Category Archives: Finance

In the previous article, we learned how to use a SIP calculator to estimate your expected return over a given period with a fixed amount of monthly investment and an expected rate of return. In this article, we will discuss the Step-up SIP calculator.  SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) is a method of investing that requires consistency in investments, even if the amount is small. It focuses on time and needs the compounding cycle not to break.  What is a Growing SIP Calculator (Step-up SIP calculator)?   The SIP investment format has great potential to build wealth for you. However, if you step up your fixed periodical investment amount by some percentage every year, you will generate more returns and have a massive corpus.   Stepping up your SIP is beneficial if you have constant income growth. For example, if you are currently investing Rs 10,000 a month in your SIP, then after one year, you increase your monthly investment amount by 15% and keep on doing this in successive years. This method of increasing your monthly investment is called stepping up your SIP. How does a Growing SIP Calculator (Step-up SIP calculator) help?   A Step-up SIP calculator will give you the future value of your SIP investments which you keep on increasing periodically by a given percentage. This calculator is different from the average SIP calculator in one sense it requires the step-up percentage as an input as well.   To calculate your returns, you have to input the values of your monthly investment amount, the growth percentage of your SIP investment, the expected rate of return, and the tenure of investment. Source: Edufund The step-up calculator is helpful to you as an investor in the following ways Get results about complex investment scenarios with a single click Obtain the estimated potential returns   Compare various SIP options by varying the inputs in the formula   Assists you in making well-informed and calculative decisions regarding your investments Free-of-cost calculation   Easy to use   Benefits of SIP 1. Financial discipline  When you opt for a SIP, you indirectly get into the habit of keeping aside an amount of money from your income for investment. The fact that there will be a monthly deduction towards a scheme will ensure you keep track of your income and expenses on a periodical basis to ensure the investment is not hindered. You also will be planning your expenses after you have invested an amount at the beginning of the month.    2. Fund managers Mutual fund investments are supervised by professional fund managers who have proven experience in managing portfolios. They observe market trends and make wise decisions in order to grow your money and minimize major losses. This will be a great advantage for someone who is not well-versed in investment and struggles with financial jargon. When you choose SIPs, you invest money periodically and have a professional fund manager overseeing your investments.    3. The fruits of compounding  The returns on your investment benefit from compounding. Compounding means you don’t just get the return on what you spend out of your pocket but also what you earn from it. This basically leads to your corpus getting richer with time. You can enjoy the power of compounding when you choose a SIP and stay dedicated to the investment for a long time.   4. Rupee cost averaging This is one of the major benefits of compounding. When you invest an amount through SIP, you do not need to worry about timing the market. You buy a high number of units when the NAV is low due to the markets, and on the other hand, you buy a lesser number of units when the NAV is high. This factor of SIP ensures the overall cost of purchasing mutual fund units averages out over the tenure of investment. Important points to note about the Growing SIP calculator (Step-up SIP calculator) Systematic Investment Plans come with semi-annual and annual stepping-up options. As an investor, you cannot increase the size of an existing SIP; the option becomes active only if you select the option concerned while setting up the SIP.   If the step-up option is not selected, you will need to start a new SIP by selecting the step-up option.  A valid reason to step up your SIP is the logic of raising your savings with your rising income. You can directly transfer your increased savings into your existing SIP if you have a Step Up SIP instead of creating a new one.  You can automate your SIP settings to raise the investment amount to the necessary level without worrying. For example, if you are sure of getting an income raise of 10%, you can enter the step-up percentage at 7% - 8%. The longer you invest, the longer you allow the magic of compounding to work. FAQs How is Step Up SIP calculated?   The Step-up SIP calculator helps you calculate your returns. For example, if you invest Rs.5000 through SIP monthly and decide to step up your SIP amount by 10% every year, your investment amount will increase to Rs.5500 for the next investment tenure. Why is Step Up SIP better? Step Up SIP is one of the best options for people who lack financial discipline. They, most often than not, fail to increase their SIP amount when their income increases. A step-up SIP will automatically raise their investment amount by a predetermined percentage every year. Which SIP is best for 1000 per month? Franklin India Feeder Franklin U S Opportunities Fund for SIP Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity Fund for SIP. Canara Robeco Emerging Equities Fund for SIP. Nippon India Value Fund for SIP. Nippon India Arbitrage Fund for SIP. Which SIP is best for 10 years? Franklin India Technology Fund ICICI Prudential Technology Fund PGIM India Global Agribusiness Offshore Fund Aditya Birla Sun Life Digital India Fund SBI Technology Opportunities Fund

When they hear the phrase "bear market," many investors become frightened. However, compared to the length of bull markets, when the market is gaining in value, these catastrophic market downturns are unavoidable and typically only endure a short period. In this blog, we discuss when it's a smart idea to invest during a bad market. What is a bear market? A bear market is described as a period of time during which the price of securities drops by at least 20%. When a fall lasts for more than two months, a bear market is considered to have begun. Negative returns are the hallmark of a bear market. A pessimistic market attitude causes additional stock sell-offs, which further drags down the market. Several reasons, including panic selling by investors brought on by an economic crisis, such as an unanticipated catastrophic occurrence, a financial crisis in one sector, market correction, and a drop in corporate earnings, can contribute to the decline in stock prices. It takes bravery to weather the storm, and both novice and seasoned investors may find the bear market challenges. The investors' time horizon, investment goals, and risk tolerance will determine the optimal course of action during a down market. Although most people fear bear markets, they might really be the perfect time to expand your portfolio and lay the foundation for long-term wealth creation. What to do in a bear market? Your finances may suffer greatly in severe downturn markets. Salary cutbacks, payroll delays, and other financial hardships can result from economic downturns. It is advisable to prepare oneself for a faltering economy before becoming involved in bear market investment. A financial strategy must be in place in order to make wise judgments. During market turbulence, you are more prone to make hasty judgments if you don't have a strategy. 1. Short selling during a bear market Using short selling to their advantage, investors may make money during a bad market. This tactic necessitates the selling of borrowed shares, which are subsequently repurchased at a discount. If things don't go as planned, this method is very dangerous and might result in significant losses. Before placing a short sell order, short sellers must borrow shares from a broker.  The difference between the price at which the aforementioned shares were sold and subsequently bought back is the profit and loss realized by a short seller and is referred to as "covered. 2. Inverse ETFs and puts during bear markets Investors and traders can sell a certain stock at a specific price on or before a given date without being constrained by this obligation by using a put option. Put options are used as a hedge against decreasing stock prices and as a way to speculate on declining stock prices, protecting long-only portfolios.  When there aren't any bear markets, buying puts is typically a better strategy than the aforementioned short selling. Furthermore, inverse ETFs can be used to speculate or protect portfolios. By altering values in the opposite direction of the index they track, inverse ETFs work. 3. Buy stocks  All firms' stock prices decrease during a bear run. It is regarded as the ideal opportunity to invest and purchase stocks. However, you should invest in stocks of reputable businesses that will prosper in the future. Rebalance your portfolio and start concentrating on value equities rather than growth ones. 4. Buy dividend stocks  The best time to invest in firms with a history of large dividend payments is during down markets. A dependable source of recurring income is dividends. Additionally, it will let you reinvest the dividend income you get. Do not, however, neglect strong growth businesses by focusing primarily on dividend stocks. The optimum moment to purchase high-growth shares that you have been eyeing is when prices fall. 5. Timing the market  During a bear market, the majority of investors sell their holdings and leave the market. Market volatility is a reality, and although the decline causes investors to fear, trying to time the market is a futile endeavor. Riding through the storm is the best course of action during a down market. Is a bear market a good time to invest? Clearly, during periods of a bear market, investors do not have the best of times. It might not seem like the best moment to start investing in the market if you have never done so before. But there are benefits to making investments during a bad market. You are less likely to be taken in by trends since nearly none of them are successful, which is why equities are declining in value and day traders are abandoning up. Instead, you may concentrate on the crucial objective of long-term wealth growth. Both in bear and bull markets, there are a variety of strategies to make money. The secret to success is choosing the best investing instruments for each market and utilizing them effectively. A few bear market investments that let investors profit from market downturns include short selling, put options, and short or inverse ETFs. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The demand for education loans has increased in India due to rising costs, increased demand for foreign education, and the need for upskilling courses or executive programs to boost career growth. While student loans may seem scary, there are many benefits of education loans that you can avail of while financing your child's higher education!    Tax break   Tax exemptions are the most incredible benefits of education loans. Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act of India, the interest paid on education loans can be claimed as a deductible by the beneficiary. Tax benefits do not cover the principal amount of a loan but can be claimed when paying the interest amount. Parents can claim this deduction for the next 8 years from the start of payments after the moratorium period is lifted.    Moratorium period Education loan payments do not start the right way. Banks that offer education loans give you a period wherein you are not required to pay your EMI, which is called a moratorium period. T his period is generally for six months to 1 year; in exceptional circumstances, it can be more. This period is provided to help students find employment to start paying their loans without financial stress.     Attractive Interest rates   Educational loans have relatively low-interest rates than personal loans or house loans. Banks constantly compete to provide the best possible interest rates to students who need education loans. This gives students the advantage of shopping around for the best and most interest rates to reduce the final amount and quickly pay off their debt.    Zero collateral    Education loans do not require collateral in the form of an FD, land, bond, or other assets! Your child can get a collateral-free education loan to study abroad or in India. Banks assess requirements like the third-party guarantor, the parent's credit history, and your child's educational background to decide if your application is strong enough for approval. Banks also place heavy emphasis on the course and university your child is going to study.    Wide coverage   Contrary to popular belief, education loans provide blanket coverage. Education loans cover many payments like tuition fees, living expenses, and flights and help parents settle their child comfortably in a foreign land.    Additional read: Does education loans cover living expenses Cashback on Refundable Deposits   Education loans cover refundable deposits your child may have to pay during their university application process. This is not a feature offered by every education loan provider. It also depends on the loan amount and whether your loan is collateral free or dependent. Do check with your bank if you have the facility to get your money back on refundable deposits.   Secure your retirement savings   Another benefit of an education loan is that you do not have to use your savings for your child's education. If you do not have enough savings or investing stored, especially for schooling, then opt for an education loan that covers your tuition fees. The education loan amount you should be going for should be 25% of your child's total expenses. For example, if the cost is Rs. 50 lakhs, then your loan amount should be Rs. 12 to 13 lakhs.   An education loan can help you ensure quality education for your child and keep your retirement savings intact for the rainy day.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gTQkdePOWM Helps build Credit   One of the tremendous benefits of education loans is that it helps with credit building. Your child may want to buy a house in the future in a foreign country, and having a good credit history can accelerate that process. If you want your child to settle in a foreign country, then ensuring they have a good credit history is essential. Education loans can help them build a credit history with regular payments. This shows the financial institutions that you are a safe bet and trusted client for future loan applications.     A significant benefit of education loan is that it helps parents support their child's dream and build their future. Education loans are convenient if your child plans to go abroad or opt for an expensive degree in India. They provide financial support to those in need of immediate funds. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

With over 1,30,000 funds globally, it becomes challenging and confusing for an investor to choose funds best suited for their goals, objectives, risk appetite, and investment horizon. As investors, when we need guidance and assistance, we often get confused between Investment Managers, Investment Advisors, Financial Planners, Wealth Managers, and Asset Managers!   In this article, let's see the difference between Investment Managers vs Investment Advisors and which professional help you should take based on your requirement. Who is an Investment Advisor?  An Investment Advisor performs detailed research, analyzing the market movements and cycles. During this research and analysis, they inform clients of profitable or growth-oriented assets. Investment advisors work with you to understand your financial worth, goals and objectives, preferred investments, risk tolerance, phase of life, etc.   Advisors first understand their client's financial requirements, risk capacity, and investment goals and then create a detailed investment plan. Depending on the agreement type with the client, the Investment Advisor will periodically review the client's portfolio and rebalance the asset allocation if required to ensure the investments are aligned with the client’s financial goals.  Fee: Investment Advisors charge a flat fee, whether time-based or asset-based, for their services.   Additional read: Short-term vs long-term savings for your child’s education Who is an Investment Manager?  An Investment Manager’s primary role is to manage investments on their client’s behalf. Their clients could be an individual, an organization, or even the government. An Investment Manager handles all activities required to manage an investment portfolio. The activities mainly relate to performance management and buying and selling investment instruments. Their objective is to ensure safety but, at the same time, provide optimized returns on investments. Investment Managers rely on day-to-day financial analysis to ensure the investment products recommended to their clients provide optimized risk-adjusted returns.   Fee: Investment Managers work only on a fee cost model, usually in terms of commission.  Difference between an Investment Manager vs Investment Advisor Parameters Investment Managers Investment Advisors Role They offer data and analysis on fund performance and risk capacity to help pick the correct fund. They offer complete advice regarding your financial standing and well-being, including your budget, retirement, taxes, investment planning, etc. Scope Offer to advise only related to your portfolio creation and management. Offer advice by assessing your financial position and creating a plan to help you reach your financial goals. Services offered Investment Managers cannot be investment Advisors.  Investment Advisors can offer portfolio management services. Fee They work on a fee cost that is usually a commission-based model. Their fee is fixed based on a period or the volume of assets they handle. Bias There are chances of little advice as they might sell certain funds that offer them higher commissions. Meager chances of biased advice as they receive a fixed fee from you. The client’s growth is beneficial to the Advisor's goodwill. Eligibility To be an investment manager, one should have a bachelor’s degree in finance, business or accounting and an MBA if required by certain institutions. To be an investment advisor in India, one should have passed both levels of the NISM Series X – Investment Adviser certifications.   Conclusion  In volatile market conditions, consulting an experienced Investment Advisor proves beneficial as they provide a detailed goal-based planning approach with proper diversification to reduce the overall portfolio volatility. A goal-based planning approach considers all your investment objectives and commitment and ensures that you are financially prepared to achieve those goals. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Studying abroad is not just about paying tuition fees, it also means moving to a new country and paying for accommodation, and all daily needs. Moving and living in a new city to study can be costly. Consider, that the average cost of living in Victoria, Canada for a single person is CAD 3, 494 (Rs. 2,86,111.61). A scholarship can reduce this cost partially or fully. Apply for Scholarship Tips on how to get a scholarship to study abroad 1. Make Google your best friend  The key step to winning a scholarship to study abroad is to do your research. Find out all the scholarships you are eligible to apply to and if those scholarships cover the program you are aiming for. The best place to start is the university website. Many universities offer scholarships to international students for specific courses that can reduce a significant portion of your yearly tuition expense.   Try to check government websites to see if they have any scholarships. A Pro tip would be to read the news daily and find out if there are any new scholarships announced by government institutions or corporate powerhouses to help students finance their dream education.   2. Ask the foreign university administration  To get a scholarship to study abroad, you need to develop a proactive approach and reach out to stakeholders. Don’t hesitate to ask the administration if they have any scholarships, grants, or bursaries for Indian nationals. If the university does not offer any exclusive scholarships, then ask them for help to apply to organizations that can sponsor your education. Sometimes asking for help is the best way to easily get a scholarship to study abroad!   3. Approach your seniors for information  Your seniors are the best source of information for scholarships. Since they have been in your shoes and done their due research, you can ask them for the different sources and organizations that you can apply to, to get a scholarship to study abroad.   4. Work on your SOP to stand out  The only way to get a scholarship to study abroad is to make your application unforgettable. This means working consistently on your scores, and extracurriculars and creating an amazing statement of purpose. Avoid generic statements and quotes. Make sure your statement of purpose highlights all your achievements and your future vision. Try to align your goals with the course you have opted for and the scholarship’s aim. By showing that your aims are aligned with the scholarship’s aim and your course, you can prove to the deciding committee that you are a desirable candidate.   What makes you an ideal candidate for a Scholarship? Read More 5. Get stellar LORs   Many scholarships require students to submit letters of recommendation. The recommendations are given by your professors, teachers, counselors, or your boss as a testimony. The recommendation letter should always come from credible sources so that the scholarship committee knows that you are a valuable candidate. Avoid asking your parents or relatives to write a recommendation letter for you. A common mistake most students make is to write the letter on their own or on behalf of their teacher.   6. Prove your worth  Winning a scholarship is not easy, especially when you are competing with thousands of candidates for the same position. The only way to get a scholarship to study abroad would be to prove your worth and show to the committee that you are a valuable candidate. This is possible through your SOP, academic history, extracurriculars, and finally, LORs. Acing these documents can help you get an interview where you can show your worth and win a scholarship to your dream university!   7. Respect the deadlines and proofread everything  Scholarships have strict deadlines that all students must adhere to. Start the process of finding the scholarships and submitting the documents months in advance so that you have enough time to ace your application. Another tip is to proofread all the information you have provided. Make sure you do not provide false information or lie on your application. FAQ How do I study abroad for free?  It is possible to study abroad for free with a scholarship. Many foreign and local universities offer scholarships to academically gifted or highly valued students to help them finance a portion of their tuition. How do you get a 100% scholarship?  Winning a 100% scholarship is extremely tough. You must have a powerful profile with a stellar academic record, extracurriculars, social work, and well-written SOP and LORs. 100% scholarships are hard to win and are given to outstanding students.  Can an average student get a scholarship to study abroad?  Yes, there are different types of scholarships like need-based, merit-based, and identity-based scholarships that students can apply for and win even if their academic records are average. Finding the right scholarship and working hard on your application can help you win a scholarship despite average academic scores.   These are some tips on how to get a scholarship to study abroad that you can use! There are thousands of scholarships available to international students, If you feel overwhelmed or stressed about finding the right scholarship then reach out to an expert and get the help you need to make your college life memorable.

The United Kingdom has a long tradition of intellectual success. It is one of the well-liked destinations for overseas students pursuing higher education. Regarding MS, UK institutions are at the frontline of offering a diverse selection of courses according to the student's interests.  MS in the United Kingdom provides full-time 1 or 2-year long courses. Specialists from various roles, industries, and courses are available at UK institutions, allowing overseas students to follow their selected degree programs. Popular MS specializations in the UK The following is a listing of the best MS Specialisations in the UK for Indian students. MS in Biology (Sciences)  MS in IT & Networking  MS in Engg (others)  MS in Geology  MS in Computer Science & Engineering  MS in Health Science  MS in Electronics & Electrical Engineering  MS in Mathematics Ways to save for MS in the UK A Master's degree might boost your child’s income potential. It might also be an opportunity to explore something your child is interested in. Saving in advance is the most effective way to reduce the expenditure burden your child will have to handle with student loans. Here's how to get started. 1. Set a goal and a budget for savings Setting a clear objective for the amount to finance your child’s Master’s can assist you in planning for the future. Calculating how much you'll need to save boils down to weighing costs. First, estimate how much money you'll require to pay for their tuition and living expenses. Then consider obtaining student loans, but proceed with caution. Calculate the monthly payment cost of the loan after your child graduates. 2. Refinance private student loans To save money, refinance outstanding private student loans. If your child is currently paying their student loans with a bachelor’s degree, the interest rates may have decreased since then. Interest rates on student loans are predicted to surge throughout 2022. In June, the federal funds rate was raised by 75 basis points, and fed officials anticipate future hikes. This might result in increased interest rates on both private & federal student loans. If you hold private student loans, refinancing replaces your loan with a new loan with a reduced interest rate. Refinancing existing student loans may allow you to free up a few additional rupees in your monthly budget for savings. 3. Choose the best option to start saving There are several options to save for future college fees, ranging from a traditional high-yield savings account to a college investing account. However, the best way to save will be determined by the timing of your strategy.  Select investment programs that offer investment possibilities customized to various periods and risk sensitivities. If you gradually adapt to being more conservative, you may invest more aggressively. Some of the options to start savings include - Mutual fund investing US ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) Purchasing insurance policies Purchasing real estate Making an investment in PPF With these ways to save for your child's education, you may stop worrying about the cash needed to send your child to his or her ideal college. 4. Prepare early savings Investment needs time to mature. Education costs are often long-term goals that require more than five years to attain. Consider how much time you will need to create your children's education fund for MS in the UK.  The more time you have, the lighter your load will be. The sooner you begin investing & saving, the better. Top 10 MS colleges in the United Kingdom There are around 115+ MS Colleges in the UK. MS costs about INR 27.40 lakhs in the UK (approx.). The top specializations are IT and networking, Engg (others), Biology (Sciences), Geology, Health Science, Computer Science and engineering, Electronics and electrical Engineering, and Mathematics.  A bachelor's degree + Statement of Purpose (SOP) + IELTS/TOEFL/PTE score+ Letter of Recommendation (LOR) + GMAT/GRE scores + resume + job experience is required for admission. Consider looking at the best colleges in the UK for overseas students seeking an MS. Top MS Courses in the United Kingdom MS tuition prices in the United Kingdom Conclusion According to Census Bureau data, earning a master's degree may earn you up to $400,000 more than a bachelor's degree throughout your life. However, because this is throughout a lifetime, you may not see any significant financial rewards at first. As a result, it is critical to begin planning and conserving as soon as possible.  Senior financial counselors and planners urge parents to examine the higher education level they expect their children to achieve before developing a plan. More importantly, gathers information about current tuition costs and detects yearly increases. Make wise financial decisions, and you'll experience a lot less worry in the future. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Parenthood is a challenging experience. With growing education inflation, you must maintain adequate cash reserves to avoid burning a hole in your wallet. Selecting the best one-time investment plan for your child's future can assist in guaranteeing that they have enough money for each stage of their life.  Getting the finest kid education plan is recommended as just a one-time investment that shields children after your death while also creating enough funds to pay for their educational ambitions. The best one-time investment plan considerations Today's Indian market is swamped with new kid education plans that serve as one-time investment solutions with various features and rewards. Creating the optimal selection is to making an informed decision promptly. Below are some significant factors to consider while selecting the best one-time investment plan for the child. The benefit amount from the child investment plans should be suitable for individuals with the inconsistent financial flow. The payouts from these investment plans should be able to support their requirement. Compared to other normal policy rates, the kid plan premium is lower. This is because the insurance is purchased in cash rather than in installments. There are, however, several child education options, including making monthly premium payments. Another feature is the tax benefit, which allows you to take benefits of Section 80C in the first year for the sole premium plan vs standard plans Best investments for children 1. Invest in Equity Mutual Funds  Deposits in equity mutual funds rank high on the one-time investment plan for kids. The extended period of 10-15 years and the investing style offered are the two key reasons for this. Equity funds have historically generated around 12% to 15% annual returns. Mutual funds are generally regarded as a secure investment that allows investors to spread with little risk. However, there are times when a mutual fund is not a suitable alternative for a new entrant, particularly regarding expenses. A mutual fund plan is a financial instrument created by pooling money from several investors. Mutual fund firms engage in securities such as corporate shares, bonds, stocks, loans, and other assets through AMCs. Mutual fund businesses invest their funds in a variety of securities. This enables its investors to increase their wealth through investing. 2. Recurring deposit investments If you are searching for a low-risk investment strategy for your children's future, consider recurring deposits, as interest rates are at an all-time high. You may secure the RDs and make plans for your child's future. In India, both banks and post offices provide recurring deposits. For example, a monthly investment of Rs 1000 might yield Rs 2 lakhs over ten years. 3. PPF Investments If you are searching for a long-term investment plan, consider PPF, which allows you to lock in your assets for 15 years. A baseline of 1 lakh can be deposited every year, with an annual return rate of 8.75%. Post offices and banks may both open PPF accounts. 4. Gold Investments Gold is an excellent hedge against stocks, particularly during uncertain market conditions. Parents invest in gold through ETFs, E-Gold, and gold mutual funds. Experts advise against investing in physical gold to limit the danger connected with physical gold storage. 5. Risks & Returns from Mutual Funds The mutual fund returns may estimate the annual and absolute returns available from 1 week to a maximum of 5 years. Most mutual fund return computations forecast the scheme's performance rank within fund classes.  Mutual funds concentrate on securities, whether stock or debt, whose values change in response to market fluctuations. This makes them riskier because the fund's NAV is determined by the individual securities values in its portfolio. Great-risk mutual funds are funds with big potential and the possibility to deliver high returns. These funds, however, are very unpredictable and carry significant risks. The degree and kind of risk are determined by the investments in a mutual fund. Choosing an adequate kid plan as a one-time investment will ensure your child's financial security even after death. Timely investments must take precedence whenever it relates to their academic and financial security. Mutual funds are among the most effective investment strategies since they provide better returns and diversity. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan  TALK TO AN EXPERT

“We don’t have to be smarter than the rest. We have to be more disciplined than the rest”. Warren Buffett. In a volatile market, many investors see their portfolios as sometimes positive and sometimes negative. So, there are some investors who asked if should we book short-term profits on our investments or if should we hold them. Read on to know what you should ideally do. Why did you start SIP? First, answer yourself why you have started a SIP. With what objective you have started your investments? Generally, people save and invest their money with long-term objectives like saving for a child’s higher education, retirement, buying a house, buying a car, etc. Mostly we make investments to achieve our financial goals. The volatility in the market will always remain there, but we need to stick with our goals and investments. When should you book profits? Investments in mutual funds should be based on financial goals. If you have achieved your financial goal, then you can book profits or redeem your units to utilize the amount for that specific goal, or you can book profits when you are near your goals, and you have achieved your financial target, or if your fund is underperforming. In such scenarios, you can book profits. Majorly investments in mutual funds are for long-term financial goals. You should avoid booking short-term profits on your SIP. Additional read: What are alternate investment funds? What if the market crashes or falls? In case, if the market crashes or falls, then should either consider it as an opportunity to buy at a lower level or remain invested with your SIP. Don’t get fear out with the fall in the market. In the short-term, the funds or market may not perform, but in the long-term market has generated positive returns. Nifty 50 Performance in 6 months and 5 years’ time frame Power of Compounding Compounding is basically earning profits on capital invested and profits as well. It’s like getting interested in interest and principal amount. The longer you remain invested the better compounding will work. Let’s understand this with an example, suppose there are two-person A & B and both are planning for their child’s higher education, but A has 10 years to save and B has 20 years to save and both have invested in equity mutual funds. Let’s see the difference in their savings amount. In the above table, we can see that person A’s invested money has just got doubled but person B’s money has grown to 5x because he has more time to save for his goal. The more you remain invested, the more benefit you will get out of compounding. Conclusion The wealth is created over a long-term period, not in the short-term. Consider investing with a financial objective and stick with your investments, don’t let the market volatility impact your decision. Only redeem or switch your investment if your funds are not performing, else remain invested and let it grow. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

In today's age, we as Indian consumers, use Google, Microsoft, Starbucks, Netflix, and Spotify in our day-to-day lives. Some of the world's largest companies are based out of the US. These are high-growth companies listed on the US stock exchange. Why should you invest in US stocks?  Here is why you should invest in US stocks:   Exposure to global companies: By investing in US stocks, you get exposure from Tech Giants like Google and Apple to the most prominent brands like Nike, Starbucks, etc. These companies have a global presence and are known worldwide. Investing in such companies helps you expand your portfolio.  Fractional shares: Currently, the cost of one Netflix share is $224, roughly ₹18,216.95. This makes investing in US stocks very expensive if one buys whole shares. But fear not! US stock offers the concept of investing in fractional shares. In case you have ₹10,000, you can invest the whole amount across different shares fractionally instead of buying whole shares.  Portfolio diversification: Many global factors, like geo-political tensions, budgets, oil price changes, etc., have a significant impact on any country's economy and market. By having optimized diversification, your portfolio can absorb market volatility efficiently.  Currency hedging: The US Dollar has been on the rise for the past five years. By investing solely in the Indian market, you are missing out on the opportunity of a USD rise. While investing in US stocks, you are purchasing US Dollars. When these investments are held for long investment horizons, your investment value increases in terms of currency with an increase in the USD rates.  Steps to create your US Account on the EduFund App  Open the EduFund App or the EduFund website.  Click on the top left corner where your initial is mentioned.   Then select the US Account set up option. You'll be able to view the charges and pricing page, where we do not charge you anything for the US ETF account creation. Kindly go through the other charges carefully.   Click on Continue. It will ask you to fill in your personal details, attach your ID (PAN) and address proof (Aadhar), Bank details, etc.  Agree to the terms and conditions and disclaimers after reading it, and attest that the information provided by you is correct.  Then click on Create Investment Account.  Once the verification process is completed, your US account will be created Steps to add funds to your US ETF account  All residents can transmit up to $250,000 per financial year (April – March) for any permissible current or capital account transaction, or a combination of both, under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS).  ICICI, HDFC, IDFC, and Kotak bank account customers can complete the LRS process online by logging in and following the fund transfer instructions.  You can choose one of two alternatives when transferring funds using LRS on our platform.  Online transfer – via your net banking  Offline transfer – Visit the bank and submit the A2 form How to add funds?  Log in to the app and click on Add Money for detailed instructions to add funds from your domestic bank account to your US ETF account.  Online mode: -  Proceed to your bank's Net banking and log in with your credentials.  Go to Fund Transfer Tab and select Add a Beneficiary. Select the Remit Now option.   Add the beneficiary details (you will find this on the app itself).  Click on Continue and select Confirm to add the Beneficiary.  Complete the OTP Verification to complete the addition of the Beneficiary.  Depending on the bank, the Beneficiary takes around 30-45 mins to be added.  Once the Beneficiary is added, select the Fund Transfer tab and click on Go in Remit Now.  Then choose your account and select the Beneficiary name entered above.  Scroll down and enter the Transfer Amount in USD and other details.  Then enter the account ID (starts with 6BE) (find it in EduFund’s profile section under US Account Set up) in the Sender to Receiver’s Info.   After reading it through, check the Terms and Conditions box to agree.  Complete the OTP Verification to initiate the transfer.  The fund transfer takes around 3-4 business days to reflect under the available cash balance on the app.  7 steps to invest in US stocks   Open the EduFund app.  Select the Invest option from the icons in the horizontal bar present at the bottom.  Select US Market on the top. (On this screen, you'll see the top US Stocks and the US ETF Baskets.)  Select the stock you want to invest in and tap on buy. If the stock you want to invest in is not on the screen, click View All and use the Search bar to search for your desired stock.  You’ll be able to see the Price and Available cash balance in your US Account.  Now under this, you’ll be able to see Market Order and Limit Order.  In limit order – it'll ask you Share to buy, Limit price, Duration and Estimated amount.  The market order will ask you Share to buy and Dollar to buy (amount of dollars you want to invest).  You can click on Place order after entering the above details.  Always choose an investment instrument suitable for your portfolio and aligned with your investment goal and risk appetite. Before taking exposure to US stocks, fundamentally analyze the companies so that investments are safe. Nevertheless, consult an expert to know the right investment option for you.  You can reach out to us on EduFund Customer Support for further queries, doubts, or guidance.  TALK TO AN EXPERT

Your 20s are the time to make mistakes, take risks and throw caution to the wind. While the 20s is a time to learn from your mistakes and enter adulthood, it is also time to avoid making substantial money mistakes that may follow you later in life. Accumulating debt, living carelessly without saving or investing, and making impulse financial decisions are just some money mistakes to avoid in your 20s, no matter how tempting they seem.    Not saving or investing money  Contrary to popular belief, enjoying your 20s does not mean you have to live on the edge and party daily. Most people in their 20s make the mistake of living paycheck to paycheck. They avoid saving and investing their money for the future. Rather than saving and investing for short-term goals like buying a laptop or phone, the go-to option is to buy on EMI and pay for it in installments. Neither do they create contingency plans in case of job loss or medical emergency that can lead to significant financial distress?   Not saving and investing is a huge money mistake to avoid in your 20s. The 20s is the best time to invest money and reap the benefits of compounding. Suppose you earn Rs. 40,000 monthly salaries and decide to invest Rs. 10,000 monthly towards mutual funds (assuming a 10% interest rate for the next 20 years). You can amass nearly Rs. 77 to 76 lakhs by doing so consistently. If you keep increasing this amount as your salary increases and decide to diversify your investment, your corpus could be large enough to support your long-term plans.    Borrowing money from parents, friends, and family Another money mistake to avoid in your 20s is to borrow money from your parents, friends, or family. Try to budget your expenses and spending so that you don't have to borrow money from your family members. The 20s is the time to take charge of your life financially; relying on your friends or relatives can create rifts and make you more dependent.    The best way to avoid this mistake is to keep your expenses less than your income and actively reduce any debt!    Additional read: Money mistakes to avoid in your 30s Taking on too many EMIs and Loans   In your 20s, getting a new phone or taking a spontaneous trip abroad is tempting to shake off the week's stress. These luxuries are guilty pleasures you should enjoy when you have the money to spare; taking a loan to finance your foreign trip or buying a new phone on EMI can be problematic and a huge money mistake.    Budget your expenses, take trips without your budget, and destress through activities that do not cause you financial stress later in life. Try to be practical and save for your luxuries rather than take loans to satisfy them.    Living to the fullest    The 20s is the time to live life to the fullest! It is true, but the 20s are not the end of your life; you don't have to disturb your future financial goals or take on debt to keep up with an unrealistic lifestyle. Live your life, think about the future pragmatically, and invest cash towards your retirement. Try to be careful and responsible with your money early on so you don't have to regret it later!    Spending more than your income    Spending more than your income is a money mistake to avoid in your 20s! Most young adults make the mistake of not budgeting and overspending. This can easily be avoided by creating a budget and following it properly. Try to be conscious of where your money is going, and avoid eating out too much or ordering in. If possible, place a daily limit on your credit card to avoid the urge to overspend.    Young adults often end up overspending out of peer pressure and to fit in. Whether it's buying trendy clothes you don't need or partying every day, it's essential to embrace your limits and not follow others blindly!   Not investing in yourself  Not investing in yourself is crucial to avoiding money mistakes in your 20s. While learning to budget, save and invest money, you might forget to invest in yourself. Like the late Rajesh Jhunjhunwala said in a conference that his worst investment had been his health, you too need to find time to invest in yourself. Whether it's exercising, learning new skills, or indulging in a recreational activity. Take some time out for yourself and prioritize your physical and mental well-being to stay happy and healthy!    Live in the present but invest for the future. Make sure you make the most of your 20s and avoid money mistakes that can cost you or your family a bright future. The 20s is the time to cultivate futuristic habits like financial planning and budgeting that can change your life for the better!  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

A bull market can be caused by a variety of variables, but economic expansion is the most frequent. Businesses often make more money when the economy is strong, and stock market investors have more faith in the market. Let’s explore if a bull market is a good time to invest or not! What is a bull market? When prices are rising or are expected to rise, a market is considered to be a bull market. Although everything that is traded, including bonds, real estate, currencies, and commodities, can be described as being in a "bull market," the stock market is the one to which the term is most usually applied. Bull markets are often defined as extended periods during which a sizable portion of asset values are rising. This is because the prices of securities rise and fall almost continually during trading. Bull markets sometimes linger for several months, if not years. Is a bull market a good time to invest? In a bull market, when there is more possibility for larger returns, it is ideal to have a bigger equity allocation. Buy equities early and sell them before they reach their peak to benefit from a bull market's growing values. Growth companies often do well in bull markets, whilst value stocks are frequently a superior investment in down markets.  Your time horizon will largely determine how you invest in equities throughout bull and downturn markets. It doesn't matter if the market is now bullish or negative if you won't need the money for decades. If you are a buy-and-hold investor, you shouldn't typically change your investing strategy in reaction to the state of the market. The stock market may be negative even when other asset classes are going through bull cycles, and vice versa. If the stock market is increasing and you are concerned about price inflation, you could make a prudent choice to allocate a portion of your portfolio to gold or real estate. If the stock market is down, you can consider increasing the proportion of bonds in your portfolio or even converting some of it into cash. To benefit from bull markets that occur throughout the world, you should also consider regionally diversifying your holdings. How to invest in a bull market Following is the detailed guide to investing in a bull market. You can also download the EduFund app and create an account to start investing in a bull market. With zero charges and no hassle account opening process is from the comfort of your home. Evaluate personal goals – Making educated selections begins with evaluating your objectives. Your age and other aspects that affect your investments will be considered in a personal examination. For instance, a 30-year-old's risk-taking will differ from that of a 60-year-old. Therefore, their selection of equity will also differ. Long positions – When you take long positions with your stock, you buy it at a lower price and sell it at a higher one. The stock is bought with the expectation that its value will rise. Buy companies with strong fundamentals – Invest in businesses that have a history of expansion. Check the company's sales, profitability, and demand for the product it produces. Buy fallen stocks – The bear market before the bull run allows investors to purchase equities at a discount to their book value. In this stage, shares of firms with strong growth are available for less money. Choose various industries – When the economy is strong and people start spending again, certain industries will recover. Economic expansion is projected to benefit cyclical companies including those in the housing, automotive, technology, and industrial equipment industries. Adopt a phased approach to selling too – In the same way that investing must be done in stages, selling out of stock must also be done in stages. Indeed, even more so! The better it is when you sell a stock, the higher the price you receive. If you decide to sell a stock in stages during a bull market, you'll probably get a lot higher price. That indicates that while you might not always exit at the peak, each subsequent departure will occur at a higher price. Additionally, you don't need to stress perfectly timing your escapes! What makes stock prices increase during a bull market? Bull markets frequently coexist with a powerful, healthy, and expanding economy. Both expected future profits and a company's ability to generate cash flow have an impact on stock prices. Rising stock prices show the expectation that earnings will expand going forward, which is supported by a growing GDP, high employment, and a strong production sector. Corporation profitability benefits from both low interest rates and corporate tax rates. There are several tools to generate money in both bull and downturn markets. Choosing the finest investment for each market and utilizing them wisely are the keys to success. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

You are probably a little concerned about the recent increase in tuition costs if your child plans to attend college in a city like London. With the rupee falling against foreign curries like dollars and euros, your child’s living expenses in London will be directly impacted. Going to university is an essential step on the career ladder and you can’t delay it no matter how high the cost may be. But you can budget and invest so that your child has enough funds to sail through economic upheavals. Living expenses in London If your child wants to maintain the life they had with you in your native country, it will most likely be quite expensive, so they may have to make sacrifices! Student Accommodation When your child enters the UK, there are various places for him or her to live, and the prices vary. For example, the Halls of Residence option typically costs around ₹4,000 to Rs 7,000 per week. They might also look for rooms in houses or apartments. Rents might start at ₹3,000 per week and go up depending on the quality of the accommodation. Here is an estimate of how much you or your child would pay for basic things while in the UK: Food - ₹2,000 -3,000 weekly on food supplies. Telephone (landline) - roughly ₹1,700 - 3,000 Monthly Telephone (mobile) - starting at ₹400 weekly. DSL / Internet - about ₹400 weekly for standard DSL. Bills - starting from ₹840 per week for bills including heating, water, and electricity. Travel - starting from ₹800 per week. Study Materials - about ₹600 per week. Fun - A movie ticket costs about ₹700, a beer pint around ₹260, and a DVD rental of roughly ₹260. Of course, this is not a complete list, but it will help you figure out how much everything will cost in the UK. Whether it's studying today or in 10 years, you can use the College Cost Calculator to find out the cost of studying in London. This calculator not only takes into account the future tuition fees but also calculates the cost of living expenses to provide an accurate estimate to parents sending their children to a foreign country. These are inflation-adjusted so that you do not end up saving and investing less for tomorrow! Additional read: How to Fund your Child’s Masters in Ireland? How to cover these costs? Saving money in advance is essential for any prospective student and their parents. Even if your child is starting university within a few months, it is not too late to start saving, especially since the first few months might be the most expensive. Here are some options for student financing in the UK because sending your child to school abroad will undoubtedly strain your finances: 1. Students Loans Education loans and maintenance loans are two forms of student loans available in the UK. All of these loans are expected to be returned to the university to which your child is applying once they have completed their program. Some universities may provide a partial loan to pay some of the university fees, while others may grant a full loan to fund university studies. The living expenses in the UK are covered by a maintenance student loan. 2. Grants and Scholarships International students can apply for a variety of scholarships in the United Kingdom. Scholarships can be need-based or merit-based. Scholarships are available through certain universities, as well as through government or non-governmental organizations. Some of the leading universities in the UK, such as Oxford University, University of Cambridge, and University College London, are known to provide grants and scholarships worth up to ₹26.5 lakhs per year to international students. Some popular international student scholarships in the UK are listed below: Inlaks Scholarships Cardiff India Scholarships Chevening Fellowships GREAT Scholarships Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 3. Part-Time Jobs Because of the easing of regulations governing the UK work visa, it is now simpler for international students, particularly Indian students, to obtain a part-time job. Your child can work up to 20 hours per week at the degree level if they have a full-term visa during the study time. Part-time work in fields such as marketing, accounting, healthcare, and education is usually more rewarding. 4. Teaching and Research Assistantships Your child may even be able to finance their studies in the UK using research assistantships. This type of student finance is available to students seeking higher education in the form of a Ph.D. or any other related PG degree in the United Kingdom. Students are typically compensated based on a specific number of hours worked, a fixed pay, or a fee exemption through scholarships. 5. Alternative Funding Sources Other student finance possibilities in the UK include travel grants for specified periods, awards for specific disciplines such as healthcare, nursing, and others, NHS support for dental or medical studies, and funding from outside organizations. Sending your child to study in the UK is not easy, especially due to the exorbitant cost, but there are ways to ease these up and make it possible to fund their studies. Always go through all the funding options available before choosing one from multiple sources to be clear. If there is still any confusion or concern, the team of financial advisors at EduFund is just a call away to clarify any doubt or even gain information about these aspects. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial planning; building this habit as a student can help your child in the long run. If you are planning to send your child abroad or to a different city to pursue their higher education, then here is an article you must share on how to save money every month as a student with your child and your friends! 8 tips to save money as a student  The public image of a student is always of a broke kid struggling to make ends meet. Most kids fail to save every month without budgeting, poor planning, and making impulse decisions. To avoid falling into this trap, all you and your child needs is a monthly budget. Let's look at some easy tips that your child can use to save money every month. Monthly Budget: Having a budget and sticking to it is extremely important as a student. If you give Rs. 20,000 to your child for monthly expenses, then make sure they prioritize their bills and needs above everything else. The amount left can go towards luxuries, outings, savings, or investing. This will not only help them learn the importance of spending but also build a great habit of keeping track of their expenditures.    Crisis Funds: We live in unstable times where an emergency can consume all your family savings. You should create a crisis fund for your child to prepare for these emergencies. Please encourage them to put some money towards this fund every month. This will keep them secure for a few days or months, depending on the amount they have saved.    Shared Accommodation: Living alone can be fun, but it is also costly. A secure way to save money as a student is to opt for sharing accommodation or on-campus dorms so your child can save money and use it for other purposes.    Borrowed Books: Borrowing college books is another way to save money as a student every month. College books can be heavy on the pocket, and your child may have to buy different books for classes/courses for a short while, like 6 –7 months. So, to save money, it's better to borrow these books from your seniors or the library rather than spending thousands of rupees on a single book.    Part-time Jobs: Many countries allow students to work part-time during the semester to pay for their daily expenses. This is a brilliant way to make money as a student. If your child is studying abroad, taking a part-time job can help them become more independent and disciplined. Please encourage them to find employment in their field.    Homemade food: A sure-shot way to save money as a student is to eat out less and make homemade food. It is a cheap alternative as restaurant food can be expensive, especially in foreign countries.    Student Discounts: Brands like Adidas, Spotify, Netflix, and many more companies offer student discounts. All you need is to provide a student ID to avail the benefits and save money as a student!     Investing: The best tip for saving money every month as a student is to invest a small amount in your chosen fund. Whether it's Rs. 100 or 500, start investing this amount monthly, and watch the funds grow to new heights. Many funds have SIPs starting as low as Rs. 100 to encourage new investors to enter the market and reap its benefits in the long run.   Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT FAQ How to save money as a student in India? The best way to save money as a student in India is to create a monthly budget and follow it regularly. Another way to save is to develop skills that you can use to generate an income or get a part-time job to cover your daily expenses. Try to follow the investment rule of 50-30-20. 50% of your income should go towards your needs and paying bills, 30% towards wants and luxuries, and 20% should be used for investing and saving for the future. How can a teenager save money in India?  There are many ways to become financially independent teenagers in India. You can save money by avoiding EMIs, and impulse purchases like buying the new iPhone and taking up part-time jobs or paid internships to gain better skills. As a teenager, saving money and building your skills are better.  Is saving Rs. 1000 a month as a student good? Saving any amount is excellent for a student. Try to invest a portion of this money towards funds regularly to ensure you reap the benefits of compounding. You can start investing with as little as Rs. 100 or 500!    These tips on saving money every month as a student can help you instill a good habit of saving and investing in your child from a young age. Help them learn the value of money and encourage them to be careful with their expenses.