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It may seem hard to save enough money to purchase a home. But if you have a strong savings plan, anyone may accumulate enough cash for a down payment on the home of their dreams. Tips to save money to buy your dream house 1. Build a better budget Setting a budget is a very crucial step in the saving process. It is tough to redirect money to your down payment if you don't know where your money goes each month. You need to be very careful in calculating your monthly income, taking into account any income from a spouse or partner who will also be helping with the down payment.  Next, gather all of your payments and credit card statements in one place. Take a look at your spending patterns. Keep track of how much you spend on basics like utilities, rent, and student loan repayment. Next, think about how much money you spend on non-essentials like entertainment, dining out, etc. each month. If you want to avoid doing this manually, a budgeting tool can help you automate the process. Getting the assistance of a financial counselor might give you a better concept of what your budget should look like if it all still seems too daunting. Once you've broken down your spending into categories, search for places you may make savings. For each category, establish a firm (but reasonable) budget and adhere to it. Make sure to set aside a particular amount of money each month in your budget for your down payment. Think of your savings as a necessary cost. 2. Stick to the 50-30-20 rule Following a 50-30-20 budget, where 50% of your take-home income is set aside for fixed bills, 30% for any discretionary needs, and 20% for savings, is one way to make significant savings. Although it won't be simple, giving up conveniences you may otherwise be able to afford will be well worth the effort after you move into your new home. 3. Search for other employment options  Even if it isn't always practical, changing professions and earning a larger salary might help you save money for a down payment. To find out if you make as much money as those who hold positions comparable to yours, look through websites that list job openings and wage comparisons. Consider using your results as leverage to negotiate a raise or ask about a promotion at work if you find out your income is below the industry average. Consider looking for higher-paying jobs you are qualified for if you don't enjoy your job or can't obtain a raise. 4. Consider making lifestyle adjustments You should think about major lifestyle adjustments if you are committed to buying your own house. Moving temporarily to a smaller apartment is one option that might help you save a significant amount on your monthly rent. In addition to your regular job, you could think about alternative income options. You may save for that down payment on your house by doing both, living within your means for at least two to three years, and reducing spending like vacations, entertainment, and other expensive memberships. 5. Invest in profit-earning instruments You must invest in various types of money growth instruments to accumulate a corpus of at least INR 50 lakh over the next ten years. Doing so will allow you to earn a respectable rate of appreciation throughout that time. Consider investing in mutual funds, fixed deposits, public provident funds, or all three (PPF).  Mutual funds can help you earn returns of between 9 and 15 percent annually, depending on the coverage you choose. PPF, on the other hand, gives an interest rate that is around 7.1% yearly compounded. The ability to start an account with as little as INR 100 is the nicest aspect of investing in a PPF.  Unlike mutual funds, investing in PPF carries no risk at all. You may contact our professionals at EduFund, and they will assist you with the proper course of action for investing. Download the EduFund app and create an account to start investing. With zero charges and no hassle account opening process is from the comfort of your home. 6. Try a systematic investment plan (SIP) A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) enables a recurring investment of a defined sum into a mutual fund program. With a minimum commitment of INR 500, you may participate in a mutual fund plan via SIP and take advantage of rupee-cost averaging and compounding. When you consistently invest, regardless of the state of the market, you usually end up with more units during times of low demand and fewer during times of strong demand. This substantially lowers your entire investment cost. The down payment amount might range from thousands to even lakhs in rupees, depending on the home you pick. It's wise to conduct some study and select the option that best satisfies your emotional requirements and preferences as well as your financial circumstances. TALK TO AN EXPERT

There are hundreds of scholarships for Ireland that international students can avail themselves to fund their dreams. These awards either provide full or partial funding depending on the requirements, program, and institution and the student’s merits and application. Before applying for a scholarship, it is crucial to carefully review the selection criteria because Irish scholarships can be extremely competitive. Good academic standing is crucial if you want to receive a scholarship in Ireland. Both written proposals and volunteer experience are requirements for students. It's essential to have results of English proficiency tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc., as well as relevant letters of recommendation. Let’s look at some scholarships for Ireland to fund your child’s college degree in detail: Ireland government scholarships International students who can excel in their chosen fields of study and advance to positions of leadership in their fields are the target audience for the government of Ireland's scholarships. The Higher Education Authority is responsible for managing government of Ireland scholarships. Ireland offers a large number of fully paid scholarships. The organization awards 60 scholarships to students in any field of study from the European Union and all other nations. The scholarships are meant for Bachelor's, Master's, and doctorate. Financial support of ₹7 - 8 lakhs for one academic year. Applications may be submitted online using the website. Additional read: Scholarships in Germany Ireland government postgraduate scholarship program The Ireland government offers some postgraduate scholarships, especially for international students. Financial Coverage Annual stipend of ₹10 - 15 lakhs. Contribution to fees, which includes non-EU fees, is limited to a maximum of ₹4.5 lakhs per year. Annual eligible direct research expenses are ₹1.5 - 2 lakhs. Eligibility Criteria Both EU and non-EU students may apply. Students who want results can also apply. Bachelor's degree in first or upper second class with honors, or an equivalent degree (equivalent to or exceeding 60% on the percentage scale or B on the international scale), There is no age limit. Additional read: Scholarships in Australia Ireland university and college scholarships for international students 1. Nui Galway international student scholarships International Student Scholarships at NUI Galway is available to non-EU students. The fellowship is open to students enrolling in undergraduate, graduate, or doctorate programs. Benefits: Each year, students receive between ₹1.6 and 3.2 lakhs. Some programs waive tuition costs while giving research candidates a yearly grant of ₹10 - 13 lakhs. 