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ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund is the second-largest asset management company in India. With over Rs 5 Lakh crore, the AMC is among the most trusted names in the mutual fund space. AMC offers products across asset classes. Let us talk about the flagship product of ICICI Prudential MNC Fund. ICICI Prudential MNC Fund Investment Objective The scheme primarily aims to provide capital appreciation by investing predominantly in equity and equity-related securities within the MNC space. Investment Process This is an open-ended equity scheme that follows an MNC theme, which falls under the thematic category. It invests in growing company stocks, which are selected based on extensive research and screening. Stocks selected for investment are reviewed periodically. ICICI Prudential MNC Fund broadly focuses on three approaches: 1. Indian Multi-national Companies - Companies incorporated in India with business operations across the globe. 2. Multi-national Companies listed in India - Foreign Companies having business operations in India and listed on Indian Stock exchanges. 3. Global Multi-national Companies - Foreign Companies having business operations across the globe but not listed on Indian Stock exchanges. Portfolio Composition The equity exposure is majorly in large-cap securities at 55%, followed by mid-cap and small-cap at 34% and 11%, respectively. The funds are invested across all the sectors without any specific sector being given more importance. The top 5 sectors hold nearly 53% of the portfolio. Note: 31st July 2023 Source: ICICI Pru Top 5 Holdings for ICICI Prudential MNC Fund NameSectorWeightage %Maruti Suzuki India LtdAutomobile8.70%Sun Pharmaceutical Ltd.Healthcare5.76%Infosys Ltd.Technology4.67%Hindustan Unilever LtdFMCG4.64%Bharti Airtel LtdTelecom Services4.12Note: Fund Performance since launch. Date: 17th June 2019Source: icicipruamc.com Invest in ICICI Mutual Fund Performance Since Inception Returns of ICICI Prudential MNC fund-Growth Option as of 30th June 2023. Particulars1 Year3 YearSince InceptionScheme20.4628.7920.20Nifty MNC TRI25.3419.8315.55Nifty 50 TRI 222.9124.5414.47Note: Fund performance since launch; Inception Date:17th June 2019.Source: icicipruamc.com The fund has given consistent returns and has outperformed both the benchmarks over the longer time horizon. If a person had invested Rs. 10,000 at the scheme's inception, it would now be valued at Rs. 21,020 against Rs. 17,923.78 in the NIFTY MNC TRI. Fund Manager The fund is ably managed by Roshan Chutkey, who has 28 years of experience and manages five funds in total. Who should invest in ICICI Prudential MNC Fund? Investors who aim to invest in a portfolio that invests primarily in securities within the MNC space and achieve goals like Wealth Creation. Why invest in ICICI Prudential MNC Fund? · High Quality & diversified portfolio: The scheme provides endeavors to invest in high-quality multi-national companies. · Flexibility: The scheme has the flexibility to invest across market caps and follow a sector-agnostic approach. · Bottom-up stock selection: The scheme follows a bottom-up approach while selecting stocks. Time Horizon · One should look at investing for a minimum of five years or more. · Investment through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help tackle broader equity market volatility. Conclusion ICICI Prudential MNC Fund provides access to well-researched multi-national companies, which are an integral part of the global economy and can navigate challenging market conditions with relative ease. The fund has consistently performed and has outperformed its benchmarks in the long run. Hence, investors seeking to invest for a long-term time horizon to generate high returns with higher risk can consider this fund

Investment is extremely important for your child’s future. But deciding the best investment tool is tough. Let’s look at Recurring deposits (RD) vs Mutual Funds to find out which tool can safeguard the future financial needs of your child.  Both Recurring deposits and Mutual Funds have their pros and cons. Let’s understand both of them in detail. What are Recurring deposits? Recurring deposits are a monthly financial commitment that provides customers with the flexibility to invest a specific amount. It follows a proper flow of saving money with ease. This facility is provided by most of the banks and NBFCs in India whose period can range somewhere between 6 months to 10 years. Key features of recurring deposits The schemes offering recurring deposits aim to habituate people to a regular saving pattern. The amount that can be saved depends from one bank to the other and it can be as small as rs 10. The minimum period for which you can avail of the scheme is 6 months and the maximum goes up to 10 years. The interest rate will the same as that of fixed deposits offered in the same bank. Interest rates vary from 5.8% to 7.8%. It provides an additional benefit of taking a loan against the deposit which acts as collateral. You can open an RD with your bank but remember that all RDs offer a fixed interest rate and are free of risk! Start Saving with EduFund What are Mutual funds?  Mutual Fund is a popular form of investment that acts as a financial tool that collects assets from different shareholders to invest in securities like bonds, debt, equity, stocks, and so on.   Each fund has a fund manager who looks after the performance, manages the risk, and allocates the fund’s assets.   Mutual funds are great for investors who cannot actively follow market performance and manage their investments on a daily basis. The fund manager acts as a custodian of your investments and takes calculated risks to provide maximum benefits! Key features of mutual funds Mutual funds manage a portfolio that contains stocks, bonds, and other types of securities. Mutual funds invest in different markets, industries, and companies. They offer market exposure to new investors who can reap the benefits of various professionally managed portfolios at a very low cost. There are different types of mutual funds such as equity, debt, hybrid, and gift funds. Mutual funds charge annual fees and a commission for managing the portfolio which might affect your overall returns. Debt funds are relatively safer than equity funds or hybrid funds. Invest in Mutual Funds Difference between recurring deposits and mutual funds  Frequency of Investment: Recurring Deposits require the investor to be regular and pay at fixed intervals of time whereas mutual funds involve frequencies like weekly, monthly, quarterly, and so on.  Returns: The returns in recurring deposits are based on the interest rate provided by the bank. In the case of mutual funds, the returns are variable and depend on the scheme which is opted by the investor.  Investment Schemes: There exists no schemes or options in the case of recurring deposits whereas there are various schemes available if you go for mutual funds.  Market Linked: Recurring deposits offer fixed interests at regular intervals of time because they are not affected by market performance. In the case of mutual funds, lumpsum, and SIP are subject to market risks. Hence, the returns are not guaranteed or fixed. How can these financial commitments be useful for your child? If your child is young and you have a low-risk appetite, then recurring deposits can be safe play for you. You can deposit a specific amount every month in his or her name which can be helpful for their higher education. It has no risk which assures that you will receive a good corpus at the end of your savings tenure. On the contrary, mutual funds are very effective if you consider the increasing rate of inflation in the domain of education. Equity is also a good option that you can go for. However, it is advised that you start these schemes well in advance so that you can counter volatility or crashes that may arise. Talk to an Expert FAQs Are mutual funds good for child education?  Yes, mutual funds can be a suitable investment option for funding a child's education due to their potential for growth over time. However, it's important to choose funds based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.   Which mutual fund is best for child education?  To find out the best mutual funds for your child's education savings, you need to visit EduFund. You can find class-wise mutual funds for your child's future savings. For instance, if your child is in 1st grade then there are plenty of mutual funds selected by our experts that you can invest in for their college! What is the best way to invest in a child's education?  Investing in a mix of diversified mutual funds, specifically those with a long-term growth focus, can be a strong approach to funding a child's education. Regular contributions through SIPs, starting early, and adjusting risk as the child grows older are key considerations. Consulting a financial advisor is recommended.  

