9 mutual funds that survived the market crash in 2011
Here's what helped them stand tall amidst a falling market and what you can expect from them in 2012. 5 things we hate about Indian customer care services
As the people on the other side who suffer the interaction with customer care service agents, here are 5 things about Indian call centres that leaves us exasperated. 8 financial resolutions you should keep in 2012
As 2011 rings out, it is time to reflect on the year gone by. It is also the time to look forward to the New Year. Use this year-end to review your financial scorecard for 2011 and make necessary changes to create an action plan to improve the score in 2012. 5 GOLDEN RULES of retirement planning
Retirement planning is a long-term goal. Follow these well chalked out rules that will help you retire early. Buying resale property? 9 things you must know
Buying a resale property involves many legal and other procedural requirements. It is prudent, therefore, to first understand the various procedures and safety measures for buying resale property to avoid hassles in future. Here's why you must have an emergency fund
Being ready to meet a financial emergency is an integral part of financial planning but is often ignored. Here's why you must have an emergency fund. How to choose a traditional insurance plan
The traditional insurance plan is complex and difficult to understand when compared to the ULIP. In this article, we will discuss the important points that need to be looked before choosing a traditional insurance plan. Nokia Money: Is India ready to switch to mobile payments?
Nokia Money works with basic feature phones. It allows most basic monetary transactions ranging from mobile top-ups to ticket booking, without the necessity of having a bank account. But are we ready? Five HOTTEST real estate cities to watch out for in India
Siddhesh Joglekar, founder of Estatelister.com lists out reasons why these five cities could emerge as the best real estate investments in the New Year. 9 tips to close your home loan in the New Year
Here are a few useful recommendations to help you close your home loan early and save on interest costs. Single? Simple investment tips to make YOUR life easy!
Follow these and you will find yourself in a comfortable financial situation. How this AMAZING technology will revolutionise the way we pay!
Get Ahead reader Manmohan Singh explains how NFC technology will revolutionise the way we make secured payments. How to make the most of the Insurance Ombudsman
Insurance Ombudsmen are officials, who can solve all your insurance related woes and queries in an efficient and effective manner. Here's how to make the most of this dispensation. 7 important income tax documents you MUST know of
Here is a quick guide to help you understand the typical documents and forms required for filing returns. A clear understanding helps you to file your returns correctly and accurately. 7 insurance myths debunked
Remember insurance is, first and last, a safety mechanism for your dependants. Let not these insurance myths jeopardise your family's future. 10 money lessons to learn from 2011
As 2011 comes to an end, we take a look at crucial money lessons we learnt during difficult times of 2011. These lessons will keep you in good stead if the difficult times continue in 2012. QUIZ: The difference between personal and credit card loans
Here are ten questions to test your knowledge of personal loans. Take this quiz to understand why individuals should take special care while opting for personal loans. Must read: What happens when a cheque bounces?
Read on to see what trouble a dishonoured cheque (that is, a bounced cheque) can cause you. Five most important personal finance ratios you must know
Let's look at some of the ratios that individuals should track to ensure they do not end up in financial distress. 8 money tips for those planning to get married
Planning to get married in 2012? Here are eight things you must know before you say 'I do'. Is your partner cheating financially on you? Find out
Here is how you can find out if your partner is guilty of financial infidelity. Taking an auto loan? Crack this quiz first!
There are many factors that govern auto loans. Take this quiz to find out just what you know and must know about borrowing money for a new car. How to prepare an investment statement
Here are certain important aspects you must know before preparing an investment policy statement. Buying health insurance? 11 exclusions you must know
Know when these come into play before buying a health insurance policy. Want to trade in global stock markets? Read this
Hurrah! Indians can invest in global derivatives markets now. Let's try to figure out how exactly this arrangement works and how an individual investor can gain from this opportunity. 11 money lessons for college students
Let's have a look at some significant money lessons for students to help them become financially successful. Buying a laptop? 9 things you must know
Depending on your usage, here are nine things you must know before buying a laptop. Four reasons why YOU don't make money in stock markets
In the last 10 years, if you had invested Rs 1 lakh 10 in the BSE Sensex, you could have made Rs 5.14 lakh today. But did you? Here are the reasons why... Quiz: Test your home loan knowledge
How well do you know your home loan. Take this quiz and find out. Want to file a case against recovery agents? Here are 5 tips
Polite to the point of sounding subservient and sugar coated in their approach while selling a loan to a customer, your bank can suddenly take on the avatar of a ruthless Shylock, after your pound of flesh, in the form of these recovery agents. Here, then, are five tips to file a case against these recovery agents. SIX reasons why property prices WILL NOT fall in your city!
