Farooque Akhtar
A simple New Year budget reset at the beginning of the year can completely change your spending habits. Every New Year begins with good intentions. We promise ourselves that we’ll save more, spend less, and manage money better. Unfortunately, most financial resolutions disappear within a few weeks because they rely on motivation instead of a … Read more
Diwali Bonus Calculator helps you decide how much of your festive bonus to spend, save, and invest using a simple 20-30-50 allocation strategy. Getting a Diwali bonus feels great. For many employees, it is the biggest lump-sum amount they receive outside their regular salary. The problem is that most bonuses disappear within a few weeks … Read more
Managing a monthly budget doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Many budgeting apps charge subscription fees or include features that most people never use. If you simply want a practical way to track your income, expenses, and savings, Google Sheets is more than enough. I created these Zero-Cost Budget Templates after helping many salaried … Read more
No-Cost EMI vs Upfront is one of the most common financial decisions Indian buyers face when purchasing smartphones, laptops, TVs, and other expensive products. While a No Cost EMI may look like an interest-free deal, the real cost depends on discounts, hidden charges, and how you manage your money. Imagine you’re buying a new laptop … Read more
Most Indians use credit cards emotionally. Smart users use them strategically. The credit-card float method is a smart way to use your credit card billing cycle to manage short-term cash flow without paying interest. When used correctly, it allows you to spend today, keep your money for up to 45 days, and still earn rewards. … Read more
Inflation does not destroy money overnight. It quietly reduces purchasing power month after month until people suddenly realize their “safe savings” are no longer enough. Many Indian investors struggle with one basic question during high inflation periods—should money be kept as an emergency fund or invested in mutual funds for higher returns? When inflation touches … Read more
Although a 6-month emergency fund on a $25,000 salary may seem challenging, it is totally doable with a well-thought-out plan. Disciplined saving and sensible spending management can eventually contribute to the development of financial security, even on a low salary. This post describes how salaried people making ₹25,000 a month can use a straightforward spreadsheet … Read more
Learning how to read your salary slip like a CFA helps salaried employees understand hidden deductions, tax-saving opportunities, and their real take-home salary. Most salaried employees look at only one number on their salary slip: “Net Salary Credited.” That is a mistake. Your salary slip is not just a payment receipt. It is a financial … Read more
65 20 15 Budgeting Rule in India is becoming the practical alternative to the outdated 50-30-20 budgeting formula. Rising rent, EMIs, inflation, and lifestyle costs have made traditional budgeting unrealistic for many Indian salaried households. The internet loves the 50-30-20 budgeting rule. 50% for needs.30% for wants.20% for savings. Sounds clean. Sounds smart. Sounds Instagram-friendly. … Read more
Most Indians today are stuck between two wealth-building paths. One group believes disciplined SIP investing is enough. The second group thinks building a side hustle and reinvesting profits creates faster financial freedom. Both sides quote “15% returns.” But here’s the uncomfortable reality most finance influencers avoid: A 15% return from a mutual fund SIP and … Read more
