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Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  |97 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on May 12, 2023

Ashish Sehgal has over 20 years of experience as a counsellor. He holds a doctorate in neuro linguistic programming, mental health and social welfare.He is certified in neurolinguistics by both the Society of NLP and the American Board of NLP.... more
Ayushi Question by Ayushi on May 11, 2023Hindi
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Relationship

Hello sir. I am a 27 year old in a 4 year old long distance relationship. I need your help today. I will get straight to the point.I want to break up with my boyfriend. I am no more happy in this relationship. We have only met once just before the pandemic started. Since then,audio,video calls,text messages have been our solace. Despite our own shares of fights and arguements we always came back together and loved each other like never before. Earlier ,we used to be in touch constantly no matter how busy we are in our own lives.I know, change is constant. Nobody and nothing remains the same. I feel alone in this relationship. I have also shared my feelings regarding the lack of communication between us.I have always shared my annoyance with him and next day he will be in touch again. Now we are back to square one.I miss him but I don't feel like talking to him. I respect his schedule and efforts towards self improvement. But i no more feel the same way. I am not even attracted to anyone else let me clarify.But I don't feel happy anymore and feel any love for him. I don't know why I am feeling this way and how will I get over this ? What is the most effective way out? Please help me! Ayu

Ans: Hi Ayu,

I understand that you're going through a difficult time in your long-distance relationship, and you're considering ending things with your boyfriend. It's not an easy decision to make, but sometimes it's necessary for our own well-being.

It sounds like you've tried to communicate your feelings to your boyfriend, but the lack of communication between you two has persisted. It's important to have open and honest communication in any relationship, and if that's not happening, it can be challenging to maintain a healthy connection.

It's also important to remember that relationships go through ups and downs, and it's normal to experience periods of disconnection. However, if you've reached a point where you no longer feel happy or fulfilled in the relationship, it may be time to consider moving on.

Here are some steps you can take to help you navigate this situation:

Take time to reflect: It's important to take some time to reflect on your feelings and why you're feeling this way. Think about what you want and need in a relationship, and whether your current relationship is meeting those needs.

Communicate your decision: Once you've made the decision to end things, it's important to communicate that to your boyfriend in a clear and respectful way. Be honest about your feelings and why you've made this decision.

Take care of yourself: Ending a relationship can be emotionally challenging, so it's important to take care of yourself during this time. Lean on friends and family for support, engage in self-care activities, and seek professional help if needed.

Create a plan for moving forward: It's important to have a plan for moving forward after the breakup. This might include cutting off communication with your ex for a period of time, focusing on your own personal growth and goals, and exploring new hobbies or interests.

Remember, it's normal to feel sad or uncertain after a breakup, but it's important to prioritize your own well-being and make choices that align with your values and goals. I hope this advice helps, and I wish you all the best as you navigate this difficult time.

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Anu

Anu Krishna  |823 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on May 16, 2022

Relationship
Dear Mam I am 22 years old and today I want to share my story of heart break and I really want to know what I can I do better to make myself happy. I started dating this a guy in 2017 and I was madly in love with him. Everything for me was about him. Since I was living in a hostel I used to feel alone sometimes. Initially our relationship was normal. Then one day I went for a trip with him and we got physical for the first time. Somehow, I got attached to him more after that. I started calling him to my hostel to spend time with me. Meanwhile I faced some personal problems in my life. Those days were really bad and I used to suffer a lot. He was there for me always. He never made me feel alone in the city. I used to go to my family every year and then lockdown happened. I was stuck in my hometown. I had a fight with him and I just cut the call. From that day onwards his behaviour towards me changed.The very next day he went out with another girl and posted pictures. I was hurt. I didn't know what to say, I was in self-doubt mode but his behaviour started changing towards me.In the beginning, he said when you will come back I cannot come and stay with you. I agreed to it. Then he said I cannot meet you every weekend cause I want to make other plans as well. Slowly I understood that he wants me to stay away from his life. He went for a party with the girl late in the night and that triggered me very badly. I fought with him. I guess that was the moment he was waiting for. He said that he doesn't want me anymore and broke up. I kept begging him not to leave me but it seemed like he was dying to leave me. I was completely shattered. On 15th January he left me. Even after leaving he continued texting me. I was trying my best to control my feelings and I tried giving him the space he deserved. Still he kept texting me. He was not able to stay away from me. My vacation got over and it was my time to go back. This was the most difficult part coz this time I knew that he won't be there for me, and I have to survive alone. Once while coming back from my home town to my work town I texted him. He said that he is with the girl and he is drunk. I couldn’t sleep that night. I was shivering. I was broken. When I entered the city I was shivering cause I was not ready for the consequences. I didn't meet him because he went for a trip with that girl and got physical with her. He always maintained that it’s only after he left me that he got involved with someone else. He wanted me to be a part of his life somehow so he kept calling and texting me. Even when he was with the girl he used to come to my house every Saturday and go on dates with that girl on Sundays. I really didn't understand what was he up to. Meanwhile I went through her profile and came to know that she’s a little suspicious. One day I got the opportunity to tell him about it. He said come and meet me. He was drunk and we got physical. That time I checked his phone and saw the messages he’d shared with her. I was broken again but this time I texted her through his phone to please take care of him. That girl got angry and made things worse. Instead of making sure that he is alright she locked horns with him. He blamed me for losing her. I told him that my existence in your life is not good. Let's just not talk to each other. Next day he again texted me requesting to meet. In the evening when I went to meet him he was a completely changed person. He treated me very well, gave me his phone and made me feel special. Somehow he came back to me and started giving me the importance I was craving for. Today he is with me and pampers me. He has stopped doing certain things which he used to do but I get the importance.Despite all this, I am a bit insecure and scared because of what I have gone through in the past. Can you please tell me what to do?
Ans:

Dear SR,

Read this sentence that you have written:

“Even when he was with the girl he used to come to my house every Saturday and go on dates with that girl on Sundays.”

Do you not feel used and powerless?

How are you able to allow someone to treat you in such a disrespectful manner?

Did the two of decide to become friends and support one another in your respective relationships, like the way you stood by and watched him date this other girl while he walked into your life seeking approval?

Open your eyes please. The other girl is no longer in his life and he wails and comes back to you and now you are wondering what you should be doing?

If this was your sister or a best friend going through the same thing, will you tell them to put up with this toxic behaviour or will you ask them to take charge of their lives?

Will you tell them to love themselves more and reclaim their power or wait meekly to pick up scraps as and when the guy threw them around?

Stand up for yourself girl; at least he will think before trying this game with another girl.

Do the right thing by just being YOU and loving yourself more.

All the best!

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Love Guru

Love Guru   |187 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert - Answered on May 30, 2022

Relationship
Dear Love Guru, From where should I begin? It's a rather complex one. Well, I was in a 6-year-old long distance relationship (we met on Facebook) it was a good one and he was the best friend I thought I wanted. Over the years though, I started seeing a controlling streak in him in whatever I did. Though we were only connected online but applications like Discord, having access to my accounts and passwords became a tool to keep tabs on me. I had no privacy of my own and the sad part, I didn't even realise it was toxic. He had taken hold of a lot of aspects of my life and I didn't even realise how unhealthy it is. It was last year when I lost my mother (having lost my father years back) when life hit me. I was completing first year of my MBA programme when this tragedy occurred. Her passing amidst the COVID 2nd wave was terrorising, to say the least. Thankfully, I had gem of friends who were there throughout. It was amidst this that I realised that there was an element of control in the support he provided. He didn't understand the magnitude of what I was going through and always undermined my efforts. There was no respect in him for me and for me there was no love left (when I introspect now I think I was more in love with idea of love rather than loving him) but I didn't realise this because I was so habituated with him. My MBA summer internship started and I was paired with this batchmate who was also a classmate. I didn't know him because COVID ensured that first year of PG is completely online. When I first met him. I found him to be stiff, rude and cribbing. I didn't realise he was an introvert. Eventually, I started warming up to him with us travelling almost two months together there developed a thickness. We bonded over our shared state, food and sadness of losing our mothers. I didn't even realise when I started getting attracted to him and neither did he. But when I did the first thing that I did was to break up with the guy I was with because for the first time in six years I was tilting towards someone else and I knew that this was it for us. The break-up was long, tiresome and hurtful for both of us. I hated hurting him but I couldn't be with him and suffocate myself any longer. We tried to wish each other well but then when has all this been anything but ending up in a train wreck and now we don't have any contact with each other. I keep him in prayers and wishes because I know he is not a bad human being it's just that I allowed him to walk over me and he kept on doing it without realising what he is doing is mental abuse. But it's not the story of me and my ex. It's the story of the guy I have come to love. The rude, stiff and cribby guy… who knew he would turn out be this sensitive, loving and appreciative soul. I got what I always wanted from someone I loved: respect, trust and appreciation. It's not like I don't have fights with him or arguments but there is a dialogue at the end. He understands where he went wrong and so do I. I am finally in a happy, healthy relationship. The only issue here is we both are from two different religions, I am H and he is M. This often makes me feel that there is a timer to us. We are two highly educated people from urban India, completing our post-graduation from one of India's top B-schools with great placements in hand and still the noose of society and religion is tied around our neck. I try not to think of us in the long term but I am on that side of 20s now that settling down is always on my mind. Especially after losing my parents, I often crave a family that is my own. There is also a hint of loss hovering over me. I still haven't moved on from losing my mother and I don't think I ever will. But last one year has been a roller coaster ride with major decisions and incidences. How do I wrap my head around all of this? Now, here I am between love, life and ambitions. Asking you what to do? Where to go? Which road should be taken? Regards, R PS: Please ensure anonymity.
Ans:

Dear R, religion plays as big or as small a role in your life as you wish it to.

If either of you is overtly religious and tries to force your beliefs on the other, then yes, it can prove a problem.

If religion inside a home doesn’t matter, then intermarried couples usually have years of happy celebrations together of all festivals, their children follow both customs and everything works out well. And I have seen that happen.

So I would suggest you have the conversation on religion with each other right now, it’s imperative.

And then, if you’re on the same page concerning your future, go ahead and plan it together. 

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |823 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 11, 2022

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Relationship
 Dear Ma'am, I have been in a relationship since the last 4 years with a person 8 years older to me. We're of different caste plus I'm still in my career building phase and I can't even think of taking it to the next level. Also, since last few months the relationship has been a pain in my neck, it has been damaging my inner peace and equilibrium. He leaves and then comes back, each time I'm firm that I won't resume it but I do love him more than anything else so we get back together. In this entire process, I feel too exhausted now and the damage feels beyond repair. He's 31 already and his parents are forcing him for marriage now. Considering the impracticable situations, I know he has already given up on us but continues to be around for the emotional comfort he gets from me. He doesn't understand that it's damaging me, I can't run around in circles. He thinks let's continue it till we can, but what after that? He'll suddenly tell me he's getting married and what then? What would I do with all the anger and dissent within? Everyone around me keeps telling me to leave him because of all these reasons. Also, I'm in my early 20s and I have an entire life in front of me, I want to build my career. Also, I don't feel the need to see someone else just as a relapse or desperate situation, I'm a very conserved person that way. But I do need to break this toxic cycle and regain the control over my life. I want to grow and prosper, but this entire myriad of emotions drags me down..Please tell me what to do? Thanking you in anticipation.
Ans:

Dear SB,

What are you? His emotional sponge?

One thing I want to appeal to you is: Self-respect is something that we are so ready to give up for just a little love and attention. And the way you treat yourself is how others will treat you.

You are in your early 20s and you have an entire life in front of you and you want to build your career.

With the current space that you are in, do you feel you are choosing wisely to fulfil what you want from life and for yourself?

Also, are there other ways in which you can bring this relationship together. Like sitting him down and talking; maybe an elder in the family can do this.

If nothing works, remember, your life, your choice, your terms…nothing and no one can mess with your peace of mind unless you give them the permission to do so.

You want to prosper, then think and act in a manner that will allow you to prosperity and think of losing all that is keeping from feeling this prosperity.

Step up, take charge of your life NOW. All the best.

Disclaimer: All content and media herein is written and published online for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It should not be relied on as your only source for advice.

Please always seek the guidance of your doctor or a qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Do not ever disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read herein.

If you believe you may have a medical or mental health emergency, please call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital, or call emergency services or emergency helplines immediately. If you choose to rely on any information provided herein, you do so solely at your own risk.

