Google Maps has now become an important part of my daily life and I am sure of millions others. I use it to know how much time it will take to reach a particular destination, what is the traffic situation and possible alternative routes. I used it almost 10 years ago when I traveled from … Read more
Amidst all the things that are happening inour life on a daily basis, retirement planning often takes a backseat. In most cases, people don’t realisethe importance of planning for their older self until they turn 35 or maybe 40. The key to a safe and relaxed retirement is planning it from as early as possible. Remember, the primary … Read more
Amit, an investor, initially invested in real estate or fixed income. Of course, he was advised by parents and close friends/relatives. These investments did not deliver enough. He is disappointed. He now is watching the fabulous returns of equity and all his friends are over the moon singing the song.
He is all set to fly too. In fact, he wants to make up for all the lost years and the lost returns with this investment. It is almost like he wants to seek a revenge.
If I ask you about the biggest scam of this century, you are likely to mention the 2008 banking scam, CWG, 2G, Coal, Madoff, etc.
It’s none of these.
The biggest scam, in my opinion, is the loot of your attention. You keep giving it away to several entities constantly on the prowl to steal it from you.
The advent of mobile and the numerous free apps have only ensured that you are a captive, constantly trading your information for the FREE servings.
Frankly, there is nothing FREE. You pay with your time, with your precious attention.
So, the budget 2016 announcements are over. The finance minister is done with his speech.
Now the incessant and sometimes over the top, commentaries on the budget will start – by experts, economists, journalists, news anchors, et al. Each one is vying for your attention presenting analysis, etc.
I am sure you too couldn’t resist taking one glance at your TV screen or your twitter timeline to find out what’s the budget saying – such is the frenzy around the event.
As I write this, your email inbox probably has also started receiving highlights and summaries of Budget 2016 – one each from your mutual funds, online newspapers and magazines.
Several of them speculated about the budget contents. How some tax benefits are going to be taken away or how more tax benefits would come in? Thankfully, none of that came true. Gives you one more reason to not go by rumours and stay away from speculations. Basically, an urge to think for yourself.
Now, if you are really interested in what was actually said and the true highlights of the budget, here is a link to the official budget site of the Govt of India.