Siddhesh Joglekar, founder of Estatelister.com lists out reasons why there is little chance of property prices falling in your city. How to invest in banking stocks
Five ratios you must know before putting your money into banking stocks. 10 effective ways to spend less money
Here are some small changes that you can bring about in the way you use money to help you effectively curb impulsive spending and yet not make you feel as if you are restraining yourself. Workshop on 10 investment mistakes and how to avoid them
A workshop on 10 common mistakes that most investors make and how to avoid them to be conducted by Harsh Roongta, personal finance expert and CEO, ApnaPaisa.com on November 25. Buying real estate? Keep your eyes open for these hidden costs
From the time you check out a property and sign on the dotted line the price of your dream home could well cost you 25 per cent more. Here's why... Infosys or TCS: Which is better investment bet in IT sector?
We evaluate both the IT majors as against recent growth parameters. Read on. 18 ways to reduce car insurance premium
The following tips will help you choose the right car insurance and save money in the process. How to educate your children about money
It's important that your children, as they grow, should understand the value of money. Here, then, are some suggestions to teach your children how to save and spend money. 'Gold in any form is a great investment'
TV actor Yashashri Masurkar shares her money mantras. Here's how to avoid credit card frauds
How crooks try to trick the system and defraud credit card transactions and how you must protect yourself from such scams. How to calculate return on endowment and money back plans
Though insurance is primarily a risk mitigation tool, many people use insurance for the purpose of long term investment. Here, then, how to calculate returns on your insurance investments. Top three ways of increasing your take home pay
How to use the various components of a CTC to our advantage and hence not pay higher tax. Why health insurance is important in financial planning
Why one must take health insurance seriously to achieve the best in financial planning. How to calculate your life insurance coverage
There are different ways in which you can calculate the life insurance coverage. Here are some simple ways to find out your life's worth. Know your RIGHTS as an airline passenger
This article provides details of the new policy made by Ministry of Civil Aviation regarding compensation for cancelled flights. 8 tips to make the most out of your mutual fund
Investing in mutual funds is a challenging task. Here's what you must know before you start your mutual fund investments. 'The perfect way to ruin a friendship is to lend money'
Film and television actor Arif Zakaria shares his tips on money and relationship mantras. How not to get CHEATED by your stock broker
We discuss some basic tips to follow while dealing with stock brokers so that a financial crisis is avoided in future. Zoya Akhtar: Do what you love, money will come
The director of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara shares her take on life and career. Should you buy gold NOW?
Gold prices are again moving up after a downward slide. But will this upward movement sustain? More importantly, should you buy more of the yellow metal now? Here's the answer. 6 must-know ratios to make money in stocks
Six ratios that give investors a better picture of the health of the company that they plan to invest in and make money. 'I was wrongly advised by my bank relationship manager'
Singer Shibani Kashyap shares her money mantras, credit card dos and don'ts, her first salary and investments and what she plans to buy this Diwali with Rediff.com. 6 financial planning myths demystified
Here are 6 financial planning myths debunked to help you make a successful financial plan. 'The first time I bought gold'
Tell us about your first experience buying/investing in gold. Do women make poor money managers? NO!
Here's the biggest myth of the financial world: Women make poor money managers. If anything, the argument has swung in favour of the fairer sex in the midst of this global financial crisis. Here are 5 rules then that women investors must always follow. TV star Romit Raj: How I invest my money
TV actor Romit Raj of Gharki Laxmi Betiyaan fame shares his money secrets with Rediff.com. Withdrawing cash from ATMs? Know your rights
Here are a few things you should keep in mind when you're using an ATM. How to earn AMAZING returns on your fixed deposit
Can't believe that your humble fixed deposit investment can ever give you a return of 23 per cent per annum? Well, you need some simple math, some smart jugglery and the numbers add up. Four tips to spend your annual bonus smartly
Do not splurge your annual bonus or luxuries. Instead plan how you can optimise it to meet your long-term goals. Lessons to learn from losses made by this MF investor
Learn how not to make losses by learning your money lesson from mutual fund portfolio of an investor. Buying term insurance? A must-read checklist
A bird's eye view of what you should check out before buying term insurance policies. The ABC of pre-approved loans
Almost every day banks use tele-marketing executives to sell pre-approved loans to prospective borrowers. But do such loans actually make sense? And how minimal are the formalities? Insurance portability: Follow a wait and watch strategy
Now that insurance companies are offering portability the one question uppermost in every mind is: Should one opt for it? While it is too early to provide an answer in black and white the best strategy policyholders could follow now is wait and watch, says Salil Dhawan. Six factors to consider before investing in IPOs
Looking at the history of IPO success and failure stories, you would be smart to first fully understand the various aspects behind such offerings and makes the right choice to invest or not in IPOs. 10 things you must ask your life insurance agent
Here are 10 things you must ask your insurance agent to ensure you buy a policy that is most suitable to you. Decoding your restaurant bill
Have you ever faced terms such as 'service tax', 'VAT' and 'service charge' while eating out at a restaurant. However, instead of asking the restaurant authorities about these terms and their application, have you simply paid up to avoid any potentially embarrassing social encounter? Fear not, after reading this article, you won't face any such problems again. All you need to know about tax deduction on LTA
Read the illustration here to find out how you can milk your LTA benefits to the maximum. EMI on credit card: Should you go for it?
