Business cycle funds aim to optimise returns by aligning their portfolios with different phases of the economic cycle. First-time investors, those who prefer stable sector allocations, and those averse to volatility should steer clear of them.
'If you invest in a rush at the last moment, you could compromise on selecting the best tax-saving options.'
New investors should gradually build a 5 to 10 per cent allocation to gold.
Goldman Sachs expects gold to reach $3,150 per ounce in the international market by December 2025, up around 19.1 per cent from its current level of $2,645, according to a recent report in Business Standard. Domestically, gold is trading at Rs 76,018 per 10 grams after delivering a remarkable 21.9 per cent return in the past year.
Link your UPI app to a separate bank account or wallet that has only a limited sum.
'Investors may have made money in mid and smallcaps due to market momentum, but now they need to focus on fundamentals.'
In addition to interest rates, review the fine print for penalties and repayment terms, and select a reputable lender to avoid harsh recovery practices.
Ensure the sum insured for the super topup is enough to cover even worst-case scenarios.
Cardiac care plans are ideal for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or a family history of heart issues. Those who can't get coverage under a comprehensive plan should opt for these plans.
Only investors with knowledge of cryptocurrencies, long-term conviction, and a long horizon should invest in this asset class.
'They take care of the problem: How can I ensure my child's education and other goals are not compromised, even if I am not around?'
'Arbitrage funds make the most sense for those in the 30 per cent tax bracket, are viable for those in the 20 per cent bracket, but less so for those in the 10 per cent bracket.'
Investors should match their investment horizon with the fund's portfolio duration.
'Investors with foreign currency-denominated goals, such as foreign education or foreign travel, should go for US equity funds.'
'A dynamic bond fund acts like a gilt fund in a rate cut scenario and like a conservative short-term bond fund when rates rise.'
'Assess the property in terms of type, size, location and price point, and whether it fits into your budget.' 'If it checks out on these fronts, one may consider the accompanying offers.'
Invest with a 5 to 7 year horizon so that you are able to ride out price volatility and benefit from the long-term trends of demand and macroeconomic shifts.
If you lack an emergency fund or it is depleted, use part of your bonus to build or replenish it.
Using credit or debit cards abroad can prove costly.
'When interest rates rise, the NAVs of these funds will fall.' However, they won't fall as much as longer-duration funds.