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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 29, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Jun 29, 2024Hindi
Money

Hello, I am a 40 years old IT professional staying in a rented flat of 38k rental in Mumbai. I have 2 real estates of market value 2 Cr. in Kolkata. One is of 1.3 cr where my parents are staying and another is of 70 lakh. I get 14k rent from one of them. My total loan EMI is 50k. Home loan 35 lakh. Personal loan 3 5 lakh. I get salary of approx 2.5 L per month in hand 4lakh as yearly honus.. I have 30 Lakh of EPF. 8 Lakh of FD. PPF 1 lakh and Mutual funds 2 lakh. My monthly expenditure is of 1.75 lakh (including EMI) . My goals are to buy a house in Mumbai in next 3 years and build a corpus for retirement at 60 years. Pls suggest which area I should focus. My spouse does not have any income.

Ans: First, let's appreciate the hard work you’ve put into building your financial portfolio. It’s clear you have a solid foundation with a diverse set of assets. As a Certified Financial Planner, I’ll help you navigate your finances to achieve your goals of buying a house in Mumbai and building a retirement corpus.

Monthly Cash Flow Analysis
Your current monthly cash flow is crucial. You earn Rs 2.5 lakh monthly and receive Rs 14,000 rent. Your total monthly income is Rs 2.64 lakh.

Your expenses, including the Rs 50,000 EMI, are Rs 1.75 lakh. This leaves you with Rs 89,000 surplus each month. This surplus is a great starting point for planning.

Loans and Debt Management
You have two loans: a home loan of Rs 35 lakh and a personal loan of Rs 35 lakh, with a total EMI of Rs 50,000. Reducing your debt burden can free up more money for savings and investments.

Action Points:

Focus on Personal Loan Repayment:
Personal loans usually have higher interest rates. Allocate part of your surplus to pay off this loan faster.

Explore Refinancing:
Check if refinancing your home loan can reduce your interest rate and EMI, easing your monthly cash outflow.

Building an Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is essential to cover unforeseen expenses. You already have Rs 8 lakh in Fixed Deposits (FDs). This serves as a good emergency fund, covering about four to five months of your expenses.

Action Points:

Maintain Liquidity:
Ensure the FD can be liquidated quickly without penalties. Consider keeping part of it in a savings account or a liquid mutual fund for easy access.
Saving for a House in Mumbai
Buying a house in Mumbai is a significant goal. Given your three-year timeline, you need a robust savings strategy.

Action Points:

Set a Target Amount:
Estimate the down payment and other costs for the house. Typically, a 20% down payment is needed.

Dedicated Savings:
Open a separate account for this goal. Direct a portion of your monthly surplus into this account consistently.

Retirement Planning
Retirement planning is crucial for financial independence post-retirement. You aim to retire at 60, which gives you 20 years to build a corpus.

Current Assets:

EPF: Rs 30 lakh
PPF: Rs 1 lakh
Mutual Funds: Rs 2 lakh
Action Points:

Increase EPF Contributions:
If possible, increase your EPF contributions to leverage compounding benefits.

Regular PPF Contributions:
Continue contributing to PPF for long-term, tax-free returns.

Diversify Investments:
Invest in a mix of equity and debt mutual funds. Equity funds for growth, and debt funds for stability.

Investing in Mutual Funds
Mutual funds can offer higher returns compared to traditional savings. You currently have Rs 2 lakh in mutual funds.

Action Points:

Monthly SIPs:
Start a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) with part of your surplus. Aim for a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and balanced funds.

Review and Adjust:
Regularly review the performance of your mutual funds. Adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and your risk tolerance.

Managing Real Estate Investments
You own two properties in Kolkata, valued at Rs 2 crore. One generates Rs 14,000 rent monthly. Real estate is a significant part of your portfolio.

Action Points:

Rental Income Optimization:
Ensure your rental property is yielding optimal returns. Consider renovations or upgrades to increase rent.

Avoid Over-Reliance:
Diversify your investments to avoid over-reliance on real estate, which can be less liquid and more volatile.

Insurance and Protection
Insurance is crucial for protecting your family’s financial future. Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance.

Action Points:

Life Insurance:
Ensure you have a term insurance policy that covers at least 10-15 times your annual income.

