EduFund Blogs

Investing in the financial markets can be a thrilling journey, filled with both triumphs and setbacks. To navigate this landscape with confidence, it is crucial for investors to understand the importance of portfolio diversification. By expanding their investment horizons and embracing a diversified portfolio, investors can mitigate risks and pursue attractive returns. Let's explore the age-old question - “How to diversify your portfolio? Embracing Diversification: The Foundation of Financial Resilience Diversifying Across Asset Classes: Spread your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, FDs, cash, and commodities. By allocating your funds across a variety of investments, you can reduce the impact of market fluctuations and safeguard your portfolio. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peDFdmed0Nw Understanding different options  1. Equities: The Cornerstone of a Well-Balanced Portfolio Large-Cap Stocks: Incorporate well-established companies with substantial market capitalization into your investment portfolio. These stalwarts offer stability and a proven track record of consistent growth. Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Stocks: Embrace the potential for higher returns by investing in relatively smaller companies. While they may exhibit higher volatility, they can also provide exciting opportunities for substantial growth. Sector Diversification: Spread your investments across different sectors, such as finance, technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. This prudent approach minimizes the impact of sector-specific downturns, ensuring a more robust portfolio. 2. Bonds: Safeguarding Stability and Steady Returns Government Bonds: Capitalize on the credibility and security of government-issued bonds. These instruments offer fixed interest payments and various tenures, appealing to risk-averse investors. Corporate Bonds: Pursue higher yields by considering bonds issued by well-established corporations. However, exercise caution by evaluating the credit rating and financial health of the issuing entities before committing your investments. 3. Mutual Funds: Professional Expertise at Your Service Index Funds: Benefit from broad market exposure by investing in index funds that replicate specific market indexes, such as the Nifty 50 or the Sensex. These funds tend to offer lower expense ratios and provide a well-diversified investment approach. Equity Funds: Harness the expertise of professional fund managers by investing in equity funds. These funds allow you to access a diversified portfolio of stocks managed by experienced professionals. Select funds with a consistent track record, seasoned managers, and robust investment strategies. Debt Funds: Secure stability and regular income through debt funds, which predominantly invest in fixed-income securities like bonds, debentures, and money market instruments. This option suits investors seeking steady returns and reduced exposure to equity market volatility. 4. Real Estate: Strong Foundation for Long-Term Growth Residential Properties: Delve into the world of real estate investment by considering residential properties. These assets can provide rental income and potential capital appreciation over time. However, meticulous research regarding location, market trends, and legal aspects is vital before making a purchase. Commercial Spaces: Infuse your portfolio with commercial properties, such as office spaces or retail units, which can yield rental income from businesses. Before investing, carefully assess the commercial demand and rental potential of the location. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Enjoy the benefits of real estate investing without the burdens of property management through REITs. These investment vehicles pool funds from multiple investors to acquire income-generating real estate properties, offering diversification, professional management, and liquidity. 5. Gold: A Time-Honored Safe Haven Physical Gold: Enhance portfolio stability with the inclusion of physical gold in the form of jewelry, gold coins, or bars. Ensure proper storage and implement appropriate safety measures to protect these tangible assets. How to manage your fear of investing? Read More Investment options that offer Stability and Liquidity 1. Fixed Deposits (FDs) Fixed deposits (FDs) are a valuable addition to a well-diversified investment portfolio. They offer stability and consistent returns, making them a popular choice for risk-averse investors. FDs provide a secure investment option, allowing individuals to deposit a specific amount for a predetermined period at a fixed interest rate. This simplicity, coupled with ease of understanding and liquidity, makes FDs an attractive option. While they may not offer high growth potential compared to other investment avenues, FDs play a vital role in balancing a portfolio and mitigating risks. By including FDs, investors can create a stable foundation, ensuring resilience in their overall investment strategy. 2. Cash Cash plays a crucial role in portfolio diversification as it provides liquidity and acts as a safety net during uncertain times. Holding a portion of your portfolio in cash allows you to take advantage of investment opportunities that may arise, such as market downturns or undervalued assets. Cash also provides a sense of security and flexibility, enabling you to meet unexpected expenses or emergencies without having to liquidate other investments. While cash does not generate significant returns in terms of interest or growth, it serves as a valuable asset class for maintaining financial stability and capital preservation. Incorporating cash into your portfolio ensures readiness for both planned and unforeseen circumstances, offering peace of mind and strategic financial planning. 3. Periodic Portfolio Rebalancing Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Assess the performance of each asset class and make necessary adjustments to maintain the desired asset allocation. Consulting a Financial Advisor: Engage the services of a qualified financial advisor to receive expert guidance on portfolio rebalancing. EduFund can provide objective insights, help you navigate market fluctuations, and make informed decisions based on your unique circumstances. 4. Investing in Life Insurance for Financial Security Importance of Life Insurance: Recognize the significance of life insurance, even at a young age. Life insurance offers financial protection for your loved ones and can serve as a valuable investment vehicle. Take advantage of lower premium rates available when you're young to secure your future and protect your family's financial well-being. Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs): Explore unit-linked insurance plans that combine life insurance with market-linked investments. ULIPs offer long-term investment potential while providing life insurance coverage. Compare different ULIP options before investing to ensure they align with your financial objectives. 5. Unveiling Investment Biases  Acknowledge and be aware of the biases that can influence your investment decisions. Factors such as risk appetite, family attitudes, luck, and cultural beliefs can shape your investment choices. Reflect on these biases and strive for an objective and informed approach to investing. Embarking on an investment journey requires thoughtful planning and a strategic approach. By diversifying your portfolio, balancing risk and return, and staying informed about market influences, you can enhance your investment outcomes Consult an Expert Advisor

