Real estate vs MF!!! Hello, I am 36yrs old, I have 40L in MFs, 40L in my company esop. Currently i am investing 50,000 INR SIP. I can increase By another 30,000 on the SIP. However, should i buy a Plot in tier 2 growing city for 50L and pay emi there or top up on MFs and continue without a plot? Please help with my dilemma!

Ans: Go for SRM Easwari Engineering College

Ans: B.Tech courses are not designed for research. You have to make your basic strong. For research, you have to do masters first. Then you can study subject like research methodology to learn the procedure of topic identification for doing research.

Ans: If you are interested about research, you have to do Masters from Top institutes like IITs. Then only companies will consider you as Scientist.

Ans: Congrats Ravikant for joining BTech-CSE this year. I appreciate you for seeking guidance for the next 4-years.

I have already provided 1-2 answers for the same question. However, I TYPE OUT AGAIN my practical tips, as I cannot go through 3100 of my answers again to search/copy & paste the answer again.

1) Visit the college campus & your CSE Department. Spend around 2-3 hours, if the college has not yet opened.

2) Check the reviews/do thorough research about the college in Google/Quora. Please note, no college can be 100% perfect and the perception/opinion of the students about the college differs from one another.

Keep in mind any negative evaluations of universities, but avoid making predetermined conclusions until you get them validated after joining the college, as the internet is flooded with information with differing opinions.

3) If the course curriculum is available on the college’s website, go through it.
4) Try to research your favorite subjects in Google / YouTube / LinkedIn etc. till college opens.
5) Now, create your professional-looking LinkedIn Profile.
6) It is advisable to create a new professional email ID (preferably Gmail ID) like ‘ravikant_btech or ravikant_tech or ravikant_cse_tech’ etc. (for LinkedIn/Job Applications/Certificate Courses) INSTEAD of using the same personal email ID that you might be having already.
7) You can provide your email ID to the college if it stresses for the same ID when you applied for the college No issue.
8) Have a limited/like-minded friends circle though you can interact with all the students of your classroom.
9) Involve in co/extra-curricular activities, related to your domain or which will be of your interest. This will help you in the long run for Campus Interviews/Abroad Education etc.
10) Avoid skipping any classes and take notes, provided by the Faculties. Class notes are more important for all tests/exams in your college.
11) Have a good/professional relationship with all faculties of the CS department.
12) Create a separate note-book for doubts for each subject.
13) Whenever doubt-clearing sessions are conducted, fully utilise them and get all your doubts cleared and note down to avoid 11th hour pressure before each test/exam.
14) Important: Maintain a decent SGPA/CGPA of 8.5 and above without any backlogs/arrears.
15) After 1st Semester is over, start learning and/or upgrading new skills from NPTEL, LinkedIn, Coursera, Upgrad, Internshala etc. and / or recommended by your faculties.
16) Once you complete the online/offline short-term courses & get certificates, immediately update them in LinkedIn.
17) MOST IMPORTANT: Put job alerts in LinkedIn, related to your domain (CSE), get notifications, go through the JD (Job Description) of each job vacancy to know the job market trends and prepare yourself for the same.
18) Whenever you get an opportunity, interact with the 2nd to 4th year students & get their advice which will enable you to plan after completing each academic year.
19) Whenever Campus Recruitments are taking place, if time permits, interact with the last year students after they attend the interview, to know about the assessment tests, interviews, group discussion, selection process & companies visited.
20) Placement cell of most of the colleges displays the names of the recruiters/companies visited during the last 3-years. Whenever time permits, do a research about each company by visiting its website.
21) It is advisable to start preparing for assessment tests of Campus Recruitment, once you enter into 4th year.
22) Decide in advance in 4th year itself, whether you want to go for the job after your BTech or to pursue your Masters in India or Abroad.
23) If decided for Masters, start preparing well for Entrance Exams/IELTS/TOEFL/PTE etc. whichever is applicable.
24) Before approaching an Abroad Education Consultant, conduct thorough study on the countries and universities you are interested in.
25) Please note, your college cannot arrange to provide internships for all students. If you get, well and good.
26) If not, you should start trying through LinkedIn, Internshala, any other Internship platforms, or through your parents/their colleagues in any of their companies for Internship (instead of relying only on your college).
27) As far as the Campus Interview is concerned, prepare a good/professional-looking Resume just in 1-page as you will be a fresher. Use ‘cultivatedculture’ Resume Building Platform which is very user-friendly and free also.
28) To prepare for the online or offline interview, prepare yourself with Mock Interviews using your mobile phone with the help of your family members/friends. Conduct at least 10 mock interviews, correcting yourself in each one for your responses to the questions as well as your body language.
29) Preparing around 20-25 technical / non-technical questions & answers for the same in advance will further boost your confidence when you face actual interviews.
30) When applying for campus interviews, prioritize organizations with job descriptions that fit your profile, hobbies, credentials, qualifications, location, job title, and company reputation.
31) However, have Plan B & Plan C if campus recruitment does not work out.

Hope, I have covered almost all aspects with value-additions.

All the BEST for Your Bright Future, Ravi Kant.

To know more on ‘ Careers | Education | Jobs’, ask / Follow Us here in RediffGURUS.

Ans: Hi Deepak
You did not mention from which state you are.
Both CSE and Manufacturing are different branches.
Pl look into your interest, then choose the branch.
But if you are from Maharashtra, then go with COEP or if you are interested in CSE, then choose any good pvt engineering college like PICT Pune or some equivalent colleges.

If you are not satisfied with the reply, pl ask again without any hesitation.
If satisfied, please like and follow me.
Thanks

Radheshyam

Ans: Hi
There will be no effect on placement or other things if you redo the 11th or take a gap after the 10th.

If you are not satisfied with the reply, pl ask again without any hesitation.
If satisfied, please like and follow me.
Thanks

Radheshyam

Ans: Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) as a Strategy
A Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) is a strategy that allows you to transfer a fixed amount or units from one mutual fund to another at regular intervals. This strategy is particularly useful for managing risk and optimizing returns in a volatile market.

Key Benefits of an STP Strategy
Risk Management: STP helps in reducing risk by transferring money gradually from a debt fund to an equity fund. It avoids lump-sum investments, which might be risky in a volatile market.

Rupee Cost Averaging: With STP, you invest a fixed amount regularly, which helps in averaging the purchase cost over time. This is similar to a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) and can lead to better returns in the long run.

Optimizing Returns: STP can be used to shift funds from a low-risk, low-return fund to a high-risk, high-return fund. This strategy allows you to take advantage of market movements without exposing your entire corpus to market risks at once.

Tax Efficiency: By using STP, you can manage your capital gains better. Transferring small amounts regularly can help in spreading out tax liabilities, especially when moving from equity to debt funds or vice versa.

How an STP Works
Initial Investment in Debt Fund: You start by investing a lump sum in a debt fund, which is relatively safer and offers steady returns.

Regular Transfers: You instruct your fund house to transfer a fixed amount or fixed units from the debt fund to an equity fund at regular intervals (e.g., monthly).

Building Equity Exposure: Over time, the money gradually moves into an equity fund, increasing your exposure to the equity market. This helps in capturing the growth potential of equities while managing risks.

Types of STP
Fixed STP: In this type, a fixed amount is transferred at regular intervals. This is ideal if you want to systematically shift your investments from debt to equity without worrying about market conditions.

Capital Appreciation STP: Here, only the gains (appreciation) from the debt fund are transferred to the equity fund. This allows you to keep the principal intact in the debt fund while taking advantage of the growth potential in equities.

Flexi STP: In this type, the amount transferred can vary based on market conditions or your personal preferences. It gives you more flexibility but requires active monitoring.

When to Use STP
Entering Equity Markets Gradually: If you have a lump sum to invest but are concerned about market volatility, STP allows you to enter the equity market gradually.

Transitioning from Equity to Debt: As you approach your financial goals, you may want to reduce exposure to equities and shift to safer debt funds. STP can help in systematically making this transition.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio: If your portfolio has become overweight in equity or debt, STP can help in rebalancing by transferring funds to achieve your desired asset allocation.

Considerations for Using STP
Market Conditions: STP works well in volatile markets where timing the market is difficult. It spreads out the risk and can potentially lead to better returns.

Fund Selection: Choosing the right debt and equity funds is crucial. The debt fund should offer stability, while the equity fund should have growth potential.

Cost Implications: Keep an eye on the exit load and any charges associated with STP. Some fund houses may impose exit loads if the money is transferred too soon.

Investment Horizon: STP is generally suitable for investors with a medium to long-term investment horizon. It may not be as effective for short-term goals.

Final Insights
Balanced Approach: STP provides a balanced approach to investing, allowing you to benefit from both debt and equity markets. It’s a disciplined way to manage your investments, especially in uncertain market conditions.

Strategic Flexibility: Whether you are a conservative investor looking to enter equities cautiously or an aggressive investor wanting to lock in gains, STP offers the flexibility to adjust your strategy according to your financial goals.

Regular Monitoring: While STP is a set-it-and-forget-it strategy to some extent, regular monitoring of the fund performance and market conditions is recommended to ensure the strategy remains aligned with your objectives.

How Does an SWP Work?
Let’s break down a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) into simple, step-by-step terms:

Step 1: Choose the Right Mutual Fund
The first step is selecting a mutual fund to invest in, similar to picking the right savings jar for your money. If you need assistance, your Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) can guide you through the options and help you make an informed decision.

Step 2: Open an Account
Next, open an account with the mutual fund company, much like opening a bank account. This involves completing the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, and your MFD will help you with the necessary steps.

Step 3: Decide on Your Investment Method
Determine how you want to invest your money. Would you prefer to invest a lump sum all at once, or would you rather contribute gradually over time through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)? Your choice should align with your financial strategy and comfort level.

Step 4: Set Up Your SWP
Inform the mutual fund company of your decision to withdraw a fixed amount of money at regular intervals, whether monthly, quarterly, or at another frequency that suits you. This is akin to planning regular withdrawals from your savings jar.

Step 5: Withdraw Money Easily
On your chosen withdrawal date, the mutual fund company will handle the process for you by selling a portion of your mutual fund investment to generate the cash you need. This straightforward process ensures you receive your specified amount without any hassle.

Step 6: Seamless Transfer to Your Bank Account
The money from the sale is then transferred directly to your bank account. It’s like taking cash from your savings jar and putting it into your wallet, ensuring your funds are readily accessible when you need them.

Step 7: Ongoing Withdrawals
This withdrawal process continues at the intervals you’ve chosen, whether monthly, quarterly, or otherwise, until you decide to stop it or until your investment is fully depleted. This allows you to set it up and let it run automatically, providing a steady income stream.

Step 8: Continued Investment Growth
While you withdraw funds, the remaining money in your mutual fund continues to work for you. It may grow (or sometimes shrink) based on market performance. As you keep withdrawing money, the total amount in your fund will decrease. It’s important to understand how this balance of withdrawals and growth affects your long-term financial health.

Understanding and implementing these steps can help you make the most of your Systematic Withdrawal Plan, ensuring a steady income while allowing the rest of your investments to grow.

Can You Start an SWP Immediately?
Yes, you can start a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) right away if you have a lump sum ready to invest and use for regular withdrawals. The process is straightforward.

However, if you’re investing in an equity mutual fund, consider the timing of your SWP. Starting an SWP within a year of your investment may trigger a 20% short-term capital gains tax. Waiting at least a year before initiating your SWP could help you avoid this tax and benefit from lower long-term capital gains rates.

If you need immediate funds and are ready to start your SWP, you can proceed. But if you can afford to wait, delaying the start of your SWP might save you money on taxes in the long run. Having a strategy that aligns with your financial goals while optimizing tax benefits is always a smart move.

What is the 4% Rule for SWP?
You might have heard about the 4% rule for managing retirement funds. But what does it mean for your Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)?

The 4% rule suggests withdrawing no more than 4% of your initial investment balance each year during retirement. The goal is to ensure your savings last throughout your retirement years. Each year, you adjust the withdrawal amount for inflation to maintain your purchasing power.

The 4% figure is based on historical data and research, aiming to provide a balance between a comfortable income and ensuring that your funds don’t run out too soon.

Considering how this rule might fit your financial goals is important. It could align well with your SWP strategy to ensure a steady income while preserving your investment’s longevity.

Benefits of SWP
i.) Steady and Reliable Income
An SWP provides a regular stream of money, similar to receiving a paycheck. This consistent income can help you manage your monthly expenses, offering peace of mind with a reliable source of funds.

ii.) Unmatched Flexibility
With an SWP, you have the flexibility to choose how much money to withdraw and how often—be it monthly, quarterly, or another interval. You can also adjust the withdrawal amount or stop the withdrawals altogether whenever you want. This level of control over your finances is highly appealing.

iii.) Tax Efficiency
SWP offers potential tax savings. The money you withdraw from your mutual fund might be taxed at a lower rate. This can help you save on taxes and maximize your returns.

iv.) No Lock-in Constraints
Unlike some investments, an SWP provides complete flexibility. You can start or stop it anytime without facing penalties for withdrawing your money. Having access to your funds whenever you need them is a significant advantage.

v.) Potential for Capital Gains
Even as you withdraw money, the remaining amount in your mutual fund continues to grow, meaning your investment can still earn returns over time. Watching your money work for you even as you use it is a gratifying experience.

vi.) Mitigate Market Volatility
By withdrawing money in small amounts regularly, an SWP helps mitigate the impact of market fluctuations on your investment. This strategy, known as rupee cost averaging, is a smart way to manage risk.

vii.) Financial Peace of Mind
Knowing you have a regular income stream can significantly reduce financial stress, especially during retirement. This peace of mind allows you to enjoy life without worrying about finances.

viii.) Tailored Customisation
An SWP can be customized to fit your unique needs. Whether you need more money at a specific time of year or want to adjust for inflation, you can tailor your plan accordingly. A financial plan that adapts to your lifestyle is both comforting and practical.

By leveraging these benefits, a Systematic Withdrawal Plan can provide regular income, offer flexibility, deliver tax advantages, and support your financial goals.

What Are the Disadvantages of SWP?
While a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) is a powerful financial tool, it’s essential to be aware of potential downsides.

Depletion of Your Corpus
Regular withdrawals gradually reduce your invested amount. Over time, as you withdraw funds, your remaining investment balance shrinks. This can impact your long-term financial goals, so it’s crucial to consider how much you withdraw.

Market Impact
Another concern is market fluctuations. Withdrawing funds during a market downturn could mean selling investments at a loss, negatively affecting your overall returns. Managing this risk is vital to your investment strategy.

Tax Implications
Depending on your withdrawal strategy and the type of mutual fund, you may face capital gains tax. This can reduce your returns and affect your net income, so being prepared for the tax consequences is essential.

Unlike FDs where interest income is taxed annually, taxation in Debt Mutual Funds is deferred until redemption. Taxation only occurs upon redemption, allowing investors to defer tax payment and potentially benefit from lower tax liabilities.

Being aware of these potential disadvantages will help you plan more effectively and maximize the benefits of your SWP.

Is SWP a Good Investment?
When planning for retirement, is a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) a good choice? For many retirees, it can be an excellent solution.

SWP provides a reliable income stream, which is often what retirees seek. Using retirement savings or gratuity, retirees can choose the right mutual fund schemes and set up an SWP. This approach allows them to withdraw a fixed amount at regular intervals, ensuring a steady income throughout retirement.

But is it the best option for you? SWP helps manage finances predictably and ensures a consistent source of funds. However, it’s crucial to select the right mutual fund and understand how withdrawals might impact your overall investment.

Having a plan that provides regular income while allowing your remaining investments to grow is comforting. For many, SWP balances reliability and flexibility, making it a solid choice for managing retirement finances.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: Rajesh, prefer PCCOE-CSE. All the BEST for Your Bright Future.

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Ans: Prefer BSc (Statistics) . All the BEST for Your Bright Future.

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