Your Money

A card with zero cross-currency conversion charge will allow you to load US dollars and then spend in any currency without incurring further charges

Beware that funds with higher exposure to mid- and smallcaps are likely to be more volatile

From credit scores and co-borrowers to collateral, margin money and tax benefits, understanding these education loan misconceptions can help borrowers avoid costly mistakes

Annuitise only essential expenses, retain liquidity and compare payout options and rates before purchase

Use them as part of a portfolio containing multiple factor strategies

Those who do not understand the underlying equity and debt indices should stay away

Credit utilisation ratio should remain below 30%

Providing incomplete or inaccurate information can have penal consequences

Use registered platforms, report every trade and maintain a complete audit trail

Assess the policy's returns, risks and liquidity restrictions, and ensure that you can sustain the premiums throughout its term

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

The RBI Integrated Ombudsman Scheme, 2026, introduces higher compensation, shorter complaint timelines and a streamlined grievance process for customers of regulated entities

Check both equity and debt portfolios before investing

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

Compare nearby projects, negotiate the overall deal and not just the base price, and choose developers with strong delivery records to secure better value

If you must sign to get possession from the developer, record in writing that you are accepting possession without prejudice to your right to seek compensation

Keep the core allocation in short- to medium-duration funds; match fund maturity with financial goals

Multi-year health insurance plans offer premium stability and upfront discounts, but buyers should weigh flexibility, portability and future healthcare needs

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