Many young adults’ first experience with financial management is in college. Parents must understand the value of this information, but some struggle to convey it to their children, and the majority of universities do not provide courses in this area. You can teach your children money management skills that they will need throughout their lives, and the money management habits they form in college are likely to stick with them for the rest of their lives. As parents, the lessons you teach about money management will give them the confidence to manage their finances in the future, save money, and stay out of debt by putting good money management skills into practice. Your children will be better prepared for the tension-free financial future they deserve if they learn how to manage money early. Long-term money management strategies As college students, they are always short on time as well as money and that is precisely why it is the right time to start building their financial habits. Some long-term strategies you can teach your child are- 1. Teach them how to budget Creating a budget is extremely important and it is something you should teach your child before sending them off to college. Recognizing the line between wants and needs is the key to budgeting. Make sure they fully portray their spending patterns by having them list their expected monthly costs for things like books, school supplies, laundry, eating outside, meal plans, and personal care products. Don't forget to include recreational activities. They will be on the right path to the future with better money management by establishing these limitations in advance. 2. Emergency savings fund Starting an emergency savings fund is essential for anyone's long-term financial stability, whether they are students or not. An emergency fund acts as a safety net that one can rely on for those "rainy days" when they find themselves in a financial crisis. They will be able to recover thanks to their emergency money. It is up to them how much money they save each month. No matter how tiny the amount may appear at first, they must save something each month. 3. Finding cheap housing Housing is a significant and inevitable expense in college. If you are preparing your child to manage their funds and create a budget on their own, encourage them to explore the options available on campus. The most affordable option to have the entire college experience is to live on campus. When it comes to housing, living with roommates is also a great way to save money. Your child needs to interact with the students around them who are also looking for a place to live. Who knows, maybe they'll find some of their closest friends! Money Management Tips for HomeMakers Read More Try to Save Money as Much as Possible Saving money isn't just a financial practice; it's a mindset that sets the tone for responsible adulthood. Even as a young adult, adopting a disciplined saving approach can yield substantial benefits over time. Here's how you can lay the groundwork for a successful savings journey:  Set Clear Goals: The foundation of effective saving is setting specific goals. Whether it's building an emergency fund, planning for a dream vacation, or saving for a down payment on a house, having well-defined objectives provides direction and motivation.  Automate Savings: Capitalize on automation by setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your dedicated savings account. Treating saving as a non-negotiable expense encourages consistency.  Start Small, Think Big: It's not the initial amount but the consistency that matters. Even if you can only save a small percentage of your income initially, remember that small contributions compound over time to create substantial savings.  Embrace the 50-30-20 Rule: Divide your income into three categories: necessities (50%), discretionary spending (30%), and savings and debt repayment (20%). This balanced approach fosters responsible spending while prioritizing saving.  Build an emergency fund with enough money in it to cover three to six months' worth of expenses. This cushion safeguards you against unexpected financial shocks.  Start Investing in Mutual Funds Keep Track of Your Debts Effectively managing your debts is a pivotal aspect of financial stability. Proactively addressing your debt situation during your early adult years can avert future financial turmoil. Here's how you can navigate the complex terrain of debt management:  Catalog Your Debts: Start by creating a comprehensive list of all your debts, ranging from student loans and credit card balances to any outstanding loans. Note down interest rates and minimum payment requirements for each.  Prioritize High-Interest Debts: Tackle high-interest debts with unwavering focus. By paying off these obligations first, you're effectively minimizing the total interest you'll end up paying overtime.  Punctual Payments: Ensure that you meet at least the minimum payment requirement for each debt on time. Timely payments not only prevent late fees but also bolster your credit score.  Prudent Borrowing: Exercise discretion when considering new debt. Only borrow when it's necessary and within your means. Keep in mind that every debt you take on affects your future financial commitments.  Start Investing in US Market Stop Spending on Unnecessary Things Disciplining your spending habits is pivotal for maintaining financial equilibrium. Developing the ability to differentiate between essential needs and superfluous desires is a hallmark of fiscal prudence:  Create a Budget: Formulate a comprehensive budget that outlines your monthly income and expenditures. This provides clarity regarding your financial standing and empowers you to allocate funds judiciously.  Practice Delayed Gratification: Cultivate the habit of delaying purchases. This approach offers a cooling-off period that helps you evaluate whether a purchase is truly essential or merely impulsive.  Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: When making purchases, quality gives precedence. Investing in a few high-quality items that endure over time is more cost-effective than buying numerous lower-quality products.  Opt for Cash or Debit: Minimize reliance on credit cards. Opting for cash or debit cards makes you more mindful of your spending and curbs the tendency to overspend.  Guard Against Lifestyle Inflation: As your income increases, resist the urge to immediately inflate your lifestyle. Instead, continue living within or below your means, allowing you to save and invest more substantially.  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/jjXF-KC9iWI How to earn while in college? Your child will be able to cover their costs while in college and gain valuable work experience that will benefit them in the long run. They will be able to avoid future debt by making some income themselves. Students have a lot of work opportunities at universities. Your child should find out about working at the school bookstore or as a (resident assistant) RA. College students may also be eligible for additional employee benefits from several nearby businesses. Ask them to think about applying for summer jobs if work becomes a burden while studying. 1. Daily money-saving strategies You can teach your child a variety of money management techniques to help them become more frugal while they are in college. Here are a few daily financial management techniques. 2. Meal plans Ask about the college's meal plans. Teach your child to make the most of what they have by using it to the fullest. They should buy snacks they could use the next day if they have any spare cash left. 3. Student discounts A student ID card has a lot more uses than just serving as identification, including various ways your child can use it to save money. You should advise them to call ahead the next time they want to go watch a movie, get school supplies, or go for a haircut to see if the business provides any student discounts for nearby college students. They will have access to all campus facilities, including the gym, pool, library, etc., with their student ID card. 4. Cooking at home Teach them how to cook and how to utilize ingredients. Cooking their own food will help them save a lot of money that they’d be spending if they ordered or went out for meals. These are great skills they will value for life. They can also make cooking a fun activity by inviting their friends over and trying out new recipes. 