In this episode, Monika discusses the financial steps to take after an unexpected job loss. She provides practical advice on negotiating severance packages, extending medical benefits, consolidating finances, and cutting discretionary expenses. Monika also emphasises the importance of having a financial plan ready, highlights resources for unemployment support, and offers tips to stay mentally resilient while seeking new employment. Tune in to learn how to navigate the financial challenges of job loss and prepare for a more secure future.

Monika also helps you navigate through building an early retirement corpus for short service retirees in the air force, how to include your partner in financial planning, and the right time to surrender your ULIPs.

This week, Monika delves into the best way of utilising your raise. She discusses the importance of understanding inflation-adjusted raises, evaluating your performance relative to company averages, and considering strategic job changes for better compensation. Tune in for practical advice on how to respond to your raise and make informed decisions about your career and financial future.

Monika also answers your questions about the pros and cons of purchasing medical insurance for retirement if in a government job, the optimal duration for your loans, whether NRIs should consider debt funds despite recent tax changes, and the reliability of new fund offers.

Today, Monika dives into the best strategies for handling windfall gains. Whether it's a bonus, tax refund, or inheritance, Monika explains how to balance spending, debt repayment, and investing to maximise your financial well-being and avoid common pitfalls. Discover how to make thoughtful decisions that enhance your financial future while enjoying the present.
Monika also addresses how to rebuild an emergency fund after relocating, the strategies for early retirement and sustaining expenses long-term, and the importance of evaluating mutual fund schemes over individual fund managers.

In today’s episode, Monika explores the crucial financial steps to take before transitioning from a secure job to launching your own start-up. She breaks down how to estimate start-up costs, secure initial funding, and budget for personal living expenses during the early, income-less years of your venture. She also discusses the importance of having medical and vehicle insurance, maintaining an emergency fund, and having a solid backup plan in case your business doesn't take off. Join us as Monika dives into the financial groundwork essential for turning your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
Monika also answers your questions about strategies for restructuring your mutual fund portfolio without incurring high capital gains taxes, how to navigate conflicting financial advice, and the best approaches to balancing debt and equity investments for long-term financial goals.

We’re back with a new episode of practical financial advice to help you make informed decisions about your money!
In this episode of Let’s Talk Money, Monika explores how to build financial security for your child's present and future. Learn the importance of putting in place your own life cover and your medical insurance, as well as the necessity of drafting a Will. She also discusses smart investment strategies, such as starting an index fund and a monthly SIP for higher education. Tune in for essential advice on securing your family's financial well-being.
Monika also tackles your questions about flexible travel investment options, the flow between income and investment accounts, and achieving long-term financial goals amid potential tax changes.

On Let’s Talk Money, we’re going back to the past to bring back some of our favourite bits of the podcast… just in case you missed it.
This week, Monika unravels the backstory of the National Pension System (NPS), tracing its origins from the OASIS Project committee to its implementation by the Indian government. Learn how the NPS emerged as a defined contribution, low-cost scheme to address old age security concerns, particularly for those outside the organised sector. Discover the intricacies of the NPS, its investment options, tax benefits, and considerations for individuals seeking long-term financial stability. Tune in for practical advice on navigating the complexities of retirement planning with the NPS.
Monika also answers your questions about money back and endowment policies, and whether you should opt for a regular plan or a direct plan while investing!

On Let’s Talk Money, we’re going back to the past to bring back some of our favourite bits of the podcast… just in case you missed it.
Today, Monika unravels the crucial distinction between saving and investing, emphasising why they should never be used interchangeably. From understanding the basics of savings to exploring the potential of investments across various asset classes, she delves into the transformative power of transitioning from savers to intelligent investors.
Also, she answers your pressing questions about how much is enough for a retirement kitty if you have kids, how to get out of a crippling debt cycle, and whether you should opt for an education loan or let your parents cover your expenses.

On Let’s Talk Money, we’re going back to the past to bring back some of our favourite bits of the podcast… just in case you missed it.
This week, Monika dives into the age-old debate: Should you rent or buy a home? Exploring generational shifts in home ownership patterns and debunking conventional wisdom, she navigates through the complexities of EMIs, down payments, and fixed versus floating interest rates.
Monika also answers your questions about what to consider when you’re opening your first bank account, how to decide how much you need in your retirement corpus and build towards it, and investing in India as an NRI.

