More articles for you

Your one stop place for everything related to finance and lending

Banking

What Is Bank Account Statement: All You Need to Know

Are you looking to find out what a bank account statement is? In this article, you will find out how the bank account statement works and the perks of a bank statement. A bank statement has all the details about transactions in a depositor’s current or savings account. Bank statements are an easy way for account holders to check their finances. [B-01] What is a bank account statement? The bank statement is a document given by the bank to its customers every month that shows all the customer’s financial activities during that period. A monthly bank account summary includes all fund transfers, money deposits, and withdrawals made by the customer during the entire month. Each account’s balance at the start and end of the month is given in the bank statement. The contact details of the banks are also given in the bank statements. It records your bank account activity, and you can easily track your transactions through your bank account statement. Banks also give account statements to the account holders. These are great tools for keeping track of your expenses. Plan to save money by finding areas where you can lower spending your money by checking your monthly savings. Importance of account statements Giving your clients a summary of the goods and services billed to them is a great way to keep them informed. Also, the application status assists business owners in verifying the payments that clients have already made in one month. As it gives the business owner an idea of the customer’s regular spending, it can also be used as a tool for payment reminders. The summary report of the statement gives a business owner the ability to decide whether a client has paid his debts whenever there is an inconsistency in the company’s records. The business owner can also use the application status to confirm that the amount due includes the customer’s initial payments. The statement of accounts also gives business owners a precise record of the prices they have been charged by the banks for various banking services. This allows them to follow a user’s information and helps them spot issues. Why are bank statements used? A bank account statement shows account activity and verifies that the credit and debit balances match up correctly. The following benefits are available to account holders who choose to read their bank statements online: 1. Protects against financial fraud The monthly withdrawal and deposit amounts from an account are printed on bank statements. Banks use smart document processing systems to list details on these records, which aids users in finding out any anomalies or mismatches in quantities. Financial fraud can be detected by comparing the bank’s transaction records to yours. Records are correct and certified if there is no mismatch. 2. Lowers errors in accounting E-bank account statements and the application status are more valid than manual data entry of financial information since it is less prone to human error. Organizations use automated bank statement solutions to extract financial data, verify it, and input it into their records. Many banks use document AI software for this function, which is also quick, precise, and safe. 3. Displays settlements, fines, and account balances Users get an entire list of their transactions when they study their bank statements, which is one of the main perks. Users can check their account balance, fines, and charges to know better about the account’s money flow. Account holders get to know about the prohibited transactions so that they do not have to pay any hidden fees. How Do I Use a Bank Statement? Bank statements are simple bank documents that aid in everything related to your account, from expense monitoring to finding errors. You can get the below-mentioned things with a bank statement: Keep an eye on your spending: Review your monthly bank statement to keep track of your spending. Keep an eye on your bank balance: You can reduce overdraft costs by always having enough money to cover payments and ATM withdrawals. Check your bank account carefully for irregularities, duplicate charges, and inconsistencies. Apply for a loan: Whether you are applying for a personal loan or a mortgage, your lender may require bank statements to document your current financial situation. Rent an apartment: Before signing a lease, a landlord or rental company might ask to examine your bank statements. Finance your house: Financial institutions could ask to examine bank statements if you intend to refinance your home. When filing your tax return, you might need to look at your bank statement. Keeping records: You may need them later or at any time in the future, so store your statements safely. [B-02] Conclusion You can have a better understanding of where your money has come from and gone by learning how to read and use your bank account statement. Also, it can aid in account organization and prevent costly spending errors. You can now choose how you want to get your monthly bank statements from most banks. You can choose a paper statement or apply online to have an e-bank statement mailed to the email address you have on file. Are you looking for similar finance blogs? Visit the Piramal Finance website and help yourself to the knowledge of wide-ranging financial products and services, especially credit cards and personal loans.

08-11-2023
Other

What is APR, and How is APR Calculated?

The annual percentage rate, or APR, makes it easier for consumers to compare the costs of different credit products, such as home loans, personal loans, mortgages, etc. By law, the APR must be disclosed to consumers before they enter a loan agreement with the lender. [B-01] What is APR? An APR is a comprehensive measure of the cost of borrowing money from a financial institution. It’s not just the interest rate; it also considers any additional fees or charges that may apply. Hence, it is a “true” reflection of the cost of borrowing money. With this rate, you can compare the total cost of loans with different interest rates and fees. For example, a loan with an annual percentage rate of 10% would have a higher total cost than one with an APR of 5%, even if the interest rate is lower. What Is Included in the APR? There are a few things to remember when considering the annual percentage rate on a loan. First, it’s essential to understand that the APR is not the same as your interest rate. The interest rate is the cost of borrowing money, while the APR includes the interest rate plus other fees and costs associated with taking out the loan. These can include: Application Fees The lender charges these to cover the cost of processing your loan application. Origination Fees These charges help the lender cover the cost of originating the loan. Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) This type of insurance is required for some home loans with a down payment of less than 20%. Prepayment Penalties Some lenders may even charge a fee if the borrower pays off the loan early. How is the annual percentage rate calculated? With an accurate calculation of the annual percentage rate, you will get a complete idea of the accumulated interest rate and other charges applicable to your loan for an entire year. To calculate this amount, you can follow the formula given below: APR= [{(Fees + Interest)/ Principal}/ n]x365x100 Here, interest refers to the total interest amount paid throughout the loan term, and the principal is the loan amount. Similarly, ‘n’ is the days included in the loan term. Let’s understand this with an example now. Arun needs a loan amount of 10 lakhs that he can repay over five years. Now, consider the interest rate as 12% with a processing fee of 2% and an insurance cost of INR 5,000. In this case, the APR will be calculated as follows: Processing fee= INR 20,000 Insurance = 5000 Interest cost = 600000 APR = [{(25000+600000)/1000000}/1825] 365 100 = 12.5% So, the annual cost of the loan would be 12.5% for the stipulated tenure. Also, remember that it is 0.5% higher than the nominal rate quoted by Arun’s bank. Though the annual percentage rate works as a standard measure to calculate the exact amount of interest charged by lenders, it may not work well when comparing short-term loans. That’s because it offers only the base number without considering the time when applying for credit card loans. Similarly, calculating this figure for a savings account may not show the complete picture of interest earned over the years. How Can You Lower the APR on an Existing Credit? If you have already taken a personal loan but want to reduce your repayment amount, you can try to minimise the annual percentage rate payable on it. Here are some tips to help you secure a lower APR: Repay your loan on time. Sometimes, a borrower’s credibility can help a bank or lender reduce their EMI. In most cases, the lending institutions determine your credibility according to your repayment records. With efficient credit management and timely repayments, you can prove that you are a sincere and disciplined borrower who settles their bills on time. This gives you negotiating power to ask your lender to reduce the APR. Keep Track of Your Credit Rating The credit score or rating is a significant factor when calculating APRs. Hence, check your records before approaching a lender. If your credit score is low, your lender will not consider reducing the APR. Improving this score can give you a fair chance at the negotiation table. Transfer your loan For some borrowers, transferring it to another bank is also a rational way to reduce their annual interest rate. All you have to do is find a bank willing to offer a lower rate than your existing lender. A processing fee may apply to this process, but you can find a bank that does not charge anything to process balance loan transfers. Apply for a New, Low-Interest Loan Another option to reduce your annual percentage rate is to pay off your current loan with new, low-interest credit. In this case, you can compare the quotes from different banks and choose the lowest one. Pay off your other debts with this new loan and save a lot on the interest rate and monthly payments. What Is a Good APR? The APR you qualify for will depend on several factors, including your credit score, income, and debts. In general, the lower your annual percentage rate, the better. However, there is no magic number that all lenders use to determine whether a loan is good or bad. The best way to find out what kind of APR you can expect is to shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders. This will give you a good idea of where you stand in the market and what kind of terms you can expect to receive. [B-02] Conclusion The annual percentage rate can be helpful when comparing different offers, but it’s important to remember that the interest rate is only one factor in choosing a loan. Before deciding, you must consider the loan amount, repayment terms, and your financial situation. Hence, it is better to seek help from a financial expert instead of making rash decisions on your own. Contact the personal loan or home loan experts at Piramal Finance to learn about your loan’s APR and choose a credit option with the lowest rate.

08-11-2023
Other

Forex Trading In India: All You Need To Know

Do you wish to trade in foreign currencies at any time of the day? With forex trading in India, you can make this happen. Foreign Exchange or Forex Trading is the trading and exchange of foreign currencies. Simply put, a person buys a currency by exchanging another currency as per the ongoing currency rate. Here, a single currency is considered a market, like the INR or USD market. Over-the-counter, trading is done, which means both parties trade with each other without needing an agent or intermediary. Continue reading to learn more about the forex trading domain. [B-01] Sections Of Forex Trading Markets In India There are two market sections for forex trading in India: Interbank Forex Trading Market: This is a group of banks and companies doing currency trading. Interbank transfers make up most of the forex market. This trading helps the most to keep the exchange rates stable. Retail Forex Trading Market: This section has many traders that engage in forex trading in India. However, their transactions are not as high as those on the interbank market. Types of Forex Trading Market Spot Market: This market is the most active in forex trading. It eases quick currency transactions. Forward Market: This market helps two parties to agree to buy or sell a currency at a future fixed date. On the date of trading, there is no exchange. Most traders use it to hedge their forex trading transactions. Objectives of the Forex Trading Market The two objectives with which traders enter currency trading in India are listed below: To protect investors from market volatility, currency trading acts as a vast hedging tool. It allows fixing a specific rate at which one can enter the contract and then honor the same, not considering the market rates at that time. Many traders enjoy investing in the forex market as they make huge profits based on their estimates or guesses about the currency trading markets. They try to use market volatility for their profits. Forex trading also has a high risk, so it is better to be cautious while trading in this market. Forex Trading Strategies It is always better to have a strategy in place when dealing with currency trading in India. The different types of trading involved in forex trading in India are listed below: Scalp trading: It is done during the busiest time of the day and with very liquid currency pairs. This type of trading involves profiting from small changes in the price. So, scalp trading provides more profit. Day trading: It needs proper knowledge and technical analysis skills as the traders exit the trading within the same day. Swing trading: It lasts for more than a day, even weeks. In this type of trading, traders take the currency changes into account. Position trading: It is done for months or even years. Here, basic analysis is a must for the trader to keep the holdings for a long period. Start Forex Trading Today Follow these simple steps to start forex trading: Gain insight about Forex: If you are new to currency trading in India, you must know properly about it. This form of trading has a high risk involved. Thus, poor research or knowledge can land you in trouble or at a loss. Open a brokerage account: Open a forex trading account with a broker to start trading. The brokers here do not charge commissions of any sort. The capital needs of the brokerage account can be changed. Choose a trading strategy: Different traders can have different trading strategies. So, choosing the right trading way is vital after a depth analysis. Keep a check: As a trader, it is vital to have an idea of your positions and holdings at the end of the day. Since the forex market works 24 hours daily, trading can be done anytime. Do not get emotionally driven: A beginner in Forex Trading may get to see many ups and downs due to volatility. You should not lose hope and keep trying with more effort and research. Forex Trading Regulations in India The firms in India follow the Foreign Exchange Management Act of 1999. These firms are managed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), and the transactions are monitored and regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). A broker must be registered with SEBI. However, trading on contracts for differences and binary trading is not allowed in India. [B-02] Final Thoughts Forex trading is a high-risk, high-return marketplace. Due to severe fluctuations in the exchange rates, foreign trade can either give good returns or cause monetary losses. Currency trading in India can be done on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE), and Metropolitan Stock Exchange. Forex markets allow the use of leverage and, with that, provide good profits. This will also help people who do not have much to provide as capital. This market is one of the most liquid in the world, with meager transaction costs. However, choosing a good and safe broker is a vital part that is to be kept in mind. To expand your knowledge by reading more such articles, visit Piramal Finance. Learn more about easy business and personal loan solutions and other financial services with us.

08-11-2023
Cards

Types of Credit Card Fraud You Must be Aware of

People have been talking a lot about credit card fraud lately. If you use credit cards, you need to know about the scams around you. Credit card fraud must have been in the news or happened to one of your friends or family members at some point. Banks are trying to figure out how to fix the problem, but scammers always devise new ways to take your money. Do you want to know how to stay alert to prevent things like these from happening? In this article, we’ll talk about credit card scams you need to know about and how to avoid them. [B-01] Credit Card Fraud: Types & Avoiding Them Fraudsters can get their hands on your personal information in several ways, such as by getting your CVV, credit card number, one-time password, and so on. This makes it easy for someone to trick you. Here are some ways to spot these scams and stay away from them. Skimming Your credit card information may be fraudulently obtained by a practice known as “skimming,” using a “skimmer.” This term refers to a tiny electronic device that is connected to point-of-sale (POS) machines. Therefore, when you swipe your credit card through a POS machine, the skimmer reads the credit card’s data and then stores them. After the skimming device has stolen all the information from the credit card, a nearby hidden camera will record the PIN you enter while completing the transaction. This makes it easier for fraudsters to get all of your credit card information and scam you of your money. This scam frequently occurs in crowded situations where you are often in a hurry, like gas stations. It can also happen when people use ATMs. Before you swipe your credit card, you should always check the POS to see if it has a skimming device attached If you think there might be some device attached to the ATM, don’t use it Cover the keypad with your other hand while typing the PIN so that fraudsters can’t use your credit card information without the PIN If someone stole your credit card information, you should immediately call the credit card company and have your card blocked. This will stop scammers from being able to make transactions Phishing Phishing is a kind of credit card fraud in which cardholders get an email from what seems to be a trustworthy financial institution. After they open the email, they are instructed to click on a link, and when they do, they are sent to a fake website. They are asked to provide their personal information on that website. The majority of individuals fall for phishing scams in this way. Financial institutions will never ask for your personal information in an email If you get such emails, call your bank or the company that gave you the card immediately If the email looks strange, don’t click the link Confirm the URL before you enter any personal information Malware Attacks Malware Attacks are a type of credit card scam in which people are tricked into downloading malicious software. When you type your credit card information into your device, hackers can see what you do with your card and steal the information. In return, these hackers use your credit card information to make purchases online. No matter what, you should always use licensed software Install antivirus software on your device to prevent this kind of credit card scam Do not give out private information on websites that are not encrypted. Check if the URL starts with HTTPS or HTTP to see if a site is secure. Also, if HTTP is red instead of green, it means the site is not safe Never click on links from sources you don’t trust Card Fraud Department In this kind of credit card fraud, a fraudster calls you and says they are from the credit card company. These scammers know some things about you, like your name, where you work, and where you live. They use these details to win your trust. Then they tell you about the unauthorized transactions made on your credit cards. They say that you will be responsible for these transactions if you don’t give them your card details. This is how many individuals end up falling for the scam. You can always check your online banking to see if any of these kinds of transactions have been made with your card Always remember that a credit card company will never call you and ask for your credit card information You can always call customer service or go to your bank to see if a call like this has been made by them Free Wi-Fi If you are connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi, there is a chance that a scammer is also connected to the same Wi-Fi. With some work and research, the scammer can see what you do on the internet. If you transact or log into your online banking portal while connected to the Wi-Fi, the scammer will get all of your information. This is how you may get caught up in credit card fraud. Always ensure that a public Wi-Fi network is safe before using it Never make a purchase or log into your online banking portal using public Wi-Fi [B-02] Final Thoughts After reading this article, you should be able to better understand the different kinds of credit card fraud and how to avoid them. If you don’t understand something or have questions, visit your bank or call customer service immediately. Piramal Finance is an outstanding financing option for people who are seeking ways to protect themselves from being scammed through credit card transactions. Visit our website for other financial services like housing or MSME loans, personal loans, etc.

08-11-2023
Lifestyle

Planning to Buy a Bike? Calculate your EMI with Bike EMI Calculator

Everyone is familiar with the concept of loans or EMI. When a product is purchased by taking a loan, or EMI, one needs to repay the same in instalments. Particular interest is also charged with it. So, while buying a two-wheeler on loan, one must calculate EMI. To do so, one can use the Two-Wheeler Loan Calculator. Many online calculators can be used these days. The borrower needs to fill in the details. The calculator will do the math for them. With this, they get a clear idea about the expense before making a purchase. [B-01] Factors for bike loans One’s liability every month depends on three things. Principal amount: It is the total sum of money one needs to borrow. The larger the amount, the more EMI one needs to pay. One must try to finance as much as possible from their pocket. This keeps the EMI in check. Interest: Besides repaying the original amount, one also needs to pay interest on it. The interest rate is the percentage that the bank charges on a loan. A higher interest rate means the loan cost increases. Try comparing company loans by using a Bike Loan EMI Calculator. Time: This means the length of period one is trying to avail of the loan for. The longer the time one opts for, the higher the EMI will get. One should clear the dues fast if one wants to avoid paying a lot and one can find that out with the formula for the calculation of EMI. If anyone wants to do it on pen and paper, they can. However, using a Bike EMI Calculator is a lot simpler. EMI = [P x R x (1+R) ^N]/[(1+R) ^N-1] In the above formula: P = Principal amount R = interest/100 N = time in months Advantages of Two-Wheeler Loan Calculator Hassle-free and quick The manual way of calculating the EMI is a lengthy process. It has a lot of steps and takes up too much time. It might also give wrong results if not done properly. Conversely, a calculator will yield results in a few seconds. Easy to operate The interface of such calculators is easy to follow. The process of using it is also simple. One needs to put in the details, and it will do the math. Accuracy While calculating it manually, one is always dubious about the results. A minor mistake in the calculation will give a bad result. Such risks can be avoided if one uses Bike Loan EMI Calculator. Know the value of EMI By using these calculators, one gets to know the exact amount payable. Getting to know the amount will help them make a precise decision. Helps in selecting tenure Selecting an ideal tenure can be tricky. By using a Bike Loan Calculator one can easily select the perfect tenure. They get to compare the periods and decide as per their needs and choice. The cost breakdown is provided One will also get the breakdown of their expenses. They will get to know the charges required for processing fees and interest. Comparison If someone has multiple options, then using a calculator is best. They know which loan provider is giving them the maximum value for money. Hence in return, they get to decide better. Negotiation Once someone has a clear idea of their bike loan, they can negotiate it. The key factors are easily negotiable with the bank. They need to have well-established ground. Documents Required for the Loan One needs to provide certain documents to take a loan or avail of EMI facilities. After knowing the details of their EMI using a Bike, or EMI Calculator, one needs to arrange the required documents. The documents that one needs are different for a salaried and self-employed person. Salaried Individual ID proof of any kind: PAN card, Aadhaar card, passport, voter’s card, etc. Address proof of any kind: Voter ID, driving license, Aadhaar card, passport, etc. Proof of signature: One needs to provide signature proof. It will authorize the purchase of their bike. Income proof: salary slip and also the statement of the bank account. Self-employed person ID proof of any kind: PAN card, Aadhaar card, passport, voter’s card, etc. Address proof of any kind- Voter ID, driving license, Aadhaar card, passport, etc. Proof of signature: One needs to provide signature proof. It will authorize the purchase of their bike. Income proof: Last two years’ income tax return, profit and loss statement, and business’s audited balance sheet. One must keep these documents ready before availing of the bike loan. Besides using a Bike Loan EMI Calculator keeping the required documents handy will give one a smooth experience. This will ensure a faster process. Tax Benefits of Bike Loan One is eligible for tax exemption on their bike loan. However, this can be claimed if the bike is used for business purposes. So, if someone is a salaried individual, they cannot avail of this facility. Self-employed persons can experience few tax benefits if they get the two-wheeler for business purposes. As a business expense, they can save interest: A tax deduction can be claimed. It can be claimed on the yearly interest payment of the bike loan. They can do so by including the amount in their business expense. Transportation cost: All fuel expenses on the bike can be applied as tax-free expenses. Depreciation Cost: Tax deduction can also be claimed on maintenance costs. The amount one spends on keeping their bike in proper condition is known as maintenance cost. [B-02] Conclusion So, from the above article, it is clear that if someone is taking a loan, they must use a Bike Loan Calculator. It will give them a clear idea of how much they must pay monthly and for how long. This hassle-free process will save one a lot of time and confusion. Two-Wheeler Loan Calculator has several benefits, as discussed. If someone is looking for a good personal loan option, they can check out Piramal Finance. They have nice blogs that can be read. One can also check out their different services and products.

