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Higher education has become a necessity in today's competitive environment. And the cost of quality education is increasing every year gradually. Many of us don't plan for such high college fees, and some of us cannot anticipate it. So, to pursue higher education, we need external funds, which can be funded by a loan from a financial institution. Now, the question arises of which loan we should go for, either a personal or education loan. Education loan is not so popular, whereas personal is known by most of the population. An education loan is best suited to meet the expenses of higher education as it is designed to meet the requirements of educational expenses. 1. Interest rates Education loan comes with lower interest rates. Generally, education loans have comparatively lower interest rates than personal loans. The interest on an education loan ranges from 6.85 - 11% annually, depending on various factors like the course you are applying for, college, etc. The interest rates on personal loans range from 10 - 17% annually. Please note that the range mentioned may change, subject to the change in interest rates. 2. Tax benefit When you pay the interest on an education loan, you can claim the deduction for the amount you are paying as interest and get the tax benefit under Sec 80 E of the Indian Income Tax Act. There is no upper limit for claiming the deduction. You can claim as high as you are paying. And you can claim it for a maximum of 8 years. There is no tax benefit on personal loan interest paid to the lender. 3. Loan amount You take an educational loan for as low as Rs 50,000 and as high as Rs 1.5 Crores, depending on the vendor. But the personal loan amount ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 50 Lac. However personal loan amount will wholly depend on the borrower's credit score. 4. Moratorium period This is the period when the borrower is temporarily exempted from paying the installments. The aim is to give students sufficient time to complete the course and find a job. This period is extended from 6 -12 months after completing the degree. The interest is charged on the loan amount as simple interest. In a personal loan, no moratorium period is applied (under normal circumstances). Conclusion Education loans have multiple benefits like a moratorium period, lower interest rates, etc., which personal loan does not possess. Considering an education loan over a personal loan could be the right choice FAQs Can I use personal loan for education? Yes, individuals can use a personal loan to finance their education expenses. The loan amount and the repayment tenure depends on your credit profile and your loan provider. What is the difference between an education loan and a personal loan?An education loan is a loan to finance your higher education while a personal loan is a loan used for servicing personal needs like buying a car, a world tour, covering your personal expenses and much more. A personal loan can be used for paying for education expenses but an education loan cannot be used for your personal expenses like marriage, a house or other miscellaneous expenses. An education loan can be taken only by a student and has benefits like a longer repayment tenure, competitive interest rates, a grace period and tax benefits. Should you take a personal loan for your higher education? It is not a wise choice to take a personal loan for higher education because a personal loan's ticket size is not big enough to cover all your education expenses. Personal loans have a repayment cycle that begins immediately unlike education loans where students can get a moratorium period while studying. Benefits like a longer repayment tenure, competitive interest rates, a grace period, and tax benefits make education loan feasible and an attractive option in the long run.

If you want to become financially secure, it is extremely important to set short-term, mid-term, and long-term financial goals. Even if you plan everything, you cannot be fully prepared for a crisis that may come up anytime. The unexpected bills are the main reasons that affect our financial goals.   Ways to set financial goals 1. Establish a budget  Determining a particular amount of budget is the first and most important thing. You should have a clear idea of where you stand and how you can proceed forward. Money tends to slip through the cracks in the pockets of individuals. You can download an app that can track all of your expenses. Moreover, you need to have the information from all of your accounts in one single place so that you can conduct a proper analysis of the same.   In due course of time, you will realize that the small spending that you do in the canteen every day might add up to a considerable amount. Once you get an idea of how you spend, you will be able to track and save your expenses.  Create Smart Education Goals 2. Categorize your financial goals Proper categorization of your financial goals will help you target your orders. This should be the basic rule when you are proceeding toward your financial goals. It should be broadly divided into short-term, mid-term, and long-term financial goals. When you are setting up your long-term goal, you need to keep in mind all the targets that you have for the short term.   Start by listing all of your routine non-negotiable expenses that are involved. The amount that is left after all the expenses are over goes for investment. You have to make sure that you have set down the goals with an estimate of their costs. Make wise decisions when you are choosing different investment options. For this, you will have to figure out the amount that you need to keep aside monthly for investment. Additional read: Financial mistakes to avoid 3. Deadline for each goal When you have set the categories of different types of financial goals, start setting deadlines for each of them. Long-term financial planning should be followed religiously. There can be minor changes that can be made to short-term goals. Suppose you have a child who will start going to college by 2035, then you should start saving and investing accordingly with a deadline in mind. When the deadline arrives, you must be ready with the funds that will be required for your college education.   Next, if you plan to take a trip to your favorite luxurious destination, start saving and investing with a specific deadline that has to be followed at all costs. You can keep a tab on all the deadlines through a financial goals worksheet. It will also help you to analyze your dates from time to time. 4. Prioritizing all types of financial goals  With all the types of financial goals queued up, you need to start prioritizing all types of financial goals. If a situation of urgency is created, you would know which goal has to be prioritized first. Moreover, label each goal on your worksheet as need, critical, and want. This will create a distinct difference between the types of priorities that you keep for your finances. 5. Clear off your debts and build an emergency fund  Clearing off your debts will help a lot to streamline your entire financial planning. First and foremost, take a look at all of your existing debts. Make a proper plan for it and clear it off as soon as possible. Once that has been done, you can start creating your emergency fund. Your emergency fund should contain at least 12 to 24 months of your living expenses which will include your loan EMI as well. Make sure that you dip into your emergency fund only if it is extremely necessary. It can prove to be extremely counterproductive on your part if you set aside this fund completely. FAQs Why is setting financial goals important? Setting financial goals is crucial for achieving financial security and planning for unforeseen financial crises. How can I track my expenses effectively? You can track expenses by using budgeting apps that consolidate your accounts and analyze your spending patterns. Why should I categorize my financial goals? Categorizing goals into short-term, mid-term, and long-term helps you allocate resources efficiently and plan for each type of goal. How can I set deadlines for my financial goals? Establish deadlines by considering the nature of each goal and your specific target, ensuring timely savings and investments. Why is prioritizing financial goals important? Prioritization helps you identify which goals to focus on first, and labeling them as "need," "critical," or "want" clarifies their importance in your financial plan.

