Category: Personal Finance

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

Chart Ki Baat

Gyaan Ki Baat 

From Saving to Investing – A Financial Evolution for Women

For generations, women in India have been celebrated as excellent savers, skilfully managing household budgets and planning for future needs. However, saving alone is no longer sufficient to secure financial independence in today’s world. The transition from saving to investing is not just a financial necessity but a step toward empowerment and wealth creation.

• Why Investing Matters

The difference between saving and investing lies in their outcomes. While savings provide security, investments offer growth. With inflation eroding the value of money over time, merely saving in traditional forms like fixed deposits or cash cannot ensure long-term financial well-being. Investments, on the other hand, allow money to grow and compound, building wealth over time.

• Breaking Stereotypes

Historically, women have been discouraged from investing due to outdated notions like “finance is too complex” or “investing is risky.” However, these myths are being shattered as women increasingly take charge of their financial futures. Recent data highlights this shift:

– Women’s share in mutual fund investments has grown significantly, with their Assets Under Management (AuM) rising from ₹98,000 crore in 2017 to ₹7.5 trillion by 2024—a 33% share of total individual investors’ AuM.

– Approximately 79 lakh women now hold mutual fund folios, marking a 25% increase in the women investor base over the past year.

– SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) are particularly popular among women, with 26% of all live SIPs attributed to them in 2023.

• Lessons from the Past

In the 1980s, women relied on creative strategies to save and invest within their means. Some hoarded spare change that grew into significant savings over decades, while others invested in real estate—then the most accessible form of wealth creation. These stories remind us that women have always been resourceful with finances; they simply lacked access to modern investment tools.

• The Path Forward

Today’s women have more opportunities than ever to grow their wealth:

1. Start Small: SIPs allow investments with as little as ₹500 per month.

2. Diversify: Spread investments across equities, mutual funds, gold, and real estate for balanced growth.

3. Leverage Technology: Use digital platforms for easy access to financial products and real-time portfolio management.

4. Educate Yourself: Financial literacy is key to making informed decisions.

• Conclusion

The growing participation of women in India’s investment landscape is a testament to their evolving financial independence and empowerment. By embracing investing alongside saving, women can ensure not just stability but also prosperity—for themselves and future generations. This Women’s Day let’s encourage every woman to take that first step toward becoming a smart investor!

Personal Finance

• Income-tax bill 2025: When can tax officials check your email, social media, trading and bank accounts? As per the Income-tax Bill 2025, if tax officials have reasons to believe that you are deliberately hiding details of an undisclosed income then they may ask you provide access to your virtual digital spaces. If you fail to provide access or assist them in their investigation, then they may break into them to find out. Read here

• Women’s share in mutual funds doubles in five years, now at 33% of total assets: Women now hold 33% of mutual fund AUM, doubling investments to ₹11.25 lakh crore in five years. SIP adoption, financial independence, and rising single women numbers drive growth, with more women in both urban and smaller towns actively managing their wealth. Read here

Investing

• Scams, Damn Scams, and Investors: The financial world is full of clever scams—misleading charts, cherry-picked stock picks, and false promises of outperformance. Think you can spot them? Think again. Before you invest, ask yourself: are you being played? Read on to uncover the truth! Read here

• Tired of buying the dip? 3 survival strategies for investors trapped in bear market: The buy-the-dip mantra, which fuelled retail investors after the Covid crash, is now under fire as stock market bulls struggle to regain footing after five months of relentless declines. With the Nifty PE slipping below 20 for the first time in 32 months and valuations normalizing, the big question is: what next? Read here

• The wisdom of inattention: Sensex tumbles, experts panic, and investors ask—“Is this time different?” Spoiler: It’s not. Markets have survived crashes, scams, and crises. SIPs win because they cut out emotions. Read here

Economy & Sector

• The retirement savings gap in India will rise to $96 trillion by 2050: India’s pension market, just 3% of GDP, has huge growth potential as NPS adoption rises. With tax benefits, AI-driven fund management, and innovative schemes like NPS Vatsalya, retirement savings are set to grow. As India’s aging population increases, a stronger pension system is crucial to bridging the retirement savings gap. Read here

• Battle for growth: On India’s economic trajectory: India’s Q3FY25 GDP grew 6.2%, driven by the primary sector, but manufacturing and services lagged amid global trade risks. While consumption and government spending rose, concerns over data revisions and inflation persist. Can India sustain growth? Read here

• U.S. eyes zero tariff on cars in India trade deal as Tesla entry nears: India is unlikely to relent to U.S. demands to reduce tariffs on auto imports to zero immediately, it has been priming the industry to prepare for a lower tariff regime and be open to competition. Read here

Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.

• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1^st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

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That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

Chart Ki Baat

Gyaan Ki Baat 

The Power of “Enough”

In our relentless pursuit of financial security and abundance, it’s easy to get caught on a hamster wheel of more. More income, more investments, more possessions… But have we ever paused to ask ourselves a fundamental question: “How much is enough?”

This isn’t some philosophical riddle; it’s a crucial element of sound personal finance. Understanding your “enough” isn’t about settling for less or stifling ambition. It’s about:

• Defining True Wealth: True wealth isn’t just about the digits in your bank account. It’s about aligning your spending with your values and using your resources to create a life you genuinely enjoy. What experiences, relationships, and contributions truly matter to you?
• Avoiding Lifestyle Inflation: As our income grows, so often does our spending. Recognizing your “enough” helps you resist the urge to constantly upgrade your lifestyle to match your earnings, freeing up more resources for saving, investing, and pursuing your passions.
• Reducing Financial Stress: Constantly chasing “more” can lead to chronic stress and anxiety. Knowing your “enough” provides a sense of contentment and security, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
• Making Intentional Choices: When you know what “enough” looks like for you, you can make more deliberate choices about your career, spending, and investments. You’re less likely to be swayed by societal pressures or marketing tactics that push you to consume more than you need.

So, how do you find your “enough”?

1. Reflect on Your Values: What truly brings you joy and fulfillment?
2. Track Your Spending: Where does your money actually go?
3. Define Your Goals: What do you want to achieve with your money?
4. Imagine Your Ideal Life: What does a fulfilling day, week, or year look like?

Finding your “enough” is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continuous self-reflection and aligning your financial decisions with your values. When you know what’s truly enough, you can live a richer, more meaningful life, regardless of your net worth.

Personal Finance

• Budget changes: Will capitals gains make you ineligible for tax rebate? For many taxpayers, the Section 87A rebate under the Income Tax Act has been a valuable relief, reducing the overall tax liability, especially for those with an income of Rs 7 lakh or less. However, the Union Budget 2025 has introduced significant changes that could affect how you claim this rebate. Read here

• What’s the smarter choice — to buy a flat or rent one? Should you rent or buy a home? It’s a classic dilemma! Buying builds stability and wealth but renting offers flexibility and financial freedom. The right choice depends on your career, liquidity, and market conditions—so crunch the numbers and plan wisely! Read here

• LIC rolls out Smart Pension Plan. Key questions answered on retirement scheme: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has rolled out LIC New Smart Pension Plan. It is a non-participating, non-linked, individual, savings, immediate annuity plan. Read here

Investing

• NSDL, CDSL launch unified app to streamline financial data: NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) and CDSL (Central Depository Services Limited), in collaboration with capital markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), have launched a mobile app Unified Investor Platform for investors to manage their portfolios. How will it benefit investors to manage portfolios? Read here

• Is it a good time to invest in non-convertible debentures (NCDs) amid market correction? As stock markets face continued selloffs, some investors are considering non-convertible debentures (NCDs) for stable returns. NCDs offer fixed interest rates and come in secured and unsecured types.  To  learn more about them Read here

• IFSCA eases compliance for fund managers in GIFT City to boost investment: IFSCA has eased regulations for fund managers in GIFT City, slashing corpus requirements, simplifying compliance, and allowing greater investment flexibility. Key reforms include relaxed listing norms, overseas expansion freedom, and streamlined hiring—boosting GIFT-IFSC’s appeal as a global investment hub. Read here

Economy & Sectors

• India set to become high-income country by 2047 buoyed by services sector: India is projected to become a high-income country by 2047 with a GDP of $23-35 trillion, driven by the services (60%) and manufacturing (32%) sectors. With 200 million joining the workforce, high-value job creation will unlock economic potential. Read here

• Is India’s economy set for a strong recovery? Here’s what RBI says: The government’s push on capital spending, MSMEs, agriculture, and exports is expected to help the economy in the long run while keeping the fiscal deficit in check. A recent repo rate cut might also support domestic demand. Read here

• India Aims For 70% Female Workforce Participation By 2047: Addressing the first G20 Employment Working Group Meeting 2025 under South African Presidency, Union Labour Secretary Sumita Dawra also stated that India’s increasing participation of women in high-growth sectors like IT, R&D, and engineering was noted as a critical driver of economic growth. Read here

Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.

• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1^st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

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That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

Chart Ki Baat

Gyaan Ki Baat 

The focus on consumption is expected to drive economic growth. The UN report forecasts India’s economy to grow by 6.6% in 20257. Deloitte expects India to grow between 6.7% and 7.3% in fiscal year 2025 to 2026.

Think of the Indian economy as a flywheel. Consumption acts as the initial push that starts the wheel turning. When people spend more, businesses see increased demand, leading to higher production, job creation, and further economic activity.

How Tax Relief Fuels Consumption:

• Increased Disposable Income: Tax relief, like the kind given up to ₹12 lakhs, directly puts more money in the hands of consumers. This additional income can then be used for discretionary spending, which drives demand across various sectors, including retail, entertainment, and consumer goods.
• Boost to Consumer Confidence: Tax relief measures often improve consumer sentiment and confidence. When people feel financially secure, they are more likely to make purchases, take vacations, or invest in big-ticket items, all of which stimulate economic growth.
• Multiplier Effect: Increased consumption has a multiplier effect on the economy. As businesses respond to higher demand, they invest in expanding operations, hiring more employees, and increasing wages. This, in turn, leads to even more consumption and further economic growth.
• Revival in Consumption Growth: The Economic Survey 2024-25 noted a revival in consumption growth, with Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) at Constant Prices witnessing a growth rate of 7.3 percent during FY25, compared to 4.0 percent in the previous financial year.

Personal Finance

• Is $1 Million Still a Lot of Money? Inflation has eroded its past power, but it still holds value. Once a ticket to the top 5%, today it places you in the top 19%. Wealth is relative, but opportunities have never been better! Curious how much you really need to feel rich today? Read here

• How will RBI’s rate cut affect your EMIs? The RBI recently reduced the repo rate. How does this affect interest rates on vehicle loans? Should you expect your monthly payments to decrease? With the RBI’s recent repo rate cut, we may expect lower lending rates for retail loans such as home loans and vehicle loans. Read here

• Why RBI’s latest liquidity boost is a big win for homebuyers: RBI’s latest moves, including a repo rate cut and ₹40,000 crore liquidity infusion, are set to lower home loan EMIs, boosting affordability and stimulating housing demand. Read here

Investing

• He Made $171 Trading Futures When He Was Only 13–Now He’s Worth $1.2 Billion: Chris Sacca’s investing journey began at 13 with a $171 profit—his first taste of venture capital. He later struck gold with early bets on Uber, Twitter, and Stripe. Now, he’s doubling down on the future, funding game-changing climate-tech startups. Read here

• What the RBI rate cut means for fixed income investors: The RBI’s 25 bps rate cut is set to boost fixed-income investments, with bond yields expected to ease. Long-term debt funds may benefit, while short-term debt remains steady. Investors should focus on short-to-medium duration products for optimal returns. Read here

• This too shall pass: How to navigate market movements in turbulent times: Nifty fell 10% to 26,216; Nifty Next 50 dropped 18%; Midcap 150 declined 12%. Key factors: weak Q2FY25 earnings, FIIs shifting to China, stronger USD-INR. SIP inflows remain strong. Staggered investments, large-cap exposure, and quality stock focus are key. Read here

Economy & Sectors

• India To Remain World’s Fastest Growing Economy, Says Nirmala Sitharaman: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized India’s strong economic growth, increased capital expenditure, inflation control, and reduced unemployment. She refuted opposition claims on debt and state allocations, highlighting prudent fiscal management, infrastructure investment, and food security measures to sustain economic momentum. Read here

• India’s wholesale inflation eases to 2.31% in January: India’s wholesale inflation eased to 2.31% in January, with food and fuel prices declining. Retail inflation fell to 4.31%, below estimates. The RBI expects inflation to average 4.8% this fiscal year and drop to 4.2% next year while monitoring economic pressures. Read here

• India needs an ambitious agenda for higher growth: India needs bold economic reforms to sustain high growth and achieve its 2047 development goal. Challenges include slowing expansion, high unemployment, and inflation. The budget focused on consumers but lacked structural changes. Policy shifts in labor, land, and trade are essential for long-term progress. Read here

Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.

• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1^st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

****
That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.