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Digital Wallet vs Net Banking - A Complete Comparison

Find out all there is to know about differences between digital wallets and netbanking in India
5 min read

Net banking is an online banking service offered by banks that allow customers to manage their accounts

Digital wallets are mobile apps that store money, allow customers to make payments, and transfer money

Net banking and digital wallets are both useful tools that make online payments easier and more secure.

However, it’s important to understand the differences between them in order to make the right choice for your needs.

Net Banking and Digital Wallet Features Compared

Feature Net Banking Digital Wallet
Definition Online banking service offered by banks that allows customers to conduct various financial transactions through the internet Mobile app or web-based service that stores payment information for making online purchases, money transfers, and bill payments
Functionality Allows users to manage their bank accounts, view account balances, transfer funds, pay bills, and perform other banking transactions Enables users to make purchases, send money to other users, pay bills, and recharge mobile phones and other prepaid services
Payment options Linked to a bank account, and payments are made directly from the account Can be linked to a bank account, credit/debit card, or prepaid card
Security Uses multi-factor authentication, such as OTP (one-time password) or biometric authentication, to ensure secure access to the account Uses encryption technology and passwords to protect user information and transactions
Fees Usually free of charge, but some banks may charge fees for certain transactions May charge fees for certain transactions, such as loading money into the wallet or transferring funds to a bank account
Availability Requires a bank account and internet banking facility provided by the bank Can be used by anyone with a smartphone or internet connection
Limitations Transactions are limited by the user's bank account balance and daily transaction limits set by the bank Transactions are limited by the balance in the wallet and the daily transaction limits set by the wallet provider

Net banking is a service offered by banks that allows customers to access their accounts and make transactions online.

Digital wallet, on the other hand, is a type of electronic payment system that allows customers to securely store their payment information and make payments. Net banking is a great way to manage your finances, while digital wallets make it easy to make payments on the go.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Netbanking?

Feature Advantages of Net Banking Disadvantages of Net Banking
Convenience Can be accessed 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection May have technical issues, such as slow loading or website crashes
Time-saving Can be used to perform various transactions such as fund transfers, bill payments, and account statements in a few clicks May have transaction processing delays due to network connectivity or system issues
Cost-effective Many banks offer free net banking services, reducing the need for physical bank visits and ATM usage Some banks may charge fees for certain transactions, such as fund transfers or monthly account statements
Accessibility Can be used by anyone with a bank account and internet banking facility provided by the bank Requires a stable internet connection and compatible devices such as computers, smartphones or tablets
Record keeping Provides access to account statements, transaction history, and other financial information that can be easily downloaded or printed May have errors or discrepancies in account statements

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Digital Wallets?

Feature Advantages of Digital Wallet Disadvantages of Digital Wallet
Convenience Allows for quick and easy payments, eliminating the need for carrying cash or cards Limited acceptance in physical stores and may not be accepted in certain online stores
Time-saving Can store multiple payment options, reducing the need to enter payment details repeatedly Possible transaction failures due to technical glitches or server maintenance
Cost-effective Offers cashback and discounts on transactions, reducing the overall cost of purchases May have additional charges for loading money into the wallet or transferring funds to a bank account
Accessibility Offers ease of access to multiple payment options, reducing the need for carrying cash or cards Requires smartphone compatibility and may have compatibility issues with certain mobile operating systems
Record keeping Offers real-time transaction updates and digital receipts, providing an easy way to track expenses Requires regular maintenance and updating of the app or software

Net banking is like having a bank branch available to you at all times through the internet. Just like a bank branch, net banking allows you to perform various banking transactions such as fund transfers, bill payments, and account statements. You can access it from anywhere with an internet connection, and it requires you to have a bank account.

On the other hand, a digital wallet is like having a virtual wallet in your pocket. It stores payment information for making online purchases, money transfers, and bill payments. You can access it from your smartphone or computer, and it allows you to make quick and easy payments without the need to carry cash or cards. It requires you to link it to a bank account, credit/debit card, or prepaid card.

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Risk Management for Indian Investors (You)

A long-ish guide to understanding Risk Management for smart Indians like you.
5 min read

We all want to save and invest our hard-earned money to secure our future.