Rising inflation is eating your money. If you don't park your savings in a suitable asset class that can beat inflation, then with time, the value of your savings decreases. Basically, with time, the value of the currency decreases. For example, in 2002, you could buy 20 apples for Rs 100, but in 2022, you can only buy two apples for the same Rs 100. So, you must put your savings in a suitable asset class to beat inflation.  Saving as a parent is essential for your child's future needs. Not only to fulfill the child's needs but also to maintain and upgrade the quality of living. Almost every parent wants to save for their children, but some fail to do that. The reasons could be that they cannot save enough, don't know where to put all their savings, etc. In this topic, we'll explain how parents can save through SIP investment. How does SIP work? SIP stands for Systematic Investment Plan, a financial tool to invest a fixed amount regularly in a mutual fund scheme. Investing regularly gives you the benefit of rupee cost averaging. This means that you buy at a low and high price and the overall cost of buying averages out. With the SIP, you don't need to time the market. How can SIP investment help parents to save? Parents can do the proper planning for their child's higher education and marriage. A financial plan will help them know how much to save for a specific goal and the amount required to save on a monthly basis to achieve the desired target. Putting a lumpsum amount for any specific goal may be a difficult task. But saving monthly could make it easy. SIP investment gives you the option to save as low as Rs 100. So, you can save and invest with Rs 100 only. With an example, let's see how much you need to save as lumpsum and as SIP for your child's higher education. Let's assume your child's age is one year old, and you want to send your kid for an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad. So, technically you have almost 20 years to save. The present cost of attending a master's degree from IIM Ahmedabad is Rs 30 Lac. And after 20 years, it might cost you Rs 1 Crore, assuming an inflation of 7% annually. Let's see how much you need to save as lumpsum and as SIP for your child's higher education. If you look at the table below, you can see that you only need to save Rs 10,000/month for your target, whereas if you want to invest a lumpsum amount, you need Rs 9 Lac for the same target. That's how SIP investment helps your little money to grow over the period and helps you to achieve the desired target. Investing through SIP can make your investment journey more affordable and efficient. Monthly SIP AmountTotal Amount InvestedAccumulated Amount ₹10,000 ₹ 24,00,000 ₹1,03,84,852Note: The calculation is done for 240 months.Source: EduFund Research Team Calculate Investment Returns Lumpsum Amount RequiredTotal Amount InvestedAccumulated Amount ₹9,00,000 ₹ 9,00,000 ₹1,03,33,790Note: The calculation is done for 240 months.Source: EduFund Research Team Conclusion: Investing through SIP can help parents by saving little money to make a large corpus. SIP has been the most effective way of saving and investing. FAQs Can I invest in SIP for my child? Yes, you can invest in SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) for your child's future. It's a smart way to save and build wealth for their education, milestones, or financial security. Just ensure you choose the right mutual funds and set up the SIP in your child's name or as a guardian. At what age should I start SIP? You can start a SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) at any age. The earlier you begin, the more time your investments have to grow, potentially leading to better financial outcomes. Starting in your early 20s or as soon as you have the means is generally advisable. How do I start SIP for my child? To start a SIP for your child, follow these steps: Choose suitable mutual funds. Approach a mutual fund company or a financial institution. Complete the required documentation. Open an account in your child's name or as a guardian. Set the SIP amount and frequency. Link your bank account for automatic payments. Is SIP good for child education? Yes, SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) is an excellent way to save for your child's education. It allows you to invest regularly, potentially building a substantial fund by the time your child needs it for higher education expenses.

What is a Balanced Advantage Fund? A balanced advantage fund is a fund that can invest 0-100% in the equity market or 0-100% in the debt market dynamically as per the prevailing market condition. For example - If a fund manager finds that the price of the equity market has gone up, he will tilt the portfolio more toward the debt market. Likewise, if the equity market trades at a discount, then the fund manager can tilt/shift the portfolio toward the equity market.  The valuation is the internal process of the fund. Based on valuation, the fund manager can take the call. This way, the fund manager can take the opportunity and change the asset allocation. The fund manager can go aggressive in the equity market or can also decide to play conservatively to reduce the portfolio's volatility. The aim is to minimize the portfolio's downside risk and maximize the returns.  Who should invest? Investors who are looking for long-term wealth creation. Investors who are not comfortable with the market volatility. Investors who do not want to face high volatility and looking for equity-like returns. Investors who are unsure which type of fund they should invest in, whether in the equity or debt-oriented fund. Risk-averse equity investors with an investment horizon of more than three years. Additional read: Financial mistakes to avoid Why should you invest? A balanced advantage fund is a dynamically rebalancing fund between two asset classes, i.e. equity and debt. It has the complete flexibility of rebalancing from 0-100% in both asset classes. It provides you with better risk-adjusted returns. It manages the equity market volatility and provides stability in the portfolio by diversifying the portfolio into the debt market. It offers you equity-like returns, which help your portfolio to grow at a much faster rate than debt funds and also helps you to beat inflation. Minimizes the downside risk and provides scope for growth by investing in the equity market. When should you invest? When the volatility in the equity market increases you do not want to have such high exposure to the prevailing volatility. When you want equity-like returns but do not want to face high liquidity. First-time mutual fund investor looking for long-term wealth creation. Conclusion Try to allocate some portion of your portfolio towards a balanced advantage fund if you want to reduce the portfolio's volatility. A balanced advantage fund is like a season fund. FAQs What is a Balanced Advantage Fund? A Balanced Advantage Fund can dynamically invest 0-100% in either the equity or debt market, depending on market conditions. Who should consider investing in Balanced Advantage Funds? Investors seeking long-term wealth creation, those uncomfortable with market volatility, and those unsure about equity or debt-oriented funds can benefit. Why invest in Balanced Advantage Funds? These funds offer flexible asset allocation, better risk-adjusted returns, and stability by diversifying into the debt market. They provide equity-like returns, growth potential, and risk mitigation. When is the ideal time to invest in Balanced Advantage Funds? Consider these funds when equity market volatility increases, and you want equity-like returns without excessive risk. What is the aim of Balanced Advantage Funds? The aim is to minimize portfolio downside risk, maximize returns, and adapt to market conditions, providing both stability and growth.

There are collateral vs. non-collateral education loans in India. If you have decided to take a loan to fund your child’s further studies securing one is important to advance your child's future. As you do your research and try to figure out which loan is better for your child, it is important for you to keep several parameters related to collateral in mind https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Icp7ASAGrjw What is a collateral education loan? Collateral is typically property that you give to the lending bank as security against the loan you are taking. The larger the education loan, the greater has to be the value of the collateral. This works as a reassurance to the bank in case the borrower is unable to repay the loan. What is a non-collateral education loan? When the lender issues an education loan without any security, it is known as a non-collateral loan. In this kind of loan, the bank considers the student’s academic track record and the financial track record of the co-borrowers. Now a lot of parents debate over which of these is a better loan format. The fact is both types of loans serve a purpose. Apply for Education Loans As a co-borrower, you will need to analyze the features of both loan types and choose the one that works better for your situation. ParticularsCollateralNon-CollateralCost of loan7-9% per annum11-14% per annumHow much loan can you getUp to 90% of collateral value, can even go up to Rs. 1.5 crUsually limited toRs.50 lakhsTenure of RepaymentUp to 15 yearsLimited to 10 yearsRepayment periodUsually after 1 year, of course, completion/start of the jobAfter 6 months of job completion, immaterial whether the student has got a jobFlexibilityThe interim grace period before the loan is to be repaid can be extended on request if the student is unable to find employmentThe interim grace period before the loan is to be repaid can be extended on request if the student is unable to find employmentDocumentationExtensive paperwork, with a confirmation of admission to the institute of your choiceMinimal paperwork and admission confirmation requiredProcessing feesA percentage of the loan amountA percentage of the loan amount, but these can be negotiatedProcessing timeAnywhere from 30 to 45 days depending on the documents submitted. The due diligence done to verify the ownership of the collateral is quite stringent10-15 days if all your documents are in order: admission confirmation, the credit history of co-borrowers, credit scores, etcWhat can be offered as collateralProperty with no liabilities, fixed deposits, stocks, bonds, etc- Both collateral v/s non-collateral loans have much to offer the customer. While on paper, a collateral loan definitely makes a lot of financial sense, everyone may not be able to manage the collateral of large properties or other instruments that the bank may require as security. So it helps to review all the options in the market and pick the one that works best for your specific situation. Whether you opt for one or the other, there are a few thumb rules you absolutely must keep in mind when applying for an education loan.  If you have plans to take an education loan to fund your child’s higher studies, start saving from the early years. Borrowing money should be your backup for the shortfall in your funds. Do not make overseas education plans with the money you can borrow. Financial conditions can change at any point in time, and having your own funds will give you the confidence you need to guide your child to the career option of their own choice. Once you have taken an education loan, your priority should be to save money and pay back the amount as soon the possible. Interest rates and rising inflation rates make the amount of your loan repayment variable, and it is easy to get stuck in the debt trap if you do not have a clear repayment strategy. Help your child enter the adult world with as little debt as possible and encourage good financial discipline from the early days. This will stand him/her in good stead in adult years. Last but not least, once you have identified the loan that works for you, do due diligence, read the small print, ask questions, and then go ahead and take it. Let this loan be just the stepping stone to a great life that is planned for your child as he/she steps into a whole new world of global studies and learning.  Do not let a lack of funds hold your child back. With a little planning and discipline, you will find several tips to plan your finances well and secure a future for your child’s higher education. FAQs What is the main difference between collateral and non-collateral education loans? The primary difference is that collateral education loans require an asset as security, while non-collateral loans don't require any asset. Collateral loans may offer lower interest rates, while non-collateral loans are unsecured. What assets can be used as collateral for education loans? Common assets used as collateral include property, investments, or even a vehicle. The exact types of assets accepted can vary between lenders. Do non-collateral education loans have higher interest rates? Non-collateral education loans often come with higher interest rates because they carry more risk for the lender, as there's no collateral to secure the loan. Are there any advantages to taking a collateral education loan? Yes, collateral education loans typically offer lower interest rates, higher loan amounts, and may be easier to qualify for, especially if you have valuable assets to pledge. Can I switch from a non-collateral to a collateral education loan later on? It may be possible to refinance or convert your non-collateral education loan into a collateral loan if you have assets to pledge, but the terms and feasibility will depend on your lender's policies.

Studying abroad is an experience that can improve language abilities and advance job possibilities. According to a recent HSBC study, parents all over the world appear to agree with this idea.  If you’re one of those parents then this page is for you. The article below will discuss the costs of sending your child to Singapore and how to manage their expenses. How much does studying in Singapore cost? Singapore is well-known for its excellent education and upholds high levels of education and learning. Studying in Singapore is generally less expensive than in other popular overseas study destinations. Let’s discuss the various costs of higher education in detail. Cost of school education in Singapore The price of education is determined by the kind of school or university your child is enrolled in. Also, it tends to depend on when you intend to send your child to school or university. When you send children to the pre-nursery classroom (18 months of age to two years), the monthly fee can range from as low as $256.80 for a half-day program to as heavy as $1,978.60 for a half-day program at some elite institutions.  Regarding your child's primary or secondary school education, there are approximately 70 international schools to choose from. Annual fees can range from $10,000 to $15,000, with a maximum of $40,000. You may also choose to enroll your child in one of Singapore's public schools. The annual fee for foreigners ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, roughly half the cost of such an international school. College tuition fees in Singapore vary based on the university and course your child attends, as well as your nationality. Tuition fees in Singaporean schools may be higher than that in neighboring countries. Let’s discuss the cost of higher education in Singapore.  