Author: Shalini Bhardwaj
Shalini Bhardwaj
Shalini Bhardwaj is a seasoned content writer with over a decade of experience in the finance sector, specializing in insurance, taxation, and investment strategies. With a strong academic background in finance and a passion for simplifying complex financial concepts, Shalini has crafted engaging articles, guides, and reports for various publications and corporate clients. Her work is dedicated to empowering readers with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions.
Small cap funds are mutual funds that primarily invest in stocks of smaller companies with high growth potential. These companies are ranked beyond the top 250 firms in terms of market capitalization, making them a high-risk, high-reward investment choice. While these funds can deliver significant returns during bullish markets, they are also prone to steep declines during market corrections. Why Small Cap Funds Have Declined Recently The Indian stock market witnessed a sharp downturn in October 2024, and small cap funds were hit the hardest, with an average drop of 7%. Compared to large cap and mid cap funds, which…
If you’ve just started earning, tax planning might seem daunting. However, it’s important to start early to save more and avoid last-minute hassles. Employers often ask for an investment declaration at the beginning of the financial year, so it’s wise to be prepared. Here are some smart ways to save on income tax and invest wisely. Why Start Early? The earlier you begin investing, the more you benefit from compounding and tax-saving opportunities. Young earners have time on their side, allowing their investments to grow significantly over the years. Planning your finances from the start ensures a stress-free tax season…
Building the right portfolio is key to achieving financial goals while managing market risks. A balanced investment approach ensures stability during market fluctuations and maximizes returns. The challenge lies in deciding the right mix of equity and debt based on your goals and risk tolerance. Here are five practical tips to help you build a strong and balanced portfolio. 1. Understand Equity vs Debt: What’s Right for You? When deciding between equity and debt, it’s important to understand their roles: How to Decide? Assess your financial goals and risk appetite. For instance: 2. Get Your Asset Allocation Right Asset allocation…
Retirement planning is a crucial aspect of financial management, ensuring a secure and comfortable future post-retirement. In India, various retirement benefits are available, including pension plans, provident funds, gratuity, and more. Understanding the tax implications of these benefits is essential to maximize your retirement corpus and minimize tax liabilities. This comprehensive guide delves into how retirement benefits are taxed in India, covering different types of retirement income, their tax treatment, and strategies to optimize tax efficiency. Types of Retirement Benefits in India Retirement benefits in India can be broadly categorized into: Each of these benefits has distinct tax implications, which…
Investing in mutual funds has become a popular way to create wealth over the long term. Unlike directly investing in the stock market, which requires time, effort, and a good understanding of market trends, mutual funds offer a professionally managed option for wealth creation. But with so many fund categories available—Flexi Cap, Multi Cap, and Solution-Oriented Funds like Retirement and Children’s Funds—choosing the right one can be confusing. This guide simplifies these options, comparing their benefits, risks, and suitability for different financial goals. What Are Flexi Cap and Multi Cap Funds? Flexi Cap Funds: Multi Cap Funds: What Are Solution-Oriented…
Market ups and downs are a normal part of investing, but when the markets fall, it’s easy to feel anxious. However, a downturn doesn’t only bring challenges—it also creates opportunities for investors to rethink their strategies and strengthen their portfolios. Here are five simple tips to help you stay on track and even find profit during uncertain times. 1. Stay Calm and Avoid Emotional Decisions When markets dip, it’s natural to feel nervous, but making decisions based on fear can lead to mistakes. Instead of focusing on short-term losses, think about your long-term goals. Remember, the stock market is a…
Taxpayers who failed to disclose foreign income or assets in their original Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the assessment year 2024-25 can still make corrections by filing a revised return. The last date to submit the revised ITR is December 31, 2024. Failing to do so could result in a penalty of up to ₹10 lakh under the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015. The Income Tax Department issued an advisory on November 18, urging taxpayers to ensure compliance with disclosure requirements. The department highlighted that revising the ITR provides an opportunity to…
Mutual funds are a popular investment option, especially for retail investors seeking to grow their wealth. However, the success of investing in mutual funds depends on selecting the right scheme. While online research helps, understanding the details mentioned in mutual fund documents is crucial. Here’s a simplified guide to help you evaluate these documents and make an informed choice. 1. Understand the Fund’s Objective The first thing to look for in the mutual fund’s documents, especially the Scheme Information Document (SID), is the fund’s investment objective. This will clarify whether the fund aims for long-term growth, regular income, or a…
With global diversification gaining popularity, many Indian investors are looking to invest in American stock markets. Investing in U.S.-based assets provides access to some of the world’s biggest brands, high-growth sectors, and market stability. For those interested in broadening their investment portfolio, several mutual funds offer exposure to American stocks while allowing investments through systematic investment plans (SIPs) and lump-sum payments. Here’s a look at five mutual funds that Indian investors can consider to tap into the American market potential. 1. Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 Fund of Funds Direct Plan Overview: The Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 Fund of Funds Direct…
With more young Indians entering the stock market than ever, it’s crucial to start with the right approach. Many new investors see the market as a way to make quick money, but without the right knowledge and patience, small mistakes can lead to big losses. If you’re a young investor or planning to enter the stock market, keep these five essential tips in mind to protect your investments and grow your wealth safely. 1. Avoid Treating the Stock Market as a Quick Money Scheme It’s common for young investors to enter the stock market with the hope of making quick…