However, while investing in the stock market or other asset classes is a great way to build wealth over time, it also carries certain risks.

Understanding these risks and taking steps to manage them can help you protect your investments and create a more secure financial future. 

In this article, we’ll provide you with tips on how to manage risk in Indian investments. We’ll discuss the different types of risks, how to identify them, and how to minimize them to maximize your profits.

What is a Risk in Investing ?

Let’s start by talking about what risk is. Risk is essentially the chance of something going wrong in a financial situation.

For example, if you’re investing in stocks, there is a risk that the stock prices could go down instead of up.

Every financial decision carries some level of risk, so it’s important to be aware of what risks you’re taking and how to minimize them.

Types of Risks

In India, there are two main types of risks that investors must consider. Let’s take a look at each and discuss how to manage them. 

  • Market risk
  • Non - Market risks

When it comes to managing finances, it's important to understand the difference between market risks and non-market risks. 

Market risks are risks associated with investments in the stock market. Market risk is the risk that the value of your investments will go down due to changes in market conditions.

This type of risk is generally out of your control. This could be due to macroeconomic factors such as a recession or more specific factors such as a company’s stock price dropping.

It's important to spread your investments across different asset classes, industries, and countries to reduce market risk. This will help to spread your risk, so that if one investment does not perform well, the other investments may still be profitable. 

Non-market risks are associated with other financial instruments like insurance and debt.

Non-market risk comes from external factors such as natural disasters, political instability, and regulations.

To manage this type of risk, you need to have a good understanding of the current market conditions and make sure you have adequate insurance coverage in case of any unexpected losses.

Let’s look at an example. Say you are an investor looking to make some money in the stock market. You’ve researched the stock you want to buy, and you’re confident it’s a good investment. However, there’s always the risk of the stock’s price going down due to market conditions. That’s a market risk.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to invest in a fixed deposit, there’s the risk that the bank can default on your investment.

This is a non-market risk because it’s not related to the stock market.

Different types of market risks include market volatility, liquidity risk, and currency risk. 

  • Market volatility is the risk of the stock price changing due to market conditions. 
  • Liquidity risk is the risk of not being able to sell your stock when you need to. 
  • Currency risk is the risk of the currency you’re investing in depreciating.

Non-market risks include inflation risk, default risk, and exchange rate risk

  • Inflation risk is the risk of the value of your money depreciating due to inflation. 
  • Default risk is the risk of the company or bank you’ve invested in defaulting on your investment. 
  • exchange rate risk is the risk of the currency you’re investing in depreciating.
  • Credit risk is the risk of a borrower failing to repay a loan. This type of risk is typically associated with banks and other financial institutions that make loans. It is also associated with investments such as bonds, since the issuer may default on their payment. 

How to Identify risks?

Now that you know the types of risks, it’s time to talk about how to identify these risks and how to minimize them. One of the best ways to identify risks is to do research. Researching the stock market, economic conditions, and the creditworthiness of potential borrowers can help you identify potential risks. 

How to minimise risks?

Once you’ve identified potential risks, it’s time to minimize them. Managing risk is an important part of any investment strategy. By understanding the different types of risks, you can make informed decisions about where and how to invest your money. 

The first step is to create a budget. This will help you track your expenses and ensure that you are not taking on too much risk. You should also create a diversified investment portfolio to spread your investments across different sectors or industries. This will help minimize market risk.

In addition to creating a budget and diversifying your portfolio, you should also consider other financial strategies such as risk management. 

Diversifying your investments is one of the best ways to minimize market risk. 

Finally, it’s important to be aware of the tax laws and regulations in India. Knowing these can help you maximize your profits, as you’ll be able to minimize your tax burden.

Risk management involves understanding the risks associated with different investments, creating a plan to mitigate those risks, and monitoring the performance of those investments over time. This will help you make more informed decisions about which investments to make and how much to invest in each one.

Now let’s look at an example. Say you’re an Indian investor who wants to diversify your portfolio by investing in stocks. To manage your market risk, you should consider investing in a variety of stocks from different sectors. This way, if one sector performs poorly, the other sectors can help to balance out the losses. Additionally, you should be sure to monitor the stock market regularly to stay up-to-date on any changes that could affect the value of your investments.

To manage your non-market risk, you should look for reliable sources of information about any changes in the market that could affect your investments. Additionally, you should make sure you have the right insurance coverage in case of any unexpected losses. For example, in India you should look into crop insurance to protect your investments in the agriculture sector.

Risk Management tips for different types of risks

Market Volatility

Market volatility can be a major headache for investors. One way to reduce the risk of investing in a volatile market is to diversify your portfolio.

Investing in a variety of assets can help reduce your exposure to any one market. Also, it’s important to keep your time horizon in mind when investing. Long-term investments are generally less volatile than short-term investments.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk is the risk associated with not being able to convert your assets into cash quickly. A good way to reduce this risk is to invest in assets that can be easily converted into cash, such as stocks and bonds. You should also consider investing in low-cost index funds, which provide instant liquidity.

Currency Risk

Currency risk is the risk associated with investing in foreign markets. To reduce this risk, it’s important to diversify your investments across different currencies. If you’re investing in a foreign market, it’s also important to pay attention to exchange rate fluctuations.

Inflation Risk

Inflation risk is the risk associated with rising prices. To reduce this risk, it’s important to invest in assets that can keep up with inflation. Government bonds, for example, can help protect your investments from inflation. You should also consider investing in inflation-protected securities, such as Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS).

Default Risk

Default risk is the risk associated with an issuer not being able to repay its debt. To reduce this risk, it’s important to invest in assets with a low credit rating. You should also consider investing in government bonds, which are generally considered to be safe investments.

Exchange Rate Risk

Exchange rate risk is the risk associated with fluctuating exchange rates. To reduce this risk, it’s important to diversify your investments across different currencies. You should also pay attention to exchange rate fluctuations and try to time your investments accordingly.

Credit Risk

Credit risk is the risk associated with an issuer defaulting on its debt. To reduce this risk, it’s important to invest in assets with a low credit rating. You should also consider investing in government bonds, which are generally considered to be safe investments. As for credit risk, it’s important to only lend money to those who are creditworthy. Additionally, it’s important to have contracts in place and to make sure they are legally binding. 

Finally, it’s important to stay up to date on tax laws and regulations. Knowing the tax laws and regulations in India can help you maximize your profits and minimize your taxes.

Understanding risks, creating a budget, diversifying your investments, and staying current on tax laws can help you manage your finances and maximise profits.

How to Make Your Money Last Through Retirement

Read on for budgeting strategies, investment options, and risk management to help you maximize your savings and ensure your financial security.
5 min read

Retirement planning is important for everyone. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips on how to make your money last through retirement. We’ll discuss budgeting strategies, investment options, and risk management to help you maximize your savings and ensure your financial security.

Retirement is one of the most important times in an individual’s life, but it can also be one of the most expensive. With the cost of living rising and inflation looming, it can be difficult to make your money last through your golden years. But with the right strategies and budgeting practices, you can ensure that your hard-earned money doesn’t go to waste. 

If you are a retiree in India and have saved up enough money for your retirement, but you are worried about how to make it last. Here are some tips to help you manage your finances and make your money last through retirement:

Create a Budget

It can be difficult to create a budget when you’re retired, but it is essential to make sure that your money lasts as long as possible. Start by creating a budget by listing all of your income sources and all of your expenses.

Make sure to differentiate between essential expenses (such as rent and utilities) and discretionary expenses (such as entertainment and travel). Once you have an idea of how much you’ll be spending, you can start cutting back on non-essential expenses and use the extra money to increase your savings. 

Invest in Tax-Efficient Investments

To get the most out of your retirement savings, consider investing in tax-efficient investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

These investments can provide you with a steady stream of income and help to reduce your overall tax burden.

Take Advantage of Tax Breaks

As a retiree, you are eligible for certain tax breaks. These include deductions for medical expenses, charitable donations, and housing.

Make sure to take advantage of these tax breaks to ensure that you’re not paying more than you have to.

Consider a Reverse Mortgage

Another way to make your money last is to consider a reverse mortgage. This type of loan allows you to borrow against the equity in your home and use the money for retirement expenses.

Make sure to do your research and understand the terms and conditions of the loan before taking one out.

Cut Back on Unnecessary Expenses

Finally, it’s important to cut back on any unnecessary expenses. This could mean reducing cable bills, eating out less often, or even getting rid of a car.

