Category Archives: Finance

With the tremendous growth of the technology industry, tech stocks have established a solid footing in the stock market, making it an attractive yet challenging place for first-time investors.   ETFs (exchange-traded funds) can significantly simplify the investing process. ETFs tempt investors who want to minimize the risk of engaging in individual securities while generating income over time.   Tech industry exchange-traded funds (ETFs) trade in shares of electronics and information technology manufacturers and service providers, which make up the technology sector.   This industry's technological solutions vary from consumer items to enterprise software. These companies' stocks often trade at high earnings multiples compared to other sectors and have a history of driving market cycles.   Small-cap and microcap companies, as well as large-cap and microcap companies like Apple Inc. (AAPL), Microsoft Corp. (MSFT), and Alphabet Inc. (GOOG), contribute to the sector's outlook and growth.  What are technology ETFs? Technology ETFs could be an excellent place to start for market players interested in investing in this industry. Continue reading to learn more about what you should know before buying a technology ETF.  There are roughly 110 technology ETFs in the United States, according to ETF.com. Some are focused on specific sectors, like artificial intelligence ETFs or fintech ETFs, but the Invesco QQQ Trust ETF is the largest technology ETF with remarkable capital gains (NASDAQ: QQQ).   It had US $195.26 billion in assets under management as of February 4, 2022.  Despite the generic nature of most tech ETFs, investors still have the option of selecting the market that most interests them. Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: FB) are among the most crucial tech businesses tracked by the iShares US Technology ETF (ARCA: IYW).  The PureFunds ISE Mobile Payments ETF (ARCA: IPAY), which tracks the mobile payments industry, is another ETF that monitors a specific market within the tech sector. PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL), Mastercard (NYSE: MA), and Visa are among its top holdings (NYSE: V).  There are several high-performing options for investors wishing to obtain exposure to the lucrative semiconductor business, including the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ: SOXX) the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ: SMH), and the Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3x Shares (NYSE AMERICAN: SOXL).  Source: pixabay Based on data obtained from the ETF database as of February 2022, some of the better ETFs are ParameterTechnology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK)First Trust NASDAQ Technology Dividend Index Fund (TDIV)ProShares S&P Technology Dividend Aristocrats Fund (TDV)IssuerState StreetFirst TrustProSharesPerformance Over One-Year12.6%11.8%10.5%Expense Ratio0.10%0.50%0.45%Annual Dividend Yield 0.67%1.78%1.11%Three-Month Average Daily Volume13,524,775106,04812,147Assets Under Management$45.9 billion$1.8 billion$110.7 millionInception DateDec. 16, 1998Aug. 13, 2012Nov. 5, 2019 XLK tracks the Technology Select Sector Index, broadly indicative of the S&P 500 Index's technology sector.   Companies involved in technology hardware, storage, peripherals; software; communications equipment; semiconductors and semiconductor equipment; and various related services are the focus of the fund.  TDIV follows the NASDAQ Technology Dividend Index, an index of technology and communications businesses listed on the NASDAQ, NYSE, or NYSE Amex.   Companies must meet minimum market capitalization, average daily dollar trading volume, and yield standards to be included in the index and have paid an ordinary dividend in the previous 12 months.  How ETFs are different from mutual funds? Read More TDV invests in the S&P Technology Dividend Aristocrats Index, which comprises well-established technology companies that have grown their dividends for at least seven years.   The index's companies have solid fundamentals and a successful growth and profitability track record. The data processing and outsourced services firms, semiconductors, and tech hardware, storage, and peripheral companies are the significant holdings of the large-cap growth fund.  Even if investors are unsure about market intricacies, tech ETFs can help them get started. They're seen as a safe and straightforward method to start in the industry, with a better chance of making a profit.   Market participants who want more control over their technology stock investments should go elsewhere. ETF shares don't provide much flexibility because they simply track an index or commodity. FAQs What are technology ETFs? Technology ETFs could be an excellent place to start for market players interested in investing in this industry. Continue reading to learn more about what you should know before buying a technology ETF.  There are roughly 110 technology ETFs in the United States, according to ETF.com. Are ETFs a good investment for a new investor? Exchange Traded Funds are usually considered to be low-risk investments as not only are they low-cost but also hold various stocks and securities, thus increasing diversification. How to invest in ETFs? You can invest in ETFs using the EduFund App. All you need is a US account to start investing. Get started using this link - https://edufund.in/us-market TALK TO AN EXPERT

Investing in US stocks offers numerous benefits like exposure to the world’s largest and fastest growing economy, a chance to invest in the US dollar, and attractive returns from big companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Tesla. This article explores the benefits of US investments, why it is the right time to invest in the USA from India, and the ease of investing globally in our times. Benefits of US investments  The benefits of investing in US stocks from India can bring about several advantages. Here are some significant advantages to think about:  Diversification: Investing in US stocks allows for portfolio diversification. By adding US stocks to your investment mix, you can reduce the risk associated with having a concentrated portfolio solely focused on Indian stocks. Diversification across different markets can help mitigate the impact of market fluctuations and economic conditions.  Access to Global Giants: The US stock market is home to numerous multinational corporations and tech giants, such as Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. Investing in these companies provides an opportunity to be a part of their growth and success. These global giants often lead innovation, enjoy stable financials, and may provide potential long-term growth prospects.  Exposure to Different Sectors: The US market encompasses a wide range of sectors, including technology, healthcare, finance, and consumer goods. By investing in US stocks, you can gain exposure to industries that may not be as prevalent or well-developed in the Indian market. This diversification across sectors can help you capture opportunities and reduce sector-specific risks.  Stable and Mature Market: The US stock market is one of the most established and regulated markets globally. It has a long history of stability, investor protection, and transparency. This stability can instill confidence in investors, especially those seeking a secure investment environment.  Why is investing important?  Investing plays a crucial role in wealth creation and financial planning. Here's why investing is important for individuals in India:  Wealth Accumulation: By investing, you can increase your wealth over time. By investing your savings wisely, you have the potential to earn higher returns than traditional savings accounts. Through compounding, your investments can generate additional income, helping you achieve your financial goals.  Beat Inflation: Inflation erodes the purchasing power of money over time. Investing in avenues that generate returns above the inflation rate helps preserve the value of your wealth. By investing in the US market, you can explore opportunities for potentially higher returns and hedge against inflation risks.  Invest in USA with EduFund Can I invest in US Stocks from India?  Yes, as an investor in India, you can invest in US stocks through various channels:  Direct Stock Purchase Plans (DSPPs): Some US companies offer DSPPs, which allow international investors to buy their stocks directly. This enables you to invest in specific US companies without going through a broker.  Global Depository Receipts (GDRs) and American Depository Receipts (ADRs): GDRs and ADRs are financial instruments that represent shares of foreign companies listed on US stock exchanges. They provide an indirect way for Indian investors to invest in US stocks.  Mutual Funds and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Several Indian mutual funds and ETFs provide exposure to US stocks. By investing in these funds, you can gain access to a diversified portfolio of US stocks managed by professionals.  EduFund's US Investment page offers Indian investors a comprehensive platform to explore and invest in the US stock market. With expert guidance, diversified portfolios, and a focus on long-term growth, EduFund empowers individuals to capitalize on the benefits and opportunities of US investments. So, if you're looking for a US investment page then consider ours.  