Cost of college education in Singapore  A public university typically costs between SGD$ 8,000 and SGD$ 9,000/ year. However, this is the concessionary price. Non-subsidized and non-Singaporean students pay around SGD 10,000 or more. The government also subsidizes some programs in Singaporean schools, regardless of nationality. The government of Singapore provides a substantial tuition subsidy in the form of a MOE Subsidy. It is available to any eligible students. There are broadly two types of universities in Singapore: public and international university campuses. The government primarily supports public universities. As a result, they might provide identified students admittance at a lowered tuition fee. Certain universities charge international students more than local Singaporeans. Singapore's international and foreign universities and colleges are typically costlier than public university campuses. Best Singapore Universities Read More What is the cost of tuition fees at public universities in Singapore? We are comparing the tuition fees for one year for accounting and finance programs at six public-funded universities. For 2019, all tuition fees are in Singapore dollars and include local tax. Singapore's Ministry of Education (MOE) provides tuition subsidies (Tuition Grants) to international students attending local public colleges. Under this scheme, international students will be expected to find employment in Singapore-registered major corporations for a minimum of three years after graduation. As a result, overseas students (non-MOE subsidies) must pay an average of SGD$33,000 *3 = SGD$99,000 to finish an accountancy Bachelor's degree at a public university in Singapore. Other degree programs may take longer than 4 years and may cost more. Top 6 Scholarships in Singapore Read More What is the cost of tuition fees at international and foreign universities in Singapore? The table shown below provides a more detailed breakdown of tuition fees for a few institutions that offer accounting and finance-related programs: All tuition fees are the full course program fees in Singapore dollars for 2019, inclusive of local tax. As seen above, the international student tuition fees to complete a Bachelor's degree at a foreign and overseas university in Singapore range from SGD$ 51,840 to SGD$ 115,350, based on the type of course. Tuition for a master's degree ranges between SGD$ 46,080 and SGD$ 133,884. The cost of studying in Singapore varies according to the level of education. The cost of living varies according to individual living standards, but the average monthly fee for a student could range from SGD$ 1,000 to $3,000. Numerous private institutions are also very popular. Among the top names is INSEAD, a global management school with a campus in Singapore that allures international students from all over the world. Indeed, in the last decade, the country's growing education sector and geographic advantage have persuaded many foreign universities to establish campuses there. Among the well-known institutions are the Chicago Business School and the Technische Universität München, Asia. Conclusion Singapore provides quality education at a reasonable price, resulting in greater value for money. The universities are internationally recognized, have collaborations, and are founded on innovative pedagogy. Parents wishing to send their children abroad must start financial planning early on to support their children in the best. FAQs How much does it cost to send a child to school in Singapore? The cost of school education varies based on the type of school and the grade level. It can range from around $256.80 to $1,978.60 per month for pre-nursery, and annual fees for international schools range from $10,000 to $40,000. What are the tuition fees for college education in Singapore? Tuition fees for public universities typically range from SGD$8,000 to SGD$9,000 per year for local students, with higher fees for non-subsidized and non-Singaporean students. The government provides substantial tuition subsidies through MOE Subsidies. How much does it cost to study at international and foreign universities in Singapore? Tuition fees at foreign and overseas universities in Singapore can range from SGD$51,840 to SGD$115,350 for a Bachelor's degree and from SGD$46,080 to SGD$133,884 for a Master's degree, depending on the program. What is the average cost of living for students in Singapore? The average monthly cost of living for students in Singapore can range from SGD$ 1,000 to $3,000, depending on their individual living standards and choices. What factors make studying in Singapore an attractive option for international students? Singapore offers quality education at a reasonable price, with internationally recognized universities, innovative pedagogy, and geographic advantages. Many foreign universities have established campuses in the country, making it an attractive destination for students.

A target maturity fund is a fund category with a fixed maturity date. As the maturity date gets closer, the maturity value decreases to zero, and the fund ends its existence. The maturity date of these funds is typically marked in the framework name. The regularity of target maturity funds' returns distinguishes them. Investors who maintain these funds until maturity hope for returns connected to the indicative yields when invested. Returns on target maturity debt funds According to several fund strategists and fund planners, the emergence of bond yields will likely offer the chance for wealthy investors to acquire a 6.5% return in target maturity strategies within the next five years. They genuinely think investing in a combination of such strategies that mature between 2026 and 2028 will provide investors with superior risk-adjusted returns. Target maturity funds provide investors with a predictable return if held until maturity. Such schemes have set maturity and engage passively in bonds with related maturities, which serve as the fund's market portfolio and provide visibility of returns. When the fund matures, investors receive their investment proceeds back. They have occasional liquidity because they are open-ended, and venture capitalists can purchase and sell them at Net Asset Value (NAV). The expense ratio in direct plans is 15-20 basis points and 30-40% points in regular programs, reducing the cost for venture capitalists. Investment advisors recommend target maturity funds because speculators have been having difficulties with their fixed-income investment portfolio over the last year, as bond yields have risen by 142 basis points, weakening the rate of return. Additional read: How to start investing in mutual funds? Target maturity funds are more tax-efficient With increasing and decreasing interest rates on assured financial products, numerous risk-averse speculators, who previously invested in product lines such as financial institution fixed deposits, PPFs, and NSCs, have shifted to debt funds for understandable reasons.  According to these investors, debt funds have become less volatile than general equity funds and much more tax-efficient than fixed deposits, PPFs, and NSCs, with the potential for higher returns.  However, investors are still vulnerable to the risk of default, which is the possibility of losing interest and principal payments, as well as interest rate risk, which is the risk of price volatility due to interest rate changes. TMFs offer greater liquidity than FMPs Target maturity funds (TMFs) assist investors in better exploring the risks linked to debt funds by integrating their investment portfolio with the fund's maturity date.  All those are debt funds that passively measure an underpinning bond index. Thereby, such funds' investment strategy consists of bonds that are a component of the total bond portfolio, with maturities that are close to the fund's outlined maturity. All investment returns obtained during the holding period are invested back in the fund, and the bonds in the investment are retained to maturity.  