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Vivek

Vivek Lala  | Answer  |Ask -

Tax, MF Expert - Answered on Mar 11, 2023

Vivek Lala has been working as a tax planner since 2018. His expertise lies in making personalised tax budgets and tax forecasts for individuals. As a tax advisor, he takes pride in simplifying tax complications for his clients using simple, easy-to-understand language.
Lala cleared his chartered accountancy exam in 2018 and completed his articleship with Chaturvedi and Shah. ... more
Asked by Anonymous - Feb 20, 2023Hindi
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Hello sir, my mother died last month as i am only nominee i got @ 11 lacs in my account. I am salaried person of 2.5lacs pa , thus it will tax me please guide and suggest a investment plan.

Ans: The taxation depends on the source of the 11 lakhs. If you are planning to invest this money for long term , you can go for a balanced portfolio of mutual funds.
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  |8477 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 02, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello, I am having a corpse fund of 40 lacs which I want to invest Already have SIP of 1.20 lacs per month How can I these 40 lacs , what are better options to get these invested? Real estate ? Commercial space ? Mutual Funds as lumpsum? Please guide
Ans: You’re already doing a great job with your monthly SIP of Rs. 1.20 lakhs. Investing Rs. 40 lakhs wisely can further strengthen your financial portfolio. Let’s explore the best strategies to achieve this.

Understanding Your Current Situation
You have a solid financial foundation. Your existing SIP investments show your commitment to long-term wealth creation. Now, you have Rs. 40 lakhs ready for investment. Your goal should be to diversify and optimize this amount for maximum growth and safety.

Evaluating Investment Options
1. Mutual Funds (Lumpsum Investment)

Mutual funds are a versatile investment option. They offer diversification, professional management, and potential for high returns. Here’s how you can approach lumpsum investments in mutual funds:

Advantages:

Diversification: Spreads risk across various assets. This reduces the impact of poor performance by a single investment.

Professional Management: Managed by experts who make informed investment decisions.

Flexibility: Choose from various types of funds based on your risk tolerance and goals.

Liquidity: Easily redeemable, providing quick access to your money.

Categories of Mutual Funds:

a. Equity Funds: Ideal for long-term goals. Invest in these for higher returns. They come with higher risk but also higher growth potential.

b. Debt Funds: Suitable for conservative investors. These funds invest in fixed-income securities like bonds. They provide stability and regular income.

c. Hybrid Funds: A mix of equity and debt. These funds balance risk and return. They are suitable for moderate risk-takers.

Strategy for Lumpsum Investment
1. Staggered Investment Approach:

Investing a large sum at once can be risky due to market volatility. A staggered approach, like Systematic Transfer Plan (STP), can mitigate this risk. Here’s how it works:

Systematic Transfer Plan (STP): Transfer your lumpsum amount to a liquid or debt fund. From there, systematically transfer a fixed amount to an equity fund over a period (e.g., 6-12 months). This balances out market fluctuations.
2. Diversified Portfolio:

Divide your investment across different types of funds. This ensures a balanced risk-return ratio. For example:

Equity Funds: Allocate a significant portion to equity funds for long-term growth. Choose funds with a good track record and consistent performance.

Debt Funds: Allocate a portion to debt funds for stability. These funds act as a cushion during market volatility.

Hybrid Funds: Include hybrid funds for a balanced approach. They provide a mix of growth and stability.

Risk Management
Investing in mutual funds involves market risk. Here’s how to manage it:

1. Diversification:

Diversify across various fund categories. This spreads your risk and reduces the impact of any single investment performing poorly.

2. Regular Monitoring:

Regularly review your investment portfolio. Track performance and make necessary adjustments. This ensures your investments stay aligned with your goals.

3. Professional Advice:

Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice. They can help tailor your investment strategy based on your specific needs and risk tolerance.

Power of Compounding
Mutual funds benefit greatly from the power of compounding. Here’s how it works:

1. Reinvestment of Returns:

Mutual funds reinvest the returns generated. This means your earnings generate more earnings, leading to exponential growth over time.

2. Long-Term Growth:

The longer you stay invested, the more your money grows. Starting early and staying invested is key to maximizing the benefits of compounding.

Exploring Other Investment Options
While mutual funds are a strong choice, let’s briefly evaluate other common investment options and why they may not be as optimal:

1. Real Estate

Real estate can be a significant investment, but it comes with several challenges:

Illiquidity: Real estate investments are not easily liquidated. Selling property can take time, especially during market downturns.

High Transaction Costs: Buying and selling property involves high transaction costs, including registration fees, stamp duty, and agent commissions.

Market Risk: Property values can fluctuate based on market conditions, location, and other factors.

Given these factors, real estate might not be the best option compared to the flexibility and potential of mutual funds.

2. Commercial Space

Investing in commercial space has its own set of challenges:

High Initial Investment: Requires a substantial amount upfront, often more than residential real estate.

Market Dependency: The success of commercial investments depends on market demand, location, and economic conditions.

Management Hassles: Managing commercial property involves dealing with tenants, maintenance, and regulatory compliance.

These challenges make commercial space a less attractive option for many investors.

Creating a Comprehensive Investment Plan
Given your situation, here’s a detailed plan for investing your Rs. 40 lakhs:

1. Emergency Fund:

Ensure you have an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This provides a safety net during unforeseen circumstances.

2. Lump Sum in Mutual Funds:

Allocate your Rs. 40 lakhs across different mutual funds. Use a staggered investment approach like STP to manage market risk.

3. Diversified Portfolio:

Build a diversified portfolio with a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds. This balances growth and stability.

4. Regular Monitoring:

Review your portfolio regularly. Track performance and adjust as needed to stay aligned with your goals.

Mutual Funds: A Closer Look
1. Equity Funds:

Equity funds are ideal for long-term growth. They invest primarily in stocks and have the potential for high returns. However, they come with higher risk.

Diversified Equity Funds: These funds invest in a wide range of stocks across different sectors. They spread risk and offer good growth potential.

Sectoral Funds: These funds focus on specific sectors like technology or healthcare. They can provide high returns but come with higher risk.

2. Debt Funds:

Debt funds invest in fixed-income securities like bonds. They offer stability and regular income, making them suitable for conservative investors.

Liquid Funds: Ideal for short-term investments. They invest in short-term money market instruments and provide quick access to your money.

Income Funds: These funds invest in bonds and other fixed-income securities. They provide regular income and are suitable for conservative investors.

3. Hybrid Funds:

Hybrid funds invest in a mix of equity and debt. They balance risk and return, making them suitable for moderate risk-takers.

Balanced Funds: These funds maintain a balanced allocation between equity and debt. They offer moderate growth and stability.

Dynamic Asset Allocation Funds: These funds adjust the allocation between equity and debt based on market conditions. They provide flexibility and balanced returns.

Importance of Regular Monitoring
Regularly monitoring your investments is crucial. Here’s why:

1. Performance Tracking:

Track the performance of your funds. This helps you understand how your investments are doing and make informed decisions.

2. Rebalancing:

Rebalance your portfolio periodically. This ensures your asset allocation remains aligned with your goals and risk tolerance.

3. Adjusting to Market Conditions:

Market conditions can change. Regular monitoring helps you adjust your investments to take advantage of opportunities and mitigate risks.

Power of Compounding: A Deep Dive
Compounding is the process where your investment earns returns, and those returns start earning returns. Here’s why it’s powerful:

1. Exponential Growth:

Compounding leads to exponential growth. The longer you stay invested, the more your money grows.

2. Reinvestment:

Mutual funds reinvest earnings, leading to compounding. This accelerates your wealth creation over time.

3. Time Horizon:

The key to maximizing compounding is a long time horizon. Start early and stay invested to reap the benefits of compounding.

Final Insights
You’ve already taken significant steps towards financial security. Investing your Rs. 40 lakhs wisely can further strengthen your portfolio. Focus on a diversified approach, regular monitoring, and leveraging the power of compounding. By doing so, you can achieve your financial goals and secure a bright future for yourself and your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8477 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 19, 2025
Money
I'm a fresher who currently got placed into an NBFC for 25k salary in hand. How can I multiply this through investments and savings. Please suggest me some. Thank you in advance
Ans: Absolutely delighted to hear that you’ve landed a job. Your first step is a big one. Starting at Rs. 25,000 in hand, you’re not just earning—you’re building a future. Let’s break this down into clear action steps. My aim is to guide you like a Certified Financial Planner would, with a 360-degree plan for savings and smart investments.

I’ll help you understand what to do with your income, how to manage your spending, and how to multiply your savings over time.

Let’s begin with the most important areas.

Understand Your Cash Flow
First, track where every rupee goes.

Use a simple notebook or a mobile app.

Classify expenses: needs, wants, and savings.

Always aim to save before you spend.

Try to save 30% of your income each month.

That means at least Rs. 7,500 should be saved.

Build Your Emergency Fund
Start a separate bank savings account.

Keep Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000 for emergencies.

This is not for shopping or vacation.

Only use it for medical or job-related problems.

Add a fixed amount monthly until you reach your goal.

Get Health Insurance Immediately
Your employer may offer one, but it is not enough.

Buy a personal health cover worth Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh.

Premiums are low for your age.

It protects your savings during illness.

Always disclose everything honestly while applying.

Term Insurance is Not Urgent Yet
You are single and just starting.

So, no need for term insurance now.

Take it only when you have dependents.

Focus instead on building assets and savings.

Automate Your Savings Process
Open a separate savings bank account for investments.

Set auto-transfer every month after salary credit.

This creates financial discipline automatically.

Don’t mix this with your spending account.

Treat savings as your monthly bill.

Start SIPs in Actively Managed Mutual Funds
Choose regular plans via a Certified Financial Planner.

They guide you with experience and research.

Don’t go for direct funds without guidance.

Direct funds need time, study, and ongoing monitoring.

Regular plans give you ongoing personalised support.

A CFP and MFD can help with fund switching also.

Benefits of Actively Managed Mutual Funds
Fund managers take decisions after market study.

Better for new investors like you.

Helps avoid sudden losses due to inexperience.

Higher chances of outperformance in long term.

Active funds adapt to market changes quickly.

Stay Away From Index Funds
Index funds follow market, no fund manager involved.

In bad markets, they also fall badly.

No one to protect or shift to safer assets.

No flexibility in difficult times.

Active funds manage risk better than index funds.

Choose SIPs with Proper Goal-Setting
Don't invest just for returns.

Invest with a goal in mind.

Examples: buy laptop, travel, marriage, house fund.

Assign timelines for each goal.

Choose funds based on time horizon and risk level.

Ideal Portfolio Mix for You
Equity mutual funds: Long-term wealth creation.

Hybrid mutual funds: Balance between growth and safety.

Recurring deposit or FD: For short-term needs.

Keep 2 or 3 funds only. Not more.

Don’t invest in random funds from friends or apps.

Avoid These Investment Mistakes
Don’t buy insurance for investment.

Don’t invest in LIC endowment or ULIPs.

They give low return and high lock-in.

No flexibility, no transparency.

Avoid chit funds and schemes from unknown sources.

Regularly Review Your Progress
Every 6 months, check your investments.

See if your savings rate is increasing.

Track how much emergency fund you have built.

Check if goals are getting closer.

A CFP can help you monitor and correct your path.

Build Skills to Increase Income
Savings alone won’t create wealth fast.

Improve your career skills also.

Take affordable online courses.

Ask for projects at work, build a reputation.

Better pay will give you higher savings later.

Budgeting Tips That Actually Work
Follow 50-30-20 rule: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings.

For now, you may need to reverse it: 50% savings.

Use UPI apps for expense control alerts.

Don’t keep too much cash in hand.

Withdraw once a week, not daily.

Social Media Influencers are Not Financial Planners
Don’t follow random advice online.

Their needs are not your needs.

Your plan should match your goals, not theirs.

Stick to your savings plan strictly.

Professional advice is always better.

Avoid Loan Traps at Early Stage
Don’t take EMI cards or credit cards yet.

Start with a debit card linked to your bank.

Avoid monthly subscriptions that you forget.

Keep zero debt as long as possible.

Loans reduce your ability to save and invest.

Benefits of Investing via MFD with CFP Support
You get advice suited to your income level.

Fund selection is personalised.

Help is given for SIP starting, changes, withdrawals.

They help with taxes and switching too.

Your long-term success becomes their priority.

Don’t Fall for High Returns Promises
If someone offers 20% return, it’s risky.

Stable 10–12% return over years is good.

Compound growth needs patience.

Shortcuts often lead to losses.

Stay steady and grow slowly but surely.

Think Long Term, Act Monthly
Rs. 2,000 monthly SIP grows big in few years.

You will learn patience through SIP investing.

Don’t stop SIPs if market falls.

Use market fall as chance to grow faster.

Keep SIPs running without panic.

Protect Yourself from Tax Shocks Later
Equity mutual funds give tax benefit on long term.

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%.

For debt funds, all gains are taxed as per your slab.

So plan redemption properly.

Financial Independence Should Be Your Goal
Try to reach a stage where money works for you.

That needs slow and steady investing.

Once you reach Rs. 5 lakh corpus, add more SIPs.

With every hike, increase SIP by Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000.

Build wealth step by step.

Stay Consistent, Not Perfect
You may skip saving in one month. That’s okay.

Don’t stop. Resume next month.

Track your progress, not your mistakes.

Stay focused on long term.

Small savings add up to big money later.

Finally
You have made a wonderful beginning.

Saving at Rs. 25,000 salary shows maturity.

With consistency, Rs. 7,500 monthly savings will create big wealth.

Stick to professionally managed mutual funds.

Don’t try shortcuts or risky bets.

Get support from a trusted Certified Financial Planner.

Learn, earn, save, invest, and grow at your own pace.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4579 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 18, 2025
Career
Sir , My son got 97.729 percentile in JEE Mains, He can get the admission any IIT & will get CSE.
Ans: Sir, please advise your Son to check the answer keys of JEE Advanced conducted yesterday to know his score & his approximate All India Rank. This will help you know which IITs he might get for CSE.

Here is, How to Predict Your Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main/Advanced Results – A Step-by-Step Guide

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 Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your JEE Main percentile
Your category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
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 you are interested in.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your 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 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 engineering 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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