2. Maynooth University Scholarships One of the best universities in Ireland is Maynooth University. It gives several kinds of scholarships including sports scholarships, music scholarships, admission scholarships, intel women in technology scholarships, etc. Benefits: Awards range from ₹80,000 to 3,20,000 annually. Depending on the sort of scholarship, students may also receive some extra advantages. For instance, the athletic scholarship might assist students with both sports-related and other fees. 3. Trinity College Dublin Scholarships Another well-known college in Ireland that awards scholarships to several international students enrolling in undergraduate or graduate programs are Trinity College. Benefits: Waivers of fees, living expenses coverage, health insurance, etc. Depending on the type of grant, students can expect to receive between ₹4 and ₹8 lakhs. 4. University College Cork Scholarship Excellence scholarships are available from University College Cork to students participating in various undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. programs. Benefits: The funding exclusively covers EU fees. The outstanding fees must be paid by non-EU students. The living cost is covered for students outside of the EU. Additional read: Scholarship in Singapore Other Ireland programs for scholarship Other organizations offering scholarships to international students: 1. The Walsh Fellowship Only EU fees are covered by funding. The remaining tuition is due for non-EU students. The living cost is funded for international students. The scholarships are for 4 years for Ph.D. programs and in exceptional cases, 2 years for M.Sc students. Funding worth ₹30 crores per year is committed to the program. Ph.D. programs in agriculture, food, horticulture, rural development, etc are given priority for these awards. 2. Central Bank of Ireland Undergraduate Scholarships For International Students A fully financed part-time honors degree scholarship program in Griffith College has been made available by the Central Bank of Ireland for international students. A contract for full-time employment of 4 years at the Central Bank of Ireland will be signed, alongside a seat in a 3-year part-time graduate degree - BA (Hons) in Business Studies or Accountancy & Finance. Benefits ₹20 - 23 lakhs annual salary. 24 days of leave per year. Educational assistance, as well as paid study, leave. Hybrid working (balance of working from home and office) Pension schemes, and more. For all the great brains out there, scholarships in Ireland are undoubtedly a profitable alternative. You must keep in mind, though, that scholarships are competitive, therefore it is advised that you apply to several to have backup choices. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Education loans are a tremendous option if you don’t have enough funds to fuel your child’s dream. If you have the ability to pay your tuition and other expenses in installments, education loans may be a good fit for you. Let’s look at the list of expenses covered under education loans. Does an education loan cover living expenses? The simple answer is Yes! The amount of living expenditure coverage provided by banks varies from one bank to the next. Food, rent, everyday expenses, and other living costs are all included in the extremely broad area of living expenses. The manner expenditures are paid for by the loans is not consistent. While some banks may have a different system for determining the cost of living assessment, others may impose a cap on the monthly costs subject to a particular percentage of the entire loan amount. The reason it's crucial to focus on the specifics of the degree of loan coverage being provided on a certain loan. List of expenses covered under education loan Get in touch with our specialists at EduFund if you want to get an education loan so you can quickly get loans up to INR 1 Cr to study in India or abroad. Simply compare and use. It's that easy! 1. Tuition fees The majority of your expenditures, which include tuition fees, are covered by all forms of student loans. All lenders will pay for the tuition, which is the foundation of your international education. Even the smallest student loans mostly pay for school 2. Cost of living  Your living costs while you reside in the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, etc., are occasionally greater than those of your complete family in India. The local and foreign currency exchange rates are to blame for this. Rent, food, local transportation, and other costs are all paid for by the education loan. The bank or lenders will determine how much they are covered. 3. Exam and studies-related costs  Education Loan expenses include those for books, computers, exams, extracurricular activities, and other things needed for studying. Some banks are only permitted to pay for these costs if they don't equal more than 20% of the overall loan amount. 4. Air travel tickets For students from low-income and middle-class families, traveling to a distant country requires a major financial commitment. Flights from India to London or Toronto one day may be expensive. An aircraft ticket may cost between 50,000 and 1 lakh Indian Rupees. Many lenders may let the provision include the cost of the aircraft ticket in the total loan debt even though it is not a sizable sum. It must be taken into account that travel expenditures are not often counted as a loan failure by banks. The borrower may choose to include this. It is advised to include the cost of transportation in the loan for those who cannot pay it. 5. Health insurance Student loans frequently do not include health insurance. Most lending organizations don't pay for the cost of health insurance. However, depending on the borrower's request, certain banks may agree to pay the cost of health insurance. Because of this, very few banks would count health insurance as part of the loan. What costs are not covered by a student loan? Tickets to movies, individual travel, and other such entertainment costs are not covered by