Target Maturity bond funds, like FMPs (Fixed Maturity Plans), continue operating in an accrual mode. TMFs, unlike FMPs, are open-ended and are available as target-maturity debt index funds. As a result, TMFs provide more liquidity than FMPs. TMFs have a uniform portfolio in terms of duration because all of the bonds in the fund's portfolio are deemed to be maturing as the stated maturity of the fund. The fund's duration decreases over time by holding the bonds until maturity, making investors less vulnerable to price volatility induced by shifts in interest rates Additional read: What are offshore funds? Strong interest in target maturity funds Investors have shown a strong interest in Target Maturity Funds, with maturities ranging from 2026 to 2027. Financial planners recommend this maturity portion to investors for tax indexation and optimal yields. These maturities offer yields ranging from 7.48% to 7.55%. Beyond these maturities, such as 2028 and 2029, the market is relatively illiquid. Passively-managed target maturity funds The portfolio of passively managed target maturity funds is well-known because it is linked to an index of bonds of investment promotion loans, government securities, or a composite index of the two. There is also greater return predictability because the fund aims to provide returns closer to the index's yield to maturity if the investor holds the fund until maturity. Mutual funds have initiated further index-based goal maturity funds, as all ETFs may not generate enough liquidity on stock exchanges, resulting in wider deviations between the executed price and the ETF's intraday NAV (iNav). The new SEBI regulations for passive funds aim to increase retained until maturity because they provide some predictive ability of return, which is liquidity for ETFs on exchanges by stating that no transaction under Rs 25 crore could be sorted directly with the AMC. All such transactions must go through exchanges. SEBI also wants to grow the economic ecosystem by rewarding market-makers who will provide liquidity for ETFs. Conclusion Target Maturity Funds must ideally be important for investors transitioning from long-established deposit accounts to debt funds. FAQs What are Target Maturity Funds, and how do they work? Target Maturity Funds, also known as Target Date Funds, are investment funds designed to align with an investor's target retirement date. They automatically adjust their asset allocation over time, becoming more conservative as the target date approaches. How do Target Maturity Funds choose their investments? Target Maturity Funds typically invest in a mix of stocks, bonds, and cash equivalents. The asset allocation is determined by the fund manager and adjusts over time to reduce risk as the target date nears. What's the primary benefit of investing in Target Maturity Funds? Target Maturity Funds provide a convenient, hands-off approach to investing for retirement. They automatically rebalance to manage risk, making them suitable for investors who prefer a set-and-forget strategy. Can I invest in a Target Maturity Fund for a different financial goal, not just retirement? While they're primarily designed for retirement, some investors use them for other financial goals. However, it's essential to understand that the fund's asset allocation will still follow the specified target date strategy. What happens when a Target Maturity Fund reaches its target date? When a Target Maturity Fund reaches its target date, it typically becomes more conservative, shifting towards income-generating assets. Investors can choose to redeem their shares or reinvest in a new fund.

In the financial markets, there is no other way to quickly build riches. Investing is a drawn-out process that calls for perseverance, dedication, and careful attention. Both short-term and long-term investments are possible with your capital. Both investing types have significant benefits and drawbacks. Market professionals advise conducting adequate studies before making investments. What is appropriate for one investor may not be compatible with your financial goals. As a result, you must consider both your willingness to accept risks and your overall goals. What is a short-term investment? Short-term investments are exchanged for a little time, usually up to three years. These instruments have great liquidity and typically offer fewer market risks. Short-term investments include the following categories of financial instruments: Gilt Funds: These funds solely invest in government assets. These are secure investing options because there is no credit risk. Treasury bills: These bills have a 91-day redemption period and are a highly liquid investment. Ultra short-term debt funds: They have a three to six-month maturity duration and offer substantially greater returns. Low-duration debt funds: They have maturities of six to twelve months. These funds make investments in debt and products for the money market. Fixed deposits held by companies: These may have a duration of longer than a year. One to five years are the terms for post office time deposits. Recurring deposits: An RD can be opened for as short as six months. Money Market Funds: Investments are made in money market instruments by money market funds, which have a one-year maximum redemption time. Sweep-in-Fixed Deposits: With a minimum term of about a year, these give relatively greater returns compared to savings accounts' modest rates of interest. Bank fixed deposits: The maturity period can be between 14 days and 10 years. After they mature, these deposits may be renewed. Since some banks forbid early withdrawals, liquidity may be an issue. Large-cap mutual funds: These funds put your money in businesses with large market capitalizations and offer reliable returns after only one to three years of investment. These funds are low-risk investments because they are made in well-known, huge corporations. What is a long-term investment? Investments with a long-term objective, usually five years or more, normally have better returns. These have larger rewards and more market risks, enabling you to invest in risky market assets. The following categories best describe these investing options: 1. Equity mutual funds This is an additional long-term investment option that offers better returns. Long-term investing in small and mid-cap equities mutual funds can help you reach bigger financial objectives. 2. Stocks A portion of a company's value is physically represented by its stocks. To raise money for its operations, a firm will engage in an Initial Public Offering (IPO), following which its shares will be exchanged on stock exchanges. The market offers returns on investments in equities that can reach 16%, the highest of any investment option. Stock trading has gotten simpler in the era of digital technology. While investing in shares, you must have a strong understanding of the market. In order to determine when to buy and sell stocks, you must comprehend market fluctuations. A dependable financial partner that can offer simple features for opening an online Demat Account and a trading account is necessary when investing in stocks and securities. Additionally, keep an eye out for advantages like brokerage cashback, a free AMC period for Demat accounts, and no startup costs for Demat accounts. For the best chance of booking the most profit, make sure you have the best market reports. Invest according to your Goal Short term vs Long term investment As both have advantages and disadvantages, there is no obvious winner in this case. With lower risk, short-term investments enable you to quickly reach your financial objectives. On the other side, you might choose long-term investing opportunities if you have a larger risk tolerance and prefer higher returns. Choose short-term investments if you want to keep your money safe and are content with modest returns. However, if you want larger profits, you should invest in long-term investing opportunities. Conclusion Create your goals based on your needs and assess your risk tolerance to choose the right investment vehicles that suit your goals. If you need help, you can reach out to the team of financial advisors on the EduFund app, who will be available to you for any information or advice regarding your portfolio. FAQs What is the difference between short-term and long-term investments? Short-term investments have shorter holding periods (usually up to three years) and lower risk, while long-term investments aim for better returns over a longer duration. What are some examples of short-term investments? Examples of short-term investments include Gilt Funds, Treasury bills, Ultra short-term debt funds, and Money Market Funds. What are the primary categories of long-term investments? The primary categories of long-term investments include Equity mutual funds and Stocks. How do I decide between short-term and long-term investments? The choice depends on your risk tolerance and financial goals. Short-term investments offer safety and modest returns, while long-term investments provide higher potential returns but involve more risk. Where can I get financial advice for my investment decisions? You can seek advice from financial advisors available on the EduFund app to help you make informed investment decisions that align with your goals and risk tolerance.

