Is It Good to Fund Your Investment with a Personal Loan?

With the rise of available loans and investment options in India, an increasing number of investors seem to opt for unsecured loans to invest in equity funds and Initial Public Offers to earn a profit and repay the loan. As the equity market stabilizes in the last fiscal quarters and the Sensex reaches an all-time high, people are capitalizing borrowed money to earn a substantial return against their investment.

There are certain things that an investor should look out for before they put borrowed money into investments. They should know about the best short term investments, along with the benchmark index to earn the maximum returns at the end of each year.

Is it right to fund your investment with a loan?

You can fund your investment options in India with a loan if you take care of a few things. For example, you should not put your money into an investment scheme that will mature after your credit is due. You should also consider whether the return on the investment is higher than the sum of credit. If the benchmark index (Nifty) shows returns of at least 13% annually, you will earn approximately 24% on your investment portfolio for the years ahead.




A personal loan is one of the best options if you want to invest the borrowed money. Personal loans come with various features and benefits that can assist you to earn the highest against your investment. Financial institutions offer flexible tenors on this type of unsecured loans, which puts less strain on your finances and eliminates any worries about losing an asset in case you fail to repay in time.

Things to look out for before investing

If you are looking for how to apply for a personal loan to invest the funds, you should check out a few precautions before you invest that money in the market. Let’s take a look.

• Have an alternate source of income – Financial experts suggest borrowers to have an alternative source of income to pay the EMIs if they plan to invest the funds from such loans into investment options in India. Systematic withdrawal from the market to pay the EMI can prove detrimental if you want to earn a high return.
• Carefully choosing the investment plans – Ideally, you should invest in the best investment plans for 3 years or 4 years. These often carry stock options that are fundamentally strong, and you also won’t have to pay for short-term capital gains.
• Check the loan rates – The interest rates on a personal loan play a critical factor to determine you get a substantial return. If you choose an advance with a high rate of interest, you will have to hand over a significant amount of money to the lender when the payment gets due. You will also pay larger EMIs during the repayment tenor.
• Opt for low interest rate personal loans - To earn the best returns without straining your finances during the loan tenor. You can use a personal loan EMI calculator to determine a preferred monthly installment rate for repayments.
• Know about additional charges and fees – Along with the interest rates, you should also learn whether a lender asks for any fees and charges. Ideally, you should check it while you look for your personal loan eligibility criteria.

Various financial institutions charge a minimum processing fee and interest rate on personal loans.

• Know about the investment option – Before you invest in a particular stock or mutual fund, know how it performed since it was introduced to the market. It will help you shortlist the best investment options in India and prevent you from losing money.
• Understand the risk level – Certain investment schemes come with more risk but higher returns. You should opt for a scheme that you are comfortable with. For example, if you prefer a safer investment with guaranteed returns, you can put the money in fixed or recurring deposits or government debt bonds.

Investments via funds from a personal loan should be a careful and deliberate task with proper planning and strategies. While it is easy to meet a personal loan eligibility, you should consider the pros and cons of the credit along with the investment option itself to ensure a guaranteed gain.

Preparing for the Unexpected: 4 Tips to Consider if Your Spouse Can’t Work Anymore

When the unthinkable occurs, it can be easy to get stuck on all of the “what ifs” that run through our heads: Am I the family breadwinner now? What happens to the kids if something happens to me too? Fortunately, there are many steps you and your partner can take to ensure a stable financial future for your family.

See If Your Spouse Is Eligible for Unemployment

If your spouse is still able to work in some capacity, unemployment is a great way to providing stable income for your family during the job hunt. According to the Department of Labor, your spouse is eligible for unemployment as long as they are unemployed through no fault of their own and they meet state requirements for time worked or wages earned. 

They may be required to document their search for a new job weekly or biweekly in order to continue receiving benefits. Laws vary based on state and based on which type of unemployment your spouse is applying for.

Consider Working from Home

Working from home can give your spouse a greater sense of confidence and autonomy than you might expect. The online workforce has a variety of engaging jobs from content creation to being a virtual assistant. 





Freelancing platforms like Upwork or Textbroker can help your spouse get started building their new business and finding clients. However, freelancing isn’t always reliable; slow seasons and competition make the online market an iffy option for families with immediate financial needs.

File for Disability

If your spouse is totally unable to work, filing for disability can take much of the financial pressure off of you and your family. Social Security disability is available to anyone that has worked in a job covered by Social Security that also has a medical condition meeting Social Security’s definition of disability. 

Consider streamlining the application and approval process by using Social Security disability attorney services to make sure you and your spouse receive the amount of monthly compensation you deserve.

Stay Calm and Avoid Catastrophic Thinking

The most important thing to do when life throws you a curveball is to avoid catastrophic thinking. Spend a little time everyday focusing on the positives in your life. It’s important to separate the person from the pain; unemployment and disability place strain on any marriage, making it vital to lean towards each other rather than away from each other during this trying time. 

Consider setting aside time every week to spend focusing on your romantic relationship with your spouse, whether it be family dinner night or watching television together.

No one ever wants to deal with another of life’s trials, and if your spouse is struggling, chances are that you are too. Always remember why you got married in the first place and never forget the age-old adage: this too shall pass.

Teach Yourself the Basics of Business Without the College Fees: Recommended Reading for Tech Entrepreneurs

Once you’ve found the perfect tech idea, it’s time to get under the noses of investors and learn more about the workings of the business world. Every eager tech entrepreneur must start somewhere and take some time to build their skills and knowledge. If you don’t have the cash to spend on college courses or business workshops, then we recommend an alternative cost-effective option… head to your local bookstore and hunt down the top reads for start-ups.

Why not learn from books written by well-renowned business leaders and entrepreneurs? We’ve called in the help of Where The Trade Buys, a leading supplier of display panels. Grab some inspiration from their recommended reads for entrepreneurs starting out on their business journey.

The Industries of the Future by Alec Ross

Penned by the former Senior Advisor for Innovation to Hillary Clinton during her time as Secretary of State, Alec Ross released this book in 2016 and just as relevant as it was back then. The New York Times bestseller will always ensure that you’re one step ahead and will ensure that you acquire the right information that is extremely valuable.

The books author has been influenced by some of the most powerful people in the tech industry and has even been granted access to them through his professional position. Unlike no other, you’ll learn more about the sector’s quickest advancements, including cyber security and robotics!

Bold: How to Go Big, Create Wealth and Impact The World by Peter Diamandis and Steven Kotler

If you’re launching your own business, this book should be early on your list. With two authors, two opinions and two different experiences being brought to the table, you’ll be able to understand how businesses can go from an initial idea to a multi-million-pound corporation using innovative tech such as 3D printing. 





This book understands the importance of learning from the best, and even has the secrets Richard Branson lives by which could help you when deciding on direction. From building the company itself to orchestrating impulsive campaigns, this book is great for any creative with big dreams.

The Inevitable: Understanding the 12 Technological Forces That Will Shape Our Future by Kevin Kelly

Former Executive Editor of Wired Magazine, Kevin Kelly, released this book in 2016 which forecasts the next three decades of technology. In this book, Kelly perfectly demonstrates how various technological forces will overlap, mix and co-depend on each other — something that a lot of firms aren’t thinking about already, but should be.

Within this book, you’ll be able to see how tech will continue to impact our day-to-day lives. Make sure you’re prepared for the inevitable changes and stay ahead of your competition.

How Google Works by Eric Schmidt and Jonathan Rosenberg

Everyone’s heard of Google — even those who try and avoid technology like the plague. Written by two Google executives, this book takes us inside of the biggest firm on the planet and reveals how its been able to stay on top for so long.

By reading this book, you’ll be able to view the corporate strategy used by Google, as well as an insight to its workplace culture; this includes collaborative decision-making, management and the overall philosophy of the company. Make sure this one is on your list, especially if you want to use your creativity to push your brand forward.

Networking Like a Pro by Ivan R. Misner

If you’re new to your sector, this book will be your Bible. It’s all about networking, which is crucial when it comes to leaving your mark among industry peers. From this read, you’ll learn how to boost your knowledge and combat any challenges that could be faced.

If you want to leave a lasting impression on both your customers and competitors, you must create genuine relationships that could be beneficial in the future. With tools, templates and a results-measuring system to help you action your networking strategy and make valuable business connections.

Which book will you be reading first?

How Consumers Should Be Choosing Homeowners Insurance

Finding the best homeowners insurance company that fits your needs can be challenging, even if you’ve gone through the process before. There are so many elements to take into consideration while shopping around, and consumers should keep these tips in mind when choosing their homeowners insurance.

Identify The Type of Policy You Need

Know that not all insurance policies are created equal. While many homeowners opt for the basic form (HO-2) or special form (HO-3), the type of dwelling you have purchased also plays into the policy as well; older homes, mobile homes, condos and townhouses are all considered and need different types of policies. Here’s how it’s broken down:

• HO-2: Only covers damage that’s caused by an event listed within the policy.
• HO-3: General homeowners insurance policy that safeguards against perils except for specific acts named within the plan.
• HO-5: Premium homeowners insurance policy that protects recently erected structures and safeguards against perils except for specific acts named within the policy.
• HO-6: A Homeowners insurance policy for condos as well as liability and personal property.
• HO-7: Insurance that is generally the same as HO-3, but for mobile homes.
• HO-8: Premium policy for older homes. Similar to the HO-2 policy.

For reference, damages covered in HO-2 insurance are generally the same for all companies:

• Fire
• Lightning
• Wind
• Hail
• Snow and Sleet
• Damage caused by the weight of ice
• Smoke
• Falling objects
• Riot or civil commotion
• Vandalism
• Theft
• Damage caused by vehicles or aircraft
• Damage caused by "accidental" bursting or overflowing from plumbing, heating, or AC systems

Getting To Know Your Location

After you’ve identified the type of coverage that works for you and your dwelling, you’ll also need to assess fine print or exclusions in your policy due to your area. Standard home insurance will not cover natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. So, if you live in an area that has these types of risks, you may have to pay more for additional coverage. Identifying the best homeowners insurance in your state is important as not all insurance companies write in each state.

Choosing The Cost and Level of Coverage

While many factors come into play to determine the cost of your coverage, one you need to think about is deductibles. This is the amount you pay upfront if an accident occurs and you file a claim. For example, if you choose to bump your deductible from $500 to $1000, you can save more on your premium. Just be sure you can easily pay the set deductible amount before your insurance kicks in! 





The next thing you’ll have to consider is the two levels of coverage. One is the replacement cost, which will pay the full cost of replacing your home or property up to a certain amount, or the actual cash value which gives you the cost of the item or dwelling. Note that this will depreciate over time. Most tend to go with replacement cost, and it is generally the one available within average insurance policies.

Research Ratings & Reviews

While it sounds like something that’s a no brainer, many shopping around for homeowners insurance do not take the time to actually sit down and research the companies. Clearsurance has crowdsourced ratings and reviews of companies so you can learn from the experiences other homeowners have had. For instance, you could identify Amica as a company you’re interested in and then read Amica insurance reviews from consumers to see what the company does well and what it doesn’t do well.

Don’t Be Shy To Ask About Discounts

Going with the cheapest plan shouldn’t be how you find ways to save. Don’t be shy to ask about discounts you can receive if you go with certain insurance companies and know that many offer some sort of savings on the following:

• Bundling (insuring your home and auto through the same company)
• Burglar alarms
• Dead-bolt locks
• Smoke detectors
• High-tech sprinklers that alert first responders

Once you feel confident in your choice, and you’re sure the insurance reviews and ratings reflect the homeowners company that is right for you - it’s time to make your decision. Making a choice with these educated steps will surely help you in the future when seeking other types of insurance!

Budgeting for Seniors: 4 Common Post-Retirement Expenses

Calculating the costs of retirement isn't always as straightforward as it seems. Certainly you will want to determine your monthly medical costs, mortgage or rent costs, food budget, transportation costs, and more. But there are also several unexpected costs that can come up during retirement. 

Since most people live on a fixed income during this time of their lives, the unexpected costs can eat away at your nest egg. As a result, it is vital to be prepared for the expenses of life as a retiree. Here are four common post-retirement expenses.