student loans. Only tuition fees are in default across all college loans from different banks, even for costs reimbursed by education loans. Other costs, such as rent or other living expenses and airline tickets, are either not covered at all or only partially reimbursed (30–40%). How to calculate expenses covered in education loans? Make sure you have a good idea of the costs you anticipate incurring while studying abroad before you approach banks or other lenders for school loans. Here are some things to take into account when estimating school loan repayment costs: The cost of lodging close to the university where you have been accepted. Depending on whether you can cook, the cost of food. the price of gasoline and other forms of public transportation. Therefore if you're interested in studying abroad, don't delay any longer because there are accessible education loans available to help you reach your dream university! Finally, before making any decisions, always be sure to carefully study all documentation relating to the scheme. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Living expenses in France for Indian students depend on the location of their residence and individual lifestyle. The cost of living in Paris is no doubt more than in Lyon or Grenoble. Similarly, if a student loves to eat in restaurants and not on campus, then their cost of living will automatically rise. The average monthly living expenses in France vary between EUR 1000 - EUR 1350 per month (nearly INR 79,960– INR 1,07,946). It is quite reasonable if you consider other countries like the USA and UK.  International students should be aware of the cost of living in the city they will be studying in. Take the help of the college cost calculator on the Edufund App to factor in the necessary costs like food, rent, traveling, health insurance, etc. to calculate the living expenses. Living expenses in France for Indian students 1. Food (average monthly cost) The cost of food depends upon an individual and whether they want to cook at home, eat on campus or at restaurants.  An overview of the food expenses based on cities is- City Cost Grenoble EUR  200 – EUR 300 (nearly INR 15,992- INR 23,988) per month.BordeauxOutside meals are EUR 0.90 – EUR 6 (nearly INR 72 - INR 479) per meal.Nantes EUR 200 (nearly INR 15,992) per month.LyonEUR  300 (nearly INR 23,988) per month.Paris Meals outside per meal EUR 9 – EUR 15 (nearly INR 719 - INR 1,199). 2. Cost of basic grocery items Food and BeveragesCostBread EUR 1.20 (nearly INR 95.9).Potatoes 1 kgEUR 1.89 (nearly INR 151.1).Apples 1 kgEUR 2.98 (nearly INR 238.2).Local cheeseEUR 7 (nearly INR 559.7).MilkEUR 1.10 (nearly INR 87.9).Eggs (12)EUR 4.29 (nearly INR 343).Boneless chicken breast 500 gmsEUR 5.29 (nearly INR 422.9).Tomatoes 1 kgEUR 2.94 (nearly INR 235). 3. Accommodation The average monthly cost of accommodation in France is based on whether the student is living in a student's hostel or private housing and in which city they are residing. The student hostel is no doubt cheaper than private housing.  An overview of the rent based on the area of stay follows- City Cost per month Grenoble EUR  200 – EUR 500 (nearly INR 15,992- INR 39,980).MontpellierEUR  335 – EUR  522 (nearly INR 26,786 - INR 41,739).Nantes EUR 250 – EUR 550 (nearly INR 19,990- INR 43,978).LyonEUR  400 – EUR  550 (nearly INR 31,984- INR 43,978).Paris EUR  300 – EUR  500 (nearly INR 23,988 - INR 39,980). 4. Transportation costs Public transport in France is well-connected and extensive. The city’s metro is easy to navigate, and the weekly tickets cost EUR 0.85 (nearly INR 67.96) plus EUR 1 (nearly INR 79.96) refundable deposit fee per trip at EUR 21 (nearly INR 1,679) per month. The public transport is pretty reliable and cheap with the bus fare being EUR 2-3 (nearly INR 159 – INR 239) return, train fare at EUR 6 (nearly INR 479) per person one-way and taxis at EUR 10 – EUR 15 (nearly INR 799 – INR 1,199) one way.  The cost per month, depending upon the area of study is CityCost Per MonthGrenobleRental Bike EUR 10 – EUR 25 (nearly INR 799 - INR 1,999).TAG transportation service EUR 10 - EUR 60 (nearly INR 799 - INR 4,797).Nantes EUR 50 (nearly INR 3,998)Lyon Public transport (bus, metro) is EUR 13.20 monthly for a 10-ticket book. (nearly INR 1,055)Travel card - EUR 32.50 (nearly INR 2,598).ParisYearly pass EUR 333.50 (nearly INR 26,666)Taxi (1 hour) – EUR 40 (nearly INR 3,198). 5. Personal Expenses Mobile phone – EUR 50 (nearly INR 1,599) per month. Entertainment – EUR 240 (nearly INR 19,190). Internet – EUR 30 (nearly INR 2,398). Magazines, stationary – EUR 80 (nearly INR 6,396). Hobbies EUR 100 (nearly INR 7,996). 6. Health Insurance Health insurance is mandatory and an integral part of the living expenses in France for international students. Although a part of it is covered by the government, students have to pay one-time or annual fees as required.  City CostsGrenobleHome insurance - EUR 40 – EUR 100 per annum (nearly INR 3,198 – INR 7,996).Healthcare visit – EUR 25 (nearly INR 1,999).NantesEUR 350 per annum (nearly INR 27,986).LyonEUR 50 one-time cost (nearly INR 3,998).ParisSocial security EUR 92 (nearly INR 7,356).Civil liability insurance – EUR 30 (nearly INR 2,398). Conclusion Quality education at top universities and affordable living expenses in France for international students makes it a desired hub to study abroad. Students should try to stick to their budget to make their stay comfortable.  The college cost calculator on EduFund is a guiding tool that gives an estimate of future expenses so that students can be mindful of the money they will need as living expenses in France.  TALK TO AN EXPERT

Due to a lack of funding, many students are unable to pursue quality education. As a result, students who desire to continue higher education, especially at universities abroad, choose to take out an education loan. In this blog we have discussed how can you save money and study by choosing the best education loans in India. Top banks for education loans in India Mentioned below is the list of top banks in India with interest rates for education loans: Best education loans in India Following are the best education loan in India you can opt for your children's further studies: 1. SBI education loan Additional read: Does education inflation impact student loan interest rates? 2. HDFC bank education loan 3. Punjab national bank education loan 4. Axis bank education loan What are the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for an education loan? One must be an Indian citizen who has been admitted into an institution or university that is recognized by a competent body in India or overseas.  The candidate must have successfully finished senior high school.  