A lowdown on the strings attached to such credit card schemes and when you should and should not opt for them. 4 easy steps to financial planning
Planning your finances well on your own can lead to achieving your dreams in a hassle-free manner. Here's how to plan your finances to achieve your goals. Stock market tips to benefit from petrol price hikes
Fuel being a scarce resource hike in petrol and diesel is a given. But smart stock market investors can still benefit from these regular price hikes. A comprehensive guide to buying term insurance policies
Here's your one-stop to know and learn all you always wanted to know about term insurance policies but didn't know who to ask. Travel smart with prepaid travel cards
Here are prepaid travel cards which serve as a great alternative to carrying currency, whether you are on a business or a pleasure trip. So leave your worries behind, and just enjoy your trip. Signed for a 'store credit card'? You may get into a debt trap
A look into what to look out for before using a store credit cards and when to avoid them completely. Money lessons for study abroad success
Going abroad for higher studies and still grappling with how to manage your finances once in an unknown place? Here are a few tips that to help you manage your money better. Best tax-saving option: MF ELSS, ULIP or PPF?
Find out which amongst the three tax-saving options investors should opt for. How teaser home loans benefit banks more than you
With banks competing for the ever-increasing pie of home loan borrowers with new schemes every second month we decipher what HDFC's latest teaser home loan scheme is all about and whether you should opt for it or not. Signed up for a 'free SMS' service? Here's the high cost you pay
By enrolling into the FREE SMS service, you are actually paying a much higher price than you would have by using your normal SMS messages by mobile connection provider. Sounds foolish? Here's the proof. How to benefit from bonus shares, stock splits, buyback offers
Let's try to figure out what are different kinds of corporate actions, how exactly they influence the share prices and how you can use these opportunities for generating profit. 6 simple ways to assess your mutual fund manager
We discuss some of the common parameters used to assess fund managers. These are important because a fund's performance is directly linked to the fund manager's ability to consistently select the best-suited picks for his/her fund. Should you buy a house or rent it? Here's the answer
To help you evaluate the two options, we list out the pros and cons of both sides. With different financial implications, the option that may suit you greatly depends on your financial needs. Read on to understand this. Reliance SIP + Insure: Should you invest?
A comprehensive look into what this scheme is all about and why as an investor one should not go for this scheme. Switching jobs? Take care of your EPF, tax issues
From EPF to tax computation to old salary account to health insurance... here's a financial checklist for a trouble-free transition while switching jobs. How to own your dream home in half the time
By increasing your monthly EMIs by just a few thousand rupees you can actually end up owning your dream house in almost half the tenure saving lakhs in interest outgo. Read on... Missed tax deadline? Here's how much you'll pay
Lot of people miss the deadline every year due to lack of time or plain laziness. Did you miss it too? In case you have, do not worry. You can still file the belated return. As a taxpayer, you are likely to fall under one of these four categories. The associated rules and implications are outlined below. 7 common stock investment myths BUSTED
Make sure you don't react impulsively and beware of some of common pitfalls while investing in the stock market. The pros and cons of 'secured credit cards'
Here's what's hot and what's not about a new option that banks have recently rolled out to meet your plastic money needs. Got a one-time bonus? Prepay your home loan
Here's the answer to a dilemma faced by many home loan borrowers: To prepay your home loan or not when you get a one-time substantial bonus. An investment option that BEATS market volatility
Equity SIPs are meant for long-term investors and choice of stocks should be made on fundamentals of the company. Say NO to 'child insurance plan'
Here's why you must not opt for a pure child insurance plan and what could possibly be the ideal method of investing for your child's future. 6 don'ts of using your credit card
Here are some things you must never do with respect to your credit card. Tips to invest in stocks post US downgrade
Here are some tips which may help one stay clear of the mess and chart out some winning strategies in these times of crisis and world-wide panic. Hiring a financial advisor? 10 questions to ask
It is very difficult to choose a financial advisor today due to the plethora of investment options and due to the number of 'advisors' in the industry. Here we try to simplify this process by asking the 10 right questions. SMART tips for investors when stock markets crash
The stock markets the world over are once again in doldrums. We will point out some steps that investors should take in such a crisis-like situation. Real estate investments made simple
Did you ever think that investing in real estate would one day be as simple as investing in mutual funds? If no, please read on... Money tips: What works in good and bad times!
As economic conditions remain fragile, the equity markets around the globe have corrected drastically in last few days on account of poor investor sentiment. In this article, we aim to analyse what works and what doesn't in good and bad times! Easy ways to increase YOUR take-home pay
Everyone could do with a little extra money but how do you get there? am22tech.com lists out simple ways to do it! Best financial gifts for your sister this Rakhi
Let's look at some investment options you can gift to your sister this Raksha Bandhan, which she will treasure for rest of her life. Do remember the earlier it is, better the returns due to the power of compounding. 5 blunders to avoid when stock markets CRASH
The current stock market crash accompanied by a climate of pessimism across the world calls for not just shrewdness while investing money in the stock market, but also for avoiding the five common blunders that most long term investors make during a stock market fall. Six tips to save for the rainy day
Here is an ideal scenario to manage your short-term savings and align it with your long-term investments. Five must-knows before investing in mutual funds
Though both equity fund and stocks extend market-related returns, there are some key differences between the two. If you have similar misconceptions about equity funds and stocks, this article will demystify those misconceptions. Tips to cope with rising home loan EMIs
In an online chat with readers on August 3, home loan expert Harsh Roongta provided answers to how home loan borrowers should cope with their rising equated monthly installments. 4 short-term strategies for investing in stocks
In this article, we will discuss some of the short term strategies that investors and speculators follow. Most of the these look for short term gain. 10 credit card rejection reasons, their solutions
Here is what could have played a spoilsport in your case. See if you can find a reason for yourself and correct it before re-applying. 7 financial planning tips for couples
Money is one of the biggest discord among newlyweds, especially in big cities. Problem of spending and investing as 'I' among married couples instead of 'We' is one of biggest problem behind poor investment decisions. So what's the solution? Read on.... 10 commandments of personal finance
We all work and earn money. Do we manage our hard earned money effectively and efficiently? Here are the 10 commandments of personal finance that can help you manage your personal finance better. How I got my home loan without a guarantor
The story of a common man who overcame hurdles posed by public sector banks and availed of a home loan to buy his dream house. BENEFITS of credit card with annual fee
Here are four comparative benefits and situations in which you should opt for credit cards with annual fees. Don't let fear and greed drive your investing
Overcome these two fears and help yourself with creating wealth in the long term. Confused about filing tax returns? Here's help
Here's a quick round up on what has changed over the past year and a few other tips to get your tax filing done. 10 blue chip stocks for long-term investing
10 stocks of blue chip companies that retail investors can consider buying for the long term. How to build a SOLID mutual fund portfolio
How many mutual funds should an investor have in his or her portfolio? Advisors generally agree that three to four mutual funds is all that you need in your portfolio. But there is something more if you need to buidl a solid MF portfolio for the long term. How your savings account makes you POOR
Don't keep your money in savings account. Here's how you end up losing money rather than earning interest on it. Six reasons why your home loan can be REJECTED
If you are planning to buy a house in the near future, make sure you start exploring pre-conditions you will need to satisfy to apply for home loan and be prepared about the same. Here's how banks calculate home loan eligibility
Normally, all banks provide home loans up to 60 times your monthly net income. All sounds good till the time you submit your documents and pay loan processing fees. Six reasons why you must file income tax returns
Tax consultant Mahesh Padmanabhan throws light on six reasons why you must file your tax returns and then lists out the virtues of why you must not hide interest income earned while filing tax returns. Loan against gold: How it works
Find out how you can put your gold -- stored in safes at homes and bank lockers -- to good use in case you urgently need money at comparatively low rates of interest. Buying a home? Check for these 12 HIDDEN costs
The actual cost of your dream home will always be more than what the developer has advertised. This is because of 12 costs that you may not be aware of that increase the overall cost of your home. When to sell a mutual fund? 5 GOLDEN rules
Five simple rules of thumb that indicate it is about time you sold your mutual fund portfolio, booked your profits and re-invest the money you earn. E-filing: How the IT department is helping YOU
Today you can view your tax credit online, pay taxes online, file your return online, track the processing status in real time and also get the refund online directly credited to your bank account. You don't need to stand in queues anymore or or be at the mercy of the bureaucracy. TAX TROUBLE: Must-follow tips to stay out!
The July 31 deadline is closer than we think. And, to get us in good shape for filing tax returns here is a handy guide to keep in mind. Why gold loan is BETTER than personal loan
A close look at the pros and cons of gold loans and why they could be a better option than personal loan. Home buyers, here's why banks can STOP your loan
We, as loan borrowers never try to find out the intrinsic details while applying for loan as we are in hurry but find certain policies strange and betrayal by bank when we actually encounter them. Plan NOW for future medical expenses
Medical emergencies don't warn before visiting you or your family. The best way to tackle them is to prepare yourself today to deal with the financial hole they leave in your pocket. Six best mutual funds for the long term
A close look at six mutual funds which investors can consider for fulfilling their long term goals. Dia Mirza: 'I bought a house when I was 20'
The Bollywood actress shares investment tips as well as the best and worst investment decision she's taken so far. VPF vs PPF: Which is better
If you look at the interest rate offered, tenure of investment and tax implications voluntary provident fund scores over public provident fund. How to get MORE out of your HRA
Normally, most of us have this understanding that whatever HRA amount we receive as part of our salary is the maximum amount that is considered for tax rebate under HRA. This is NOT correct though. Read on to get the details. Tax: 14 must-knows of Form 16
Though we know that Form 16 is for tax filing but many of us still find it hard to understand the components of Form 16 while filing the return. Understanding Form 16 is the key to a better tax planning. Think before investing in new fund offers
It's that time of the year when it is raining NFOs and mutual fund companies are all set to aggressively market them. Very often, for an average investor the decision of investing in a NFO versus choosing from among the existing mutual funds could be quite a predicament. Which one actually serves as a better option? Investment Yogi explains the most basic aspects of both the options, helping you make a wise decision. 3 ways to kickstart your financial plan
Most of us at some point in our life have felt that we don't have enough money to make our dreams come true! But your dreams can come true with a good financial plan. 7 financial planning steps for your father
This year celebrate Father's Day a bit differently and surprise him with your gratitude. Show, you too care about him as much he did throughout his life. Why homemakers need to be insured
It would be interesting to study why homemakers too need insurance. How to PROFIT by investing early in life
Most of you find finance and investing too complicated and irksome. But did you know that investing small amounts regularly and keeping a check on your savings and expenses can take care few of your monetary problems. BUSTED: 5 myths about e-filing of IT returns
The real problem is not the poor Internet access or non availability of computer. It is the mindset and misconception of the people which they have about filing their tax returns online. Here's the reality behind some of the common myths regarding e-filing of income tax returns. 4 ways to spend your annual bonuses wisely
Here is a list of financially prudent things to do (in the order of priority) with your annual bonus rather than blowing it all up in one massive binge. 9 ways to select the best MFs for investing
Indian market offers more than 3,000 mutual funds with all kind of names imaginable. This has both pros and cons. The good part is that you have mutual funds which can specifically suit your needs and risk profile. The bad part is that you have to be able to select the right one. Here's how, A home loan that pays back 50 per cent interest?
HSBC India has announced a new home loan package offering to pay back part of the interest to borrowers. Yes, like the foreign bank claims, it is a first in the home loans business. But if one takes a careful look, it might not be such a big deal after all. Quiz: 10 must-know credit card FACTS
Here's a quiz on credit card designed to test your basics. Take it! Buying a home? How not to get cheated
As real estate investors/home buyers you should be aware of these must-know terms so as not to get deceived by builders and real estate agents. 5 smart ways to keep your RISING EMIs in check
Despite rising borrowing costs and home loan EMIs, borrowers have some good options to keep their rising EMIs in check. Filing IT returns? All about the new forms
Guide to the new income tax return, ITR, forms Sahaj and Sugam to help you identify which ITR form to pick for filing your tax return in 2011. Five steps to financial success
Here are some universal truths about financial goal setting that have helped most of the financially successful persons. A beginner's guide to investing in SIPs
If you remember the childhood story of the tortoise and hare, then the systematic investment plan (SIP) is the equivalent of the tortoise in the race to create wealth. SIPs make sure that you continue moving slowly but surely to win the race in money matters. 7 important must-knows before buying a home
If you are planning to buy a flat, you must know certain things. Seven most important of them are listed here. Nine ways to avoid credit card debt
To be smart with your credit card and avoid falling into a debt trap you need to know the rules of the credit card usage. Is your EPF lying dormant? Here's what you lose
If your EPF account has been lying dormant for more than three years that you must sit up and take notice. Else you may not earn interest on it. How DTC 2012 will change the way you save tax
The original draft of DTC was much different from what you have in current form. Having said that you need to make you investments DTC-compliant. Here's some more in depth analysis and the strategy you must follow once DTC 2012 kicks in: Must-knows while buying travel insurance
Amit Madhan, national manager, retail products, ICICI Lombard GIC, talks about the most important things that students, business and leisure travellers must know while buying travel insurance. Lost your mobile? Remember these five things!