Home Repairs

As a retiree, it's possible you may have lived in your home for your entire adult life. After a while, homes can suffer and deteriorate because of inclement weather, accidents, and general wear and tear. 

Other times, structural incidences can occur without your knowledge such as a pipe bursting, mold infestation, and termite damage and turn into a serious issue. Lawn care, snow removal, and basic home maintenance can also pile up. As you get older, it can become much more difficult to do chores if you have arthritis or persistent pain. 

If you find yourself unwilling or unable to keep up with these tasks, you may want to consider downsizing to a condo, smaller house, or a retirement community to make these maintenance tasks and issues nonexistent or at least less stressful.

Travel

Retirement is a good time to see the world since you have some extra free time on your hands. It's exciting to see the world in your golden years and make new memories with those you love. 




Be sure you know what you’re getting into before committing to anything. If you’d like to see many different places or have a preference for private tours, be sure your budget can accommodate that. Be strict with your vacation budgets and always be on the lookout for deals and steals.

Healthcare

As you get older, the amount of medical expenses often goes up as health issues worsen or surface. Many medical issues are associated with age and require expensive treatments and medications. 

For example, if you fall and injure yourself, recovery is more difficult and takes longer than it did when you were younger. Plus, your bones are much more fragile when you're older, so you have to be more careful. Additionally, you may need things like general skincare help, denture repair, and vision care.

Expenses for Adult Children

Just because your kids grow up and move out doesn’t mean you won’t feel inclined to help them out financially. An adult child may get married and need help with wedding expenses or maybe even need help with purchasing basic necessities for your grandchildren if they’re down on their luck. You will probably want to help as much as you can. Be sure to be smart about your spending and saving.

Post-retirement expenses are common and unique to each senior. Now that you are aware, you can plan your budget and savings for the future you want to have.

Which is the Best Choice to Invest? FD vs Savings Accounts!

Investors prefer risk-free investment schemes that offer maximum return against the money they put in. There are several such schemes available in the Indian financial market.However, fixed deposits and savings accounts are by far the most preferred options amongst them.

FDs are a form of term deposits that allow you to invest a certain amount for a fixed tenor. That amount earns interest over the period,and you receive the accumulated return along with the principal amount when the FD matures.





A savings account is a type of deposit account provided by various financial institutions.You can earn a modest rate of interest against your funds; however, the percentage is significantly low compared to the FD interest rate.

Both fixed deposit and savings account have several features and benefits that might be useful for certain types of investors. You should carefully consider the advantages of both these schemes to determine where to invest in.

Here are some of the features that differentiate between fixed deposits vs savings accounts.

FD vs savings account

• Interest rate – FDs generally offer a higher interest rate than a savings account. Certain financial institutions offer up to 8.75% interest on FDs. And, savings accounts come with up to 4% interest per annum, although this rate varies between different financial organisations and can change according to the amount you deposit.

The higher interest rate of FDs allows you to grow your invested amount much quicker. It is one of the primary reasons why people prefer fixed deposits over a savings account while investing for a longer term.

• Assured return –Fixed deposits are independent of market fluctuations which make them ideal for investors who want a guaranteed return. The rate of interest is decided when you open the scheme and stays fixed throughout the tenor.

Savings accounts offer either fixed or floating interest rates. Floating rate of interest is market dependent and can decrease if the financial market takes a hit or the government decides to reduce the repo rate. It makes savings accounts comparatively more vulnerable to market fluctuations.

• Benefits for senior citizens – Both FDs and savings account offer several add-on benefits for senior citizens. For example, the Fixed Deposit for senior citizens offered by Bajaj Finserv accrues0.35% additional interest rate above the regular amount, increasing the total rate to approximately 9.10%.

Savings accounts generally offer benefits such as higher withdrawal limit and interest rate for senior citizens.However, maintaining a savings account can often be difficult for a retired person.

On the other hand,in an FD, the full investable amount is deposited at a time while opening the account. Hence, it is ideal for senior citizens as they can put in a huge portion of their savings and allow it to accumulate interest over time.

Also, FDs are ideal for someone who wants to invest a sum of money and earn a guaranteed return when the scheme matures. It can significantly increase the investor’s wealth and help him or her achieve financial freedom in a short period.