According to a Times of India survey, single mothers head 4.5% of Indian households. Moreover, over 7% of parents are single and solely responsible for their child’s expenses. With education inflation pushing the cost of education over the roof, here is how single parents can save for higher education so that their child’s future is secure.   1. Proper budgeting  First tip on how single parents can save for higher education is Budgeting! It is extremely important for both the parent and the child. Your finances may suffer if you do not keep a track of when and where are you spending. Moreover, if you follow proper budgeting then it will help you track your monthly cash flow and analyze where you need to spend less.   You should set aside money for all your necessities as soon as you get your monthly amount. You must remember that if you follow proper budgeting and start saving early, it will help you gather a good corpus for your child.  2. Budget child expenses  The second tip is a tip on how single parents can save for higher education by budgeting child expenses! It’s important to track your child’s expenses as well. As a parent, you want to give the best to your child but it should not be beyond your monetary means. If you are a single parent responsible for pick and drop then try carpooling! Try to cut back on expenses where you can save and ensure your child gets the best of opportunities!    If you are choosing a school for your child, make sure that you make a list of them and then choose the one which provides good education and which fits your budget. Do not go for high-end schools just for the sake of the name. Make sure it’s in the neighborhood so that you don’t have to spend more money on transportation and your child can get home sooner to relax!  3. Create an emergency fund  The third tip is tip of how single parents can save for higher education is by creating an emergency fund! Emergency funds prove to be extremely handy in certain situations. If an unexpected circumstance comes up, it might as well take away all your savings which will be detrimental to your financial planning. Hence, you should focus on gathering an emergency fund for you and your child which should cover 12 to 24 months of living expenditure. It should also include loan EMIs. You have to be vigilant enough regarding any event which may come up and suck your savings. Make sure that you use this amount wisely and constructively.  You can build up an emergency fund in just three steps:  Decide the Size of the Emergency Fund  The thumb rule to generate an emergency fund is to focus on saving a corpus amount that can cover your expenses for more than 6 to 12 months.  Identify Highly Liquid Savings Product  Some of the common options for creating a contingency fund will include liquid or money market funds, short-term debt funds, savings bank accounts, floating rate funds, and so on.  Proper Financial Planning  In the final step, you have to make sure that you set aside a portion of your monthly income for generating this emergency fund. You should go for an automated procedure by setting up a SIP in a liquid fund or alternative debt fund.  4. Establish bank limits  Another tip is to set bank and credit card limits! Avoiding debt is the initial basic step that is crucial for saving up for your child. Next, you need to make sure that you are not spending more than what is required. For this purpose, you can set a limitation on your bank account. In such a scenario, you need to have a proper discussion with your child over the needs and the expenses involved.   The discussion should be candid or transparent with proper financial concerns, boundaries, and needs.   5. Invest wisely  The last tip is a tip on how single parents can save for higher education is to invest wisely. Investing in wise options is quite essential for single parents. Risk factors can lead to the demolishment of the generated corpus for your child’s education. Hence, you should invest in equity and mutual funds only if you have 10 to 15 years left for your child’s higher education. You can go for public provident funds which assure you a basic amount of interest for the amount that you put in.   There are recurring and fixed deposits in which you will get an interest based on what has been fixed by the bank. Moreover, you have options such as gold ETF where you can invest in gold.   While investing in gold ETF, make sure that you do not invest in the physical form of gold. These investment options will work really well if start with them as early as possible.  FAQs What are some practical strategies for single parents to save for their child's higher education? Single parents can save for higher education by creating a budget, exploring government aid, starting a monthly SIP to save for their child's education, and seeking scholarships and grants. How can single parents balance saving for education with other financial responsibilities? Single parents can strike a balance by setting clear financial goals, creating a budget, and prioritizing saving for education alongside other essential expenses. Can single parents benefit from education-focused scholarships and grants? Yes, many scholarships and grants are available specifically for single parents. Research and apply for these opportunities to help reduce the financial burden of education. How can single parents involve their children in the process of saving for higher education? Single parents can teach their children about financial responsibility and the importance of education by involving them in discussions about saving, setting financial goals, and exploring scholarship opportunities together. Are there community resources or organizations that provide support for single parents saving for higher education? Yes, some community organizations and non-profits offer financial literacy programs and support for single parents seeking to save for their child's education. Research local resources for assistance.

Investing in all asset classes and all categories of investments is not the right way to create your portfolio, especially if you’re starting with a small investment amount. This causes a significant overlapping of assets and over-diversification, leading to reduced and inefficient returns in the portfolio. How can you choose the right investment option that generates returns to help you meet your objectives with reasonable volatility? Do you want to know about the power of diversification? What is diversification? Diversification is the first and the most critical aspect of investing. Diversification is an investment strategy that involves investing in a mix of instruments to reduce risks and maximize portfolio returns. Mutual funds provide the best form of diversification. They offer exposure to multiple assets (stocks or debt) within a single fund. Moreover, there is a mutual fund for every investor with varying risk appetites and investment objectives. Advantages of diversification Diversification itself is one of the advantages of investing in Mutual funds. The main advantages of diversification are: - Minimize risk: Diversification in a portfolio reduces the overall risk of a portfolio. With proper diversification, there is a considerable reduction in the volatility of investment holdings. Creates a cushion: When diversified optimally, your portfolio can efficiently absorb significant, unpredictable market corrections without causing much loss to your portfolio. Better risk-adjusted returns: Diversification is not done to maximize risk solely. For example, if two portfolios generate the same percentage of returns, the diversified portfolio here takes less risk and has low volatility compared to the other portfolio. Compensating effect: The primary purpose of diversification is to prepare for all market conditions. So, when the market is highly volatile, in a well-diversified portfolio, even if one instrument has significant losses, the other instrument (for diversifying) would be chosen in such a way that it still generates returns to a certain extent to compensate for the losses incurred. Additional read: Why you should geographically diversify your portfolio? Why should you diversify? The first rule of investing is that "you should not put all eggs in one basket, " meaning you should not invest all your savings in one instrument. The primary purpose of diversification is that if one investment instrument in your portfolio tanks, the other having a negative correlation may rise, thereby reducing the overall portfolio loss. Common ways of diversification? Asset allocation can happen in several ways. Some common strategies used for portfolio diversification are: - 1. Different asset classes A portfolio should have a good balance between different asset classes as all would have a different impact when the market takes significant turns. For example, to compensate for the volatility seen in equity investments, one can invest in debt-based instruments or gold to hedge market risks. 2. Different instruments You can diversify into different instruments within the same asset class. While investing in equity mutual funds, you could choose between market cap funds like blue chip funds, mid-cap or small-cap funds, or even index funds for proper diversification. 3. International diversification Geographical diversification also helps maximize the portfolio's risk-adjusted returns. Investing in USD can take advantage of the currency movement and hedge over the currency risk. Different and diverse. What is the difference? One common mix-up investors get into is thinking that investing in different mutual funds is equivalent to diversifying. But different doesn’t necessarily mean diversifying. Even if you invest in different funds, those funds may have the same or similar holdings. This causes overlapping of asset allocation in one portfolio. Diversification does not happen when a factor similarly affects the holdings of both funds. Lastly, we’d say that holding a well-diversified portfolio is much better and more beneficial than just being invested in a single asset that is considered to be safe. In the end, just investing and generating returns is not enough. You should ensure that whatever you're saving is being optimally allocated so that your investments generate returns efficiently and effectively. Also, review your investments periodically to check whether or not they are in line with your goals and objectives. FAQs What is diversification? Diversification is an investment strategy that involves investing in a mix of instruments to reduce risks and maximize portfolio returns. Mutual Funds provide the best form of diversification. Why should you diversify? The primary purpose of diversification is that if one investment instrument in your portfolio tanks, the other having a negative correlation may rise, thereby reducing the overall portfolio loss. This strategy can help you minimize risk and protect your overall investment and capital from loss. How can I diversify my portfolio? As an investor, the best way to diversify is to distribute your investments across different asset classes. For example, to compensate for the volatility seen in equity investments, one can invest in debt-based instruments or gold to hedge market risks. A combination of these investments can help you weather the storms of bull and bear markets easily.

Overseas education can open numerous doors of growth and opportunities for a career, but it is expensive and places a huge financial burden on parents who want to send their children to foreign universities.  The covid-19 pandemic, along with other difficulties, has managed to ravage the savings of some parents to a great extent. Moreover, inflation has also led to high education costs, and it has now become difficult to ensure the education dreams of a student without proper financial planning.  If you are short on money for your child’s overseas education and have hit a roadblock, then it is important to look at options that will help in arranging the money. Tips to arrange study abroad funding 1. Installment option on fees Studying abroad is not easy as it requires a huge amount of money to meet numerous expenses. A big chunk of it goes towards the tuition fees, which have to be paid upfront, at least for a full year.  Times have changed, and educational institutes understand the difficulty of arranging bulk amounts to be paid as tuition fees.  Foreign universities are allowing the option of installment payments or deferred payments. If you are short on money for your child’s overseas education, apply for an installment option on tuition fees. Paying fees per semester is affordable compared to the yearly fees as it minimizes the burden on parents to a great extent. Foreign universities are offering financial assistance to students whose families are facing financial difficulties. In some cases, the fees of the student are reduced, and in other cases, the payments are deferred to a doable period so that the money shortfall does not impact the child’s education.  2. Fast-track your studies  Students can fast-track their study courses if they are facing a shortage of money and are unable to meet the educational expenses in full. Most foreign universities have two to three-year programs, which are subdivided into semester formats. Students have to earn a minimum number of credits during this period. When you are short on money, it is not feasible to complete the degree course by attending college for the entire period. Students can enroll for additional credits and complete the program early. This will bring down the education costs and manage the money shortfall.  3. Apply to university alumni for financial aid  Sometimes unforeseen circumstances can deplete the amount of money that the parents have saved for their child’s overseas education. They may have a considerable shortage of funds and may be unable to meet all the education expenses easily. Students can approach the university for financial assistance. Most universities have an alumni network that provides monetary aid to deserving students with exemplary records who are unable to finish their education just because of money shortages. The alumni network evaluates the student’s grades, work experience, past performances, and the reasons for money shortage and, if found satisfactory, compensates by paying the remaining fees.  Some universities have an existing fund for students who are brilliant performers but, due to circumstances, are unable to pay the fees. If the student applies for financial assistance, then the fees in such cases are either reduced or paid by the fund held by the university itself.  4. Select an education loan with care If you are short on money for your child’s overseas education, then a loan is also a viable option. Select the education loan with care. Banks and NBFCs are vital sources of loans; hence check whether any sources are calculating the interest amount on a flat rate basis or on a reducing balance.   Look at the interest rate and consider other factors like repayment tenure, margin amount, and moratorium period as they are equally important. Remember, the interest rate on a reduced amount will be considerably lower than the total loan amount, so choose wisely. The college cost calculator on the EduFund app helps in calculating the future cost of college, which gives parents time to plan and save for their child’s college expenses in the smartest possible way. Financial experts will create an education savings plan that will meet the requirements of a student’s education aspiration. It also offers an option of taking out low-interest education loans with top banks.   Conclusion The desire to educate a child abroad is natural, but it often takes a toll on the parents who find themselves short on money for their child’s overseas education. Planning the expenses in another country with another currency is a task that, if not done properly, can create serious issues later on.  FAQs What are the best ways for Indian students to arrange funding for studying abroad? Indian students can secure funding for studying abroad through scholarships, grants, education loans, part-time jobs, and assistance from family and sponsors. How can Indian students find scholarships for studying abroad? Indian students can search for scholarships through government programs, universities, private organizations, and online scholarship databases. Many countries and universities offer scholarships to international students. Are there specific scholarships available for Indian students to study abroad? Yes, several scholarships, like the Commonwealth Scholarship, Inlaks Scholarship, and Fulbright Scholarship, are specifically available for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. Can Indian students work part-time while studying abroad to support their education? Yes, many countries permit international students, including Indians, to work part-time during their studies. Students should check the work regulations of the destination country. What are the options for education loans for Indian students planning to study abroad? Indian students can avail of education loans from Indian banks and financial institutions, which offer loans designed for funding higher education abroad. The terms and conditions vary, so research different loan options.