Enrolling overseas to further your study at your dream institution is a remarkable accomplishment. To pass the admission tests and get into college, a lot of work and effort must be put in. It is even more upsetting if your method is unsuccessful in paying your university tuition costs after all of these attempts. In this blog, we will discuss tips to find the best exchange rates and international money transfer options when using an abroad education loan to pay for your studies abroad  Find the Best Exchange Rates & Money Transfer Options The best exchange rates and international money transfer choices may be found by applying the following top suggestions when using an overseas school loan to pay for your studies abroad: 1. Compare the best rates A backup strategy in case your first one fails is a smart idea. You should assess your selections' exchange rates, customer service, and user experiences. 2. Don't use your debit cards at foreign ATMs You would have to pay withdrawals or transaction fees if you used your debit card to make a purchase. Yet, if you were to do an overseas transaction, you would be required to pay for the unfavorable exchange rate, ATM fees at the foreign ATM, and a payment from your bank for using your card at a foreign ATM. The price is about three times what you normally pay with all these fees. Reconsider your necessity before using your card at a foreign bank. If necessary, ask a bank representative about the fees associated with an overseas transaction. 3. Buy items in the local currency This is especially helpful if you're a tourist on the road. Stores frequently offer to accept either dollars or euros in exchange for the amount you'd want to pay. It makes sense, doesn't it? The equivalent will always be a higher exchange rate; that's the problem. Although it might not seem like much at first, it can result in a considerable loss when added together. Instead, do a bulk exchange at a money changer or bank and pay in the local currency. 4. Be wary when there are no currency exchange fees There may be a lot of attempts made by business owners, exchange providers, and money changers to persuade you that there are no additional fees. Even though it could seem like a fantastic deal, give it some thought. It's been a while since I've done that. The answer is straightforward: by raising the already unfavorable exchange rates. How to transfer money from India to abroad? You may select from several techniques to send money abroad from India. The preferred method will be heavily influenced by the reason you are sending the money, as well as any requirements, such as whether you need the money to arrive quickly in case of an emergency, are looking for a cheaper alternative, or would prefer to stick with a single institution, like your bank or online platforms. 1. International money order/ offline money transfer Money orders were the go-to way to transfer money abroad before online wire transfers became popular, even for individuals who had no idea how to do it. It remains a cheap and secure method of sending money outside of India. 2. Online money transfer Western Union is the quickest and most convenient method of sending money abroad. The majority of Indians who send money abroad do it in this manner. The procedure requires the destination account data, the IBAN or SWIFT number of the receiving bank, and details on the account holder, for example. However, remember that you can be charged high taxes and currency rates because this approach uses something other than intermediate organizations. 3. Online wire transfer This is the most recent method to enter the money transfer industry, and it offers inexpensive costs and assessed charges for sending money abroad from India. You may send money through a wire transfer through several financial organizations, including banks and authorized money changers like Western Union, Book My Forex, etc. Although sending money abroad is one of the most expensive, it typically takes longer than internet money transfers. Internet wire transfers use intermediary institutions to transport money abroad, so they may provide low or nonexistent overhead costs. Nowadays, you can access a wide range of businesses and online platforms and are no longer constrained by the possibilities accessible when sending money abroad from India. Whatever option you select, double-check information like the recipient account number and other specifics.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Improved connectivity, new technological developments, and the economic policies adopted by governments have led the world to become one global market. In this era of globalization, it is widespread to see people having economic transactions in various geographical regions leading to tax implications in the respective countries.   And it is not necessary that all governments follow the same tax code. You may have to pay taxes in various countries on the same transaction due to the differences in the tax regulations in those countries. When the same income is taxed twice in two countries, it is double taxation. In this article, we will see, what is double taxation relief, the provisions of double taxation relief in India, and how you can get relief from double taxation. What is double taxation relief?  As discussed earlier, due to the differences in tax regulations, the same income may be subject to tax in two different countries. Identify for reasons four essentials for good combustion in a cylinder. This is called double taxation relief.  Types of double taxation relief  Generally, double taxation relief is provided in two ways. One is called Bilateral Relief, and the other is called Unilateral Relief. When relief is provided when governments of two countries come together and decide which government will tax which type of income and the extent of taxation through an agreement, it is called Bilateral Relief. It is not possible for governments to enter into agreements with all countries to avoid double taxation. So, generally, a provision is incorporated in the tax law which allows the taxpayers the credit of tax paid in another country. Since a country provides this relief unilaterally, it is called Unilateral Relief.  Double Taxation Relief Provisions in India  The taxpayers are given relief in both ways in India. Let us first see the provisions regarding bilateral relief. India has entered into Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA) with more than 100 countries, including Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Japan, the Federal Republic of Germany, Greece, etc. So, the taxability of such income, which otherwise would have been doubly taxed, is determined as per the provisions of DTAA. And if the provisions of tax law are more beneficial to the taxpayer than the DTAA, then the provisions of tax law will remain applicable. However, to claim the benefits of DTAA, the taxpayer must furnish the Tax Residence Certificate.  Now coming to Unilateral relief, you need to know the following provisions:  The assessee is resident in India during the previous year in respect of which the income is taxable.  The income accrues or is deemed to accrue or arise outside India.  The income in question has been subjected to income tax in the foreign country in the hands of the assessee.  The assessee has paid tax on the income in the foreign country.   There is no agreement for relief from double taxation between India and the other country where the income has accrued or arisen.  So, if these conditions are satisfied, you can claim relief even if there is no DTAA between India and the other country. You will get a deduction from the Indian Income Tax payable. The amount of deduction would be calculated on such doubly taxed income as per the provisions of the Income Tax Act, of 1961. These provisions state that the deduction amount will be equal to an amount calculated on such doubly taxed income at the Indian rate of tax or the rate of tax in the foreign country, whichever is lower. Let us understand this with the help of an example.  Double Taxation Relief Example  Let’s say your Indian income from a business in India is Rs. 6,00,00. And you have earned a pretax foreign income of Rs. 2,00,000, which is taxed @ 15% in the foreign country. You have invested in ELSS during the financial year, Rs. 1,50,000, to get the deduction under Sec. 80C. So, your tax liability under Indian income tax would be calculated as follows:  Seeking financial and taxation guidance? Then connect with our experts to know the best way to maximize your income in India.    Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Gold Mutual Fund vs Digital Gold, which is better, and which one should an investor choose? This blog will talk about the pros and cons of investing in these asset classes. Gold has been the conventional investment choice of Indian households over the years, but gradually individuals have realized that keeping physical gold has certain downsides, like storage costs, and more importantly, safekeeping, as it has a risk of theft and robbery. Investors have turned to Digital Gold and Gold Mutual Funds as both are modern-day preferred investment tools because of their value. The benefit of investing in both Gold Mutual Funds and Digital Gold is that investors will not need a Demat account for trading, nor will they have to worry about purity or making charges. What is a Gold Mutual Fund? Gold Mutual Fund, also referred to as Gold Fund, is described as an open-ended Mutual Fund that invests through units of Gold ETFs. Every Gold Fund has a fund manager who is responsible for buying and selling desired assets based on the investment objective of the fund. In a Gold Mutual Fund, the fund manager invests not in physical gold but in paper gold of 99.5% purity for generating an income.  What is Digital Gold? In the digital era, more and more investors are turning towards Digital Gold. It is a financial investment option where investors can trade gold units online anywhere and anytime.  Buying Digital Gold is like holding the 24k gold in a virtual safe instead of a physical vault or locker. Moreover, there are no safekeeping or purity issues; hence investors often consider it a safe bet in terms of investment. An overview of Gold Mutual Fund vs Digital Gold 1. Investment Gold Mutual Funds can invest in gold only through Gold ETFs. The fund manager cannot make direct investments in the stocks of gold packaging, processing, refining, and mining companies. As per SEBI Regulations, these investments fall under the thematic category and cannot be considered Mutual Funds.  Invest in Gold Mutual Funds on the Edufund App with help from qualified advisors.   Digital Gold can be purchased online by anyone, at any place, and at any time. Investors do not need a fund manager for such investments as it can be done through mobile wallet apps like PhonePe, Google Pay and Paytm, etc.  Invest in Digital Gold through Edufund DigiGold Interface, which is easy to operate, understand and manage. Investors can see the invested amount, quantity of gold holdings, % returns, and the current value of their investment on a single screen.   2. Performance The performance of the Gold Mutual Funds depends on the ongoing fluctuations in the price of physical gold.  The Digital Gold price is similar to that of the current rate of physical gold in the market, hence the price that you see is for both physical and Digital Gold.  3. Trading It is possible to invest just INR 100 in a Gold Mutual Fund.  Investors can also trade online 1 gm of Digital Gold at the prevailing market price.  4. Liquidity Both Digital Gold and Gold Mutual Funds are considered highly liquid investments, although Digital Gold can be sold more easily online in a minute without any hassles, while the investor will have to submit the redemption form to the fund house. Investors will then receive an equivalent value in their account.   With the help of the Edufund App, the process of selling Gold Mutual Funds and Digital Gold is hassle-free, and the money is transferred to the account within 48 hours.  5. Convenience Gold Mutual Funds offer less convenience than Digital Gold as they have to be handled through proper channels by a fund manager, whereas Digital Gold can be handled by any individual.  6. Regulatory Body Gold Mutual Funds are regulated by SEBI, and fund houses will have to follow the strict SEBI rules, while Digital Gold has no authorized regulatory body as it is run by independent trustees. Conclusion Smart investors understand that gold is a sure bet against equity investments and inflation, and hence it is better to invest in gold when it comes to diversification of assets. What has changed the mindset over the years is the preference for Gold Mutual Funds and Digital Gold instead of physical gold. Investing in Gold Mutual Funds vs Digital Gold actually depends upon individual preferences. Hope the above-mentioned blog gives better clarity on both asset classes. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

REITs or real estate investment trust funds work similarly to mutual funds or exchange-traded funds, except REITs invest in income-generating real estate. The main advantage of these trusts is that they earn from the real estate market without buying or maintaining these properties. India currently has 3 REITs and 2 InvITs or Infrastructure Investment trusts listed with SEBI. The only difference between the two is the asset type under consideration. REITs would own and operate a commercial space while InvITs invest in infrastructure. Why invest in real estate investment trust funds? From an investor's point of view, apart from the decreased responsibility of maintaining the property, REITs offer quick and easy liquidation, basically overcoming all limitations holding a physical property for investment purposes would entail. REITs can be considered a steady income source in high inflation as they offer risk-adjusted returns while helping diversify one's portfolio. From the government’s point of view, the rate of infrastructure development is a measure of the country’s growth. REITs are relatively cheaper and more accessible than investing in real estate, making it easy to invite investors.  Furthermore, REITs ensure concrete structuring of the real-estate financing industry. With the recent relaxation in REIT compliance rules, the Indian government wants foreign fund managers to relocate to India. How can you lose money in a Real estate investment trust fund? While there always exists a certain amount of risk in every investment, each type of REIT has its limitations which we look into going further. A standard limitation that all REITs face regardless of the asset investment is the slow return on investment. Since the model works on the capital appreciation and rental yield, REITs are susceptible to market fluctuations. Types of REITs and how to invest in them? Although there can be many bifurcations to the types of REITs, we categorize them on the basis of infrastructure - 1. Retail REITs Such trusts have heavy investments in freestanding retail or shopping complexes. Given retail would require a considerable amount towards the maintenance of the property, it won't be a surprise if most of these structures are owned or/and managed by REITs. The majority of the income from these investments is from the rents that tenants pay. Hence, we advised seeking strong anchor tenants to avoid the end of these stores (e.g., grocery stores or home improvement stores typically experience an excellent cash flow). While investing in retail REITs, the REITs themselves must have a strong balance sheet, preferably with less short-term debt. In case of economic disturbance, REITs with a significant cash position have the advantage of increasing their portfolio. 2. Residential REITs Residential REITs majorly earn from rents from tenants. The rent collected from these properties depends on how popular the areas are Typically, areas where renting a house is more affordable than owning one are the ones that would yield higher returns. As a result, trusts in this category tend to focus on large urban centers. REITs to look out for should have the most available capital and strong cash flows. As long as the demand for residential properties keeps rising and the supply remains low, the portfolio should yield good returns. 3. Healthcare REITs However new the concept of healthcare REITs is, as the healthcare cost and average Indian age continue to climb, healthcare REITs would continue to gain popularity. In the case of healthcare REITs, apart from the infrastructure and occupancy fees, REITs rely on Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement and private pay. An ideal option for such REIT would be a company with high, low-cost capital and a strong balance sheet on top of well-diversified property types and customers. 