By Monika Halan
5
33 ratings
The podcast currently has 50 episodes available.
In this episode, Monika explores why inflation has surged in India, hitting 6.2% in October 2024, the highest in over a year. She explains how inflation is measured using the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks price changes in a basket of consumer goods and services. A consistent rise in the CPI indicates inflation, with a recent jump reflecting concerns about India’s economic stability. The ideal inflation target for India is set between 2% and 6%, with 4% considered optimal for growth, but the current numbers exceed this range.
Monika discusses the key contributors to the recent spike, particularly food inflation. October saw food and beverage prices soar to 9.69%, driven by a 42.2% increase in vegetable costs, along with rising cereal and oil prices. She highlights the persistent food inflation due to extreme weather conditions and challenges in the agricultural sector, exacerbated by the government’s struggle to implement necessary reforms. These factors complicate inflation control, and Monika predicts that inflation might not ease until early next year, affecting consumer spending and economic growth.
The recent closure of Durga Cooperative Bank is also discussed in this episode. The RBI canceled the bank’s license, forcing customers to rely on deposit insurance for refunds. This situation underscores the risks of choosing high-interest cooperative banks, leading to a recommendation to prioritize safer options like large public or private banks for emergency fund deposits.
Listener queries include Raj Krishan (name changed), who asks if his family’s net worth of INR 7 crore, along with other resources, is sufficient to support his upcoming career switch to entrepreneurship. Another listener, Smitha, shares concerns about financial stability after returning from Australia and asks for guidance on managing property inheritance and finding employment in India. Lastly, Kumarjit inquires about how to choose a reliable financial planner, seeking clarity on professional credentials and fee structures.
Chapters:
(0:34 - 4:44) Why Inflation is Not Coming Down
(4:45 - 6:48) Why Are Food Prices So High?
(6:49 - 8:27) The Risk of Cooperative Bank Deposits
(8:30 - 10:42) Is It Financially Secure Enough to Start a Business?
(10:44 - 13:37) Should You Stay in India or Return to Australia for Financial Stability?
(13:41 - 16:47) How to Choose a Financial Planner?
https://www.amfiindia.com/locate-your-nearest-mutual-fund-distributor-details
https://aria.org.in/
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi
In this episode, Monika explores the potential impact of a Trump presidency on the cryptocurrency market. Following recent U.S. election results, the crypto industry celebrated as Donald Trump returns to the White House as the 47th President of the United States, prompting a sharp rise in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency prices. Many in the industry expect a more relaxed regulatory approach under Trump, including his proposal for a federal reserve of Bitcoin, which could position Bitcoin as a recognized asset if a major country begins to hold it in its reserves.
She explains the concept of national reserves, which are assets held by central banks, like the Federal Reserve in the U.S. or the RBI in India, and typically include hard currencies and assets like gold. Adding Bitcoin to this mix would represent a significant shift, potentially complicating the Fed’s role in managing the money supply and interest rates. Monika cautions listeners about the risks of investing in an asset that isn’t regulated in India.
Monika addresses a common question from her followers: Are systematic investment plans (SIPs) still a viable strategy? While some argue that SIPs may not yield strong long-term gains, she clarifies that SIP performance depends on the quality of the mutual fund chosen and a long-term investment horizon. Although Sensex and Nifty have returned around 23% per year in recent years, she reminds investors that returns tend to normalize to historical averages of 12-14% annually.
In listener queries, Sarvesh Sinha (name changed) seeks advice on whether to use funds from underperforming mutual funds to pay off a personal loan he took to help a family member. Shivanand Patil wonders if he should redirect SIP contributions to pay off his home loan sooner. Lastly, Rohit Kumar (name changed) asks about adding gold and international investments to his portfolio.
Chapters:
(0:33 - 3:51) Trump, Bitcoin, and the Future of Crypto Reserves
(3:52 - 6:47) Are SIPs Still Effective for Long-Term Growth in Indian Markets?
(7:11 - 9:19) Family Loans: Head vs Heart in Financial Decisions
(9:24 - 12:04) Balancing Debt Repayment and Investment Contributions
(12:11 - 15:02) Gold Funds, SIPs, and Safe International Investments
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi
In this episode, Monika explains why Indian stock markets, after a four-year bull run, are now experiencing choppy waters. She discusses how markets sometimes grow ahead of the economy’s fundamentals, leading to short-term volatility. She highlights that while Sensex has returned a remarkable 23% per year over the last four years, long-term averages show more moderate returns. Investors should prepare for lower returns in the near future, possibly high single digits or low double digits, aligning with historical averages.
Monika also examines the role of Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) in recent market fluctuations. FIIs withdrew over Rs 88,000 crore from Indian equities in October 2024, partly to rebalance portfolios and shift funds back to the US amid election uncertainties. However, she notes that strong domestic investments through mutual funds and retirement accounts have cushioned the impact, preventing a larger market drop. Monika advises investors to stay focused on asset allocation rather than reacting to short-term FII moves.
The episode also addresses estate planning, with Monika stressing the importance of preparing an efficient asset handover. She recommends essential steps, like naming nominees on all financial accounts, keeping property documents accessible, and writing a registered will. By organizing assets now, families can avoid unnecessary stress and financial setbacks later on.
In listener queries, Richa Kukreja, a single working woman, seeks guidance on building a retirement corpus of INR 5 crore by age 60 through mutual funds. Sahil Kapoor from Dallas asks about tracking mutual fund returns and whether XIRR or annualized returns are more effective for this purpose. Lastly, Vidya, nearing retirement, shares her concerns about protecting her investments amidst global uncertainties and the potential impact on her mutual fund portfolio.
Chapters:
(0:41 - 5:01) Why Are Indian Markets Choppy? Understanding the Current Market Pullback
(5:02 - 7:06) Dealing with Death: Estate Planning and Asset Handover
(7:10 - 10:46) Building a Retirement Corpus with SIPs
(10:48 - 15:59) Annualized Returns
(16:02 - 18:58) Protecting Investments in Uncertain Global Events
https://www.amazon.in/Factfulness-Reasons-Wrong-Things-Better/dp/1473637465
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
In this episode, Monika discusses the protests by life insurance agents against recent policy changes favoring policyholders. Insurance agents, news reports say, are upset over reduced commissions and clawbacks due to new IRDAI rules that allow investors to keep more money when surrendering policies early. Effective from October 1, 2024, these changes aim to protect policyholders from harsh penalties while addressing mis-selling issues. Monika views these shifts positively for investors and recommends opting for term policies and direct investments over bundled insurance plans.
The episode also addresses the question of whether young people in their 20s and 30s should buy or rent a home. Monika advises that purchasing should only occur if one plans to stay long-term, as real estate is not an ideal investment due to low rental yields and variable appreciation. For those seeking flexibility in their careers, renting is often a smarter choice. She emphasizes the financial trade-offs involved in this decision, noting that buying early may limit career opportunities.
In listener queries, Nripjit Singh Chawla asks if he should redeem his equity mutual fund investments for an index fund. Monika advises against rushing this decision and suggests evaluating the current portfolio first. Dr. Abhinabha Saha, a 26-year-old doctor from Kolkata, wonders whether to take a loan for an MBA or use investments. Monika recommends a mix of both to balance costs. Lastly, Chandan Kundapur from the US seeks advice on generating monthly cash flow from mutual funds. Monika suggests utilizing a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) and consulting a financial planner for international relocation.
Chapters:
(0:33 - 5:57) Protests by Life Insurance Agents and Policy Changes
(5:58 - 9:50) The Age-Old Question: Should You Buy or Rent?
(9:54 - 11:40) Should I Switch From Equity Mutual Funds to Index Funds?
(11:41 - 13:15) Financing an MBA with Loans vs. Investments
(13:17 - 15:07) Generating Monthly Cash Flow from Investments
https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/irdai-signs-off-on-investor-gouging-101711633140902.html
https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/personal-finance/lic-agents-associations-up-in-arms-against-lower-commissions-threaten-protests-at-branches-12842876.html
https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/personal-finance/economic-survey-calls-out-rampant-mis-selling-in-insurance-banking-urges-action-12774625.html
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
In this episode, Monika reflects on the Durga Puja week, sharing her joy in visiting pandals while noting the limited news that led to her changing the episode format by addressing five listener questions instead of the usual 3.
Anonymous from Bengaluru, nearing retirement, faces the dilemma of paying his sisters Rs 1.2 crore for an inherited home, with suggestions like selling his rental flat or staggering payments over five years. Sachin Gupta from NOIDA, recently laid off at 40, wonders about withdrawing from his EPF for investments; the advice is to continue the job search for 6-12 months. Saurab Roy seeks guidance on increasing SIP contributions with 12 mutual funds, and consolidation to one platform while reducing funds to 8-10 is encouraged. Nayan Paliwal plans to use a windfall bonus for a home down payment in 1.5-2 years, and fixed deposits are recommended for safety. Finally, Amit Kohly, an NRI considering a switch from regular to direct mutual fund plans, is advised on potential tax implications and a gradual transition. This episode emphasizes the importance of informed financial decision-making in balancing family obligations and investment strategies.