By cutting back on these expenses, you’ll be able to save more money and make your retirement funds last longer.

Different retirement plans that are available to Indian citizens

By following these tips, you will be able to make your money last through retirement and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. 

Let’s start with the most popular option – the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). This is a retirement savings scheme that is operated by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and is offered to salaried employees in India. It is a great option because it allows you to save a portion of your salary each month, which is then matched by your employer. The money is invested in government bonds and other fixed-income instruments, and the returns are tax-free. 

Another option is the Public Provident Fund (PPF). This is a long-term savings plan offered by the Indian government and is open to all Indian citizens. It allows you to save up to Rs. 1.5 lakh each year, and the returns are tax-free. The best part about the PPF is that it has a lock-in period of 15 years, so you can be sure that your money is safe and secure. 

If you’re looking for a more flexible option, you can consider Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs). These are investment-linked insurance plans that allow you to invest in the market while also getting life insurance coverage. You can choose between different types of investments, such as equity, debt, or a combination of both. The returns are generally higher, but they’re also more risky. 

Finally, there are also other private retirement plans that are offered by mutual fund companies, banks, and other financial institutions. These plans offer higher returns but also come with higher risk. It’s important to do your research before investing in any of these private plans to make sure that you’re getting the best deal for your money. 

No matter which retirement plan you choose, it’s important to start planning early. With the right plan, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to enjoy a secure and comfortable retirement.

Guide to Minimising Taxes to Maximise Profits

A simple and straight forward guide to understanding taxes and how to use it to your advantage.
5 min read

Taxes are an unavoidable part of life, but you can minimize the amount of taxes that you owe. We’ll go over the different types of taxes, the benefits of tax deductions, and how to take advantage of tax-free investments.

Taxes are an unavoidable part of life. As an Indian citizen, you are required to pay different types of taxes, each with its own rules and regulations.

But did you know that you can take advantage of tax deductions and other tax-free investments to help you save money? Let’s take a look at the different types of taxes and how you can benefit from them. 

In India, there are two types of taxes that you need to be aware of: 

  • Direct taxes 
  • Indirect taxes. 

Direct taxes are taxes that the government levies on your income and profits. These include income tax, corporate tax, and wealth tax. Depending on your income level, you may be required to pay any or all of these taxes.

Indirect taxes, on the other hand, are taxes that you pay when you purchase goods or services. The most prominent example of an indirect tax in India is the Goods and Services Tax (GST). It's a tax that you pay on the purchase of most goods and services.

Direct taxes

  • Income Tax: This is the most common type of direct tax. It’s a tax that’s levied on the income you earn from employment, investments, and other sources. The amount you pay will depend on your tax slab and your total income.
  • Wealth Tax: This is a tax that’s imposed on the net wealth you own. It applies to certain types of assets such as stock, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, and so on.
  • Gift Tax: Gift tax is a type of direct tax that’s imposed on gifts and transfers of wealth. A gift tax is applicable if the value of the gift is above certain limits.
  • Corporate Tax: This is a tax that’s imposed on companies based on their profits. It’s calculated based on the company’s income, expenses, and other factors.
  • Securities Transaction Tax: This is a tax that’s imposed on the sale and purchase of securities such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
  • Property Tax: This is a tax that’s levied on real estate and other immovable property. It’s based on the value of the property and is usually paid annually.
  • Taxes on Professionals: Professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and chartered accountants are required to pay taxes on their income.

Indirect taxes

  • Goods and Services Tax (GST): GST is a comprehensive indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services. It is levied at the national level and subsumes all the indirect taxes levied at the state and central levels. It is applicable to all goods and services except alcohol for human consumption, petroleum products, and electricity. GST is calculated on the basis of the transaction value of goods and services. 
  • Customs Duty: Customs Duty is an indirect tax imposed on the import and export of goods. It is levied at the time of international trade and is collected by the government to regulate the import and export of goods. The customs duty amount is calculated on the basis of the type of goods, quantity, and value of the goods. 
  • Central Excise Duty: Central Excise Duty is an indirect tax imposed by the Central Government on the production and sale of goods in India. The amount of Central Excise Duty is calculated on the basis of the type of goods and their value. 
  • Service Tax: Service Tax is an indirect tax levied on the provision of services in India. It is applicable to all services except those that are specifically exempted. The Service Tax amount is calculated on the basis of the service value. 
  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Value Added Tax is an indirect tax imposed at the state level on the sale of goods. It is applicable to all goods except those that are specifically exempted. The VAT amount is calculated on the basis of the value of goods sold. 
  • Entry Tax: Entry Tax is an indirect tax levied by the state governments on goods entering a particular state. It is applicable to all goods entering the state except those that are specifically exempted. The Entry Tax amount is calculated on the basis of the value of goods entering the state. 
  • Luxury Tax: Luxury Tax is an indirect tax imposed by the state governments on goods and services that are deemed luxurious. The Luxury Tax amount is calculated on the basis of the value of goods and services. 

Tax deductions

One of the main benefits of paying taxes is that you can get tax deductions. Tax deductions are expenses that you can subtract from your total taxable income, which can help you save a lot of money. For example, if you make a donation to a charity, you can deduct that amount from your taxable income. 

It is important to understand all of these different types of taxes so that you can ensure that you are paying the right amount. If you are confused about any of these taxes, it is best to consult with a tax consultant or a financial advisor to ensure that you are on the right track.

Are you a salaried employee who is looking for ways to save money and make the most of your income? If so, you should be aware of the various tax deductions and tax-free investments available to you. Tax deductions are a great way to reduce your overall tax liabilities. There are several deductions that you can take advantage of, such as home loan interest deductions, medical expense deductions, and charitable donation deductions. It's important to know what deductions you can take so you can save the most money on taxes and pay the least amount of taxes possible. 

Standard deductions are a set amount of money that you can deduct from your taxable income. This amount is determined each year by the government and is typically adjusted for inflation. For example, in 2019, the standard deduction was Rs.50,000. This means that if your taxable income was Rs.5 lakh, then you could deduct Rs.50,000 from it, leaving you with a taxable income of Rs.4.5 lakh.

Next, let’s talk about deductions for investments. If you are investing in stocks, mutual funds, or other similar investments, you may be eligible for deductions. These deductions are typically based on how much you are investing and how long you have been investing for. For example, if you have been investing in stocks for five years and have invested Rs.1 lakh, then you may be eligible for a deduction of Rs.20,000. 

Finally, let’s talk about deductions for charitable donations. Donating to a charity can be a great way to give back to your community and can also result in some tax savings. Generally speaking, you can deduct up to 10 percent of your total income for donations to a charity. 

Let’s say you are a salaried employee in India and you have an income of Rs. 10 lakhs per annum. You can avail of deductions from your total income, reducing your taxable income and consequently, your tax liability. 

Some of the popular deductions you can avail of include: 

  • House rent allowance (HRA): If you are paying rent for a house, you can avail of the HRA deduction. This deduction is calculated based on the amount you pay as rent, the location of the house, and the city you live in. 
  • Home loan interest and principal repayment: If you are paying an EMI on a home loan, you can avail of deductions for both the interest and the principal repayment. This deduction is up to a maximum of Rs. 2 lakhs per annum. 
  • Section 80C: This section allows you to save up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs per annum by investing in certain instruments such as Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificates (NSCs), Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs), etc. 
  • Section 80D: This section allows you to avail of deductions for medical insurance premiums paid for self, spouse and children. The maximum deduction amount is Rs. 25,000 per annum. 

By availing of these tax deductions, you can significantly reduce your taxable income and save money in the long run. 

Tax-free investments

Apart from tax deductions, you can also make use of tax-free investments to save money. Tax-free investments are investments that are not subject to tax. Some of the popular tax-free investments in India are: 

  • Public Provident Fund: PPF is a long-term investment option that provides tax exemption on the entire amount invested. The interest earned is also tax-free. 
  • Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS): ELSS is a mutual fund investment option that provides tax exemption on investments up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs per annum. 
  • National Pension Scheme (NPS): NPS is a pension investment option that provides tax exemption on investments up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs per annum. 

By investing in these tax-free investments, you can save money and also benefit from the returns generated by your investments. 

Tax deductions and tax-free investments can help you make the most of your income and save money in the long run. To make the most of these options, it is important to understand the various tax laws and regulations and make informed decisions. 

We hope this article has helped you understand the various tax deductions and tax-free investments available to you. So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of these options today and save money!

5 Timeless Tips for the Average Investor (Like you and me)

Let’s look at some of the best investment strategies for Indian investors.
5 min read

Are you looking for ways to invest your money? Not sure where to start? 

Investing can be a great way to increase your wealth, but it’s important to understand the risks involved.

In this article, we’ll go over some basic investing strategies that the average investor can use to make the most of their money. We’ll also provide some tips on how to minimize risk and maximize profits.

Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

One of the most important investing principles is to never put all of your eggs in one basket.

This means that you should diversify your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. 

By investing in multiple asset classes, you spread the risk and ensure that you are not too heavily invested in one particular sector.

Each has different levels of risk and reward associated with it, so it’s important to understand which one is best for you.

Have a Clear Plan

Before you start investing, it’s important to have a clear plan. This plan should include your goals, your timeline, and how much risk you’re willing to take. This will help you determine which investments are best for you and how to allocate your money.

Monitor Your Investments

It is important to monitor your investments on a regular basis. This will help you determine if your investment strategy is working and if adjustments need to be made in order to maximize your returns. You can also use this time to research different strategies and find out which ones will work best for you.

Understand Tax Implications

Taxes can have a big impact on your investments.

It’s important to understand the tax laws and regulations in India and how they may affect your returns.

For example, long-term capital gains are taxed differently than short-term gains. Understanding how your investments affect your taxes can help you pay less in taxes and make more money.

Consulting a financial advisor or accountant can help you understand the tax implications and help you minimize your taxes.

Be Patient

Investing isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. It takes time and patience to see returns on your investments.

Be sure to keep a long-term view, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. With patience and a clear plan, you can make the most of your investments over time.

These are just a few of the basic investing strategies that the average investor can use to make the most of their money.

With a clear plan and an understanding of the tax implications, you can minimize risk and maximize profits.

With a little bit of planning and research, you can create a successful investment portfolio.

Good luck!

Really Simple Way to Create a Sustainable Budget

We’ll go over the basics of budgeting and provide you with tips to help you create a sustainable budget that you can stick to. 
5 min read

Creating a budget is a great way to ensure that you’re staying on track with your finances. A budget will help you to better manage your expenses and plan for the future. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of budgeting and provide you with tips to help you create a sustainable budget that you can stick to. 

Budgeting is the process of allocating your income to expenses, savings and investments. It is an essential tool to help you manage your finances and reach your financial goals.

When creating a budget, it is important to focus on your needs and not your wants. Think about what your necessary expenses are such as rent, utilities, food, and transportation and make sure that these are taken care of first. Then, you can start to allocate the rest of your income to other categories, such as savings and investments.

It is also important to set realistic goals and stick to them. This could include having a certain amount of money saved each month and investing a certain percentage of your income into stocks or mutual funds. Additionally, you should make sure to track your spending so that you can stay on top of your budget.

As an example, let's say you have a monthly income of INR 30,000 . Of this, you allocate INR 10,000 to rent and utilities, INR 10,000 to food and other necessary expenses, and the remaining INR 10,000 to savings and investments.

You could then decide to save 4,000 INR each month and invest the remaining 6,000 INR in stocks or mutual funds.

Hubble Money comes in handy here. You can setup auto transfer of INR 10,000 to your Hubble Spending Account where it will grow to 10% in 100 days. You can use this for all your expenses.

By following these tips, you can create a sustainable budget that will help you reach your financial goals.

It is important to remember that budgeting is not an overnight process and it takes time to develop a strong financial foundation. So, start with small steps and you'll be well on your way to financial success!

How to Spend less than you earn - 11 Mistakes to Avoid

Whether it’s a small, everyday indulgence or a major purchase, it’s easy to overspend and find yourself in a financial hole. So why do we do it?
5 min read

It’s a common mistake that many of us make: spending more money than we make.

Whether it’s a small, everyday indulgence or a major purchase, it’s easy to overspend and find yourself in a financial hole. So why do we do it?

The answer is simple: it’s human nature. We’re wired to seek instant gratification and often make decisions without considering the consequences. We may think that if we just buy this one thing, our life will be better. But it’s important to remember that these instant gratification purchases come with a price.

Common Mistakes That Make You Spend More Than You Earn

Mistake 1 - Keeping up with the Kapoors

It’s easy to get caught up in consumer culture and think that we need the latest and greatest of everything. We may think that if we buy a certain item, we’ll feel better about ourselves and fit in with our peers. But the reality is that buying things to impress other people will only leave you with an empty wallet.

Mistake 2 - Keeping Up With Trends

Keeping up with the latest trends can be expensive. Instead of always buying the newest items, look for cheaper ways to stay fashionable, such as shopping at thrift stores or borrowing items from friends.

Mistake 3 - Not Having a Budget

Budgeting isn’t always fun, but it’s essential for financial success. Without a budget, it’s easy to overspend without realizing it. Keeping track of our income and expenses can help us stay within our means and avoid overspending.Many people fail to create a budget and track their spending. Without knowing where your money is going, it’s impossible to know if you’re staying within your means and avoiding overspending.

Mistake 4 - Not Knowing Your Necessary Expenses

If you don’t know your fixed expenses, it’s easy to spend more than you can afford. Make sure you know your fixed costs, such as rent, utilities, and debt payments, before you buy luxury items.

Mistake 5 - Not setting financial goals

It’s important to have goals that we’re working towards. Setting financial goals can help us stay motivated and keep our spending in check. Whether it’s saving for a vacation, paying off student loan debt, or investing for retirement, having a goal can help us stay focused on our financial priorities.

Mistake 6 - Not Planning for Unexpected Expenses

Emergencies happen, so it’s important to be prepared for them. Make sure you have an emergency fund saved to cover unexpected costs, such as medical bills or car repairs.

Mistake 7 - Falling for impulse buys

We’ve all been there: you’re at the store and see something you just have to have. Impulse buys can be tempting, but it’s important to remember that they’re often unnecessary purchases. Before you make the purchase, take a few minutes to think about whether or not you really need it.

Mistake 8 - Not planning for the future

It can be easy to focus on the present and not think about the future. But if we don’t plan ahead, we could be setting ourselves up for financial disaster. We should be thinking about the long-term consequences of our spending and saving habits and making sure we’re preparing for the future.

Mistake 9 - Not Shopping Around

Shopping around for the best deals can help you save money. Instead of just buying from the first place you see, compare prices to get the best value for your money.

Mistake 10 - Paying With Credit Cards

Credit cards often come with high interest rates and can quickly turn into debt if you’re not careful. Try to pay for items with cash or debit whenever possible.

Mistake 11 - Not Saving

Saving money is one of the best ways to avoid overspending. Set aside some money each month to contribute to your savings and build up a cushion for the future.

What makes us spend more than we earn in India

  • Culture and society have a big impact on the way Indians spend their money. People often buy things like jewelry or cars on credit or loan, which can cause them to spend more than they should. This is because people don't budget or plan well and want to keep up with the latest trends or keep living a certain way.
  • Paying for Luxury Items: Many people in India fall into the trap of buying luxury items that they cannot afford. This can be anything from expensive cars, designer clothing, jewellery, and vacations. These types of purchases often lead to excessive debt, as people fail to budget properly and do not understand the long-term costs associated with such purchases.
  • In today's age of social media marketing, influencers, and advertisements, we may be influenced to make impulsive purchases due to peer pressure.
  • Another factor leading to overspending is the lack of financial literacy. A lack of understanding of financial concepts such as budgeting, savings and investments can lead to people spending more than they can afford.
  • Not Utilising Credit Card Benefits: Credit cards are a great way to build credit, but many people in India misuse them by overspending. Credit cards often come with cashback and reward programs, so it is important to understand how to use them properly in order to take advantage of these benefits.
  • Taking Out Loans: Taking out a loan can be a great way to get access to money quickly, however, it is also important to understand the risks associated with taking out a loan. Many people in India fail to understand the potential consequences of taking out a loan, leading to overspending and excessive debt.

The bottom line is that overspending isn’t a good idea. It can lead to debt, financial stress, and other problems. But with a little planning and discipline, we can avoid overspending and work towards our financial goals.

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