage counselling. Enlist at the earliest and see if you can fix matters, but you have to tackle one issue at a time. The infidelity, the inlaws, the lack of compatibility…there’s too many issues here.

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  | Answer  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jun 01, 2023

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Relationship
Hi Dr. Ashish, Good Afternoon, Iam 45 years old. I got married in 2010. My wife has ego and doesnt get adjusted to me and my family. I occured the experience after 2012 when my wife was 2 month pregnant. I was going to job, there was no peace of mind at all. From 2013 february we are not staying together. Her life is running as per her mother advice. We are having a communication very rarely. I had heard from her mother in law like impotent, not capable of doing anything. There are de-grading words always used and treated with no respect whenever i visited my wife house. My wife has communicated me verbally on January 2023, that she doesn't want the relationship to continue. She blocked me on whatsapp dated 03rd February 2023. I have one daughter aged 9 years. I am calling every week to get in touch with my daughter. The wife family not responding to the phones and my wife also. Request your sincere advice for permanent solution. Thanks & Regards, Deepak Shetty
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about the difficulties you're facing in your marriage and with your wife's family. It sounds like a challenging situation, but I'll try my best to offer some general advice.

Seek professional help: Considering the complexities of your situation, it might be helpful to seek professional guidance. Marriage counselors or therapists can provide a neutral space for both you and your wife to express your concerns and work towards finding a resolution.

Legal advice: If your attempts at communication and reconciliation have not been successful, it may be advisable to consult with a lawyer to understand your legal rights and options. They can guide you through the process and help you navigate any legal implications, especially regarding your relationship with your daughter.

Open communication: While it may be challenging, try to maintain open lines of communication with your wife. Clearly express your desire to work on the relationship and be involved in your daughter's life. Choose a calm and respectful approach when communicating, even if the response is not favorable.

Mediation: Consider involving a mediator to facilitate communication between you and your wife. A neutral third party can help create a constructive environment for dialogue and negotiation, increasing the chances of finding a mutually acceptable solution.

Patience and understanding: Dealing with relationship issues takes time and effort. It's important to remain patient, understanding, and willing to work towards a resolution. Focus on the best interests of your daughter and strive for an amicable co-parenting relationship, even if the marital relationship cannot be mended.

Focus on personal well-being: Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally during this challenging time. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you maintain a positive outlook.

Remember that every situation is unique, and the advice provided here may not fully address your specific circumstances. It's crucial to consult professionals who can provide personalized guidance based on a deeper understanding of your situation.

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |405 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 20, 2023

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Relationship
Hello Madam, thanks for your previous reply, as an update about the situation it has gone bitter today, where she has left me , taking away my daughter as well. This is after we had a fight on small little things where due to work related stress I tried to speak to her about me needing her help to understand the situation and also the situations about her past cheating episode keeps coming back affecting me. Thus leading to constant arguments. Today she has left home , leaving me totally unpreppared and feeling hopeless about the situation in life. I am going through a lot of work pressure stress and now this has really made a situation which is getting diffficult for me to deal with. No amount of contact with her is working, I just do not know how can I resolve this matter so that I can enjoy a happy life with my wife adn daughter again. she also threatens for divorce. I miss both of them dearly. I would really appreciate if you could advice on how to sort the matter out and get some sanity back into this relationship. I fail to communicate my thoughts and feelings clearly with my wife I believe. I try my best to speak her but she never gets it. Please assist in this. Thanks
Ans: I am so very sorry to know your situation which is very challenging It's important to approach the situation with sensitivity and patience.Take some time to reflect on how you communicate with your wife. Are there ways you can improve your communication style? Focus on expressing your feelings and needs without placing blame as this is very sensitive time.Communication is a two-way street. Make sure you actively listen to your wife's concerns and feelings. Understanding her perspective is crucial in finding common ground and working towards resolution. Given the mention of divorce threats, it may be wise to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. However, keep in mind that legal proceedings can further strain relationships, so it's best approached with caution. Remember that resolving complex relationship issues takes time and effort from both parties involved. Professional assistance can be instrumental in navigating these challenges. If your wife remains unresponsive, it might be worthwhile to focus on your own well-being and personal growth while keeping the lines of communication open for potential reconciliation.

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Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  | Answer  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 30, 2023Hindi
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Relationship
Hi, I am married from last 15 year, having a daughter , my realtion with my wife is very bad, she is like this since start of marriage, our is arrange marriage. She didn't want any kind of responsibility, she always want to go out and if possible do shopping, if I asked not to over spend she thinks not sure what and create scene. She fight with everyone even in office or with her parents, she blames other for all this, never ever think she can be wrong, she is having a feeling if you correct her , she not going to like it, she will say no need to teach me , I know. She even not hving very good relationship with my daughter, she is in class 10th and staying in baording. I am hving 2 flat just like jodi flat adjacant to each other, i am staying in one and she is in another , she hardly let me hv sex, but she talks or chat with stranger whole night, i try to question her but she started fighting, she didn't listen and do what ever she want, if u question she will fight, i really don't know how to handle this situation, I am feeling trapped and she is accusing me for all the mess. We had fight lots of time , we abused each other during fight a lot , but the problem still persist nothing changed in 15 years recently after fight i stop talking with her . Not sure how I should move forward , i talked with my daughter and she also suggesting me leave her for some time she will realize , should i go for divorce or how to move forward.
Ans: I'm sorry to hear that you're going through a difficult time in your marriage.
It's important to remember that ultimately, the decision to stay in or leave a relationship is up to the individual. Here are some things you can do to help you move forward:

1. Seek professional help: Consider seeing a therapist or counselor who can help you work through your feelings and provide guidance on how to move forward.

2. Take care of yourself: Make sure you're taking care of your own physical and emotional needs. This can include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that you enjoy.

3. Set boundaries: If your wife's behavior is causing you distress, it's important to set boundaries. This can include setting limits on spending, or establishing rules around communication.

4. Consider couples therapy: If you're both willing, couples therapy can be a helpful way to work through issues in your marriage and improve communication.

5. Think about your options: If you're considering divorce, it's important to think carefully about your options. Consider speaking with a lawyer who can provide guidance on the legal aspects of divorce.

Remember, every situation is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Take the time to consider your options and make the decision that's best for you and your family.

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1318 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 02, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi Anu, I am 45 year old and married from last 16 years and having 15 year old daughter . My Wife and I didn't have a good relation, We fight a lot, not sure what ever I speak she didn't like it and some how converted into argument , My wife is 10 year younger to me , I used to have good sex life at-least few year back, but relation was not good that time too, some how she is either having feeling of superiority or not sure what , She always blames me or my daughter if any things happen, she didn't ready to accept that she can be wrong . Previously even we used to have fight but overall things was fine , she used to generally fight but some how we do makeup after fight , now situation is out of control, she didn't accept her mistake and try to blame me for all the problem , she do over spend and if I try to control she start fighting, I think she just fight for what ever things she need for her selves , but always criticized / blame other , She pick up fight very easily with any one , She even fight a lot with our daughter . Even daughter some time suggest to go separate road than only she will understand , I try to go for concealing but no help , there also when used to discuss problem she hardly listen , even Councilor told her she must develop habit to listen others but nothing improve, I am not sure how to tackle this , She always sleep alone and if any disturbance she create ruckus , she want the things her own way if not than she can't tolerate . I am not sure but I need help here and problem after covid is more now , I try to manage these things previously but looks I don't have patience to handle this any more, I didn't like people blaming for no reason, it looks some time after doing so much for family I am nothing for my family and it is hurting me more. I will not say that I didn't fight , I do and mainly when I feel broken I shout on her and some time asked her to live the house , This may be as she always says she is looking for some one once she find she will leave the house , She always give threat and always say she didn't love me , She didn't find me attractive enough . She try to create environment where I should feel that I am not important person as well as social , I can write 10 more page around this but wanted to have some solution , not sure what could be best here . I wrote previously too but have not got any response yet.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I suggest that the two of you go and see a marriage therapist. This is not simply the job of a counselor; there is clearly a breakdown in the way your marriage is functioning...it needs both of you to build the marriage back again and the therapist will be able to see and review both sides and suggest/guide you two correctly.

10 or 20 pages are not going to help; what will help is that both of you sit down and think of why you are married and what you can do to rebuild it. Blaming her or yourself isn't anyway going to help...Rather than listing down each others' faults, try to work at this.

All the best!

..Read more

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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |75 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 19, 2024Hindi
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Career
I am married for 17 years. Since ours was a arranged marriage we had many ups and downs but slowly we have settled all our matters. We have three kids. Elder one is 16yrs, 11yrs and 3yr. I am having a guilt feeling that we have not been a good parent to our 16yr old. When he was born I was young and inexperienced and was always settling my difference with my husband and was not taking good care of my son. Now he is in college he is not performing well in his studies. And has become very aggressive. I am very much worried about his future. Now I want to repair the damages I have done to him and I am very much feeling guilty and blaming myself that it was all because of me and my husband's misunderstanding his life is affected. My other two kids are doing good in everything they do. I cry every day that I have done mistake with my son and pray for his successful life. Now what can I do to improve my son's overall wellbeing. Please suggest.
Ans: Dear Mom,

I can totally empathise with you...so here is what I am going to tell you out of my own experience and what I did to overcome this mom guilt and seeking forgiveness. It's good that you are have worked on your marriage and have 3 kids, pat yourself on the back for it. And it's normal in any marriage for these kind of ups and downs and then attaining peace and love, so good going for having found them!!And remember marriage is continuous work.

The solution I am going to give, I am going to divide it into two parts..

1. Forgiving yourself first..be kind to yourself, you were young, you were inexperienced, the mom you are to your 3 yr old is not the same person who brought up your first child, so quit being guilty! Every soul has a journey to take, your son chose you as a mother so that he could take that journey with you...you both had to take this journey together in order to evolve and grow into the people you are today. So, FORGIVE YOURSELF AND QUIT FEELING GUILTY, it's not easy but you have to start doing it. Be kind to the old you... and embrace the new you!! You are not the same person and so is your first born, this continuous evolving as a human being and becoming better is called life, rt?

2. Your SON is 16yrs old, the aggression that he has may not be because of what you did to him... it may be the changing hormones? When you are a guilty mother, you tend to blame yourself for all the wrongs that happen in your child's life, so quit being guilty.
Talk to him about how young you were when he was born and how guilty you feel about some things( be careful about what you say, kids are very resilient, they know how to protect themselves , so maybe how you remember things may not be the same way that he remembers), say sorry and seek his forgiveness. Check if you can have this conversation with him, don't give him the power to make you feel further more guilty. I leave this decision to you.

Don't cry dear mom, forgive yourself, heal and see what best you can do from now on with your first born...just move on from the past... be there for him, cherish him, love him and be there for him, help him navigate through life with compassion and understanding. It might take time, but it's all doable. Take care of him.. and a mother truly knows what is best for her child, trust your instincts, the mother's instincts are far too powerful, take back your power from the "guilty mother" and nourish your bond.

What "I do' and also advice all parents is to spend excusive time with each child, scheduling time with each child and doing something which they like takes the bond to new levels!! Try this out...

All the best... and wishing happy times ahead for you and your beautiful family!!

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 11, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hello sir, hope you’re doing well. My age is 33. I am investing 40K via SIP in MF in 5 different funds, 20K per month as EPF, 50K NPS annually, 28K EMI - 20 years for 2nd flat for investment, 1st flat home loan completed, 9K car loan for 5 years, also doing SIP 5K in momentum ETF on my own, health insurance from company side(5L) plus additional 5L but no term or life insurance yet. How am I doing financially? Scope of improvement? Please let me know
Ans: You are making commendable progress in financial planning at the age of 33. Your diversified investments and insurance indicate a proactive approach. Let us evaluate your situation and identify areas for improvement.

Current Financial Highlights
SIP in Mutual Funds (Rs. 40,000): This is a disciplined step towards wealth creation.

EPF Contribution (Rs. 20,000): Provides a stable retirement base.

NPS Contribution (Rs. 50,000 Annually): Strengthens retirement planning with tax benefits.

EMI for Second Flat (Rs. 28,000): Shows commitment to asset building.

Car Loan EMI (Rs. 9,000): Necessary, but car loans are liabilities, not assets.

Momentum ETF SIP (Rs. 5,000): Innovative but high-risk strategy.

Health Insurance (Rs. 10 Lakh): A good backup for emergencies.

No Term or Life Insurance: This is a critical gap that needs immediate attention.

Areas of Concern
1. High Loan Commitments
EMI for the second flat and car loan may strain cash flow.
The second flat as an investment can yield lower returns than mutual funds.
2. Lack of Term Insurance
Your dependents would face financial insecurity in your absence.
A term plan with at least 15 times your annual income is essential.
3. Momentum ETF Investment
ETFs are passive investments and lack active fund management benefits.
High volatility can lead to inconsistent returns.
4. Diversification of Investments
While your mutual fund SIPs are good, ensure they cover all categories: large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and hybrid.
Overconcentration in one type of fund or asset class can impact returns.
5. Insufficient Emergency Fund
Emergency savings for 6-12 months of expenses is crucial.
6. Tax Efficiency
Your investments and loan repayments must be optimised for tax savings.
Leverage Section 80C and 80D benefits effectively.
Recommendations for Improvement
1. Review Loan Strategy
Focus on prepaying the car loan as it carries no wealth-building advantage.
Reassess the investment potential of the second flat. If returns are poor, consider selling it and reinvesting in mutual funds.
2. Purchase Term Insurance
Opt for a term plan with Rs. 2 crore coverage.
Term insurance is cost-effective and ensures family security.
3. Optimise Mutual Fund Investments
Diversify across actively managed funds, avoiding over-reliance on ETFs.
Consult a Certified Financial Planner to refine your portfolio.
4. Enhance Emergency Fund
Save Rs. 2-3 lakh in liquid funds or high-interest savings accounts.
Use this only for unforeseen expenses.
5. Increase Health Insurance
Add a top-up plan of Rs. 10-15 lakh for better coverage.
6. Avoid Momentum ETFs
ETFs do not benefit from active management.
Actively managed funds outperform in volatile markets.
7. Plan Tax Efficiency
Invest up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C in ELSS funds.
Claim additional tax benefits under Section 80D for health insurance premiums.
Retirement Planning
Increase your NPS contribution to Rs. 1 lakh annually.
Diversify retirement planning by investing in hybrid funds for stability.
Children’s Education and Marriage
If you have or plan to have children, start early with SIPs in child-specific funds.
These investments should align with the time horizon for each goal.
Actionable Steps
Prepay the car loan at the earliest.
Reevaluate the second flat for potential sale and reinvestment.
Start a term insurance policy immediately.
Build a robust emergency fund.
Review and diversify your mutual fund portfolio with expert guidance.
Increase health insurance coverage for better security.
Avoid ETFs and shift focus to actively managed mutual funds.
Final Insights
You are on the right path but need adjustments for financial security and growth. Address the gaps in insurance and diversify your investments further. By following these steps, you can achieve financial freedom with better peace of mind.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 10, 2024Hindi
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Money
My age is 47 and I have invested 7.75 lakh in multiple stock and its grow arround 10 lakh from the past 2.5 years. I have 5.5 lakh home loan remaining . Should I withdraw these money and repay the home loan first and after that increase the SIP of that amount of mf .my current mf sip amount is 30k pm. Please suggest
Ans: Your query reflects careful consideration of financial priorities. Let's analyse whether using your stock investments to repay the home loan is the right step.