4. Office REITs Since these depend heavily on long-term leases, any factor that would affect a tenant economically would affect the performance of the overall portfolio, i.e. unemployment rate, state of the economy, and other things. Other factors to look out for would be the location of the properties and the capital available for acquisitions. A REIT that invests in average properties in Mumbai would fare better than luxurious office space in Udaipur.  5. Mortgage REITs Such REITs invest in, you guessed it, Mortgages instead of equity. Mortgage REITs lend money to real estate either through loans or through the acquisition of mortgage-backed securities. The risk to such investments lies in increased interest rates, leading to a decrease in the mortgage REIT book value and hence decreasing the stock prices. Furthermore, an increased interest rate leads to more expensive financing and reduced weight of a portfolio of loans. In a low-interest-rate environment, most REITs would trade at a discount to net asset value per share when there is a possibility of an increase in interest rate. Listed REITs and InvITs in India 1. Embassy REIT (2017) The company owns and operates 42.6 million square feet of infrastructure, office parks, and buildings. The properties under their portfolio are in Pune, Mumbai and Bengaluru, and the National capital region. 2. Mindspace REIT (2020) Managed by K Raheja Corp Investment Managers LLP., the total leasable area under management is 31.3 million sq. ft. Their portfolio is well-diversified into business and IT parks spread across the main commercial hubs in India. It is well-established in Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. 3. Brookfield India Real Estate Trust (2019) Being the only institutionally managed REIT, Brookfield operates in Kolkata, Gurgaon, Mumbai, and Noida. The trust's portfolio covers 18.6 million sq. ft of commercial real estate. 4. IndiGrid Trust (2016) IndiGrid is one of the first movers in the Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) in the power transmission sector. Ingrid owns and manages power transmission networks and renewable energy assets throughout India. Seven thousand five hundred seventy circuit kilometers of transmission lines and 13,550 MVA transformation capacity make IndiGrid the most significant Power transmission-based InvIT in India. 5. IRB InvIT Fund (2017) IRB Fund invests in infrastructure development and construction in the roads and highway sector under the sponsorship of IRB infrastructure developers Limited. It is listed with India's Securities and Exchange Board since 2008. It has owned and maintained six toll roads in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujrat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan. Lastly, although REITs offer a slow return on investments, they offer as high as 90% of their income as dividends. Being regulated by SEBI and disclosed capital portfolio makes it a safe bet. FAQs How can I invest in REIT directly in India? REITs or real estate investment trust funds work similarly to mutual funds or exchange-traded funds, except REITs invest in income-generating real estate. Investing in REITs means buying certain units of stock on the stock market, so you need a DEMAT account to invest in REITs.   Can you lose money in REITs? While there always exists a certain amount of risk in every investment, each type of REIT has its limitations. A standard limitation that all REITs face, regardless of the asset investment, is the slow return on investment. Since the model works on the capital appreciation and rental yield, REITs are susceptible to market fluctuations.  Is REIT safer than stocks? REITs can be considered a steady income source in high inflation as they offer risk-adjusted returns while helping diversify one’s portfolio. REITs are relatively cheaper and more accessible than investing in real estate, making it easy to invite investors. REITs have historically given competitive returns.   How do beginners invest in REITs? Any investor needs a DEMAT account to buy stocks on the stock market. It is important to know the stock in detail before making an investment. Conduct extensive research before investing in any stocks. It would be safe for a beginner to consult a financial expert before making an investment.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Gold, often referred to as a safe haven, acts as a diversification product against the stock market. Currently, the Ukraine-Russia conflict has quite an impact on the market. This geopolitical issue has had a significant negative effect on the stock market, whereas gold prices increased tremendously.  Gold crossed ₹51,500 per 10 gm on February 24, 2022 – the highest in 13 months, as Russia declared war on Ukraine. Over the past twelve months, gold prices have been inching north due to the global market's heightened volatility considering Covid-19, Omicron, and rising geopolitical tensions and factors such as rising inflation.   Gold vs Capital market  The correlation between gold and the stock market cannot be established directly. Gold has an inverse relationship with the stock market. Gold has a negative correlation to the stock market movement. The chart below shows how the market panned out over the past 12 months. One thing is evident the market witnessed high volatility owing to multiple economic and global factors.  The above graph shows the monthly gold price movement over one year.  Also, going by the VIX chart, it is evident that the volatility in the market has increased, and in some small-cap and mid-cap segments, the price corrections have been very steep. On February 24, the market fell massively by nearly 4.7% - the single largest fall in the last two years.  Should you consider investing in gold?  Investors commonly perceive gold as a haven in a severe stock market downturn. Historically it has been proved that whenever the stock market plummets, gold performs very well. The sale of gold coins, gold bars, and gold ETFs is maximum when the stock market performs poorly.   Similarly, gold demand picks up fast when a country's GDP is faltering. This is because when the economy is unstable, investors prefer to park their money in hard assets.  Value is held for ages - Unlike other currencies or assets, gold has maintained its value throughout the ages. While people see it as a means of transferring wealth from one generation to other, we believe gold is one of the best instruments that have sustained value for centuries now.  Helps beat inflation – Gold has always been an excellent hedge against inflation. Its price tends to increase with the rising cost of living. Typically, while stock tends to plunge during the high-inflation period, gold, on the contrary, results in a direct correlation with the price increase. Thus, it provides a natural hedge against inflation.  Geopolitical Uncertainty – Gold as a universal investment instrument holds its value in times of uncertainty – be it financial uncertainty or geopolitical uncertainty. Often referred to as the "crisis commodity", the yellow metal seems to see a high demand from people when world tensions rise. For example, in response to the crisis in the European Union, gold prices started to inch north.    Portfolio Diversification – One of the basic concepts of diversification is finding investments that are not closely correlated to one another. Historically, it has been found that gold has had a negative correlation with other financial instruments such as stocks. This can be vetted with the following example:  During 1970, while the stock prices were terrible, it was great for gold.  Between the 1980s and 1990s, while the era was good for stocks, gold prices crashed significantly.  In 2008, the stock market saw a significant correction and many investors migrated to gold.  