Author: Shehnaz Beig

The stock market is currently going through a sharp correction, leaving investors uncertain. Major indices like Nifty, Sensex, and Bank Nifty have seen a significant dip over the last week. Midcap and Smallcap stocks have suffered the most, raising concerns among retail investors. In sector-wise performance, PSE, Media, Metal, Realty, and Oil & Gas stocks have taken the biggest hit, reflecting the broad-based impact of this correction. Several individual stocks, including RVNL, Suzlon, and JSW Infra, dropped by nearly 20%, deepening investor concerns. What’s Driving the Market Down? The ongoing market correction can be traced to several key factors: Expert…

As Diwali brings light into homes, the stock market can bring growth to your investments. Just as a diya removes darkness, equity lights the way to wealth creation with long-term growth. Though stock markets come with risks due to fluctuations, they are known for delivering high returns over time. Historical trends show that equity remains one of the top-performing asset classes, making it essential for investors aiming for future prosperity. Including equity in your portfolio is like placing a diya at the center of your Diwali celebration—it offers hope, guidance, and growth potential. While the market may experience ups and…

The number of Indian taxpayers, especially millionaires, has seen a remarkable rise over the past decade, reflecting the country’s rapid economic expansion and improved tax system. A new report from SBI Economic Research shows that while millionaire taxpayers numbered only 44,000 in 2013, this figure has soared to 2.2 lakh in the financial year 2024. This trend underlines how India’s economic progress is creating greater wealth and broadening the tax base. Income Tax Collections Outpace Corporate Tax The SBI Economic Research report highlights that personal income tax collections now surpass corporate tax collections, a trend that underscores a broader, wealthier…

Looking for a profitable business idea that doesn’t require a large investment? The incense stick business might be the perfect opportunity, especially with the increase in demand during the festive season. Incense sticks, or agarbattis, are a product consistently in demand for religious ceremonies, festivals, and daily use. With a simple setup, low-cost materials, and government support, you can easily start this business from home and earn steady profits. Why Incense Stick Business? In India, incense sticks are used regularly in homes, temples, and various religious and cultural events. During festivals like Diwali and Chhath, demand soars as people use…

Investing in a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is one of the smartest ways to build wealth over time, especially if you start early. Many people think that only large amounts of money can grow into something substantial. However, even small amounts like Rs.1000 per month can lead to significant wealth creation when invested consistently over the long term. Thanks to the power of compounding, your small investments today can turn into a massive fund of Rs.3 crore by the time you retire. Let’s explore how this works and why SIPs are an ideal option for long-term wealth generation. What is…

Gold prices have been on a steady rise this year, hitting all-time highs 35 times in 2024. So far, the price of gold has surged by 33%, leaving many wondering what’s driving this incredible increase. While various factors contribute to this trend, the most significant reason is the massive gold purchasing by central banks across the globe. Central Banks Lead the Gold Rush Countries like India, China, Türkiye, and Poland are leading the charge in buying gold. The central banks of these nations have been stocking up on gold reserves as a way to diversify their holdings, which is one…

When it comes to financial security, many Indians prefer traditional investments like fixed deposits (FDs), gold, and real estate. However, there’s one investment option that many overlook—mutual funds, especially value funds. These funds, although not as glamorous as stocks or real estate, have shown excellent returns for those who invest with a long-term perspective. Among the various mutual funds available, one fund that has quietly made its investors wealthy over time is the JM Value Fund. Let’s break down how this fund works, its performance, and why it should be part of your financial planning, especially for securing your child’s…

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is proposing a major change to the way US stocks are traded, with plans to extend trading hours on its electronic Arca platform to a near-continuous 22 hours per day. This adjustment aims to cater to the increasing global demand for US stocks, allowing international investors to trade more flexibly across various time zones. The change, however, awaits final approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), with implementation potentially kicking off by 2025. Proposed Trading Hours and Platform Changes The new trading hours on NYSE Arca, the NYSE’s fully electronic trading platform, are…

For generations, gold has been an essential part of Indian culture and economy. As the festive season begins, India’s love for gold shines brightly, with gold purchases increasing, especially around Dhanteras. Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that the country’s gold reserves have risen significantly, reaching $67.444 billion as of October 2024. With nearly 846 tonnes of gold, India is among the largest holders of gold in the world. But did you know a significant part of India’s gold is stored in overseas vaults? Here’s why. Why India’s Gold Reserves Are Stored Overseas India’s central bank, the RBI,…

In an unexpected twist in India’s telecom sector, government-owned BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) has recorded remarkable growth in subscribers over the past two months, emerging as a strong competitor against major private players like Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi). With recent price hikes by these private operators, many customers are opting for BSNL’s budget-friendly plans. Massive Growth in BSNL Subscribers According to recent data from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), BSNL gained approximately 30 lakh new subscribers in July alone. This trend continued into August, with another 25 lakh users joining BSNL. The sharp growth…