Evaluate the Existing Stock Portfolio
Your stock portfolio has grown from Rs 7.75 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs in 2.5 years.

This indicates a strong return of approximately 29%. If these stocks have long-term growth potential, continuing to hold them might be advantageous.

Consider whether these stocks align with your risk tolerance and long-term financial goals.

Impact of Repaying the Home Loan
Your remaining home loan is Rs 5.5 lakhs. Paying this off will eliminate your EMI burden.

Repaying the loan early saves on interest costs, but assess the prepayment charges, if any.

Compare the effective interest rate on your home loan with the expected annualised return from your stock portfolio.

Home loan interest rates are usually lower compared to stock market returns over the long term.

Increasing SIP After Loan Repayment
Repaying the loan frees up EMI money that can be channelled into mutual fund SIPs.

By increasing SIPs, you benefit from disciplined investing and rupee cost averaging.

Use the additional SIPs to diversify into funds aligned with your risk profile and financial goals.

Considerations for Long-Term Wealth Creation
Mutual funds, especially actively managed ones, provide better diversification than direct stocks.

Your current SIP of Rs 30,000 per month is a good start. Increasing this amount post-loan repayment accelerates wealth creation.

Actively managed funds can outperform index funds through skilled fund management. Avoid direct funds unless you have deep knowledge and time to manage investments.

Evaluating Stock Liquidation
Selling your stocks could trigger capital gains tax. For gains above Rs 1.25 lakh, you will pay LTCG tax at 12.5%.

Factor in transaction costs and tax implications before selling.

Retain stocks that have strong fundamentals and growth prospects. Sell only non-performing or high-risk holdings.

Holistic Financial Planning
Build an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses if you don’t already have one.

Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage for your family’s security.

Maintain a balanced portfolio with exposure to equity, debt, and alternative assets.

Monitor your investments regularly and rebalance them to align with changing goals and risk tolerance.

Final Insights
If your home loan interest is significantly higher than potential stock returns, repayment is wise.

Otherwise, consider maintaining the stock portfolio and continuing your SIPs.

A mix of both strategies—partial loan repayment and increased SIPs—may offer balanced benefits.

Engage a Certified Financial Planner for a tailored strategy that ensures long-term financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 04, 2024Hindi
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Money
I am 38 years old and i wanted to take the retirement at the age of 45. I need to understand whether i have enough money to handle my monthly expenses after retirement. These are the details of my Assests :- a) Flat - 03 Cr. b) Flat where i am staying - 2.5 Cr. c) Working space - 40 Lakhs d) Ancestral Home - 2 Cr. e) Shop - 30 Lakhs f) FD - 50 Lakhs g) PF - 32 Lakhs h) MF = 10 Lakhs Expenses a) Health Insurance - 20Lakh (Premium around 35,000/year ) b) LIC Premium - 78,000 / Year (running for last 08 years) c) Monthly expenditure – maintenance , grocery , petrol , car insurance etc , school fees = 85,000 INR d) Monthly Electricity Bill , water , etc = 12000 INR e) Unforeseen expenditure = 10000 INR /Month h) SIP = 65,000 Per Month I) Foreign Trip – 02 times a year = 4.5 Lakhs Overall Expenses/Monthly = 35000+78000+85000*12+12000*12+10000*12+65000*12+450000 = 2,627,000 = 218,000 /Month Current Monthly Salary -03 Lakhs/month Keeping in mind that I need at least 70-80 Lakh for my daughter higher studies . Seeing the inflation of 7% -- Shall I ok to take the retirement at 45 and pursue my dream . If yes then please suggest whether i can sustain for my remaining life .
Ans: Your goal of retiring early at 45 is ambitious yet achievable with careful planning and realistic adjustments. Let us evaluate your situation step-by-step.

Key Highlights of Your Assets and Liabilities
Real Estate Portfolio:

Two flats (Rs 3 Cr + Rs 2.5 Cr = Rs 5.5 Cr).
Working space: Rs 40 Lakhs.
Ancestral home: Rs 2 Cr.
Shop: Rs 30 Lakhs.
Total Real Estate Value: Rs 8.2 Cr.
Financial Assets:

Fixed Deposit (FD): Rs 50 Lakhs.
Provident Fund (PF): Rs 32 Lakhs.
Mutual Funds (MF): Rs 10 Lakhs.
Total Financial Assets: Rs 92 Lakhs.
Breakdown of Your Expenses
Annual Fixed Costs:

Health Insurance Premium: Rs 35,000.
LIC Premium: Rs 78,000.
Monthly Expenditures (groceries, utilities, etc.): Rs 1,07,000 x 12 = Rs 12,84,000.
SIP Contributions: Rs 65,000 x 12 = Rs 7,80,000.
Foreign Trips: Rs 4.5 Lakhs.
Total Annual Expenses: Rs 26,27,000.
Monthly Equivalent: Approximately Rs 2.18 Lakhs.

Future Commitments
Daughter’s Education: Rs 70-80 Lakhs (10-12 years away).
Inflation Impact: Annual expenses will grow at 7%.
Longevity Considerations: Plan for at least 40 years post-retirement.
Evaluation of Current Wealth vs Retirement Needs
Sustainability of Expenses:
Post-retirement, monthly expenses of Rs 2.18 Lakhs will rise significantly due to inflation. At 7%, expenses may double every 10 years.

Income from Assets:

Real estate offers limited liquidity unless sold or rented out.
FD, PF, and MF will serve as primary sources of income.
Relying only on Rs 92 Lakhs of liquid assets may not be sustainable for 40 years.
Suggestions for Financial Alignment
1. Liquidity Planning

Convert some real estate into liquid assets.
Sell non-productive properties like the shop or working space.
Invest proceeds in actively managed mutual funds for better inflation-adjusted growth.
2. Expense Management

Evaluate reducing foreign trips to once a year post-retirement.
Assess if LIC policies are yielding good returns. If not, surrender and redirect funds to mutual funds.
3. Investments for Inflation-Adjusted Growth

Increase investments in mutual funds.
Consider balanced and hybrid funds to balance growth and stability.
Allocate funds in a diversified manner across equity, debt, and international mutual funds.
4. Contingency and Health Coverage

Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to 12 months' expenses.
Review health insurance coverage to ensure it meets future medical needs.
5. Daughter’s Education Fund

Set up a dedicated portfolio with Rs 50-60 Lakhs for her education.
Invest in diversified equity mutual funds to achieve the target in 10-12 years.
Can You Retire at 45?
With your current savings and lifestyle, early retirement is challenging unless you:

Monetise part of your real estate portfolio.
Reduce discretionary expenses like frequent foreign trips.
Invest aggressively for inflation-adjusted returns.
Ensure a retirement corpus of at least Rs 8-10 Crores by 45.
What to Do Next?
Consult a Certified Financial Planner to design a personalised strategy.

Use a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) post-retirement for regular income.

Periodically review investments to ensure they are aligned with inflation and market dynamics.

Final Insights
Early retirement requires careful planning, disciplined investing, and realistic expense management. Your current assets are a strong foundation, but adjustments are needed for long-term sustainability. With proper strategy and prudent financial decisions, you can achieve your dream of retiring at 45.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

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Money
I was doing monthly SIP to Axis small cap fund and UTI Flexicap fund for last 4 years. But these 2 funds are not performing well. I want to switch to other funds of same category and I'm thinking of Quant Small cap and HDFC Flexicap. Are these good funds for long term (5-6 years)? Do you have any other fund in mind for suggestion?
Ans: Your decision to invest through SIPs is praiseworthy. It builds disciplined savings and offers rupee cost averaging. Your concern about performance shows an active approach towards wealth creation.

The Axis Small Cap Fund and UTI Flexicap Fund may not be delivering as expected. This could be due to market cycles, sectoral exposure, or fund management changes. Evaluating alternatives is a proactive step.

However, switching funds requires careful assessment to ensure alignment with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Let’s explore this from multiple perspectives.

Evaluating Fund Performance
1. Small-Cap Funds:

Small-cap funds are highly volatile but can deliver excellent returns over time.
Quant Small Cap Fund has been a top performer in recent years.
However, it follows an aggressive strategy, which may not suit every investor.
2. Flexicap Funds:

Flexicap funds are versatile as they invest across market capitalisation.
HDFC Flexicap Fund is a consistent performer with experienced fund management.
It provides a balanced approach to growth and stability.
Challenges of Direct Plans
Direct funds save on distributor commissions but come with their challenges:

You need in-depth research to choose and monitor funds.
Regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offer professional guidance.
CFPs ensure your investments align with your financial goals.
It’s advisable to use a regular plan with the support of a CFP.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds outperform index funds in volatile markets.

Fund managers use insights to identify growth opportunities.
Active funds offer better returns during market corrections or specific sector trends.
Switching to actively managed funds is a sound decision.

Taxation Considerations
Switching funds involves redemption, triggering taxes.

For equity mutual funds, LTCG over Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
STCG is taxed at 20%.
Redeem strategically to optimise tax liability. Consult a CFP for effective tax planning.

Recommendations for a 360-Degree Solution
1. Assess Your Risk Appetite:

Small-cap funds are suitable for aggressive investors with a high risk tolerance.
Flexicap funds offer a safer option for moderate risk-takers.
2. Long-Term Perspective:

Ensure the selected funds align with your 5-6 years horizon.
Small-cap funds may need a longer timeframe to realise potential.
3. Diversify Investments:

Avoid concentrating in one category. Combine large-cap, mid-cap, and hybrid funds.
Diversification reduces risk and ensures balanced growth.
4. Periodic Review:

Evaluate fund performance every six months.
Replace funds only when underperformance persists across multiple market cycles.
5. Consult a CFP:

A CFP will help you design a portfolio that matches your goals.
They offer personalised advice and save you from unnecessary churn.
Funds to Explore
Although specific fund suggestions are avoided, ensure these criteria when selecting:

Consistent performance over 3-5 years.
Low expense ratio in regular plans.
Experienced fund management and strong parentage.
Final Insights
Switching to Quant Small Cap and HDFC Flexicap can be considered. However, evaluate them alongside other funds with similar objectives. Maintain a diversified portfolio and consult a CFP for tailored guidance.

Remember, long-term investing is not about chasing returns but achieving your goals. Stay disciplined, and review your portfolio regularly.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Money
Hi, I am 36 years old, married & have 1 child (3 years old). My & wife and I have combined income from a salary of 4 lakh post taxes. We are investing in the following funds & have an investment horizon of more than 15 years. Wife Aditya BSL Pure Value - 2k DSP Value Fund - 4k HDFC Small Cap - 2K JM Financial Mid Cap - 10K Kotak business cycle - 5k Kotak Emerging Equity fund - 2K Motilal Oswal large and Midcap - 10k Motila Oswal Business Cycle Fund - 10k My Self Bandhan Core Equity - 2k Baroda BNP India Consumption - 3k Franklin India Prima - 4k HDFC Mid Cap Opportunity - 2k HSBC Small Cap - 5k Kotak Special Opportunity Fund - 10K Nippon India Flexi Cap - 7.5 SBI small cap - 4k White Oak capital Large and Mid - 7.5k ICICI prudential India opportunity -10k Equity Market - 25K SGB - 10K LIC - 5.2K. I'm looking for the same investment till next 15 years. Definitely will increase the MF amount every year. I'm looking for at least 15+ Cr corpus at the age of 55. Please guide me with the existing investment
Ans: Your portfolio demonstrates impressive discipline and diversification. Your strategy aligns well with your long-term goals. Let’s evaluate your investments from different perspectives to enhance your financial journey.

Income and Savings Allocation
You and your spouse have a combined post-tax income of Rs 4 lakh monthly. This indicates a healthy cash flow for both expenses and investments.

You are currently investing a significant portion of your income. It’s commendable and reflects your commitment to wealth creation.

Ensure you have adequate emergency funds in place. Ideally, maintain 6–12 months of household expenses in liquid assets like bank deposits or liquid funds.

Regularly increase your investments in line with your income growth. This will help mitigate inflation and maintain financial discipline.

Portfolio Diversification
Your portfolio includes large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and thematic funds. Let’s analyse its structure:

Equity Funds: Your portfolio has a good mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. However, there may be an overlap in holdings due to multiple funds in similar categories.

Thematic and Sectoral Funds: These add potential for higher returns but come with higher risk. Maintain their allocation within 10–15% of your portfolio.

Direct Stocks (Equity Market): A Rs 25K monthly allocation here adds direct exposure. This is suitable if you have expertise and time to track individual stocks.

Debt and Gold: Investments in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) and LIC provide stability. However, LIC policies may have lower returns compared to other instruments.

Steps to Optimise Your Portfolio
1. Reduce Fund Overlap
Multiple funds in similar categories can lead to duplication. Consolidate funds with similar investment styles.

For example, instead of holding several mid-cap funds, select one or two strong performers.

2. Evaluate LIC Policy
LIC is a low-return investment compared to equity funds. If you hold traditional LIC policies, consider surrendering them after a cost-benefit analysis.

Reinvest proceeds into mutual funds for better compounding over 15+ years.

3. Balance Asset Allocation
Equity investments dominate your portfolio, which is suitable for your time horizon.

Continue allocating 10–15% to debt and gold for stability. Use a debt mutual fund for better tax efficiency than LIC policies.

Keep reviewing asset allocation annually based on life events or market conditions.

4. Increase Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Amount
Increase SIPs by at least 10–15% annually to match income growth.

This disciplined approach ensures consistent wealth accumulation.

5. Review Fund Performance Regularly
Monitor fund performance every 6–12 months. Exit funds underperforming their category for over two years.

Choose funds managed by experienced fund managers with a proven track record.

6. Tax Efficiency
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Keep this in mind while redeeming equity funds.

Use the tax-harvesting strategy by redeeming gains below Rs 1.25 lakh annually to minimise tax liability.

Insurance Coverage
Ensure you and your spouse have adequate term insurance covering at least 10–15 times your annual income.

A health insurance policy for the family is crucial. Consider a super top-up policy for additional coverage.

Avoid investment-linked insurance products. Term insurance is cost-effective, and mutual funds provide better returns.

Child’s Future Planning
Start a dedicated SIP for your child’s education and marriage. Allocate funds in diversified equity schemes.

Goal-based investing helps in disciplined savings and keeps you on track.

Retirement Planning
Your target corpus of Rs 15+ crore by age 55 is realistic.

Focus on equity for growth. Add balanced funds or flexi-cap funds for moderate risk-adjusted returns.

Avoid early withdrawals to benefit from compounding over 15+ years.

Thematic Investments
Funds like business cycle or thematic funds are high-risk. Keep allocation limited to avoid concentration risks.

Evaluate the suitability of these funds every three years.

Risk Management
Your equity allocation indicates a high-risk appetite. Reassess your risk profile every 3–5 years.

Avoid emotional decisions during market volatility. Stay focused on long-term goals.

Final Insights
Your financial discipline and long-term approach are excellent. Optimising your portfolio with fewer funds and higher SIP amounts will improve efficiency. Regular reviews and a clear focus on goals will ensure success.

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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