Trading vs Investing Which is Better
Explore the key differences between Trading vs Investing Which is Better.
Investing:
- Time Horizon: Investors take a longer-term approach. They hold assets with the goal of achieving steady growth over many years.
- Mindset: Investors think like owners. They focus on the business’s performance rather than short-term stock price fluctuations.
- Risk Tolerance: Investors tend to be risk-averse and are willing to ride out short-term market fluctuations.
- Strategy: They buy and hold, often for retirement or other long-term goals.
- Ownership: Investing involves owning financial assets (e.g., stocks, bonds, real estate).
Pros:
- Long-Term Growth: Investing allows you to benefit from long-term market growth. Over time, well-chosen investments tend to appreciate.
- Diversification: Investors can spread risk by diversifying their portfolio across different asset classes (stocks, bonds, real estate, etc.).
- Passive Income: Some investments (like dividend-paying stocks or rental properties) generate passive income.
- Tax Benefits: Certain investment vehicles offer tax advantages (e.g., retirement accounts).
Cons:
- Volatility: Markets can be volatile, and investment values may fluctuate. Patience is crucial.
- Liquidity: Some investments (e.g., real estate) are less liquid, meaning it may take time to sell them.
- Time Commitment: Researching and managing investments requires time and effort.
- Market Risk: External factors (economic downturns, geopolitical events) impact investment performance.
Trading:
Time Horizon: Traders use short-term strategies to maximize returns daily, monthly, or quarterly.
Mindset: Traders aim for quick profits. They focus on market timing and price movements.
Risk Tolerance: Traders are more risk-tolerant and may not hold positions for long.
Strategy: They actively buy and sell, often speculating on market fluctuations.
Ownership: Trading doesn’t necessarily involve ownership; it’s about speculating on price changes.
Pros:
- Quick Profits: Traders aim for short-term gains, capitalizing on price fluctuations.
- Flexibility: Traders can adapt to changing market conditions and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Liquidity: Trading provides more liquidity; positions can be closed quickly.
- Active Involvement: If you enjoy analyzing charts and market data, trading can be engaging.
Cons:
- High Risk: Trading involves higher risk due to frequent buying and selling.
- Emotional Stress: Rapid market movements can be stressful for traders.
- Transaction Costs: Frequent trades lead to higher transaction fees.
- Market Timing: Timing the market accurately is challenging.
Remember, the choice between trading and investing depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Some people combine both approaches to balance risk and potential returns.
If you’re patient and seek long-term growth, investing may be better. Traders, on the other hand, thrive on short-term opportunities. Remember, both approaches have their merits – choose based on your goals and risk tolerance.
Upstox: Empowering Your Trading Journey!
🚀 Are you ready to take your trading to the next level? Look no further than Upstox! Here’s why you should choose us:
- Zero Brokerage on Delivery Trades: Keep more of your profits with zero brokerage charges on delivery trades. It’s your money – why pay unnecessary fees?
- Lightning-Fast Execution: Don’t miss out on opportunities! Our robust platform ensures lightning-fast order execution, so you’re always ahead of the curve.
- Advanced Charting Tools: Analyze trends, spot patterns, and make informed decisions with our powerful charting tools. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, we’ve got you covered.
- Mobile App Convenience: Trade on the go with our intuitive mobile app. Stay connected to the markets, even when you’re on the move.
- Educational Resources: Learn from the best! Access educational content, webinars, and expert insights to enhance your trading skills.
Join Upstox today and experience trading like never before. 📊💡
Senior Citizen Saving Scheme
Are you or someone you know over the age of 60 and looking for a safe way to save money? The Senior Citizen Saving Scheme (SCSS) might be just what you need. It’s a special savings plan designed by the government of India to help older folks secure their financial future. Let’s break it down into simple terms:
What is SCSS?
The SCSS is like a special bank account for senior citizens. It helps them save money and earn interest on their savings. Here are the main things you need to know about it:
Who Can Join?
If you’re 60 years or older, you can open an SCSS account. Even if you’re between 55 and 60 years old and have retired, you can join under certain conditions.
How Much Can You Save?
You can put in up to ₹15 lakhs in your SCSS account. This means you can save a good amount of money without worrying too much.
What’s the Interest Rate?
The government decides how much interest you’ll get on your savings. Usually, it’s higher than what regular bank accounts offer, so it’s a good deal for seniors.
Why Choose SCSS?
Steady Income: It gives you regular interest payments, so you always have some money coming in.
Safe and Secure: Since it’s backed by the government, your money is safe. You don’t have to worry about losing it.
Tax Benefits: You can save on taxes, which means more money stays in your pocket.
Easy Access: You can open an SCSS account at a post office or a bank near you. It’s simple and convenient.
The Senior Citizen Saving Scheme is a great way for older adults to save money and earn some extra income. It’s safe, easy to access, and comes with tax benefits. So if you’re looking for a reliable way to grow your savings during retirement, consider giving SCSS a try.
How to get a personal loan
To get a personal loan, start by assessing your financial needs and determining the amount required along with the purpose. Once you’ve evaluated your needs, it’s essential to check your credit score through various credit reporting agencies. Your credit score plays a significant role in determining your creditworthiness and the terms of the loan. Higher scores often result in better loan terms, such as lower interest rates.
Research different lenders, including banks, credit unions, online lenders, and peer-to-peer lending platforms. Compare factors such as interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and eligibility requirements to find the best option suited to your needs. After selecting potential lenders, gather necessary documents like proof of identity, income, and residence.
Submit your loan application to the chosen lender. This can typically be done online, over the phone, or in person, depending on the lender’s preferences and capabilities. Once you’ve applied, review the loan offers provided by the lender carefully. Pay close attention to the interest rates, repayment terms, and any associated fees.
Upon choosing a suitable loan offer, accept the terms and conditions outlined in the loan agreement. This may involve signing relevant documents and agreements. After accepting the loan, the lender will disburse the funds directly into your bank account. The timing of this disbursement can vary depending on the lender and the specifics of the loan agreement.
Make sure to adhere to the repayment schedule outlined in your loan agreement. Typically, this involves making monthly payments until the loan is fully repaid. It’s crucial to borrow only what you need and can afford to repay to avoid defaulting on the loan, which can have serious consequences for your credit score and financial well-being. If you have any doubts or questions about the loan process, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from the lender.
Chennai Super Kings – Dominance in Yellow
The Chennai Super Kings also referred to as CSK, have unquestionably engraved their name in the history of Indian Premier League (IPL) by being one among most successful and stable franchises. 2008 was the year when CSK, led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni their captain emerged as a dominant team on cricket field but also attracted hordes of fans known as “Yellow Army”. Here we explore this phenomenon in-depth to understand how they have become one of IPL’s more than just successful teams.
Journey so far
CSK’s path in the IPL is nothing short of spectacular, given by stable results and a talent for making it into playoffs. Let’s take a closer look at their season-wise performance:
| Year | Position | Played | Won | Lost | Tied | No Result | Win Percentage |
| 2008 | Runners-up | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 56.25% |
| 2009 | Semi-finalist | 14 | 8 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 61.54% |
| 2010 | Champions | 16 | 9 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 56.25% |
| 2011 | Champions | 16 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 68.75% |
| 2012 | Runners-up | 19 | 10 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 52.63% |
| 2013 | Runners-up | 18 | 12 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 66.67% |
| 2014 | 3rd place | 16 | 10 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 62.50% |
| 2015 | Suspended | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2016 | Suspended | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2017 | Did not play | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2018 | Champions | 16 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 68.75% |
| 2019 | Runners-up | 17 | 10 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 58.82% |
| 2020 | 7th place | 14 | 6 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 42.86% |
| 2021 | Champions | 17 | 11 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 64.71% |
| 2022 | 7th place | 14 | 5 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 35.71% |
| 2023 | Champions | 17 | 12 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 70.59% |
Chennai Super Kings was established in 2008. The team is owned by India Cements. MS Dhoni was the captain of the team while Stephen Fleming was the coach of this squad. CS has won 5 IPL titles which is a joint highest with Mumbai Indians. They have also clinched the Champions League Twenty20 twice. CSK has appeared in the playoffs 12 times out of the 14 seasons it played which is more than any other team in IPL. CSK’s regular appearances in the playoffs shows that they can perform under pressure and remain competitive throughout the tournament.
Championships and Achievements: 3 IPL championships are the high points of CSK’s journey. Let’s delve into the key milestones that define their legacy:
– Back-to-Back Titles: 2010 and 2011 were the two years when CSK achieved a historic position by becoming the first team to win IPL titles successively. This was the peak of their dominance in the league.
– Triumphant Comeback: 2018 was a year of sensational comeback when CSK returned after two years suspension and managed to win the championship with MS Dhoni leading calmly.
– Consistent Finals Appearances: CSK found its way to the IPL finals seven out of ten seasons from 2010-2019, indicating unparallel consistency and outstanding performance during significant encounters.
Factors contributing to their victory:
MS Dhoni’s inspirational leadership, strategic team compositions and smart auction strategies have been central factors for the continued CSK success. Let’s have a look at these aspects that have shaped CSK’s legacy:
- Captain Cool- MS Dhoni- Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly called “Captain Cool,” has been the heart and backbone of CSK so far. Dhoni has been one such legendary figure in IPL history due to his calmness, tactical genius and the fact that he can take over a team through high- pressure situations.
- Notable Players in CSK’s Journey- CSK is an abode for cricketing legends and global superstars. Players like Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Shane Watson and Dwayne Bravo have played significant roles in the team’s victories coming through with both bat and ball.
- Loyal Fan Base- The Yellow Army- CSK’s success is reflected in its passionate and dedicated fans who are known as the “Yellow Army.” The yellow jerseys that fill up the stands of M.A Chidambaram Stadium reflect both confidence and euphoria on Team Yellow when they play matches at the home ground.
- Playing to their strength- Very early on in the league, they had recognized their strength- “Spin to Win”. Muttiah Muralitharan back in 2008 and Maheesh Theekshana in 2023, it has remained their strong point.
- Supportive Team Culture- Showing faith in players has worked out great for the success of the team. Be it giving a chance to an out of form player like Shane Watson in 2019, or Robin Uthappa in 2021 and Ajinkya Rahane in 2023. Also, in the dressing room, each player is treated equally, whether they played well on the field or not.
- Team XI- Another secret is that they have hardly ever changed the combination of their players during the season. They have stuck with the same set unless there are excruciating conditions.
- The Management- Since 2009, there is no change in the coach or the captain. Stephen Fleming has held the position of coaching the team and MS Dhoni has remained the captain (except for some 10 matches in 2022) throughout.
- Team Selection- CSK seldom opts for cricket superstars during auctions, with Dhoni and Stokes being potential exceptions. The majority, including Ashwin, Raina, and Jadeja, have honed their skills while representing CSK. The team appears to prioritize coachability and a seamless fit into the team culture over star power, recognizing that performance typically ensues. When they do choose experienced players, CSK values the maturity of character they bring to the table. This experience is seen as a valuable asset, allowing the team to navigate challenges with a composed approach, fully aware that success in T20 cricket often boils down to being slightly superior in various aspects.
There’s no sugarcoating it. Are there batting teams superior to CSK? Undoubtedly! Are there bowling teams better than CSK? Absolutely. In terms of fielding, they might be quite competent, but not overwhelmingly so. However, collectively, they manage to construct sequences of play that provide them with slight advantages during the match. It’s an inexplicable knack for cobbling together just enough on any given day.
Understanding how to secure victories holds more significance than expertise in batting, bowling, or fielding, simply because everyone can undergo training in these areas! As for what defines that winning habit of CSK, I can’t quite articulate it. There’s an uncanny quality about champions, wherein even when they aren’t performing at their peak, they possess the ability to secure a victory.
A Guide to Optimum Tax-Saving Plans in India
Tax planning is a crucial part of personal finance allowing individual to optimize your financial well-being. India offers vast tax saving options to choose from according to one’s financial goals and needs. In this comprehensive, guide we will explore in depth various tax saving plans in India, along with their features and benefits.
In India, taxes are a significant component of an individual’s financial obligation, strategic planning is a must for those looking for tax savings. The Income Tax Act provides for various exemptions and deductions to help reduce an individual’s tax liability.
Tax saving plans in India:
- Equity-Linked Saving Scheme (ELSS):
ELSS is a tax-saving mutual fund that majorly invests in equities. About 80% of the corpus is invested in equity or equity-related instruments. The funds are diversely invested across various market capitalizations, sectors, and themes.
| Tax Benefit | Lock-in Period | Other Benefit |
| ELSS investments qualify for a deduction in 80C under the Income Tax Act. The act allows individuals to claim deductions up to INR 1.5 lakh every year. | It has a three-year lock-in period, which is much less compared to other tax-saving instrument. | It has the potential for higher returns compared to other traditional tax-saving. |
- Public Provident Fund (PPF):
PPF is a government backed up Tax saving scheme, focusing on creating long-term wealth. The amount can be deposited monthly and interest is compounded.
| Tax Benefit | Lock-in Period | Other Benefit |
| PPF contribution qualifies for deduction under 80C of the Income Tax Act, making it attractive for those wanting to save tax. The maximum deduction that can be claimed is INR 1.5 lakh per year. | The tenure of PPF is fifteen years, providing scope for wealth creation and tax saving. | PPF rates are decided by the government. The interest rate is 7.1%. As this fund is mandated by the government it is of low risk. |
- National Pension Scheme (NPS):
NPS is a voluntary, long-term retirement saving scheme promoting systematic savings. The pension scheme is open to employees in all sectors like private, public, and unorganized sectors, but it is not available to employees in the armed forces.
People can invest in the pension account at intervals throughout the course of their employment. When they retire, they can withdraw a certain percentage from the corpus, and the remaining amount will be received monthly.
| Tax Benefit | Lock-in Period | Other Benefit |
| Contributions to NPS are eligible for deduction under sections 80CCD (1) and 80CCD (1B) of the Income Tax Act. | NPS can only be withdrawn after retirement that is after turning 60 years old. | The individual receives tax benefits as well as retirement benefits. The individual enjoys flexibility in investing in equity, debt, fixed deposits, and government funds |
- Tax Saving Fixed deposit:
This deposit is popular amongst investors with low-risk appetite. The funds are deposited in banks therefore they are regulated and monitored by RBI.
| Tax Benefit | Lock-in Period | Other Benefit |
| The amount deposited in fixed deposits is exempted up to INR 1.5 lakh every year. It is exempted under section 80C of the Income Tax Act. | The tenure of tax-saving fixed deposits is five years | An interest ranging from 5.5% -7.75% is earned. However, the interest earned is not tax free. |
- Life Insurance:
Life insurance policy tax benefit promotes financial security and savings.
| Tax Benefit | Lock-in Period | Other Benefit |
| The life insurance premium is exempted under section 80C up to INR 1.5 lakh. The amount received on maturity or death of any family member from life insurance is exempted under section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act. | Time duration of life insurance is between 5-40 years. | In case of the unexpected death of an earning family member, the dependent members receive the compensation of life insurance. |
- Health Insurance:
Health insurance helps at the time of sudden illness or accident, taking care of hospital bills and medical costs. In India, people usually depend on their savings at the time of medical emergency. Therefore to encourage people to have health insurance government has provided tax benefits.
Only Individuals and HUF are eligible for this deduction.
| Tax Benefit | Other Benefit |
| Health insurance premiums up to INR 25,000 are exempted if the health insurance is for self, spouse, or dependent children. Insurance premiums up to INR 50,000 are exempted if family or parents are senior citizens. This exemption is claimed under section 80D of the Income Tax Act. | In case of unexpected illness or accident, one does not need to worry about paying medical bills, as they are mostly covered in health insurance. |
- Employee Provident Fund (EPF):
EPF is made mandatory by the government for all salaried employees. Employer and employee both have to contribute the same amount in EPF. The contribution is a minimum of INR 1,800 or 12% of the basic salary + dearness allowance.
| Tax Benefit | Other Benefit |
| Employee’s Contribution to EPF is allowed as a deduction up to INR 1.5 Lakh per year under section 80C of the Income Tax Act. | At the time of retirement, the employee will receive the lump-sum amount of his contribution, his employer’s contribution along with interest. |
- Senior Citizen Saving Scheme (SCSS):
SCSS is a post office saving scheme available to only senior citizens. Senior citizens are above 60 years old. This scheme provides for a regular stream of income in addition to tax benefits.
| Tax Benefit | Lock-in Period | Other Benefit |
| SCSS is allowed as a deduction up to INR 1.5 Lakh per year under section 80C of the Income Tax Act. | The lock-in period of SCSS is 5 years | The individual earns an interest of 8.2% p.a. Interest is received quarterly. This scheme is government-backed, making it less risky. |
The realms of tax saving plans in India are quite complex, one should always keep in mind his financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Diversification in tax saving schemes is the key to a well-rounded and balanced portfolio. It is vital to keep in mind that tax laws and investment instruments may change from time to time. It is advisable for individuals to consult a professional for personalized advice based on their circumstances. The tax saving plans in India should be strategically leveraged so that the individual can optimize his tax liability while providing future financial security.
Ultimate Guide to Visa – UAE Visa Process Guide
Dubai is the hotspot for tourists from around the world. Your journey to this glittering city ensures a spectacle of the breathtaking skylines, luxurious shopping malls and cultural richness. Before embarking on your journey to this enchanting city in the UAE, it’s essential to understand the process of obtaining a travel visa.
In this guide, we’ll get into the intricacies of securing a visa for Dubai. It also includes information on charges applicable, travel requirements and other crucial details to make your travel prep seamless.
Some Common Types of Visas
Requirements for availing a Tourist Visa to Dubai:
- Passport– A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Passport-sized photographs– meeting the specific requirements.
- Flight Itinerary– A confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Proof of accommodation– Such as hotel bookings, etc.
- Proof of funds– Bank statements and other financial documents proving the ability to support your stay in Dubai.
- Travel Insurance– Covering medical expenses and other emergencies.
- Visa application form– With complete payment of the applicable visa fee.
Check-out the latest requirements here.
How to apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa?
Let’s go through the Visa Application Process–
- Online Application: Click here to Apply Online
You can visit the official website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) on your own or take the help from an accredited visa facilitation service provider.
- Form Submission:
Keeping a note of the required documents to be submitted, fill in the visa application form and submit it electronically.
- Payment:
Alongside submitting your application form, you’ll need to make payment of the appropriate visa fee through the accepted payment methods including debit/ credit cards.
- Application Tracking:
Upon submission, you’ll get to track the status of your application through the online tracking system.
- Collecting the Visa:
On approval of the visa, you can get hold of the visa electronically or in person, depending on the type you chose to apply for.
Visa Fee
There are two types of fees to be paid to the UAE government- Service Fee and E-Visa Government & Admin Fee.
SERVICE FEE
| E-Visa/ No. of People | Normal fee (per person) | Urgent fee (per person) | Super Urgent fee (per person) |
| 1 person | INR 6,572 | Add INR 6,572 | Add INR 8,236 |
| 2 people | INR 6,405 | ||
| 3-5 people | INR 6,239 | ||
| 6-9 people | INR 5,989 | ||
| 10 people or more | INR 5,407 |
E-Visa Government and Admin Fee
| Type of Tourist Visa | Fee |
| 30 days Single Entry | INR 12,479 |
| 60 days Single Entry | INR 16,638 |
| 90 days Single Entry | INR 37,436 |
The UAE Visa for travelers can be extended by payment of INR 33,193.
For the latest visa fee, check-out the official website here.
Some points to keep in mind before applying for the Dubai Tourist Visa are as follows:
- The processing time for the normal tourist visa is about 3 to 4 days and the same for the express one is 48 hours or sometimes within 36 hours.
- You’ll need to enter Dubai/ UAE within 59 days from the date of the approval of Visa.
- In case of a single-entry visa, you’ll be allowed to enter and stay in the country for a maximum of 30 or 90 days from the first date of entry, depending on your visa.
- In case of a multiple-entry visa, you can have multiple entry and stay for a maximum of 30 days or 90 days from the date of first entry, depending on your visa.
- Any changes to the Visa already applied and paid for, shall be considered as a new application and would attract additional charges.
- On the expiry of your visa, for a longer stay, you’ll be charged approximately INR 6,800 per day (AED 300), depending on the existing exchange rate.
- In case your visa is rejected by the UAE embassy, the visa fee that you paid shall not be refunded in any circumstances.
Read on for some interesting facts about UAE:
- The UAE consists of 7 Emirates, named Umm al-Quwain, Fujairah, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Abu Dhabi. Each of the Emirates is governed by a distinct royal family.
- Burj Khalifa situated in Dubai is the world’s tallest structure.
- The Capital Gate in Abu Dhabiis the world’s most inclined building.
- The beachfront hotel- Burj al Arab is the epitome of luxury and is set apart by its unique sail-like structure.
- Although, the official language of the UAE is Arabic, English is widely used for the convenience of most international travelers.
- The total population of the UAE is around 9.8 million. 80% of them are expats or foreigners.
The UAE has a multicultural demographic adds to its diverse and cosmopolitan atmosphere, attracting tourists from around the world. Some of the noteworthy tourist attractions in Dubai include The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, Dubai Fountain, Ski Dubai, The Dubai Frame, Ski Dubai, and Jumeirah Mosque, among many others.
Dubai smoothly blends the modern marvels and cultural richness. From the seamless blend of luxury with iconic landmarks and breathtaking beaches to mesmerizing desert landscapes, Dubai is a captivating destination for tourists of all ages seeking diverse and memorable experiences. Before embarking on this ride, acquaint yourself with the visa requirements and procedures to facilitate a hassle-free travel experience to Dubai.