Himali Patel

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

If you give greater priority to flexibility, then opt for a term insurance plan

While active smallcap funds have traditionally outperformed benchmarks, passive and smart-beta options offer lower costs and diversified exposure. The choice depends on investor preference and convict

Before filing ITRs, salaried taxpayers should reconcile Form 16 and Form 16A with AIS, Form 26AS and personal records to avoid errors and notices

Check the track record of the factor combination, tracking error and expense ratio before investing

The performance of these funds will hinge on a strong earnings recovery

Taking a rupee loan and deciding a loan amount based on conservative estimates of earnings prospects should keep you safe

Instead of borrowing to the hilt, maintain a buffer to avoid margin calls during spells of market volatility

India's gold recycling market is expanding rapidly as rising prices push households to exchange old jewellery, but customers must watch for purity checks, deductions and opaque valuation practices