Health Insurance:
Have a comprehensive health insurance plan to cover medical emergencies.

Tax Planning
Effective tax planning can increase your savings. Utilize available deductions and exemptions.

Action Points:

Maximize 80C Deductions:
Ensure you fully utilize the Rs 1.5 lakh deduction under Section 80C through EPF, PPF, and other eligible investments.

Additional Sections:
Look into other sections like 80D for health insurance premiums and 24(b) for home loan interest.

Regular Financial Reviews
Regular reviews are vital to stay on track with your financial goals.

Action Points:

Annual Review:
Conduct a comprehensive review of your finances annually. Adjust your plan based on life changes and market conditions.

Professional Guidance:
Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner periodically for personalized advice and to stay aligned with your goals.

Final Insights
Balancing multiple financial goals requires a strategic approach. Focus on reducing debt, increasing savings, and diversifying investments.

Ensure you have adequate insurance and regularly review your financial plan. With discipline and strategic planning, you can achieve your goals of buying a house in Mumbai and building a retirement corpus.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 29, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello, I am a 40 years old IT professional staying in a rented flat of 38k rental in Mumbai. I have 2 real estates of market value 2 Cr. in Kolkata. One is of 1.3 cr where my parents are staying and another is of 70 lakh. I get 14k rent from one of them. I get salary of approx 2.25 L per month in hand. I have 30 Lakh of EPF. 8 Lakh of FD. PPF 1 lakh and Mutual funds 2 lakh. My monthly expenditure is of 1.75 lakh. My goals are to buy a house in Mumbai in next 3 years and build a corpus for retirement at 60 years. Pls suggest which area I should focus. My spouse does not have any income.
Ans: I see you're navigating financial planning at a critical stage. Buying a house in Mumbai and planning for retirement are significant goals. With your background and current investments, you are already on a solid foundation. Let’s dive deep into how you can optimize your finances to achieve these objectives.

Current Financial Snapshot
You have a good salary and valuable assets in real estate. Your salary is Rs. 2.25 lakhs per month, which is commendable. You have properties worth Rs. 2 crores, an EPF balance of Rs. 30 lakhs, an FD of Rs. 8 lakhs, PPF of Rs. 1 lakh, and mutual funds worth Rs. 2 lakhs. Your monthly expenditure is Rs. 1.75 lakhs, and you pay Rs. 38,000 as rent. Your spouse does not have any income.

Buying a House in Mumbai
Buying a house in Mumbai is a considerable financial commitment. The real estate prices in Mumbai are high. Here’s a step-by-step approach to make this goal achievable:

Assess Your Budget:

Determine how much you can afford. Consider home loan eligibility based on your salary.
A property in Mumbai might require a down payment of at least 20-25% of the property value.
Down Payment Preparation:

Liquidate some non-core assets. Consider using your FD and PPF balances as part of the down payment.
Ensure you maintain a healthy emergency fund even after using these amounts.
Home Loan:

Apply for a home loan considering your current income and existing EMIs, if any.
Choose a loan tenure that offers manageable EMIs without straining your monthly budget.
EMI Planning:

Ensure your EMI does not exceed 40% of your monthly income to keep your finances balanced.
Pre-pay your loan whenever you have surplus funds to reduce the loan tenure and interest burden.
Building a Retirement Corpus
Retirement planning requires a long-term strategy focusing on systematic investment and growth. Here's a structured approach to ensure a comfortable retirement:

Calculate Retirement Needs:

Estimate the amount needed at retirement, considering inflation and life expectancy.
Aim for a corpus that ensures at least 70-80% of your pre-retirement income.
Maximize EPF and PPF:

Continue contributing to EPF and PPF. These are safe investment avenues with decent returns and tax benefits.
Mutual Funds:

Invest in mutual funds to harness the power of compounding. Consider equity mutual funds for long-term growth.
Diversify your investments across various mutual fund categories like large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds.
SIP Approach:

Start a systematic investment plan (SIP) in mutual funds. SIPs help in averaging the cost and reducing market volatility risks.
Increase your SIP amount annually to match your income growth.
Review and Rebalance:

Regularly review your investment portfolio. Rebalance it annually to align with your risk profile and financial goals.
Advantages of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds offer several benefits that make them a preferred choice for retirement planning:

Diversification:

Mutual funds invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds, reducing risk.
Professional Management:

Fund managers with expertise and experience manage the investments, ensuring better returns.
Liquidity:

Mutual funds are liquid investments, allowing you to redeem your units whenever required.
Compounding Power:

Long-term investment in mutual funds benefits from the power of compounding, significantly growing your corpus.
Flexibility:

You can start with small amounts and gradually increase your investments as your income grows.
Investment Strategy
Given your moderate risk appetite and long-term goals, here’s a suggested strategy:

Equity Mutual Funds:

Allocate a significant portion of your investments to equity mutual funds. These have the potential for high returns over the long term.
Focus on large-cap and multi-cap funds for stability and growth.
Debt Funds:

Invest a portion in debt funds to balance risk and ensure stable returns. Debt funds are less volatile than equity funds.
Hybrid Funds:

Consider hybrid funds that invest in both equity and debt, offering a balanced risk-return profile.
Avoid Index Funds:

While index funds offer diversification, they lack the potential for higher returns compared to actively managed funds.
Risk Management
Managing risk is crucial to safeguard your investments:

Emergency Fund:

Maintain an emergency fund to cover at least 6-9 months of expenses. This will help you manage unforeseen financial challenges without disrupting your investments.
Insurance:

Ensure adequate life and health insurance coverage. This will protect your family’s financial future in case of any eventualities.
Tax Planning
Efficient tax planning helps in maximizing your returns:

Utilize Section 80C:

Maximize your EPF, PPF, and ELSS mutual funds investments under Section 80C to save taxes.
Health Insurance:

Avail tax benefits under Section 80D for health insurance premiums.
Capital Gains:

Plan your investments to take advantage of tax exemptions on long-term capital gains.
Regular Monitoring and Adjustment
Financial planning is not a one-time activity. Regularly monitor and adjust your investments:

Annual Review:

Conduct an annual review of your financial plan. Assess the performance of your investments and make necessary adjustments.
Goal Tracking:

Track the progress of your goals. Ensure your investments are aligned with your objectives.
Professional Guidance:

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for professional advice. They can help you navigate complex financial decisions and optimize your investments.

You have done a commendable job by accumulating substantial assets and maintaining a disciplined financial approach. Your foresight in planning for a house purchase and retirement at an early stage is exemplary. It’s clear you value financial security and are committed to achieving your goals.


Balancing current expenses, future goals, and investments is challenging, especially with high living costs in Mumbai. Your efforts and dedication towards securing a better future for your family are truly admirable.

Your proactive approach towards financial planning, despite the high expenses and responsibilities, is praiseworthy. Keep up this dedication, and you'll surely achieve your financial goals.

Final Insights
Your financial journey is on the right track. By focusing on systematic investments, risk management, and regular reviews, you can achieve your goals. Buying a house in Mumbai and building a substantial retirement corpus are realistic and attainable objectives with a disciplined approach. Stay committed to your plan, and you will see your efforts bear fruit.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 14, 2024Hindi
Money
Sir, I am an employee of psu posted in Kolkata.My gross salary is around 75K/month.In hand is around 50K.I invest around 20K/mth through CPF+VPF & the balance is deducted as Income Tax,Union Fees etc.My age now is 34 . I want to buy a house/flat in Kolkata.I m going to get married next year.I want to build a corpus which can take care of my retirement & I can live a happy & peaceful life.Kindly advise..
Ans: Your desire to plan for a secure future is commendable. At the age of 34, you have ample time to build a robust financial foundation. Let’s explore strategies to help you achieve your goals of purchasing a home, planning for your marriage, and securing your retirement.

Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
Current Income: You earn a gross salary of Rs. 75,000 per month, with Rs. 50,000 in hand after deductions.

Current Investments: You are investing Rs. 20,000 per month in CPF and VPF. This is a good start toward retirement savings.

Tax Deductions: Income tax, union fees, and other deductions reduce your take-home salary. It’s essential to factor these in when planning your finances.

Prioritising Your Financial Goals
1. Buying a House/Flat in Kolkata
Budgeting for the Purchase: Determine the budget for your house or flat purchase. Consider the current real estate prices in Kolkata, your down payment capacity, and the loan amount you might require.

Home Loan Considerations: Evaluate the home loan options available. Aim to secure a loan with the lowest possible interest rate. Ensure that the EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) is affordable and does not exceed 40-50% of your monthly income.

Down Payment Savings: Start saving aggressively for the down payment. This will reduce the loan amount required and lower your EMIs.

Diversified Savings: While CPF and VPF are great for long-term savings, consider setting aside a separate corpus for your down payment. You can invest in short-term debt funds or recurring deposits for this purpose.

2. Planning for Marriage Expenses
Estimate Marriage Costs: Estimate the costs related to your marriage, including ceremonies, gifts, and honeymoon expenses.

Dedicated Savings for Marriage: Create a separate savings plan for your marriage. You can use a combination of liquid funds and short-term fixed deposits. This will ensure liquidity and safety of your funds.

3. Building a Retirement Corpus
Increase SIP Contributions: While CPF and VPF are stable, consider increasing your contributions to mutual fund SIPs. A diversified portfolio of actively managed funds can provide higher returns, essential for building a substantial retirement corpus.

Equity Investment for Long-Term Growth: Equity funds offer higher growth potential over the long term. They help in beating inflation, which is crucial for maintaining purchasing power during retirement.

Avoid Index Funds: Index funds merely track market indices and lack flexibility. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, allow fund managers to make informed decisions, potentially offering better returns.

Consider Regular Funds: Direct funds may seem attractive due to lower expenses, but regular funds offer the advantage of professional guidance. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures that your investments are aligned with your financial goals.

Managing Expenses and Loans
1. Optimising Monthly Expenses
Budgeting: Create a monthly budget to track your income and expenses. Identify areas where you can reduce unnecessary spending.

Emergency Fund: Establish an emergency fund to cover 6-12 months of living expenses. This fund will protect you from unforeseen financial setbacks without disrupting your long-term goals.

2. Planning for a Home Loan
Loan Tenure and EMI: Choose a loan tenure that balances your EMI and the total interest paid over the loan period. A shorter tenure results in higher EMIs but saves on interest. A longer tenure reduces EMIs but increases interest costs.

Interest Rate Consideration: Opt for a loan with a fixed or reducing interest rate, whichever aligns with your risk tolerance and financial plan.

Investing for a Peaceful Retirement
1. Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) for Post-Retirement Income
Steady Income Source: An SWP from mutual funds can provide a steady post-retirement income. It allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly while keeping your corpus invested.

Tax Efficiency: SWP is tax-efficient, especially if you invest in equity mutual funds. The capital gains tax on equity is relatively lower, which benefits your post-retirement income.

2. Balancing Risk and Return
Diversification: Ensure that your investments are diversified across different asset classes. This reduces risk and enhances the potential for returns.

Regular Review: Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your risk profile and financial goals.

Avoid Annuities: While annuities provide a guaranteed income, they often come with lower returns and inflexibility. Mutual funds and SWPs offer better growth potential and flexibility.

Final Insights
Sir, you have laid a strong foundation for your financial future by starting early. Focus on balancing your short-term goals like purchasing a home and planning for marriage with your long-term retirement objectives. Increase your SIP contributions to benefit from the power of compounding over time. Carefully plan your home loan to ensure it fits within your budget without compromising your retirement savings.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Oct 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 07, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hello Sir, i am 40 years old with 2 girls age 12,7.I earn 90k. i am investing in the following mutual funds - 1) axis bluechip - 2500 2) Franklin India prima - 1000 3) hdfc short term debt - 1000 4) kotak flexicap - 1500 5) mirae asset large & midcap - 1000 & 2500 6)Nippon India growth - 25,500 7) tata digital - 1000 Total 36k Total corpus valuation as of today is 10.8L. I have a Home loan with outstanding of 11.85L, with 80 months left at 10.5p.a.(emi - 20,360) I have place it on rent for 9.5k. I am living in a rented apt at for convenience of job travel(rent - 17.5k). House expense is 30k.(basics, needs,wants). My wife(house wife) receives 1.5L p.a as rent towards her property, which is joint with her sister.( which we use towards the rent) My elder daughter has received a property from her grandparent, but it is under construction with disputable builder,thus no rental from it yet. Please assist how can i plan towards my goals 1)girls education 2) marriage 3) our retirement 4) should i prepay loan and start with zero As there is no emergency fund other than the savings. I was planning to increase my MF investments and continue clearing loan via EMI itself. We are in mumbai. No insurance till date.
Ans: Hello;

I am sure you have some EPF corpus accumulated over the years.

It may be utilised to prepay the home loan because that is your biggest liability as of now. (High ROI). If EPF withdrawal is an issue please think about selling the under construction flat by disputed builder.

Home loan repayment has to be priority number 1.

Typically home loan lenders demand term life insurance as collateral security but I am bit surprised in your case it has not happened so.

Nevertheless you should buy pure term plan with adequate sum assured including riders for critical illness and accident benefit.

Once home loan is completely prepayed you may start 2 additional monthly SIPs as follows:
10 K PPFAS flexicap fund
10 K ICICI Pru equity and debt fund

The existing corpus should be earmarked against elder daughter's education.

10 K ppfas flexi cap sip will be for your marriage corpus for daughters.
(55.5 L corpus expected in 15 years)

10 K ICICI Pru equity and debt fund sip will be for education of younger daughter. (~ 25 L corpus expected in 10 years)

36 K sip continued for another 20 years will grow into a retirement corpus of 4.12 Cr.

A modest return of 13% considered for all workings.

Happy Investing!!

You may follow us on X at @mars_invest for updates.

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

..Read more

Nitin

Nitin Narkhede  |93 Answers  |Ask -

MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jan 21, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 14, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi sir/mam, I'm 32 years old working in a private firm as Manager. I own 9 lacs in FDs, accumulated 17 lacs in Mutual funds through SIP of around 23k pm (currently XIRR at 15-16% in with 75% in equity). I also have 2.5 lacs in PPF and 1.2 lacs in NPS. For tax savings I do yearly investments in PPF and NPS of about 1 lacs and rest I cover with ELSS (part of my SIPs). I want to retire at the age of 50, my current salary is 1.2 lac per month in hand, and receive few incentives of 1.5 lac a yr. I live in Mumbai with my wife and plan to buy a house of 60 lacs (out of which 20 L I'm borrowing from family, and rest of it will be loan with about 35k EMI). I also have a flat in NCR worth 80 L (purchased at 35 lacs), for which I have an EMI of 11k per month which is covered by rent I receive from there. I don't have kids yet, but I plan to have two of them. What should be my plan of investing that I can retire by max between 50 and 55 yrs of age with an upper middle class lifestyle in either Mumbai or NCR. How much should my corpus be? My current expenses are around 60k including rent in Mumbai, and my parents are independent. I have both health and life insurance of 1 cr+ cover.
Ans: Dear Friend,
To retire comfortably at 50-55 with an upper-middle-class lifestyle, you’ll need a retirement corpus of ?5 crore. Currently, your mutual funds, PPF, and NPS are projected to grow to ~?1.82 crore by 50. To bridge the gap of ?2.18 crore, increase your SIPs by ?30,000/month in equity funds, which can grow to ~?2.25 crore at 12% CAGR in 18 years. Prioritize repaying the ?20 lakh family loan after buying the Mumbai house, ensuring the ?35,000 EMI doesn’t hinder your additional investments. Post-retirement, rely on rental income from your NCR property and a 4% systematic withdrawal strategy from your corpus to cover inflation-adjusted expenses. Maintain ?5-6 lakhs in an emergency fund and continue tax-saving investments like ELSS, PPF, and NPS. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to stay aligned with your goals. With disciplined savings and investments, you’re on track for a secure retirement.
Regards, Nitin Narkhede
-Founder Prosperity Lifestyle Hub,
Free webinar https://bit.ly/PLH-Webinar

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Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jan 27, 2025

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 01, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir, My home loan is 24.5 LAC. And it's started from last year April 2024, my emi is 30,600 per month for 10 years, if i paid 10 LAC in Jan 2026 it will be beneficial for me or wait for sometime to pay pre closure amount
Ans: Your question is very timely and thoughtful.

You have already completed over one year of EMI payments.

You are also planning a Rs. 10 lakh prepayment in Jan 2026.

This shows strong discipline and intention to reduce debt early.

That is highly appreciated.

Let’s evaluate the benefit from all angles before making the decision.

Let’s assess your EMI schedule, tax benefits, interest savings, and liquidity needs.

We will also look at emotional peace, risk readiness, and overall financial health.

» EMI Tenure and Loan Progress

– Your loan began in April 2024. EMI is Rs. 30,600 for 10 years.

– By Jan 2026, you would have paid 21 EMIs. That is nearly 2 years of repayment.

– You would still have around 99 EMIs pending after Jan 2026.

– Most interest is paid in the first few years. That’s how home loan schedules work.

– So prepayment at this stage can save you substantial interest.

– But, the benefit must be compared with your other financial needs.

– This is not only about saving interest. It is about holistic financial planning.

» Interest Cost Evaluation and Savings Opportunity

– Your home loan interest rate is not mentioned. But let us assume a normal range.

– Most floating-rate loans now charge 8.5% to 9.5% annually.

– Prepaying Rs. 10 lakhs will reduce the outstanding principal sharply.

– As a result, the total interest over the loan period will reduce.

– You may save many lakhs over the long term by doing this early prepayment.

– You will also reduce your EMI period or future EMI amount.

– That helps you become debt-free faster.

– But, timing matters. January 2026 is still over 5 months away.

– You must consider where that Rs. 10 lakhs is now kept.

– Is it earning anything? If kept idle in savings, it gives low returns.

– In that case, prepayment gives better value.

– But if it is growing in mutual funds or long-term instruments, returns may be higher.

– Compare this interest cost versus what you earn from that Rs. 10 lakh.

– You must also think about safety, peace of mind, and future stability.

» Tax Benefits on Home Loan and Prepayment Impact

– Under Sec 24(b), you get deduction of up to Rs. 2 lakhs on home loan interest.

– This reduces your taxable income. Helps especially if you are in the 20% or 30% slab.

– Also, under Sec 80C, you get Rs. 1.5 lakh deduction for principal.

– But that Rs. 1.5 lakh 80C is usually covered by EPF, PPF, insurance, ELSS, etc.

– If you prepay Rs. 10 lakh, your interest in future years may fall.

– Then, the Rs. 2 lakh interest deduction under Sec 24(b) may not be fully used.

– But remember, you are spending Rs. 10 lakhs to save Rs. 2-3 lakhs of tax.

– That alone should not decide the choice.

– Interest saved is usually more than tax benefit lost in the long run.

– Prepayment still makes sense. But only if you are not compromising other goals.

– Always assess tax benefit as a secondary aspect, not the main reason.

» Your Liquidity and Emergency Readiness

– The biggest question is: Will you have enough money left after prepayment?

– Will you still have emergency funds of 6 to 12 months of expenses?

– Will you have cash for job loss, health issues, or family needs?

– Rs. 10 lakh is a big amount. Once paid, you cannot get it back easily.

– Banks do not refund prepayments. So you must be ready for cash crunch.

– If you have other liquid savings of at least Rs. 3 to 5 lakhs, then it is safe.

– But if this Rs. 10 lakh is your full backup, wait before prepaying.

– You must not become asset-rich but cash-poor.

– Also, do not disturb investments set for your long-term goals.

– Check how your mutual funds, PF, PPF, child goals, and retirement are aligned.

– Your financial safety net should never be at risk due to a home loan prepayment.

» Emotional Peace and Debt Reduction Mindset

– Paying off loans early gives peace of mind.

– Mentally, it feels lighter to reduce your EMI burden.

– For many families, freedom from loans matters more than returns from investment.

– If this Rs. 10 lakh is not required for your next 5 years, then prepaying is peaceful.

– But if the same money is helping you sleep better by keeping it in hand, wait.

– Your comfort and security are more important than any math.

– Financial planning is not only numbers. It is also emotional readiness.

– A good Certified Financial Planner balances both head and heart.

– If you feel better seeing lesser EMIs or faster closure, then go ahead with prepayment.

– If you fear losing liquidity or missing opportunities, then wait.

– In either case, the aim is to stay financially strong, not just interest-efficient.

» Other Choices to Use That Rs. 10 Lakh

– If you are not fully prepared for long-term goals, this Rs. 10 lakh may help.

– Retirement corpus, child education, spouse goals — all need investment.

– If those are underfunded, invest this Rs. 10 lakh in mutual funds.

– But not in index funds or direct funds.

– Index funds may look cheap, but they follow the market blindly.

– They underperform in volatile or sideways markets.

– Actively managed mutual funds by experienced managers adapt better.

– Direct funds also seem cheaper on surface.

– But there is no support, guidance, or review.

– Regular plans through a qualified MFD with CFP guidance add long-term value.

– The extra 0.5% cost gives better selection, periodic review, and mistake-avoidance.

– That brings better return than direct, unmanaged investing.

– So if you delay prepayment, don’t keep that Rs. 10 lakh idle.

– Put it to work through a long-term, diversified, tax-aware mutual fund portfolio.

– Match it to your goals, age, and risk appetite.

– Use only debt funds for less than 3 years. Use equity for more than 5 years.

– Also follow the updated capital gains tax rules now in force.

– These will apply when you exit mutual funds later.

– If this Rs. 10 lakh is not required in near future, investing may grow your wealth.

– If this feels unsafe, then home loan prepayment is still a good call.

» Ideal Approach Based on Situation

– If you have no major upcoming expense, then early prepayment is useful.

– If your emergency fund is untouched, then this move is secure.

– If your long-term goals are already funded, prepayment clears debt faster.

– If interest rate is above 9%, prepayment becomes even more beneficial.

– If job is stable and no income interruption is foreseen, go ahead.

– But if any of these are weak or uncertain, do not hurry.

– Wait for 6-12 months. Observe how rates, income, and expenses move.

– Meanwhile, invest that Rs. 10 lakh in a short-term fund with liquidity.

– Let that money earn better than savings account.

– If situation remains strong by Jan 2026, you may prepay with full confidence.

– Else, you can decide again at that point based on comfort and readiness.

– Either way, you are still progressing.

– Both options — prepayment or investing — are productive, if handled with thought.

» Finally

– You are thinking in the right direction. That’s the best start already.

– You are not ignoring the EMI burden. You want to plan ahead.

– That is very encouraging.

– Do not feel forced to prepay or delay.

– The right answer depends on your comfort, liquidity, and goals.

– Early prepayment is good if your financial base is ready.

– But there is no harm in waiting a few more months and reassessing.

– Peace and clarity are more important than urgency.

– You can also take part prepayment route. Pay Rs. 5 lakh in Jan 2026.

– Keep another Rs. 5 lakh for emergency or mutual fund.

– That brings the best of both.

– Stay debt-free, but also stay liquid and goal-focused.

– A Certified Financial Planner can help you model both paths and take balanced action.

– The right move is one that fits your full financial picture — not just the EMI part.

– Keep going strong.

– You are already ahead of many by asking this question today.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 01, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 35yrs old and my monthly salary is 75k. I am married and I have family health insurance of 10 lakhs, I have a daughter and a son and we are expecting the third child in the month of December. I have started with SIP of 1k 3 months back. I am taking mortgage loan of 30 lakhs on the house for 13 % interest from IIFL kindly suggest me to utilise the loan amount properly in various ways possible to invest. I am planning to utilise for the coaching centre development and 10 lakhs is taken for my brothers kidney transplant treatment expenditure.
Ans: – You are managing family, career, and investments together.
– Starting SIP early is a very positive step.
– Taking responsibility for your brother’s treatment shows great strength.
– Planning coaching centre development is a wise idea.
– Having family health cover is also a good base already.

» Analysing the Loan and Its High Interest Rate

– Rs. 30 lakhs loan at 13% interest is quite costly.
– This means high EMI and high total interest outgo.
– Every rupee must be used carefully to avoid wastage.
– Unused funds from the loan must not sit idle.
– Interest burden will continue regardless of usage.

» Immediate Medical Emergency for Brother

– Rs. 10 lakhs for kidney transplant is necessary and unavoidable.
– Keep this amount fully liquid and easily accessible.
– Use savings account or short-term ultra-safe debt fund.
– Avoid locking this amount in business or market-linked funds.
– Medical treatment should be done on priority basis.

» Business Development – Coaching Centre Use

– This is an opportunity for future income growth.
– Plan expansion only after checking location demand.
– Avoid spending large amount at once.
– Phase out business investments over 6 to 12 months.
– Start with essentials like rent, furniture, and staff salary.
– Don’t overspend on branding or decoration initially.
– Use part of loan in setting up technology and marketing.
– Focus on breakeven as early as possible.

» Avoid Spending Full Loan Immediately

– You are not forced to use all Rs. 30 lakhs now.
– Keep a part of loan in low-risk parking place.
– Use short-term debt fund or liquid fund with no exit load.
– Withdraw when business or medical needs arise.
– Don’t allow funds to lie in savings account earning low interest.

» Do Not Use Any Amount for Consumption

– Don’t use loan money for personal luxury or lifestyle.
– No electronics, jewellery, or vehicles from this loan.
– You are paying 13% interest, use it only for value creation.
– Avoid giving any part of the loan to others as casual support.

» Managing EMI Alongside Household Budget

– EMI on Rs. 30 lakhs at 13% will be heavy.
– Your Rs. 75k salary will face pressure from EMI, SIP, and family.
– Keep fixed monthly expenses under tight control.
– Review all regular spends and cut non-essentials.
– Prioritise needs over wants for the next 2–3 years.
– Increase SIP only once your EMI is manageable.

» Continue SIP with Discipline

– Though amount is small, your SIP builds wealth habit.
– Don’t stop SIP even if budget becomes tight.
– Increase SIP slowly as income rises.
– Choose actively managed funds, not index funds.
– Index funds don’t protect during market fall.
– Active funds adjust to changes and give better protection.

» Direct Funds Are Not Ideal for You

– Avoid investing in direct mutual funds.
– You get no personalised support or guidance there.
– Wrong decisions can damage long-term wealth.
– Invest via regular plans with an MFD and CFP.
– Get full-time advice, updates, and goal tracking help.

» Emergency Fund is Missing

– You must keep Rs. 1–2 lakhs aside for emergencies.
– This should not come from loan amount.
– Build this over next few months from salary savings.
– Use high-liquidity options like liquid mutual funds or sweep FD.

» Child-Related Future Expenses

– You are expecting third child soon.
– Future expenses like education and health will increase.
– Avoid touching SIP or business funds for school fees.
– Plan separate SIPs for kids’ education goal later.
– Maintain health insurance with maternity cover wherever possible.

» Keep Personal and Business Accounts Separate

– Don’t mix business and personal funds.
– Create a separate bank account for coaching centre.
– Record all income and expense in simple format.
– Use business income to slowly repay loan too.

» Loan Repayment Should Be a Priority

– Try to repay part of loan early if possible.
– Business profit can be used to prepay some part.
– Even Rs. 2–3 lakhs paid early will reduce interest burden.
– Don’t wait for full term of loan.
– Avoid taking another loan till this one is cleared.

» Don’t Invest Remaining Loan in Risky Options

– Don’t try to grow loan money via equity investments.
– You are paying 13% interest.
– Most equity returns are not guaranteed and are market linked.
– If returns go down, you still pay full interest.
– Use loan only for fixed needs like business or treatment.

» Avoid Insurance-Cum-Investment Products

– Don’t use loan money for buying ULIPs or endowment plans.
– They give poor returns and lock your money.
– They mix insurance with investment, which is harmful.
– If you already hold such plans, review and consider surrender.
– Use that money in good mutual funds for better results.

» Long-Term Financial Strategy After Loan Use

– Once business is running, start surplus-based SIPs.
– Create specific SIPs for child education and retirement.
– Review insurance needs again after third child is born.
– Don’t over-rely on health cover from employer.
– Take term insurance separately for family safety.

» Monitoring and Support

– Review all goals every 6 months.
– Track loan balance, business income, SIP growth.
– A CFP can support you across all financial areas.
– Work with MFD for implementation and fund advice.

» Finally

– You are taking bold and smart steps under pressure.
– Rs. 10 lakhs for brother’s health is unavoidable.
– Use it only for that and keep it liquid.
– Use balance money gradually for coaching centre.
– Don’t spend full Rs. 30 lakhs in one go.
– Avoid luxury or emotional spending with loan money.
– Keep EMI low by avoiding misuse of loan.
– Continue SIP without fail.
– Avoid index funds and direct funds.
– Use only actively managed mutual funds through MFD.
– Repay loan as early as possible.
– Start new SIPs once income improves.
– Maintain strong financial habits and discipline.
– Your future will surely improve with right planning.

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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