Let's Talk Money with Monika Halan

Maed in India
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. Bank FD rates will fall. Lock in now.

    4 DAYS AGO

    Bank FD rates will fall. Lock in now.

    This week, Monika talks about the coming fall in bank fixed deposit (FD) rates as the Reserve Bank of India signals a low-interest rate environment ahead. With major banks like SBI already reducing savings account interest to 2.5%, Monika explains why risk-averse investors should act now to lock in current FD rates. She discusses strategies like laddering across time periods and breaking large deposits into smaller ones for flexibility. She also touches on senior citizen benefits, special FD schemes, and why she prefers sticking with larger banks over smaller or fintech-based FD platforms for safety. She then explains deposit insurance in India. Monika breaks down how DICGC covers your deposits up to ₹5 lakh per bank, including both principal and interest, and clarifies how coverage works if you hold accounts in multiple banks or under different account types. This helps listeners understand how to spread deposits smartly for maximum safety. In audience questions, Arvind asks whether he should surrender or make paid-up two LIC New Jeevan Anand policies bought early in his career, and seeks advice on getting health insurance for his senior citizen parents. Vishak wants to know how to deploy a large lump sum sitting idle in his bank account and whether to surrender an ongoing LIC policy. Finally, an anonymous listener shares how he’s coping financially after a recent job loss and asks whether he should pause mutual fund investments or continue them using his savings. Chapters: (00:33 – 05:44) Bank FD rates will fall: Why you should lock in now  (05:45 – 07:12) How deposit insurance protects your money (07:13 – 11:20) LIC surrender vs paid-up and getting health cover for parents (11:21 – 13:31) Deploying a lump sum and what to do with a dud LIC policy (13:32 – 16:21) Managing finances after a job loss: Building a cushion and staying on track 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
  2. World War 3? Should you get out of the market?

    26 JUN

    World War 3? Should you get out of the market?

    This week, Monika talks about the rising global war anxiety and how it’s triggering panic among investors. As conflicts erupt across the globe, the instinct to pull money out of the markets is growing—but is that the right move? With fears of nuclear escalation, many are tempted to book profits and flee to cash. But Monika explains why the better approach is to stay calm, focus on asset allocation, and avoid impulsive financial decisions driven by headlines. India, despite external threats, remains on a strong economic footing—with 6.5% GDP growth, healthy macro indicators, and strategic restraint. While we cannot control global turmoil, we can build resilient portfolios that are better prepared for long-term uncertainty. She then explains what a "risk asset" really is—investments like stocks or real estate whose prices fluctuate and that carry a risk of capital loss. These stand in contrast to low-risk assets like PPF or fixed deposits, which offer capital protection but lower returns. Monika lays out why investors choose risk assets in the first place: for higher returns over the long term. But she also emphasizes that this risk must be balanced with an appropriate time horizon and the right mix of stable, low-risk assets for peace of mind. In listener questions, Samparth asks whether his ₹50 lakh upfront investment for his child's education is enough and seeks advice on raising financially aware children. Amit wonders why the total expense ratio matters when mutual fund returns are already reported post-cost. Dr. Jayesh Waghulde asks whether he should move from mutual funds to high dividend-yield stocks or stick to a mutual fund strategy after receiving a lump sum. Chapters: (00:31 – 07:33) War clouds, worried investors: What to do when conflict scares you out of the market (07:34 – 08:23) What is a risk asset and why do we choose them anyway? (08:24 – 13:15) Children’s education and values: Planning, protecting, and parenting with money (13:16 – 16:13) Do expense ratios matter when returns are already declared? (16:14 – 18:14) Trading vs mutual funds: A reminder to avoid fake profiles and risky shortcuts https://www.amfiindia.com/investor-corner/knowledge-center/Expense-Ratio.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 ⁠⁠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

    19 min
  3. Have You Been Trapped By Your Bank?

    19 JUN

    Have You Been Trapped By Your Bank?

    This week, Monika highlights how Indian banks are aggressively mis-selling financial products, especially to the elderly and vulnerable. A recent experience with her father at a bank shows just how predatory these practices have become. New moves by the Ministry of Finance and RBI signal growing concern—banks have now been told to stop staff incentives for insurance sales, and the RBI is exploring stricter guidelines. A revealing fintech report shows banks earned over ₹21,000 crore in FY24 from commissions, often from unsuitable product sales. Nearly half of all life insurance policies are discontinued within five years, and poor product design combined with a commission-first mindset has created a system stacked against customers. Monika calls on listeners to share their own experiences and push for change using the hashtag #StopMisselling. She also breaks down what "mis-selling" really means. It’s not just bad advice—it involves deliberately hiding product risks, recommending financial instruments based on commissions instead of customer need, and bundling high-cost products with simple banking services like FDs or loans. Victims are often the least protected: senior citizens, low-income families, and those unfamiliar with financial jargon. Monika walks through key red flags to watch out for at the bank and shares tips on how to avoid being manipulated into buying harmful financial products. In listener questions, a young Chartered Accountant, Hardik Solanki, asks for guidance on switching careers from accounting to financial advising. Another listener, Anjana, 24, seeks advice on buying term insurance and whether riders or limited pay options make sense. A third listener, Ujjawal, wants to know how to withdraw funds efficiently in retirement after 25 years of investing. Chapters: (00:30 – 08:41) Shark-infested banks: How mis-selling became a national crisis and what’s finally changing (08:42 – 09:57) Decoding mis-selling: What it means, what it looks like, who it targets (10:00 – 14:00) Switching to financial advisory: Qualifications, risks, and the long game (14:01 – 16:00) Term insurance at 24: Do you even need it and what riders to look at (16:01 – 19:06) Retirement withdrawals: Rebalancing equity, debt, and staying the course https://1financemagazine.com/surveys/mis-selling-menace https://x.com/BahlKanan/status/1932379980237095209 https://www.nism.ac.in/investment-adviser-level-1/ https://www.sebi.gov.in/legal/regulations/aug-2023/securities-and-exchange-board-of-india-investment-advisers-regulations-2013-last-amended-on-august-18-2023-_76357.html https://aria.org.in/ 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

    20 min
  4. Why RBI’s Rate Cuts Are A Good Signal

    12 JUN

    Why RBI’s Rate Cuts Are A Good Signal

    This week, Monika unpacks the Reserve Bank of India’s surprise 50 basis point cut in the repo rate—the third such cut this year, bringing the rate down to 5.5%. Alongside this, the central bank announced a phased reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) from 4% to 3%, injecting ₹2.5 trillion into the banking system. These moves signal a clear shift to an easy money policy—one that indicates inflation is under control and a strong push for growth is underway. Lower interest rates will reduce borrowing costs, encourage private investment, and boost business activity, while also lowering EMIs and loan rates. However, fixed deposit rates are likely to drop, making it a good time to lock in existing returns. With inflation forecast at 3.7% and GDP growth at 6.5%, this policy shift marks the beginning of a new growth cycle, with monetary and fiscal strategies finally working in sync. She also breaks down a key monetary policy term—Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR). Unlike CRR, the SLR is the portion of a bank’s deposits that must be held in liquid assets like cash or government bonds. It remains steady at 18%, and plays a crucial role in maintaining banking system health. Monika helps listeners understand how the repo rate, CRR, and SLR interact to shape credit flow, manage inflation, and support the economy. In listener questions, one listener seeks advice on whether to surrender or make a life insurance policy paid-up, prompting a walk-through of long-term return comparisons across options. Another listener asks how to find trustworthy financial guidance and upskill in money matters, and is directed to educational resources and fee-only financial planners. A third listener asks about investing for elderly parents, and the advice is to build personal financial stability first before offering financial support to others. Chapters: (00:31 – 07:18) RBI’s Easy Money Signal: Repo Rate, CRR, and Growth Forecasts (07:19 – 08:30) Understanding SLR: The Third Key Monetary Tool (08:31 – 13:25) Should I Surrender or Make My Policy Paid-Up? (13:26 – 15:48) How to Start Financial Planning in Your 50s (15:49 – 17:31) Helping Parents Financially: What Should You Prioritise? https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=60605 https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=12858&Mode=0 https://tradingeconomics.com/india/interest-rate http://www.Aria.org.in 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

    19 min
  5. GDP Shrugs Off The Slowdown

    5 JUN

    GDP Shrugs Off The Slowdown

    This week, Monika unpacks India’s fourth quarter GDP growth of 7.4%, which lifts the annual rate to 6.5% and suggests the slowdown may be over. Despite global challenges, India remains the fastest-growing large economy, driven by strong construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. Private investment is picking up, per capita GDP has nearly doubled in a decade, and sectors like smartphone exports and fisheries point to deeper structural shifts. Monika explains why this rebound looks cyclical rather than structural, and why India’s growth path appears more sustainable going forward. Next, Monika clarifies the difference between nominal and real GDP. She explains that while nominal GDP reflects the total value of goods and services at current market prices, real GDP strips out the effects of inflation to offer a clearer view of actual economic growth. Understanding this difference is crucial when interpreting GDP trends, especially in inflationary times. In listener questions, Mr Gupta asks whether he should reduce his 60% equity exposure as he nears retirement and how to manage buying a home post-retirement without taking on new loans. Srinivas wants to know whether short-term geopolitical tensions should prompt mutual fund withdrawals, and Dr Kirti Arora, just beginning her investment journey, seeks clarity on whether consistently outperforming large-cap active funds are better than index funds. Monika responds with thoughtful, detailed guidance rooted in sound financial strategy and long-term perspective. Chapters: (00:34 – 07:54) India’s Growth Outlook: Shrugging Off the Slowdown (07:55 – 09:10) Nominal vs Real GDP: Understanding the Difference (09:25 – 15:14) Retirement Planning Essentials: Equity Allocation and Funding Your New Home (15:15 – 17:44) Navigating Market Volatility: Should You Stay Invested in Mutual Funds During Crisis? (17:45 – 19:57) Active vs Passive Large-Cap Funds: Making Informed Investment Choices https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2132688 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

    21 min
  6. Understand the Bond Market

    29 MAY

    Understand the Bond Market

    This week, Monika returns from a whirlwind trip to Berlin and Hamburg with reflections on unpredictable European weather and a newfound appreciation for the Delhi heat. Back at her desk, she dives straight into the world of bonds—those unassuming financial instruments that actually run the show when it comes to signaling the health of an economy. Monika explains why the bond market is far more closely watched than the stock market and what it’s been saying about India’s growth story in a global economy full of mixed signals. She breaks down the mechanics of bonds and bond yields in her trademark relatable style, comparing them to FDs and detailing how they reflect changing interest rates, inflation, and creditworthiness. With examples from the US bond market’s reactions to policy shifts and deficits, Monika shows how yields offer a real-time assessment of trust in a country’s economic direction. For India, the recent fall in bond yields alongside strong macroeconomic numbers signals growing confidence among investors and hints at a positive future. The listener questions begin with anonymous from Pune, who is balancing a ₹60 lakh home loan and wants to know whether to prepay the loan or start a ₹50,000 monthly SIP for retirement, while also asking about the need for term insurance for a non-earning spouse. Vaibhav Verma is considering withdrawing from his stock and PF portfolio to buy a ₹20 lakh plot and seeks advice on whether property is a wise investment in the long term. And Naman Nihalani, a 22-year-old MBA student preparing for a financially responsible future, wants help building a budget, handling an education loan, and planning long-term investments to manage life’s many responsibilities. Chapters: (00:30 - 07:20) Why Bonds Are the Real Boss of the Economy (07:21 - 09:10) How Bond Yields Move and What They Signal (09:39 - 16:50) Should I Prepay My Home Loan or Start Retirement SIPs? (16:51 - 19:34) Is Buying a Plot Better Than Mutual Funds for Long-Term Investing? (19:35 - 21:42) How Can a 22-Year-Old Plan Finances for the Future? 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

    23 min
  7. Is a Luxury Bag an Investment?

    22 MAY

    Is a Luxury Bag an Investment?

    This week, Monika tackles a controversial question that might land her in hot water with many women: is a luxury bag truly an investment? From silk saris to high-end handbags, these purchases are often labeled as financial assets. But Monika breaks down what qualifies as an actual investment and whether these luxury items really fit the bill—or if they’re simply expensive indulgences. With her trademark clarity and humor, she walks through the difference between collectibles and income- or profit-generating assets. Next, Monika explains the term GDP—Gross Domestic Product—a phrase that’s often used but rarely understood in everyday life. What does it really measure? Why is it important? And how does it affect us? She gives a clear and relatable overview, showing how the value of everything produced within a country tells us about its economic health. With a breakdown of the GDP formula and India’s consumer-driven economy, this segment offers a strong foundation for understanding headlines and economic reports. The Q&A section begins with Anonymous, who wants to understand which equity mutual fund categories in India can invest in foreign shares and whether there are specific limits involved. Somya Shrivastava, a PSU manager, seeks advice on when to rebalance and evaluate her mutual fund portfolio. Mohit Khera asks if it’s a good idea to invest ₹50 lakhs in a Nifty 50 fund and start an SWP for his parents, while Akila Shivkumar wants to know when it makes sense to book profits on her long-term SIP investments. Chapters: (00:33-04:42) Is a luxury bag an investment? (04:43-06:18) What is GDP and why it matters (06:22-09:39) Which mutual funds can invest in foreign stocks? (09:40-12:06) How to manage and rebalance your mutual fund portfolio (12:07-12:57) Is SWP from equity funds a good idea for parents? (12:58-14:41) When should you book profits in mutual funds? https://www.valueresearchonline.com/funds/selector/category/118/equity-international/?end-type=1&plan-type=direct&exclude=suspended-plans https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/markets/with-7-billion-limit-breached-only-a-few-mf-schemes-offer-overseas-equity-exposure-here-s-the-list-of-schemes-12971900.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 ⁠⁠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

    16 min
  8. Did you Hear What Warren Buffett Said To You Last Week?

    8 MAY

    Did you Hear What Warren Buffett Said To You Last Week?

    What is it about Warren Buffett that continues to inspire millions of investors across the globe? This week, Monika dives into the key highlights from the Berkshire Hathaway annual shareholder meeting held on May 3, 2025. In what could be described as the “Woodstock for Capitalists,” over 20,000 people gathered to listen to the Oracle of Omaha—perhaps for the last time, as Buffett announced his decision to step down at the end of this year. With his 95th birthday approaching, the baton will pass to Vice Chairman Greg Abel, marking the end of an extraordinary era. Monika walks us through some of Buffett’s most impactful messages over the years—from his legendary $1 million bet against hedge funds to his consistent promotion of low-cost index investing for retail investors. A particularly powerful moment this year came in response to a question about market volatility, where Buffett warned that if a 15% drop in portfolio value causes fear or panic, an investor likely needs a new philosophy. Markets will continue to surprise, he said, and investors must learn to check emotions at the door. Monika echoes this wisdom with her own tools for riding market ups and downs—starting with emergency funds, insurance, and a safety buffer of fixed-income products. Listener questions this week reflect a deepening engagement with personal finance and investing. Neha writes in asking whether she should switch her mutual fund investments from a regular plan to a direct plan, given the high total expense ratio. Another listener shares an anonymous and difficult situation involving a financially reckless parent, inherited debt risks, and questions about overseas investing and portfolio tracking. And Smitha from Chennai asks for help in setting up a three-account flow system within a single-income household, as she juggles daily expenses, investing, and asset ownership alongside her spouse. Chapters: (00:00-00:00) Buffett's retirement and legacy (00:00-00:00) Lessons in passive investing from Buffett’s million-dollar bet (00:00-00:00) Regular vs direct mutual funds: what should you choose? (00:00-00:00) How to protect your finances from family debt (00:00-00:00) Managing money as a single-income household If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠  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

    23 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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