Chapters:
(0:34 - 0:53) Introduction and Format Change
(0:55 - 3:47) Dilemma of Paying Sisters for Inherited Property
(3:55 - 6:57) Advice on EPF Withdrawal After Job Loss
(7:05 - 9:11) Increasing SIP Contributions and Managing Mutual Funds
(9:14 - 10:52) Investing a Windfall Bonus for Future Home Purchase
(10:54 - 13:0) Switching from Regular to Direct Mutual Fund Plans
https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_en/FAQ.php
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
In this episode, Monika discusses Sebi’s recent announcement of a new mutual fund category for high-net-worth investors. This new category will allow for higher-risk, potentially higher-return products, with a minimum investment of Rs 10 lakh. It aims to expand investment options without increasing risk in the broader market. Monika highlights the current limitations in mutual fund categories and explains how this change will give more flexibility in investment strategies. She will update listeners as more details emerge, especially regarding costs and fees.
Next, Monika covers the new rules for transferring financial products like mutual funds, stocks, and listed bonds. Sebi now allows up to 10 nominees and has simplified the inheritance process for easier management by heirs and joint owners, particularly for elderly or incapacitated investors.
In listener queries, Dr. Prateek Srivastava faces a dilemma about taking over his mother’s home loan. Monika suggests exploring options like splitting the loan burden between siblings or selling the house to reduce the financial strain while ensuring a valid will is in place. She also advises Shilpa K to keep her emergency fund safe in a large commercial bank rather than chasing higher returns in small finance banks. Lastly, Namit Saxena, who holds 40 mutual fund folios, is encouraged to streamline his portfolio to 6-8 funds, using tax exemptions to rebalance over time.
Chapters:
(0:32 - 4:47) SEBI’s New Mutual Fund Category for Risk Takers
(4:47 - 5:56) Capital Market Inheritance Made Easier
(6:24 - 10:54) Managing a Home Loan Dilemma
(10:57 - 12:28) Emergency Fund Safety in Small Finance Banks
(12:30 - 14:08) Streamlining a Messy Mutual Fund Portfolio
https://www.sebi.gov.in/media-and-notifications/press-releases/sep-2024/sebi-board-meeting_87154.html
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
In this episode, Monika discusses recent changes in life insurance policies that have resulted in improved surrender values for policyholders starting October 1, 2024. Previously, policyholders faced harsh penalties for exiting mid-term, but now they can recover more than 70% of their premiums even after the first payment, and nearly 90% after five payments. This is a significant step towards better treatment of investors, though the insurance industry may still try to navigate around these regulations.
Next, Monika clarifies that an SWP, or Systematic Withdrawal Plan, is not a standalone product but a method for withdrawing funds from a mutual fund. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how withdrawals can impact overall returns.
Lastly, Monika addresses listener queries, including Upasana's concerns about rising expense ratios in her mutual fund, Saurabh's questions about portfolio efficiency concerning capital gains taxes, and Visvesara's search for alternative investments after selling a property. She provides insights and advice to help listeners make informed decisions.
Chapters:
(00:32 - 00:29) Life Insurance Changes: A Long-Awaited Victory
(00:30 - 05:41) Understanding Surrender Value
(05:42 - 07:32) Decoding Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP)
(07:42 - 12:16) Expense Ratios: What You Need to Know
(12:19 - 14:25) Evaluating Investment Portfolios: Small Cases and Active Management
(14:28 - 17:23) Exploring Real Estate Alternatives
https://www.amfiindia.com/investor-corner/knowledge-center/Expense-Ratio.html
https://www.valueresearchonline.com/funds/selector/category/142/hybrid-dynamic-asset-allocation/?end-type=1&exclude=suspended-plans&plan-type=direct&tab=snapshot
https://www.valueresearchonline.com/my-investments/
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: inoutcreatives.com
Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi
In this episode, Monika presents an intriguing blend of insights and answers to listener questions.
First, she explores how several non-US countries are seeking alternatives to the dollar-based global payment system, particularly regarding cryptocurrency. She clarifies that this discussion isn't an investment recommendation but highlights its implications for the future of global transactions.
Next, Monika dives into a micro event: Airtel’s new app-based fixed deposit service that launched on September 1, 2024. This innovation aims to simplify FD investments by allowing users to choose deposits from various banks through an easy-to-use dashboard. She also shares some risks, especially regarding higher interest rates from smaller banks.
Finally, Monika addresses three listener questions: one asks whether to pay off a home loan given the changing tax landscape; another inquires about the potential benefits of smart beta funds compared to traditional index ETFs; and the last expresses frustration over unequal investment allocations between spouses, seeking advice on how to handle this with their financial advisor.
Chapters:
(00:38 - 02:04) Cryptocurrency: Alternative to Dollar-Based Payment Systems
(02:06 - 04:24) The Role of Crypto in International Trade: Russia and India
(04:26 - 07:17) Fixed Deposits: Airtel's App-Based Investment Service
(07:32 - 11:44) Home Loan Decisions: Balancing Tax Benefits and Financial Strategy
(11:46 - 15:57) Smart Beta Funds: Understanding Strategy-Based ETFs
(15:59 - 18:40) Portfolio Allocation Issues: A Case Study on Gender Bias in Financial Advisory
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi
Fixed Deposit Home Page - Airtel
Ayushman Bharat scheme: Why senior citizens over 70 need separate health insurance covers despite PM-JAY (moneycontrol.com)
https://cleartax.in/s/section-115bac-features-new-tax-regime-benefits
Can smart beta funds deliver on their promise of low risk, high returns? (moneycontrol.com)
Nifty200 Momentum 30 (niftyindices.com)
Strategy Indices (niftyindices.com)
india.fpsb.org/contact/
Monika brings a new format to her podcast from this episode onwards.
She will first tell you what a macro event means for you. This episode she tells you the impact of government spending on GDP growth and how that matters in your financial life.
Then she will unpack a micro event. This week it is the changes in the Public Provident Fund that go live from October 1 2024.
She then answers three listener questions. The first one has to do with when to sell in a bull market.
Next is a question on shifting to a more tax advantaged product than debt funds.
And last, a worry about planning mutual fund investments so that the kids can get the money without having to sell the funds.
Chapters:
(00:35 - 03:47) Government Spending and Its Impact on GDP Growth
(03:48 - 07:12) Changes to Public Provident Fund (PPF) Rules and Consolidating Financial Accounts
(07:47 - 10:49) When to Sell in a Bull Market and the Importance of Asset Allocation
(11:11 - 14:18) Shifting from Debt Funds to Arbitrage or Equity-Saving Schemes Post-Tax Changes
(14:25 – 17:17) Legacy Planning and Managing Expectations for Children's Inheritance
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
LinkedIn @MonikaHalan
Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi
From the challenge of starting one's financial journey to the intricacies of portfolio creation and the looming concern of retirement, Monika Halan addresses the most common money worries listeners have shared throughout the show. Tune in to learn why it's never too late to begin managing your money, the importance of diversified investments, and how to avoid common pitfalls with insurance products.
Monika also tackles pertinent questions about how to ensure financial security while working in a family business, whether you should get out of your insurance policy or see it through, health insurance for those with pre-existing diseases, and why you should not place emergency funds in cooperative and small-scale banks.
Chapters:
(00:31 - 07:29) Common Money Worries
(07:43 - 09:42) Financial Security While Working in a Family Business
(09:45 - 11:06) Should You Opt Out Of Your Insurance Policy?
(11:08 - 12:05) Health Insurance with a Pre-existing Disease
(12:07 - 13:19) Storing Emergency Funds in Small Scale Banks
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s column on the issue
https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/eat-the-rich-but-do-it-in-a-logical-way-101719846246923.html
Monika’s book on basic money management
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/
Monika’s book on mutual funds
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/
-funds/
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/
Calculators
https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
Twitter @MonikaHalan
Instagram @MonikaHalan
Facebook @MonikaHalan
This is a Maed In India Production; check us out at www.maedinindia.in
Creative Director: Mae Mariyam Thomas
Project Manager: Shaun Fanthome
Head of Audio: Kartik Kulkarni
Producer: Meghna Gulati
Sound Editor: Lakshman Parsuram
Artwork: Alika Gupta
The podcast currently has 50 episodes available.
16 Listeners
20 Listeners
17 Listeners
58 Listeners
29 Listeners
46 Listeners
2,097 Listeners
8 Listeners
37 Listeners
1,229 Listeners
372 Listeners
61 Listeners
1 Listeners
13 Listeners
11 Listeners
15 Listeners
1 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
2 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
6 Listeners
876 Listeners
0 Listeners
65 Listeners
21 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
13 Listeners