Even before a student has been admitted to a university, certain banks may provide a loan. Although certain banks may do so, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines specify that there are no higher age restrictions.  The banks want additional paperwork including the institution's acceptance letter, fee schedule, and Class X, XII, and graduation (if applicable) mark sheets.  It's also necessary to have the co-applicants income documentation, such as pay stubs or income-tax returns (ITR). Is collateral required for financing the loan? Banks will contribute up to 100% of the loan, depending on the amount. For loans up to Rs. 4 lakh, no margin money is now necessary. The candidate is required to provide 5% of the required funding in order to study in India.  On the other hand, the required margin money for abroad studies increases to 15%. Loans beyond Rs 7.5 lakh may also require collateral from the banks. Financial institutions do not require any collateral or third-party guarantees for loans up to Rs 4 lakh.  For loans between Rs. 4 lakh and Rs. 7.5 lakh, a third-party guarantee is necessary. A security deposit is needed for loans that are more than Rs 7.5 lakh. When a loan application is granted, the banks transmit the money straight to the institution or university in accordance with the fee structure. What is the process of repayment? The person who takes out the loan for their schooling is in charge of paying it back. Repayment usually starts once the course is over. Additionally, some banks allow you a grace period of six months or a year after you graduate from school before you are required to repay your loan.  Normal repayment terms range from 5 to 7 years, however, they can potentially be extended. Over the course of the loan's payback tenure, the bank assesses a standard interest rate. By paying basic interest during the course, the student's equivalent monthly installment (EMI) burden for future repayments is decreased. How to apply for an education loan? You can visit the Education Loans page on the EduFund website and fill up a simple form. You will get all the details, along with guidance from experts in the field. Taking out a loan may seem terrifying, but if the student is dedicated and makes the most of the opportunity, it will undoubtedly pay off in the long term. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

In India, most people earn less than Rs 20,000 a month, and in such a high inflationary environment, it becomes challenging to save money from your salary. Saving is as important as meeting your current needs; it helps you prepare for your future goals and save for an emergency. Let’s find out how to save money with a Rs. 20,000 salary in India!   Developing a habit of saving may be difficult for many salaried people, but in the long run, it can be very beneficial. It not only helps you accumulate wealth, but also teaches you to budget your needs, and expenses, save on unnecessary expenses, and allows you to make the most of your hard-earned money.  Whether you earn 20,000 or 2,00,000, investing and saving a percentage of this income is a habit thousands of millennials and Gen Z are picking up gradually. Ways to save money with a 20000 salary 1. Make a monthly budget before each paycheck Making a monthly budget will help you keep track of where your money is going and control your expenses. Making a monthly budget will help you to categorize your monthly spending. This will help you to avoid overspending, and you will be able to save some money from your monthly salary. 2. Try to clear debt with high interest rates If you have taken any loans, then try to pay off debts with the highest interest rates first. If you have not taken any loans, then try to avoid taking any fresh loans. For instance, a personal loan attracts huge interest. One should always avoid taking it into consideration. 3. Cutting down on monthly expenses You can cut down your monthly expenses in many ways, like lowering the expenses, credit card spending, electricity, mobile recharges, entertainment expenses, avoiding outside food, prudent grocery shopping, transportation, etc. By saving a few bucks from each category, you can actually save a lot of money. 4. Start investing your savings Just saving money will not help in any way until you invest it in the right asset class. If you are just saving and not investing, then your money is losing its value with time. So, investing becomes the most important part of your savings. In investing, the most critical factor is time. You need to start investing as soon as possible. You can also start your saving and investing journey with just Rs 500. The idea is to start early, even with a small amount of money. 5. Cancel unused subscription You might have taken subscriptions from different websites like Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc., but you are not using those monthly. So, you can cancel all your unused subscriptions and save a couple of bucks every month. How to save 50 lakhs for a child’s bachelor’s in New Zealand? Read More 6. Avoid late fees Avoid late fees on loans. Avoiding late fees can help plan your expenses and become systematic, and you can save money. A late fee is an extra expense that might not be planned or part of your budget. 7. Prudent grocery shopping Grocery is a must for every household and is important. One can save money in grocery buying in different ways like one can go for bulk shopping so that it will reduce the per unit cost. Another way could be to get a shopping card which allows a discount on monthly grocery shopping. 8. Shop during sales Shopping during times of sales will definitely be going to help you save money. During sales like Diwali or summer, you can find heavy discounts on clothing and other accessories. 9. Avoid impulsive buying Impulsive buying means an unplanned decision by a consumer to buy a product or a service. So, one needs to avoid impulsive buying, and if you make an unplanned decision, this will increase your unnecessary expenses. And you will end up buying things which are not important. 10. Pay yourself first Remember to pay yourself first. Do not compromise on your health; upgrade your skills, and reward yourself first. Always remember your health is wealth. Conclusion By following the above-mentioned steps, you can start saving early and develop an investment plan. Don’t wait for your salary to increase to start saving, even if your salary is low, you can start as small as Rs. 500 every month and watch how this small amount grows. Budgeting and saving small sums of money can make a huge change in your savings habit, meeting future expenses, etc.  Just ensure that you analyze the benefits of your spending. Make short-term goals to help you save money. If you save today, then you will be able to tackle any kind of emergency in the future.

Every investor is looking for a well-diversified portfolio. However, due to a lack of knowledge, investors can't do it themselves.  Here, EduFund comes in to solve your problem at no extra cost. How? Let's find out in this blog Why Educase? There are different educases to meet the requirements of every level of investor. Every case is made with proper diversification and the right asset allocation. For aggressive risk or long-term category of investors, the exposure is more in the equity asset class to provide good returns and for an investor with a short-term view (6 months), the exposure is more in the debt asset class. So, these cases meet the requirements of every investor. What is Navi Skyscraper Returns Educase? Navi Educase is a pack of multiple equity mutual funds investing across market capitalization and sectors, with most of the Index funds. Navi Skyscraper Returns is an aggressive risk category educase that invests your money in equity funds having high growth potential. This educase comes up with relatively low volatility and stable returns because this educase invests majorly in Index funds. Why Navi Skyscraper Returns Educase? It provides you with a well-diversified portfolio from a wide range of large, mid, and small-cap companies at a very low cost with the benefit of annual rebalancing. The past data on educases has been back-tested before implementation. The strategy behind Aggressive Educase This educase is designed in such a way that it beats inflation and helps you to create wealth over a long-term period. Index funds have been given more weightage to provide consistency in returns and match the market returns. Who should invest in? Early parents who have just started saving for their toddlers and have more than 7 years to save. Since the educase only consists of equity funds, the returns may not be seen in a shorter period, but in a longer period, returns will be more than average. Advantages No extra cost - There is no hidden or extra cost being charged to invest in educase. Annual rebalancing - All the Navi educases are rebalanced annually if required.  Continuous monitoring - Navi educases are tracked and monitored continuously. Lowest expense ratio – Navi as an AMC (Asset Management Company) offers the lowest expense ratio in the industry. So this educase has the lowest expense ratio because of the Index fund. Experienced Research Team – The EduFund research team has a total experience of more than 35 years collectively. Due Diligence – Educases are made after proper research and due diligence is done by the EduFund research team. How can you invest in Navi Educase? The process is simple and paperless: Download the EduFund app from the Apple Store or Android Play Store. Complete the KYC process. Calculate your risk appetite. Explore the Navi Educase under Educases. And place your order.

Having children involved in extracurricular activities has increasingly become the norm. Most parents want their children to be educated, engaged, and well-rounded individuals. However, some of these practices might be too expensive without proper planning and budgeting. Different forms of extracurricular activities are priced differently. And they might vary greatly depending on the activity and the region of the nation in which you live. Some popular extracurricular sports include basketball, cricket, aerobics, dancing, athletics, skating, combat sports, hockey, tennis, swimming, golf, track/running, and volleyball. Acting/drama, art (painting, sketching, and sculpture), and even gaming fall under extracurricular activities. While some of these activities are completely free, others might be costly. As a result, diversifying the expenditures will benefit your entire budget if you involve your children in various activities. Average expenses for extracurricular activities One factor to consider when deciding which activities to involve your children in is the expense. While this is not always the most significant issue, it is crucial to consider the activity from various perspectives to determine how it will affect you financially. Another aspect to consider is the amount of time it will take away from the family's lifestyle and whether it can be managed properly. Include the cost of time as well. Travel time, preparation duration, practice sessions, and outcome of the activities are all factors. Some sports competitions might last all day or even longer. The typical cost of a dance class varies based on the institution and the frequency of the courses. Dance academies often provide various packages to meet their pupils' learning needs. The average monthly cost of dancing instruction in India is Rs. 1,105.  The finest cricket academy in Chennai offers 6-month training for Rs.50,000. Other academies charge between Rs.3000-5000 per month for teaching. The pricing range might alter in different states, such as Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. However, for an average coaching academy in India, you need to budget at least 3000-4000 per month as a price. Recurring cost of extracurricular activities The charges for extracurricular activities are recurrent. It is the expenditure that occurs regularly and is expected monthly and annually. The pace at which it rises or falls, as well as the period for which the cost applies, are all connected. Such expenditure might be tough to budget for because it can change frequently based on the interests of your child. Creating a section for entertainment and extracurricular expenses in your budget and adhering to it might help you better account for all other expenditures connected with such expenses. Additional read: Budgeting tips for parents Short-term savings & yearly returns Short-term investments are brief or equity instruments that can be readily turned into cash. Short-term investments are liquid assets that offer a safe and temporary destination for cash reserves. In the event of short-term investments, the funds can be converted to cash after 3 to 12 months. High-yield investment funds, investment securities, treasury securities, and government bonds are attractive short-term investment vehicles. Let's look at the best short-term investment opportunities for 2022. Bank Fixed Deposits - Fixed deposit accounts provide a guaranteed interest rate on investment and returns after the fund's tenure. Fixed deposits currently provide 5-8% interest rates for investments of more than a year. Debt Instrument - Debt funds are regarded as one of the greatest short-term investments since they provide investors with minimal risk and consistent returns. Currently, debt funds provide an investment return of 7-9%. Large-Cap Mutual Funds – The large-cap mutual fund plan provides investors with high liquidity and significant investment returns. Large-cap investments in mutual funds are a secure short-term investment choice with minimal risk and a good return of 8%-13%. Money Market Account - Money market fund returns are not definite or set. MMF currently provides an annual interest rate of 7%. Post-office Time Deposits - The deposited money's interest rate is calculated annually. The post office program does not permit early withdrawal before the end of the six months. Recurring Deposits - As one of the top short-term investment plans, the interest rate on Recurring Deposit accounts is the same as that on Bank FDs. The appropriate interest rate for 12 months or more is 6.5% yearly. TALK TO AN EXPERT

As someone once said, "He who buys what he does not need steals from himself". Saving is an art; one learns to master it with time, but you don't have to wait. You can know how to save right now! Here is the best way to save money in India and learn from others so you don't spend more than you need to.  1. Save money by budgeting Budgeting your expenses is the most underrated yet obvious way to save money in India or elsewhere. By calculating your spending and where you are, you can find your monthly costs and check whether they fall within your income bracket.    Budgeting can help you understand where you are overspending, how to cut back on your expenses, and whether there is a leak in your budget, for example, a TATA Sky subscription you no longer use but are being charged for it every year. Take out your bank statement, assess where you are spending most of your money, and start budgeting. You don't have to cut down on all your luxuries, but you can eliminate the ones you no longer need or enjoy!    2. Save money by shopping online    Another best way to save money in India is to reap the benefits of digitalization and online shopping. Most brands offer great discounts and offers on items online to attract customers and retain them for the long run. For example, check different online shopping sites if you want to buy a TV. Figure out the best price by comparing it with various portals. You can also use this practice to book trips, hotels, and flights and easily save money in India.    3. Save money by using public transportation    Another way to save money in India is to use public transportation! India's metro cities are well-connected, and the availability of public transport helps Indians save money easily. This practice is not only good for your pocket but the environment. If you travel by private cabs to your office or college, switch to local trains, metro, or buses. If you use your car for daily commuting, look for carpooling with your co-workers or friends. This is a cost-effective way to save money on daily commutes for you and your colleagues.    4. Save money by avoiding lifestyle inflation   Most people fall victim to lifestyle inflation around the world. If you have increased your spending with an increase in your salary, you are a victim of lifestyle inflation. It is a phenomenon wherein people's wants increase with a rise in their incomes. It's easy to fall prey to this phenomenon because most people are unaware; a yearly bonus spent on a spontaneous trip or buying a new iPhone as soon as you receive your salary are some examples of lifestyle inflation.    Try to be conscious of your expenses and not spend your increment on luxuries or wants. Instead, try to save and invest it to make the most of your savings in the long run.    5. Save money by investing    Shockingly enough, only 2% of the Indian population is an investor in the stock market. Most Indians are averse to investing and miss out on an opportunity to create a rich corpus for themselves. But the scenario is changing; more and more people understand the benefits of saving and investing through social media. The opportunity to start investing as low as Rs. 100 or Rs. 500 has opened doors for people with no substantial disposable income but who wish to start soon and be regular.    Make the most of this finance trend in India; invest wisely and consistently so that you can save money on long-term goals like a house, your child's education, or an international trip! Explore SIP as an investment method and start saving Rs. 1000 every month in your chosen fund, ETF, or stock. You can also consult a financial advisor if you are new to investing and require expert guidance!   6. Saving money by creating passive income    Saving money also requires creating different income sources, so you do not have to rely on one source. This is a tremendous savings tip because it protects you in times of recession and job loss. Some ways to create passive income would be to invest in stocks that provide dividends to their stakeholders or skill-up to sell services like consultancy on jobs.    7. Saving money by reducing your debt   Another way to save money in India is to work towards reducing your debt to a manageable amount within your income. Try not to purchase too many items on EMI, no matter how attractive the monthly cost may be. Please avoid using your credit card for every purchase and limit your monthly expenses so you don't create a mountain of debt without realizing it.    You can use these tips and the best ways to save money in India to build a sustainable lifestyle. Avoid overindulging, and try to understand your cash flow so that you can save your hard-earned money.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Education loans for the USA have become a necessity because the cost of studying abroad is incredibly expensive. Every year Indian students travel to the USA to pursue their education at the top universities. Only some of them manage to arrange the funds, as the rest of them have to rely on education loans.  Several banks and NBFCs in India are offering education loans to interested students at reasonable rates to study in the USA.  It is essential to note that most banks do not provide 100% money for funding overseas education as 10% of the total amount has to be arranged by the aspiring student. Before applying for the loan, students should check the website of the desired university and know about the living expenses and fee structure to determine the actual amount they will need. They can use the loan eligibility calculator on the EduFund app to get a better idea about the amount they would be eligible to receive from a bank. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gTQkdePOWM Education loans for the USA offered by banks  HDFC Bank Education Loan for Foreign Education – The scheme offers tax benefits, and the maximum loan amount offered is INR 20 lakhs. Oriental Bank of Commerce Education Loan for Study in India and Abroad – The loan amount depends on the fee structure of the university. SBI Student Loan Scheme – The maximum loan amount offered under this scheme is INR 1.50 crore, repaid within 15 years. Collateral is a must if the loan amount is more than INR 7.5 lakhs. Education loans for the USA offered by NBFCs Credit – the loan is offered at a floating rate of interest for 10 years. Avanse – interest rates are floating, and the processing fees are between 1 – 2% of the loan amount. Global Student Loan Corporation – this scheme does not require a co-signer. Eligibility of education loan for the USA The applicant must be a citizen of India. The co-applicants must be Indian citizens. The applicant must be 18+ years and above. Confirmed admission to a credible university in the USA. Strong academic record. Banks give preference to students studying technical or professional courses. Documents required to apply for an education loan Properly filled the application form. Admission letter from the university. The estimated cost of study. ID proof of the applicant and co-applicant. Address proof. Passport-size photographs. Income proof. Passport copy. School and university mark sheet. Documents of the qualifying exams like TOEFL, GMAT, etc. Foreign exchange permit letter. A brief statement of the assets and liabilities of the co-borrower/ guarantor/parents. Expenses covered under the education loan Tuition fees. Hostel fees. Caution fees. A refundable deposit and building fund. Laboratory, library, and examination fees. Cost of uniforms, books, instruments, and equipment. Cost of laptop if required. Traveling expenses. Insurance premium if applicable. Other expenses like projects or study tours. Repayment of education loan The terms of repayment of the education loan for the USA start after six months or one year once the borrower has secured a job or their course is complete, whichever comes first.  