08-11-2023
Banking

A Complete Guide On Bank Account Opening

Imagine a life without a bank account! It will be so tough to manage your money and keep it safe. Also, you may not be able to save them or keep track of your expenses. Thus, having a bank account these days is a must and is one of the best ways to ensure the security of your money. Also, you can earn interest on your deposits, which is a great way to grow your money over time. Due to the boost of cashless and digital banking in India, having a bank account has become a must. You can open a bank account at any number of banks. Your needs and bank account features should guide your choice. This post will discuss in detail everything you need to know while opening your bank account. [B-01] How to open a bank account in India? In India, users need to meet specific criteria to open a savings account. You must be an Indian citizen. You must be at least 18 years old. For a minor, both parents or guardians must give consent. You must have ID proof. You must deposit money into the bank account. Documents Needed These documents are needed by all Indian banks when opening a bank account: An ID proof (passport, driver’s licence, etc.) An address proof. Two recent images in passport size. Reasons to open a bank account Bank accounts help you collect and save your money. It keeps your money safe, and you can use it anytime. These days, bank accounts offer several perks and features to the account holders, like net banking, mobile banking, ATMs, and credit card perks, making them more popular among people. It is a vital and useful way of saving money and keeping track of the same. Different Types Of Banks In India There are various types of banks made for multiple classes of people in India, giving huge perks to them. These banks try to meet the needs of people from all walks of life in India so that they can use banking services easily and comfortably. Bank customers in India can choose where they wish to have an account as per their needs and the perks offered by the bank. This section briefly discusses the types of banks in India. Central Bank Co-operative Bank Commercial Banka. Tier 1 (State Level): State Co-operative Banksb. Tier 2 (District Level): Central or District Co-operative Banks c. Tier 3 (Village Level): Primary Agriculture Co-operative Banks Public sector banks Private sector banks Foreign Banks Local area banks Payments Banks Different Types of Bank Accounts in India The six types of bank accounts are given below: Savings Account The most widely used bank account in India is a savings account, which lets you deposit funds and usually earns a moderate interest rate. It is one of the safest ways to keep your money in a bank and make more money. The easiest way to earn interest on money lying in banks without being used is through savings accounts. You can deposit, transfer, take loans, or fix your money from a savings bank account. Current Account A current account is a business bank account that transfers funds across several business bank accounts. These accounts are best suited for the day-to-day operations of businesses and their owners. You can overdraw your account with one of these types of accounts. Salary Account Companies with a large staff often request this service from banks so they may pay their workers online. Each worker can quickly get a salary account where their employer deposits their monthly salary. Anyone who has a job can apply for a salary account. It works just like a savings account, and you can receive funds in this account from other sources as well. Also, you can transfer money to other accounts, like a savings account. NRI Account Non-resident Indians who wish to have a bank account here can do so by getting one of these accounts. The three types of NRI accounts are as follows: (A) Non-Residential Ordinary Account (NRO) (B) Non-Residential External Account (NRE) (C) Foreign Currency Non-Residential Account (FCNR) Recurring Deposit (RD) Accounts Users who want a safe place to deposit funds and earn interest use these accounts. These accounts are a very simple method to grow your wealth beyond what a savings account will provide. One can easily open an RD and deposit money there for six months to 10 years, during which the money will earn interest. Fixed Deposit (FD) Accounts Deposits can collect interest in these accounts until they reach maturity. A fixed deposit is one of the most secure methods to save money and earn interest. FDs are safe investments with above-average returns. Most banks in India offer a higher interest rate on fixed deposits than savings accounts and recurring deposits (RDs) because of the fixed duration benefit the bank obtains in the case of FDs. [B-02] Conclusion You should first decide what type of bank account (savings, checking, recurring deposit, or fixed deposit) you want to open before moving further with the bank account opening process. A bank account can be opened in two main ways: online or in person. To open a new bank account, one can either visit a local branch and submit an application in person with all the required documents or go to the bank’s website and start the process there. Piramal Finance is an online platform that allows you to learn everything you need to know about bank accounts. For other facts about personal loans, credit cards, and financial management, check out more blogs on their website!

