Personal Finance

Repay loans on time, keep credit utilisation below 30%, and avoid too many applications within a short period

Choosing the right NPS fund manager requires evaluating returns, risk, and portfolio strategy across equity, debt, and government securities for long-term stability

The exuberance seen in 2023 and early 2024 is no longer evident. Elevated property prices have strained affordability and slowed down the pace of transactions

A personal loan can be very useful in a sudden funds crunch, but may carry higher interest rates due to the higher risk it carries

Second homes across India are increasingly seen as income assets, with buyers balancing lifestyle aspirations and rental yields amid rising demand for managed villas and short-term stays

New investors may make a staggered entry with a horizon that matches these funds' portfolio maturity

Holding gold and global assets can help Indian investors hedge against rupee depreciation, manage inflation risks, and meet dollar-denominated goals such as overseas education and travel

Sophisticated investors who manage diversified portfolios and don't wish to outsource asset allocation may avoid them

Employers are using credit history to assess candidates for roles involving clients' money, credit decisions, and sensitive financial data

Term insurance becomes crucial after 30 as premiums rise with age; locking in early ensures stable costs and financial protection for dependents, helping secure long-term goals and liabilities

Real estate investors gain long-term certainty as new tax rules prioritise policy stability and streamlined compliance for NRI transactions

With high-value immovable property gifts now under SFT reporting, scrutiny will rise, making accurate disclosure of such transactions in income tax returns increasingly important

Existing investors who have become overweight after the bull run of the past year should book partial profits and rebalance

Diversify internationally, continue SIPs in equity funds, and move towards medium and shorter-duration debt funds

Maintain a liquidity buffer in case you get a margin call due to falling gold prices

Disclose the property every year under Schedule FA of your income-tax return

Senior citizens get a slightly higher rate of interest on fixed deposits across public and private banks, as well as NBFCs

Indian art is moving beyond aesthetics into portfolios, as wealthy investors seek diversification, cultural capital, and long-term value in an asset class once seen as niche

Availing of this facility without a clear repayment plan can lead to financial stress and higher borrowing costs over time, experts warn

To protect insurance policies purchased for spouse from recovery proceedings, place it under Married Women's Property Act