Invest in the US market: A world of Opportunities  Investing in the US market opens up a world of opportunities for investors in India. The benefits of US investments, including diversification, access to global giants, exposure to different sectors, and a stable market environment, make it an attractive option. With various investment channels available, Indian investors can explore the US stock market and potentially benefit from its growth and performance.  The growth potential of US stocks  One of the key reasons why investing in US stocks from India is appealing is the growth potential these stocks offer. The US economy has a track record of consistent growth, and its stock market has demonstrated resilience and the ability to recover from downturns. This growth potential can translate into attractive returns for investors.  The US stock market is known for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. It is home to a vibrant ecosystem of startups and established companies that continuously strive for technological advancements and market dominance. By investing in US stocks, Indian investors can participate in the growth of these dynamic companies, potentially benefiting from their success stories.  Moreover, the US market provides access to a large consumer base. The country's robust consumer spending and high standard of living create a favorable environment for companies to thrive. Investing in US stocks allows Indian investors to tap into the purchasing power and consumption patterns of American consumers, which can present lucrative opportunities.  What is the US Stock market timing? Read More Global economic influence  The US economy holds a significant influence on the global stage. As the world's largest economy, its performance and policies have far-reaching effects on financial markets worldwide. By investing in US stocks, Indian investors can align themselves with this influential market and leverage its economic impact.  The US dollar is also the main reserve currency in the globe. Investing in US stocks exposes investors to currency fluctuations, providing an additional avenue for potential gains. The value of the US dollar against the Indian rupee can impact the returns on US investments, offering opportunities for diversification and currency-related profits.  Mitigating risk through research and expertise  Investing in any market comes with risks, and the US market is no exception. However, with proper research, due diligence, and professional guidance, investors can mitigate these risks and make informed investment decisions.  To invest in US stocks successfully, it is crucial to stay updated on market trends, economic indicators, company fundamentals, and geopolitical developments. Various financial research platforms, brokerage firms, and investment advisors provide valuable insights and analysis to assist investors in navigating the US market effectively.  Furthermore, leveraging the expertise of fund managers and portfolio managers who specialize in US investments can be beneficial. Mutual funds and ETFs focused on US stocks often have experienced investment professionals who actively manage portfolios, aiming to generate favorable returns for investors while minimizing risks.  Conclusion Investing in US stocks from India provides an array of benefits, including diversification, access to global giants, exposure to different sectors, and potential for growth. With research and guidance, Indian investors can seize opportunities in the dynamic US market for long-term financial success. 

In this article, we will discuss key factors of investing. This article will make it easier for you to make intelligent investment decisions.   Everybody wants to become wealthy quickly and have a lavish lifestyle, but as we all know, Rome was not built in a day. You must have patience, practice financial discipline, and most importantly, make sensible investments if you want to become wealthy.   5 Factors of Investing   1. Have a clear financial plan Investments made without a purpose are of no use. Therefore, the secret to your financial success is a solid financial strategy.   Your existing income, obligations and short-term and long-term goals should all be accounted for in a sound financial plan. Most significantly, your financial strategy should be on the basis of your financial objectives, risk tolerance, and capacity for bearing losses.   Only once you have a detailed financial blueprint should you move forward with your investments.  2. Start early As emphasized by us in many previous blogs, starting investments at an early age is a considerable advantage for you because your money gets much more time to show the compounding effect.   The early investment allows you to use compounding - reinvesting your investment profit to increase your earnings.   The first is reinvestment and the second is time - both essential factors for compounding to function.  Example: Let us understand this with an example - Reshma invests Rs 10,000 at 6% in her first year of investing. Instead of taking out the Rs 600 (Rs 10,000x1.06) that she earned in year one, she reinvests it in the same instrument.   Assuming the interest rate remains the same, she earns Rs 11,236 (Rs10,600x1.06) by year two. Thus, just by staying invested, her money begins to compound, and her wealth increases yearly – this is called the Power of Compounding.  3. Diversification Proper asset allocation is a crucial aspect of investing. No matter how appealing the profits may seem, you should never put all your eggs in one basket.   Your risk is distributed when you invest across asset classes like equity, debt, commodities, and real estate - because different asset classes carry varying levels of risk and do not necessarily move in the same direction.   Source: pixabay 4. Beware of Inflation Your assets may lose value rather than gain if you do not invest your hard-earned cash wisely this is a result of inflation, which is the gradual increase in prices that can reduce the purchasing power of your money.  Let us observe what happens. Say A hides 50,000 rupees in a mattress for 15 years. In 15 years, the value of money would have been rupees 23,160 if the average annual inflation rate were considered 5%.  Therefore, you mustn't let your money sit about idly; instead, choose investments that outperform or at the very least stay up with inflation.   5. Stay invested for the long term You should always keep your long-term objectives, such as purchasing a home, funding your children's education, getting married, and retiring, while making investments.   Avoid letting market highs and lows derail your course toward achieving the long-term objectives that you have set.   The ideal course of action for you is to make a predetermined investment plan where you decide on a predetermined amount of money to be put across various asset classes in inflation-adjusted instruments.   Investments must be made in a disciplined manner over some time without being distracted from your long-term goals. FAQs What are the key factors to consider before investing? The key factors to consider before investing are your financial goals, your risk factor, the time horizon of investment, your investment amount, and your portfolio management. What are the 5 golden rules of investing? The 5 golden rules of investing are - knowledge of investing, keeping track of your investments, diversification, understanding the risk involved, and investing for the long term. Does inflation impact your investments? Yes, inflation has a huge impact on your investments. This is why choosing the right type of investment for the long-run is important. Investors are encouraged to invest in assets that can yield returns that beat inflation so that their money holds value in the long term horizon. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

ETFs (exchange-traded funds) are a straightforward method to begin investing. ETFs are easy to understand and can generate significant returns with little cost or effort.  Here is everything you need to know about ETFs, including how they work and how to do investing in US ETFs. What is an exchange-traded fund (ETF)?  An ETF, an exchange-traded fund, enables investors to buy many shares or bonds at once. Investors purchase ETF shares, and the funds are employed to invest in a specific way.   If you buy a Nasdaq 100 ETF, your money is put in the index's 100 companies. The ETF trading on the exchange is precisely like a regular stock.   Throughout the trading day, ETFs are bought and sold, and the price of an ETF share might swing above or below its net asset value (NAV) according to supply and demand.  Although ETFs and Mutual Funds appear to be similar on the surface, both are bundles of assets in which thousands of owners regularly invest; they have a few key differences.   Mutual Funds, for example, are usually actively managed. Unlike ETFs, which trade continuously throughout the day, mutual funds are transacted once daily.   Mutual fund prices are determined once every 24 hours based on the NAV at the end of the trading day.  ETFs have two categories: passive and active. Passive ETFs (also known as index funds) monitor a stock index like the S&P 500. Passive ETFs replicate the performance of an index. Active ETFs hire portfolio managers to invest their money. Active ETFs aim to outperform a benchmark index.  