On Let’s Talk Money, we’re going back to the past to bring back some of our favourite bits of the podcast… just in case you missed it.
Today we’re talking about medical insurance and the pitfalls of purchasing policies without understanding the fine print. We have a checklist that will help you find the right medical insurance plan - helping you understand how to balance premium costs with comprehensive benefits, navigating co-pay clauses and pre-existing disease coverage. Tune in as we demystify the intricacies of medical insurance and help safeguard your financial well-being in times of medical emergencies.
Monika also answers questions about how to build financial fitness as a gig worker, how to manage joint expenses with your partner when you move in together, and how to plan your expenses when raising children.On Let’s Talk Money, we’re going back to the past to bring back some of our favourite bits of the podcast… just in case you missed it.
Today we’re talking about medical insurance and the pitfalls of purchasing policies without understanding the fine print. We have a checklist that will help you find the right medical insurance plan - helping you understand how to balance premium costs with comprehensive benefits, navigating co-pay clauses and pre-existing disease coverage. Tune in as we demystify the intricacies of medical insurance and help safeguard your financial well-being in times of medical emergencies.
Monika also answers questions about how to build financial fitness as a gig worker, how to manage joint expenses with your partner when you move in together, and how to plan your expenses when raising children.

In this episode of Let's Talk Money, host Monika Halan dives deep into the pitfalls of bundled life insurance products, urging listeners to steer clear of these financial traps. She reveals how traditional plans like money back and endowment policies prey on investors with deceptive sales tactics, hefty surrender costs, and paltry returns. With a critical eye on regulatory shortcomings, Monika empowers listeners to protect their financial interests by steering clear of bundled insurance and opting for more transparent investment options.

From optimising investments for multiple goals to opening a PPF account for a child, no topic is left untouched. Monika also answers your questions about strategies for lump sum investments versus SIPs, along with considerations for emergency fund placement. Join us for invaluable insights into navigating the complexities of personal finance.

As tax-filing season approaches, Monika breaks down the basics of capital gains tax. She unravels the distinction between income and profits, shedding light on how different asset classes are taxed. From real estate to stocks, learn about the holding periods that determine whether your gains are classified as short or long term, and discover the varying tax rates associated with each. Monika also dives into the concept of indexation, demystifying how it can help mitigate tax liabilities by accounting for inflation over time. Plus, find out what options are available if you incur losses, including set-offs and carrying losses forward to future years.

For the disciplined investor seeking to refine their portfolio, Monika shares strategies for optimizing asset allocation and diversification. Monika also provides a roadmap for breaking free from the shackles of debt. From seasoned investors refining their strategies to individuals grappling with debt challenges, this episode offers practical guidance and expert insights to help listeners overcome financial obstacles and build a secure financial future.

Join Monika Halan on this insightful episode of Let's Talk Money as she delves into the world of equity investment. From understanding the fundamentals of equity ownership to exploring the dynamics of stock markets, Monika breaks down complex concepts into digestible insights. Uncover why equity is more than just a financial asset, and how it acts as a gateway to building real wealth and financial independence.

From young professionals starting their careers with queries about investing their surplus income to individuals in their 40s looking to secure their and their children's future, Monika provides practical advice tailored to each situation. Tune in to gain insights into building a solid financial foundation and navigating the complexities of personal finance with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of Let's Talk Money, Monika unpacks the intricacies of Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs). From understanding their purpose in reducing gold imports to exploring tax benefits and investment strategies, Monika provides insights into this alternative to holding physical gold. Discover why SGBs offer a convenient and lucrative option for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and secure their financial future. Tune in to learn how SGBs can transform your approach to investing in gold!

Monika also addresses concerns ranging from investment strategies to home loan dilemmas. She provides insightful advice on evaluating portfolio performance, making prudent choices between home loans and SIPs, and navigating complex investment strategies like portfolio hedging and macroeconomic investing.

In this episode, we uncover how the Risk-o-Meter plays a crucial role in measuring and understanding the risk associated with different mutual fund schemes. Monika breaks down the evolution of the Risk-o-Meter, starting from its inception in 2013 to the recent changes mandated by SEBI. We explore the flaws of the previous version, which failed to accurately depict the varying risk attributes within asset classes. Learn how investors and advisors can leverage this tool to make more informed decisions, especially in the realm of debt funds where portfolio quality can fluctuate significantly over time.

We dissect the intricacies of mutual fund investments in this episode. We explore the debate between small-cap index funds and actively managed funds, shedding light on factors such as cost, returns, and portfolio performance. Delve into the differences between regular and direct mutual fund plans, uncovering the impact of cost differentials on long-term returns. We also unravel the concept of systematic withdrawal plans (SWP), discussing their suitability for different life stages.

In this episode of Let's Talk Money, Monika dives deep into the asset class called debt and unpacks the nuances of debt as an investment option. She explains how debt instruments function, from fixed deposits to government bonds, emphasising the correlation between risk and return. She also discusses the role of debt products in providing stability to investment portfolios, contrasting their characteristics with more volatile equity investments and also touches upon the tax implications of debt products.

Join Monika as she addresses common questions about the Public Provident Fund (PPF). From evaluating PPF as a long-term core of your retirement portfolio, she demystifies the PPF and empowers you to make informed investment decisions. Whether you're contemplating surrendering existing endowment policies for a PPF account or considering opening one later in life, Monika provides practical guidance on maximising the benefits of PPF for long-term financial planning.

