For decades, the answer to every Indian saver’s question “Where should I put my money?” was almost automatic: Fixed Deposit. Today, that answer is no longer so simple.

The Nifty IT Index has experienced a volatile cycle over the past year, marked by premium valuations in late 2024, a sharp correction in early 2025, and recent signs of stabilization. While long-term growth drivers remain intact, short-term earnings pressures and global uncertainties have weighed on sentiment.

By March 2025, individuals owned 19.3% of the total market cap of micro-cap stocks. That’s already a big number. But here's the kicker: when we look only at non-promoter holdings, that is, shares available to the public, retail investors control over 70%. That’s a staggering concentration.

As living costs soar, many middle-aged private-sector employees in India are falling behind in retirement planning. This post explores why nearly half of them contribute little to their retirement funds, the limitations of traditional pension schemes, and how mutual funds, especially SIPs, can offer a more secure financial future. Are you doing enough to retire comfortably?

SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) lets you withdraw a fixed amount regularly (monthly, quarterly, or weekly) from your mutual fund investment without immediately touching the entire principal amount. 

Under the new tax regime, individuals with a taxable income of up to ₹12 lakh (or even ₹12.75 lakh for salaried folks after the standard deduction) effectively pay no tax.