Tax Benefits Loan applicants can claim tax benefits and deductions only on the interest paid for seven consecutive years and not the principal loan amount under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act.  Additional read: Education loan for studying in Canada Factors to keep in mind before applying for the education loan Finalize the course and the university where you want to study.  Check the appropriate website to know about the required amount. Factor in all the expenses. Get an estimate of the total loan amount you will require. Make a list of required documents. Select a guarantor or a co-signer. Estimate the time of disbursement. How to apply for an education loan  The process of securing an education loan is time-consuming, so it is advisable to apply at the earliest possible moment.  Visit the representative of the financial institution. Check whether the study course is recognized as valid. Compare the loans provided by different banks and NBFCs based on the following parameters. Interest rate. Processing fees. Tenure or loan processing time. Expenses that are included in the education loan. Loan margin. Repayment terms. Start the education loan process immediately after submitting the application form for admission to the university.  Apply for the education loan at least three months before the date of the visa interview, as it takes time to process the education loan.   Conclusion An education loan from the USA is the best possible alternative for students who are unable to procure the required funds or scholarships for their studies in an overseas country. It helps to overcome the financial barrier of funding.  Our experts on the Edufund app can help with loan schemes up to 1 crore both in the USA and India so that you can make an informed choice. Choose from banks and NBFC partners where you do not require collateral for an amount up to INR 75 lakhs. The loan rates are low, and there are no hidden charges for a hassle-free loan approval process. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The demand for education loans for Canada is quite high all over the world, especially amongst Indian students who aspire to pursue their education overseas.  Top-grade universities and colleges in Canada, unique curriculum, numerous options in diploma and degree programs, diverse exposure to an enchanting country and its culture, and excellent career opportunities lead to dynamic student life, which is preferred by the new generation.  There are several financial institutions like banks and NBFCs in India that offer education loans at reasonable rates to study in Canada. Top universities and their fees Canada is an ideal destination for studying abroad because it is home to some of the best universities in the world. The costs of a few of the top universities for an entire course are as follows- University of Ottawa - $31,444 (nearly INR 25 lakhs). McMaster University - $31,770 (nearly INR 25.64 lakhs). University of Winnipeg - $23,695 (nearly INR 18.8 lakhs). University of Manitoba - $22,000 (nearly INR 17.5 lakhs). Dalhousie University - $10,000 (nearly INR 7.9 lakhs). Brandon University - $7,203 (nearly INR 5.7 lakhs Types of education loans Education loan for Canada with collateral – The applicant has to provide collateral in the form of tangible assets (land, flat) and non-tangible (FDs, life insurance) to secure an education loan.  Loan without collateral – The applicant does not have to give any security as collateral, but there should be a co-applicant to minimize the risk.  Study courses covered under an educational loan Diploma course. Undergraduate degree. Doctorate programs. Postgraduate degree. Vocational course. Skill development course. Expenses included in the education loan Tuition fees. Hostel fees. Caution deposit. Traveling expenses. Library, laboratory, and examination fees. Cost of books and uniforms. Cost of laptop if required. Expenses for study tours or project work if required. Top Banks, tenure, rate of interest, and maximum loan amount Eligibility criteria for an Indian student The student should be a citizen of India. They should be 18 years and above (in case the student is shy of 18+ the loan will have to be secured in the parent's name). Must have a good academic record. The intended course should be valid. The admission should be to a recognized university in Canada Documents required for applying for an education loan in Canada Financial institutions need to verify the details provided by the applicant through the following documents- Properly filled-out loan application form. Photo ID proof of the applicant and co-applicant like Voter ID, Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc. Passport-size photo of the applicant and co-applicant. Residence proof like Aadhaar card, electricity bill, etc.  Result of entrance test. Letter of admission. Statement of cost of admission. Marksheet of qualifying exams. GRE/GMAT scores. Income proof of the applicant. Bank statement of the last six months of the applicant and the co-applicant. Property title deed in case of collateral Repayment terms Repayment begins after 6 months or one year once the study course is complete or the loan applicant is hired for a job, whichever comes first. The tenure is pre-decided, and the loan amount has to be paid accordingly.   Tax Benefits Applicants can claim tax benefits under Section 80E on the interest paid on the full amount of the education loan for Canada and not the principal amount. The benefits can be claimed for seven consecutive years starting from the date of repayment.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gTQkdePOWM How to get an education loan in Canada? Visit the official website of the financial institution or conduct a one-on-one interview with the representative to know the details about the education loan for Canada.   Check whether the selected course is recognized by the bank. Figure out how much loan amount you can get, the tenure, and the rate of interest.  Compare the details with other banks. After finalizing, submit the necessary documents. It takes nearly 15 days for the application process to complete. Conclusion  Education loan has become a necessity in recent years as it helps aspiring students with the required funds at the earliest.  The Edufund app ensures 100% transparency and a secured transaction for students interested in getting an education loan for Canada. It has a strategic partnership with financial institutions like Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, MPower Financing, etc., that enables students to get the lowest rates, door-step service, hassle-free process, and a better chance of loan approval. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) are popular in the US market. And leveraged ETFs are less known by everyone. In India, we do not have to leverage ETFs, but these are available in the US market. What is a leveraged ETF? Leveraged ETFs are exchange-traded funds that use financial derivatives and debt to increase the returns of an underlying index like the S&P 500. Leveraged ETF possesses high risk and return attributes. A leveraged ETF tries to boost the daily returns of the index. They basically take the margins/leverage by using debt and financial derivates. How do leveraged ETFs work? Traditional ETFs try to match the returns of the benchmark, but leveraged ETFs try to maximize the returns two to three times rather than just matching the benchmark's performance. Leverage ETFs use borrowed money to invest in financial derivatives such as future and option contracts. For example, an ETF that tracks the S&P 500 index will try to replicate the returns of the benchmark. But leveraged ETF will seek to maximize returns on a 2:1 or 3:1, expressed as 2x or 3x, respectively. Suppose an S&P 500 tracking ETF has generated returns of 2%, then a leverage ETF 2x can provide you 4% returns. And if the S&P 500 tracking ETF has generated negative returns of 3%, then a leverage ETF 2x can provide you 6% negative returns. Are leveraged ETFs expensive? Usually, traditional ETFs have an expense ratio of around 0.45%, but leveraged ETFs have an expense ratio of around 1.00%. The reason for the higher expense ratio is the frequent trading of underlying securities using leverage. A higher expense ratio reduces the returns of a leveraged ETF. Pros and Cons of leveraged ETFs Pros Easily to trade – Like any other ETFs, leverage ETFs are also traded on the exchange in the open market operations, just like stocks. So, it becomes easy to trade in leveraged ETFs. Access to derivatives – Leverage ETFs provide indirect access to financial derivatives, such as future and options contracts, which may not be accessible by everyone or cost high to trade. Potential to provide exceptional returns – Since these ETFs use leverage and invest in equity derivatives, they have the potential to provide exceptional returns to their investors compared to traditional ETFs. Cons Higher expense ratio – Comparatively leveraged ETFs require more management; due to this reason, these ETFs have a higher expense ratio than traditional ETFs. So, these ETFs could cost you more as they are associated with trading in financial derivatives. High risk – Leverage ETFs have high market risk compared to normal ETFs. Suppose the market or underlying security is not moving in one direction. In that case, these ETFs can erode the value of your money over time as they might have taken the opposite position. Poor long-term holdings – Since these ETFs mainly trade in derivatives of underlying securities, so they do not hold any security for a longer period. They only use stocks for a short-term period to generate daily profits. Conclusion Leverage ETFs can provide you with hefty returns, but they can also erode your wealth if the market reacts inversely. Evaluating leveraged ETFs is very crucial before investing. You can choose a normal ETF if your risk appetite is less, or a 2x/3x leveraged ETF if you take very high risk. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

A sound investment strategy is value investing, where investors aim to buy stocks, bonds, real estate, and other assets for less than they are worth. Selecting stocks could be difficult because the market overreacts to good and bad news, so the stock price movements won't reflect the company's long-term perspectives. What is value investing? There are two primary concepts regarding value investing, i.e. undervaluation and overvaluation. When a stock trades at less than its intrinsic value, it is considered an undervalued stock. And on the other hand, when a stock is trading at more than its intrinsic value, it is considered overvalued.  Value investing is simply buying securities at a discounted price. The commodity is for sale because its demand may not be high at that time. You save money by buying at a low price. Stocks, like any other commodity you buy, go through periods of low and high demand. As a result, the value of stocks tends to fluctuate. This does not change the value you get for your money. Price, low or high, is just a mere reflection of demand, nothing more. However, value investing means savvy value investors get the most out of stocks by buying them at low prices. Value investors hold onto them because they are in the process of making long-term profits, and they make a killing when these stocks go up. Technically, buying the securities below their intrinsic value. Additional read: What are goal-based savings? How to calculate Intrinsic value? There are various methods to calculate the intrinsic value of a company. Fundamentally speaking, a company's intrinsic value is calculated by determining the present value of the company's future cash flows. It requires projected future cash flows and rate of return to determine the intrinsic value of future cash flows. Let's see some methods to calculate the Intrinsic Value of a company. 1. Price-to-Book Ratio Price to Book, or P/B ratio, compares a company's stock price to its book value per share. Book value per share of a company is the company's net worth (assets minus liabilities) divided by the number of shares outstanding. In some cases, investors exclude certain intangible assets (e.g. goodwill) from the calculation of the PB ratio. In theory, any value below 1.0 means that the company's stock is selling for less than the company's net worth. Today, some banks are trading below their book value, while some growth companies are trading at multiples of their net worth. 2. Price-to-Earnings Ratio The price-to-earnings, or P/E ratio, compares a company's stock price to its annual earnings. For example, a P/E ratio of 15 suggests that at the company's current earnings, it will take 15 years to break even in the share price. Advantages of Value Investing Sustainable returns: Value investing could provide more than average returns in the long-term if done accurately. And these provide consistent returns over a longer period. Minimized risk: Value stocks have low volatility compared to growth stocks. Low volatility provides better risk-adjusted returns. 3. Value investing with mutual funds Mutual funds offer investors the opportunity to invest in value-driven stocks. Most large funds offer both actively managed and passively managed (i.e. index funds) value funds. For example, the ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund invests in value companies. A simple comparison of this fund can be made with the PGIM India Flexi Cap Fund. Conclusion Evaluating companies on the basis of value buying should not be the only criteria. Value investing is a prudent approach for value investors, and mutual funds offer funds that invest in value-driven companies. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT