Let's Talk Money with Monika Halan

Maed in India
  • 4.9 (18)
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Let's Talk Money with Monika Halan

Let's Talk Money is your guide to financial stability and freedom. Join Monika Halan, a trusted financial expert, as she delves into a wide array of topics each week. From tackling debt to making friends with the stock market, from gold to mutual funds, Monika's insights are your compass to financial wellness. But that's not all! Monika's here to answer your money questions. Send them in, and she'll help you make informed decisions. It's time to take control of your financial destiny with Monika Halan. So, Let’s Talk Money!

  1. Should you Buy or Rent?

    22 HR AGO

    Should you Buy or Rent?

    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 ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠  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

    16 min
  2. Job loss, Direct vs Regular and Family Finances

    17 OCT

    Job loss, Direct vs Regular and Family Finances

    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 ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠  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

    14 min
  3. New Mutual Fund Category For Risk Takers

    10 OCT

    New Mutual Fund Category For Risk Takers

    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 ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠  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

    15 min
  4. Surrender Values, Expense Ratios and Real Estate

    3 OCT

    Surrender Values, Expense Ratios and Real Estate

    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 ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠  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

    19 min
  5. Cryptos, FDs and Smart Beta Funds

    26 SEPT

    Cryptos, FDs and Smart Beta Funds

    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 ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠  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 https://cleartax.in/s/old-tax-regime-vs-new-tax-regime 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/

    20 min
  6. When to Sell in a Bull Market

    19 SEPT

    When to Sell in a Bull Market

    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 mailme@monikahalan.com 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

    18 min
  7. Did You Know What I Found Common In Your Money Worries?

    12 SEPT

    Did You Know What I Found Common In Your Money Worries?

    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 mailme@monikahalan.com  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

    15 min
  8. How To Use Debt Products In Your Portfolio?

    5 SEPT

    How To Use Debt Products In Your Portfolio?

    In this episode, Monika Halan demystifies the concept of debt in investing. Learn how familiar products like bank FDs, bonds, and PPF fit into your financial strategy, providing stability and assured returns. Monika explains the role of debt products in balancing your portfolio and offers insights into using bond funds for various financial goals. Tune in to understand the nuances of debt investing and how it complements equity for a well-rounded portfolio. Monika also answers questions about whether you should invest in the NPS if one is already contributing to EPF, how to firm up your allocation and retirement corpus before marriage, and how to invest your gratuity amount for a short term duration.  Chapters: (00:31 - 05:15) The Importance Of Debt Products  (05:31 - 07:04) EPF vs NPS (07:07 - 08:52) Building A Corpus Before Marriage (08:53 - 11:11) Investing For Short Term If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at mailme@monikahalan.com  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 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

    12 min
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About

Let's Talk Money is your guide to financial stability and freedom. Join Monika Halan, a trusted financial expert, as she delves into a wide array of topics each week. From tackling debt to making friends with the stock market, from gold to mutual funds, Monika's insights are your compass to financial wellness. But that's not all! Monika's here to answer your money questions. Send them in, and she'll help you make informed decisions. It's time to take control of your financial destiny with Monika Halan. So, Let’s Talk Money!

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