5 Steps on how to Invest in US ETFs The first step is to open an account with a brokerage firm. This account can be used to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, commodities contracts, and other securities. For all deposits, the broker acts as a custodian. A broker which provides services in India and the USA must be selected.  Make an ETF investment strategy that suits your goals and risk profile.  Once the investor decides on his investment strategy, he should focus on the ETFs. He should research the various types of ETFs available in the market.  The final step in the ETF purchase process is to purchase the ETF. The investor must first deposit monies into the brokerage account from which the purchase will be performed. After ensuring that the funds are sufficient, the investor must look for the ETF ticker symbol and make a buy order. The investor must also specify the number of ETF shares he wants to buy. ETF shares cannot be purchased in fractions in most cases. Confirm the order.   Since the investor has purchased the shares, he must prepare an exit strategy for minimizing losses (if any) or minimizing capital gains taxes.  What to look for in the ETFs before buying/investing?  Expense ratio: Expenses eat into the earnings of the investor, so the smaller the expense ratio, the better. In addition, an investor should consider the costs charged by an ETF to maintain a portfolio.  ETFs often have lower costs than actively managed funds since they track an underlying index. When purchasing specialty ETFs, however, an investor must use caution.  Volume: ETF volume reflects the ETF's trading potential and, as a result, its liquidity. Higher volume means lower spreads and more liquidity.  Underlying Holdings: Look at the underlying holdings of the ETF.   Performance: Look at the fund's past performance and compare that to its peers.   Market price: An ETF should ideally trade near its NAV. Before making any acquisitions, investors should consider the NAV.   Beta: Beta measures how much security is likely to go up or down daily concerning the tracking Index. It is, in essence, a measure of a security market or systemic risk.   For example, a stock having a beta =1.0 swings in tandem with the general market, so a 1% increase or decrease in the underlying index is mirrored by a 1% gain or fall in the ETF's price.  Alpha: Alpha is referred to as 'excess return', which measures the return earned by a stock above or below the market's demand for its risk class.  Age of the ETFs: The age of the fund can be used as a proxy for the reliability of the fund. A fund that has been around for a considerable time must have a proven track record.   Why should you invest in US ETFs?  All key US stock exchanges have companies listed worldwide, making it a potential investment destination. If you invest in the US share market, you diversify your financial portfolio while investing in worldwide companies.   The equity market in the United States is the largest in the world. The US financial markets accounted for 54.5 percent of worldwide stock market value as of December 2021.  Investments in US stocks can help you get a good return on your money because global corporations are there, and the return you receive will be high due to various factors.  Unlike India, you can hold US stocks in fractions. After all, buying a single Google share is out of range for most individuals. You can own a part of the company for as little as Rs 1,000 or even less.  According to historical data, the Indian Rupee has been losing value against the US dollar, and there is a probability that this trend may continue.  The rupee-to-dollar exchange rate influences the profit you make from foreign equities. Any rupee weakening helps boost profits if dollar-denominated investments such as US shares appreciate.   Even if global markets are disappointed or remain steady, you benefit if the rupee falls against the dollar.  How to send money to the United States?  All residents, including minors, are entitled to freely transmit up to USD 2,50,000 per financial year (April – March) for any permissible current or capital account transaction, or a combination of both, under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme.  Furthermore, residents can use the foreign exchange facility for up to USD 2,50,000 for the purposes listed in paragraph 1 of Schedule III of the FEM (CAT) Amendment Rules 2015, dated May 26, 2015.  Indian residents can use the LRS to send money overseas for tourism, education, medical treatment, stock and property purchases, care of family living abroad, presents, and donations.   Individuals may also create, manage, and retain foreign currency deposits with foreign banks to conduct transactions. The scheme does not cover corporations, partnerships, trusts, etc.  All about taxation when investing in the US Market Let us sum up the taxation aspect in an easy-to-understand flowchart  1. Dividends  An intended distribution of a company's profit to its shareholders is known as a dividend. You must thus pay the tax on the dividend you receive because your investment is lucrative.  2. Capital gains on the sale  You can choose to make money or lose money when you sell a stock. If you experience a loss, no tax is owed; but, if you experience a profit, you must pay capital gains tax.  The capital gains tax rate is based on how long the stock has been held. Foreign investors in US stocks are not subject to the country's capital gains tax. However, the Capital Gains Tax plan in India requires you to pay taxes.  a) Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Rate (LTCG)  If you own a stock for more than 24 months, the profit from selling it would be taxed at the Long-Term Capital Gains rate in India. Long-term capital gains are taxed at a rate of 20%. (Plus, any additional surcharge and cess).  b) Short-Term Capital Gains Tax Rate (STCG)  If a sale is made before the 24-month period, it will be considered normal income, and the tax rate will depend on your tax bracket.  Understanding some critical ETF terms  Smart Beta ETFs - "Factor-based" or "Strategic Beta" ETFs are other names for Smart Beta ETFs. These ETFs wisely select their underlying assets in keeping with their namesake.  These ETFs choose the primary assets based on factors other than market capitalization.  ETF liquidity - 2 different types of allied liquidities - Primary and Secondary.  Primary Liquidity is the Liquidity associated with the ease of creating and redeeming ETF shares with the help of underlying securities.   The Liquidity of the underlying securities plays a significant role in determining the Liquidity of the ETF shares in the primary market.  Secondary Liquidity is the Liquidity associated with the already created ETF shares in the stock market. This Liquidity is generally the visible Liquidity on the market.   The non-institutional investors or investors with a smaller scale of operations generally are concerned with this type of liquidity. Investors buy and sell ETF units on the secondary market without the involvement of the ETF issuer.  Tracking difference - which can be either positive or negative, indicates how well a fund has outperformed or underperformed its benchmark index.   It's derived by subtracting the fund's total return from the benchmark's total.  Tracking error - reflects how much variability occurs among the individual data points that make up the fund's average tracking difference.  The value of a fund's assets subtracted the value of its liabilities is known as net asset value (NAV). The term "net asset value" is frequently used in the context of mutual funds and ETFs, and it refers to the value of the assets owned in the fund.  If the ETF's price is higher than its NAV, it is considered to be trading at a "premium." In contrast, if the ETF's price is below its NAV, the ETF is considered to be trading at a "discount." Spread - At any given point in the market, there are two prices: the sale price, i.e., 'ask' and the other to buy, i.e., 'bid'. Buyers of ETFs aim to pay a fair price and, if possible, a discount on the market price of the core securities in the ETF, while sellers want to get the highest price -leading to the existence of spreads.   International investments allow you to diversify your portfolio and acquire exposure to new markets. Geographic diversification can help mitigate country risk, such as the chance of bad events affecting India's domestic economy.   Furthermore, when comparing investing in Indian vs US markets, US stocks have traditionally displayed lower volatility, higher returns, and greater foreign exposure.  FAQs What is an exchange-traded fund (ETF)? An ETF, an exchange-traded fund, enables investors to buy many shares or bonds at once. Investors purchase ETF shares, and the funds are employed to invest in a specific way.   If you buy a Nasdaq 100 ETF, your money is put in the index's 100 companies. The ETF trading on the exchange is precisely like a regular stock. What to look for in the ETFs before buying/investing?  There are many parameters to look out for while buying an ETF: performance, expense ratio, volume, market holdings, age of the ETFs, etc. What are the two types of ETFs? ETFs have two categories: passive and active. Passive ETFs (also known as index funds) monitor a stock index like the S&P 500. Passive ETFs replicate the performance of an index. Active ETFs hire portfolio managers to invest their money. Active ETFs aim to outperform a benchmark index.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

Nifty50 is one of the two leading stock indices used in India. The recent volatility in the market has caused a wave of shock amongst investors and traders. This article will address what has caused the current market volatility, and how you can deal with the same with a few tricks.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdwqQH0xkFw Reasons for the tank in the markets  The bearish view tightened its grip on the Indian equity markets on 13th June, as inflation concerns and fears of aggressive interest rate hikes by the US Fed spooked investors. \Nifty tanked by 2.5%, breaking below the 15800 levels, and Sensex fell by 1500 points. All sectors bled in red, with banks, metals, and realty falling the most under selling pressure. The main reasons for this significant correction are:   High Inflation Rates: The consumer inflation rate in May, hit a 40-year high of 8.6% in the US and the CPI inflation is expected to stay above % in India.   Aggressive Rate Hikes: There was a significant gap in the markets opening on Monday. The global markets are witnessing a significant sell-off amid the fear of major interest rate hikes by the US Fed.  Crude Oil Price Volatility: Major losses were incurred by investors in the oil as both Brent Crude, and WTI Crude slipped by 1.4%.  Rupee Depreciation and FII Exit: The INR fell to a record low of Rs.78.15 against the US Dollar due to fear of high-interest rates and volatile crude oil prices. Also, there has been persistent selling of Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), which has weakened market sentiments. Nifty Performance Source: EduFund Research Team The graph shows the Nifty performance from June 2021 to June 2022.  The market fell significantly, touching the floor prices during the pandemic. Post this, the market started picking up in April 2021. The market continued to stabilize till October 2021, reaching 17500 levels. But this sweet story ended when the market faced a significant fall in November 2021.   The market rebounded in January 2022. It again reversed when the market fell to extreme lows amidst the geopolitical issues between Ukraine and Russia. It faced a significant fall in February, after which it quickly recovered in March.   But since mid-March, the market started falling due to various reasons like high inflation rates, FII exit, hikes in interest rates, and escalation of Ukraine – Russia war.   This continuous fall has led to the Nifty falling to such an extent that it reached a 0% return over one year. The dotted line on the graph shows Nifty in June 2022 at the same level as Nifty in June 2021. What can you do as an investor?  Lumpsum Investment: A lumpsum investment can help you attain units of a Mutual Fund at a relatively cheaper NAV in the current market conditions. If you have a long investment horizon and a good risk appetite, invest in mid-cap or small-cap funds, which will give you good capital growth when held for more than five years. In the case of a short to medium investment horizon, you could invest in a Hybrid fund, more like a Dynamic Asset Allocation fund, where you get the best of both equity and debt.  Rebalance your Portfolio: Now is the right time to rebalance your portfolio. If your portfolio has significant losses, you can balance it out in two ways.   You can average out your losses by buying more units of that fund or equity now at a lower price to reduce the total loss.   Allocate more funds in your portfolio to mutual funds and equity that have a value which means they have a potential for high growth and performance.  Invest in US ETFs: You can make the most of the INR depreciation by investing in the US Dollar market. There is a wide range of ETFs, namely, large-cap, small-cap, mid-cap, sectoral, etc. This is again the right time to invest in US ETFs as they are trading at significantly low prices. These funds expose you to the US Stock market with an expert managing your funds.  Power of Rebalancing  One fundamental matrix many investors use is portfolio rebalancing when there is high volatility. Portfolio rebalancing is moving closer to the initially decided asset allocation strategy.  The idea behind asset allocation is to balance risk and return in your portfolio by spreading your investment among different types of assets based on market conditions. Source: EduFund Research Team Let's assume that here you have a SIP of Rs. 20,000 monthly. The asset allocation here is taken in Equity, Gold, and Debt.   A rebalanced portfolio captures the market better during upward market movement, whereas there is a lag or shortfall in the portfolio that is not rebalanced.   Moreover, even when the market returns are negative, an actively rebalanced portfolio ensures that the equity, debt, and gold allocation is done so that the portfolio still generates a positive return and efficiently captures the market volatility.  In June 2022, the percentage of Nifty returns (1 year) was 0. The monthly Nifty returns are at –4.53%. The rebalanced portfolio is at a positive level, whereas a non-rebalanced portfolio yields negative returns.  How do advisors help you?  Investors are not required to go through the hassle of rebalancing the portfolio quarterly on their own. This is what RIAs are here for!  Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) are certified and experienced to help you with periodical portfolio rebalancing. When your portfolio is not managed actively by an RIA, your portfolio's asset allocation remains unchanged throughout the period unless and until you change it on your own. But when an RIA manages your account, your portfolio is rebalanced periodically based on the market requirements.  Therefore, having an experienced RIA with expertise in the market makes your life easier and ensures that the portfolio volatility is maintained at minimum levels even with high market volatility. FAQs What is market volatility? Market volatility is a way to track price variation in a market and to check how the market performance will change and fluctuate. How much market volatility is normal? Market volatility is fairly common. Investor should watch their investments carefully. Price fluctuations across investments, if the volatility increases to a point of bear market scenario then it's time to rethink your strategy. How can you lessen the impact of market volatility? To minimize the effect of market volatility, investors should diversify their investments, choose low-risk investment baskets, rebalance their investments to avoid loss, and keep investing for the long run with expert guidance.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

In the previous article, we discussed what is a better asset to invest in a child's future. It is common knowledge that parents should start investing in a child's education. But when should you start? How do you start? In this article, we will talk about when to start investing in a child's education. Saving up for children's education is a daunting task for parents. The question "When should you start to save for your child/children's education has a universal answer. The answer is "as early as possible".   Every parent aspires to provide their child with the most extraordinary life possible. Parents, particularly when it comes to their children's education, are always looking for methods to stay one step ahead.   Parents who take a proactive approach and invest methodically from an early age can protect their children's futures. As a result, financial planning is critical for achieving a goal as important as supporting a child's education.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUiUws6L2aY Time is the most critical component. The powerful notion of compound interest benefits you more the longer you invest.   Education costs are rising faster than inflation. As a result, the expense of sending your child to a university or college will almost certainly double every six to seven years.  Tax Benefits of Investing in Child's Education Read More An undergraduate course at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) costs around 2 Lac per year. The IIM charges roughly 20 lakhs for a two-year diploma program.   Starting investing early is the only way to protect your wealth against inflation and save enough money to send your child to a prestigious college.   While the annual rate of return and the original investments are essential, the length of time you invest the money is the most crucial element. So, if you want to put money aside for your child's education, get started immediately.  Example   Let us take an example to understand why you should not delay the investments for your child's future education:   Two mothers, Anita and Archana, want to save for their respective daughter's education. Both intend to save money and invest a lump sum of Rs 2,00,000 in equity-focused mutual funds (offering 12% per annum yearly returns).   However, the difference is that Archana made the lumpsum investment when her daughter turned ten years old, while Anita invested as soon as her daughter was born.   So, the time horizon for Archana is eight years and the time horizon for Anita is 18 years. Let us see the difference between the accumulated amount at the end for both mothers.    Anita will have Rs 15.3 lakhs for her daughter's college by the time she is 18, while Archana will have only approx. Of Rs 4.9 lakhs. In other words, by investing ten years sooner, Anita could save over three times as much as Archana.  The visual below gives a good representation of the example:  In the above example, Archana and Anita put money into the same mutual fund. The amount they invested and the rate of return were identical.   The only variation was the investment period. Anita continued to save for another ten years, but her final corpus was three times that of Archan.    For savers hoping to build money through compounding, time is everything. FAQs When to start investing in a child's education? Ideally, parents should start investing in their child's education before they are born. This can help them keep up with the rising costs of education which is growing at a faster rate of inflation than income. Planning, investing, and saving for a long duration allows one to take advantage of compounding. Why parents should invest early in their child's education? Parents should invest early in their child's education because education is costly. The cost is increasing every year due to high competition and education inflation. Saving and investing early on can help them take advantage of investment assets like mutual funds, ETFs, and stocks that can beat inflation and help them preserve the value of their money. What age is too late to start investing in your child's education? It's never too late to start investing. You can start with low-risk investments that can help you save up more in a short duration. You can consult a financial advisor to figure out your options based on your risk appetite. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

The stock market is not just a trading hub but also a real-time tool for monitoring the state's financial performance.   Having one of the strongest economies in the world, the stock markets in the United States are one of the most financially rewarding avenues for people interested in investing in company shares, derivatives, bonds, futures, commodities, and other financial instruments, which is why foreign investors keep an eye on US market trading hours.   Indian investors can now easily invest in the stock markets of the United States thanks to technological advancements. Through this article, you will get to know everything about the US stock market timing Regular trading hours in US time  The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ, in particular, open at 9.30 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. ET (Eastern Time), a time zone that encompasses the Eastern states of the United States and parts of Canada. On weekends and holidays, the stock exchanges are closed.  Every year, there are a few market half-days. Depending on the calendar, they may fall on July 3 or 5, the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas night. The NASDAQ and NYSE both close at 1 p.m. ET on certain half-days.  Regular trading hours Indian time  Investing in India is critical to account for the time difference between the United States and India. The NYSE and NASDAQ open and close at 8 p.m. (IST) and 2.30 a.m. (IST) respectively.  Due to daylight saving time, this varies throughout the year (DST).   Eastern Standard Time, or EST, is a time zone observed throughout the United States throughout the autumn and winter months.   EDT is 9.5 hours behind IST because it is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (UTC - 4).  Source: Pixabay Daylight saving time  One factor to remember when it comes to stock market timing in the United States is the effect of daylight-saving time, which occurs when the country's clocks are ahead by one hour.   DST is observed from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November. The stock markets in the United States open at 7:00 p.m. IST and close at 1:30 a.m. IST.  Eastern Daylight Time, or EDT, is observed during the summer and spring seasons. Compared to Greenwich Mean Time or UTC - 5, EST is 5 hours behind and 10.5 hours behind IST.  Pre-market and after-hours trading hours  Trading is done in the United States even outside of typical business hours. Pre-market trading runs from 8 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. ET, or 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. IST, while after-hours trading runs from 4 p.m. ET to 8 p.m. ET, or 1:30 a.m. IST to 5:30 a.m. IST.   However, one should be mindful of the hazards because of the poor liquidity, low volume of participants, and volatility associated with pre-market and after-hours trading. The investing platform will determine whether one can invest pre-market or after-hours.  The timings in IST for other US stock exchanges are given in the table below.  NameStateOpening Bell (in IST)Closing Bell (in IST)Boston Stock ExchangeMassachusettsIt was acquired by NASDAQ Inc. in 2007.Chicago Stock ExchangeIllinois7:00 PM1:30 AMInternational Securities ExchangeNew YorkIt is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NASDAQ Inc.Miami Stock ExchangeFlorida7:00 PM1:30 AMNational Stock ExchangeNew JerseyThis was acquired by the NYSE in 2017 and is now traded as NYSE National.Philadelphia Stock ExchangePennsylvaniaThis was also acquired by NASDAQ Inc. and is traded at NASDAQ as Nasdaq OMX PHLX. The two largest stock exchanges in the United States, NYSE, and NASDAQ have bought the bulk of regional stock exchanges. As a result, regional time zones do not affect the timings of US stock markets in India.  List of holidays observed by the US Stock exchange Holiday202220232024New Year’s Day—Monday, January 2 (New Year's holiday observed)Monday, January 1Martin Luther King, Jr. DayMonday, January 17Monday, January 16Monday, January 15Washington's BirthdayMonday, February 21Monday, February 20Monday, February 19Good FridayFriday, April 15Friday, April 7Friday, March 29Memorial DayMonday, May 30Monday, May 29Monday, May 27Juneteenth National Independence DayMonday, June 20 (Juneteenth holiday observed)Monday, June 19Wednesday, June 19Independence DayMonday, July 4Tuesday, July 4**Thursday, July 4**Labor DayMonday, September 5Monday, September 4Monday, September 2Thanksgiving DayThursday, November 24***Thursday, November 23***Thursday, November 28***Christmas DayMonday, December 26 (Christmas holiday observed)Monday, December 25Wednesday, December 25**** ** On Monday, July 3, 2023, and Wednesday, July 3, 2024, At 1:00 p.m., each market will close early (1:15 p.m. for qualified options).  On these dates, Crossing Session orders will be accepted starting at 1:00 p.m. for continuous executions until 1:30 p.m., while the late trading sessions for NYSE American Equities, NYSE Arca Equities, NYSE Chicago, and NYSE National will close at 5:00 p.m. All times are in Eastern Standard Time.  *** On Friday, November 25, 2022, Friday, November 24, 2023, and Friday, November 29, 2024, each market will close early at 1:00 p.m. (1:15 p.m. for qualified options) (the day after Thanksgiving).   On these dates, Crossing Session orders will be accepted starting at 1:00 p.m. for continuous executions until 1:30 p.m., while the late trading sessions for NYSE American Equities, NYSE Arca Equities, NYSE Chicago, and NYSE National will close at 5:00 p.m. All times are in Eastern Standard Time.  **** On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, each market will close early at 1:00 p.m. (1:15 p.m. for qualifying options).   On this date, Crossing Session orders will be accepted starting at 1:00 p.m. for continuous executions until 1:30 p.m., while the late trading sessions for NYSE American Equities, NYSE Arca Equities, NYSE Chicago, and NYSE National will close at 5:00 p.m. All times are in Eastern Standard Time. FAQs What are the trading hours in the USA? The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ, in particular, open at 9.30 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. ET (Eastern Time), a time zone that encompasses the Eastern states of the United States and parts of Canada. On weekends and holidays, the stock exchanges are closed. What time can Indians invest in USA stocks? Investing in India is critical to account for the time difference between the United States and India. The NYSE and NASDAQ open and close at 8 p.m. (IST) and 2.30 a.m. (IST) respectively.  What are Pre-market and after-hours trading hours in USA? Trading is done in the United States even outside of typical business hours. Pre-market trading runs from 8 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. ET, or 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. IST, while after-hours trading runs from 4 p.m. ET to 8 p.m. ET, or 1:30 a.m. IST to 5:30 a.m. IST. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

"Man is not what he thinks he is; he is what he hides." ― André Malraux.  Similar is the case with our ETFs. ETFs are not what they seem to be. Several ETFs are named similarly, which is often deceptive to a layman investor.  Investors must evaluate a variety of variables while choosing the right ETF. ETFs' costs, tracking, structure, and liquidity are all critical. Even with these factors in place, an ETF's results primarily depend on the underlying assets at the end of the day.  This article aims to help the investor know the nitty-gritty of the ETF nomenclature and why an investor should not go by just the name of the ETF and should also check under the hood.   Let's take an example and understand why this is the case. Let's take 2 ETFs tracking emerging markets:  iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG)   iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (EEM).  ParameterIEMGEEMTickeriShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG)iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (EEM)IssuerBlackrockBlackrockExpense Ratio0.11%0.68%AUM$74.02B$27.94BAverage Daily $ Volume$965.69M$2.10BUnderlying IndexMSCI Emerging Markets Investable Market IndexMSCI Emerging Markets IndexMedian Tracking Difference (12 Mo)-0.40%-1.08%5-year annualized performance7.24%6.44% Country-wise holdings:  Source: etf.com Source: etf.com Sectoral weightage:  Source: etf.com Source: etf.com The above two funds are very similar, yet they are slightly different and have given separate returns over the same period. The two funds track emerging markets and also follow the same market classification given by MSCI.   Still, they have different tracking indices, which differ very slightly. As seen above, IEMG tracks the MSCI Emerging Markets Investable Market Index, and the EEM tracks the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, which are two different indices with almost the same name!  Direct equity vs. Investment in mutual funds? Read More The case was not very severe in our example; what if the two ETFs tracking very similar markets gave drastically different returns?   Frontier markets made a big impression in 2013, outpacing the BRICs and other developing markets by a wide margin. Frontier markets are developing-world capital markets that are less developed.  Because it is too tiny, has too much inherent risk, or is too illiquid to be termed an emerging market, a frontier market is a country that is more established than least developed countries (LDCs) but yet less established than emerging markets. Pre-emerging markets are another name for frontier markets.  ETFs investment strategy for Beginners Read More The iShares Frontier 100 ETF (FM) and the Guggenheim Frontier Markets ETF are the two broad frontier market ETFs currently available (FRN).  You'd believe they're the same fund because they both claim to have broad exposure to frontier markets.   However, if you had invested in the wrong one, you would have had no idea that frontier markets performed well in 2013. FM returned over 25% in 2013, whereas FRN returned -13 %. That's a 38 percent difference in returns between the two funds!  FRN uses the BNY Mellon classification system and is only allowed to retain depositary receipts. As a result, the underlying basket gives you access to nations like Chile, Colombia, Egypt, and Peru, which account for more than 70% of FRN's weighting, even though MSCI, FTSE, and S&P all classify them as emerging.   Meanwhile, FM adheres to MSCI's classification system and is authorized to hold local securities - this gives FM a preference for Saudis like Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as African nations like Nigeria and Kenya.  The lesson here is to not assume that a fund will cover a country, sector, location, or theme precisely as you think based on its name. Checking under the hood is the key!  FAQs What is an ETF? An ETF stands for exchange-traded fund (ETF). One single ETF is a basket of securities that can be bought and sold like mutual funds through a brokerage firm. ETFs track a specific index such as S&P, sector, commodity, or other assets. Much like stocks, ETFs can be traded on the market. Are ETFs a good investment for a new investor? Exchange Traded Funds are usually considered to be low-risk investments as not only are they low-cost but also hold various stocks and securities, thus increasing diversification. How to invest in ETFs? You can invest in ETFs using the EduFund App. All you need is a US account to start investing. Get started using this link Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

How to invest in Apple from India? This is a commonly asked question amongst Indian investors. And, why not? Apple is a Cupertino, California-based global technology business that designs, develops, and sells consumer goods, computer software, and internet services.   The iPhone smartphone, iPad tablet computer, MacBook, iPod portable media player, Apple Watch smartwatch, and Apple TV digital media player are among its hardware offerings.   The macOS and iOS operating systems, the iTunes media player, the Safari web browser, and the iLife and iWork creativity and productivity suites are all part of Apple's consumer software.   The company's online services include the iTunes Store, iOS App Store, Mac App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud.  Due to the dynamic leadership provided by Apple's founders, Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, the company has experienced significant financial and marketing growth.   Apple is the most valuable corporation in the world, with revenues of $274.3 billion and a market valuation of $2.4 trillion.   The answer to the company's progress lies in its tagline, which says, 'Think Different. It's no wonder it's been able to build significant money for its investors.  Source: Pixabay There are three prime reasons why you should consider investing in Apple (APPL)  It provides geographical diversity to your portfolio  The depreciation of the rupee vis-a-vis the dollar is also a prime reason.  The shares have provided stable handsome returns in history. The annualized average returns of apples are around 30.86%, which is more than anything on the plate!  Apple is one of the few stocks that should be in every investor's portfolio. Let's first look at some basic stuff before we proceed.  Latest market close$163.1752-week range116.21 - 182.94Dividend yield 0.88%Earnings per share$6.03Beta1.19Market Capitalization$ 2695 billionAverage Volume (3m)96,177,820PE ratio 27.09 Invest in Apple from India: 3 Ways to Invest 1. Direct way  You can directly trade in Apple from India by registering on a US brokerage account using platforms that provide this service or through a foreign brokerage with a direct presence in India.   To start with this, you only need your PAN card and proof of address.  2. The ETF way  One way to invest in Apple stocks from India is through an exchange-traded fund (ETF). ETFs are a grouping of stocks and bonds traded as a single fund.   They're comparable to mutual funds because they've invested in a pool of money. ETFs, on the other hand, are exchanged on the stock exchange and offer a simple and inexpensive way to gain access to a category of market or a group of companies.   Buying an ETF via a platform is one way to invest in ETFs. You can invest in the Russell 1000 Growth ETF or the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF, which contains Apple as one of its top holdings.  Another option for investing in Apple stocks from India is to purchase ETFs that invest in US indices such as the S&P 500. Apple is a holding of the Motilal Oswal S&P 500 Index Fund.   You don't need to create a US brokerage account to invest in these ETFs. However, tracking errors in these ETFs may influence your returns.  3. The Mutual Fund way  In this case, you will be investing in Funds of Funds, a domestic mutual fund that invests in a mutual fund available in the United States.   Since an investment will be in Indian rupees, there is no investment restriction. Apple is included in several mutual funds, such as the Nippon India US Equity Opportunities Fund, ICICI Prudential US Bluechip Fund, DSP US Flexible Equity, etc. but only to a minimal level.  Furthermore, this strategy may prove to be more costly. An annual expense ratio will be needed from you. The expense ratio of these funds is typically more significant, as it includes an additional expenditure levied by the core global schemes they invest in, in addition to the usual India fund administration fee.  A note of caution here is to remember to evaluate your risk profile before purchasing any investment. Directly investing in equities like Apple would be your portfolio's more significant risk strategy. FAQs How to invest in Apple from India? There are many ways to invest in Apple from India: directly in the stocks, through mutual funds, and through ETFs. The most efficient way to invest is through the EduFund App - all you need to do is download the App, set up your US account, and then start investing in US stocks and ETFs. Can I buy Apple shares? Yes, you can buy Apple shares from a third-party brokerage like EduFund. They allow you to invest directly and indirectly via mutual funds and ETFs on the App itself. Can Indians buy stock in Apple? Yes, Indians can buy stocks in Apple Inc via EduFund. All you need to do is open a US account and start investing from the comfort of your home. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

A college cost calculator is an online tool that helps students, and their families estimate the total cost of attending college. It considers various expenses such as tuition, fees, room and board, books and supplies, and personal expenses. The calculator also considers the financial aid options available to the student, such as grants, scholarships, and student loans. The estimated cost is based on the specific college or university the student plans to attend.  Factors Considered by a College Cost Calculator  A college cost calculator considers various factors when estimating the cost of attending college. These factors include:  Tuition and Fees: The cost of tuition and fees varies from one college or university to another. The calculator considers the published tuition and fees for the specific college the student plans to attend.  Room and Board: The cost of room and board is another significant expense when attending college. The calculator estimates the cost of on-campus housing and meal plans based on the student's intended living arrangements.  Books and Supplies: Textbooks and other supplies can add up quickly. The calculator estimates the cost of books and supplies based on the student's intended major and course load.  Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as transportation and entertainment can vary greatly. The calculator estimates these expenses based on the student's residency status and lifestyle.  Financial Aid: The calculator considers the financial aid the student may be eligible for, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans.  Expected Family Contribution: The calculator considers the expected family contribution, which is the amount the student's family is expected to contribute towards the cost of attendance. This is based on the family's income and assets.  How long to invest in SIP? Read More EduFund's College Cost Calculator: How it Works?  EduFund is a platform that helps families save for their children's college education. One of the tools that EduFund offers is a college cost calculator. The EduFund college cost calculator helps families estimate the total cost of attendance for different colleges and universities and identify potential sources of financial aid. Here's how it works:  Select the College: To use the college cost calculator, the user first selects the college or university they are interested in attending.  Enter Basic Information: The user then enters some basic information about themselves, including their income, assets, and the number of children they have.  Estimate Financial Aid: Based on this information, the college cost calculator estimates the amount of financial aid the student may be eligible for. This includes scholarships, grants, and other sources of aid.  Estimate Total Cost: The college cost calculator then estimates the total cost of attendance, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and personal expenses.  Compare Schools: The user can then compare the estimated costs for different schools and make informed decisions about where to apply.  Calculate College Cost How parents gave started saving with EduFund?  Many parents have started using EduFund's college cost calculator to estimate the total cost of attendance for their children's college education. Once they have an estimate of the total cost, they can use EduFund's other tools to start saving for their children's education.  One of the benefits of using EduFund's college cost calculator is that it helps parents set realistic savings goals. By estimating the total cost of attendance and the amount of financial aid their children may be eligible for, parents can determine how much they need to save each month to cover the cost of college.  Why choose EduFund's College Cost Calculator?  There are several reasons why families should choose EduFund's college cost calculator over other similar tools. Here are a few of the main explanations:  Accuracy: EduFund's college cost calculator provides accurate estimates of the total cost of attendance and the amount of financial aid the student may be eligible for. This can help families plan their finances and make informed decisions about their higher education.  Comprehensive: The college cost calculator estimates all of the expenses associated with attending college, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and personal expenses.  User-Friendly: The college cost calculator is user-friendly and easy to navigate. This makes it easy for families to estimate the cost of attendance and start saving for their children's college education.  Customizable: The college cost calculator is customizable based on the user's unique financial situation. This ensures that the estimates provided are accurate and reflect the user's specific needs.  Additional Resources: In addition to the college cost calculator, EduFund offers other resources and tools to help families save for college. By choosing EduFund's college cost calculator, families can ensure that they are getting accurate estimates of the cost of attendance and can start saving for their children's college education with confidence.  Conclusion  EduFund's college cost calculator provides families with a powerful tool to estimate college expenses and identify potential financial aid. By leveraging accurate information, families can make informed decisions and take proactive steps toward saving for their children's education. 

In the previous article, we discussed how to finance a child's education post-pandemic. In this article, we will discuss the tax benefits of spending on a child's education. The income tax department has a particular framework for specific allowances and exemptions that you can claim on the money you earn in a financial year.   One such allowance is your child's education allowance. Everyone who plans to pay tax under this category should be aware of a lot of relevant information.   Because children's education is a significant financial investment for a parent, there are various benefits available to taxpayers.  For some salaried individuals, paying school or education fees for children can be a part of their salary structure. Let us also discuss the additional deductions available under section 80C of the Income Tax Act of 1961.   Deduction of payment made towards Tuition fees under section 80C   A parent can deduct the amount paid to a university, college or school, or other educational institution as tuition fees.   Other fees, such as development and transport, are not eligible for section 80C deductions. In a financial year, the maximum deductions on tuition price payments, coupled with other deductions for insurance, provident fund, pension, and other expenses, is Rs 1.5 lakh.  Eligibility of tuition fees for claiming this deduction Only a single parent, guardian, or sponsor is eligible for this deduction for each individual; the deduction can be for a maximum of two children. As a result, four children's deductions can be used by two parents each.   Every year, each parent can claim a deduction of up to Rupees 1.5 Lacs in total. Please note that the total deduction amount under sections 80C, 80CCC, and 80CCD for each parent cannot exceed INR 150 000.   Deductions are available regardless of whatever class the child attends. Even if connected with a foreign university, the institution or college must be located in India only. The deduction is available only for full-time educational courses.  The deduction is allowed only on a paid basis, not on a payable basis. For example, if a parent pays a fee in April 2020 for the quarter ending March 2020, the price will be eligible for a deduction in FY 2020-21.  Source: Pixabay Non-eligibility of payment toward tuition fees Payments towards development fees, donations to charities, private coaching centers, or other expenses such as hostel expenses, mess charges, library charges, or similar payments are not eligible for a deduction.   It is impossible to claim a tax deduction for fees paid for part-time courses. School fees paid for a spouse, self, brother, sister, mother, or any other relative than children are not eligible for a tax deduction.  Also, fees paid to foreign universities situated outside the geographical regions of India are not eligible for this deduction.  Tips for investing in the 30s Read More How to claim the deduction?   You have to complete a set of actions to claim tax benefits on tuition fees, and the methods outlined below will assist you in collecting your tax benefit.   To the employer, submit the receipt produced by the educational institution for the payment made in the current fiscal year before providing the proof at the end of the fiscal year.   Show the tuition fee paid in form 12BB. When submitting an income tax return, unsalaried individuals must claim the deduction under the VI-A schedule by demonstrating the fee paid under section 80C.   Note that the educational fee allowance under section 10(14) and the deduction for tuition fees under section 80C are not the same. The prescribed limits can claim the two different provisions under the Income Tax Act of 1961.   Tax deductions can help you save money during your child's early years of education. Also, you must not forget to develop a long-term strategy for higher education. FAQs How can you save taxes on your child's education expenses? For some salaried individuals, paying school or education fees for children can be a part of their salary structure. Let us also discuss the additional deductions available under section 80C of the Income Tax act of 1961.   Deduction of payment made towards Tuition fees under section 80C   A parent can deduct the amount paid to a university, college or school, or other educational institution as tuition fees.   Other fees, such as development and transport, are not eligible for section 80C deductions. In a financial year, the maximum deductions on tuition price payments, coupled with other deductions for insurance, provident fund, pension, and other expenses, is Rs 1.5 lakh. How to claim your deduction? To the employer, submit the receipt produced by the educational institution for the payment made in the current fiscal year before providing the proof at the end of the fiscal year.   Show the tuition fee paid in form 12BB. When submitting an income tax return, unsalaried individuals must claim the deduction under the VI-A schedule by demonstrating the fee paid under section 80C. What education expenses cannot be claimed? It is impossible to claim a tax deduction for fees paid for part-time courses. School fees paid for spouse, self, brother, sister, mother, or any other relative than children are not eligible for a tax deduction.  Also, fees paid to foreign universities situated outside the geographical regions of India are not eligible for this deduction. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

In the previous article, we discussed what are mutual funds. & Taxation in mutual funds. In this article, we will discuss how to track mutual funds. Making mutual fund investments is just the first step. Once the investment has been made, periodically tracking it becomes equally crucial.   Most of us seek advice and do our due diligence before choosing our mutual fund investments. However, once things are done, we typically forget about them until a need arises.  Nearly everything, including your car and health, requires routine maintenance; the same is true for your mutual fund investments.   While you might not need to regularly monitor your portfolio, it is always a good idea to keep yourself informed of its growth and changes.   A fund fact sheet will help you to monitor your mutual fund investment easily. It is a progress report for your investments, similar to a report card.   What is a Fund fact sheet?   A fund fact sheet is a document that lists every scheme that the AMC or mutual fund managers. It is presented in an easy-to-read manner and is issued monthly by the fund house. It contains the following information:   Performance of the schemes: It gives the performance information in terms of beta, Sharpe ratio, standard deviation, and the compound annual growth rate or CAGR of the fund.   The fund factsheet also outlines how your investments have been distributed among different securities.  Size and investment information for each scheme that the mutual fund managers.   Reviewing the fact sheet, which is easily accessible on the mutual fund website, is a great way to keep track of your mutual fund holdings.  What are mutual funds? Read More How to track mutual funds' performance?   The mutual fund websites list their net asset value (NAV). The mutual fund company's chosen index, which is a benchmark for its performance, is available for comparison.   To know how your fund performs, you should also compare it with other funds in the same category. The performance of a mutual fund scheme cannot be assessed in isolation.   Some specialized websites track the performance of mutual funds in addition to the fund fact sheets of the schemes. Over a monthly, quarterly, or half-yearly time frame, you can monitor how your scheme is doing compared to its counterpart in the same category.   It is always good to keep an eye out for the main characteristics and adjustments listed below that could impact the funds' performance.   It is advisable to monitor the portfolio's turnover and changes in management.  While it is typical for management to change over time, a frequent change in the fund manager may be a red flag. A change in fund manager frequently results in a shift in investment style.   To ensure the investment goal is intact in such a situation, it becomes equally necessary to monitor the changes in your portfolio.    Also, the concern should be raised if your mutual fund portfolio consistently experiences high churn or turnover. High returns do not always equate to increased churn.   On the contrary, it can cause more significant damage as rising transaction costs eat into your returns. In other circumstances, more churn may also indicate a short-term concentration.   A short-term emphasis may produce more enormous profits in the near term, but in the long run, it may leave your portfolio weak and exposed to unnecessary risks.   When looking for the warning signs mentioned above, it is advisable to give any mutual fund scheme at least six months. It might be too soon to assess the scheme's performance following any adjustment after a month or a quarter.   Don't let your fund's short-term performance outriggers affect you; give it time to establish itself and achieve the investment goal.   It is good practice to keep track of your mutual fund investments on a timely basis, though not very frequently.  FAQs How to track mutual funds' performance? One way to track your investment is through the mutual fund websites list their net asset value (NAV). The mutual fund company's chosen index, which is a benchmark for its performance, is available for comparison.   To know how your fund performs, you should also compare it with other funds in the same category. The performance of a mutual fund scheme cannot be assessed in isolation. What is a fund fact sheet? A fund fact sheet is a document that lists every scheme that the AMC or mutual fund managers. It is presented in an easy-to-read manner and is issued monthly by the fund house. Who can track your mutual fund investments? It is possible to track your mutual fund investment by yourself. You can also have a financial advisor, or mutual fund portfolio tracker track your investment growth. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

Saving for your child's education is a long-term goal. A perfect balance between risk and return is important. Why mutual funds are ideal to fund your child's education because they satisfy both these requirements. A mutual fund managed by specialists and experts is a fantastic choice. Parents can either invest in the children's plans provided by fund houses or build a mutual fund portfolio, especially to pay for their children's education. Inflation in education-related expenses is bound to increase faster than average inflation.   Parents must look at investing options that will produce respectable returns over time and help them achieve their financial objectives because the expense of education is increasing by more than 20% annually.   In this regard, mutual funds rank among the most practical ways to build wealth for this purpose over the long term.   Choosing an investment product for your child's education can be challenging to fund your schooling. Your parents might have used bank fixed deposits, PPF, and actual gold.   To overcome inflation and generate the anticipated profits, you must make student decisions given the escalating cost of schooling. Long-term wealth creation is, usually, best accomplished with equity investments. They demand, nonetheless, particular knowledge.   Additionally, due to their volatility, you would prefer to invest in shares through mutual funds. Investing in mutual funds is the underlying stocks and securities that are professionally overseen by fund managers who have experience choosing them and are well-diversified.  The advantages listed below make mutual funds an excellent choice for saving your child's educational needs.   Source: pixabay 1. Diversification A mutual fund invests a pool of funds in a portfolio of numerous stocks and securities from different industries. Mutual funds can also invest in several assets, including bonds, cash, and commodities like gold.   By providing greater exposure to other equities and asset classes, this diversification lowers the risk of investing in a single stock or industry and enables better potential rewards.  2. Professionally managed The fact that mutual funds have a professional watch over them is a significant benefit. Professional managers use their extensive knowledge and experience to distribute assets wisely to minimize risk and maximize rewards for your money.   How to track mutual funds investment? Read More 3. Transparent Another critical advantage of mutual funds is the level of information provided to you. As an investor, you can track every investment and where the money goes.   The whole portfolio and investment strategy are disclosed, and a daily online update of the mutual fund's net asset value is given,  4. Allow small investments You can use mutual fund systematic investment plans to make frequent small investments to help you reach your long-term objective of funding your child's education.   With a SIP, you can invest a small sum, such as Rs 500 each month, and let the long-term growth of your money be fueled by the power of compounding and rupee cost averaging.  FAQs Is mutual fund good for child education? Yes, mutual funds are the best way to fund your child's education. They help you grow your child's education fund enough to beat inflation and keep up with the rising cost of education as well. Mutual funds are the best tool out there to help parents grow their child's savings steadily. Which type of mutual fund is best for child education? There are many mutual funds designed for a child's education that you can explore. The best way to start is to consult an expert, calculate the future cost of education for your child, build a financial goal, and then start investing based on the amount you need to save. You can do this for FREE using the EduFund App. Why you should invest in your child's future? By investing in your child's future, you can secure it for life. Education is the key to success, education fund helps beat inflation because it invests in equity-based funds that can potentially beat inflation, and provide good returns that help you keep up with the rising cost of education. Quality education is pricy and to compete with these costs you require more than simple savings, you require diversified investments. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you. TALK TO AN EXPERT