08-11-2023
Other

How to Invest in US Markets from India

Many global giants like Facebook, General Motors, Apple, etc. trade on the stock market in the US and are among the greatest in the world. Investing in such stocks exposes you to opportunities to grow your wealth outside India’s stock market. If you want to know how to invest in US stocks from India, there are a wide variety of options, as there are no limits on where you can trade. [B-01] How can Indians participate in the American stock market? You can buy US stocks from India if you are thinking about how to invest in the US stock market. From India, you can have access to the US stock market in two ways: 1. Stocks bought outright. 2. Invest in a pool of stocks through a mutual or exchange-traded fund. Let us discuss these two options in detail. Investments Made Directly Before choosing the best app to invest in US stocks from India, you must check the fees involved. Using a US Broker to Trade Abroad Partnerships between Indian brokers and American brokers can be seen in the industry. These third parties help with global trading. With any of these brokers, you can set up an account to trade in foreign markets. You may need to provide proof of identity and address when you open this account. Investing can be quite pricey when you check the trading fees and the cost to convert currencies. So, before opening an account, ensure you know well about all the fees to be paid. Applying to a Foreign Broker for an Overseas Trading Account An overseas broker having offices in India is one more option for setting up a trading account abroad. Charles Schwab, Ameritrade, Interactive Brokers, etc. are a few examples of such brokers. Before you open an account, be sure you fully grasp all of the costs. To invest successfully in US stocks from India, you should know well about all of your broker options. Funding Invested Indirectly It is viable to buy US stocks indirectly without actually buying any shares, just as it is possible with local stocks. We offer you ways to do this: Mutual Funds Mutual funds are a well-known way to invest in stocks and bonds in the United States. Unlike some brokers who offer direct foreign investments, no minimum deposit is required, nor is an overseas trading account required. ETFs (exchange-traded funds) Investment in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is one more way to get access to the US stock market. You can get ETF in two ways: directly and indirectly. Directly investing in US ETFs through an Indian or foreign broker is the first option. Investing in an Indian ETF tracking global indices is another option. Investing in Cutting-Edge Apps Since the rise of start-ups offering mobile apps for a variety of services, several apps have been made to aid Indian investors in trading on the US stock market. Some apps might not allow intraday trading on the US market from India because of some legal restrictions. Now that we have got to know the steps to invest in the US market from India, let us know the costs and perks of buying US stocks. How Much do the Various Fees Add Up to for Buying US Stocks? Direct Taxation Under the RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme, a 5% TCS is to be paid on any fund transfer over Rs 70,00,000. This only applies to the part of the bill that is more than Rs 70 Lakhs. Once you file your income tax return, you can get a refund of the TCS. Income Tax on Capital Gains and Dividends Indian citizens pay a 25% tax rate on dividends earned in the US. A DTAA lets the investor claim a credit for foreign taxes paid in the past to offset future tax bills. In the US, such profits are not subject to taxation. But you must pay tax in India on any profits made from selling assets. Fees Assessed by Financial Institutions There is an extra fee for making a transfer or converting currency at a bank. A one-time fee for creating an account is also possible. When you buy or sell shares, the broker will charge you a commission. Rate of Foreign Trade Prices and assigned units may fluctuate depending on the foreign exchange rate at the time of purchase or withdrawal. What Attracts Indians to Invest in US Stocks? In general, US stock market indices have been less volatile than Indian stock market indices over time. The US is home to the headquarters of most multinational firms, giving you access to a wider range of investments. The US stock market has performed better than the Indian stock market over the past decade. The US is a world leader in innovation, making it an ideal place to launch a new business. Considerations Before Buying US Stocks If you have the resources to study the US economy and market, you may be ready to open a trading account in a foreign country. Investing can save you money compared to day trading on the US stock exchanges. This is because significant fees can reduce traders’ ability to turn a profit. You can still earn good profits after fees if you invest for the long term. Consider any tax obligations that may arise per US and Indian regulations. You should invest modestly at first and then expand your stake as your knowledge of the US markets grows. [B-02] In conclusion You can diversify your stocks by US stock trading from India and investing in overseas markets. Now more than ever before, it is easy to do a brief research on firms and assess their stock performance with the wealth of data at our disposal. However, bear in mind that both perks and risks are going to be associated with investing in stocks on a global scale. That is why it is crucial to consider everything and tailor your investment strategy to your specific needs and risk tolerance. For more information on investing in US stock markets, contact the financial experts at Piramal Finance. Get yourself acquainted with wide-ranging financial products and services, especially credit cards and personal loans.

08-11-2023
Other

Reduce Your EMI Payments by Consolidating Your Debts

Have you had enough of having to pay money to creditors? Loans are no longer only used to pay for expensive items like a home or a child’s education. Customers are taking out loans in huge numbers. Some want to cover lifestyle costs, and some want to pay for basic consumer goods. So, because EMIs are getting more expensive, there isn’t much money left over for emergency funds or other important financial goals. [B-01] Debt consolidation and its potential impact on EMI debt What is debt consolidation? Debating many financial duties into a single new loan is called debt consolidation. This new consolidated loan has more favourable terms, such as a reduced interest rate, a longer tenure, etc. In this scenario, the funds obtained from the new loan are used to pay off the existing debts. Consolidating debt can be a useful way to deal with various debts. The loans that can be merged include credit cards, student loans, and other such obligations. Therefore, debt consolidation is linking many financial accounts into a single charge. This account is a merger of loans, making dealing with one’s debt burden much simpler. Various Forms of Debt Consolidation Student loan consolidation: Students who have taken out loans are often stressed about paying them back. Merging various student debts into one loan with a low interest rate can reduce stress and ease loan repayment. It is a good way to save money on EMI or interest. Borrowers with existing high-interest private student loans are the ones who can consider this option. Debt consolidation loans: A loanee with many debts who wants to merge them into one large, easy-to-manage existing loan can apply for one of these. Most loan providers do not restrict how the money from the loan can be spent. Therefore, you must use the loan profits to pay the outstanding balances on the credit cards and loans you want to merge. Also, you can start paying the new lender monthly for the loan term. If you seek a more easy way to make payments, think of this option. Equity loans on the home: The equity that is built up in your property can be put to use through the use of a home equity loan, which is also commonly known as a second mortgage. Most home equity loans come with five- to thirty-year repayment terms. Since your property is collateral for the existing loan, the interest rates on home equity loans will be far lower than those on credit cards and personal loans. The issue is that if you do not repay the loan to the bank as agreed, the bank can seize your home. If you have a regular source of income and a good amount of home equity, you may be a good candidate for this type of loan. Credit cards: Merging many credit cards into a single card changes the interest rate applied to the new card. It is by far the most popular method of consolidating financial obligations. Consider this option if you have the money to pay off your credit cards quickly. Consolidating Debt: A Guide Obtain a pre-qualification. You can check with many banks or lenders to see what they might offer you about your existing loan. You will not have to worry about your credit score going up or down just because you did so. After doing some quick research and making a list of loan programs, you can get prequalified by going to the websites of many banks or lenders. Compare various financing options. When you have at least three different loan offers, you can compare them to choose the best one. You must keep in mind that a lower interest rate might not be the best value offer if the lender also charges you a lot in processing costs. Compile the required paperwork. If you want your application to process quickly, be sure to have everything the lender might need before you submit it. Recent bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns (if self-employed) are usually required. Also, you may have to upload these files to the online application portal. Make a proper application. Always keep in mind to fill out the loan application completely. Double-check your data for typos to ensure it agrees with your submitted supporting paperwork. It is a good idea to be ready to answer questions about your employment, income, and related details, apart from the papers used to confirm your identity. Settle any outstanding debts. Debt consolidation can begin once you have been approved and have received the funds. Get in touch with your bank, creditors, and loan companies, or have the lender do it for you if that is an option they have. [B-02] Conclusion If you have a good credit score and your spending is under control, you may be able to qualify for a low-interest rate through debt consolidation. Many banks and financial organisations in India offer personal loans for debt reduction. These loan companies have fair interest rates and very easy repayment plans that make it simple to pay back the money you borrow. A debt consolidation loan can make your money management easy and hassle-free. At Piramal Finance, we can help you get over any last worries you have about taking out a new personal loan.

08-11-2023
Banking

Which Is The Best Bank For Opening An Account In India?

Money kept in a jar only rots. It doesn’t grow. However, despite a bank account being stationary and pretty much a pot, it puts your money to good use by letting you earn interest and being a secret safe for your hard-earned money. In the Gen-Z world, where everything is digitalised and working with technology is also being shifted online, it has become reasonably necessary to work only through bank accounts. Also, the government’s policies favouring citizens opening bank accounts make it all the more critical for you to have a bank account. You can open your bank account after filling in all the requirements for opening a bank account. Let’s look at the best banks where you can open your bank account to keep your finances safe. [B-01] Personal finance and tax savings: how to manage? Working hard at your job and then losing that hard-earned money to undetermined causes is demoralizing. Hence, receiving money directly from your bank account is worth the challenge. These are some banks where you can open bank accounts. State Bank of India (SBI) SBI is the banking giant of India and an Indian public sector bank with operations in several countries. They have been offering banking services in India for more than 200 years; it is one of the oldest banks offering the best banking services. SBI Bank Current Account All you need to do is verify your KYC documents, and you are eligible to open your current account with a minimum balance of INR 5,000. SBI Bank Savings Account There is no minimum balance requirement, and the rate of interest on savings accounts is 2.70%. Canara Bank The process is swift and easy at Canara. In 1969, 14 banks were nationalised by Indira Gandhi. Canara Bank was one of them. Canara Bank prioritises its customers, and one can certainly call it a “financial conglomerate.” Currently, it has almost ten subsidiaries and many joint ventures. Canara Bank also provides credit card facilities to farmers. It even provides an intercity ATM facility for its users. Canara Bank Current Account This account is basically for organisations, and the main feature of this account is maintaining a minimum balance of INR 5,000 for overdraft facilities for businesses. Canara Bank Savings Account The process is fast and offers a 2.90%–3.20% current interest rate. You would have to maintain a minimum of INR 1000 as a balance. However, there is no cap on the maximum compensation in any Canara Bank account. Canara Bank Fixed Deposit Account This account ranges from 7 days to 10 years, with the minimum investment for opening being INR 1000, which also offers tax savings through deduction under Section 80C. The interest rate is higher than the savings account, which ranges from 2.95% to 5.50%. Punjab National Bank (PNB) Founded in Lahore way back in 1894, with nine banks merging, PNB is the second-largest bank in India, owned by the Ministry of Finance. PNB Bank Current Account To open the current account, you must maintain INR 5,000 as a minimum balance and verify your KYC documents. PNB Bank Savings Account There is no requirement to maintain a minimum balance, and an interest rate of around 3% is offered. However, the minimum and maximum amounts also depend on the customer. PNB Bank Fixed Deposit Account The tenure varies from 7 days to 10 years, and the interest rate ranges from 3% to 5.25%. You would require a minimum investment of INR 100, and tax deductions are also included. HDFC Bank The largest private sector bank, HDFC, plays a crucial role in transforming the way that financial services are provided. HDFC Bank Current Account You should maintain a minimum balance of at least INR 5,000, which also meets all the requirements for an organisational service. HDFC Bank Savings Account The minimum balance varies depending on the type of savings account, with a 3% interest rate. There is also no cap on the maximum amount of money. HDFC Bank Fixed Deposit Account You can choose fixed deposits with terms ranging from 7 days to 10 years, interest rates ranging from 2.50% to 5.50%, and a minimum deposit of INR 5,000 to start the account. Under Section 80C, you can also get a tax break of up to INR 1.5 million if you invest in HDFC. ICICI Bank Established in 1994 and the first bank listed on the New York Stock Exchange, ICICI is one of the leading private sector banks that provides a diversified portfolio and serves retail, SME, and corporate clients. ICICI Bank Current Account ICICI Bank has a current account with a minimum balance of INR 25,000 and an overdraft facility, both of which are designed to meet customer needs. ICICI Bank Savings Account You can open this account online with the condition that you maintain a minimum balance of INR 10,000 and an interest rate of 3.00 %. There is no cap on the maximum amount, and it contains a lot of attractive benefits. ICICI Bank Fixed Deposit Account Ranging from 7 days to 10 years, the minimum investment for opening is INR 10,000, which contains an interest rate ranging from 2.50% to 5.50%, and the minimum investment is INR 10,000. [B-02] Conclusion After looking through the best banks where you can open bank accounts, you must be clear about what you need a bank to do for you as an earner. Bank accounts are the perfect way to keep your money safe and secure, more so in an age where you can go with the times. However, if, in any case, you aren’t able to figure it out with just this article, then contact and consult financial expert Piramal Finance. It has been created with you as an ordinary individual in mind, where they can provide expert solutions on personal loans, credit cards, and other financial services and products.

08-11-2023