Financial planning is extremely important so that you have great fortunes in the latter half of your life. If an individual plans his or her finances well enough, then a good corpus can be generated out of it. However, some financial mistakes can make financial planning harder. These mistakes may not be intentional but can be harmful! 5 financial mistakes to avoid at all costs 1. Spending unnecessarily  Most people do not plan their budgets well. It is a thumb rule that everyone should do their monthly budget planning as soon as they get their monthly income. You can keep aside money for necessities like school fees, ration, electricity bills, rent, and so on.   Apart from these things, there are certain miscellaneous costs that are also extremely important. You should keep a tentative amount for that as well. Make sure that you do not spend unnecessarily. If you do go overboard, try to cut off funds in different domains of requirement. Mistakes to avoid while investing in the US Market Read More 2. Paying off debt through savings  This is considered to be one of the biggest blunders committed in the finance domain. People get a mortgage of 15%, and the return of the savings plan is just 7%. So, people think that it is a good plan to pay off all the debts from the interest that is recovered through savings. You should never be doing that because if an individual takes money from their savings account, then they will tend to lose the interest that is earned by compounding. Furthermore, they will also incur a penalty for taking out money from a retirement fund or fixed deposit. 3. Ignoring the credit score  Ignoring the credit score is the next big mistake that people tend to commit. If you maintain a good credit score, it can help you save a lot of money on interest rates. Furthermore, maintaining a good credit score makes it easier to get a loan, and can fetch better rates of interest when you are buying a personal asset or getting a personal loan.   Inculcate a habit of checking your credit score every six months so that you can have a stable and progressive portfolio. Make changes according to the credit scores that are being offered. Common Investing Mistakes to Avoid Read More 4. Not saving for child education  With the growing rate of education inflation, if you miss out on saving and investing properly for your child’s education, then it might prove to be a heavy burden for you later. Hence, you should make sure that you are setting aside a certain amount every month that is invested in your child’s higher education. Moreover, the pandemic has also led to an increase in tuition fees of colleges in India and abroad.   If you start investing early enough, you will be able to generate a good corpus for your child’s higher education which will ensure no financial burden on him or her. 5. No savings plan for retirement  Retirement is a phase of a person’s life where he or she lives on what has been earned and invested until now. Hence, it is a crucial thing to plan and save wisely for retirement. It is best to start saving as early as possible. If you are still young and earn less income, then start small but be consistent and disciplined. Start a SIP for Rs. 100 or a PPF account. The earlier you start, the bigger the amount that you will be able to generate.   Furthermore, 15% to 20% of your annual income should go to retirement. This will make sure that you have a good future once you retire and you do not have to work anymore.  These are some financial mistakes to avoid if you want to secure a fine future for your family!   FAQs Why is financial planning important for parents? Financial planning ensures a secure future, especially in the latter years of life, and helps create a substantial corpus. What is the biggest blunder when paying off debts using savings? The mistake is using savings with lower returns to pay off high-interest debts, leading to loss of interest and possible penalties. Why should you pay attention to your credit score? A good credit score saves money on interest rates, facilitates loans, and offers better interest rates for personal assets and loans. Why is it crucial to saving for your child's education? Rising education costs can create a significant financial burden. Saving for higher education ensures a stable financial future for your child. What's the importance of a retirement savings plan? Planning and saving for retirement are essential to ensure financial security during retirement. Starting early and being consistent in savings is vital for a comfortable future.

Snapchat has grown very popular amongst Indians in general due to the nature of how it functions! Snapchat is swiftly becoming one of the most popular social media platforms on the Internet? Undergraduates originally designed it at Stanford University in the United States to enable the instant sharing of photographs and movies. It was previously known as Snapfish. Millions of individuals have posted millions of posts and received millions of messages since the app's introduction in 2021. This is partly because it employs a sophisticated algorithm for determining what the user wants to see and what they do not.   People are concerned that Snapchat will face significant competition from smaller social media businesses such as Hootsuite and Facebook, which explains why Snapchat stock has plummeted thus far. Analysts who follow social and digital media are crossing their fingers that Snapchat will avoid the same fate. The concern that Snapchat will forfeit the battle to these two behemoths is also fuelling the slide in stock prices.   Some predict a comeback in Snapchat shares since consumers enjoy sharing snaps with their friends and family. Facebook and MySpace might be used to make the same point. Analysts believe there is a significant possibility to profit from the advantages that Snapchat may provide investors.  Let's first look at some basic stuff associated with the company. Latest market close $33.26 52-week range 24.32 - 83.34 Dividend yield  NA Earnings per share  $-0.23 Beta 1.14 Market Capitalization $ 53.148 billion Average Volume (3m) 32,658,402 PE ratio  -  There are three ways in which you can invest in Snapchat from India   1. The direct way   You can trade in Snapchat from India by registering on a US brokerage account using technological 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.   Snapchat's share price was the US $33.26 on January 14, 2022, which is over 2500 rupees. However, the premium price of Snapchat shares should not stop you from investing in them because some platforms allow you to participate in fractional shares. With $1, you can buy a part of a Snapchat stock and own a piece of the corporation.   2. The ETF way   One way to invest in Snapchat 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 in that they're 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.   For example, you can invest in the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) and Global X social media ETF (SOCL), which contains Snapchat as one of its holdings.   Another option for investing in Snapchat stocks from India is to purchase ETFs that invest in Snapchat. 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 the investment would be made in Indian rupees, there is no investment restriction. Snapchat is included in several mutual funds, such as the Edelweiss' US Technology Fund of Fund but only to a minimal level. Furthermore, this strategy may prove to be more costly. An annual expense ratio will be required of you. The expense ratio of these funds is typically greater, 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 Snapchat would be a greater risk strategy for your portfolio.  FAQs What are the different ways to invest in Snapchat? There are several ways to start investing in Snapchat. You can directly invest in the company by buying its stocks through an app, you can invest in the company indirectly by investing in mutual funds or ETFs that will buy the stock as a part of their portfolio. How can I invest directly in Snapchat? Yes, you can invest in Snapchat from India on the EduFund. Download the App, set up your US account for free without any commission or opening charges. You also get first year free on account maintenance. Once its set up, you can invest in all the top US stocks on your own! What is the current share price for Snapchat? The current share price for Snapchat is $10.