We believe a well-diversified portfolio with the right combination of stocks, bonds (both standalone and in the form of mutual funds), gold, and liquid cash in a portfolio will help reduce the overall risk of the portfolio while maximizing returns.  Weakness in global currency – US Dollar is regarded as one of the most important currencies in the world and constitutes to be a part of every treasury reserve held by economies globally. During times when the value of the dollar falls against other currencies, as it happened in 2008, it is likely that people flock to the security of gold.  Demand-Supply mismatch – The supply of gold in the market has been falling since the 1990s, and much of the gold sales are made from the vaults of central banks, given the production of new gold from mines has been declining. On the other hand, rising wealth in emerging markets has boosted the demand for gold over the past couple of decades. Thus, as a general rule, reducing supply coupled with rising demand results in increasing gold prices.  How much allocation is ideal for the gold  Investment in gold, as discussed above, should only be considered as a protection against macroeconomic shocks. Thus, it should form a part of your portfolio based on your risk appetite. We believe people in India generally act too extreme. They tend to either invest a 100% portfolio in gold or don't invest at all. Based on the risk-return profile of gold and other asset class, it should not account for more than 10% of the total portfolio.  How to invest in gold?  Once an investor has determined the allocation of gold to the overall portfolio, an investor should look at the ways by which an investor can invest in gold:  Physical Gold - Can be bought as coins or bars  Jewelry - It is another option, but the cost of converting gold into jewelry is high.   Gold Funds and ETFs - Passive investment in gold. An investor can invest in units of gold funds or gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that are managed by asset-managed companies.  E-gold - It can be bought on a commodity exchange through any broker. Re-materialization of e-gold allows conversion into physical gold as per the requirement of the investor.  Sovereign Gold Bonds - Bonds offer similar returns that are offered by physical gold. It also provides tax benefits.  Why digital gold and the benefits of investing in digital gold  Digital Gold is issued by MMTC (Metals and Minerals Trading Corporation of India) or Augmont. Investing in digital gold is just like buying physical gold. The only exception is that there is no physical possession of gold. This offers a clear advantage over issues like purity, storage, making charges, wastage, and liquidity.     Gold mutual funds and ETFs are also alternatives to physical gold. However, their efficiency doesn't match that of digital gold. This is mainly because of their expense ratios and other relevant charges that are paid to the fund house.   Here are some benefits of investing in digital gold -   Can be started with as low as Rs. 10/- No charges such as expense ratio  Holdings can be exchanged against physical gold with the option of door delivery.  Thus, digital gold is increasingly becoming one of the best ways to invest in gold.  Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that invest in gold and other precious metals have seen massive inflows as investors rush to shield themselves. Investors are mainly panic selling their stock investments under the current conflict situation and investing in gold, gold ETFs or digital gold to hedge against their massive losses in stocks.  With the situation worsening, having Russia started its invasion of Ukraine, the markets are likely to correct until the tension between the two countries eases. This is like shooting the gold prices north. It is advisable for an investor looking to protect the portfolio from short-term volatility to take a position in gold.  FAQs Why do people buy gold in crisis?   The sale of gold coins, gold bars, and gold ETFs is maximum when the stock market performs poorly. Similarly, gold demand picks up fast when a country’s GDP falters. This is because when the economy is unstable, investors prefer to park their money in hard assets. People invest in gold during a crisis because:   Gold maintains its value for a long period   It helps beat inflation   Gold holds its value during geopolitical uncertainty   It offers portfolio diversification  Should we buy gold during the war?   Investors commonly perceive gold as a haven in a severe stock market downturn. Historically it has been proved that whenever the stock market plummets, gold performs very well, which is the case when two countries are at war.   The sale of gold coins, gold bars, and gold ETFs is maximum when the stock market performs poorly. Similarly, gold demand picks up fast when a country’s GDP falters. This is because when the economy is unstable, investors prefer to park their money in hard assets.   Will gold go up because of Ukraine?   When Russia declared war on Ukraine several months back, the gold crossed ₹51,500 per 10 gm on February 24, 2022, which was the highest in 13 months. From 2021 to 2022, gold prices continued to rise because of Omicron spread and rising geopolitical tensions.   Will Russia's war affect gold?   Gold, often referred to as a safe haven, acts as a diversification product against the stock market. The Ukraine-Russia conflict has had quite an impact on the market. This geopolitical issue has had a significant adverse effect on the stock market, whereas gold prices increased tremendously.   Also, keep in mind that gold prices will always keep growing due to the never-ending demand for gold. 

Inflation has been a buzzword globally since Covid19 pandemic was over. Almost every country has been witnessing high inflation, and some are seeing skyrocketing inflation in a few decades.   The rise in the price of cars, electronics, food, and fuel only reminds us how household goods and consumption items are becoming costlier. While discussing the fuel price has been all the rage, there are some items where inflation has been hovering around for quite some time and that too consistently.   This is nothing but Education. Unfortunately, this area needs to be spoken about more, as people are aloof about how it is not only making a hole in your pocket but also denting your aspiration.  Education inflation is the silent killer and is for real. But why is it so critical?  Because it can demolish the dreams of a brighter future when taken lightly. Here's an example that proves this powerful statement - Despite the pandemic, IITs increased their fees in 2021-22 from INR 90K to INR 200K. This is over 100%.   So, a financially unprepared parent will face the heat of the situation with their child for admission!   Why is education inflation scary?  Below is the list of different segments and inflation over the last ten years. Source: MOSPI, EduFund Research  The data highlights the reality that the rise in education costs has surpassed all other necessities and consumables in the last decade. This rise is partial because the government is looking to reduce funding grants. Additionally, there has been growth in living standards and services offered by the Educational Institutes and thus the premium.   In addition to headline educational expenses, many hidden costs hurt a parent. For instance, exam registration fees saw an approximate 6.7% hike last year. Additionally, transportation and student accommodation costs contribute significantly to the overall increase in education costs. And finally, food costs are another major contributor that needs to be highlighted while planning for higher Education.   Increasing tuition fees in India   College tuition fees in India have seen an enormous rise over the years. Here is some data on total course fees for specific courses that help paint a clearer picture of how fast the tuition fees have risen over the years.  Source: EduFund Research  The figures are staggering, and one of the main reasons students drop out of college midway. According to recent data, approximately 39% of students aged 20-24 drop out of college to help their family increase their household income. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly apparent that there is a need for proper education planning in India, as many parents need to be aware of the rising tuition fee and how to tackle it.   Education costs abroad on the rise  If you want to send your child abroad, the cost will be higher, and you must be prepared to shell out much more to pay.  But why?  Because, in addition to inflation or price hike, currency depreciation also hurts you.  So, even if the college abroad doesn't increase the fees, you will pay higher Indian Rupee terms because of the depreciating Rupee. And, if the colleges increase fees (which they have done every year), the cost increases further in Indian Rupees. Cost of Education in Indian Rupee when fees don't increase      Jan-22 Jan-23 Change (%) Fees USD 79,540 79,540 0% USD | INR Rs 74.51 82.74 11% Fees Rs Lakhs 59.3 65.8 11% Note: The Fees are considered for Princeton University (Undergraduate Admission). The Fees is for 2022-23 and include - Tuition: $57,410, Housing: $10,960, Food: $7,670, and Estimated Miscellaneous Expenses: $3,500.Source: https://admission.princeton.edu/   Fees in the United States increased to nearly 5x from what it was in 1985. The scenario is similar for destinations like the UK, Canada, and Australia.   Despite the pandemic, some universities abroad announced increasing the tuition fee for this academic year (2022-2023). The University of Pennsylvania announced a 2.9% increase in tuition fees, while Arizona State University announced that tuition fees would increase by 5% for international students. The international students at all three campuses of the University of Illinois are likely to see a 1.5 to 2.5% hike in their tuition fees.  How are you planning for your life's most considerable expense before retirement?  Unfortunately, the depth of the issue only hits you once you are close to paying for your child's college, which is one or two years before. And suddenly, you are left with only two choices- compromising on the quality of Education or opting for loans with a high-interest rate which eventually increases your overall cost of Education (after including the interest component on loan). Both decisions will have a significant impact on your child's future.   But you can avoid it. How?  You can avoid financial stress by saving early for your child's college. The sooner you begin investing in your child's education expenses, the more time you give your savings to grow. Here is an example of how you could create an education fund for your child by investing early:   Unit 5 yrs. 10 yrs. 15 yrs. SIP Rs/month 10,000 10,000 10,000 Annual Returns % Per Annum 15 15 15 Total Outflow Rs 6,00,000 12,00,000 18,00,000 Accumulated Amount Rs 8,96,817 27,86,573 67,68,631 Note: The returns here are hypothetical and do not guarantee performance. Source: EduFund Research Find the right investment tool that suits your educational goal and start investing to achieve the goal. If you are overwhelmed with the available options, seek a financial expert to help you with your education investments.  

Look at the market fluctuations as your friend rather than your enemy; Profit from folly rather than participate in it.” Warren Buffet Market falling or fluctuation is extremely common. The market (NIFTY50 Index) has corrected by 6.31% from its recent peak of 18350 (17th Jan 2022) to 17149 (25th Jan 2022) & 7.82% from its all-time high of 18604 (19th Oct 2021).  Market movement for 15 days before & after the budget  Decoding the charts The EduFund Research Team has performed the study to determine the reason for the recent fall in the markets and here’s what they came up with.  Reasons for the fall Tightening of monetary policy by the US Fed department  Lower than expected results of major corporates  Tension on the borders of Ukraine-Russia  How the fall affects you?  According to Nifty50’s data for the past 2 years, we can see that the market has fallen by 6.56% in 2020 and 7.83% in 2021, just before the budget. And after these falls, the market rebounded 5.32% & 13.49% in 2019 & 2020 - in a short time frame from the correction.  This means that there is actually no need to be worried about the fall in the market. After the budget, we could see a positive movement in the market.  We believe such correction/volatility in the market is a great time for long-term investors.  Make the most of the recent market fluctuations  These short-term market fluctuations and volatility actually provide a good entry point in an otherwise rising market.   Also, if you are an investor investing through the SIP route, you should not panic about these volatile situations. Instead, let the rupee cost averaging work in your favor by topping up a lump sum during this time. India is currently trading at a PE of 24.84 (Median – 20.45).  Take a look at some of the top funds you can invest in Fund Name Category Annualized Returns (3-Years) Risk ICICI Prudential Corporate Bond Direct-Growth Corporate Bond 8.19% Low Tata Hybrid Equity Direct Growth Hybrid 15.28% Average Mirae Asset Large-cap Fund Direct-Growth Large-cap 18.61% Moderately High DSP Flexi-cap Fund Direct Growth Flexi-Cap 23.02% High  FAQs What is the reason of market going down? Tightening of monetary policy by the US Fed department  Lower than expected results of major corporates  Tension on the borders of Ukraine-Russia How the fall affects you?  According to Nifty50’s data for the past 2 years, we can see that the market has fallen by 6.56% in 2020 and 7.83% in 2021, just before the budget. And after these falls, the market rebounded 5.32% & 13.49% in 2019 & 2020 - in a short time frame from the correction. Should you stop your investments during market fluctuations? Yes, it is important to check on your investments when market fluctuates but stopping and/or pausing depends on the type of investment and the effect of the market on the industry. Consult your financial advisor before making changes to your portfolio. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Surprisingly, due to inflation, INR 30 lakh in 2001 is only worth roughly INR 8.1 lakhs now. This indicates that because inflation occurs on top of inflation from the previous year, the result is exactly like compound interest. In this article, we'll look at the causes of this as well as what $30 lakh will be worth in 20 years. What is the value of 30 lakhs after 20 years? Simply put, 20 years ago, you could have purchased a lot more with 30 lakh rupees than you can now. As a result, even if you were to save for 15, 20, or 30 years and eventually be able to buy 30 lakh rupees or more, its actual worth would be far smaller. With today's inflation rate of 6%, it would be equivalent to Rs 9.35 lakh. As a result, at 6% inflation, if you wanted Rs. 30 lakhs in 20 years, you might get Rs. 9.35 lakh now. If nominal inflation were assumed to be 6%, this amount would increase to Rs 96.21 lakh. Therefore, in 20 years, the demand of 30 lakhs will be Rs 96.21 lakh. The solution is to save money that is inflation-adjusted. To establish the requirements for it, you must first inflate the cost of the aim. Start a SIP after that to begin saving for the inflated goal cost. Additional read: Value of 1 lakh after 20 years How can SIP make you rich? Long-term equity investments may be made via SIP. You may use it to consistently invest a small amount in mutual funds without trying to time the market. To build wealth, it would be good if you continued to make SIPs during both bull and down market times. Let's look at an illustration of how SIP might result in financial success. Consider making a monthly investment of INR 10,000 in an equities fund. If you invest just INR 10,000 per month through a SIP in an equities fund for 30 years, you might amass a corpus of INR 3.53 crore. Compounding power makes money grow and makes you richer. You must start saving early so that you may continue to do so throughout your working life if you want to build up a sizeable corpus for retirement. Please be advised that we expect the equities fund to yield an average of 12%. Actual outcomes might be impacted by the markets and the fund. What is inflation? Sometimes the amount of inflation is expressed in general terms, such as the overall rise in prices or the rise in the cost of living across the board. For some goods, like food, or services, like haircuts or travel costs, it may be calculated more accurately. Inflation is a measurement of how much a certain set of goods and services have increased in price over time, independent of the context. You should anticipate paying more for the same goods and services this year than you did last year due to inflationary pressure. If you owned the stocks or homes before the price increase, you may have benefited. But if your salary does not increase at the same rate as inflation, your purchasing power will decline. Your cost of living rises over time due to inflation, which can also have a negative impact on the economy if it is severe enough. High inflation has far-reaching repercussions on a country's economy. How to overcome inflation? The government attempts to control inflation via monetary and fiscal policies. You should, however, have a plan of your own to guard against it. The main reason people invest is so they can continue to live well in the future despite an increase in the cost of living. You must thus make investment decisions that will allow you to generate returns that outpace inflation. These investments do, however, involve a greater level of risk than traditional savings accounts. High-growth potential investments like stocks and mutual funds stand a good opportunity to generate better returns. These investments have frequently produced returns that have outpaced inflation.  You could also take into account other investment options to diversify your wealth. Money should also be invested rather than kept in savings accounts. Investors may consider buying stocks depending on how much risk they can tolerate. Investing in mutual funds has the potential to yield significant rewards in the long run. How to secure yourself and your family's future If you want to save money for your post-retirement lifestyle, you need to be more strategic and careful. You must consider the possibility of living past your anticipated retirement age as well as fluctuations in interest rates in addition to inflation. Your objectives should be reviewed and reevaluated. Working with real numbers is required. If you have questions regarding where to invest or how to do so, you may consult with financial specialists at EduFund. You may help your children achieve their goals by utilizing EduFund to invest your money. To schedule a free consultation call with the experts, download the EduFund app to your mobile. Parents may begin saving for their child's college education early on to avoid having their child's promising future wrecked by education inflation. TALK TO AN EXPERT

What is digital gold? What are the benefits of Digital Gold as an investment? How is it better than buying traditional gold? Digital Gold refers to the process of buying and investing in gold virtually. You can do all of this online; there is no need to go to a jewelry store. It’s the more suitable way of buying gold.  Investors who want to sell or buy gold can do it without any problems with one click. The minimum cost of buying or selling gold can be as low as Rs 1. Benefits of Investing in Digital Gold  Safe storage: The best benefit is its hassle-free and secure storage, which can be guaranteed. The gold you buy will be stored in a secured vault.  The minimum limit for buying or selling gold: There’s no limit on buying costs. The minimum cost can be as low as Rs 1. The person who buys the gold will have it registered under his name.  Collateral: If you are looking to take out a loan, then you can keep the digital gold as collateral for the loan.  Authenticity: Virtually all gold bought today is 24 karats, and that’s why it’s 99.99% pure. The chances of fraud are low.  Easy exchange: Another advantage is that digital gold can be exchanged anywhere, anytime, for physical gold or coins.  Gifts: It can be the perfect gift for someone’s wedding or birthday day. You can gift anyone the digital gold you brought without worrying about its safety and physical transfer. Disadvantages of digital gold  The price at which you have invested doesn’t increase. It doesn’t increase your invested money.  There’s a maximum amount in which you can invest, which is Rs 2 lakh.  Even though when buying digital gold, you don’t need to pay making charges, you still have to pay 3% GST with it.  There is no regulation by SBI or SEBI.  Who should buy digital gold?  Anyone who cannot buy physical gold or cannot invest large sums of money at once can choose digital gold.  You can buy digital goods without worrying about their safety. You can buy digital gold in the Edufund app too. Link for the app (URL)  You can buy digital gold from any other source too.  Digital gold can be bought and sold anytime at market price without going to a jewelry shop.  You can buy other types of digital gold, such as gold bonds or ETFs. This is the best way to invest in gold.  Indians are in the second position in terms of buying gold. More than 100 million consumers own digital gold. FAQ Is investing in digital gold worth it?  Buying and storing digital gold makes it much easier, more useful, and more secure than buying physical gold How long can I not sell my digital gold?  Five years. Is there GST on digital gold?  There is a 3% GST on digital gold.Digital gold can be a good option for those who want to start their investment journey but are not ready to invest too much. One of the best benefits of digital gold is the flexibility and convenience of buying and selling

Digital Gold is a great way to invest in gold without having to block large sums of capital that you need when investing in physical gold. It is easy to invest in, easy to store, and easy to sell when you want your money back.  Investing in gold as an asset class has been a key factor in traditional portfolios. But the rising gold prices have made the minimum investment in this asset class quite steep. This is one of the reasons why many young investors are unable to invest in this class. Why invest in Digital Gold?  Here are some benefits of investing in digital gold:   Invest in small amounts and quantities Kept safe in secured lockers Easy to buy, sell, monitor All investment details on one screen DigiGold investing at the click of a button Start investing small amounts today Today one gram of gold costs around Rs. 5200. Of course, with gold prices constantly rising, it becomes challenging for investors to put in huge blocks of money required today to purchase even 10 gms of gold. To help investors continue investing limited funds in this precious commodity, Digital Gold is a great alternative.  You can start by investing Rs.100 or more every month and increase the amount whenever you want.   Buy according to value or weight With the Digital Gold option, you can instantly buy DigiGold from Rs. 10 onwards. You can choose to buy DigiGold by its value in rupees or define the quantity in gms. You also get to see the live rate of gold, which refreshes every 5 minutes. Selling digital gold is also easy and hassle-free. Click here to start your digital gold investment! Why invest in Digital Gold on the EduFund App? EduFund allows you to buy and sell digital gold from the comfort of your home. All you need to do is download the App and start saving in gold at just Rs. 10!  You can also get amazing offers and rewards.   1. User- Friendly interface The EduFund DigiGold interface is extremely simple to understand and easy to manage and navigate. On a single screen, you get to see the amount invested, the current value of your investment, and the % returns on the same. You can also check the quantity of gold you hold in your locker. 