Are Fixed Deposits a Secure Investment Choice for Indians

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  In the vast landscape of investment options available to Indian investors, fixed deposits (FDs) have long been considered one of the safest choices. With a reputation for stability and reliability, FDs are favored by those seeking steady returns without the volatility associated with other forms of investment. However, as with any financial decision, it is essential to thoroughly assess the safety of fixed deposits in the Indian market to make informed choices about where to entrust your hard-earned money.

The Basics of Fixed Deposits

Fixed deposits are investment instruments offered by banks and financial institutions that allow investors to deposit a sum of money for a fixed period at a predetermined interest rate. These deposits typically offer higher interest rates compared to savings accounts and are considered low-risk investments due to their fixed returns and the safety net provided by regulatory bodies.

Regulatory Framework

One of the primary factors contributing to the perceived safety of fixed deposits in India is the robust regulatory framework governing the banking sector. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as the country’s central banking institution, plays a pivotal role in overseeing and regulating banks and financial institutions. The RBI’s stringent guidelines ensure that banks maintain adequate liquidity, capital adequacy ratios, and adhere to prudential norms to safeguard depositors’ interests.

Additionally, the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), a subsidiary of the RBI, provides insurance coverage on bank deposits, including fixed deposits, up to a certain limit. As of now, the deposit insurance coverage is set at 5 lakh per depositor per bank. This insurance coverage provides an additional layer of protection to depositors in the event of bank failure or financial distress.

Credit Ratings of Banks

Another crucial aspect of assessing the safety of fixed deposits is evaluating the creditworthiness of the banks offering them. Credit rating agencies such as CRISIL, ICRA, and CARE assess the financial strength and stability of banks, assigning them credit ratings that reflect their ability to honor their financial obligations, including repayment of fixed deposits.

Investors can refer to these credit ratings to gauge the relative safety of fixed deposits offered by different banks. Banks with higher credit ratings are deemed to be more financially sound and less likely to default on their obligations, thereby offering greater safety for depositors’ funds.

Interest Rate and Inflation Risk

While fixed deposits are considered safe in terms of capital preservation, they are not immune to certain risks that can erode the real value of returns. One such risk is the impact of inflation on the purchasing power of money. Inflation, the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises, can reduce the real value of fixed deposit returns over time, especially if the interest rates offered fail to keep pace with inflation.

Investors should carefully consider the prevailing interest rates and inflationary trends when choosing fixed deposit options to ensure that their returns adequately compensate for inflation risk. While higher interest rates may offer better returns, they could also indicate higher perceived risks or longer lock-in periods, necessitating a balanced approach to risk and return.

Liquidity Considerations

Fixed deposits are known for their fixed tenures, which means that investors commit their funds for a specific period, ranging from a few months to several years. While this fixed tenure provides stability and predictability of returns, it also limits liquidity, as premature withdrawal may incur penalties or forfeiture of interest.

For investors seeking liquidity or flexibility with their funds, alternative investment options such as savings accounts, liquid funds, or short-term debt instruments may be more suitable. However, it is essential to weigh the trade-offs between liquidity and returns when making investment decisions and align them with one’s financial goals and risk tolerance.

Diversification and Risk Management

While fixed deposits offer a secure investment avenue, prudent investors often adopt a diversified approach to risk management by allocating their funds across multiple asset classes. Diversification helps mitigate concentration risk and provides exposure to a broader range of investment opportunities, potentially enhancing overall returns while reducing portfolio volatility.

In addition to fixed deposits, investors may consider allocating funds to equities, mutual funds, bonds, and other financial instruments based on their risk appetite, investment horizon, and financial objectives. By spreading investments across different asset classes, investors can optimize risk-adjusted returns and safeguard against adverse market movements.

Why Choose Shriram Fixed Deposits?

Shriram Fixed Deposits are a reliable investment option in India, known for their safety and attractive interest rates. Here’s why they are a prudent choice:

High Safety Ratings: Shriram Fixed Deposits are rated “(ICRA)AA+ (Stable)” by ICRA and “IND AA+/Stable” by India Ratings and Research. These ratings indicate a high degree of safety for investors.