In the unfortunate event that you do lose your mobile phone, here is what you should do to maximise your chances of getting it back. 7 steps to get the BEST deal on a car loan
Negotiating a car loan is not as easy as it looks. Dealers tend to include various discounts offered by the manufacturers and financiers in the interest rate offered to the buyer of the car. Here's a seven-step guide to negotiate better. Get your favourite degree. Cost no hurdle!
Fees for most programmes have gone up exponentially. But the means to meet such expenses have also burgeoned. Here is a primer. FMPs vs FDs: Why FMPs give better returns
Quite often for investors fixed maturity plans and fixed deposits are alike but there are some distinct differences. The protection of capital is foremost selling point for both FMPs and FDs. But FMPs score over FDs on a few parameters. How to manage bank loan defaults
Defaulting on the payment is a serious offence and one must avoid it at all cost. But if at all you default on one, here's how to handle the tricky situation. How to make more money every month
Monthly income plans -- investment instruments that provide monthly return on your investment -- is the answer. Here's how. 8 SMART ways to lower your tax liability
There are no secrets or mantras to save more tax. Just follow the basics of investing in tax saving instruments and, more importantly, how much one needs to invest. 8 WISE ways to use your credit card
Unlike our past generations, spending has taken priority over saving. And a major contributor to this trend has been the increasing use of plastic money aka credit cards. Here are eight things you could do to ensure that you use your credit card wisely. Dos and don'ts of stock market investing
Knowing the dos and don'ts of investing in the stock market would help you become a smart investor. Best children investment plan: Mutual funds?
Picking up the right investment instrument for your child's financial future can be daunting as there are too many products offering 'best/guaranteed returns. There is enough number of funds in the market which are designed specifically for this purpose. Read on to know more. 20 mantras for successful MF investing
Investing in mutual funds is all about following the basics, keeping it simple and persisting with your investments. Do you have problem with IT refund? Here's help
Or impolite behaviour of tax officials or other issues related to the income tax department? The Tax Ombudsman can help you. Your monthly EPF can make you a crorepati
Power of compounding clubbed with a matching contribution from your employer every month can do wonders for you. Most common easy-to-miss tax deductions
For those of you who ran pillar-to-post last year to save that extra dough, here's a lesson or two on the tax deductions / exemptions that you should not miss. 5 investing lessons from India's World Cup victory
The final match between India and Sri Lanka was an exciting one. We can draw many lessons from it for the investing world. Now, you too can buy your credit score from CIBIL
Indian consumers can now access their CIBIL TransUnion Score to make informed borrowing decisions and avail speedier access to credit. SMART tips to use your credit cards
In an online chat with Get Ahead readers on April 20 Kunnath Santosh of Perfios gave tips to readers on how they can become smart credit card users. The Stockguru India and other investment scams
India is no stranger to investment scams. From schemes which promise exceptionally high returns to fake share trading companies which are not registered, gullible investors are lured almost every other day. FAQs: All you want to know about renting a house
Your one-stop guide to everything you want to know about renting a property. What's your money personality? Find out
There are 5 major groups: the trendy spenders, the great shoppers, the savers, the wise investors and the debtors. Identify yourself with one of these money personality groups and find out how you can improve. Financial planning tips for expecting couples
Here is a list of expenses which starts right from the time you think of having a baby and how to prepare yourself for the newborn's financial well-being. How to check your EPF balance and status online
Here's what you MUST know to check your Employees' Provident Fund balance and status online. 10 rules of SUCCESSFUL investing!
These commandments when strictly followed can make you a successful investor; make you richer. How to avoid Internet banking frauds
Pointers for gullible consumers to protect themselves against fraudulent practices that may lead to loss of vital information and money. Now, check your income tax refund status online
With the click of a mouse you could now check the status of your income tax refund online. The Income Tax department has introduced online availability of information regarding one's tax refund. Benefits of Employees' Provident Fund explained
Every month your salary slip features a deduction towards your Provident Fund (also known as Employees Provident Fund or EPF in short). How often have you wondered if such a contribution is actually beneficial to you and if it is actually needed? What if you quit or switch over jobs? Here's explaining the benefits EPF carries and why one should pay attention to this contribution. Build a smart investment portfolio in four steps
Here are some points to be kept in mind while determining your asset allocation strategy for building a portfolio. Now pay income tax through ATMs!
