Author: Shehnaz Beig

Investing in mutual funds has become a popular way to build wealth over time. However, choosing between index funds and active funds can be challenging. Both have unique features, benefits, and risks. This article delves into the intricacies of each to help you make an informed decision. What Are Index Funds? Index funds are mutual funds designed to replicate the performance of a specific market index, such as the Nifty 50 or the S&P 500. They invest in the same securities as the index they track, maintaining the same proportions. This passive investment strategy aims to mirror the market’s performance…

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is set to introduce a settlement scheme targeting stock brokers associated with unauthorised algorithmic (algo) trading platforms. This move aims to address violations of SEBI regulations and promote a fair trading environment. Background: The Rise of Unauthorised Algo Trading Platforms In recent years, the Indian stock market has witnessed a surge in platforms offering algo trading services to retail investors. These platforms, often unregulated, provide automated trading strategies that execute trades based on predefined algorithms. While algo trading can enhance trading efficiency, its misuse or association with unregulated entities poses significant risks…

India’s tax world is buzzing with changes! The New Tax Regime, rolled out on April 1, 2025, has shaken things up for taxpayers. If you’ve been saving taxes with the Old Tax Regime through schemes like Public Provident Fund (PPF), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), and National Pension System (NPS), you’re probably wondering—what now? The new system scraps popular deductions like Section 80C and 80D, leaving many confused. Should you stick with these investments, or ditch them? Experts have some surprising answers! Let’s break it down in simple terms and see why these schemes might still be golden, even without tax…

Imagine sitting at home, sipping chai, and still raking in lakhs of rupees every year. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s not! In 2025, lemon farming is turning heads as one of the easiest and most profitable businesses you can start right from your backyard. Whether you live in a village or a city, this cash crop is a goldmine waiting for you. From educated folks ditching high-paying jobs to farmers looking for extra income, everyone’s jumping on the lemon bandwagon. Why? Because lemons are in demand everywhere—kitchens, juice stalls, markets—and they bring bumper earnings with little effort. Let’s…

It’s March 20, 2025, and India’s social media world is buzzing with a hot topic—Grok, the AI tool on X (once called Twitter), is in big trouble! Made by xAI, a company owned by Elon Musk, Grok has been giving some cheeky and controversial replies about Indian leaders and politics. People asked it questions on X, and instead of playing safe, Grok dished out answers that left many upset. Now, the Government of India is stepping in, asking a big question: Who’s responsible when an AI like Grok messes up? Is it X, the platform hosting it, or someone else?…

Every year, the World Happiness Report tells us which countries are the happiest places to live. In 2025, the list of the top 10 happiest countries is out, and guess what? Finland is number one for the eighth year in a row! This report, made with help from Gallup polls, looks at how people feel about their lives between 2022 and 2024. It’s not just about money or power—things like trust, friends, and feeling safe matter a lot. Nordic countries like Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden are in the top spots again, but big names like America didn’t make it to…

Think filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) is only for people who earn big and pay taxes? Think again! Even if your income is below the taxable limit—like Rs.2.5 lakh or Rs.3 lakh under the old tax system in India—submitting your ITR by July 31 every year can unlock some surprising advantages. It’s not just about paying tax; it’s a powerful financial tool that can save you money, boost your credibility, and open doors for loans, travel, and investments. Experts say everyone should file ITR, no matter how small their income is. Curious why? Let’s explore five fantastic benefits that…

The Government of India has taken a major step to encourage digital payments by approving an incentive scheme for UPI transactions. On March 19, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved a new scheme that will provide incentives on UPI transactions up to ₹2,000, particularly benefiting small traders and businesses. This move aims to increase digital payment adoption and further the vision of a less-cash economy in India. Small Traders to Benefit from UPI Incentives Under this scheme, traders will receive an incentive of 0.15% on UPI transactions up to ₹2,000. The primary beneficiaries will be small merchants who will be encouraged…

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is a big part of how taxes work in India. It’s when a fixed amount gets cut from your income—like salary, rent, or interest—before you get the money. This tax goes straight to the government, managed by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) under the Income Tax Act 1961. But how do you know if the TDS deducted from your earnings is correct or properly credited? Checking your TDS status online is the answer! It helps you stay on top of your taxes, avoid mistakes, and file your Income Tax Return (ITR) without any…

The Indian government is preparing to introduce new tax rules that will significantly expand the powers of income tax officers. From April 1, 2026, tax officials will have the authority to inspect not only physical assets but also digital assets, including emails, social media accounts, online banking, and trading platforms. This move is part of the new Income Tax Bill, which aims to curb tax evasion and increase compliance. New Powers for Tax Officers Under the Income Tax Bill Currently, income tax officials can conduct searches and seize physical assets when tax evasion is suspected. They have the authority to…