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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 22, 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 - Jul 22, 2024Hindi
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Hello Mr.Ramalingam Kalirajan I am 34 years old having 1Cr in bank. Just 1 lakh investment in mutual fund. Having a land of 4.5 cr Home of 1.30cr Currently there is no investment done because I have had lost a lot of money on Crypto and dumb investments on stocks without proper knowledge about 7 years back. I am considering for some heavy investments in India. Can u tell me some suggestions.

Ans: You are 34 years old and have Rs 1 crore in the bank. You have Rs 1 lakh invested in mutual funds. You also own land worth Rs 4.5 crore and a home valued at Rs 1.3 crore.

You have no current investments due to past losses in crypto and stocks.

It's great you want to invest heavily now in India.

Investment Strategy and Diversification
Equity Mutual Funds
Actively managed equity mutual funds are a strong option. These funds can potentially offer high returns over the long term. Fund managers use their expertise to outperform the market.

Balanced Funds
Balanced funds provide a mix of equity and debt. This can help balance risk and returns. They offer stability with moderate growth potential.

Debt Mutual Funds
Debt funds are low-risk options. They provide regular income and capital preservation. Ideal for diversifying your portfolio and managing risk.

Avoiding Index Funds and Direct Funds
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds are passively managed. They cannot outperform the market. Actively managed funds, with professional oversight, aim to exceed market returns. This makes them a better choice for aggressive goals.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem cheaper due to lower fees. However, investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential offers professional guidance. This can lead to better fund selection and higher returns.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Consider setting up SIPs for regular investments. SIPs help in averaging out market volatility. They ensure disciplined and consistent investing.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund. This should cover at least 6 months of expenses. It's essential for financial security and to avoid liquidating investments prematurely.

Diversification and Regular Review
Diversify your portfolio across different asset classes. This reduces risk and increases potential returns. Regularly review your portfolio and make adjustments as needed.

Seeking Professional Guidance
Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice. They can help design a strategy tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Final Insights
You have a strong financial foundation.

Investing wisely and diversifying can help you achieve your goals. Focus on equity, balanced, and debt mutual funds. Avoid index and direct funds for better returns.

Maintain an emergency fund and consider SIPs. Seek professional guidance for a well-rounded investment strategy.

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  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 17, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 17, 2024Hindi
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Dear Sir, I am 48 year old, having a monthly income of 4 lakh a month post tax. my current investments as follows . Mutual Fund - monthly contribution of 30k for the past 6 years and it has generated a corpus of 20lac so far. LIC jeevan saral yearly payment of 1lakh and this has generated a value of 31lakh so far.. FD currently to the tune of 1.20 crore and couple of other investments to the tune of 3 lakh. I need an advice as am targeting to get 1.5 crore more in next 5 years over and above the current wealth i have. I have no loan commitment. my monthly expenses around 1.5 lakh on an average
Ans: You're in a great financial position with a good monthly income, consistent savings, and a diversified portfolio. Here are some strategies to help you achieve your goal of accumulating an additional Rs. 1.5 crore in the next 5 years:

1. Increase Monthly Investment Amount:

You're currently saving Rs. 30,000 per month in mutual funds. Consider increasing this amount to accelerate your wealth accumulation. You have a significant disposable income (Rs. 4 lakh - Rs. 1.5 lakh = Rs. 2.5 lakh) after expenses.
2. Review Mutual Fund Allocation:

After 6 years, your chosen mutual fund has generated a corpus of Rs. 20 lakh. Analyze the fund's performance and risk profile. Consider consulting a financial advisor to ensure your mutual fund aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
3. Explore Equity Investment Options:

While FDs offer stability, their returns may not outpace inflation. Consider allocating a portion of your increased savings to equity-based instruments like stocks or aggressive mutual funds for potentially higher growth. However, remember the inherent risk associated with equity investments.
4. Invest in Tax-Saving Instruments:

Utilize tax-saving instruments like Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) to save taxes while potentially earning higher returns compared to FDs.
Here's a possible breakdown of increased savings:

