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Want to cut risk and tax without compromising on returns?

While equity mutual funds are expected to beat other class of funds in the long term, short-term volatility is unbearable for some investors. For them, balanced funds are a better option because their equity exposure is usually restricted to 65-75%, and the debt portion of 25- 35% lends stability to the fund. “Though the returns from balanced funds will be lower than that of equity funds in the long term, their volatility will also be lower. So, on a risk-adjusted basis, it should give better return on a 5-7 year holding period,” says Vikram Dalal, Managing Director, Synergee Capital Services.

Both equity and debt are expected to do well in the coming years, because the expected decline in interest rate will be good for both asset classes. “Balanced funds make immense sense in periods like this, when both equity and debt are expected to do well,” says Nikhil Kothari, Director and Chief Financial Planner, Etica Wealth Management.

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Common Mistakes You Should Avoid While Investing to Save Tax

tax-return-mistakes-to-avoid

A young married couple walks into the local branch of a private bank on a cloudy, cold weekday of January. Both of them are getting late for office, but have enough time to start a tax-saving fixed deposit (FD).

The bank executive, instead, sells them a ‘better’ product, whose gains are non-taxable, unlike FDs.

The product that he offers is a tax-saving plan that also gives them life cover, guaranteed returns and bonus. And guess what, they can withdraw the money after five years, when they will receive the premium along with added bonus. They think it’s a good deal and write the cheque.
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Why Mutual Funds are better option for beginners?

mutual funds better option for beginner

When considering investment opportunities, the first challenge that almost every investor faces is a plethora of options. From stocks, bonds, shares, money market securities, to the right combination of two or more of these, however, every option presents its own set of challenges and benefits.

So why should investors consider mutual funds over others to achieve their investment goals?

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Here’s What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Bills On Time

You Can’t Pay Your Bills On Time

Not having enough money to pay the bills is an issue we may face from time to time. Life is full of financial ups-and-downs, and after all, we’re all human.

Don’t beat yourself about the situation or get discouraged. Vow to take action. If you don’t make changes, things will stay the same. If you’re in a tough financial spot, here’s what to do when you can’t pay your bills on time, and tips on how to best handle the situation.

1. Don’t Hide From the Facts
Do you know why you can’t pay your bills? Did you overspend, have to make up for an emergency, or was it just human error? Don’t hide from the facts, but instead embrace them head-on. Not dealing with this financial mess can lead to more late fees, higher interest rates, additional interest charges, and even damage your credit report.

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