Assured Returns: Regardless of market fluctuations, Shriram Fixed Deposits offer steady and guaranteed returns. You can rely on them for consistent growth.

Attractive Interest Rates: With fixed deposit interest rates as high as 9.40%* p.a., Shriram Finance will help your savings grow effectively. Senior citizens receive an additional 0.50%* p.a., while women depositors get an extra 0.10%* p.a.

Flexible Options: Choose from flexible tenures (12 to 60 months) and various interest payout frequencies (monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, yearly, or at maturity).

Calculate Returns: Shriram Finance Limited offers a convenient Fixed Deposit (FD) Calculator on the website to help you estimate returns on your investment.

Conclusion

Fixed deposits remain a cornerstone of the Indian investment landscape, offering a safe and stable avenue for preserving capital and earning assured returns. The safety of fixed deposits in the Indian market is underpinned by a robust regulatory framework, deposit insurance coverage, and the creditworthiness of banks. However, investors should consider factors such as interest rate risk, inflation risk, liquidity constraints, and the need for diversification when evaluating fixed deposit options.

By conducting thorough due diligence, diversifying their investment portfolios, and aligning their investment strategies with their financial goals, investors can make informed decisions to safeguard their wealth and achieve long-term financial security. Fixed deposits, when used judiciously as part of a well-rounded investment strategy, can play a valuable role in helping investors achieve their financial aspirations with confidence and peace of mind.

Malabar Group Scales Up ‘Hunger-Free World’ Programme; To Distribute 51,000 Nutritious Food Packets Every Day

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  ‘Hunger-Free World’, the ongoing CSR programme by Malabar Group to provide nutritious daily meals to the needy, will be expanded to cover more people and cities. At present, as many as 31,000 food packets are distributed under the ambitious programme, initiated to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 2 – Zero Hunger. As part of scaling up, 51,000 nutritious food packets will now be distributed.

The expansion plan was officially flagged off by Adv. P S Sreedharan Pillai, Honourable Governor of Goa, at the World Hunger Day observance event held on May 28th, at Malabar Headquarters (MHQ). M P Ahammed, Malabar Group chairman, presided over the function. P T A Rahim, MLA unveiled the Hunger Free World donation gateway and Thottathil Raveendran, MLA launched the official newsletter. Dr Basith Vadakkayil, Project Head – IPRH Daya Rehabilitation Trust, briefed him about the programme. P K Ahammed, Peekay Group Chairman, and P V Chandran, Mathrubhumi Managing Editor, offered felicitations. K P Veeran Kutty, Executive Director, Malabar Group, graced the occasion with his presence. O Asher, Malabar Gold & Diamonds Managing Director (India Operations), welcomed the guests and Nishad A K, Malabar Group Executive Director, proposed the vote of thanks.

At present the programme is implemented in 37 cities spread across 16 states including Union Territories, apart from a few centres in the Gulf countries. As part of the expansion, the programme will now cover 70 cities in 16 states. Besides, the Group also plans to launch the same programme for school children in the African nation of Zambia known for the largest level of gold mining in the world.

“There are still plenty of people around us who are struggling to secure at least one square meal a day. We launched this programme as a small hand of help to those governments and agencies working hard to eliminate hunger from our world,” said M P Ahammed.

The Hunger Free World programme is executed with the help of the highly recognised social welfare NGO `Thanal-Daya Rehabilitation Trust’ Modern kitchens have been set up in different places to prepare nutritious food in a hygienic environment by skilled chefs. The volunteers of Malabar Group and Thanal identify the needy people in the streets and urban suburbs and bring the food packets to their doorsteps.

The NGO volunteers are also surveying the beneficiaries to assess the social and economic causes of hunger. As part of this programme, the Malabar Group in association with Thanal, has already started the ‘Grandma Home’ project to identify poor and orphaned elderly women and provide them with free food, accommodation and other health care. Two such `Grandma Homes’ have been set up in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Plans are afoot to set up similar homes in Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and a few select cities in Kerala. This will provide an opportunity for neglected and orphaned women to live with dignity. The Group has also launched a micro-learning programme to support the primary education of street children.

Apart from this, the Malabar Group is also active in other social welfare and charitable activities like financial assistance for medical care, education support to female students, and partial support for house construction. The Group earmarks five percent of the profits from its verticals, including Malabar Gold & Diamonds, as a CSR fund for social welfare activities. The Group has already spent Rs 246 crore on such social welfare programmes.

Introducing The World’s First AI Call Scanner by Truecaller: The Fastest & Most Accurate AI Voice Scam Detection System

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  Three seconds! That’s how much of your voice an AI voice synthesizer needs to generate a complete clone of your voice. Illegitimate voice cloning and speech synthesis technologies are improving at an incalculable rate of change and are, unfortunately, already commoditized and ubiquitous. This next wave of AI scams will prey on the most vulnerable side of our psyche: the threat of our loved ones in danger.

Truecaller, the world’s leading global communications platform, is proud to announce the latest salvo in its arsenal of spam and scam-fighting abilities: the AI Call Scanner. AI Call Scanner is trained to detect and differentiate between human voices and AI-synthesized voices, empowering people to safeguard themselves against potential scams and fraudulent activities.

The AI Call Scanner is built right into the Truecaller Android app, is part of the Premium subscription and is being rolled out in the US first, followed by India and other top Truecaller markets. The system is designed with simplicity and effectiveness in mind. If a person receives a suspicious call, all they have to do is tap a dedicated button within the Truecaller interface. The caller’s voice is recorded and this voice sample is then processed by our advanced AI model, which has been rigorously trained to identify the unique characteristics of human speech and distinguish it from AI-generated voices. All this happens in just a few seconds and we are proud to launch with a high degree of accuracy.

“The risks of AI voice scams are increasing due to the proliferation of AI voice synthesizers. Our goal was to find an effective and reliable solution before things got out of hand. I am proud to announce that Truecaller is the world’s calling app with AI voice detection built in. Truecaller already uses AI in many different ways and this was a logical and much-needed extension of Truecaller’s scam fighting abilities,“ said Alan Mamedi, CEO and Co-founder at Truecaller.

While AI Call Scanner is launching on Android first, we are already exploring avenues for further improvement and expansion, including an imminent iOS launch. Our team is actively researching ways to refine the AI model’s accuracy, reduce response times, and adapt to emerging trends in voice synthesis technology. Additionally, we are considering the potential integration of AI Call Scanner with other communication platforms and devices to extend its reach and impact; for example, building a chatbot where people can forward recorded clips for detection.

Drive Smart, Save Money: Get Motor Insurance on Bajaj Markets

Pune, Maharashtra, India Bajaj Markets, a digital online financial marketplace, provides access to car and bike insurance solutions. Partnering with leading insurance providers in India, Bajaj Markets empowers riders and drivers with a robust range of plans designed to safeguard their vehicles and finances.

Peace of Mind on Every Ride
In today’s dynamic traffic environment, accidents can occur due to various unforeseen circumstances. Comprehensive car and bike insurance offered by different insurers acts as a financial shield against such situations. These plans offer coverage for damages caused by accidents, theft, fire, natural calamities, and more, ensuring riders and drivers peace of mind on every journey.

Mandatory and Money-Saving
Car insurance is not just essential for financial protection, it’s also mandated by law in India. Bajaj Markets offers a variety of plans, including mandatory third-party liability insurance and optional comprehensive coverage, catering to diverse needs and budgets. With premiums starting at Rs. 2,094 per year for car insurance and Rs. 538 per year for bike insurance, Bajaj Markets makes securing a vehicle financially accessible.

Seamless Insurance Acquisition
Bajaj Markets’ user-friendly platform streamlines the process of getting insurance. Customers can explore plans from some of the leading insurers, compare coverage options, and get their preferred policy entirely online – all in a few clicks.

Redefining the Premium Economy Experience with Cathay Pacific’s Upcoming Fleet of Boeing 777-300ER

Hong Kong SAR  Cathay Pacific, an award-winning Hong Kong-based international airline, is set to redefine the premium economy class experience with its upcoming fleet of Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. In a recent interview regarding changes to Cathay Pacific’s new premium economy class, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager of Customer Experience and Design Vivian Lo noted that flying premium economy means “more than a seat, but rather an experience”. With a focus on designing a premium cabin, the airliner has taken a more human-centric approach in designing the new premium economy experience for guests travelling on their upcoming fleet of Boeing 777-300ER.

Set to fully deploy in early 2027, Cathay Pacific made major changes to the existing premium economy experience that it has been providing for its passengers since 2012. These changes are designed to make long-haul flights more comfortable for its passengers, which means that Cathay Pacific has to adjust various elements, starting from the seat.

While the size of the seat in the new premium economy does not change, passengers will find that the new ergonomics of the seats are more accommodating. These changes include seat padding and leg rest, which brings comfort to travellers who are looking to rest, and the new wing-shaped headrest gives them a sense of privacy. Complementing this new headrest design, the LED reading lamp has moved from above the passenger to the seat, which accommodates the passenger’s seating position as they choose to sit up or recline. Lastly, the process of deploying and stowing tables in the premium economy class has been automated to buttons.

Cathay Pacific also opted to use this as an opportunity to change its entertainment system offerings. Passengers will be introduced to 15’6 inch 4K TV screens when flying in premium economy, with a new graphical user interface to complement this new equipment. Bluetooth pairing was another change implemented, allowing passengers to bring and use their headphones while enjoying Cathay Pacific’s in-flight entertainment offerings.

To reflect this experience, Cathay Pacific has also elevated the dining experience for its premium economy passengers. The airline has partnered with various popular Hong Kong restaurant groups to cater to the ever-changing palettes of travellers. In addition to Italian comfort food Pirata and traditional Hong Kong flavours from Duddell’s, vegetarian restaurant groups Veda and Plant Sifu are also among these partnerships. This collaboration offers Jain meal options and plant-based options to health-conscious travellers without compromising Cathay Pacific’s dedication in providing passengers with a high-quality and flavourful dining experience.

To complement their updated menu, Cathay Pacific looked closer to home for inspiration for adjustments to their wine selection. Working with several of China’s leading winemakers, Cathay has updated its wine selection for premium economy passengers which includes Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite’s Domaine de Long Dai 2020.

Topping up the changes to the premium economy experience include 2 dedicated washrooms for these passengers flying on the Boeing 777-300ER. As a vote of confidence, Cathay Pacific will add 16 premium economy seats to their Boeing 777-300ER models compared to other aircraft in their fleet. Aircraft models such as the current A350s are candidates for this retrofitting in the future.

Red FM Rolls Out Season 2 of Award-winning Show – Quiz India Movement

Delhi, India India’s leading private radio and entertainment network, Red FM, announced season 2 of the Quiz India Movement, a celebration of India’s unending curiosity, thrill, and sharp intellect. Following the phenomenal success of Season 1, which engaged cricket fans, QIM is back with Season 2, promising even more excitement, bigger rewards, and an unforgettable online gaming experience. The second season will begin on 29th May 2024 and will run till 29th June 2024.

RJ Raunac, National Content Creator Award winner will host the show. Renowned for his engaging personality and deep cricket knowledge, RJ Raunac will enhance the experience, providing real-time live-action that redefines the traditional game show format. Running alongside the T20 World Cup, this year’s Quiz India Movement ensures cricket fans stay engaged and have numerous chances to showcase their knowledge and win substantial rewards.

Listeners can log in and start practicing from 29th May 2024. The first live quiz is scheduled for 7th June 2024 and will be a weekly event every Friday until 29th June 2024. Each question in the live quiz awards Rs. 21,000/-, and there are weekly bumper prizes of Rs. 1,00,000/- for a few lucky winners. Additionally, the powerplay section offers more opportunities to win big.

Speaking on the announcement, Nisha Narayanan, Director & COO, of RED FM, and Magic FM, said, “Last year was the first time that a radio network introduced live broadcasting in gaming and the unprecedented success of Season 1 of Quiz India Movement made sure we brought it back for Season 2. Our objective with QIM has been manifold, establishing QIM as an IP that sets the gold standard for quizzing in India and blending the power of radio and digital for the ultimate user engagement experience. Incorporating an engagement hook that brings the audience back every day to play was also a decisive factor in creating the Quiz India Movement. Season 2 is based on the T-20 World Cup and the seasons to follow will have varied themes. We are looking forward to our audience’s continued love.”

Rajasthan’s First SEBI Approved CAT1 Fund by Marwari Catalysts

Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India Startup accelerator: Marwari Catalysts is igniting entrepreneurial spirit in tier 2 – tier 3 cities of India. Got its first SEBI-approved Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) CAT 1 Angel Fund.

With a 100 crore fund dedicated to supporting 300 startups, MCats has evaluated over 9,000+ startups & built an impressive portfolio of 80+ startups of them making significant strides with 8+ exits. The accelerator boasts a 100+ Co-founders Club and is headquartered in Jodhpur, with regional offices in Mumbai head – Nikhil Gupta, Bangalore head – Anil Chhikara, Jaipur head – Anish Thomas, and Delhi. Having conducted 8 successful cohorts, with game-changing startups like TURMS, Jaipur Watch Company, Hobit, ClimeKare, Insurance Padosi, Bank Sathi, ZoWorld, Revoquant, Accelerate India, Yearbook Canvas, MOB, and UCR. MCats, a leading startup accelerator is driving innovation. 4 portfolio founders have appeared on Shark Tank.

We have tasted 50x growth and celebrated a 10x exit. These startups, collectively generating 500+ crore in revenue, employing more than 2000+ people, and raising 350+ crore in funds, are revolutionizing industries and paving the way for a prosperous future. Standing out as a trusted partner for investors due to our “mentors with skin in the game” approach.

Their upcoming flagship event, the Startup Xchange, will feature four physical demo days held across major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Jodhpur. Beyond the AIF, MCats boasts strong associations with family funds, corporate houses, and a powerful network that extends to celebrity co-investors. Specifically to nurturing and empowering startups across a diverse range of industries, including Fintech, ReligionTech, SportsTech and Gaming, AR/VR, D2C, Ayurveda, Enterprise AI, MediaTech and Entertainment, PropTech, DefenceTech, BioTech, Food and AgriTech, Climate Change, Healthcare, SupplyChain Logistics, and even SpaceTech.

Adding to the excitement, MCats boasts an impressive roster of celebrity co-investors, including; Amit Jain (Car Dekho); Virendra Gupta (Daily Hunt) Dr. Kumar Vishwas, renowned poet; Kailash Kher, Kunal Shah,(CRED) and Azhar Iqbal (inshorts), With MCats’ deep commitment, strong funding, and star power backing.

“We are thrilled to launch Rajasthan’s first AIF CAT 1 fund, marking a significant step in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in our region. This initiative highlights our commitment to providing essential guidance, connections, and resources for startups to thrive. Join us in this transformative journey,” Sushil Sharma, Founder & CEO of Marwari Catalysts.

“As serial entrepreneurs and angel investors, we are staunch believers in the transparency and transformative force of innovation,” said Nitin Sethi, Joint President, Chief Digital Officer – Adani Group.

“We’re building a collaboration-driven platform where founders secure financial backing and tap into the wisdom of successful Limited partners who have been there and done that,” said Nirav Jogani, Vice Chairman – Lemon Consultech Group.

Chintan Sheth, CFO – Navika Capital Group said, “With the launch of the AIF, ultra-high net worth investors can easily access a portfolio of complementary Indian startups to enhance their long-term equity portfolios.”

Dr Seema Choudhary, Founder & Managing Director – Seema Finechem Industry said, “I am really happy to be part of AIF’s initiative to open Innovation and Learning Centers. Seen through the eyes of the benefitted funders, the results are gratifying and encouraging. My best wishes to the entire AIF team.”

Guns to Glamour: Former Army Captain Rahul Bali walks the Red Carpet at Cannes to make India Proud

New Delhi, Delhi, India The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival saw an extraordinary Indian fervor with Indian Actors, Filmmakers & Influencers shining the most on the Red Carpet that was full of myriad Indian Flavours.

The iconic film festival which wrapped on May 25, saw a number of unprecedented firsts for India from Payal Kapadia’s film winning the Grand Prix and Anasuya Sengupta bagging the Best Actress Award to Captain Rahul Bali becoming the first Indian Army Veteran turned Filmmaker to walk on the world’s most glamourous Red Carpet spreading the fragrance of India in the French Riviera like never before.

An ex-Army officer turned Filmmaker Captain Rahul Bali debuted at the Cannes Film Festival wearing a traditional Indian Band Gala Suit with the Indian Flag pinned on his chest proudly flaunting the power of India to officially launch the First Look Poster of his film – LOVE IN VIETNAM at the Bharat Pavilion.

Based on the bestseller book ‘Madonna In A Fur Coat,’ the India-Vietnam collaboration film stars Shantanu Maheshwari and Avneet Kaur along with popular Vietnamese star Kha Ngan.

It is the first-ever INDIA -VIETNAMESE co-production Movie that is being produced with the support of Embassies and Consulate Generals of India and Vietnam in the respective countries.

Written & Directed by Rahhat Shah Kazmi the film is Produced by Omung Kumar, Rahhat Shah Kazmi, Captain Rahul Bali, Abhishek Ankur, Co-produced by Tariq Khan, Zeba Sajid, Samten Hills, Dalat, Associate Producer Vikas Sharma with Vietnam Airlines being the official Airline partner.

Captain Rahul Bali, a well-known name in the international festival circuits is an award-winning Indian Film Festival Curator who has been successfully spreading the fragrance of India globally by curating Indian Film Festivals and creating synergies for cultural cooperation between India and the world.

Having turned Producer with Love in Vietnam, Captain Rahul Bali is confident that this landmark Co-production movie slated to be shot in several exotic locations across Vietnam & India would surely be the starting point of a great cinematic relationship between the two great countries and would open a lot of opportunities and synergies between India and Vietnam.

HDFC Credila Education Loan Live on Bajaj Markets

Pune, Maharashtra, India Bajaj Markets augments its education loan offerings through a partnership with HDFC Credila. This collaboration signifies a significant step in providing lending solutions tailored to the unique needs of students and their families, amplifying the choices available to them.

A pioneer in the field, HDFC Credila brings its expertise and a diverse range of education loan products to Bajaj Markets, fostering convenient access to financing solutions for international academic pursuits.

With HDFC Credila Education Loan now available on Bajaj Markets, students can gain access to a maximum loan amount of Rs. 75 Lakhs for unsecured loans, with no upper limit on secured loans. The competitive interest rates, starting at 10.25% per annum, ensure affordability, making quality education within reach.

Individuals can reap the benefit of a flexible repayment tenure, extending up to 15 years. The eligibility of the applicant is determined based on their academic achievements, chosen institute/course/country, and their co-borrower’s financial profile. The digital application journey, coupled with faster disbursal ensures a seamless borrowing experience.

The introduction of HDFC Credila Education Loan on Bajaj Markets marks a significant milestone in providing comprehensive financial solutions for educational pursuits. Bajaj Markets reinforces its commitment to variety, transparency, and convenience, reflecting its role as a trusted platform for comparing and applying for loans.