rediffGURU Jinal Mehta answers readers' financial planning and health insurance queries
When investing in fixed-income products, balancing considerations like safety, liquidity, and income is essential.
'Young investors should focus more on equity, while retired senior citizens should prioritise fixed income.' 'Mid-career investors should aim for a balanced allocation.'
'There is more expansion in the industry happening in retail lines, so we will continue to focus on those lines.'
Consider a combination of a base policy and a super top-up policy.
'Non-par plans returns are not market-linked. Hence, they can offer guaranteed returns.'
'Sector funds like IT funds should be included only in the satellite portfolio.' 'Limit your exposure to IT sector funds to around 5-10 per cent of your equity portfolio.'
Investors need to evaluate how they stack up against other high credit quality fixed-income options before putting money in them.
Young investors could allocate in the proportion of 70:20:10 to equity, debt and gold.
Rakesh Kaul, CDO, Edelweiss General Insurance, answers your health insurance queries.
Make sure you read the policy wording. Some policies cover pre-existing diseases while others don't. Many need a minimum 24-hour hospitalisation, advises Bindisha Sarang.
Firm offers no-pain switch from company cover.
It is advisable to avoid a fund until it develops a track record.
The company is also planning to roll out three more products during the next financial year.
With the wedding season already in full swing, a few things to keep in minutes financially when tying the knot, advises Bindisha Sarang.
Health insurance expert Anil Rego in an online chat with readers answers health insurance queries.
EV players suggest a reduction in the goods and services tax on batteries from 18 to 5 per cent as it would help push demand.
Given its focus on the real estate sector, financial planners feel this scheme is not meant for first-time investors and any investor should only have 5 to 10 per cent exposure to this fund.
'Children should include their parents in the group health insurance cover provided by the employer at the earliest.' 'However, the elderly should not depend on it alone and should also buy a personal health cover,' suggests Sanjay Kumar Singh.
Don't let knotty financial issues weaken your marital bond. Heavy liabilities of one partner have the potential to sour a new relationship. So, develop a plan for how you will deal with these.
Staying healthy is good news for the insurance company as well since it implies lower claims. Insurance companies offer discounts anywhere between 8 And 30 per cent discount on premium.
If new goals have emerged, this is the time to make fresh investments.
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