Join Monika on Let's Talk Money as she demystifies market capitalisation (market cap) and its significance in investments. Learn how to categorise stocks into large, mid, and small caps, and discover the ideal portfolio mix for long-term investors. Tune in for a quick dive into the essentials of understanding and using market capitalisation to build your portfolios.

In this episode, Monika dives into the intricacies of financial planning in your forties. From optimising debt investments to strategising during different interest rate cycles, she offers expert advice tailored to each listener's unique situation. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for securing your financial future with confidence.

Join Monika on this episode of Let's Talk Money as she demystifies real estate investment trusts (REITs). Gain a deep understanding of how REITs function and the regulatory landscape they operate within. Explore the potential returns for investors, the various types of properties involved, and who should consider adding REITs to their investment portfolio. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the world of finance, don't miss out on this insightful discussion about this intriguing investment avenue.

Also, to celebrate women this Women’s Day, Monika addresses the financial concerns of four remarkable women. Whether you're a single mother seeking advice on securing your child's future, or bridging the financial generation gap with your parents, Monika provides guidance tailored to each woman's unique situation, offering practical solutions and empowering them to navigate their financial journeys with confidence. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration for managing your finances effectively.

In this episode, Monika dives into the intricacies of index investing, unravelling the mystery behind the index number. She breaks down the fundamentals of index numbers for the Sensex and Nifty 50, drawing parallels with the familiar inflation index. Uncover the essence of these indices, understanding their composition, dynamics, and significance in the world of finance. Learn how to use index investing as a low-cost and efficient strategy to secure your financial future.

Join Monika as she navigates the intricacies of retirement planning for individuals at various stages of life. Discover actionable strategies tailored for every milestone, from planning at age 50 to optimising investments post-retirement. Learn how to leverage financial instruments effectively to secure your financial future with confidence.

Today, Monika delves into the intricacies of the National Pension Scheme (NPS). Discover the backstory behind its inception and learn about its numerous benefits as a retirement planning tool. Monika explains how pensions can now be targeted with a flexibility of investment choices, and why NPS is gaining popularity as a low-cost and efficient option for securing your financial future.

Learn how to kickstart your investment journey in India as an NRI, decipher the complexities of insurance structuring for maximum benefits, and navigate the financial landscape of relocating back to India after years abroad. Tune in as Monika addresses pressing financial queries from Indians around the globe.

This week, Monika dives into the power of compound interest. Learn how simple investments can yield extraordinary returns over time, and discover the dual nature of compound interest both as a wealth-building tool and a cautionary tale for managing debt wisely.

From weighing the pros and cons of taking educational loans to early aspirations of earning and building towards a secure financial future, Monika takes on your questions about navigating the complex world of finances. Tune in as she offers her expert guidance, discussing the importance of financial planning, debt management, and smart investment strategies.

Join us this week as Monika helps you understand the basic framework of personal income tax. From the different heads under which we as individuals pay taxes directly to the government, to the difference between gross income and taxable income, she demystifies it all. She also explores how taxation can influence our behaviour.

She also takes on your questions about trying to cope with debt. Whether it’s juggling home loans, a bad credit score, or the importance of an emergency fund, Monika addresses your financial concerns and guides you towards a life that is debt free as soon as possible.

In the last episode of the season, Monika shares insights on recommending trustworthy planners and navigating the complexities of financial intermediaries. She also breaks down the distinction between mutual fund distributors and registered investment advisors to help you make an informed decision about who’d be a better fit for you.

Monika also takes on your questions about planning for goal-oriented investments and optimising existing resources in a tax-efficient manner. She revisits the formulae for figuring out how much you need to save for your retirement corpus and she delves into the aspects of mutual fund redemption and explains how to use a laddering approach when planning for retirement.

Budgets are an important part of our country as they define the flows of money from and into the economy. As we gear up for Budget 2024, Monika dives into the intricacies of this annual fiscal exercise. In this special episode, she breaks down the union budget, drawing parallels between government and household budgets. Monika sheds light on deficits, their implications, and why not all deficits are created equal.

Find out how government spending shapes the economy and where your tax money goes. Uncover the hidden stories within the budget, from off-budget items to the larger narrative it weaves about India's economic direction, along with the policy signals embedded in the budget speech.

In this episode, Monika highlights the importance of shifting from the mindset of simply saving to intelligent investing. Recognize the need for intentional savings and how they can evolve into smart investments. Find out about the potential gains of investing across diverse asset classes, and how to make your money work hard for you.

Monika also tackles pertinent questions about crafting the perfect mix of investments through your own asset allocation. She also underlines the unique dynamics of the Indian real estate market vs the Indian stock market, and explains how your choice of products will depend on how fast you want to grow your money and how much risk you are prepared to take. Tune into an empowering lesson towards unlocking wealth through informed financial choices.

As the budget season approaches, Monika sheds light on the fiscal deficit, a critical number in the annual budget. Explore how the deficit impacts your life, how the government finances it, and why it matters where the borrowed money is spent. Uncover the intricacies of deficit financing, borrowing, and the ripple effects on inflation and private sector growth. Discover the government's spending priorities and the balancing act to prevent runaway inflation.

Monika also answers your questions about the nuances of mutual fund strategies. She discusses passive vs. active funds, crafting the perfect fund mix, and the pitfalls of an overflowing portfolio. Monika navigates these queries, offering guidance for long-term investors, DIY enthusiasts, and those juggling numerous funds.

In Episode 08, Monika breaks down the factors that influence currency strength. Delve into the complex world of currency markets, and discover why a strong currency isn't preferred by exporters. From inflation to capital flows, Monika explains what causes the rupee’s depreciation and offers insight into the economic forces shaping our global transactions.

Monika also takes on your questions about planning for your retirement! Are your twenties too early to be planning? How should you begin to calculate how much you’ll need? How do your capital investments factor in? Tune into this episode to get answers to all your woes and worries about retirement planning.

Welcome to a special episode as we ring in the new year with Swarup Mohanty, Vice Chairman of the board of Mirae Asset Management, a South Korean-owned fund house. Monika asks Swarup questions that address the anticipation and expectation of what the New Year will bring, in the face of global geopolitical challenges as well as uncertainties closer to home.

Monika asks Swarup to share insights on navigating the VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) world, the impact of US Fed rates, and potential economic headwinds. They talk about India's growth story, inflation, market trends, and Swarup's personal investment style. Tune in for your guide to a prosperous 2024!

Today, Monika takes on cryptocurrencies, as she delves into how banks worldwide view it, and what this token really represents. She also breaks down the intricacies of the value of the crypto coin, and the factors that contribute to its volatile rise and fall.

Monika also takes on your questions about the different kinds of life insurance policies out there and which one might work best for you. Tune in as she simplifies insurance policies, so you're equipped to make informed decisions about your financial future.

This Friday, Monika unravels the intricacies of mutual funds. Will they lead to a short term gain or is this a long marathon? Tune in as Monika explains how to navigate this vehicle to invest in securities like stocks and bonds, how to create a diverse portfolio of funds, and picking the right scheme to manage your money.

Monika also tackles pertinent questions from listeners about managing your finances with the decision to have kids: covering the costs of IVF and egg freezing, how to plan for expenses involved in raising children, and the importance of fostering financial intelligence from a young age.

In today’s episode, Monika takes up how to decide on the best medical insurance for yourself and your family, and takes up your financial confusions about personal debt. She breaks down the essential factors to consider while selecting medical insurance, from avoiding common pitfalls to ensuring you have the coverage you need.

Whether you're dealing with a daunting debt trap, considering taking out a loan without falling into a financial pitfall, or facing distressing situations due to loans from apps, Monika's practical advice will guide you toward financial stability.

Today, we’re deep diving into the timeless debate of rent vs buy. Monika sheds light on essential factors that should influence your decision: from the sustainability of high EMIs to the different kinds of home loans out there, she’s got you covered!

Plug in your headphones in as Monika Halan equips you with the tools to master your money and takes on your questions about finding your way around fluctuating income, navigating past blunders, and running a small business with your eye to the future.

This episode is all about relationships, where we get into the nitty gritties of how the stock market relates to the economy, as well as how money seeps into your interpersonal relationships.

Tune in as she answers your questions about how to navigate conversations about money with your partner, contemplating joint accounts, and how to contribute to household finances!

In our very first episode, Monika delves into the latest financial news, unpacking the ups and downs of the stock markets and telling you how to find the steady path to long-term returns.

Monika also answers pressing questions from opening your first bank account to navigating the world of credit cards and what to do with your very first salary.

You’ve worked hard for Money, now make it work for you

EP-67 with Monika Halan premiered on Sunday at 5 PM IST

Let's Talk Mutual Funds with Monika Halan

Gautam Baid speaks to Monika Halan

Let's Talk Mutual Funds with Monika Halan

Gautam Baid speaks to Monika Halan

This week on #PaisaVaisa, Anupam Gupta is joined by Monika Halan, Writer, Author and Speaker.

How to make your money work hard for you.
Monika Halan talks about her new book Let's Talk Money.

Monika Halan on Money Mantras, Biggest Financial Regrets, and Handling Life’s Real Wealth

How to make your money work hard for you. Monika Halan talks about her new book Let's Talk Money on BQPrime

Monika Halan decodes Budget 2023

Kavita Thapliyal talks to Monika Halan on financial planning