2. Stored safely for you The DigiGold you purchase is kept safe in secured lockers at no extra cost to you. And you can buy and sell this gold easily from the convenience of your app, simply at the click of a button. So there are no certificates to maintain, and no worry about the purity of your gold, as all DigiGold traded on this app is 99.9% purity certified. You can check on your investments regularly and if you decide to sell your DigiGold, your physical assets will be liquidated and you will get your money in less than 48 hours. That is as quick as selling your mutual fund holdings! Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Every investor is looking for a well-diversified portfolio. But due to a lack of knowledge, investors can't do it themselves.  Here, EduFund comes in to solve your problem at no extra cost. How? Let's find out in this blog Why Educase? There are different educases to meet the requirement of every level of investor. Every educase is made with proper diversification and the right asset allocation. For aggressive risk or long-term category of investors, the exposure is more in the equity asset class to provide good returns and for an investor with a short-term view (6 months), the exposure is more in the debt asset class. So, these educases meet the requirement of every investor. What is Navi Skyscraper Returns Educase? Navi Educase is a pack of multiple equity mutual funds investing across market capitalization and sectors, with most of the Index funds. Navi Skyscraper Returns is an aggressive risk category educase that invests your money in equity funds having high growth potential. This educase comes up with relatively low volatility and stable returns because this educase invests majorly in Index funds. Why Navi Skyscraper Returns Educase? It provides you with a well-diversified portfolio from a wide range of large, mid, and small-cap companies at a very low cost with the benefit of annual rebalancing. The past data on educases has been back-tested before implementation. The strategy behind Aggressive Educase This educase is designed in such a way that it beats inflation and helps you to create wealth over a long-term period. Index funds have been given more weightage to provide consistency in returns and match the market returns. Who should invest in? Early parents who have just started savings for their toddlers and have more than 7 years to save. Since the educase only consists of equity funds, the returns may not be seen in a shorter period, but in a longer period, returns will be more than average. Advantages No extra cost - There is no hidden or extra cost being charged to invest in educase. Annual rebalancing - All the Navi educases are rebalanced annually if required.  Continuous monitoring - Navi educases are tracked and monitored continuously. Lowest expense ratio – Navi as an AMC (Asset Management Company) offers the lowest expense ratio in the industry. So this educase has the lowest expense ratio because of the Index fund. Experienced Research Team – EduFund research team has a total experience of more than 35 years collectively. Due Diligence – Educases are made after proper research and due diligence is done by EduFund research team. How can you invest in Navi Educase? The process is simple and paperless: Download the EduFund app from the apple store or android play store. Complete the KYC process. Calculate your risk appetite. Explore the Navi Educase under Educases. And place your order. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

It's crucial to raise children and make plans for their future. However, it may be difficult to balance a family's requirements and aspirations with considerations like savings, pensions, and budget. In this blog, we will address the financial mistakes you are making as a parent. 1. Not tracking finances It is challenging to set aside money at the end of each month due to the escalating costs. However, surviving paycheck to paycheck is a bad idea and might lead to debt. Drawing up a budget and keeping track of income and spending at the end of each month is the best course of action for young families. Apps may help you analyze and restructure your family budget so you can cut out wasteful spending.  Your children should be taught that spending what is left over after saving is more essential than saving what is left over after spending. 2. Not building a safety net For new parents, creating an emergency fund must be a top financial priority. You must plan ahead to create a financial safety net in case of job loss, a medical emergency, house repairs, or a family disaster. Depending on the number of income earners, save enough money to meet your costs for three to six months.  Investing in a savings and investments plan, which provides several opportunities for financial growth, is an excellent method to protect your family. You may speak with our specialists at  EduFund if you're unsure about where or how to invest. Install the EduFund app on your device to book a free consultation call with the experts. 3. Not saving for your child's education The worst parenting blunder would be being unable to support your child's education. No matter how young your child is, it is always preferable to begin saving for their education as soon as possible.  Saving for their future will snowball the longer you put it off. Additionally, the high levels of non-performing assets serve as the primary explanation for the collapse (NPAs). Therefore, it is suggested that you begin saving for your child's higher education as soon as your child is born in order to avoid any last-minute trouble. 4. Not teaching your children about money As vital as educating your kids to read and write is to teach them financial literacy. Parents who don't invest time in their kids' financial education might suffer serious repercussions on the road. By regularly talking to your kids about money, you may prevent them from making this money error. You can begin by demonstrating how to establish a budget for them and letting them make a monthly budget on their own. This will assist them in learning how to save money and achieve their financial objectives. 5. Not having a retirement plan All parents frequently engage in this behavior, and practically all parents in India are no exception. All of your material decisions, especially those involving money, revolve around your children as soon as they enter your life.  However, it would be beneficial if you kept in mind to save money for the future. Retirement savings issues may arise if you don't start saving now. It is not a good idea to rely on your children to support you as you age since it may put an additional financial strain on them.  Therefore, it is advised to begin setting aside money in a retirement or pension plan at a young age that will enable you to maintain your financial independence after retirement. In addition to this, contributing money to a retirement plan enables you to accumulate a corpus and protect your finances from unanticipated financial hazards. 6. Using your kids as an excuse for lifestyle inflation Children should not be a justification for living a lavish lifestyle. Some parents may use having children as a justification to rent or purchase a home that they are unable to afford comfortably. Even if there are more affordable options available, some parents may still decide to enroll their kids in pricey private schools in the belief that they would receive a better education.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to provide your kids with the greatest education and upbringing possible. The issue arises when you spend more than you can afford to, leaving you with little left over to save and invest for the future or retirement. Many parents make common financial blunders, maybe out of a desire to give their children the best possible living. It's quite simple to commit all or some of the financial blunders listed above when being a parent, trying to balance paying the bills, providing for your family, saving money, and investing. The good news is that you can fix these mistakes and go forward in life with better and more stable financial foundations.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT