Festive shopping on EMIs and credit cards can leave households struggling with debt after Diwali. A clear repayment plan, prioritising expensive loans and refinancing wisely can help borrowers regain control of their finances.
Young investors with long horizons and small investment amounts stand to benefit most from choosing direct plans.
New investors should avoid a lumpsum investment after last year's big rally. Limit gold to 5 to 10 per cent of the portfolio and hold for 5 to 10 years.
Check the medical records carefully, particularly the discharge summary.
'Many women lose control of properties after their husband's death.'
Buyers need to assess whether an OPD policy offers them enough usable benefits to justify the additional premium.
Multiple borrowings and weak cash flows are causing repayment delays among gold loan borrowers.
More important than the offer is whether the developer can deliver the home as promised.
Unlimited health insurance plans offer a financial cushion against mounting medical bills, but buyers must look beyond the coverage amount and understand the fine print, including exclusions, waiting periods, and co-payments, before committing to the high premiums.
Choose a car loan that fits your budget, keeps EMIs manageable and saves you money on interest, not just one with attractive festive offers.
'Read the prospectus as a capital allocator deciding whether the business deserves your capital at the offered price.'
'Existing borrowers who have surplus cash should make partial loan prepayments to offset the impact of rising EMIs and reduce the overall interest burden.'
Compare premiums, claim settlement ratios, exclusions, waiting periods and surrender provisions.
If a bank sold the policy, complain to its grievance cell and, if necessary, escalate the complaint to the Reserve Bank of India Ombudsman.
Dig into the prospectus. Use the prospectus to understand the business and its risks.
Buyers should check their scope and triggers and whether they need such policies alongside their regular health insurance.
Examine the complete title chain to establish how the present owner acquired the property.
Do not share OTPs, PINs, authentication codes, card numbers, card verification values (CVVs), KYC details, security answers, Internet-banking passwords or Aadhaar-based authentication credentials through SMS, e-mail or phone calls.
'Every period of excessive optimism eventually gives way to a correction, while periods of extreme pessimism often create the best investment opportunities.'
List all unavoidable expenses such as rent, groceries, transportation, education and medical bills.