Forget the never-ending forms and the paperwork, be ready to pay your taxes at your nearest ATM 10 must-dos of retirement planning
A look at the 10 sound doctrines of retirement planning. 4 steps to file your income tax return ACCURATELY
In this article we shall discuss four preliminary steps to be taken for filing your income tax return accurately and correctly. Avoid these 2 emotions to be a successful investor
An experienced long-term investor once told me that when he looked at his face after a share market fall he found despair and fear, while the same face showed enthusiasm and happiness with a share market appreciation. This made him realise that greed and fear were the two magnetic forces that caused confusion in investment goals. How to profit from rising food inflation
This article introduces you to a unique themed fund. This fund will not only provide you with global diversification but also let you profit from rising food prices. How YOU can protect your home from calamities!
A home insurance covers losses arising out of such natural or man-made calamities, to the structure, or to the contents of your home. For a small amount of premium, it offers protection against the financial losses to your home or to your precious belongings. 5 signs you should SELL your MF, like now!
As an investor you need to learn not only when to buy but also when to sell a mutual fund. Learning the principles of when to sell a mutual fund helps weed off investment in unprofitable mutual funds and build up a desirable and profitable portfolio of mutual fund investments. Five money tips to plan your summer vacation
Simple tips and summer fun ideas to save money, now and throughout the year. Do your fear losing money in stocks? Here's help
The simple answer to the question -- should one invest in stocks -- is a BIG yes if you are a long-term investor. But as an investor in stocks there are a few basic things that one has to remember. A 5-step guide to filing income tax returns online
Filing of income tax returns could be quite a task for many, owing to plethora of paperwork and lengthy procedures. In this era of technology, no longer is this going to be a daunting task. 5 retirement planning mistakes to avoid
Here are five 'what-not-to-dos' of retirement planning that could seriously damage your retired life. Last-minute tips to optimise your tax savings
Here's a quick round up on what you should do whilst you apply finishing touches to your tax planning. 5 steps to choose your financial advisor
Five rules that can help you create wealth and choose a wise financial advisor. Creating wealth: Tips from three investment gurus
We discuss the general investor behaviour and how some of the ideas by investment gurus can help you avoid common investment mistakes. Four facts you SHOULD know about filing IT returns
If you have just begun your financial life as an income tax payer you must know these facts about filing your returns. The benefits of investing in NSCs
If you do not have enough funds to invest and do not want to commit your money for a longer period, then you can consider investing in National Saving Certificates. 7 most common myths and facts about fixed deposits
Here's making you aware about some of the most common myths and facts that you may face while investing in one. 8 budgeting misconceptions demystified
There are people who believe in certain budgeting myths that retard the savings of a lifetime. Here are eight such family budgeting misconceptions demystified to help you get the bang out of every buck that you save. Are Indian women 'financially empowered'?
Here's how Indian women can achieve financial empowerment. Given is the case study of how a 36-year-old housewife can achieve financial independence. Women's day special: Empower the investor in you!
Over the years women have typically become savvier financially, irrespective of their role, they take care of finances finance from handling household expenses, planning for her child's education, emergencies etc. Here are some tips for various ways for women to save and invest some money. Six deadly investment sins
Are investors emotional or rational in their investment decisions? Let's take a look. Budget 2011-12: What's in it for young India
Here's a look at what will become cheaper and what will become costlier for India's young from April 1, 2011 when Union Budget for 2011-12 comes into effect. Get rich by investing in stocks and mutual funds
If you want to make money by investing in stocks and mutual funds you should first know their basics. Know the right approach to tax planning
Here's what you must know about filing your tax returns. The common man's wishlist for Union Budget 2011
Heave ho! Its budget time once again. Time for putting on our scrutiny hats and building up expectations of what Pranab Mukherjee will present to the country on Monday, February 28! 5 blunders to avoid when stock markets fall
The current downswing in the share market calls for not just shrewdness in share dealing, but also for avoiding the five common blunders that most long term investors make during a stock market fall. 7 things you MUST know about public provident fund
7 must knows of a PPF, to make them more profitable for you. How to invest in bonds and get rich
A dummy's guide to investing wisely in bonds and money markets. Follow these four rules to get rich!
Do you want to create wealth? Are you satisfied and happy as you are? Most of us would answer the first question as 'yes', and the second as 'no', and if you are one of them then you are at the right place at the right time. 7 things you must know about HRA and tax benefits
House Rent Allowance (HRA), is an important component in most salary slips. Here are 7 must knows to help you utilise this component of your salary in a tax-efficient manner. Six facts you must know about inflation
A peek into the concept of inflation, its effect on your daily living, what causes it and how you can protect your earnings from it. Why you must invest in ultra short-term funds
In this article we discuss ultra short-term funds and why it makes sense to invest in these funds for meeting short-term goals. I Dream: Of a lavish vacation!
