Absolutely! Right now, sectors like FMCG and retail aren’t doing well, but that might actually provide a good opportunity for long-term gains. As prices stabilize and people start spending more — especially with incomes rising and rural areas bouncing back — these safer sectors could attract the attention of investors again, particularly when the focus shifts away from just high-growth trends.

The IRDAI is simplifying health categories and ensuring cashless claims at all hospitals, which gives me hope for positive changes. It’s a step in the right direction toward achieving the goal of "Insurance for All by 2047." When things become easier and more accessible, more people are likely to get coverage. Overall, I believe these initiatives can contribute to reaching that aim.

The recent Madras High Court’s classification of cryptocurrency as “property” clarifies ownership rights and legal standing in India. This recognition strengthens investor protection, fosters regulatory clarity, and builds confidence in digital assets.

This decision will ultimately encourage broader participation and support the growth and maturity of India’s evolving cryptocurrency ecosystem.

If you're planning to engage in high-risk activities or have any pre-existing conditions, make sure to thoroughly review your travel insurance policy.

It's essential to understand what's covered. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider with any questions you may have.

Additionally, consider obtaining specialized adventure insurance or a more comprehensive policy that covers the specific activities you're interested in. Just ensure that everything you've planned is clearly included!

We are all witnessing a wonderful shift; Indian investors are now opting for expert-managed Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). They are stepping away from traditional options such as gold and fixed deposits, which are no longer viewed as sufficient in the current economic landscape.

@Faraz said in What is Pi Coin?:

What specific regulatory or technical obstacles are preventing its official launch in the Indian market, and how does this unofficial trading activity impact the legal and financial security of Indian users?

The regulations surrounding cryptocurrency in India can be quite intricate. The RBI is being cautious because they're concerned about financial stability, consumer safety, and the prevention of illegal activities.

Uncertainty can confuse people, and with trading being poorly regulated, users face risks such as scams, fraud, and lack of legal protection. Therefore, it's crucial for everyone to be vigilant and stay informed.

Many small property owners often find selling their properties to be stressful, but a skilled real estate agent can help by managing the legal and paperwork issues.

A document checklist keeps you organized, and early legal counsel can save you from future problems. All of this can make the process much smoother.

Yes, you’re right. When choosing a crypto platform, it’s essential to prioritize security and transparency rather than simply opting for the lowest fees. Look for features like two-factor authentication, regular audits, clear information on fees, compliance with regulations, and positive user reviews. These elements will not only help protect your investments but also ensure a smoother and more reliable trading experience.

ICICI Bank’s Women’s Debit Card offers specially tailored benefits for women.

• Enhanced security and complimentary insurance are key features.
• The card provides discounts on health, wellness, fashion, and lifestyle brands.
• ICICI adapts its offerings based on customer feedback, specifically addressing women’s concerns.

Choose ICICI for a card that truly supports your health and lifestyle needs.

Improving your credit score above 710 is doable and will have a major positive impact on your finances. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Maintain a low credit utilization ratio by using less than 30% of your available credit.
• Avoid becoming overly reliant on credit; manage it responsibly.
• Consider increasing your credit limits to improve utilization, but be careful not to overspend.
• Always make payments on time; setting up automatic payments can help ensure consistency.
• Keep old accounts open, as they can positively impact the length of your credit history.
• Regularly check your credit report for errors and dispute any inaccuracies.

By addressing these factors, you can steadily improve your credit score.

When dealing with USDT transactions, it’s important to remember that some risks still exist, even if you’re using two-factor authentication (2FA) and secure wallets. To keep your assets safer, consider using a hardware wallet for long-term storage. Additionally, only trade on exchanges that you know and trust.

Staying updated on the latest security tips is crucial. So, taking a proactive approach with multiple layers of security can help reduce the risks you might encounter.

Well, relying solely on major exchanges for USDT comes with risks, such as security breaches and regulatory issues.

To protect your assets, consider using multiple storage options — like exchanges, hardware wallets, and decentralized platforms. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and stay informed about security measures and regulations.

The Indian government has introduced mandatory cybersecurity audits for crypto exchanges to enhance security by identifying vulnerabilities and promoting best practices. While these audits are a positive step, it’s crucial to acknowledge that they aren’t a comprehensive solution.

Evolving threats, insufficient enforcement, insider risks, and outdated frameworks all underscore the need for more than just audits. To genuinely protect users, we must also prioritize education and continuous risk management.

Hey @Shivangi Yes, you can convert your MakeMyTrip ICICI Credit Card reward points into airline miles, or you can use them directly for flights, hotels, and travel bookings on MakeMyTrip.

Just keep in mind that the redemption options and eligibility requirements depend on the current terms and partnerships set by ICICI Bank.

The stock market can feel overwhelming, and many people share that feeling. Investing is changing because of Artificial Intelligence (AI),and it’s moving away from traditional brokers. This shift is especially important in India, where tech-friendly platforms like Groww and Zerodha are leading the way.

AI is quickly becoming a valuable partner, giving you access to tools and insights that used to be available only to the wealthy. Let’s explore how this technology is transforming the investment experience for everyone.

The Engine Room: What AI and Machine Learning Bring to Trading

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) help computers find patterns in large amounts of data. In the stock market, they quickly analyze years of price information, economic indicators, news, and social media.

The Power of Speed and Precision: Algorithmic Execution

• Algorithmic trading greatly improves execution speed.
• Human traders often need seconds or minutes to analyze and make trades.
• AI algorithms can execute trades in milliseconds, reacting faster to price changes.
• This speed is crucial for High-Frequency Trading (HFT).
• Modern platforms make it easy for anyone to use rule-based strategies.
• Retail users can access tools without needing advanced coding skills.

Trading Without Emotion

• Fear and greed are major challenges to trading success.
• AI helps eliminate these strong emotions.
• It makes trades based on established rules and facts.
• For example, it can buy when the RSI is low and volume is high.
• This helps prevent impulsive decisions and costly losses for investors.

AI Applications: Tools Empowering the Modern Investor

AI technologies do more than just speed things up; they provide important tools that help improve investment decisions.

1. Predictive Analytics & Market Forecasting
   • AI analyzes large amounts of data to predict price changes and market fluctuations.
   • Machine Learning models use years of data for short-term market forecasts.
   • This helps with risk management and makes trading more accurate.

2. Sentiment Analysis
   • AI uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to look at news, social media, and forums to understand market sentiment.
   • It can spot trends or panic early, helping investors make informed decisions.

3. Personalized Advice & Robo-Advisors:
   • AI provides customized investment strategies and funds based on a person’s goals, age, and risk tolerance.
   • Chatbots help improve financial knowledge and guide users through different platforms.

4. Fraud Detection & Risk Management:
   • AI monitors unusual trading activity to identify fraud or insider trading.
   • This helps maintain market trust and protect investors.

5. Algorithmic & High-Frequency Trading:
   • AI executes trades in milliseconds, reacting faster than humans.
   • This is a key feature of modern automated trading systems.

6. Emotionless Trading Discipline:
   • AI removes emotional bias from decisions, ensuring trades are based on logic.
   • This reduces impulsive losses caused by fear or greed.

7. Optimization & Backtesting:
   • AI tests trading bots on past data to improve their performance.
   • This helps create more reliable strategies before real trading begins.

8. Portfolio Management & Customization:
   • AI helps rebalance portfolios and gives detailed insights into risk.
   • Platforms like Zerodha’s Model Context Protocol (MCP) allow for secure, AI-driven personalized portfolio analysis.

Leading the Charge: Zerodha and Groww’s AI Revolution

In India, companies like Groww and Zerodha have done more than just offer low-cost trading; they have become strong platforms for using AI technology.

Zerodha's Focus on Security and Customization

• Zerodha has worked hard to create a safe, reliable system that connects users to the market.
• They use AI to analyze market trends and user behavior to provide real-time insights.
• Traders receive automated alerts for sudden price changes.
• Founder Nithin Kamath hopes users will be able to create custom AI tools with programs like ChatGPT.
• Zerodha aims to provide fast, reliable connections while focusing on security and trust.
• Their Model Context Protocol (MCP) allows AI tools to analyze portfolios without executing trades.

Groww’s Strategy: Simplifying Investments

• Groww focuses on using AI to make it easier for new investors to access the market.
• Algorithms examine market trends and risks to recommend personalized stocks and mutual funds.
• AI chatbots help users understand investment strategies and terms, boosting their financial knowledge.
• AI monitoring tools check transactions for suspicious activities, protecting investors from fraud.

The Expert's Caution: Understanding AI's Limitations

While AI offers amazing opportunities, it’s important to keep a sensible perspective. AI is a powerful tool, but it should never be seen as a perfect guide.

Challenges in Application

• The "Garbage In, Garbage Out" (GIGO) problem shows that poor data can limit how well algorithms work.
• Bad strategies can lead to quick losses, even with automated AI.
• AI can spot patterns, but it often misses significant and unpredictable global events that impact markets.
• Human judgment is crucial for making long-term decisions.
• Many advanced AI models are "black boxes" and don’t explain how they make trade decisions.
• Investors need to understand how automated systems work before putting their money in.

Systemic and Regulatory Risks

• AI trading bots can create systemic risks for both investors and regulators.
• Market volatility can increase losses if bots can't adapt quickly.
• There are concerns about possible market manipulation by these bots.
• The complexity of AI algorithms makes it hard for authorities to monitor them.
• Regulators, like SEBI, are working on clear rules for AI trading.

Conclusion: The Future of the Hybrid Investor

The rise of user-friendly platforms like Zerodha and Groww, along with Artificial Intelligence, has changed the Indian stock market. These tools make it easier for everyday investors to use advanced trading strategies. Now, investors can access quick data analysis and emotional discipline, which were not possible a decade ago. This change has made investing more open to everyone.

Key Facts on AI’s Economic Impact:

1. AI is expected to add up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
2. The global market for AI in fintech is projected to reach $42 billion by 2030.

The future of investing combines humans and machines. Retail investors will use AI for quick analysis and execution, but they must also trust their own judgment for important long-term decisions. While technology is helpful, the final choice to buy or sell will always be up to the investor.

@Meera You’re correct — T-bills offer slightly higher returns and are very safe, but their short-term nature and absence of periodic interest make them less ideal for investors seeking steady income. They’re better suited for parking funds temporarily or for risk-averse investors focused on capital preservation.

@Vedik_AA
Missing a credit card payment often results in a late fee and can lower your credit score right away. Interest on the unpaid balance begins to accumulate each day. Missing one payment usually won't significantly impact your credit limit or benefits, but consistently missing payments can decrease your limits and rewards.

@DevShastra said in Fixed Deposits vs. Debt Mutual Funds: Which Will You Choose in 2025?:

Thanks for this detailed article but I have one query:
If stability and guaranteed returns make FDs appealing, but flexibility and higher potential returns favor debt mutual funds — is it really about choosing one, or finding the right balance between both in 2025?

In 2025, it’s less about choosing between FDs and debt mutual funds and more about balancing both. FDs ensure stability and safety, while debt funds offer flexibility and better returns. A smart mix helps manage risk, liquidity, and consistent growth in changing economic conditions.

@Meera
Private banks offer better digital services, faster access, and slightly higher FD rates, while public banks ensure safety and personal support. Choosing between them depends on whether you value convenience and flexibility more or prefer long-term reliability and trust from established public institutions.

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, launched on September 17, 2023, recognizes and uplifts traditional artisans. This transformative scheme emphasizes the dignity of craftspeople, providing not just financial aid but also support for those in the unorganized sector. It coincides with Vishwakarma Day, highlighting the importance of these skilled workers.

The philosophy focuses on honoring traditional skills, especially through the guru-shishya model, while preparing workers for contemporary success.

Understanding the Scheme’s Core Mission

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana allocates ₹13,000 crores from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28 to support artisans. It focuses on providing recognition, training, credit access, and market linkages for skilled workers.

• Joint implementation by MoMSME, MSDE, and DFS.
• Focus on empowering marginalized groups.
• Target groups include Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, and women.

Who Benefits? The Traditional Trades Covered

The scheme aims to support around 3 million artisans and craftsmen in India, both rural and urban. It focuses on individuals using traditional hand tools. The government has identified 18 to 19 traditional trades included in this initiative, many of which may be familiar to the public.

• Woodworkers include carpenters, boat makers, and masons, with masons being the most registered.
• Metal workers consist of blacksmiths, lock makers, and goldsmiths.
• Clay workers comprise potters, sculptors, and toy makers.
• Fabric workers include tailors, washermen, barbers, and garland makers.
• Leather workers are cobblers and basket/mat makers.
• Other trades include fishnet makers.

Eligibility at a Glance

For an artisan or craftsman to apply, certain criteria must be met to ensure that the benefits reach the intended population.

• The applicant must be an Indian resident (permanent resident).
• The minimum age is 18; some sources specify up to 60 years.
• Must be engaged in one of 18 recognized traditional trades.
• Benefits are limited to one family member (husband, wife, or unmarried children).
• The applicant must not be a government employee.
• Cannot have used a similar government credit scheme in the last five years.

Documents Required

• Required documents for registration include the Aadhaar Card, Bank Passbook, and PAN Card.
• The Age/Birth Certificate confirms the applicant's age is between 18 and 60 years.
• A passport photo, mobile number, and email ID are also necessary.
• A BPL or Ration Card, Caste Certificate, and Income Certificate are required for eligibility.
• The Residence Certificate confirms permanent residency in India.
• Identity proof and a Training Certificate for traditional trade skills are needed.
• The registration process includes Aadhaar authentication using biometrics.
• Documents must align with the specific traditional skill of the applicant.

The Pillars of Support: Transforming Lives

The scheme offers holistic support designed to enhance productivity, increase financial security, and provide dignity for the workers.

1. Recognition and Dignity

• Artisans receive PM Vishwakarma Certificates and ID Cards.
• Recognition offers dignity and acceptance for traditional trades.
• Example: Mason Prateek Prakash Rao Jamadkar illustrates this impact.

2. Skill Development and Modernization

• Skill intervention training lasts 5 to 7 days for capability upgrades.
• Trainees earn ₹500 daily as a stipend during training.
• Successful completion rewards beneficiaries with a ₹15,000 e-voucher for modern tools.
• The toolkit incentive enhances efficiency for the trainees.

3. Collateral-Free Credit Support

• Collateral-free ‘Enterprise Development Loans’ aid artisans by reducing their reliance on expensive moneylenders.
• The loan is divided into two stages, totaling up to ₹3 lakh.
• Tranche 1: ₹1 lakh loan after basic training; 18-month repayment period.
• Tranche 2: ₹2 lakh loan after the repayment of the first tranche; 30-month repayment period.
• Beneficiaries must maintain a standard loan account and ideally adopt digital transactions.
• The interest rate is fixed at 5% due to an 8% government subvention, enhancing accessibility.

4. Market Linkages and Digital Incentives

• The scheme supports Vishwakarmas in national and global competition.
• Marketing support includes quality certification, branding, and market linkages through various platforms.
• Beneficiaries receive ₹1 per digital transaction, promoting digital reform and reducing cash usage.

Getting the Loan: The Process Explained

Many beneficiaries who receive their PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card wonder how the loan disbursement process works. Here is what you need to know:

1. List Generation: A list of eligible beneficiaries who have received their certificates, ID cards, and training stipends is prepared.
2. Bank Notification: This list is sent to the banks where the beneficiaries have their registered accounts.
3. Contact: If your name is on this list, the bank should contact you directly (via a phone call to your registered mobile number) to discuss the loan.
4. Proactive Approach: If you do not receive a call from the bank, you must visit the bank yourself and make contact to inquire about the loan.

Remember, the loan is typically provided once you have received your certificate and the training/toolkit support payment.

A Look at the Impact So Far

The scheme has demonstrated remarkable success in achieving its targets. As of 31 August 2025, the scheme has nearly reached its five-year goal, with approximately 30 lakh registered artisans and craftsmen. Here are some actual facts detailing the progress:

• Over 26 lakh beneficiaries have completed skill verification.
• About 86% of verified individuals have finished basic training.
• More than 23 lakh e-vouchers have been issued for toolkit incentives.
• Over 4.7 lakh loans have been approved, totaling ₹41,188 crore.

The scheme is truly catering to a wide base, reaching states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh.

Conclusion

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to uplift India's traditional workforce by enhancing skills and providing support. It connects artisans with opportunities through recognition, skill development, access to credit, and market guidance. The initiative empowers individuals such as barbers and carpenters to establish modern businesses and acquire the necessary tools. Ultimately, the scheme fosters pride and prosperity in India's heritage.