Author: Shehnaz Beig
Shehnaz Beig
Shehnaz Ali Siddiqui is a Corporate Communications Expert by profession and writer by Passion. She has experience of many years in the same. Her educational background in Mass communication has given her a broad base from which to approach many topics. She enjoys writing around Public relations, Corporate communications, travel, entrepreneurship, insurance, and finance among others.
In a world dominated by smartphones, internet connections, and digital devices, Green Bank, West Virginia, stands out as a unique town. Known as the quietest town in America, it offers a glimpse into a life untouched by modern technological advancements. This peaceful place operates without Wi-Fi, mobile phones, or any gadgets that emit electromagnetic waves. Why Green Bank Has No Internet or Phones Green Bank lies in the National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ), a specially designated area in the United States that restricts electromagnetic signals. Established in 1958, this zone covers a massive area of 33,000 square kilometers. The primary…
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are reigniting debates about the relevance of Daylight Saving Time (DST) in the United States. Musk has openly criticized the practice, labeling it outdated and harmful, while Ramaswamy has voiced support for replacing it with standard time. As influential voices enter the discussion, the future of DST remains uncertain. The History of Daylight Saving Time Daylight Saving Time, designed to maximize daylight usage, was first introduced in the U.S. in 1918, following the end of World War I. It became official nationwide in the 1960s under the Uniform Time Act. However, the concept dates back…
India’s economic growth slowed significantly in the second quarter of the current financial year, with the GDP growth rate dropping to 5.4%. This is a sharp decline compared to 7.6% in the same period last year and 6.7% in the April-June quarter. Released by the government on Friday, these numbers reflect challenges such as reduced consumption, adverse weather, and inflationary pressures. Economists Predicted the Dip in Growth Economists had already signaled a slowdown for the second quarter. A poll of 17 economists by The Economic Times projected an average GDP growth of 6.5%, driven by weakened urban demand, reduced government…
The popularity of mutual funds in India is growing, with more investors entering the market. In October 2024, equity mutual funds alone received a record investment of ₹41,887 crore, showcasing their appeal among salaried individuals seeking better returns. However, while mutual funds are a great investment option, it’s crucial to understand the tax implications on the profits earned. Tax on Equity Mutual Funds Taxation on equity-oriented schemes depends on the holding period: Tax on Debt Mutual Funds Debt mutual funds are taxed differently: Simplify Tax Payments To manage your taxes efficiently, here are some helpful tips: Stay Tax-Savvy Understanding mutual…
The Indian government has announced a significant upgrade to the PAN card system under the PAN 2.0 project, aiming to make financial transactions and tax compliance easier and more secure. This modernization effort, costing ₹1,435 crore, aligns with the government’s Digital India initiative and aims to transform the current PAN/TAN system into a user-friendly, cyber-secure digital platform. The project received approval during a Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 25 November 2024. Here’s everything you need to know about PAN 2.0, its features, and how it impacts you. Key Highlights of PAN 2.0 Who Will Benefit…
The global conversation on climate change intensified at the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, as developing countries voiced disappointment over inadequate financial support from wealthier nations. The crux of the issue lies in the yawning gap between what is needed and what is being offered to tackle climate challenges. While developing nations like India, Nigeria, and Bolivia are calling for at least $1.3 trillion in climate finance, wealthy countries have pledged only $300 billion by 2035—a sum that is both insufficient and, according to critics, insulting. What Is Climate Finance and Why Is It Crucial? Climate finance refers to the…
Looking for a simple and profitable business idea that you can start with minimal investment? The toy business might be the perfect choice. With a growing demand for Indian-made toys and government support for the industry, now is the best time to explore this opportunity. Whether you’re looking for extra income or a full-time venture, starting small in the toy business can open doors to substantial earnings. Let’s dive into how you can set up and succeed in this business. Why the Toy Industry is Booming India’s toy industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Once dominated by…
For investors seeking consistent returns and a balance between equity and debt, HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund has emerged as a top choice. With impressive returns across the 3, 5, and 10-year periods, this hybrid fund continues to outperform its peers and benchmark indices. Let’s explore what makes it a standout option for long-term investors. Key Features of HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund is an open-ended, dynamically managed hybrid fund. It balances investments between equity and debt, depending on market conditions, offering both stability and growth. Impressive Returns Across Time Frames HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund has consistently delivered…
Recent market turbulence has caused a sharp decline in the performance of several mutual funds, especially sectoral and thematic funds. Many investors who put their money into these funds—whether during New Fund Offers (NFOs) or afterward—are now facing losses as net asset values (NAVs) have dropped significantly. If you are in this position, here’s how to navigate the situation wisely. Understanding the Impact on Sectoral and Thematic Funds Sectoral and thematic funds focus on specific industries or investment themes, making them highly sensitive to market conditions. Recent heavy selling by foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and sector-specific downturns have led to…
Dreaming of an international trip? For many Indian travelers, the thought of a foreign vacation includes not just flight and accommodation expenses but also the cost and effort involved in getting a visa. But did you know there are several countries where Indian passport holders can travel without a visa? Yes, you read it right! Here’s a detailed list of destinations you can explore without worrying about visa formalities. Short-Term Visa-Free Travel for Indians (Up to 30 Days) For travelers looking for quick getaways, these destinations allow Indian passport holders to visit without a visa for up to 30 days:…