Karthik Jerome

Bear in mind that substantial changes in a revised return can invite closer examination by tax authorities

If going from a 2-BHK to a 3-BHK pushes the EMI beyond comfort, the bigger house becomes a risk rather than a solution

When building a portfolio, diversify by market cap, style, and geography to minimise chances of overlap

Poor sector and stock selection calls can, however, lead to underperformance

Investing systematically can help investors benefit from volatility rather than be overwhelmed by it

Be warned that incomplete, outdated and inconsistent documents can delay loan approval and disbursal

Do not chase past returns, as the interest-rate environment that produced them no longer exists and gains from falling rates are largely behind investors

A high credit score is critical as it enables the borrower to secure the new loan at an attractive rate

Factoring in only domestic inflation could lead to a shortfall

Balanced Advantage Funds have had a weak year, but advisors warn against knee-jerk exits, saying investors should stay invested unless a fund persistently lags peers and benchmarks

With waiting periods and sub-limits, experts advise early planning and careful policy checks to manage delivery expenses

New investors entering now should be cognisant of high volatility, regulatory risks and cybersecurity threats

Maintain allocation to these higher-growth segments because of their potential to offer superior returns over the long term

In particular, avoid room rent caps that lead to proportionate deduction

If loan growth does not rise towards the 12-13 per cent range, valuations may shrink

India's retirement readiness improves with the IRIS Index rising to 48; health and financial awareness up but emotional well-being remains a concern, says Axis Max Life

Curtail new discretionary spending until existing EMIs are cleared; use secured loans to clear high-cost debts

Those unable to withstand periods of underperformance may avoid these funds

Instead of falling prey to FOMO and diving in headlong, new investors should enter gradually and with a long horizon

Sebi's 2025 survey finds most Indians prioritise capital preservation; experts say align risk with time horizon and personal comfort level