We all have dream destinations for a vacation. Often they just stay as dreams for obvious financial reasons. However, if we were to plan it well, we could probably head to those dream destinations. Protect yourself from bad stock market advice
Listed here are some investment advices related to stock markets which if heard should be given proper thought before betting your money on them. 5 ways of investing in yourself
Are you managing one of your greatest assets -- yourself -- with care? Here are five ways that can help you. Financial must-dos in 2011
Actually, these must-dos are a no-brainer. But difficult to implement as well. Here's how you should implement what you resolve to do with things financial. Buying mutual funds online? What you must know
Buying mutual funds online makes it possible for you (or rather forces you) to have control over your investments, which, frankly, is the only way to ensure that your money is working for you. Here is a ready reckoner on becoming a savvy mutual fund investor online. Investing foolishly to save tax? Read this
You tax-saving investments should not only depend on good returns but also take into consideration the various stages in your life to optimise your investments. How to achieve your financial goals: A case study
Dehradoon based Saurabh Sarin, 36 and his wife Shreya Sarin, 34 lead a simple life with their young son Shuarya 6, in their small but beautiful house. But in this calm fa What your credit card numbers tell you
Here's your chance to find out if a credit card number is valid or not in three simple steps. 8 financial blunders and how to fix them
Many financial blunders are easy enough to avoid once you know what to watch out for. Want mediclaim for your newborn baby? Read this
Three mediclaim policies that cover babies from the day they are born. 7 secrets of winning the stock market game
When it comes to stock market investing, following the crowd often results in losses. Why replicate the mediocrity of the masses when you can clone the success of the world's greatest investor, Warren Buffett? Investing: Choose what's right for YOU
With the economy back on track and lots of activity in the financial markets -- Sensex highs, interest rate changes -- it's probably time to take a re-look at all investment options available to you. How not to fall prey to financial scams
When someone presents an amazing financial opportuity to you or promises to double your money in a month ask this question of yourself: Is this too good to be true? If the answer is yes, better step back and look for investments elsewhere. What's the right MF for you? Here's the answer
If you are confused as an investor with the information overload and would like to choose the right type of fund for you then you are at the right place.. Understanding taxes: Section 80E for edu loans
Education loans are a convenient and popular option for many, to meet the cost of higher education. Did you also know that under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, repayment of this education loan could be used to claim a deduction? Read on to find out, what this section offers and how to utilise it to your benefit. Why term insurance is the best insurance for you
Term life insurance policies are also called 'pure-risk policies' and 'pure life policies'; they have no savings or investment element in them; the premium includes only the cost of buying the life cover. Here are 6 term insurance policies compared on 5 parameters for you to choose from. Is your teenager driving your car? Watch out
Who pays for the loss if your underage teenager driving your car meets with an accident: you or your motor insurer? Want to save tax? Time to opt for ELSS
The season for investment in tax saving instrument has started. Here, is an investment avenue to save tax that is cheap and lets you participate in India's economic growth story. I Dream of: The best for my child
While you embark on the journey to plan for their higher education / marriage, here are few typical things that should be kept in mind to ensure that you are on the right track. Save tax even as you spend on medical treatment
A complete guide for income tax deductions under sections 80D, 80DD and 80DDB which relate to medical expenses and health insurance/mediclaim. Good understanding will help you in substantial tax savings. Volatile stock market? You can still make money
For most investors volatility is the biggest evil of the stock market. Here is a fund, that offers cushion against market ups and downs in the near to medium future. Will study loan interest subsidy reach students?
The last few financial budgets have announced some very good schemes for students availing of education loans. But, alas, the benefits are not reaching the students yet. Find out why. 7 reasons why you must buy gold ETFs
As the Indian stock market gyrates to the tune of global uncertainties, investors are looking out to invest their moneys in safe haven. Gold, in virtual form, can obviously be one of those safe havens. But if you are not convinced here are 7 reasons why you must invest in gold exchange traded funds. Investing in FDs: Watch out for that penalty
Do your math first if you are already invested in a fixed deposit and want to break it to reinvest the same at a higher rate of interest. Stocks, debt, gold: What's in it for you in 2011?
Should you invest or not in these avenues in 2011? Find out... 8 tips to create wealth in 2011
Follow these 8 New Year resolutions and you will end the year with more wealth than the previous year. I Dream: Of turning around my finances in 2011!
Investors should resolve to get in good financial shape in the New Year. Here are few resolutions that should get you started... May - December 2010 | February - April 2010