5. Public transportation If your child does not live close to their college, they should take public transportation instead of driving there. They will be able to save money and avoid the stress of crowded school parking lots thanks to public transport. They will also save on the cost of car insurance, gas, and university parking passes. FAQs How do I teach my child to manage money? Start with simple concepts like saving, spending, and giving. Use clear jars for each purpose. Set an allowance, encouraging saving for goals. Involve them in budgeting decisions. Teach about needs vs. wants. As they grow, introduce bank accounts, investments, and wise spending. Be a role model for responsible money habits. What are the best money management tips? Create a budget, track spending, and prioritize saving. Pay off high-interest debt. Build an emergency fund. Invest for long-term goals. Live below your means. Avoid impulse buying. Comparison shop and look for deals. Continuously educate yourself about personal finance. Regularly review and adjust your financial plan. How do I teach my 4-year-old about money? Introduce coins and their values through play. Use a clear jar to show savings. Associate coins with small rewards. Teach basic needs vs. wants. Keep conversations simple and age-appropriate. Use stories or games to explain money concepts. Be patient, reinforce lessons, and set a positive example of smart money choices. How can a 10-year-old save money? A 10-year-old can start by setting a savings goal, like buying a toy or game. Help them create a simple budget and allocate a portion of their allowance or gifts to savings. Use a piggy bank or a savings jar to visually track progress. Encourage patience and celebrate milestones together. Conclusion The main conclusion is that although college is expensive, there are ways to lessen the financial pressure. Early financial management in college will help your child set themselves up for success in the future. Money management will make it easier for them as well as you while they’re studying in college. If they have the basic knowledge of how to handle their finances before going to college, they will be able to do it stress-free and be able to learn better with time. TALK TO AN EXPERT

All investments are associated with risks. Yet, the risk is not uniform, and it's essential to be aware of the different levels of risks linked with all types of investment instruments. This is why the first thing to consider before investing is how much of a risk appetite has – how much risk one is willing to take. Want to know the best investment options for risk-averse investors but still generate good returns? Continue reading this article to know more! What is risk averse? Risk-averse refers to an investor who chooses to preserve the capital over and above its potential to generate returns that are higher than the average. Risk can refer to many factors – volatility, currency, market, credit rating, etc. Risk-averse can also refer to a conservative investor. Low risk symbolizes stability in investments. A low-risk investment generates guaranteed reasonable returns, if not outstanding, above benchmark returns. But chances are near zero that the principal investment amount will be lost. Whereas a high-risk investment option may gain or lose money over time. Risk-averse investors are unwilling to accept market volatility. They prefer their investments to be highly liquid - readily available to be withdrawn. Such investors usually include old investors or retired individuals who depend on their savings for their daily expenses. Start Investing in Mutual Funds Is FD a good option for risk-averse investors? One should constantly adjust their returns against the current inflation rate. The current Fixed Deposit interest rates are 5-7% p.a. on average. But the current inflation rates are around 6-8% p.a. Give these figures a thought. The price you pay for your everyday goods and services is rising at 6-8%, whereas your FD investments are growing at only 5-7%. FDs do not increase the value of your money over time. In fact, you actually lose money or its purchasing power over time. Do you think FDs are the safest investment option? Banks defaulting on payments is rare but definitely possible. The Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) guarantees Rs. 5 lakhs per person per bank if the bank defaults. Let's not forget the liquidity part of this instrument. Fixed deposits can have a lock-in ranging from 3-5 years. Banks penalize the investors for withdrawing money before the lock-in is over. This penalty is in the form of a reduction of interest rate by a certain percentage. Download App and Start Saving for Child Education What are the best investment options for risk-averse investors? The market is filled with many investment options for investors with varying risk appetites. Let's look at some of the best investment options for risk-averse investors: 1. Short-term bond fund The best alternative for investors who do not want exposure to FDs or volatile instruments. Short-term bond funds – bond funds with low maturity and a high potential to offer better returns. Debt Funds with longer maturity are subjected to interest rate risk. But short-term bonds have a lower interest rate risk as their maturity period is much lower. 2. Municipal and Corporate Bonds State and local governments and companies usually raise money by issuing bonds to the public. Bonds offer lower risk than stocks. When a company is winding up, the bondholders are given first preference in the payment and settlement order. 3. Other debt funds Other debt funds include banking and PSU Funds, ultra-short duration funds, Dynamic Bonds, etc. You could always invest a lump sum in these debt-based mutual funds and opt for a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP). This would ensure that along with the returns being generated on your investments, you would also get a monthly income from these investments. This investment option is one of the best options for older people who want a monthly income. 4. Liquid funds Invest in top-rated liquid funds to avoid loss of capital with a higher degree of safety for your primary investment. Also, when the market moves up, your investment performs better and generates higher returns in line with the market. 5. Dividend growth stocks Stocks are not as safe as cash, savings, or other debt-based instruments. But they are safer than options and futures. Dividend-paying stocks are considered safer than high-growth ones as they minimize volatility, if not eliminate it. You don't depend on the value of the stock as you get a dividend as a regular income on your investment. Apart from debt-based investments, you could also apply a staggered investment approach in equity-based mutual funds for a long-time horizon. A periodically rebalanced portfolio helps you minimize your portfolio volatility and ensures efficient capture of up-market and down-market movements even with equity exposure.  Take the help of an Investment Advisor who will guide you through goal-based planning and help you choose the investments that are most suitable to your goals and objectives and your risk appetite. FAQsWhat type of investments do risk-averse investors prefer?  Risk-averse investors typically prefer conservative investments with lower volatility and more predictable returns. These may include government bonds, high-quality corporate bonds, certificates of deposit (CDs), and stable dividend-paying stocks. These options aim to preserve capital while providing modest growth, aligning with the risk tolerance of such investors.   What are 3 high-risk investments?  Three high-risk investments include investing in individual stocks of volatile and speculative companies, trading in cryptocurrencies known for their price volatility, and investing in startups or early-stage ventures that have higher failure rates. These investments offer the potential for significant returns but also carry a substantial risk of loss.   Which investment is the riskiest for investors?  Investing in highly speculative and unproven assets like cryptocurrencies, especially in lesser-known or new coins, can be among the riskiest options for investors. The volatile nature of these assets can lead to substantial financial losses due to sudden price fluctuations and lack of regulation.   Which investment has the highest return without risk?  No investment offers guaranteed high returns without any risk. Investments with potentially higher returns often come with varying degrees of risk. While some low-risk options like government bonds or savings accounts provide stability, they usually offer lower returns. Diversification and a clear understanding of risk are important for any investment strategy.  TALK TO AN EXPERT

United States is known for its top-notch universities, improved academic facilities, easy options for paying tuition to study in the USA, and incredible lifestyle. While tuition fees and accommodation are expenses most parents save for, there are many hidden costs of sending your child to the USA that you may have overlooked. Let’s look at how much you need to save to send your child to the USA! 6 Hidden costs of sending your child to the USA From visa fees to health insurance to flights, there are a lot of costs that parents do not consider while saving and investing in their child’s education. Let’s look at some hidden costs of sending your child to the USA: 1. College application fee A non-refundable application fee must be paid by students when submitting their application forms. The cost will vary depending on the university. However, the majority of application fees are in the INR 5,000 – INR 8,000 range. Cost of Studying LAW in the USA Read More 2. Entrance exams Depending on the degree studied, students needed to take and pass entrance exams. ExaminationsExam FeesMCAT₹25,000NEET₹1,600IELTS₹15,500TOEFL₹14,200GRE₹17,000GMAT₹20,000SAT₹7,700 3. Fees for SEVIS The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a database that houses all data on international students, including their main reasons for visiting the United States. They will share the SEVIS number on the I-20 with your child once they’ve been admitted to their ideal university. Before submitting the paperwork for a visa application, students need to pay the SEVIS cost, which is around ₹28,000. Apply for Education Loans to Study Abroad 4. Visa Application Fees It is typical for students to apply for an F1 visa alone. Students who enroll in undergraduate, graduate, or study courses with more than 18 hours of study time each week should take note of this. Students have to pay a visa application fee of between ₹10,000 and 15,000. 5. Health Insurance One of the most crucial things to think about when estimating the study costs in the USA is health insurance. It is more economical for your child to receive medical care in the nation if they have health insurance. In the USA, getting health insurance costs between ₹40,000 and ₹80,000 a year. 6. Flight tickets The cost of the airfare ranges from ₹30,000 to 1,05,000 one-way to the US. This amount may vary depending on the type of journey taken, the airline chosen, the dates of booking, the location from which you're departing, the location in the United States where your child will be landing, etc. Invest via Mutual Funds in Global Companies Cost of studying in the USA One of the most significant and initial costs of studying in the united states is the tuition fees. Our college cost calculator estimates the average tuition for an undergraduate program in the USA to be between ₹1.6 to 1.9 crore. The cost of attending an American university varies depending on several variables, including the course, chosen, the kind of degree program, the type of university, etc. The USA offers a variety of scholarship alternatives to international students who are struggling financially. Students can apply for the best scholarship based on the criteria. Most regular costs like tuition, living expenses, etc. Are covered by these scholarships. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/AokbOsD5nC8 Living costs for students in the USA The price of living in the US is the next element that affects how much it will cost Indian students to study there. The cost of living in the USA typically ranges from 70 lacks to 1 crore. The place your child chooses to reside in the United States, the type of accommodation, the mode of transportation they use to get around, the restaurants they frequent, and most significantly, the lifestyle they lead, all affect the cost of living. Yearly living expenses include paying for apartment housing including utilities (₹13 - 14 lakhs), food (₹5 - 6 lakhs), dormitory housing (₹6 - 9.5 lakhs), food for dormitory (₹1.6 - 2 lakhs), books and supplies (₹65,000 - 75,000), and miscellaneous expenses (₹5 - 6 lakhs). Check out our college cost calculator to find out the cost of studying in the USA! It becomes simple to enjoy the academic and cultural life in America if your child can control the tuition they pay while studying there. The USA has consistently been ranked among the top places for studying abroad, and now that you know how much it would cost you to send your child to college there, it will be simpler for you to arrange their expenses. TALK TO OUR EXPERTS FAQs What is the cost of college applications for US universities? However, the majority of application fees are in the INR 5,000 – INR 8,000 range. Some universities do not charge application fees whereas some are willing to refund the application fee if you meet their criteria. What is considered a hidden cost or charge of studying abroad? Hidden charges or implicit charges are those that parents or students have to pay for once they start the application process. These costs are not accounted for as the actual cost of attendance and are costs or expenses that one has to bear in order to start the process. For instance, application fees, test exam fees, visa fees, health insurance, travel insurance, and even fights. What are some hidden charges for sending your child to the USA? Here are some hidden costs of sending your child to the USA for higher education: College application fee Entrance exams Fees for SEVIS Visa Application Fees Health Insurance Flight tickets

Many international students consider the United Kingdom to be their ideal study destination because of the country's outstanding academic reputation and dynamic student community. There is no question about the quality of education, but the cost of studying in the UK for Indian students is one of the most concerning facts. Let's face it, studying in the UK is costly. Pound to rupee ratio, international tuition fees, and the general cost of living are just some reasons for this expense. But beyond the obvious expenses, there are some hidden costs of sending your child to the UK that you may not have considered. 5 hidden Costs of Sending Your Child to the UK There are some hidden costs of sending your child to the UK that may stretch your budget. These costs are hidden because parents usually do not consider them when planning their child’s foreign education until it's too late. 1. Student Visa fees All students need to apply for a student visa to go to the UK. It's a hidden cost of expense because it rears its ugly head after you have finished your child’s application process and can be an added expense to the overall budget. Type of VISAApplication FeeShort-term study student visa₹8,000 for 6 months and ₹15,000 for 11 monthsTier 4 student visa (General)₹28,500Tier 4 student visa (Child)₹28,500Disclaimer: This is the current fee and is subject to change. 2. Immigration health surcharge Through the National Health Service, the UK is renowned for having one of the top healthcare systems in the world (NHS). Your child must pay the visa fee and an additional premium for health insurance as an international student. It will cost them between ₹38,000 and 40,000 a year to obtain entry to the NHS. At NHS health centers, students will have access to free medical care as well as discounted dental care. 3. Entrance exams Some universities mandate language tests for international students, while others do not. Popular standardized examinations that are provided to potential international students for them to study in the UK include: ExaminationExam FeesGRE₹15,912GMAT₹18,500IELTS UKVI₹15,500TOEFL₹14,200Disclaimer: This is the current fee and is subject to change. 4. University application fee While master's or Ph.D. Candidates must apply directly through the website of their chosen university, undergraduate candidates must use the UCAS application website. To apply to several universities in the UK, you need to spend between $1,500 and $7,500. Please be aware that depending on the number of programs and universities your child applies to, the application fee may increase. 5. Flight tickets You must book your child’s flight tickets right after the visa allocation. The cost of flight tickets can change according to the city, destination, and airline. For students traveling from India, one-way airfares can cost around ₹60,000 - 1,00,000. Why a Parent should consider the UK for child education? Read More Tuition fees for international students in the UK The majority of international students living expenses in the UK are the cost of their tuition. It may differ substantially depending on the university, the region, and the program they select. Our college cost calculator estimates the average tuition for an undergraduate program in the UK to be between 60 lakh and 1 crore. Fee Structure of the UK University Read More Living expenses in the UK Another significant component of the overall cost of studying in the UK is living expenses. For the duration of a course, the average cost of living in the UK is between 40 and 50 lakhs. Similar to tuition costs for UK universities, living costs might change based on your child's, lifestyle, where they choose to reside, etc. For instance, rent is more expensive in cities like London or brighter than it is in Aberdeen or Manchester. Invest in Mutual Funds Other Living Costs in the UK Aside from accommodation, there are other significant living expenses to consider. Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) can cost around £100-£150 per month. Food costs vary depending on personal choices and habits, but a rough estimate is around £200-£300 per month. Transportation expenses include the London Underground or buses, which can cost approximately £100-£150 per month. However, these costs can be lower in other cities with more affordable public transportation options.  Monthly living expenses in the UK for average Indian students Accommodation₹40,000 - 60,000Food₹8,000 - 16,000Transportation₹2,000 - 3,500Household bills₹3,000 - 4,000Entertainment₹3,000 - 5,000Miscellaneous Expenses₹15,000 - 20,000Total₹70,000 - 1,10,000 UK Scholarships for International Students:  Recognizing the financial burden on international students, many UK universities offer scholarships and financial aid. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and, in some cases, also provide a stipend for living expenses. Some well-known scholarships for international students in the UK include the Chevening Scholarship, the Commonwealth Scholarship, and university-specific scholarships like the Rhodes Scholarships at the University of Oxford and the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Eligibility criteria and application processes for these scholarships vary, but they provide valuable opportunities to make studying in the UK more affordable.  Impact of Brexit: Brexit, the UK's decision to exit the European Union (EU), has had several potential impacts on various aspects of life in the UK, including education and living costs.  Tuition Fees: EU students used to be treated as domestic students, paying the same tuition fees as UK citizens. However, after Brexit, most EU students are now classified as international students, leading to higher tuition fees. This change could potentially affect the affordability of studying in the UK for EU students.  Scholarships and Funding: Some scholarships and funding opportunities previously available to EU students might no longer be accessible. However, the UK government and universities have introduced new scholarships and funding options specifically for international students, helping to mitigate this impact.  Living Costs: Brexit's impact on living costs is more indirect. Changes in the economy and exchange rates could influence the overall cost of living for international students. For instance, fluctuations in the value of the British pound might affect the purchasing power of students' home currencies.  Research and Collaboration: Brexit has raised concerns about the UK's participation in EU research programs and collaborations. Previously, UK universities and researchers had access to EU research grants and partnerships, which could have contributed to funding opportunities and lowered costs. While the UK government has expressed intentions to establish its own research initiatives, the full extent of these programs' impact remains to be seen.  Cultural Diversity: The UK's appeal as a diverse and welcoming destination for international students might be affected by changes in immigration policies and the overall atmosphere following Brexit. This could indirectly influence the attractiveness of studying in the UK.  While Brexit has brought changes that could potentially impact the cost of studying and living in the UK for international students, it's important to note that the UK remains committed to hosting international students and maintaining its reputation for quality education. The introduction of new scholarships and funding options aims to ease the financial burden, and universities continue to strive to create an enriching environment for students from around the world. As the situation continues to evolve, it's recommended that prospective international students stay updated with the latest information and carefully assess the financial aspects before making decisions about studying in the UK.  There are many options to pay for a UK university, including selecting scholarships, financial aid, student loans, and other options. If you want to send your child abroad for undergraduate then it's time to consult financial experts to discover new-age savings to beat the demon of rising costs! This might make it much easier for you to manage your child's tuition costs. An education fund, scholarships, and part-time jobs can help cover the growing cost of studying in the UK. Start saving if your child is planning to fly to the UK for their undergraduate before it's too late! TALK TO AN EXPERT

Incorporated in the midst of the Global Financial Crisis, Quantum Mutual Fund has been in existence for approximately two decades now. The AMC offers a variety of mutual fund schemes, including equity funds, debt funds, and hybrid funds. Quantum Mutual Fund is known for its focus on active management and its commitment to providing investors with high-quality investment products. Quantum India ESG Fund Investment Objective The investment objective of the scheme is to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing in shares of companies that meet Quantum’s Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.  Investment Process  The Quantum India ESG Equity Fund invests in companies that are focused on conserving the environment, positively impacting communities that they operate in, and conducting business ethically.  These sustainable businesses are not only environmentally and socially responsible but also make great sense as investments as you look to build wealth over the long term.  The fund invests after comprehensive research on Environmental, Social, and Governance or ESG factors following the risk and liquidity controls on investing.    Portfolio Composition The portfolio is biased towards large-cap stocks, with 78% of the funds allocated to large-cap stocks, the remaining 19% and 3% to mid-cap and small-cap stocks respectively. Note: Data as of 31st July 2023. Source: Quantum Mutual Fund, Value Research Top 5 Holdings for Quantum India ESG Equity Fund Name Weightage % HDFC Bank Limited 8.21 TVS Motor Company Limited 4.35 Tata Communications Ltd 4.13 Tata Consultancy Services Ltd 3.95 The Indian Hotels Company Ltd 3.59 Note: Data as of 31st July 2023. Source: Quantum Mutual Fund Performance for Quantum India ESG Equity Fund   NIFTY100 ESG TRI S&P BSE Sensex TRI Period Scheme (₹) Benchmark Additional Benchmark Since Inception  17.24%  15.81%  15.65%  3 Years  22.52%  20.82%  22.38%  1 Year 15.69%  13.53%  20.70%  Note: Returns in % as of 31st, July 2023. Source: Quantum Mutual Fund  Since its inception, the fund has generated a CAGR (Compounded Annual Growth Rate) of 17.24%. Invest in Fund Fund Manager  The scheme is co-managed by Mr. Chirag Mehta & Ms. Sneha Joshi.  Mr. Chirag Mehta has more than 19 years of experience and has been managing this fund since July 2019.  Ms. Sneha Joshi has more than 9 years of experience and has been managing this fund since July 2019.  Who Should Invest in Quantum India ESG Equity Fund?  The fund is suitable for investors who are seeking.   Long-term capital appreciation.  An investment opportunity that invests in shares of companies that meet Quantum's Environment, Social, Governance (ESG) criteria.  Why Invest in this Fund? The fund offers a solution for investing in businesses where sustainable practices drive long-term performance.  It invests after comprehensive research on Environmental, Social, and Governance or ESG factors.  It provides exposure to good quality sustainable companies with low volatility and downside risk.  It is a well-diversified portfolio that follows a disciplined investment process.  It follows risk and liquidity controls on investing.  Time Horizon One should look at investing for at least five years or even more.  Investment through Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help in tackling the volatility of the broader equity market.  Conclusion Quantum India ESG Equity Fund is an open-ended fund that allows investors to invest in equities following the ESG theme. The fund has outperformed its benchmark consistently. However, the fund was launched approximately 3 years ago, so it will be important to monitor how the fund performs in the upcoming future. Hence, investors who believe in the ESG theme of investing can consider this fund with a long-term time horizon. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice. All information in this blog is for educational purposes only. 

The education experience that the United Kingdom provides foreign nationals is truly remarkable. From superior education institutions to unmatchable facilities blended with experimental teaching frameworks, the UK helps students unlock their fullest potential. Going to study in another country entails more than just gaining knowledge. This also allows students to gain a global perspective, which greatly influences them as individuals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4gmR-U_vHA&pp=ygUHZWR1ZnVuZA%3D%3D Reasons why, the United Kingdom is one of the most popular locations for higher education 1. Reputable universities are known worldwide International acclaim is accorded to the UK's academic program and elite universities. With connections through the United Kingdom, one can access prestigious academic institutions with histories that date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Undoubtedly, degrees from such universities are highly regarded and appreciated. As a result, if your child's profile includes a degree from a UK university, be assured that they shall increase competition in the professional world. Furthermore, such institutions motivate learners to advance their careers, showcase their talents, and pursue their dreams. Start Saving with EduFund 2. Universities promote utility-based knowledge The United Kingdom provides students with opportunities to conduct coursework as per their interests. Students will have greater research viable alternatives as a result of this.  Constructive content-focused methods and participative-based understanding is preferred over textbook education in the United Kingdom. This signifies that learners can fine-tune their ability to analyze and think critically in their selected discipline of study.  In addition, the Quality Assurance Agency, a reputable UK organization, regularly assesses the academic standards at all colleges and universities. The body uses subject assessments and quality audits to assess effectiveness. Cost of Studying LAW in the UK Read More 3. The pool of diverse culture Britain is a diverse nation that has long been popular for international students seeking higher education. Britain is the second most sought-after country among international students seeking an education abroad.  As a natural outcome, UK universities are bustling with students from various cultures. Students can socialize in a multicultural environment and enjoy a welcoming campus environment. As a student, meeting and learning about people from all over the globe is possible. source: Pexels 4. Impressive employment opportunities During the academic year, overseas students may work up to 20 hours per week. A few universities perhaps assist students in obtaining internships as a component of their coursework. Students will have a comparative advantage once they graduate. Students gain confidence about excellent job opportunities upon completing their graduate or postgraduate studies. Besides this, the British government has adopted a new post-study working visa that allows international graduates to stay and work in the UK for an additional two years. This extends to students who graduated in the summer of 2021. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyP3Li4ofNg 5. Financial privileges Most students pick the UK as their higher education destination due to the government's many financial benefits. The foremost and most significant reason is that students can finish a degree program in the UK sooner than anywhere else in the country.  An undergraduate course lasts four years in several countries around the world. It would be beneficial if students completed their postgraduate degree in two to three years. In the UK, students can accomplish their undergraduate degree in three years and their postgraduate qualification in one year unless individuals pursue medicine or research. International students studying in the UK can also apply for financial assistance like scholarship opportunities, student grants, and bursaries. International students who intend to attend British universities are entitled to free medical treatment through the National Health Service. Uk, 2020/21 - Higher education student statistics Enrolment in first-year higher education by level of study - 2011/12 to 2020/21 academic years. First-year degrees have recently become a popular type of higher education, increasing by 8% between 2019/20 and 2020/21. The number of first-year postgraduates taught increased by 16% over the previous academic year. First-year student enrolment in postgraduate research courses has returned to 2017/18 levels, following a 6% increase since 2019/20 6. The national student survey report Former students who studied in different universities in the UK share their experiences learning in their respective colleges with the NSS. This is a UK-wide survey, and many students participate in it. The most recent National Student Survey published in 2020 indicates that  84 % of respondents were satisfied with their course's teaching, and  86 % were satisfied with their learning resources. 83 % were pleased with their educational opportunities. Conclusion British universities ensure consistent academic standards, with industry professionals on various academic topic areas. These aspects keep the universities higher in the global ranking. With revolutionary instructional approaches, the higher education system in the UK is widely acknowledged as the preferred standard for university education. There were 2.38 million students enrolled in educational institutions in the UK in 2018-19. Start saving early to consider the UK for your child's higher education Talk To An Expert FAQs Why did you choose the UK for higher education? The UK offers world-renowned universities, diverse academic programs, and rich cultural experience. Its education system emphasizes research, critical thinking, and practical skills. With a global network, top-notch faculty, and vibrant student life, studying in the UK can provide an excellent foundation for future success. Why UK is better than India for higher studies? The UK offers a broader range of internationally recognized universities, advanced research facilities, and diverse study options compared to India. With a focus on experiential learning and global exposure, studying in the UK can offer a competitive edge in terms of quality education and career prospects. What are the benefits of being a student in the UK? Being a student in the UK offers access to top-tier education, global networking opportunities, cultural diversity, and a chance to explore historic landmarks. It fosters personal growth, academic excellence, and memorable experiences. What are the benefits of choosing to study in the UK? Studying in the UK offers access to world-class universities, diverse academic programs, renowned faculty, research opportunities, and a multicultural environment. It provides a chance to enhance career prospects, gain international exposure, and develop valuable skills, all within a rich historical and cultural backdrop.

Managing finances as a single parent could be challenging in today's changing environment if not appropriately planned. Things could get out of control if not managed adequately. The child/children could be deprived of basic needs like education, clothing, etc. How single parents can plan finances? 1. Get rid of debt The first step is to get rid of debt. If you have any, try to pay off all the debt to reduce liability. And there is no stress about paying the EMIs. Education planning advice for new parents Read More 2. Emergency corpus The next step is creating an emergency corpus for yourself and your child to remain protected in uncertain events like job loss. The ideal way of making an emergency corpus is to put aside 6 months of your expenses. For example: if you have monthly expenses of Rs. 30,000, then you should put Rs.1,80,000 in a liquid fund or fixed deposit. 3. Life Insurance If something wrong happens to you, how or who will care for your child's expenses? For such a situation, consider having life insurance, preferably Term insurance. Calculating the amount of life insurance can be calculated in many ways. One could be 25 times your CTC. Suppose you have a CTC of 6 Lacs. The ideal life insurance cover you should consider is 1.5 crore. How Single Women can Start Investment Journey? Read More 4. Medical insurance Anyone can face health issues at any point in time. So, it is better to be well prepared by buying medical insurance. 5. Make a budget After having all these things in place, make a monthly budget. Calculate all your inflows and outflows, and categorize them into different categories Start SIP for child education savings 6. Define short-term & long-term goals Now, you need to prioritize your goals based on their importance and the time left to achieve them. Suppose you have to buy a house and a car and pay your child higher education fees. Now, you need to define which one is a short-term goal or which one is a long-term goal. Buying a house or car can come under long-term goals, but paying for your child's education could be short-term or long-term, but it needs to be prioritized at the top of your goals. Define the goals and prioritize them so that you achieve all your goal in time.  7. Make a financial plan Create a financial plan to achieve your goals which will define the time to achieve it, your risk appetite, and how much amount will be required to achieve that goal. Draw your investment strategy to help you achieve your goals effectively and efficiently. Conclusion When you are the only person to take care of your child, you should try to plan everything well in advance to provide a quality of living for your child. Having a sound financial plan will also help you ease your financial journey during the downturn. Talk To an Expert FAQs What are some financial tips for single parents? Here are some financial tips that all single parents must follow: Get rid of debt Emergency corpus Life Insurance Medical insurance Make a budget Define short-term & long-term goals Make a financial plan How important is it to save for parents? Education inflation is the reason why every parent needs to save for their child’s future! The cost of tuition is increasing every year. The education inflation rate is 11-12 percent; double of CPI which is at 6%. This means that the costs of education are growing faster than consumer price inflation as well. Fees for prominent courses and colleges are likely to reach 1 crore in the next 15 years. Parents need to be prepared for hefty fees in the future. Why should parents save money?   Financial security for emergencies and unexpected expenses.  Funding their child’s education and future endeavors.  Building wealth and assets for retirement.  Preparing for major life events like buying a house or starting a business.  Leaving a financial legacy for their family. 

Being a parent in the 21st century is challenging. There are plenty of financial goals that seem impossible because the world is much more expensive. Raising a child requires disciplined budgeting, education planning, and financial independence. It's not to say the previous generation had it easy – inflation, recession, capitalism – they faced it all. Yet some new challenges can make meeting financial goals for Millennials and Gen Z parents trickier.    The rise in education inflation and consequent pricing is making education harder to afford for millions of new-age parents. The pandemic setback, global crisis, raised prices, and unemployment has made raising children in the technologically-proficient world much more competitive.    Here are some financial goals that every millennial and Gen Z parent should adopt to secure their child's future in this changing economy: Create Goals for Child Education Tips for achieving financial goals! 1. Create an education fund   Borrowing money from relatives, taking out a loan on your house, or worse, stopping your child from pursuing the dream they want are some inevitable financial decisions you may have to take - if you don't start an education fund for your child. Investing Rs. 1000 every month for the next 18 years (assuming returns of 12%) can give you nearly Rs. 6,00,000 - Rs. 7,00,000!    Disciplined education planning can help you pay for your child's tuition, living expenses, shifting expenses, books, laptops, etc. You can do this easily from home - calculate the future cost of college through the College Cost Calculator - fill out your child's details to get an accurate estimate of what tuition fees and living expenses can cost you. Once you know the exact amount, you can start saving up with different options designed to help you achieve your goal faster on the EduFund App.    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4gmR-U_vHA&pp=ygUHZWR1ZnVuZA%3D%3D 2. Get a health insurance   Another financial goal parents should aim toward is getting health insurance coverage for their children. Good health insurance can help you cover your child's medical bills and expenses without burning a hole in your pocket. The idea that only the sick need health insurance is a huge financial mistake you can avoid. From minor injuries to seasonal diseases and hospital bills, insurance can help you cover the bills partially or entirely, depending upon the coverage you opt for!    3. Try the cookie jar approach   Many parents forego their retirement savings for their college. You can avoid this by using the cookie jar approach to investing. Define specific long-term goals you want to save towards, like a child's college, retirement fund, travel fund, or house fund, and allocate funds to every category based on when you wish to complete this goal. By defining your goals and allocating appropriate funds to achieve the goals in the set time frame – the chances of hitting your goals increase!    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYlrsx9_yog&pp=ygUHZWR1ZnVuZA%3D%3D 4. Start an emergency fund The tragedy is a part of life; unfortunately, we can only prepare for it to soften its blow. Creating an emergency fund does precisely that. It is a cushion to fall back on when an emergency like job loss, health crisis, or sudden financial expense. An emergency fund should have enough money to help you sustain yourself and your family for a couple of months. For instance, if your monthly expense is Rs. 20,000, you must have Rs. 1,20,000 in your savings account to fall back on.    This emergency fund is a financial goal for all millennials and Gen Z parents to embrace. This fund can help you prioritize your goals, savings, and investments.    Start Investing in Mutual Funds 5. Budgeting is king Another financial goal that most parents overlook is budgeting. We all want to give our newborns everything possible – the best bed, the latest gadgets, toys, brilliant daycare, schooling, etc. Doing so makes it easy to go overboard and spend more than you want. Budgeting can help you eliminate this oversight – by allocating a specific budget to different needs; you ensure that you can meet all of them and avoid stretching your wallet.    These financial goals for millennials and Gen-Z parents can be a short survival guide. With the cost of education rising yearly, basic education needs and schooling are likely to be affected. The only solution is to start saving early and systematically to provide a secure and safe learning experience for your child from school to college! Talk to an Expert FAQs How can I ensure I can afford my child's education, given the rising costs? It’s crucial to start an education fund to secure your child’s education. By investing Rs. 1000 per month for the next 18 years with an assumed return of 12%, you could accumulate nearly Rs. 6,00,000- Rs 7,00,000. \ This disciplined planning can help cover tuition, living expenses, shifting costs, books, laptops, and more. Use tools like the College Cost Calculator on the EduFund App to accurately estimate and achieve your education savings goal. What's the importance of having an emergency fund? An emergency fund is crucial to cushion financial setbacks such as job loss, health crises, or unexpected expenses. Aim to have enough money to cover your family's expenses for a few months. For instance, if your monthly expenses are Rs. 20,000, having Rs. 1,20,000 in your savings account, provides a safety net. This fund ensures you're prepared for unforeseen situations while prioritizing your goals, savings, and investments. How can I balance saving for my child's college and my retirement? You can avoid sacrificing your retirement savings by using the "cookie jar" approach to investing. Set clear, long-term goals for different needs like college, retirement, travel, and more. Allocate funds to each category depending on your timeline. This strategic approach helps you allocate resources efficiently and increases the likelihood of achieving your financial goals. Why should I consider health insurance for my child? Health insurance for your child is essential to cover medical bills and expenses. Even minor injuries and seasonal diseases can lead to unexpected costs. Health insurance ensures you're financially prepared to handle these situations without straining your budget. Remember, insurance coverage varies, so choose a plan that aligns with your needs and budget.

Paying for college is one of the biggest financial concerns across the globe. With rising education inflation in India, it is imperative to save early.   Saving early for your child has its own set of perks – it gives you the chance to send your child to the best university as well as the financial freedom to choose their own path. Creating an education fund for your child not only secures your future but also theirs! It reduces the chances of student debt in their life and gives them a chance to focus on career planning.   Advantages to saving for your child's college. 1. No stress about taking an Education loan   When you plan to save early, there is no need to apply for an education loan. Moreover, you can plan your investments based on preferences. Usually, an education loan is a viable option to get a dream job.   But it can be stressful at the time of repayment for your child. Hence, saving early is the key to allowing your child to pursue their dream degree. And when you plan properly for your child’s education, they find it easy to perform.   This is because there will be no stress factors involved to repay the loan. When you save in a planned manner, you are ensuring the financial security of your child. You will be utilizing your savings to fund your child’s education.   While an education loan is a savior for most parents, it should not be your first preference. In simple words, you or your child will have to spend over five to six years of their initial career to repay the loan.   This means your child may get late in planning for their financial goals. Furthermore, education loans come with higher interest rates. By planning and saving wisely for your child’s education today, the need to apply for a high-interest education loan reduces!   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0MRtCeA2RU Source: Youtube 2. Allows your child to pursue a multitude of career options There are so many career options available that each one seems more lucrative than the other. In other words, your kids may want to explore more than one career option. For instance, if your child is interested in Computer Science, they may also enroll in certain types of certification courses.   With easily accessible funds, you will be able to provide the desired flexibility to your kids. By leveraging savings, you will be able to comply with the child’s educational demands. Your child will be able to develop dynamic career goals by enrolling in various types of educational courses.  How to ensure a child goes to the right college? Read More 3. Send your child to a foreign university   In the absence of the burden of an education loan, you’ll be able to send your child to a foreign country so that they can pursue higher studies. There is no denying that sending our children to foreign universities can be pretty expensive.   You have to apply for a huge loan amount to fund your child’s education in foreign universities. Apart from this, there are expenses like visa costs, living expenses, accommodation fees, flight costs, and above all, the currency difference that can hurt your pockets and create money churn. But with proper savings and timely investments in mutual funds and ETFs in a planned manner, you can send your child to study in their country of choice.   5 Ways to Support the child during the college application Read More 4. Chance to build your own Retirement fund  The best way to develop your own retirement fund is to save early. By saving early, you can not only fund your child’s higher education but also build your retirement plan. There is no denying that building a retirement plan has several advantages. Many Indian families and parents fail to start a retirement fund for themselves because of a lack of planning, growing expenses, and a child’s education needs. By disciplining yourself from the start and prioritizing long-term needs, you can break this norm.  5. Helps in keeping up with your Kid’s rising aspirations   With each passing day, kids are becoming more ambitious. Nowadays, teens are more aware of what to do in their life than in earlier times. In simple words, they have clarity of their objectives. Furthermore, there is peer pressure on your child. They tend to work hard to show their abilities.   The best way to plan for your child’s education is to invest in mutual funds. Mutual funds are a little riskier than other financial instruments. Mutual fund schemes allow you to invest your money systematically.   The perks of saving a child’s college are endless! From financing their dream to your Europe trip, financial planning can do wonders.   FAQs What are the advantages of saving money for students?   Financial security during emergencies.  Ability to afford educational materials and resources.  Reduced reliance on loans and debts.  Opportunity to invest and grow wealth.  Preparation for future financial responsibilities.  Enhanced money management skills.  Why should parents save money?   Financial security for emergencies and unexpected expenses.  Funding their child's education and future endeavors.  Building wealth and assets for retirement.  Preparing for major life events like buying a house or starting a business.  Leaving a financial legacy for their family.  What is the best college fund for a child?  The best college fund for a child depends on factors like risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals.  Consulting a financial advisor can help identify the most suitable option.  Why save for your child's future? Education inflation is the reason why every parent needs to save for their child's future! The costs of tuition is increasing every year. Education inflation rate is 11-12 per cent; double of CPI which is at 6%. This means that costs of education are growing faster than consumer price inflation as well. Fees for prominent courses and colleges are likely to reach 1 crore in the next 15 years. Parents need to be prepared for hefty fees in the future. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Incorporated in the midst of the Global Financial Crisis, Quantum Mutual Fund has been in existence for approximately two decades now. The AMC offers a variety of mutual fund schemes, including equity funds, debt funds, and hybrid funds. Quantum Mutual Fund is known for its focus on active management and its commitment to providing investors with high-quality investment products.  In this blog, we will explore its flagship product – Quantum Long Term Equity Value Fund. Quantum Long-Term Equity Value Fund Investment Objective The primary investment objective of the scheme is to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in shares of companies that will typically be included in the S&P BSE 200 Index and are in a position to benefit from the anticipated growth and development of the Indian economy and its markets.  Investment Process  The scheme follows a bottom-up approach for stock selection with disciplined research and investment process.  The scheme follows the thought process of investing in high-conviction stocks with long-term time horizons and hence has a lower portfolio turnover ratio.    Portfolio Composition The portfolio is biased towards large-cap stocks, with 86.49% of the funds allocated to large-cap stocks and the remaining 13.51% to mid-cap stocks. Significant sectoral exposure is to Financials, which accounts for more than one-third of the portfolio. The top five sectors hold more than 82% of the portfolio.  Data as of 31st July 2023Source: Value Research  Top 5 Holdings for Quantum Long-Term Equity Value Fund Name Weightage % HDFC Bank Limited 9.62 ICICI Bank Limited 6.80 Infosys Limited 4.78 State Bank of India Limited 4.73 Eicher Motors Limited 4.34 Note: Data as of 31st July 2023. Source: Value Research  Performance for Quantum Long-Term Equity Value Fund Particulars 1 Year 3 Year 5 Year 7 Year 10 Years Quantum Long Term Equity Value Fund 16.78 23.68 11.13 10.96 14.60 S&P BSE 100 TRI 13.08 22.20 12.76 13.94 15.21 Equity: Value Oriented 22.04 28.41 14.25 14.68 19.06 Note: Returns in % as of 10th August 2023. Source: Value Research  Since its inception, the fund has generated a CAGR (Compounded Annual Growth Rate) of 13.56%. Talk to an expert Fund Manager The scheme is co-managed by Mr. George Thomas & Mr. Christy Mathai.  Mr. George Thomas has more than six years of experience and has been managing this fund with effect from 01st April 2022.  Mr. Christy Mathai has approximately seven years of experience and has been managing this fund with effect from 23rd November 2022.  Who Should Invest in Quantum Long-Term Equity Value Fund?  The fund is suitable for investors who are seeking   Long-term capital appreciation.  An investment opportunity that invests primarily in equity and equity-related securities of companies in the S&P BSE 200 index.  Why Invest in this Fund? The fund uses the bottom-up approach for stock selection to minimize risk.  It follows disciplined research and investment process.  It has a low portfolio turnover.  It holds cash when stocks are overvalued and does not expose itself to derivatives.  It has one of the lowest expense ratios in the industry.  Time Horizon One should look at investing for at least five years or even more.  Investment through Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help in tackling the volatility of the broader equity market.  Conclusion: The Quantum Long-Term Equity Value Fund is an open-ended fund that allows investors to invest in undervalued equities. Although it has underperformed its benchmark over the long term, the fund has shown outperformance in the recent past. Thus, it will be important to monitor how the fund performs in the upcoming future. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice. All information in this blog is for educational purposes only.

If you are taking an education loan then you have probably heard the term “co-applicant”. But who is a co-applicant? What are the eligibility criteria for a co-applicant? Why do you need a co-applicant for your education loan? Let’s find out!   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJ4qgFj46Uw Importance of an Education Loan Imagine you just got into your dream university in Canada for a master's degree. All your hard work has finally paid off and you are ready to get your journey started. A part of your degree is already covered by scholarships and your hard-earned savings but you are still short on money. In such emergencies, an education loan can be a savior. Education is the security blanket that helps you live your dreams. It can sponsor your entire education or a part of it. Opting for an education loan offers numerous advantages to students pursuing higher education. One of the primary benefits is the ability to fund your education independently. With an education loan, you don’t have to dig into your family savings or exhaust all your savings on your degree.  Furthermore, responsibly repaying the loan helps students build a strong credit score and discipline. Another benefit of education loans often comes with flexible repayment options wherein they can start repaying their loan allowing students to manage the loan efficiently even during their studies. What is the role of co-applicants in education loans? A co-applicant, also known as a co-signer, is a vital component in the education loan application process. This individual co-signs the loan agreement alongside the primary loan applicant (the student) and shares equal responsibility for repayment. The presence of a co-applicant provides a safety net for the lender, ensuring that the loan is repaid even in unforeseen circumstances when the primary applicant may face financial difficulties. Consult an Expert Advisor Who can be a co-applicant? Financial institutions have specific eligibility criteria for co-applicants in education loan applications. Typically, a co-applicant can be a parent, legal guardian, sibling, or any blood relative of the primary applicant. It is essential for the co-applicant to possess an Indian bank account capable of signing cheques. Apart from these basic criteria, lenders consider other factors to assess the co-applicant's financial stability: CIBIL Score: The CIBIL score of a co-applicant plays a significant role in loan approval. Ranging from 300 to 850, a higher score improves the chances of securing the loan. A good credit score indicates strong creditworthiness, ensuring greater reliability in repaying the loan. Income Tax Returns (ITR) Document: Lenders carefully scrutinize the co-applicants' ITR document, which provides essential financial information. This document enables lenders to evaluate the co-applicant's financial health and repayment capacity. Income Proof: For salaried individuals, providing salary slips for the last 6-8 months is a mandatory requirement. Self-employed co-applicants need to submit various documents, including GST registration proof and financial statements of their business, to demonstrate their income stability. Income Amount: The financial institution evaluates the co-applicant's annual income to determine their eligibility for the education loan. Different lenders may have varying minimum income requirements. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EAyvncisU4 FAQs Who is a co-applicant? A co-applicant can be a parent, legal guardian, sibling, or any blood relative of the primary applicant. Is it good to have a co-applicant? Yes, it is good to have a co-applicant. A financially strong co-applicant can increase the chances of education loan approval. Can a co-applicant take another loan? Yes, a co-applicant can apply for other personal, car, or home loans. Can you apply for an education loan without a co-applicant? Some banks have a mandatory clause wherein a co-applicant is essential for your education loan application while some banks are more flexible.