Increase monthly SIP by Rs. 50,000 (Rs. 30,000 existing + Rs. 50,000 increase)
Invest Rs. 1,00,000 per month in aggressive mutual funds or direct stock picking (if you have the expertise or consult a financial advisor).
Important Considerations:

Risk Tolerance: Equity investments carry higher risk. Ensure your overall portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance.
Diversification: Maintain diversification across asset classes (equity, debt, gold etc.) to mitigate risk.
Financial Advisor: Consulting a financial advisor can provide personalized investment strategies based on your goals and risk profile.
Additional Tips:

Track and Review: Regularly track your investments and review your portfolio to adapt to market conditions and your evolving goals.
Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.
By increasing your savings, considering higher growth investment options, and maintaining a diversified portfolio, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving your target of Rs. 1.5 crore in the next 5 years. Remember, this is a general guideline, and consulting a financial advisor can provide a more personalized roadmap for your specific situation.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 07, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 39 years old. I have two houses 3 flats in Delhi and 7 flats in Patna with around 45 thousand (can be increased) rental income. My salary is around 80 thousand Rs. 5 lakhs in MF. 5 lakh in bank. 7 lakhs in EPF. Monthly expenditure is 50 thousands. No life insurance. Medical insurance for all my family members. I have my parents wife and two kids in my family. What are my investment options.
Ans: Your current financial status is quite stable, with multiple income sources and substantial savings. To help you plan better, I will provide a detailed guide on investment options, keeping your goals and requirements in mind.

Current Financial Overview
You have two houses and ten flats, providing a rental income of Rs. 45,000, which can increase. Your monthly salary is Rs. 80,000, and your monthly expenses are Rs. 50,000. You have Rs. 5 lakhs in mutual funds, Rs. 5 lakhs in the bank, and Rs. 7 lakhs in EPF. You have medical insurance covering your family. However, you lack life insurance.

Your family consists of your parents, wife, and two kids. Given this information, we will explore suitable investment strategies to secure your financial future and enhance your wealth.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification helps spread risk across different asset classes. Given your current portfolio, diversifying into various investments can help secure your financial future and reduce risks.

Emergency Fund
Before diving into investments, ensure you have an adequate emergency fund. An emergency fund should cover at least 6-12 months of your monthly expenses. With Rs. 50,000 in monthly expenses, your emergency fund should be between Rs. 3 lakhs to Rs. 6 lakhs.

Since you have Rs. 5 lakhs in the bank, this amount can serve as your emergency fund. It is easily accessible and safe.

Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are a great way to diversify your investments. They offer a mix of debt and equity options, allowing you to balance risk and returns. With Rs. 5 lakhs already in mutual funds, consider increasing this amount.

Actively Managed Funds: These funds are managed by professionals who aim to outperform the market. They are more flexible and can adapt to market changes. Avoid direct funds and invest through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to get expert advice and better fund management.

Debt Funds: These are less risky and provide stable returns. They are suitable for short-term goals and can be used for regular income through Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP).

Equity Funds: These have higher risk but offer higher returns. They are ideal for long-term goals like children's education or retirement.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIP)
SIPs are a disciplined way to invest in mutual funds. Investing a fixed amount regularly helps in averaging the cost and reducing market volatility impact. With your stable income, you can comfortably start a SIP.

Consider starting with a moderate amount and gradually increasing it. Since your rental income can increase, allocate a portion of this additional income to SIPs.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a safe and tax-efficient investment option. It offers good returns and has a long lock-in period, making it suitable for retirement planning. You can invest up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs per year.

Given your current financial status, allocating a portion of your income to PPF can provide long-term security and tax benefits.

National Pension System (NPS)
NPS is a government-sponsored pension scheme offering tax benefits and market-linked returns. It has two tiers:

Tier I Account: This is mandatory and has a lock-in period until retirement. It provides tax benefits under Section 80C and 80CCD.

Tier II Account: This is voluntary and allows for more flexibility in withdrawals.

Investing in NPS can help build a substantial retirement corpus while enjoying tax benefits. It complements your EPF and adds to your retirement security.

Gold
Gold is a good hedge against inflation and market volatility. Investing in gold can diversify your portfolio. You can invest in:

Gold ETFs: These track the price of gold and are traded on stock exchanges.

Sovereign Gold Bonds: Issued by the government, they offer interest and capital appreciation based on gold prices.

Digital Gold: This allows you to buy gold in small quantities and store it digitally.

Gold should be a small part of your portfolio, providing stability and protection against economic uncertainties.

Children's Education Planning
With two kids, planning for their education is crucial. Education costs are rising, and early planning can help manage these expenses.

Child Plans: These are insurance-cum-investment plans designed for children's education. They offer a lump sum at maturity, covering educational expenses.

Equity Mutual Funds: For long-term goals, equity funds can provide higher returns. Invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds to balance risk and returns.

SIPs: Start SIPs dedicated to education planning. Calculate the future cost of education and invest accordingly.

Life Insurance
Life insurance is essential for protecting your family's financial future. Without it, your family may face financial hardships in your absence.

Term Insurance: This is the most cost-effective insurance, providing a large cover at a low premium. It ensures financial security for your family in case of any unfortunate event.

Coverage Amount: Ensure the coverage amount is sufficient to cover your family's expenses, liabilities, and future goals. A rule of thumb is to have coverage of 10-15 times your annual income.

Health Insurance
You already have health insurance for your family, which is excellent. Ensure that the coverage amount is adequate to handle any major medical emergencies.

Top-Up Plans: If your current plan's coverage is low, consider a top-up plan. It provides additional coverage at a lower premium.

Critical Illness Cover: This covers specific critical illnesses and provides a lump sum on diagnosis. It can help cover high medical costs and loss of income during treatment.

Tax Planning
Efficient tax planning helps reduce your tax liability and increase your savings.

Section 80C: Utilize the Rs. 1.5 lakhs limit by investing in PPF, EPF, ELSS, and other eligible instruments.

Section 80D: Claim deductions for health insurance premiums paid for yourself and your family.

Section 80CCD: Get additional tax benefits by investing in NPS.

Home Loan Interest: If you have a home loan, claim deductions on the interest paid under Section 24(b).

Retirement Planning
With a stable income and multiple assets, planning for retirement is crucial.

EPF: Your EPF balance of Rs. 7 lakhs is a good start. Continue contributing to it for a secure retirement.

NPS: As discussed earlier, NPS is a great addition to your retirement plan.

Pension Plans: Consider pension plans that provide a regular income post-retirement. They help maintain your lifestyle and meet expenses.

Mutual Funds: Invest in a mix of equity and debt funds to build a retirement corpus. SIPs can help in systematic investment towards retirement.

Diversification in Investment Strategies
Balanced Funds: These funds invest in a mix of equity and debt. They offer stability and moderate returns. They are suitable for medium-term goals.

Multi-Asset Funds: These invest in multiple asset classes like equity, debt, and gold. They provide diversification and reduce risk.

Estate Planning
Estate planning ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. It provides financial security for your family.

Will: Draft a will to specify how your assets should be distributed. It helps avoid disputes and legal complications.

Trusts: Setting up a trust can provide for your family and manage your assets efficiently.

Nomination: Ensure you have updated nominations for all your investments and insurance policies.

Regular Review and Monitoring
Regularly review your investments to ensure they align with your goals. Monitor their performance and make adjustments if needed.

Annual Review: Review your portfolio annually with a Certified Financial Planner. They can provide expert advice and make necessary changes.

Rebalance Portfolio: Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. It helps manage risk and optimize returns.

Final Insights
Your financial position is strong, and with proper planning, you can achieve your goals. Diversify your investments, focus on tax planning, and ensure adequate insurance coverage.

Consider working with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice and expert guidance. Regularly review and adjust your investments to stay on track.

With a balanced and well-diversified portfolio, you can secure your family's future and achieve financial freedom.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

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Hi, Iam 42 years male working as GM with a hotel with 1.2 lac per month salary. Net in hand post TDS is 1.10 lac. Own a flat in Bhiwadi (NCR) worth 25 lac, a shop in Gurgaon worth 30 lac, one paternal house in South Delhi. No loan or EMI. My current savings are 6 lac in digital gold, 1.5 lac in equity, 50,000 in mutual funds which Iam planning to increase on lumpsum basis, no SIP as nature of my job is uncertain. ULIP linked LIC with a premium of 50,000 per year. Term insurance of 75,00,000/- with a premium of 15,000 per annum. Monthly household expenses are 50,000. Need your advise on how to go ahead on investments, I don't believe in long term gain or loss, NO SIP or regular payments, I wish to make. Wish to invest 50,000 per month. Kindly advise.
Ans: You are 42 years old, working as a GM in a hotel with a monthly salary of Rs 1.2 lakh.

Net in hand post TDS is Rs 1.10 lakh.

You own a flat in Bhiwadi worth Rs 25 lakh, a shop in Gurgaon worth Rs 30 lakh, and a paternal house in South Delhi.

Your savings include Rs 6 lakh in digital gold, Rs 1.5 lakh in equity, and Rs 50,000 in mutual funds.

You have a ULIP-linked LIC with a premium of Rs 50,000 per year and a term insurance of Rs 75 lakh with a premium of Rs 15,000 per annum.

Monthly household expenses are Rs 50,000.

You wish to invest Rs 50,000 per month but prefer not to make regular payments like SIPs.

Investment Strategy

Lump Sum Investments

Lump sum investments suit your preference for irregular payments.

Consider investing in diversified equity mutual funds.

These funds provide good returns over time.

Balance risk with a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.

Digital Gold

You already have Rs 6 lakh in digital gold.

Gold is a good hedge against inflation.

Avoid further investment in gold.

Diversify into other asset classes.

Equity and Mutual Funds

You have Rs 1.5 lakh in equity and Rs 50,000 in mutual funds.

Increase your mutual fund investments.

Choose actively managed funds for better returns.

Avoid direct equity if you cannot regularly monitor the market.

ULIP

ULIPs combine insurance and investment.

They usually have high charges.

Consider surrendering the ULIP and reinvesting in mutual funds.

This can offer better returns and lower charges.

Term Insurance

Your term insurance cover of Rs 75 lakh is good.

Ensure it is sufficient for your family's needs.

Review and adjust coverage if required.

Fixed Income Investments

Consider fixed income options like fixed deposits and government bonds.

These provide stability and predictable returns.

Allocate a portion of your funds here to balance risk.

Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund equal to 6-12 months of expenses.

Keep this fund in a liquid savings account or short-term FD.

This fund provides financial security for unforeseen events.

Tax Saving Investments

Invest in tax-saving instruments under Section 80C.

Consider ELSS mutual funds for tax savings and good returns.

This will reduce your taxable income.

Review and Adjust Portfolio

Regularly review your investment portfolio.

Adjust based on market conditions and personal circumstances.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for professional advice.

Final Insights

Your goal is to invest Rs 50,000 per month with flexibility.

Lump sum investments in diversified equity mutual funds are suitable.

Avoid further investments in gold and consider surrendering ULIP.

Maintain an emergency fund and review your insurance coverage.

Consider tax-saving investments to optimize your tax liability.

Regularly review and adjust your portfolio with professional guidance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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I have currently given 12 exams from pcb field now i know there is no more option in bio field except mbbs can u suggest me should i leave the field or not
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Why do you think so? It is not compulsory to choose a medical field if somebody opts for PCB in the 12th. There are many degree / diploma / certificate courses which will help to stand in the future. There are ample success stories when students crack the CA exam after 12th science. Even you can think so! If you know the basics of computers then you can join multiple job-oriented computer courses to get a job in the IT field. if you are creative, you can join to Arts degree/diploma courses. By doing this, you can start your business or get a job in multimedia companies, Advertising companies, film cities, and a lot more.
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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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