Author: Naresh Saini

The year 2024 has been a rollercoaster ride for the Indian economy, with geopolitical tensions and general elections causing disruptions in the stock market. As investors set their sights on 2025, the question remains: which sectors will bring in substantial earnings, and where should investments flow? According to Sanjay Chawla, CIO (Equity) at Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund, 2025 holds immense promise with specific sectors standing out as growth engines. Key Themes for 2025 Sanjay Chawla highlights four major themes that will dominate India’s economic landscape: 1. Expansion of the Financial Sector India is rapidly advancing in the digital payment…

The e-Shram scheme, launched by the Government of India in August 2021, aims to improve the lives of unorganized sector workers. This initiative by the Ministry of Labor and Employment provides social security benefits to millions of workers who are not members of EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organization) or ESIC (Employees’ State Insurance Corporation). If you work in the unorganized sector, this scheme could be a significant step toward securing your future. Understanding the e-Shram Portal The e-Shram portal is an online platform designed to register and organize unorganized workers. Once registered, a worker gets access to numerous government benefits…

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) may soon bring good news for millions of employees across India. The central government is exploring ways to strengthen social security for employees after retirement. One significant step under consideration is the option to convert the accumulated Provident Fund (PF) balance into a pension. This initiative aims to provide better financial stability for employees in their old age. If implemented, this new rule could greatly benefit employees, offering them the chance to enjoy higher pensions after retirement. The government is expected to make announcements about this proposal in the upcoming budget. Let’s understand how…

In the early days of the internet, a simple idea had the potential to become a goldmine. This is the story of Chris Clark, an American who proved that thinking ahead can create wealth. In 1994, Chris registered the domain name Pizza.com for just $20 per year. At that time, the internet was a budding concept, and the value of domain names was barely recognized. Yet, Chris had the foresight to invest in what would later become one of the most lucrative deals in the digital world. A $20 Investment That Paid Off Big Chris initially bought Pizza.com to support…

Public Provident Fund (PPF) is one of India’s most trusted and rewarding investment options. It offers safety, steady returns, and multiple financial advantages, making it an excellent choice for risk-averse individuals seeking long-term growth. Let’s explore five significant benefits of investing in PPF that make it a compelling choice for investors. 1. Unparalleled Safety and Guaranteed Returns One of the primary reasons investors choose PPF is its safety. Backed by a sovereign guarantee from the Government of India, the scheme ensures that your money remains secure. This eliminates the risk of losing your investment, a concern commonly associated with market-linked…

Building a home is a monumental task, and every decision, from design to materials, plays a crucial role in creating a space that reflects your vision and meets your needs. Among these decisions, choosing the right flooring material is critical as it significantly impacts both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. When it comes to flooring, the debate between marble and tiles is one that perplexes many homeowners. Both materials have their unique advantages and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you make an informed choice. The Appeal of Marble Flooring Marble has long been a symbol of luxury…

Diamonds have long been symbols of love, prestige, and timeless beauty. Beyond their ornamental appeal, diamonds hold immense potential as a long-term investment. When approached strategically, investing in diamonds can yield significant financial rewards. However, understanding the nuances of this market is essential to maximize returns and avoid common pitfalls. The Dual Nature of Diamonds: Aesthetic and Investment Value Traditionally, diamonds have been associated with personal adornment and emotional value. A sparkling diamond necklace or ring often carries sentimental significance, making people hesitant to part with these treasures. This reluctance to sell diamonds stems from cultural beliefs that selling such…

To empower women financially, the Indian government has launched several beneficial schemes. Among these, the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme (MSSCS) stands out as a unique and secure investment option exclusively for women. This scheme not only provides attractive returns but also includes tax benefits, making it an excellent option for women looking to grow their savings safely. Here’s everything you need to know about this special scheme. What Is the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme? The Mahila Samman Savings Scheme is a government-backed savings scheme designed to encourage women to save and achieve financial security. It offers an attractive…

Investors today are increasingly weighing their options between traditional fixed deposits (FDs) and systematic investment plans (SIPs) in debt mutual funds. While FDs are known for their fixed returns and safety, debt mutual funds are emerging as an attractive alternative with potentially higher returns over the long term. But which one truly works better for your portfolio? Let’s explore. Fixed Deposits: The Trusted Savings Option Fixed deposits are one of the most popular investment options for risk-averse individuals. These are safe and straightforward, offering guaranteed returns at pre-determined interest rates. Currently, most banks in India provide FD rates ranging from…

India is experiencing a rapid transformation in its digital landscape, with over 90 crore smartphone users out of a population of approximately 150 crore. With smartphones comes internet connectivity, creating fertile ground for the digital economy to flourish. However, this growth has been accompanied by a significant rise in digital fraud cases. From financial scams to phishing and fake apps, the risks for users in this expanding digital ecosystem are multiplying daily. Digital India has unlocked immense opportunities for businesses and individuals, but the challenges of cyber fraud threaten this progress. Former Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) advisor, A.K.…