Himali Patel

Estimate annual mileage carefully, choose the right slab and check top-up terms

With demat account openings rising, investors should choose brokers based on trading style, platform reliability, costs, margin rules and safety record

Compare portfolio mix, risk and costs; keep exposure small and invest with a long horizon

Compare rates, choose a short tenure, make a larger down payment, and keep EMI within manageable limits

Balanced advantage funds are raising equity exposure, but investors must assess allocation models, portfolio risks and downside protection-not just past returns

Avoid chasing the rally; stagger fresh investments and rebalance if gold exceeds your target allocation

Nearly 88% of individual F&O traders lost money in FY26. High leverage, frequent trading and behavioural mistakes can amplify losses, making disciplined risk management essential

Forgotten bank deposits can remain claimable even after transfer to the DEA Fund. Knowing how to search UDGAM and navigate nominee or legal-heir rules can make recovery easier

Maintaining exposure across various market-cap categories is important as leadership can change during different market phases

RBI's binding rules on recovery will restrict contact hours and recovery-agent conduct, while safeguarding against wrongful device locking, but third-party agents could pose challenges.

Compare capital needs, liquidity, diversification and risks before selecting an investment route

Low policy persistency often reflects unsuitable product choices. Careful evaluation of insurance needs, affordability and investment goals can help policyholders avoid lapses and stay invested.

With international mutual funds shut for fresh SIPs, GIFT City IFSC funds offer Indian investors a new route to global diversification through the LRS framework

Use them as part of a portfolio containing multiple factor strategies

Check the underlying index and concentration, and invest for at least five years

Providing incomplete or inaccurate information can have penal consequences

They should be used as top-ups, not as the base cover for providing long-term protection to the family

Relying on generic cards that offer flat, low reward rates can reduce your savings

Check post-tax returns, and preferably hold till maturity to reduce interest-rate risk

After a sharp rebound in recent months, smallcap funds are back in favour. Experts weigh the opportunities, risks and suitability for different investors