Opinions expressed herein cannot necessarily provide advice to fit the exact specifics of the issues of the person requesting advice.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

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Hi Kirtan, I am 55 Yrs. working in private company, with monthly income of 3.0 lacs. Current investments in SIP since 2018 are - (1)Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Growth-4000/ month(2)HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund - Growth- 4000/ month (3)ICICI PRu Value discovery G - 4000/- (4)UTI Transportation & Logistics G- 4000/ month(5) From 2023 : 1)SBI Contra direct Plan Growth - 10000/month (2)Canara Rebeco small cap fund direct growth - 10000/month. Would like to achieve for retirement corpus of 2 crore- Kindly review my investments , and suggest if any modifications required. I have other investments in FD- 50 lac, can take risk for till retirement Raj
Ans: Dear Raj,

It's commendable to see your proactive approach towards retirement planning. With a monthly income of 3.0 lacs and systematic investment plans (SIPs) since 2018, you've laid a foundation for your retirement corpus.

Let's review your current portfolio and provide some insights:

Equity Funds (SIPs since 2018):

Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity, HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities, ICICI Pru Value Discovery, UTI Transportation & Logistics: These funds offer a diversified exposure across large-cap, mid-cap, and sector-specific themes. Ensure the funds align with your risk tolerance and investment horizon. Periodically review their performance and adjust if necessary.
New SIPs from 2023:

SBI Contra and Canara Robeco Small Cap Fund: SBI Contra focuses on undervalued stocks, and Canara Robeco Small Cap Fund aims for growth in small-cap companies. Given your existing SIPs, these funds could add a layer of diversification. However, small-cap funds tend to be more volatile; ensure they align with your risk appetite.
Fixed Deposits (FD):
Your FDs amounting to 50 lacs offer stability to your portfolio. While FDs provide security, the returns might not beat inflation over the long term. Consider gradually shifting a portion to equity mutual funds to potentially enhance returns, given your risk appetite.

Retirement Corpus:
To achieve a retirement corpus of 2 crore, ensure your investments are aligned with your retirement goals. Consider increasing SIP amounts periodically, taking advantage of compounding. Also, consider adding debt or balanced funds to reduce overall portfolio volatility as retirement approaches.

Suggestions:

Review & Rebalance: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and asset allocation. Rebalance if necessary to align with your retirement goals.
Diversification: Explore adding international funds or sector-specific funds to diversify further.
Tax Efficiency: Consider ELSS funds for tax-saving while aligning with retirement goals.
Given the complexities of retirement planning, consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can offer personalized guidance tailored to your retirement aspirations.

Your dedication to retirement planning is commendable, and with strategic planning, you're on the right path towards achieving your retirement goals.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 15, 2024Hindi
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Hi, i am 52 years old, now i want to save some money for my daugters aged 27 and 20, i can save 25000 per month for 5 years, suggest me the good mutual funds, thanks
Ans: Dear Sir,

It's heartening to see your commitment to securing your daughters' futures. Saving for their milestones at this stage in life is a thoughtful gesture. With a monthly savings capacity of 25,000 INR for the next 5 years, let's craft a plan tailored to your goals.

Considering the time horizon and your daughters' ages, a balanced approach with a mix of equity and debt mutual funds could be beneficial. Here's a suggested allocation:

Equity Funds (60%): Equity funds have the potential to offer higher returns over the long term. Consider investing in well-established diversified equity funds or index funds that have a proven track record.
Debt Funds (30%): Debt funds can provide stability and reduce overall portfolio volatility. Opt for high-quality short to medium-term debt funds or hybrid funds that have a blend of equity and debt.
Liquid Funds (10%): For liquidity and ease of withdrawals, consider allocating a portion to liquid funds. They offer stability with the potential for slightly better returns than traditional savings accounts.
Some reputable mutual funds to consider across these categories are those with a consistent track record of performance, low expense ratios, and strong fund management.

Remember, while selecting funds is crucial, it's equally important to review and rebalance your portfolio periodically. Market conditions, economic factors, and personal circumstances may necessitate adjustments over time.

Given the intricacies of mutual fund selection and portfolio management, consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance aligned with your daughters' future needs.

Your dedication to their future is commendable, and with a well-structured plan, you're on the right path to achieving your savings goals.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

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Dear Mr. Sunil Lala, I have been contributing 10,000 INR monthly to the Canara Robeco Emerging Equities Growth Fund for nearly seven years. Recently, I was advised that transferring investments from underperforming funds to better-performing ones is a wise strategy. Following this advice, I switched to the Canara Robeco Blue Chip Fund. However, I've noticed that the returns are not as expected. Should I consider switching back to the previous fund, or would it be more prudent to retain my position in the Blue Chip Fund? Please note, I am not currently enrolled in a SIP for the Blue Chip Fund
Ans: Dear Mr. Sunil Lala,

It's commendable that you've been consistent with your monthly contributions to the Canara Robeco Emerging Equities Growth Fund for nearly seven years. Making informed decisions based on performance advice is crucial, but it's equally important to understand the bigger picture.

Switching to a better-performing fund can indeed be a sound strategy, but it's essential to give investments time to perform and align with market cycles. Short-term performance fluctuations are common, and knee-jerk reactions may not always yield desired outcomes.

Considering your concerns about the returns from the Canara Robeco Blue Chip Fund, it's worth evaluating a few aspects:

Performance Analysis: Compare the historical performance of both funds over various market cycles to gauge their consistency.
Fund Objectives: Understand the investment objectives of both funds. Are they aligned with your risk tolerance and investment goals?
Exit Load and Tax Implications: Be aware of any exit loads or tax implications before making a switch.
If the Blue Chip Fund's performance doesn't align with your expectations, switching back to the previous fund could be an option. However, before making any decisions, consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to gain insights tailored to your financial situation.

Remember, investment decisions should be based on thorough research, understanding of fund objectives, and alignment with your financial goals. A well-informed choice will ensure your investments work effectively towards achieving your objectives.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

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I am 44 yrs. of age. My corpus is approx. 3 cr with 1 cr in share market with SIP & 1 cr in banks FD & I cr in post office via KVP & other investment tools. I am doing monthly SIP of 30k in share market. . What way should I proceed so that I can get 2 lakh per month at age of 55 yrs.
Ans: Your diligent savings and investments have built a commendable corpus, setting a solid foundation for your financial future. Your goal to generate 2 lakh per month by the age of 55 is ambitious and requires careful planning.

Given your current investments, let's consider some strategic steps:

Review Asset Allocation: With 1 cr in share market SIPs and another 2 cr in relatively low-yield options like FDs and KVPs, consider rebalancing to align with your income goals. A more growth-oriented allocation may be needed.
Increase Equity Exposure: To potentially boost returns, consider increasing your exposure to equities. Equity investments, especially in well-performing sectors or diversified funds, could offer higher growth potential over the long term.
Diversify Income Streams: Besides relying solely on investments, explore creating multiple income streams. Rental income, dividends from shares, or even starting a small business could supplement your monthly income.
Optimize Tax Efficiency: Ensure your investments are tax-efficient. Utilize tax-saving instruments and consider tax-free or low-tax income options to maximize your post-tax returns.
Regular Review: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and adjust your strategy as needed. Market conditions, economic trends, and personal circumstances can impact your financial plan.
Remember, achieving your goal requires a well-thought-out strategy and disciplined execution. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance tailored to your aspirations.

Your commitment to financial planning is the cornerstone of achieving your dreams. Let's embark on this journey together, ensuring a rewarding and secure future.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

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Hello Sir, I have the following Mutual Funds Investments, request you to let me know if these can be continued with or need to discontinue any of them, also please let me know new good performing funds to invest in. One time investment: (1) ICICI/ India Opportunities Fund - Growth - ?2,50,000, (2) ICICI/ Value Discovery Fund - Growth - ?2,50,000, (3) ICICI / Transporation & Logistics Fund - Growth - ?2,00,000. SIP Monthly: (4) Axis Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan - ?5,000, (5) Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Regular Plan - ?5,000, (6) Aditya Birla SL Focused Equity Fund(G) - â‚15,000, (7) HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund(G) - ?5,000, (8) ICICI Pru Bluechip Fund(G) - ?5,000, (9) Axis Small Cap Fund - Regular Plan - ?5,000, (10) ICICI Prudential Technology Fund - Growth - ?5,000, (11) L&T Midcap Fund - HSBC Midcap Fund - ?5,000, (12) ICIPRU Multi-Asset Fund - Growth - ?5,000, (13) ICIPRU Value Discovery Fund - Growth - ?5,000. Thank You.
Ans: Dear Sir,

Your proactive approach to investing is commendable, showcasing a diversified portfolio across various sectors and fund categories. Let's review and offer some insights.

The funds you've chosen cover a broad spectrum, from sector-specific to multi-cap and mid-cap funds. Each has its unique potential and risk profile.

However, have you considered the overlapping sectors or similar investment themes in your portfolio? Diversification is key, but too much overlap can dilute the benefits.

Moreover, while past performance offers insights, it's essential to monitor current performance and adapt to market trends. Are these funds still aligning with your investment goals and risk tolerance?

Regarding new investments, exploring funds with a consistent track record and aligning with evolving market trends could be beneficial. It might be worth considering funds that align with emerging sectors or thematic funds to diversify further.

Remember, a Certified Financial Planner can provide a holistic view of your portfolio, ensuring alignment with your goals and offering tailored recommendations.

Investing is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. Let's make it rewarding and aligned with your aspirations.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

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Dear Sir, I am 45 years old and have the following investments in Mutual Funds and other investments. Kindly review my portfolio and suggest changes as needed. My goals are: retirement and higher education for my son who is 13 years old now AXIS LONG TERM EQUITY FUND REGULAR IDCW PAYOUT - 1 lakh (one time) AXIS MULTICAP FUND-REGULAR PLAN-GROWTH - 1 lakh (one time) DSP TAX SAVER FUND IDCW PAYOUT - 50,000 (one time) ICICI PRUDENTIAL VALUE DISCOVERY FUND IDCW PAYOUT - SIP (5000) SBI BLUE CHIP FUND REGULAR PLAN IDCW PAYOUT - 1 lakh (one time) ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund -IDCW - 1 lakh (one time) Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund - Regular Plan Growth - SIP (5000) Tata India Tax Savings Fund Regular Plan IDCW - 50,000 (one time) Thanking You
Ans: It's heartening to see your commitment towards planning for both your retirement and your son's higher education. At 45, you're at a pivotal stage in life where strategic investment decisions can make a significant difference.

Your current portfolio reflects a blend of equity investments, which offer growth potential, and tax-saving funds, which are beneficial for long-term planning. However, as we journey through life, our goals evolve, and so should our investment strategy.

Have you considered how market fluctuations could impact your goals? Or how changing life circumstances might affect your investment needs? Diversifying your portfolio further could provide a cushion against such uncertainties.

Remember, it's not just about chasing returns but aligning your investments with your life's aspirations. A well-crafted plan by a Certified Financial Planner can offer you clarity and peace of mind.

Let's ensure your financial journey is not just about reaching a destination but cherishing the experiences along the way. Your dedication to planning today will pave the way for a fulfilling tomorrow.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 13, 2023Hindi
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Dear Sir, I am 45 years old and have the following investments in Mutual Funds and other investments. Kindly review my portfolio and suggest changes as needed. My goals are: retirement and higher education for my son who is 13 years old now AXIS LONG TERM EQUITY FUND REGULAR IDCW PAYOUT - 1 lakh (one time) AXIS MULTICAP FUND-REGULAR PLAN-GROWTH - 1 lakh (one time) DSP TAX SAVER FUND IDCW PAYOUT - 50,000 (one time) ICICI PRUDENTIAL VALUE DISCOVERY FUND IDCW PAYOUT - SIP (5000) SBI BLUE CHIP FUND REGULAR PLAN IDCW PAYOUT - 1 lakh (one time) ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund -IDCW - 1 lakh (one time) Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund - Regular Plan Growth - SIP (5000) Tata India Tax Savings Fund Regular Plan IDCW - 50,000 (one time) Thanking You
Ans: It's commendable to see your proactive approach towards investing at 45, with clear goals for retirement and your son's higher education. Let's delve into your portfolio and make some thoughtful recommendations.

Retirement Goal:
Given your age, retirement planning is crucial. Your one-time investments in Axis Long Term Equity Fund, Axis Multicap Fund, and SBI Blue Chip Fund are good choices for long-term growth. However, consider diversifying across asset classes to manage risk better. Adding debt or balanced funds can provide stability to your portfolio.

Higher Education Goal:
For your son's education, which is 5 years away, your SIPs in ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund and Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund are well-suited for potential growth. Given the shorter time horizon, you may want to consider gradually shifting to less volatile investment options as the goal approaches.

Portfolio Suggestions:

Diversification: Consider adding debt funds or balanced funds to balance out the equity-heavy portfolio.
Regular Review: Periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your goals and risk tolerance.
SIPs: Continue your SIPs but reassess the funds periodically to ensure they align with your goals and market conditions.
Tax Planning: Given your investments in tax-saving funds, ensure you maximize tax benefits while maintaining a diversified portfolio.
Specific Recommendations:

Retirement: Consider adding a mix of debt funds or balanced funds to your portfolio for stability.
Education: As the education goal approaches, gradually shift to less volatile options to protect the corpus.
Remember, investing is a journey, not a destination. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your portfolio is essential to stay on track towards your goals.

I strongly recommend consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to discuss your portfolio in detail and tailor a strategy that aligns with your aspirations.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

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Hi Sir, I hope you're doing well. I have a question that I think you might be able to assist me with. I'm 52 years old and currently need to plan for my children's education expenses. My elder child's education is ongoing and requires 10 lakhs, while my younger child will require 30 lakhs in two years. Here's a breakdown of my investments: Stocks, Mutual Funds, and Portfolio Management Services amount to 2.6 crores, and I have 40 lakhs in my Provident Fund. I also receive a monthly rent of 2 lakhs. If I estimate my monthly expenses at 1 lakh, do you think I can retire comfortably with this corpus? In the worst-case scenario, I can liquidate one of my properties, which could yield 3 crores. Ideally, I would like to retire without touching my real estate investments. My life expectancy is 85 years. Additionally, I have medical insurance coverage of 12 lakhs plus a top-up of 90 lakhs. I plan to travel twice a year during retirement, with an estimated expenditure of 1.5-2 lakhs per year. I would appreciate your insights on this matter. Thank you, Geo
Ans: Firstly, it's heartening to see your foresight in planning for your children's education and thinking ahead towards retirement. Your financial situation seems quite robust, and you've made commendable progress with your investments.

Let's delve into your retirement planning. With a corpus of 2.6 crores in stocks, mutual funds, and Portfolio Management Services, along with 40 lakhs in Provident Fund, you have a substantial base. Adding your monthly rent of 2 lakhs and estimating monthly expenses at 1 lakh, your current financial position appears promising.

Considering your monthly rental income and your expenses, you seem to have a surplus that could be redirected towards your children's education and retirement corpus. However, it's essential to factor in inflation and potential market fluctuations.

Your medical insurance coverage looks solid, providing a safety net for unforeseen medical expenses. Moreover, your travel plans are well within reach, considering your retirement aspirations.

Given your life expectancy of 85 years, you'll need to ensure that your corpus lasts throughout your retired life. With prudent planning and regular reviews, it's possible to achieve a comfortable retirement without liquidating your real estate investments.

Here are some suggestions:

Education Corpus: Allocate funds specifically for your children's education to ensure timely payments.
Retirement Corpus: Continue to invest and diversify your portfolio to beat inflation and safeguard against market volatility.
Real Estate: If possible, retain your properties as a safety net or as a source of passive income.
It would be beneficial to have a detailed one-on-one discussion with a certified financial planner to create a tailored financial roadmap for you. You can explore various scenarios, optimize your investment strategy, and ensure you retire comfortably without compromising on your aspirations. Please feel free to reach out to me for any follow-up questions.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 25, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir, I have started investing recently through monthly SIPs of Rs.5000 in ICICI equity and debt fund, Rs.6000 in Bandhan Elss fund, Rs.7500 in UTI Nifty 50, Rs.5000 in Parag Parikh Flexi cap, Rs.2000 in Mirae Asset Large Cap and Rs.1500 in kotak Flexi cap Also, I have 300000 in PPF. And I am planning to invest 150000 yearly in it and 2.18 lakh already invested in ELSS funds since the last 3 years and their XIRR is 15.10% today. How much return I can expect in 15 years? What changes I should do in my portfolio?
Ans: It's commendable to see your proactive approach towards investing. Your portfolio showcases a balanced mix across equity, debt, and tax-saving instruments, which is a good start.

Now, looking ahead 15 years is a bit like gazing into a crystal ball. The returns you can expect will depend on various factors like market conditions, fund performance, and economic trends. While past performance can give us some insights, it's not a guarantee of future returns.

Your current XIRR of 15.10% from ELSS funds over three years is a positive sign. This suggests that your investments are performing reasonably well.

As for the PPF and the SIPs, they're both solid choices for long-term investing. PPF offers tax-free returns and has a guaranteed interest rate, while SIPs provide the benefit of rupee-cost averaging and potential market-linked returns.

However, to optimise your portfolio further, we might consider:

Diversification: Ensure a broader asset allocation across various fund categories.
Review and Rebalance: Periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your goals and risk tolerance.
Tax Efficiency: Keep an eye on tax implications to maximise post-tax returns.
Given the dynamic nature of markets, it's essential to review and adjust your portfolio periodically.
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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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