Author: Shalini Bhardwaj

While home loans come with clear tax benefits, did you know that certain car loans can also offer tax advantages? For professionals like doctors, lawyers, or engineers and business owners who use their vehicles strictly for work, the Income Tax Act allows for deductions on car loan interest and certain expenses. Here’s a guide on how you can maximize your tax benefits on car loans if you use them for business purposes. Why Car Loans Are Treated Differently Unlike a home loan, where you’re building an asset that’s often considered essential, cars are usually viewed as luxury items under the…

Investing in the stock market can be a rewarding journey, but it also comes with a certain amount of risk. The key to building wealth sustainably is risk management—a process that helps investors identify, assess, and manage potential risks in order to minimize losses and maximize gains. Here, we break down the essential strategies every investor should use to manage risk effectively. Why Risk Management is Crucial for Stock Investors Stock market investments are affected by various factors, from economic trends and political events to market fluctuations and company performance. Proper risk management helps investors safeguard their portfolio against these…

SBI Mutual Fund’s Nifty Next 50 Index Fund is making headlines with remarkable returns, especially for an index fund launched only in 2021. In its short lifespan, this fund has delivered a 70.29% CAGR return over the past year, raising investor interest and attention. But what does this performance mean for potential investors? Here’s an overview of the fund’s investment strategy, past performance, top holdings, risk level, and some factors to consider before deciding to invest. How the SBI Nifty Next 50 Index Fund Works SBI Nifty Next 50 Index Fund is equity-based, meaning it passively invests in the Nifty…

A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a straightforward, effective way to grow wealth through mutual funds. It’s ideal for those who wish to build a strong financial foundation over time, without the stress of market timing. By following a few practical strategies, investors can amplify their returns and reach their financial goals faster. Here are five simple yet powerful tips to help you get the most from your SIP investments. 1. Start Early to Maximize Compounding One of the best ways to benefit from SIPs is to start investing as early as possible. When you invest regularly over a longer…

The Income Tax Department closely monitors certain types of financial transactions that may indicate unusual activity. For individuals and businesses, avoiding missteps with these transactions is essential, as the department can issue notices if any irregularities are detected. Here’s a closer look at six transactions that are commonly scrutinized by the tax authorities and tips to ensure compliance. 1. High-Value Cash Deposits The IT Department monitors substantial cash deposits, especially those made in one go. If you deposit ₹10 lakh or more in your bank account, this amount could flag a review from the tax department. Large cash deposits, if…

With Dhanteras just around the corner, many investors are exploring options for investing in gold, a tradition symbolizing wealth and prosperity. However, with modern investment avenues, gold purchases are no longer limited to physical jewelry. Digital Gold and Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are two popular choices that offer convenience, security, and flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of both options, helping you make a well-informed choice this festive season. Gold ETFs: Secure, Transparent, and Ideal for Long-Term Investors A Gold ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) works similarly to stock market investments. By purchasing Gold ETFs, investors can access the benefits of gold…

For many people in India, mutual fund Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) have become a popular and efficient way to build wealth over time. While foreign investors recently pulled large sums from the Indian markets, domestic investors held their ground, adding stability to the market, largely through SIPs. If you’re a retail investor, knowing a few key tips about SIP investments can help you reach your financial goals. Here are seven essential secrets to making the most out of your mutual fund SIPs. 1. Start Early to Harness the Power of Compounding One of the main benefits of SIPs is the…

As Dhanteras and Diwali approach, the tradition of buying gold takes center stage in India. For many, gold holds deep cultural value and is seen as a long-term investment or a financial safety net. However, whether you’re buying jewelry, coins, or investing in gold ETFs, it’s important to understand the tax implications on both purchasing and selling. Here’s a simplified guide to the taxes on gold to help you make informed choices this festive season. Understanding Tax on Gold Jewelry: Long-Term and Short-Term Capital Gains If you buy gold jewelry and decide to sell it later, you’ll be subject to…

The recent downward trends in the stock market have left many mutual fund investors concerned. Those investing through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) may feel the impact of stock market dips directly, causing unease over potential losses. But there is a practical solution for SIP investors who want to avoid halting their investments altogether: the SIP pause option. This facility, provided by most fund houses, allows investors to temporarily pause their SIPs, helping manage their financial health without compromising long-term investment goals. Here’s how it works and when it can be a valuable option. Understanding SIP Pause Option: An Investor’s Tool…

IPO investments often create a buzz in the stock market, especially when a reputed company launches its initial public offering (IPO). In high-demand IPOs, it’s not uncommon for the issue to become oversubscribed, meaning more people apply for shares than are available. This scenario raises a question for many retail investors: How exactly are IPO shares allotted when demand exceeds supply? Here’s a breakdown of the process companies use to decide share allotment, especially in cases of oversubscription. What is an IPO and Why Does It Get Oversubscribed? An initial public offering (IPO) marks a private company’s first step in…