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The central bank of the United States - The Federal Reserve, since the beginning of 2020, has printed over $3 trillion with significant printing activity happening between March 4th, 2020, and April 15th, 2020 when the assets of the central bank rose by nearly 50% from $4.24 trillion to $6.37 trillion respectively. The printing was majorly carried out to combat the impact the Covid-19, which has resulted in a weakening economic condition. But how does it impact the U.S. economy, currency, and Indian investors? How does the central bank put money into the economy? The Federal Reserve prints money and buys bonds equivalent to the money printed from financial institutions. This leads to a supply of currency in the economy, which is likely to drive down the interest rate (for borrowers), thereby putting an impetus on their consumption pattern. Additionally, lowering the interest rate also compels businesses to borrow and expand their presence. These activities are aimed at reviving the economy. The printing of currency, however, has led to a weakening of the dollar as seen in the dollar index chart (See charts below).  Source: FRED; EduFund Research What happens to the U.S. Dollar Index? The U.S. Dollar Index: It is a barometer for the international value of the U.S. dollar and the world's most recognized, publicly-traded currency index. The U.S. Dollar Index measures the value of the U.S. dollar relative to a basket of the top 6 currencies: EUR, JPY, GBP, CHF, CAD, and SEK. As seen from the chart below, the dollar has been weakening. Note: DXY – U.S. Dollar Index; DJI – Dow Jones Industrial Average At what rate is the money printed? The maximum growth in printing was during the weeks ending March 18th, March 25th, April 1st, April 8th, and April 15th. Not surprisingly, the Dow Jones Industrial Average, after bottoming out around March 18th, started to gain traction with the week ending April 8th showing a 12% increase over the previous week. During the period between March 18th to June 10th, the DJIA returned as much as 36%. The explanation for the rally is simple the money created by the central bank found its way to the American stock market and also the market outside of the U.S. in some cases. Considering the FPI activity, the data is in line with what one can expect with the creation of liquidity by the central banker. 12 months FPI flow – India in Asia looking for constructive long-term growth Source: businesstoday.in Has the newly printed money helped the economy? Well, the extent of the downturn and pace of recovery is uncertain and is likely to remain the same in the days to come. Until a trend for full recovery from Covid-19 is seen, re-instating confidence amongst the citizens remains a daunting task. Only with full recovery in sight, people will be able to re-engage in a broad range of activities. Also, the policy actions, to provide relief and support the economic recovery, at different levels of the government is likely to show some signs in days to come. What does it mean for Asian investors, particularly in India? A weakening dollar signals a higher risk appetite and is considered positive for growth in emerging economies. Further, the likelihood of renewed weakness in the U.S. dollar following Democrat Joe Biden's presidential victory should give another reason for investors to favor Asian stocks, including India. Robust local currencies help bolster the national balance sheet, and borrowers benefit from lower dollar-denominated repayment. Faced with a softening dollar, U.S. investors tend to seek growth and earnings opportunities outside the country. This has shown some improving signs for the economy such as in India where the corporate earnings are responding positively. Conclusion We, at Edufund, believe that the dollar's woes are expected to continue and Asia, including India, is setting itself for a constructive start to 2021. Any positive development on the vaccine front is likely to encourage investors toward riskier assets while shying away from traditional havens. Additionally, the fact that Democrats do not have Senate control may reduce the possibility of future stimulus thereby putting more pressure on the Fed to act aggressively for economic revival. Thus, the currency is likely to depreciate over the longer term, due to less favorable U.S. interest rates relative to other G-10 currencies than in the past. FAQs What is the U.S. Dollar Index? US Dollar Index is a barometer for the international value of the U.S. dollar and the world's most recognized, publicly-traded currency index. How does the central bank put money into the economy? The Federal Reserve prints money and buys bonds equivalent to the money printed from financial institutions. This leads to a supply of currency in the economy, which is likely to drive down the interest rate (for borrowers), thereby putting an impetus on their consumption pattern. What happens to the value of money if it is overprinted? Overprinting can result in the devaluing of money and also cause inflation in the market.

Everyone wants a slice of the American Dream and with globalization, benefiting from the world's largest economy is no longer just a dream. Now Indians are investing in US markets from the comfort of their homes yet there are some common mistakes to avoid when investing in the US stock market that you should know before entering! The US stock market offers significant opportunities for investors worldwide, from selected securities to exchange-traded funds across a variety of indices and themes.  However, before you invest in US equities, you need to know how to prevent the following US stock investing blunders. While some will be similar to stock market investing blunders to avoid if you're a newbie, others will be exclusive to supporting in the United States.   Ten mistakes to avoid when investing in the US stock market  1. Holding only equities  While it is natural to desire to invest in a few of the world's most well-known companies, focusing solely on choosing specific equities is one of the most common mistakes to make when investing in the United States.  Your investing strategy should be customized to your risk tolerance and include a nice blend of equities and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). If you're new to the stock market in the United States, you should begin with an ETF-only strategy.  2. Lack of investment goals  A lack of adequate investment goals is among the most prevalent blunders when investing in global stock markets. You must carefully craft your investment goals and use the most suitable financial tools to attain them.  3. Going with the trend, don't  Please do not purchase a stock simply because it has come up in the press or because you believe you have already lost money due to a company's surge and therefore cannot afford to lose any more. Remember, you're investing in a company, not a stock.  4. Timing the market  Another classic stock-trading gaffe is attempting to time the market. It's difficult to gauge the demand, and experienced investors frequently make mistakes.   According to an American Pension Fund Returns study, correct asset allocation accounts for roughly 94 percent of portfolio returns, not market timing or individual stock selection.  5. Ignoring tax liabilities  Keep in mind this flowchart  6. Not knowing forex rates  The exchange rate is essential when depositing Indian cash into your US brokerage account. Your bank will also charge you a foreign exchange conversion fee.   As a result, it's best to go with a platform that has partnered with banks to offer better exchange rates and a reduced markup cost.  7. Violating LRS regulations  The LRS regulates how much money an Indian person can send abroad and for what purposes. An Indian cannot use margin to invest internationally, in speculative products, or trade in FX pairs under the LRS.  8. Asset class allocation   The secret to a good investment portfolio is asset allocation. On the other hand, investors make the typical mistake of focusing on individual equities rather than doing adequate asset allocation.  9. Over diversification   When used correctly, diversification is an excellent risk management technique. When assets have various risk profiles and little correlation, it adds value.   Over-diversifying, on the other hand, can be counterproductive. Adding US equities ETFs to a diverse US stock portfolio, for example, may well not make sense.  10. Being impatient  Long-term investing requires only 1% action and 99 percent patience. On the other hand, many investors lack patience and wind up constantly fiddling with their portfolios.   To maintain a disciplined attitude, you must look past short-term volatility and concerns and focus on the market's long-term growth potential.  Morgan Housel, in his book “The Psychology of Money”, modifies a quote from the great Napoleon while talking about investing:   "A good definition of an investing genius is the man or woman who can do the average thing when all those around are going crazy."  Keep the above mistakes and the quote in mind if you want to get the most out of your investment in the United States. FAQs What are some common mistakes to avoid when investing in the US stock market? Here are some common mistakes to avoid when investing in the US stock market: Lack of investment goals and a time horizon Blindly following trends and investing randomly Violating LRS regulations and not consulting your CA in terms of taxes Over diversification and investing in multiple stocks Being impatient and over-monitoring the markets What are 5 mistakes investors make? The most common mistake that investors make are: An attempt to time the market and wait for the right time to invest, Try active trading Misunderstanding financial markers and performance details, Working alone or choosing the wrong investment advisor Not attempting to understand the tax dynamics and liabilities What is the golden rule of investing? The golden rule of investing is greater the risk, the greater the returns! A bonus rule is always to consult your financial advisor before investing your money in any scheme. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you  TALK TO AN EXPERT

If you want to make the life of your child safe, secure, and rewarding, start investing INR 500 every month for the child as early as possible, say financial experts. Even a small amount of INR 500 will go a long way in creating a solid financial corpus if it is backed by good planning and a strong investment vehicle.  The right kind of investment is of utmost importance because it will safeguard the future interest of the child and lessen his financial burden. Best investment plan to invest INR 500 every month for the child Planning an investment of INR 500 every month for a child is a huge thing; hence investors need to consider many factors before finalizing the perfect investment vehicle.  1. Systematic Investment Plan or SIP Invest INR 500 every month for the child in mutual funds with the help of SIP, as the small amount will keep on adding and compounding to create a very large financial corpus. SIPs are one of the best vehicles because it encourages investing and saving consistently in a disciplined manner.  Start as early as possible because it will provide a large window for the fund to accumulate. For example, if the investment period is 20 years and the expected rate of return is 10% per annum, then a monthly sum of INR 500 can result in nearly INR 3,82,848.  Invest through the Edufund App, as it offers a choice from 4000+ direct mutual funds. It is easy to start and stop a SIP anytime you desire.  2. Direct Equity For investors who are not afraid to take high risks, the amount of INR 500 can be used to buy direct equity. Choose growth stocks as they will yield better returns (in the average range of 50%) than average equity, which is expected to yield a return between 13% - 15%. Remember, patience is the key to growth equity, and you have to remain invested for the long term to get solid returns.  3. Public Provident Fund (PPF) The PPF investments are for investors that do not want to take risks and are looking for safe investment vehicles. With a 7.1% interest rate, PPF is a long-term tax-saving investment scheme that can be opened in a bank or a post office.  4. Recurring Deposit Account The interest rate on recurring deposits is nearly 6.5% to 6.9% depending on the bank. The RD account can be opened in a bank or a post office where an investment of INR 500 will keep on accumulating and earning interest throughout the investment period. The RD account is for investors who want to keep their money in a safe environment and simultaneously earn some money. 5. Child Insurance Plans  Child Insurance Plans are some of the best vehicles to invest INR 500 every month for a child. There are child life insurance plans that can be paid on a monthly basis.  With an amount of INR 500, you can buy a term insurance plan that offers high death benefits.  Child investment plans are very advantageous because if in some cases the policyholder dies then the future premiums are waived. The insurance company then keeps on investing the premium amount on behalf of the policyholder, and the amount is given to the child as per the terms and conditions of the policy. Examples of child insurance policies with a premium under INR 500 per month are SBI Life’s Term Insurance Plan, where the minimum premium is only INR 365 per month, and the ABSLI DigiShield Plan, with a minimum premium of INR 477 per month.  If you have a girl child, then there are also several investment schemes just for the girl child. The government-backed scheme Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana was introduced specially to save the future of a girl child. You can invest INR 500 per month and the amount is payable after the maturity period of 21 years.  6. Stocks & ETFs Although stocks are considered risky, they have an advantage over some of the investment options, like recurring deposit accounts, because of high returns over a long period. ETFs are also high return cost-effective investment vehicles through which the investor can invest in entire sectors.  Conclusion Take a leap of faith and start the journey to invest INR 500 every month for the child because it will go a long way in creating a lump sum amount in later years.  Take the help of the investment experts on the Edufund app to create the best possible personalized financial plan for your child with an amount of INR 500. The strategies are backed by data, research, and appropriate tools like the investment calculator so that you will get better returns on your investment, and that too in a secure and transparent environment. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

In India, investing is considered a rich man’s game. The common disbelief is that only the rich can invest in stocks and reap the benefits of the market. This is far from the truth. Investments and investing in stocks are possible for everyone.   But before you start buying stocks, you should conduct in-depth research, evaluate the stock's fundamentals, and determine whether it fits in your portfolio.  As an investor, you should conduct the appropriate research since when you purchase a stock in a firm, you also become a shareholder in that business.  5 things to know before investing in stocks  1. Time horizon   Originally, you need to decide the time horizon before buying a stock as it plays a pivotal part in deciding whether to buy that stock or not. Your investing time horizon can be short-term, middle-term, or long-term, grounded on your fiscal pretensions.  Short Term - A short-term time horizon is any investment that you're planning to enjoy for or under one year. However, also it's stylish to invest in stable blue-chip stocks which pay tips. If you’re planning to buy a stock and hold it for under a time. The companies have a good balance distance and there are smaller pitfalls involved.   Medium Term - A medium-term investment is an investment that you want to hold from one time to 10 times. For middle-term investing one should invest in quality arising requests stocks and stocks having a moderate position of threat.   Long Term - Eventually, long-term investments are any investment that you're planning to hold onto for further than 10 times. These investments have time to recover if the commodity goes wrong and can induce a significant return.  2. Investment strategy  Prior to purchasing a stock, it is crucial to research several investing techniques and select the one that best fits your investing philosophy.  The three main categories of methods utilized by the most prosperous investors are listed below:  Value Investing: Value investing is the practice of purchasing discounted stocks with the intention of making profits. Warren Buffett employs this tactic to generate enormous riches.  Growth investing: It is the practice of purchasing shares of companies that have outperformed the market in terms of sales and profits. Growth investors think that the upward trends in these equities will persist and present a chance for profit-making.  Income Investing: Lastly, investors need to search for high-quality stocks that offer sizable dividends. These dividends produce money that can be spent or reinvested to boost future earnings potential. Consequently, you should think about the approach that works well with that investment style before purchasing a stock.  3. Check fundamentals before buying a stock   Some of the most important rates to consider before buying a stock   Price-to-Earnings rate (P/ E rate): The p/ E rate compares the stock’s price with the company’s earnings per share(EPS). For illustration, if a company is trading at Rs. 20 per share that produces EPS of Rs. 1 annually, also its P/ E rate is 20 which means that the share price is 20 times the company’s earnings on a periodic basis.   Debt-to-Equity rate: The debt-to-equity rate helps in determining how much the company is in debt. High situations of debt are bad as it signals ruin.   Price-to-Book-Value rate (P/ B rate): The p/ B rate compares the stock’s price to the net value of means that are possessed by the company, and is also divided by the number of outstanding shares.  4. Size of the company   How much risk you are willing to face when purchasing a stock is greatly influenced by the size of the company you are thinking about investing in.  Therefore, before purchasing a stock, it's critical to evaluate the company's size in relation to your risk tolerance and time horizon.  5. History of dividends  Stocks that pay dividends to investors are known for sharing a portion of their profits with them.  Investors who use the income investing approach ought to aim to buy shares of these dividend-paying companies.  If an investor wants to make money from their investments, they should research the company's dividend history before purchasing its stock.  The company's dividend yield, which is expressed as a percentage, is something income investors should look at if they want a high level of income relative to the stock price.  Conclusion  Make sure you purchase the greatest firms before you purchase any stocks to add to your portfolio. No matter how soliciting the stock request may feel, it’s suggested to do your disquisition before investing any amount of capital. It’s vital to educate yourself about the basics of the request first. Learn the languages associated with online trading and investing. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The economic impact of Covid-19 has kept Indian and global markets volatile. Markets can trade at higher valuations and drop suddenly without investors realizing it.   This has caused a lot of confusion among investors about how to protect their investment portfolios.  With markets still unpredictable, experts suggest it's the right time to invest in overseas equities like the U.S., especially for investors looking to manage risk through diversification.  Market experts suggest investing in U.S. stocks through Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and Funds of Funds (FoFs). So how can you invest in U.S. stocks through a mutual fund?  Read on, to know about U.S. stock mutual funds. What are the mutual fund options to invest in U.S. stocks? 1. Actively managed international mutual funds  International equity mutual funds are the funds that invest a subsequent portion of their total amount in U.S. equities; meanwhile, maintaining some portion focused on Indian equities can be an ideal choice for fresh investors who want to have exposure to the U.S. stock market.   2. ETFs and FoFs  Barring exposure to the U.S. stock markets, Exchange-traded funds and Funds of Funds can provide diversification benefits to the investor's portfolio looking for portfolio stability. ETFs track an underlying index, providing an organized and transparent investment approach while providing exposure to foreign markets. Fund of funds invests in several other mutual funds and allows investors to benefit from exposure to various investments with minimal investment amount. ETFs or FoFs are the cost-effective mode of investment to gain exposure to the U.S. market.  3. Index mutual funds  These funds are passively managed funds and track a specific index from the U.S. stock market. These funds replicate the composition of an index and try to match the returns generated by the same index while charging a low expense ratio.  Benefits of investing in U.S. stocks  Many investors ask why they invest in U.S. stocks when many Indian stocks offer high growth. Let's discuss some benefits of investing in U.S. stocks: Portfolio diversification: By investing in U.S. stocks, an investor can broaden & diversify the overall investment portfolio across the U.S. economy. This helps in mitigating any India-specific economic risks.  The benefit of dollar appreciation: In 2011, the USD-INR exchange rate stood at about Rs. 47. And today, it is around Rs. 82. This indicates that an investor who has invested in the U.S. stock market could have gained 36% by simply taking advantage of the currency appreciation. This gain is apart from the gains that could be made from the U.S. stock market.  Higher returns possibility through international exposure: Compared to the Indian stock market, the trends in the U.S. market have reflected comparatively lower volatility. The former has also provided higher returns on a currency-adjusted basis.  Exposure to companies with higher growth potential: The U.S. market is considered a leader compared to other international markets due to technological innovation, pharmaceutical advancements, and industrial expansion. Investing in U.S. stocks allows Indian investors to benefit from many innovative and high-potential companies.  Who invests in U.S. Stocks through Mutual funds?  Investing in U.S. equities through mutual funds is ideal for investors who:  Are seeking to attain diversification by widening their portfolio's geographical exposure  Want to gain international stock market exposure but at lower risk levels  Seeking higher gains beyond what domestic markets could provide  Have a longer investment horizon and higher risk appetite  Mutual funds help reduce the overall risk that can arise from exposure to the U.S. stock market, but investors should be aware that equity investments carry the risk of loss.  Factors to consider when investing in International mutual funds Investors should be aware of the following risks and tax considerations associated with investing in international mutual funds.  Every international fund has some common risks that investors must be prepared to take while investing in these to gain exposure to U.S. stocks. These are:  Exchange rate risk  Foreign market risk  Concentration risk  Investors must also remember that any returns from international fund investments attract taxes in India. Some points to note here are:  Any dividends of more than Rs. 5,000 from these funds attract TDS at 7.5% for resident investors.  Long-term capital gains tax at 20% is applicable on returns from units redeemed after staying invested for three years.   Short-term capital gains tax is applied per an individual's tax slab for returns from fund units that are redeemed before the completion of 3 years.  Conclusion  The pandemic has forced the world to adopt a new normal in many ways: how we invest, spend, and think about saving. Investors are now focused on keeping their available capital safe. At the same time, more investors are more willing to take risks when working internationally with their portfolios. What better way to explore international markets than to invest in U.S. stocks easily through mutual funds? Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

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

If you want to invest in the US stock market to benefit from US stocks, you may start by opening an international trading account in India. But before investing in US equities, here are the 5 important things to know before investing in US stocks. 1. Regulatory framework One of the oldest, most effective, transparent, and well-regulated stock markets in the world is the one in the United States. On US stock markets are listed some of the largest businesses in terms of market capitalization, sales, and profitability. The worldwide exposure and flavor that US markets offer are crucial since many of these listed firms have a significant global presence, scale, and operational structure. The regulatory body that monitors the operation of the US stock markets is the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which was founded in 1934. It guarantees the strict application of laws and rules that establish the highest standards of openness and integrity—essential for stock markets as well as for the safety and trust of investors. 2. Impact of Foreign Exchange  The volatility in the value of the US and other currencies should be taken into account while investing in US equities. This is because before any gain (or loss) for an Indian investment is realized, it would be converted using the appropriate exchange rate in the Indian rupee. The gains (or losses) will fluctuate in lockstep with changes in the exchange rate. An Indian investor must be aware that the exchange rate can be unpredictable and is influenced by a wide range of political, economic, and supply and demand variables. 3. Liberalized Remittance Scheme According to the Reserve Bank of India's Liberalized Remittance Scheme, an individual may invest up to $ 250000 per year in US equities from India (LRS). The cap covers any money sent abroad for purchases, travel, education, or other international transactions during the year. The investor's brokerage account has to be filled before making any investments in US equities. Investors must complete Form A-2, which is available from RBI-authorized dealers. Any sum over the $250000 cap requires RBI approval. Additional read: US stocks for investing in child education 4. Taxation To make your efforts worthwhile, it is crucial to take into account the tax consequences of your international assets. Due to the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between the US and India, the same income cannot be taxed twice on investments made in the US stock market. 5. Dividend tax The dividends from US stocks are taxed at a fixed rate of 30% for overseas investors. However, as a result of the tax agreement between the US and India, citizens of India pay a 25% tax rate (deducted before distribution). However, because of the double tax avoidance agreement between the US and India, the tax paid in the US may be claimed as a foreign tax credit in your domestic filing. 6. Capital gains tax Your assets in the US are not subject to capital gains tax. However, India requires you to pay tax on your overseas capital gains. This may be divided into two groups.: Long-term capital gain (LTCG)If you keep the equities for more than 24 months before realizing capital gains, you will be subject to indexation advantages and a 20% tax rate in addition to any relevant fees and other surcharges. Short-term capital gain (STCG)Standard income-tax regulations apply to any gains from assets held for less than 24 months, and they are added to your ordinary taxable income. You must also take into account the recently implemented Tax Credited at Source or TCS. Under the new regulations, a 5% TCS will be applied to all international transfers over INR 7 Lakhs in a fiscal year. It is not an additional expenditure to deduct this advance tax when submitting your taxes each year. Charges on US stock-broking account  Using an Indian stock brokerage account to invest in the US stock market is prohibited. You would need to create one with a US stock brokerage company instead. To provide this service, the majority of Indian stock brokers who allow you to invest in US equities typically collaborate with a US stockbroker. You would also be required to pay certain fees for a US stock broking account, just like you would for an Indian trading account. This is something you should also take into consideration when you buy US stocks because these fees can reduce your earnings. These fees include Annual Maintenance Costs, brokerage charges, bank charges, transaction charges, and more. Invest in the US stocks with EduFund  Download the EduFund app and create an account to start investing in US stocks. With zero charges and no hassle account opening process from the comfort of your home, you can start investing in FAANG stocks in your portfolio to geographically diversify your portfolio!! Thus, investing in US firms and equities may give investors access to the worldwide market, credibility, and an opportunity to increase their wealth. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

What makes a good investment option? Many components could affect your investment decision, like liquidity, size of the investment, goal of investment, the horizon of investment, etc. Top 10 investment ideas for child education 1. Direct stock investment Passive investing may not be everyone's fit, as it is a risky type of asset with no certainty of profit. In addition, it is not only tricky to select the appropriate stock but also difficult to time your entry and exit. The only bright spot is that stocks have been able to outperform all other asset classes in terms of asset price returns for a long time. 2. Equity mutual funds Equity investors primarily invest in stocks. An equity mutual fund scheme should invest a minimum of 65% of its assets in equities and equity derivatives as per the Securities and Exchange Act of India (Sebi) Mutual Fund Rules. An investment company can be controlled directly or indirectly. 3. Debt mutual funds Debt mutual funds are suitable for low-risk or risk-averse investors. Bond/Debt funds generally invest in fixed-income asset classes such as government bonds, corporate debt, treasury bills (T-bills), as well as other alternative investments. The returns are easy to predict, and the investment does not face much volatility. 4. National pension scheme (NPS) The Pension Capital Market Development Authority administers the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and Long Term Investment Program for Pensioners (PFRDA). The annual payment required to keep the NPS Tier-1 fund active has been reduced from Rs 6,000 to Rs 1,000. It consists of a combination of stocks, certificates of deposit, debt securities, liquid money, and public money, among others. You can decide on how much risk you want to factor into your risk tolerance overall. 5. Public Provident Fund (PPF) Since PPFs have a maturity of 15 years, the effect of compounding tax-free interest is significant, especially in later years. In addition, since a state guarantee secures the returns and investing money, it is a safe investment. It is worth recalling that the government reviews the interest rate on the PPF every quarter. Additional read: Mutual funds for child education 6. Fixed Deposits with the bank (FDs) In India, a fixed deposit (FD) account is considered a better investment option than an equity or mutual fund. Effective February 4, 2020, every depositor in the bank is covered up to a total of 5 lakh rupees for both principal and interest as per the guidelines of the Bank Protection and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC). 7. Senior citizens savings plan (SCSS) Senior Citizens' Saving Scheme (SCSS) is a government-backed pension scheme. Senior citizens resident in India can invest a lump sum in the scheme, individually or jointly, and access regular income along with tax benefits. Any person over 60 can apply for SCSS through a postal or commercial bank. SCSS has 5 periods which can be extended for another 3 years if the program develops. The total capital limit is Rs 15 lakh, and many accounts can be opened. SCSS money is taxed and billed on a fixed schedule. It should be mentioned that the property interest rate is subject to frequent reviews and adjustments. Additional read: Best sip plans for child education 8. Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yo PMVVY is a program for older adults age 65 and over that guarantees a 7.4% annual return. The scheme provides pension contributions which can usually be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on the option chosen. The lowest pension payment is Rs 1000 per month, and the highest retirement payment is Rs 9250 every month. The plan allows a total investment of 15 lakhs. The program is valid for 10 years. The validity of program is valid until March 31, 2023. The invested amount will be returned to the elderly person when he becomes elderly. The amount will be issued to the applicant in the event of the death of the senior citizen. 9. Real Estate The place you live in is for personal use and would never be considered a business. If you don't really plan to live there, the family property you are buying can serve as an investment. The location is one of the most critical aspects in determining the value of a home, along with the rental income it can generate. Real estate investments provide profits in 2 directions: holding value and rental income. Besides, real estate investments are costly compared to other investment vehicles. Another significant risk is obtaining adequate regulatory approvals, which has largely been resolved since the arrival of the Real Estate Investment Authority. 10. Gold investment Owning gold in ornaments creates its own problems, including increased efficiency and lower costs. Then there are "production fees", which typically range from 6% to 14% of the gold price. People who want to get digital gold still have a better choice as these charges are not applicable to digital gold. Conclusion There are numerous investment options are available in the financial world. But which one suits your profile is the question. The equity mutual fund scheme as an asset class has outperformed all the other classes and if you want to invest in digital gold or mutual funds, but do not have any idea, how to choose the fund. Then, you can schedule a call with the EduFund advisory team. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Parents responsible for arranging the necessary funds to provide higher education to their children are constantly on the lookout for new investment opportunities. It is important to add some of the best US stocks to your portfolio as they are profitable and have the proficiency for higher returns.  The top US stocks can prove to be big-time winners. The companies have shown themselves as capable and adaptable entities even during disruptions like Covid-19 and adverse market and economic conditions. They boast solid track records, strong fundamentals, high potential, and great profit returns. Best US stocks for Investing in 2022 1. Amazon With annual revenues and net income of $121.234 billion and $11.607 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022, Amazon (AMZN) is one of the best US stocks in the world.  The multinational company formed by Jeff Bezos has its fingers in several industries like cloud computing, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and digital streaming.  2. Microsoft Corporation Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, Microsoft (MSFT) is associated with the information technology industry. The public company traded on Nasdaq has several subsidiaries to its name like GitHub, LinkedIn, and Skype.  The $2.38 trillion market cap company boasts annual revenues and net income of $198.270 billion and $72.738 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 10.300% and 27.412% respectively.  Additional read: Investing in international stocks 3. Alphabet Inc.  The holding company Alphabet Inc. (GOOG) is a technology conglomerate with revenues and net income of $278.139 billion and $72.016 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. Product lines include YouTube, Google Ventures, Google Search, Android Etc.  With a market capitalization in trillions, it is one of the best US stocks to buy because of sure and safe returns.  4. Apple Inc  Apple (AAPL) is a multinational tech company with innovative products (Apple Watch, Mac, iPhone) and services (Apple Music, iCloud, App Store) in its portfolio. As of June 2022, it is the biggest company in the world in terms of market capitalization which crossed $3 trillion.  Apple registered its revenues and net income of $387.542 billion and $99.633 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 12.907% and 32.407% respectively. Additional read: What are blue-chips stocks? 5. Nvidia Corp Nvidia (NVDA), a software and fabless company is a global leader in software, hardware, and artificial intelligence. It recorded revenues of $26.91 billion for the fiscal year 2021-22. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 39.858% and 65.733% respectively.  The public company is listed in the NASDAQ 100 and pays dividends four times every year. As cloud computing is in high demand across various industries the growth potential for higher returns is extremely positive.  6. Tesla Inc.  Tesla Inc. (TSLA), a public company traded on NASDAQ is associated with the designing and manufacturing of sustainable energy ecosystems and all-electric vehicles. The company crossed the market cap of $1 trillion in October 2021 and shows a remarkable trend of higher upward movement.  Tesla registered its revenues and net income of $67.166 billion and $9.516 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 20.403% and 47.215% respectively. 7. Mastercard Mastercard (MA), listed in the S&P 500 Index and traded as Class A on the New York Stock Exchange, is associated with financial services. The multinational corporation registered its revenues and net income of $20.865 billion and $9.699 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. Mastercard offers its services to 210 countries all over the world (except Russia) through its debit, credit, and prepaid cards.  The company is known to process an estimated 3.6 trillion transactions every year. Mastercard is a favorite of investors as it has a dividend yield of 0.47% and distributes them consistently to loyal stockholders every quarter of every year.  If you are wondering where to buy the best US stocks then always choose a secured platform or credible investment counselors.  The wealth experts on the Edufund App offer solid recommendations to parents about the best US stocks to buy and fund their child’s higher education. They provide the opportunity for fractional investing as well as to own a piece of a global US company through transparent and secure means.  Investing across borders to create wealth for your child’s higher education is easy with no hidden charges, no commission, or brokerage fees to disrupt your equilibrium hence sign up and start earning returns in dollars! Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

International investing has become an essential part of the portfolio. Adding international funds/stock provides diversification to the portfolio and helps capture the returns from the growing stock market worldwide. Benefits of International Investing 1. Diversification One of the apparent reasons for investing globally is the diversification of the portfolio. When you invest globally, the investment correlation reduces in the portfolio. In simple words, the dependency on the returns on one market reduces.  Many US-listed companies have operations and revenues at a global level, and these companies are market leaders worldwide. Investing in these companies could provide good exposure to the portfolio. 2. Currency hedge Investing overseas will help your portfolio hedge against the depreciating currency. For example, INR against the US Dollar has depreciated by 3.5-5% over the last few years. Another reason for investing globally could be if you are planning to send your child for higher education abroad, you should always consider investing in the international market to hedge your portfolio against currency appreciation or depreciation. Investing in the global market protects the portfolio from currency depreciation. Additional read: What are international funds? 3. Opportunity Investment opportunity at the global level is immense and can be grabbed only through investing internationally. Economics doesn't grow at the same time and at the same pace. Still, if any economy is growing at a faster rate, then investors could benefit from these growing economies by investing directly or through international funds. Investing globally opens many gates; you can choose from various themes and sectors to invest in and even choose the region for investing. As for technology, you can invest in the US market, and for Engineering, you can consider investing in the Europe market. 4. Fraction buying Unlike in India, you can buy shares in a fraction of the US market. You can buy a fraction of a company's share, trading at $2000. Fractional buying makes the investment more affordable and accessible. So, if you have only Rs 1000/- to invest, you can do that easily. For example, if you want to buy an Apple Inc. share which is currently valued at 160 USD, but you don’t have enough amount to buy one share of the company, then, in that case, you can buy a fraction of the company's share with Rs 2500 also which will USD 30 approx. 5. Lower or managed risk Investing in the international market help to reduce the risk of the portfolio. Every country has a different macro-economy and policies. Developed countries relatively have low risk than developing economies. Spreading your investments in the developed economy could help you to generate better risk-adjusted returns. Conclusion Investing in the international market will help you diversify your portfolio and capture the new investment opportunity globally, but it also comes with risk factors. Always evaluate the risk-to-reward ratio before investing. If you don’t know where to invest and how to invest, download the EduFund app for android and iOS and scheduled a call for free with the experts. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The phrase "metaverse" refers to a new virtual space arising as technology improves. It's an idea that traces its origins to 1992 when Neal Stephenson published his dystopian novel "Snow Crash," which featured characters who used 3D headgear to visit another reality. On the face, this appears to be nothing new, yet the Metaverse is expected to be a completely new approach for us to engage with the internet, known as Web 3.0.   The Metaverse is a mix of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and three-dimensional digital worlds. The underlying concept is to give the internet a perception of presence - imagine 3D avatars and synced virtual places that everybody can share. With augmented reality glasses, you could, for example, visit a friend's virtual residence in the Metaverse or watch digital concerts and conferences.   Several large IT corporations have jumped on the metaverse bandwagon, though their perspectives vary. Facebook and other social media corporations are among the most vocal advocates today, believing that the innovation will alter how many of us socialize by the end of this century. To symbolize its devotion to the Metaverse, Facebook changed its name to Meta. The Metaverse's ambitions aren't limited to escapism and creating communal encounters. Microsoft believes that the Metaverse can make remote work more personal through Microsoft Teams. Meanwhile, video game producers like Epic Games seek to create distinct worlds that go beyond what is conceivable in the actual world. Finally, proponents of decentralized technologies assert that they can permit digital ownership and complete virtual economies.   The Metaverse offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to invest. As per Bloomberg, the Metaverse's worldwide economic potential might reach $800 billion by 2024. According to Matthew Ball, CEO of Epyllion, a venture financing firm, the Metaverse is an opportunity with a lot of zeros behind it. Even if your expectations are lower, precedent from the digital economy, the internet, and mobile internet says this is a $10 [trillion] to $30 trillion opportunity that will materialize in a decade or decade and a half.   There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to investing in the Metaverse. Albeit, there are three methods for investors to get a piece of the $30 trillion pie. Additional read: How to invest in Snapchat from India? 1. Going the head-on way  Using Metaverse crypto or Metaverse cryptocurrencies, one can invest in both cryptocurrencies and the Metaverse at the same time. Decentraland (MANA), Sandbox (SAND), and Enjin are some Metaverse tokens (Enj). To invest in Metaverse in India, go to any significant crypto exchange and acquire the tokens directly. To make cash, one can exchange such assets throughout the Metaverse, earn things and services, and then redeem them in the real world. On the other hand, directly purchasing NFTs and other assets entails significant risks and volatility. Purchasing virtual land or real estate in the Metaverse is another way to invest directly in the Metaverse.   2. Investing through individual stocks with metaverse exposure   Equities of publicly traded companies participating in the Metaverse domain can likewise be used to invest in the Metaverse indirectly. The majority of the prominent companies in this field are currently listed in the United States. These could be businesses that engage in Metaverse-related activities or supply products, services, technology, or technological skills. While some companies, such as Meta, are working on high-end VR headsets, others, such as Nvidia, are working on the computational power that will power the Metaverse. Cloud service companies such as Amazon and Microsoft will play a part in the Metaverse because it will be housed in the cloud.   On the other hand, individual stock purchases will necessitate greater initial and ongoing analysis.   3. Investing in convenience  As Metaverse is still in its infancy, it's challenging to grasp the Metaverse's and enterprises' business models. As a beginner, you can invest in the Metaverse through ETFs such as the Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF, which gives you exposure to companies that develop Metaverse infrastructure (like Nvidia), gaming engines that create virtual worlds (like Roblox), and leaders in content, commerce, and social media for the Metaverse (like Tencent). Nvidia Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Meta Platforms Inc., Roblox Corporation, Tencent Holdings Limited, and Unity Software Inc. are among the fund's top holdings. The Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF had 45 holdings and seven nations in its portfolio. The median market capitalization of these 45 holdings is $68 billion.  Put another way, the typical company held by this ETF will be successful and well-established. While these equities will have metaverse connections, there's a fair probability they'll also have very profitable core operations that will support metaverse research and development. If you opt to invest in ETFs, you may rest easy.   It's crucial to realize that Metaverse investments aren't for everyone. Furthermore, having a significant concentration of assets in stocks of Metaverse-related companies can be dangerous. When investing in the Metaverse, one must consider risk tolerance and the value it will add to the portfolio! Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Snapchat has grown very popular amongst Indians in general due to the nature of how it functions! Snapchat is swiftly becoming one of the most popular social media platforms on the Internet. Undergraduates originally designed it at Stanford University in the United States to enable the instant sharing of photographs and movies. It was previously known as Snapfish. Millions of individuals have posted millions of posts and received millions of messages since the app's introduction in 2021. This is partly because it employs a sophisticated algorithm for determining what the user wants to see and what they do not.   People are concerned that Snapchat will face significant competition from smaller social media businesses such as Hootsuite and Facebook, which explains why the Snapchat stock has plummeted thus far. Analysts who follow social and digital media are crossing their fingers that Snapchat will avoid the same fate. The concern that Snapchat will forfeit the battle to these two behemoths is also fuelling the slide in stock prices.   Some predict a comeback in Snapchat shares since consumers enjoy sharing snaps with their friends and family. Facebook and MySpace might be used to make the same point. Analysts believe there is a significant possibility to profit from the advantages that Snapchat may provide investors.  Additional read: How to invest in Zoom from India?  Let's first look at some basic stuff associated with the company. Latest market close $33.26 52-week range 24.32 - 83.34 Dividend yield  NA Earnings per share  $-0.23 Beta 1.14 Market Capitalization $ 53.148 billion Average Volume (3m) 32,658,402 PE ratio  -  There are three ways in which you can invest in Snapchat from India   1. The direct way   You can trade in Snapchat from India by registering on a US brokerage account using technological platforms that provide this service or through a foreign brokerage with a direct presence in India. To start with this, you only need your PAN card and proof of address.   Snapchat's share price was the US $33.26 on January 14, 2022, which is over 2500 rupees. However, the premium price of Snapchat shares should not stop you from investing in them because some platforms allow you to participate in fractional shares. With $1, you can buy a part of a Snapchat stock and own a piece of the corporation.   2. The ETF way   One way to invest in Snapchat stocks from India is through an exchange-traded fund (ETF). ETFs are a grouping of stocks and bonds traded as a single fund. They're comparable to mutual funds in that they're invested in a pool of money. ETFs, on the other hand, are exchanged on the stock exchange and offer a simple and inexpensive way to gain access to a category of market or a group of companies. Buying an ETF via a platform is one way to invest in ETFs.   For example, you can invest in the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) and Global X social media ETF (SOCL), which contains Snapchat as one of its holdings.   Another option for investing in Snapchat stocks from India is to purchase ETFs that invest in Snapchat. You don't need to create a US brokerage account to invest in these ETFs. However, tracking errors in these ETFs may influence your returns.   3. The Mutual fund way   In this case, you will be investing in funds of funds, a domestic mutual fund that invests in a mutual fund available in the United States. Since the investment would be made in Indian rupees, there is no investment restriction. Snapchat is included in several mutual funds, such as the Edelweiss' US Technology Fund of Fund but only to a minimal level. Furthermore, this strategy may prove to be more costly. An annual expense ratio will be required of you. The expense ratio of these funds is typically greater, as it includes an additional expenditure levied by the core global schemes they invest in, in addition to the usual India fund administration fee.   A note of caution here is to remember to evaluate your risk profile before purchasing any investment. Directly investing in equities like Snapchat would be a greater risk strategy for your portfolio.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Zoom Video Communications needs no introduction, especially now that the COVID-19 epidemic has arrived. People began working from their houses when the lockdown was imposed. Most of it happened over a Zoom video conference, whether a corporate meeting or your child's online education. This company's product effectively brought people from all over the world together. Eric Yuan founded Zoom Video Communications as a software start-up in 2011. Eric is the current CEO, and the company is based in California, United States. It is known for providing services like video calling and online chat services via cloud-based peer-to-peer software. As of 2021, the total number of employees is 4422. Salesforce took almost one and a half decades after going public to reach a market capitalization of $100 billion, but Zoom Video Communications took just 14 months. Zoom recently paid $14.7 billion for Five9, a NASDAQ-listed software company specializing in cloud contact centers. Zoom is one of the North American region's top 25 highest-value technology companies.   Additional read: How to invest in Netflix from India? Zoom is one of the few stocks that should be included in every investor's portfolio. Let's first look at some basic stuff before we proceed. Latest market close $109.18 52-week range 108.43 - 406.21 Dividend yield  NA Earnings per share  $4.49 Beta - Market Capitalization $ 24.902 billion Average Volume (3m) 4,317,874 PE ratio  24.24  There are three ways in which you can invest in Zoom from India.   1. The direct way   You can trade in Zoom from India by registering on a US brokerage account using technological platforms that provide this service or through a foreign brokerage with a direct presence in India. To start with this, you only need your PAN card and proof of address.   Zoom's share price was the US $108.6 on March 03, 2022, which is over eight thousand rupees. However, the premium price of Zoom shares should not stop you from investing in them because some platforms allow you to participate in fractional shares. With just $1, you can buy a part of a Google stock and own a piece of the corporation.   2. The ETF way   One way to invest in Zoom stocks from India is through an exchange-traded fund (ETF). ETFs are a grouping of stocks and bonds traded as a single fund. They're comparable to mutual funds in that they're invested in a pool of money. ETFs, on the other hand, are exchanged on the stock exchange and offer a simple and inexpensive way to gain access to a category of market or a group of companies. Buying an ETF via a platform is one way to invest in ETFs.   For example, you can invest in the ProShares Ultra QQQ (QLD) and ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK), which contains Zoom as one of its holdings.   Another option for investing in Zoom stocks from India is to purchase ETFs that invest in US markets. You don't need to create a US brokerage account to invest in these ETFs. However, tracking errors in these ETFs may influence your returns.   3. The Mutual fund way   In this case, you will be investing in funds of funds, a domestic mutual fund that invests in a mutual fund available in the United States. Since the investment would be made in Indian rupees, there is no investment restriction. Zoom is included in several mutual funds, such as the Edelweiss' US Technology Fund of Fund but only to a minimal level. Furthermore, this strategy may prove to be more costly. An annual expense ratio will be required of you. The expense ratio of these funds is typically greater, as it includes an additional expenditure levied by the core global schemes they invest in, in addition to the usual India fund administration fee. A note of caution here is to remember to evaluate your risk profile before purchasing any investment. Directly investing in equities like Zoom would be a greater risk strategy for your portfolio. Investing by convenience, i.e., via ETFs As Metaverse is still in its infancy, it's challenging to grasp the Metaverse's and enterprises' business models. As a beginner, you can invest in the Metaverse through ETFs such as the Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF, which gives you exposure to companies that develop Metaverse infrastructure (like Nvidia), gaming engines that create virtual worlds (like Roblox), and leaders in content, commerce, and social media for the Metaverse (like Tencent). Nvidia Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Meta Platforms Inc., Roblox Corporation, Tencent Holdings Limited, and Unity Software Inc. are among the fund's top holdings. The Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF had 45 holdings and seven nations in its portfolio. The median market capitalization of these 45 holdings is $68 billion. Put another way, the typical company held by this ETF will be successful and well-established. While these equities will have metaverse connections, there's a fair probability they'll also have very profitable core operations that will support metaverse research and development. If you opt to invest in ETFs, you may rest easy.  It's crucial to realize that Metaverse investments aren't for everyone. Furthermore, having a significant concentration of assets in stocks of Metaverse-related companies can be dangerous. When investing in the Metaverse, one must consider risk tolerance and the value it will add to the portfolio!   Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT