Asianet Newsable

KoinBX Futures Set to Go Live on August 15 With Zero-Trading-Fee Passes

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 21:04:22 +0530

KoinBX is preparing to expand its trading ecosystem with the launch of futures trading, introducing leveraged markets alongside a subscription-based fee model designed for active crypto traders. The upcoming launch will bring Long and Short trading opportunities to users while putting the spotlight on a new Futures Pass structure.

KoinBX Futures Introduces a Different Approach to Trading Fees

Trading fees can become a significant consideration for users who frequently open and close futures positions. KoinBX is approaching this challenge through a monthly subscription model that provides eligible traders with a defined fee-free trading allowance.

Under the new Futures Pass system, users can select a plan based on their expected trading activity. The allowance then refreshes each month, creating a recurring benefit for traders who actively participate in futures markets.

KoinBX Futures Offers Gold and Platinum Pass Options

KoinBX’s latest announcement highlights two Futures Pass options: Gold and Platinum.

Tweet: https://x.com/KoinBX/status/2087416418786849049?s=46

https://x.com/KoinBX/status/2087416418786849049?s=46

The Gold Pass offers a ₹5 lakh fee-free allowance for ₹99 + GST per month, while the Platinum Pass provides a ₹25 lakh fee-free allowance for ₹499 + GST per month.

Monthly allowance renewal is a key part of the model. Rather than treating the benefit as a one-time allocation, KoinBX has structured the passes around recurring monthly access, potentially giving active traders greater predictability when managing trading expenses.

Zero-trading-fee benefits remain subject to the applicable pass terms, allowance limits, and eligibility conditions.

KoinBX Futures Brings Long and Short Trading

Futures trading gives market participants the ability to build strategies around both rising and falling prices. Traders who expect an asset to appreciate can take a Long position, while those anticipating a decline can consider going Short.

KoinBX Futures is also designed to provide leveraged trading. Leverage can increase exposure to market movements, but it can equally magnify losses. Traders should therefore understand how leverage works and use appropriate risk-management measures before entering positions.

KoinBX Futures Opens a New Chapter

The introduction of futures trading expands KoinBX’s product ecosystem while giving traders access to another way of participating in crypto markets. More importantly, the Futures Pass introduces an alternative perspective on trading fees by replacing repeated individual charges with a defined monthly allowance for eligible trades.

With the futures launch approaching, KoinBX is encouraging traders not to simply watch from the sidelines but to participate in the new trading experience. Download KoinBX App on Playstore or Download KoinBX App on AppStore to explore the upcoming Futures trading experience.

Zero trading fee benefits are subject to the applicable KoinBX Futures Pass terms, allowance, and eligibility conditions. Futures trading involves significant risk, and leverage can amplify both profits and losses. Traders should understand the risks before trading.

Everything You Need to Know About Zero Depreciation Car Insurance

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:19:14 +0530

When a car is repaired after an own-damage claim, depreciation may be taken into account when certain parts are valued. As a result, the value considered for those parts may be lower than their original cost. This is one of the reasons depreciation becomes relevant when choosing additional protection for a car.

What Does Zero Depreciation Insurance Cover?

Zero depreciation insurance is an add-on that covers the applicable depreciation amount on certain parts during an eligible own-damage claim, subject to the policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Under a standard policy, depreciation may be deducted from the value of parts that are repaired or replaced.

The add-on is therefore focused on one specific part of the claim calculation: depreciation. It does not replace your base car policy or change the other conditions that apply to a claim.

Why Is Zero Depreciation More Relevant for Newer Cars?

Depreciation generally increases as a vehicle and its components age. That makes the treatment of depreciation more relevant when newer cars need parts repaired or replaced under an eligible claim.

This is why zero depreciation cover is commonly associated with newer cars. The exact availability and eligibility, however, can vary depending on the insurer, vehicle age, and policy terms.

Does Zero Depreciation Cover Every Part?

The add-on does not necessarily apply in the same way to every component or every claim. Its scope depends on the policy wording, and there may be specific conditions, exclusions, deductibles, or claim limits.

Before choosing the add-on, look at details such as:

Which parts are covered
Whether any claim limit applies during the policy period
Whether the vehicle has to meet a particular age or eligibility condition
Which costs remain outside the add-on

Does Zero Depreciation Cost Extra?

A zero depreciation add-on comes at an additional premium over the base policy. The amount can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle, its age, and the policy being selected.

That additional premium is specifically for the depreciation-related protection provided by the add-on. It should therefore be considered separately from the cost and scope of the underlying car policy.

How Is Zero Depreciation Different From Other Add-Ons?

Zero depreciation deals with depreciation on applicable parts. Other add-ons address different areas of car ownership and repair.

For example, an engine protection add-on may deal with specified engine-related risks, while roadside assistance can provide services related to a breakdown or immobilisation. A consumables add-on may address items used during repairs. Each has its own scope, so one add-on should not be treated as a substitute for another.

Conclusion

A car loses value with age, but repair bills do not necessarily fall at the same pace. That is the gap zero depreciation cover is meant to address. For eligible parts, the add-on changes how depreciation is treated during an own-damage claim, which is why it is particularly relevant when the car is still relatively new.

Gold Chains for Women: Thin, Chunky or Layered

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 13:49:23 +0530

Gold chains can shape the entire look of an outfit, from adding a delicate finish to everyday dressing to creating a stronger focal point for special occasions. The difference often comes down to the design itself: fine links feel understated, broader chains bring more presence, while layered styles add depth and movement around the neckline.

When choosing a gold chain for women, think about the clothes you wear most often, the kind of jewellery you feel comfortable in, and how much attention you want the chain to draw. Different designs suit different necklines and occasions in their own way.

Let’s look at thin, chunky, and layered chain styles and see how each one can fit into your personal way of dressing.

Thin Chains for Subtle Everyday Wear

Fine proportions and delicate detailing give a gold chain for women an easy, understated appeal.

Classic Link and Cable Design

Classic links arranged in a cable-style pattern give this design a neat and balanced look. The links add enough detail to make the chain noticeable without making it feel heavy. Its simple structure works well with both traditional and modern outfits, making it easy to style for everyday wear.

Geometric Link Design

Clean lines and geometric shapes give this chain a modern feel. The structured links create a sleek look without adding too much detail. It can be worn on its own for a minimal style or paired with a pendant when you want to add a more personal touch.

Gold Beaded Design

Small rounded beads add texture and gentle movement to the chain. The repeated bead pattern gives the neckline a soft shine while keeping the design light and easy to wear. This style works well for everyday dressing and can also be paired with other fine chains for a subtle layered look.

Chunky Chains for a Statement Look

For someone who prefer jewellery with more presence, a gold chain for women with bold links or fuller proportions can instantly define the neckline.

Interlocking Link Design

Interlocking links create a strong, continuous pattern that immediately draws the eye. The close-set structure gives the chain a confident presence, while the smooth flow between each link keeps the design visually balanced.

This style works especially well with simple necklines and understated outfits, allowing the bold link pattern to become the main jewellery detail.

Sleek Fluid Chain Design

A smooth, flowing silhouette gives this chain a softer take on statement styling. Instead of relying on elaborate motifs, the design creates impact through its broad form, clean lines, and uninterrupted movement around the neckline.

For anyone looking for a gold chain for women that feels bold without appearing overly detailed, this style offers a polished and contemporary direction.

Multi-strand Chain Design

Several slender strands brought together create volume in a more fluid way. Each layer moves independently, giving the chain depth and a sense of motion while maintaining an elegant overall shape.

The multiple strands naturally frame the neckline, making this design particularly striking with open-neck blouses, dresses, and festive outfits.

Layering Multiple Chains Together

A layered gold chain for women brings depth to the neckline by combining varied lengths, textures, and decorative details.

Scrollwork Layered Design

Flowing scroll patterns give this layered design a soft and graceful look. Subtle stone details introduce a delicate touch of shine, adding to the overall elegance of the design. Its two-part design also gives you more styling options, as it can be worn together for a fuller look or separately for a simpler style.

Gemstone-accented Layered Design

Ruby and emerald accents add colour and character to the layered design. Fine filigree-style details make the edges look more decorative without making the overall design feel too heavy. This style pairs well with sarees, festive outfits, and other traditional occasion wear.

Gold and Diamond Layered Design

Multiple fine strands create a soft layered effect around the neckline, while diamond accents add subtle sparkle. It works especially well with evening wear and contemporary occasion outfits where you want the jewellery to stand out without looking overly elaborate.

How to Choose a Gold Chain Based on Your Personal Style

Choosing the right gold chain for women becomes easier when you match the design to the way you naturally dress.

Look at Your Everyday Outfits

Fine links, beads, and geometric designs suit simple outfits, while broader chains and multi-strand styles work well with bolder looks.

Check Your Neckline

Shorter chains suit open and rounded necklines, while longer or layered styles can add more depth to simple silhouettes.

Think About the Metal Tone

Yellow gold adds warmth, while a white gold chain can pair well with cooler colours and modern outfits.

Choose the Right Visual Weight

Delicate chains create a softer look, while thicker designs make a stronger statement.

Consider How You Plan to Style it

Simple chains work well for everyday wear, while textured and layered designs can suit festive and special occasions.

Find the Gold Chain for Women that Feels Right

From delicate links and beaded patterns to bold chains and layered styles, every design creates a different look around the neckline. The right choice depends on your wardrobe, styling preferences, and the occasions you dress for.

Brands like Indriya offer a wide range of gold chains for women in subtle, statement, and layered designs, making it easier to find a style that suits you. You can also visit your nearby store to see the designs in person and understand how they look when worn.

Customers can also explore their old gold exchange program, which offers 0% deduction on old gold of any karat, subject to applicable terms and conditions.

This Hair Loss Awareness Month, Traya's Saloni Anand Points to Stress: 60% of Men With Hair Loss Report It

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 15:33:56 +0530

Ask Indian men what causes hair loss and the answers arrive quickly: water, pollution, helmets, genes. The factor they almost never name is the one that appears most often in Traya's data. This Hair Loss Awareness Month, co founder Saloni Anand is pointing at it directly: in Traya's study across 5 lakh Indian men, 60% of men with hair loss reported high stress levels.

"Over 200 million Indians deal with hair loss. The majority reach for something to put on their hair. Our data across 5 lakh men shows the problem is almost always inside: stress in 60%, gut issues in 37%, sleep disruption in 30%, and nutritional deficiency driving inflammation in 65%. Hair loss is an internal health condition with an external symptom. Treating only what's visible is why most solutions fail." said Saloni Anand, Co Founder, Traya.

A country running on stress

The broader Traya Hair Test Report, mapping 4,89,721 men across 20 states and 50 cities, shows how much raw material that finding has to work with. 54.6% of Indian men report experiencing stress. In Chennai the combined share of men reporting high or moderate stress reaches 65.4%, in Hyderabad 63.9%, and in Bengaluru and Kolkata roughly 61.5%. Tamil Nadu leads the state table, followed by West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, while Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Haryana hold the calm end.

Stress, in other words, is not a niche condition that occasionally intersects with hair; in the majority of urban India it is the standing backdrop. What Anand's 60% figure adds is that among the men actually experiencing hair loss, that backdrop is reported at strikingly high frequency.

The factor hiding in plain sight

Stress occupies a strange position in Indian male life: universally experienced, rarely counted as a health factor. It is treated as the weather of adult existence, endured rather than examined. Most men have nonetheless observed the pattern in their own lives without naming it; the difficult year and the thinning hair tend to be remembered together.

What makes the 60% number useful rather than merely alarming is what it implies about where attention should go. A man whose hair loss travels with high stress can spend years on external products without ever examining the factor his own answers point at. If Indian men take one number from Hair Loss Awareness Month this August, Anand suggests, it should be this one: in the largest study of its kind in the country, the most frequent companion of hair loss was not anything on the head. It was the load being carried inside it.

More information about Traya is available on its website, while the latest news and updates can be found in the Traya newsroom.

Term Insurance Calculator: Factors That Affect Your Premium and Cover?

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 12:25:03 +0530

Two colleagues opened the same term insurance calculator on their phones. Both of them are 34 and have similar salaries. However, one saw a monthly figure that felt easy to pay, while the other saw a number double that of the first person.

The calculator wasn't broken. It just showed different prices because their personal lives and needs were very different.

Most people scroll straight to the premium offered, which is the amount you pay and how often you pay it. The choices you make before you see the final price are the most important ones. This guide explains which details change the price, which ones you can control, and why the price you see on the screen is not the final cost.

Ready to Find the Right Term Cover? Buy Term Online

How Does a Term Insurance Calculator Actually Work?

A term plan does one job. If you die during the policy term, which is the number of years the cover runs, your family receives the sum assured, the lump sum written into the document. You do not receive anything if you outlive the term. Any claim remains subject to policy conditions and to what you disclosed while applying.

The calculator estimates your insurance cost based on three main details. First is your age, then the coverage amount you want, and last is the number of years the policy should last.

If the 34-four-year-old has one child and a home loan running until the age of 53, their protection has to last past that loan. No calculator will raise this crucial point.

Which Inputs Affect Your Premium the Most?

Your age is the biggest factor. As you get older, the risk for the insurance company increases, making your policy more expensive. If you wait around 3 years to sign up, you will pay a higher rate for the entire length of the policy.
Tobacco use is also a major factor. As the insurance companies charge smokers higher rates, you will notice a significant price difference.
Then comes the size of the sum assured, and the number of years it runs. Both elements often push the figure higher.
Gender plays a smaller part, as women are generally quoted lower rates in insurance.
Add-ons are optional and additional benefits you add to your policy. They normally cost more and have their own specific rules and waiting periods.

Why Does the Cover Amount Deserve More Thought Than the Premium?

Here is the input no tool can guess for you.

Figure out how much insurance you really need by doing simple math, rather than just picking a random number. Start by adding up your total debt, like home loans. Then, add the income your family would need until your youngest child graduates.

Next, subtract any savings you already have. Remember to count your work insurance separately, since that coverage stops when you leave your job.

Then, check out other covers and compare them on a term insurance calculator. For example, one person can find that extending their policy duration by 6 years makes the plan affordable, while lowering the total payout amount didn't save much money.

Can the Quoted Premium Change After You Apply?

Yes, and this often comes as a surprise to buyers.

Your estimate becomes a price only after it is underwritten, which happens after the insurer assesses your health, income, and habits before agreeing to insure you. If you choose a high coverage amount, you will need to provide medical and income proof.

The insurer might still accept you if these tests show health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes. However, they may increase your price or decide not to offer the policy.

This makes full disclosure very important to protect the claim. If there are lifestyle habits or a treatment history left unmentioned, the claims team can reject your claim years later.

If the issued policy differs from what you expected, you have room to step back. Under the IRDA regulations, every policyholder gets a free-look period of 30 days after receiving the document. This is a window to return the policy and get a refund if someone doesn't agree with its rules.

Where a Calculator Stops Being Useful

A calculator cannot read your medical file, promise that a claim will be paid, or explain hidden rules that might affect your specific job or travel plans. It also won't choose a beneficiary for you.

What it does well is that it lets you test different insurance covers instead of guessing them.

You already know the two numbers that decide everything: one is how much your family would need, and how long they would need it. You just need to spend about 20 minutes on these calculations before you buy the insurance.

Insurance gets more expensive as you age, so buying it now is cheaper than waiting until next year. Always compare different coverage amounts and policies to see what fits your needs, and disclose honest information in your application. Once you have a clear plan, you can easily check the price associated with it.

Emirates Draw's ninth Grand Prize winner announced

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 15:57:45 +0530

The Emirates Draw announced last Friday that it had named the fourth Easy6 Grand Prize winner in history, bringing the total prize pool to $92 million, with 1.4 million entrants to date.

With the new news, contestants participating in the Emirates Draw have even more excitement and a chance to celebrate.

“ Every draw brings moments like this. Nothing beats the joy of knowing that someone’s life has been changed. We are proud to announce the new Grand Prize winner. Final checks are ongoing. We cannot fully disclose the details at this time. While we wait, let me remind you once again that on August 28th, contestants will have the same opportunity. You can also participate. This could be that opportunity. ” – Emirates Draw CEO

Who is the grand prize winner?

The winner's details will be released only after thorough verification. Please stay tuned for the details.

Among those who played Easy6 with the Grand Prize, there are those who matched five, four, and three numbers. This is also gratifying.

All Emirates Draw games follow a completely transparent and free system.

For more information, please visit only the official Emirates Draw channels.

How the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 reflects India's mid-cap market performance

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:41:38 +0530

Investors often look beyond headline indices to understand how different segments of the stock market are performing. Mid-cap companies occupy an important position between established large-cap firms and emerging small-cap businesses. These companies often represent sectors experiencing steady expansion, making them useful indicators of economic activity and investor confidence.

Tracking their performance can offer valuable insights into broader market movements and changing business trends. One of the most recognised benchmarks for this segment is the NIFTY MIDCAP 100. It provides a snapshot of how leading mid-cap companies perform across various industries, helping investors assess opportunities and market sentiment.

Let’s discover the different ways this index mirrors India's mid-cap market performance.

What is the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 Index?

The NIFTY MIDCAP 100 represents the performance of 100 leading mid-cap companies listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). It is designed to provide investors with a broad view of the mid-cap segment by including companies from diverse sectors that have established their presence and continue to demonstrate growth potential.

The index follows the free-float market capitalisation methodology, which considers only the shares available for public trading while calculating the weight of each company. This approach provides a more realistic representation of market movements than relying on total market capitalisation alone.

To ensure that it remains relevant, the NSE periodically reviews and rebalances the index. Companies that no longer meet the eligibility criteria may be replaced by others, allowing the index to accurately represent the changing composition of India's mid-cap segment.

5 reasons the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 is a key indicator of India's mid-cap market

The index reflects much more than daily share price fluctuations. It offers useful insights into company performance, sectoral movements, investor sentiment, and the broader direction of India's mid-cap market.

Tracks the performance of leading mid-cap companies

The index brings together 100 established mid-cap companies that operate across different industries. Since these businesses have already moved beyond their early stages, they often represent organisations with consistent operations and the potential for sustained expansion.

Monitoring the performance of these companies allows investors to understand how the broader mid-cap segment is performing instead of relying on the movement of a handful of stocks. This makes the index a dependable measure of overall market activity within this category.

Reflects growth across diverse sectors

The companies included in the index belong to a wide range of industries, including financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer goods, industrials, information technology, and infrastructure. This broad representation helps capture sector-specific trends alongside overall market performance.

For example, if infrastructure companies experience stronger growth due to increased public spending, investors may also compare those movements with sector-focused benchmarks such as the NIFTY INFRA Index. Together, these indices offer a clearer understanding of how different parts of the market contribute to overall growth.

Shows investor confidence in mid-cap stocks

Investor sentiment often influences the movement of mid-cap stocks more noticeably than larger companies. When investors become optimistic about corporate earnings and economic prospects, mid-cap companies frequently attract increased market participation.

As confidence improves, the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 generally reflects stronger performance across its constituent companies. On the other hand, cautious market conditions may lead to slower growth or temporary declines, making the index a useful indicator of changing investor sentiment.

Acts as a benchmark for mid-cap investment funds

Many mid-cap mutual funds and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) use the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 as their benchmark. Comparing a fund's returns with the index allows investors to understand how effectively the fund manager has performed against the broader mid-cap market over a specific period.

This comparison also helps investors evaluate consistency, identify long-term trends, and make informed choices while selecting investment products. Instead of focusing solely on returns, benchmarking provides valuable context for assessing overall fund performance.

Signals the growth potential of India's mid-cap economy

Mid-cap companies often represent businesses that have moved beyond their initial growth stage and are expanding their market presence. Their performance can offer meaningful insights into corporate earnings, industry demand, and the overall direction of economic activity.

When a broad range of these companies performs well, it may indicate stronger business confidence and increasing commercial activity across multiple sectors. As a result, the index serves as a useful measure of the health and potential of India's mid-cap segment.

Track the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 to stay ahead of India's mid-cap market trends

Following the NIFTY MIDCAP 100 can help investors gain a broader understanding of India's mid-cap market instead of relying on the performance of individual stocks. Since the index reflects leading companies across several sectors, it offers useful insights into investor sentiment, sectoral trends, and overall market direction. Regularly monitoring its movements can support better market analysis and improve long-term investment awareness.

For investors looking to stay informed and make well-researched decisions, tracking benchmark indices alongside company-specific research is essential. Using trusted online trading and investment platforms like Ventura allows investors to monitor market movements, explore investment opportunities, and access tools that support informed decision-making.

Combined with regular market analysis, this approach can help investors build greater confidence while navigating India's dynamic mid-cap market.

Rs 10 Lakh Term Loan: Full Amortization Schedule Generator

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:02:38 +0530

By the FlexiLoans Editorial Desk · Reviewed by a business-lending specialist · Updated August 2026

Quick answer: A ₹10 lakh term loan at an indicative 18% p.a. over 36 months carries an EMI of about ₹36,152. The EMI stays fixed, but its split shifts every month. Early instalments carry the most interest. Later ones repay mostly principal. Total interest across the tenure is roughly ₹3,01,486.

In this guide:

How a term loan amortization schedule is built
A full sample schedule for a ₹10 lakh loan
Why early EMIs carry the heaviest interest
How tenure changes your EMI and total interest
The schedule generator tool and eligibility basics

Key takeaways

Every EMI is part interest, part principal — and the mix flips over time.
Interest is charged on your outstanding balance, so it shrinks each month.
A longer tenure lowers your EMI but raises the total interest you pay.
Term loans from FlexiLoans run ₹50,000 to ₹50 lakh, with tenure up to 42 months.

How a term loan amortization schedule actually works

Amortization is just a repayment map. It shows how each EMI clears your loan, month by month, until the balance hits zero.

Most business term loans in India use the reducing-balance method. Lenders regulated by the Reserve Bank of India charge interest only on the amount you still owe. So your interest cost falls as the principal drops.

Each EMI has two parts:

Interest — calculated on the opening balance for that month.
Principal — the rest of the EMI, which actually reduces your debt.

The EMI amount stays the same, but the split between interest and principal changes every single month. That one idea explains the whole schedule. A clear schedule also helps you plan cash flow. You know each month’s outgo well in advance. You can even time big-ticket spending around your slow season.

Sample repayment schedule for a ₹10 lakh term loan

Let us use a clear, realistic example. Loan amount ₹10 lakh. Interest an indicative 18% per annum. Tenure 36 months. That gives an EMI of ₹36,152.

Here is how the first six months break down.

Month	EMI (₹)	Interest (₹)	Principal (₹)	Closing balance (₹)
1	36,152	15,000	21,152	9,78,848
2	36,152	14,683	21,470	9,57,378
3	36,152	14,361	21,792	9,35,586
4	36,152	14,034	22,119	9,13,468
5	36,152	13,702	22,450	8,91,017
6	36,152	13,365	22,787	8,68,230

Indicative figures. ₹10 lakh at 18% p.a. reducing balance, 36-month tenure. Rounded to the nearest rupee.

Notice the pattern. The interest slice drops a little each month. The principal slice grows by the same amount. Zoom out to full years and the shift is dramatic.

Year	Principal paid (₹)	Interest paid (₹)	Balance left (₹)
1	2,75,853	1,57,976	7,24,147
2	3,29,815	1,04,014	3,94,332
3	3,94,332	39,496	0

Indicative, same assumptions as above. Totals may vary by a rupee due to rounding.

In year one you pay ₹1,57,976 in interest; by year three that falls to just ₹39,496. Same EMI, very different make-up.

Why your early EMIs carry the heaviest interest

The reason is simple. Interest is charged on what you still owe.

In month one you owe the full ₹10 lakh. So the interest portion is at its largest. As you repay principal, the base shrinks, and the interest on each following EMI shrinks with it.

Early months: big balance, so a high interest share.
Later months: small balance, so a low interest share.

Longer tenures and higher rates make this front-loading even sharper. On a five-year loan, the first EMIs can be more than half interest. That is why prepaying early — when the balance is high — saves the most money on term loans. It attacks the principal before years of interest can pile up.

How tenure changes EMI, total interest and balance

Tenure is the biggest lever you control. Stretch it out and the EMI feels lighter each month. But you pay for that comfort in total interest.

Tenure	Monthly EMI (₹)	Total interest (₹)	Total repaid (₹)	Balance after 24 months (₹)
24 months	49,924	1,98,178	11,98,178	0
36 months	36,152	3,01,486	13,01,486	3,94,332
42 months	32,264	3,55,099	13,55,099	5,05,664

Indicative. ₹10 lakh at 18% p.a. reducing balance across three tenures.

The trade-off is clear. Moving from 24 to 42 months cuts the EMI by about ₹17,660, but adds roughly ₹1,56,921 in interest. Pick the shortest tenure your monthly cash flow can comfortably handle. As a rule, match the tenure to how long the asset keeps earning for you. A machine that pays back over three years suits a three-year loan. To test combinations quickly, use our business loan EMI calculator before you commit.

Use the amortization schedule generator tool below

Reading a sample is useful. Running your own numbers is better.

The amortization schedule generator tool below lets you set three inputs:

Your loan amount — anything from ₹50,000 upward.
Your interest rate — use the rate your lender quotes.
Your tenure — in months.

The tool below then builds a full month-by-month schedule. You see each EMI, its interest and principal split, and the closing balance for every month. Change any input and the whole schedule updates instantly, so you can compare tenures and rates side by side in seconds.

Term loan eligibility and rates you should expect

Rates and terms vary by lender and profile. A quick reality check helps you plan.

A FlexiLoans business term loan is unsecured and comes with these indicative terms:

Loan amount: ₹50,000 to ₹50 lakh.
Interest: starting around 1% per month (roughly 12%+ p.a.), depending on profile.
Tenure: 12 to 42 months.
Processing fee: 2–3% of the loan.
Disbursal: typically 48–72 hours after approval.

Basic eligibility for most unsecured business loans looks like this:

Business vintage of 1–2 years and monthly turnover of at least ₹2 lakh.
Applicant age between 21 and 65.
A healthy credit score — most lenders prefer 700+, and 720+ helps for unsecured loans. You can check yours at TransUnion CIBIL.
Audited financials, ITR and GST returns for any loan above ₹20 lakh.

A stronger credit profile usually earns a lower rate. Even a small rate cut trims thousands off your total interest. Across the market, indicative rates run from about 9–16% p.a. at banks to 14–30% p.a. at NBFCs and fintech lenders. Always confirm the live rate and fees in writing before you sign.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What does the repayment schedule for a ₹10 lakh term loan look like? At an indicative 18% p.a. over 36 months, the EMI is about ₹36,152. The first EMI splits into roughly ₹15,000 interest and ₹21,152 principal. Interest then falls every month while principal rises. Total interest over the tenure is around ₹3,01,486.

Q: How is the EMI on term loans calculated? Lenders use a standard reducing-balance formula based on your loan amount, monthly interest rate and number of months. Interest applies only to the outstanding balance. The EMI stays fixed, while its interest-principal mix shifts each month.

Q: Does a longer tenure cost more on a ₹10 lakh loan? Yes. A longer tenure lowers your monthly EMI but increases the total interest. In our example, 42 months costs about ₹1,56,921 more in interest than 24 months. Choose the shortest tenure your cash flow allows.

Q: Can I reduce interest by prepaying my term loan? Usually yes. Prepaying early — when the outstanding balance is high — saves the most interest. Check your loan agreement for any foreclosure or part-payment charges before you prepay.

Q: What documents do I need for a ₹10 lakh business loan? Typically KYC, business proof, bank statements and GST returns. For loans above ₹20 lakh, lenders also ask for audited financials and ITRs. Requirements vary, so confirm the exact list with your lender.

Ready to plan your repayment?

A clear schedule turns a big number into a manageable monthly plan. Know your EMI, understand the interest-principal split, and pick a tenure that protects your cash flow. When you are ready, compare options and apply for a business loan with FlexiLoans, or explore more guides on the FlexiLoans blog.

Sources & official references:

Reserve Bank of India — https://www.rbi.org.in
TransUnion CIBIL — https://www.cibil.com

Technical Analysis isn’t Palmistry - Rohit Tripathi Explains what pushes away new investors

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 18:01:30 +0530

In a recent podcast conversation, SEBI-registered Research Analyst Rohit Tripathi addressed that very perception, explaining why it keeps many retail investors from exploring technical analysis in the first place.

The discussion went beyond charts and trading strategies, looking at how technical analysis can help ordinary investors make more deliberate decisions with their portfolios. Tripathi argued that the discipline is not about predicting markets with perfect accuracy. It is about studying historical price data, recognising patterns and building a system for making decisions under uncertainty.

For him, the misconception is simple to explain: people mistake analysis for fortune-telling. But, as he put it, technical analysis is not about reading someone’s palm. It is about working with data and probabilities and accepting that no system needs to be perfect to be useful.

When Charts Start Looking Like Fortune-Telling

For someone new to the stock market, technical analysis can look intimidating. Candlesticks, support levels, patterns and indicators can easily create the impression that analysts are trying to predict the future from a chart. That perception, according to Tripathi, is one of the biggest reasons people hesitate to learn it.

He rejects the idea that technical analysis is a form of financial fortune-telling. His comparison is simple: judging a student’s possible career based on what they are studying and how they are performing is not the same as reading their palm. It is an assessment based on available information.

Technical analysis works on a similar principle. It studies historical price data and uses recurring behaviour to make decisions about what could happen next. There is no promise of being right every time, nor does there need to be one. What matters is having a system that is more useful than making decisions blindly.

The Problem Isn’t Always the Chart

Tripathi believes another barrier is the way people approach learning technical analysis. Many beginners consume a large amount of content, quickly move past the basics and jump straight into advanced concepts. The result is often confusion rather than confidence.

For him, the foundation matters. He compares it to mathematics: trying to learn trigonometry without understanding geometry leaves gaps that eventually show up in the work. Technical analysis is no different. Beginners need to properly understand concepts such as Dow Theory and candlesticks before attempting more complicated strategies.

He is also surprisingly blunt about how people should learn. Despite being a YouTuber himself, Rohit Tripathi recommends books over relying entirely on YouTube videos. His reasoning is that a subject as broad as technical analysis cannot realistically be understood through a couple of hours of scattered content. For him, learning requires structure, time and practice, not simply consuming more information.

The Bigger Hurdle Is Human Psychology

Even after someone understands the charts, Tripathi says the real test begins when money is involved. Knowing what a setup indicates is one thing; following the system when emotions take over is another.

He points to a familiar pattern among investors. A stock starts making a profit and impatience pushes them to sell early. A losing stock, meanwhile, can trigger ego: instead of accepting the loss, they hold on because they believe it must eventually recover. The same emotional cycle can turn into revenge trading, where investors increase their bets simply to recover money they have already lost.

That is why he does not present technical analysis as a shortcut to quick profits. He estimates that it can take about a year of consistent learning and application before someone becomes meaningfully better at making decisions. The challenge is not just reading a chart. It is learning to respond rationally when the chart does not behave as expected.

Why “Not 100% Accurate” Isn’t a Dealbreaker?

Another misconception can work against technical analysis: the expectation that a good system should always be right. Rohit Tripathi argues almost the opposite.

No technical setup works every single time. Some patterns may have a higher probability of success than others, but uncertainty remains part of the process. Rather than treating that as a flaw, Tripathi frames it around risk and reward. If a trade has a defined potential upside and a defined downside, an investor can make a decision knowing that the outcome is not guaranteed.

That distinction matters for beginners. Technical analysis, in his view, is not about finding a magic pattern that tells you exactly what a stock will do tomorrow. It is about creating a repeatable decision-making system. A few failed trades do not automatically invalidate the system; what matters is whether the overall approach produces favourable outcomes over time.

From Learning Charts to Making Better Decisions

Rohit Tripathi’s argument ultimately comes back to something more basic than charts: having a reason behind an investment decision.

A salaried investor may put money into several stocks every month simply because they already own them. Technical analysis can introduce another question: which stocks are actually better positioned right now, and which ones might be too expensive to add to?

That framework also sits alongside Tripathi’s approach to stock selection through Mini Marvels, his stock recommendation service, where the focus is on applying research and decision-making rather than simply following market noise.

For someone investing their own salary, that framework can matter more than another prediction about where the market is headed. The point is not to know the future. It is to make better decisions with the information available and to have a system to fall back on when the market does not behave as expected.

PMEGP Loan for New Businesses: Eligibility, Benefits and Application Process

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 12:15:12 +0530

Starting a new business often begins with a clear idea, but bringing that idea to life requires the right financial support. From setting up a workspace to purchasing equipment and managing early operating costs, new entrepreneurs may need funding before the business starts generating steady income.

This is where the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) can become relevant. A PMEGP loan is designed to support eligible individuals looking to establish new micro-enterprises.

Before applying, however, it is important to understand how the scheme works and what applicants are expected to meet. Let us look at the eligibility criteria, key benefits, and application process in detail.

What Does a PMEGP Loan Mean for a New Business?

The PMEGP is a credit-linked subsidy initiative that supports the establishment of new micro-enterprises. It is implemented through the Khadi and Village Industries Commission, with support from Khadi and Village Industry Boards and District Industries Centres.

For a new business, a PMEGP loan can help finance both capital expenditure and day-to-day working capital requirements. The scheme allows capital expenditure and one cycle of working capital to be included within the eligible project cost. Costs for ready-built, leased, or rented workshops or sheds may also be considered for up to three years, while the cost of land is excluded.

The scheme is specifically meant for new projects, making it relevant for eligible entrepreneurs who are planning to establish a micro-enterprise rather than finance an existing subsidised unit.

Who is Eligible for a PMEGP Loan?

Eligibility for a PMEGP loan depends on the applicant, the proposed project, and the type of entity applying. The key conditions include:

1. Age Requirement

Individual applicants must be at least 18 years old.

2. Educational Qualification

No minimum qualification is required for manufacturing projects costing up to ₹10 lakh or service projects costing up to ₹5 lakh. For projects above these limits, applicants must have passed at least Class VIII.

3. New Projects Only

The scheme applies only to new projects sanctioned under PMEGP. Existing units that have already received specified government subsidies are not eligible.

4. Eligible Entities

Self-Help Groups (SHG’s), eligible Below Poverty Line (BPL)-category SHGs, registered societies, production co-operative societies, and charitable trusts may also apply.

5. One Applicant Per Family

Only one person from a family can apply under the scheme. For this purpose, a family includes the applicant and spouse.

Applicants exploring government loan schemes should therefore check both their individual eligibility and the proposed project requirements before proceeding.

What are the Benefits of a PMEGP Loan?

A PMEGP loan combines credit support with a project-linked subsidy, helping eligible entrepreneurs manage the financial requirements of setting up a new micro-enterprise. Key benefits include:

1. Project-linked Subsidy

Eligible applicants can receive a subsidy ranging from 15% to 35% of the project cost, depending on the applicant category and project location. This can reduce the portion of the project cost that needs to be met through the applicant's contribution and bank finance.

2. Support for Manufacturing and Service Projects

The maximum eligible project cost is ₹50 lakh for manufacturing and ₹20 lakh for business or service activities. These limits allow applicants to plan their proposed enterprise within a clearly defined funding framework.

3. Lower Contribution for Special Categories

General-category applicants contribute 10% of the project cost, while eligible special-category applicants contribute 5%. The lower contribution requirement can make it easier for eligible applicants to arrange their share of the initial project investment.

4. Support for Different Funding Needs

The scheme can provide cash credit for working capital requirements and term finance for capital expenditure. This enables eligible businesses to address both day-to-day operating needs and costs related to setting up the enterprise.

5. Credit Guarantee Support

Eligible applicants can receive credit guarantee support under the scheme, helping improve access to finance for new enterprises. The applicable coverage depends on the loan amount and the conditions specified under the scheme.

Among government loan schemes, PMEGP therefore provides a structured combination of credit, subsidy, and eligible project support for entrepreneurs setting up new micro-enterprises.

How can you Apply for a PMEGP Loan?

The application for a PMEGP loan is completed through the official PMEGP e-portal. Applicants can follow these steps:

1. Check the Eligibility Requirements

Review the age, education, project, and entity-related conditions to confirm eligibility before starting the application.

2. Prepare the Project Report

Keep a detailed project report ready with information about the proposed business and its funding requirements.

3. Arrange the Required Documents

Keep documents such as Aadhaar, PAN, applicable category certificates, rural area certificates, and education or skill-related certificates ready. Institutional applicants may need additional registration and authorisation documents.

4. Visit the PMEGP E-Portal

Open the PMEGP portal and select Apply under the “Application for New Business” option.

5. Complete and Submit the Application

Enter the required information carefully and submit the completed application through the portal for further processing.

Applicants exploring government loan schemes should ensure that the details entered in the application match their supporting documents and proposed project information.

Plan Your New Business Funding With Clarity

A PMEGP loan can help eligible entrepreneurs take a structured approach to financing a new micro-enterprise. Understanding the eligibility rules, project cost limits, beneficiary contribution, subsidy structure, and application requirements beforehand can make the process easier to navigate.

Among the available government loan schemes, PMEGP is designed specifically to support new enterprises that meet the prescribed conditions. Financial institutions like HDFC Bank provide access to PMEGP financing for eligible applicants.

Entrepreneurs planning to apply should review the scheme requirements carefully, prepare a detailed project report, keep the necessary documents ready, and ensure that the proposed business meets the applicable eligibility criteria before submitting the application.

The FOIR Rule: Why a Rs 15,000 Salary Clears Eligibility at One Lender and Fails at Another

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 14:13:25 +0530

A ₹15,000 monthly salary is enough for a personal loan with some lenders and not enough with others. The salary figure has not changed. What changes is the rule each lender uses to decide how much of that salary can go into an EMI. That rule is called FOIR. Once you understand it, loan rejections stop feeling random and start making sense.

What is FOIR?

FOIR stands for Fixed Obligation to Income Ratio. It measures how much of your monthly income is already going into fixed payments.

The formula is simple:

FOIR = (Total Monthly Fixed Obligations ÷ Monthly Income) x 100

Fixed obligations usually include your existing loan EMIs, credit card minimum dues, and in some cases rent. They do not usually include groceries, fuel or other variable spending.

Why Lenders Use It

Income alone does not tell a lender whether you can repay. Two people earning ₹15,000 are in very different positions if one has no existing loans and the other is already paying ₹6,000 in EMIs.

FOIR captures that difference. It tells the lender how much room is actually left in your monthly budget for a new EMI.

Why the Limit Differs From Lender to Lender

There is no single FOIR limit set for the whole industry. Each lender decides its own comfort level based on its risk appetite.

Most lenders work within a band of roughly 40% to 55%. Some are stricter for lower income slabs, on the view that a person earning ₹15,000 needs a larger share of income for daily living than someone earning ₹1 lakh.

This is exactly why the same applicant clears at one lender and fails at another. Some lenders run dedicated products for lower income slabs, so it is worth checking the criteria for a 15000 salary personal loan before assuming you do not qualify anywhere.

A Simple Example

Take an applicant earning ₹15,000 a month with one existing EMI of ₹2,000.

At a lender using a 50% FOIR limit, the total allowed obligation is ₹7,500. After deducting the existing ₹2,000 EMI, ₹5,500 is available for a new EMI. The application clears.

At a lender using a 40% limit, the total allowed obligation is ₹6,000. After the existing ₹2,000 EMI, only ₹4,000 is left. If the applicant asked for a loan needing a ₹5,000 EMI, the application is rejected.

Same salary. Same applicant. Different outcome.

What Counts as an Obligation

EMIs on existing personal, vehicle, home or consumer loans.
Minimum due on credit cards, or a fixed percentage of the outstanding balance.
Loans where you are a guarantor, in some cases.
Monthly rent, with certain lenders.

Many applicants forget the credit card component. A large outstanding balance can add a meaningful amount to your obligation figure even if you never miss a payment.

How to Improve Your FOIR Before Applying

Clear or reduce small loans

Closing a small consumer loan removes that EMI from the calculation entirely and frees up room immediately. Running your figures through a personal loan eligibility calculator before and after shows you exactly how much room this frees up.

Bring down credit card balances

Lower outstanding balances mean a lower minimum due, which directly lowers your obligation figure.

Choose a longer tenure

A longer tenure reduces the EMI, which brings the ratio down. Remember that this increases the total interest you pay, so use it carefully.

Ask for a smaller amount

Borrowing ₹80,000 instead of ₹1.2 lakh may be the difference between approval and rejection.

Declare all income sources

Incentives, overtime and documented additional income can raise the income side of the ratio if the lender accepts them.

Add a co-applicant

Some lenders allow a spouse or family member to be added as a co-applicant. Their income is then considered alongside yours, which improves the combined ratio and can increase the eligible amount.

What Else Lenders Check at This Income Level

FOIR is important, but it works alongside other checks. Lenders also look at your credit score, how long you have been employed, whether your salary is credited to a bank account, and whether your documents match your application.

A clean repayment record can sometimes make a lender flexible on the ratio. A weak credit score rarely gets that flexibility.

The order in which you fix things matters. Improving your credit score takes months, but reducing your obligations can be done in weeks. If your application is time-sensitive, start with the obligation side.

Conclusion

Eligibility at a lower income level is decided less by the salary figure and more by how much of that salary is already spoken for. If you know your FOIR before applying, you can pick the right lender and the right loan amount instead of collecting rejections.

Calculate your ratio first, pick a lender whose limit you comfortably meet, and ask for an amount that fits the room you actually have. That single step turns a likely rejection into a straightforward approval.

Disclaimer: The figures used above are for illustration only. Interest rates, processing fees and eligibility criteria differ from lender to lender and are subject to change. Please check the applicable terms with the lender before applying.

Best Astrology Apps in India: Which One Deserves Your Download?

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 13:46:37 +0530

Confused about your career move? Wondering when love will show up? Millions of Indians now turn to their phones for answers. If you are searching for the best astrology app in India, here is a quick look at the top 10 platforms, from free astrology chat apps to detailed Vedic tools.

Quick Comparison

Before we dive into the details, here's a quick side-by-side look at how these apps stack up.

App	Known For	Consultation Type	Free Trial

Astroyogi	5,000+ astrologers, Yogi Live, daily horoscopes, free kundli	Chat, call, video	Yes, free initial window
InstaAstro	Live consults + puja bookings	Chat, call	Limited
AstroTalk	Largest astrologer marketplace	Chat, call, video	Limited
AstroSage	Raw Vedic calculation data	Self-service tools	Free tier with ads
ClickAstro	Long-form written reports	Automated reports	Paid reports
Vedic Rishi	Free charts + Karma Points	AI chat, self-service	Mostly free
Suvich	Multi-service live consults	Chat, call, video	Limited
GaneshaSpeaks	Financial astrology reports	Phone, PDF reports	Paid reports
Anytime Astro	Per-minute live sessions	Chat, call, video	Introductory pricing
AstroChat	Jargon-free AI conversations	AI chat, live experts	Limited

1. Astroyogi

Astroyogi has been guiding millions with clarity and purpose for 25+ years. It now serves 4CR+ happy customers across 85+ countries, backed by 5,000+ trusted professionals in 11+ languages, spanning Vedic astrology, tarot, numerology, palmistry, KP astrology, and Vastu Shastra.

New users get a free initial consultation window to test an astrologer before spending. Beyond paid consults, the app offers full daily, weekly, and yearly horoscopes, automated Kundli generation, Kundli Milan, and Panchang timings.

The Yogi Live feature lets you join live-streamed sessions and ask questions in real time, and you can switch between chat, voice, or video based on your comfort. Every practitioner shows clear pricing, experience, and ratings, and all consultations run through secure, masked channels to keep your data private 24/7.

2. InstaAstro

InstaAstro is a fast-growing spiritual marketplace that pairs live consultations with end-to-end remedial services. Users get chat and call access to astrologers on topics like love, career, and finance, along with daily Panchang updates and Kundli matching for couples.

What sets it apart is the addition of online temple puja bookings and an in-app store for yantras and gemstones, letting you act on a remedy right after your reading. Its basic charts run on standard Vedic algorithms, but the real value comes from the marketplace astrologers who handle the predictions.

Automated reports tend to feel templated, and the platform leans heavily on selling physical remedies alongside its consultations.

3. AstroTalk

AstroTalk has a significant peer-to-peer astrology marketplace in India, built around on-demand human astrologers and live video streaming. It offers instant one-on-one chat and call access, live sessions, daily horoscopes, matchmaking tools, and spiritual e-commerce with puja bookings included.

A standard automated birth chart is available for reference, but the accuracy of any reading depends entirely on which astrologer you choose from its large pool. The biggest advantage here is availability, since so many astrologers are online at once that you rarely wait long for a session.

The downsides are the per-minute pricing, which adds up quickly, and inconsistent astrologer quality across the marketplace.

4. AstroSage

AstroSage has become something of an industry standard in India for anyone who wants raw astrological data without paying for a live consultation. It offers a complete divisional chart suite from D1 to D60, Ashtakvarga, Shadbala, the KP System, Lal Kitab, Tajik Varshphal, Panchang, Muhurat, and Ashtakoot Guna Milan for matchmaking.

All of this runs on the Swiss Ephemeris, supporting Lahiri, KP, Raman, and custom ayanamsas, giving serious enthusiasts a lot to work with. The free tier is genuinely generous in technical depth, and chart styles are customizable across North Indian, South Indian, and East Indian formats. The catch is a cluttered, ad-heavy interface that can overwhelm anyone unfamiliar with astrological terminology.

5. ClickAstro

ClickAstro takes a different approach from most apps on this list by focusing on automated, long-form interpretative reports instead of live conversations. Built on Astro-Vision's calculation engine, it generates exhaustive life horoscope reports, career and wealth forecasts, marriage compatibility analysis, and remedial guides, with strong regional language support across 10+ Indian languages.

Its 35-year-refined algorithms map Dasha-Bhukti timelines and transit yogas with structured documentation rather than back-and-forth chat. This makes it a solid pick if you prefer reading a clear, static report over talking to someone in real time. The trade-off is a lack of real-time follow-ups, since every report is a fixed, generated document.

6. Vedic Rishi

Vedic Rishi operates as much as an astro-tech infrastructure company as it does a consumer app, powering other platforms through its AstrologyAPI while also offering its own automated, plain-language Vedic reports.

Founded in Mumbai in 2015, it gives users unlimited birth charts across Vedic, Jaimini, and KP systems with 21+ views, along with Panchang, Ashtakvarga, numerology, and Varshphal predictions. A unique Karma Points system rewards users for completing daily spiritual practices, adding a habit-building layer most competitors skip.

Most of its core features are free, and the plain-language interpretations make Vedic astrology approachable for beginners. AI chat and premium PDF reports require payment.

7. Suvich

Developed by Techzuke Online Services in Panchkula, Haryana, in 2020, Suvich connects users with astrologers through chat, phone, and live consultation formats. It covers the usual life topics like love, marriage, career, health, and finance, while also offering Vedic astrology, tarot, numerology, palmistry, and Vastu guidance in one place.

Users can check daily horoscopes, run Kundli matching, and download detailed Kundli reports directly from the app. Available in Hindi and English, Suvich works well for users who want a mobile-first blend of live astrologer access and free self-guided tools. Its strongest pull is bundling real-time consultations with a genuinely wide spread of astrology services rather than specializing in just one area.

8. GaneshaSpeaks

GaneshaSpeaks carries the lineage of astrologer Bejan Daruwalla and blends traditional Vedic methods with structured, written life forecasting. The app offers telephonic consultations, personalized PDF reports, daily and weekly horoscope columns, and even stock market and financial astrology forecasts for users tracking investments.

Its proprietary rule-based prediction engine works alongside a pool of verified astrologers, giving it a reputational edge built over decades. The written reports on specific life areas like career and finance are genuinely detailed and well organized. On the downside, the app interface feels dated next to newer competitors, and consultation pricing tends to run higher than several other platforms on this list.

9. Anytime Astro

Anytime Astro is built as a mobile-first consultation marketplace designed around friction-free booking and live audio or video sessions. It offers per-minute chat and call access, tarot reading, palmistry, Prashna Kundli for horary questions, compatibility reports, and daily horoscopes, all wrapped in a clean, transparent interface.

An automated sidereal chart engine provides baseline planetary positions that live consultants use as a reference point during sessions. Competitive introductory pricing makes it easy to try without much commitment.

As with most marketplace apps, the quality of advice varies depending on which practitioner you connect with, and the automated analysis mainly functions as a support tool rather than the main event.

10. AstroChat

Backed by People Interactive, AstroChat was founded in Mumbai in 2024 with a simple goal: turn complex chart data into plain-English conversation. It offers a conversational AI astrologer chat, plain-language birth chart breakdowns, 12-month couple forecasts, and family cosmic blueprint mapping, alongside live sessions with human experts.

The app deliberately strips out jargon like Ketu, Mahadasha, or Houses, explaining influences the way a friend would rather than a textbook. This makes it especially accessible for beginners who find traditional astrology apps intimidating, and its compatibility tools suit modern relationships and family dynamics well. Being newer to the market, it still has a shorter track record than established competitors.

Which App Should You Choose?

Every app on this list brings something different, whether it's AstroSage's technical depth or ClickAstro's written reports. If you're looking for daily guidance backed by a large network of professionals and years of credibility, Astroyogi is also worth considering. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to what matters most to you—accuracy, convenience, or the format of guidance you prefer. Try a couple of these apps and see which one fits your needs best.

How Companies Are Selected for Nifty 50 and Sensex

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 12:40:12 +0530

The Nifty 50 and Sensex are widely followed stock market indices in India. They are used to understand the broad direction of the Indian equity market and are often referenced by investors, financial institutions, analysts, and the media. Although both indices represent leading listed companies, their composition is determined through defined eligibility criteria rather than simply selecting companies based on their size or popularity.

Understanding how companies enter, remain in, or leave the Nifty 50 and Sensex can help investors better understand how benchmark indices are constructed. The selection process considers factors such as market capitalisation, liquidity, trading frequency, listing requirements, and other index-specific conditions.

What Are Nifty 50 and Sensex?

The Nifty 50 is the benchmark index of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE). It tracks 50 companies listed on the NSE and represents multiple sectors of the Indian economy.

The Sensex, also known as the S&P BSE Sensex, is the benchmark index associated with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). It consists of 30 companies selected according to criteria established for the index.

Both indices are designed to provide a representative view of the Indian equity market. However, the companies included in them are not necessarily identical because the two indices follow separate methodologies and are maintained by different index administrators.

How Companies Are Selected for the Nifty 50

The Nifty 50 is maintained by NSE Indices. Companies must meet specific eligibility conditions before they can be considered for inclusion.

1. Listing on the NSE

A company must be listed on the National Stock Exchange and satisfy the relevant eligibility requirements. Listing alone does not guarantee inclusion in the Nifty 50.

The company must also satisfy other conditions relating to liquidity, market representation, and trading activity.

2. Market Capitalisation

Market capitalisation is an important consideration when constructing a major benchmark index. It is generally calculated by multiplying the company's share price by the number of outstanding shares.

However, index methodology does not simply look at the total value of a company's shares. Free-float market capitalisation is also important because it considers the portion of shares that are available for public trading.

Companies with substantial market value and adequate public shareholding are therefore more likely to meet the relevant requirements for consideration.

3. Liquidity and Trading Activity

Liquidity refers to how easily shares can be bought or sold in the market without causing significant price changes.

For a benchmark such as the Nifty 50, constituent stocks need to have sufficient trading activity. This helps ensure that the index can be tracked and used for investment products such as index funds and exchange-traded funds.

Liquidity requirements can therefore influence both the inclusion of companies and the continued presence of existing constituents.

4. Free-Float Considerations

Not all shares issued by a company are necessarily available for regular public trading. Shares held by promoters, strategic investors, governments, or certain other categories may have restrictions or may not be treated as freely available shares for index calculations.

The Nifty 50 uses a free-float market capitalisation methodology. This means that the number of shares considered for index purposes is adjusted to reflect shares that are available for public investment.

5. Domicile and Listing Requirements

Companies must satisfy the applicable requirements concerning their incorporation, listing, and availability for trading. These conditions help maintain consistency in the index methodology.

How Companies Are Selected for the Sensex

The Sensex is maintained by BSE Indices. It tracks 30 companies and is designed to represent a cross-section of major companies listed on the BSE.

The selection process considers several factors rather than relying on a single measurement.

1. Market Representation

Companies considered for the Sensex generally have a significant presence in the Indian equity market. Market value and the availability of shares for public trading are important components of the selection methodology.

The objective is to create an index that reflects companies with meaningful representation in the market.

2. Trading Frequency

Trading activity is another important consideration. A company needs adequate trading frequency and liquidity to qualify for inclusion.

A stock that is rarely traded may not provide the characteristics required for an actively tracked benchmark index.

3. Free-Float Market Capitalisation

The Sensex follows a free-float market capitalisation methodology. This approach gives greater relevance to shares that are actually available for trading in the public market.

Consequently, two companies with similar total market capitalisation may have different weights in the index depending on their respective free-float levels.

4. Industry Representation

Index construction also considers the broader composition of the market. The Sensex is intended to represent different segments of the Indian economy rather than concentrating entirely on one industry.

This helps the index provide a broader market reference.

Nifty 50 vs Sensex: Key Differences

Although the Nifty 50 and Sensex serve similar purposes, there are important differences between them.

Feature	Nifty 50	Sensex
Exchange	NSE	BSE
Number of companies	50	30
Associated index administrator	NSE Indices	BSE Indices
Broad purpose	Benchmark for the NSE-listed equity market	Benchmark for the BSE-listed equity market
Methodology	Free-float market capitalisation	Free-float market capitalisation
Sector representation	Multiple sectors	Multiple sectors

The number of companies is one of the most visible differences. Because the Nifty 50 contains 50 stocks while the Sensex contains 30, their individual compositions and weightings can differ.

How Companies Enter the Nifty 50 or Sensex

A company can become eligible for an index when its market characteristics satisfy the relevant methodology.

For example, a company may experience substantial growth in market capitalisation and trading activity. If it meets the applicable requirements and ranks appropriately against existing constituents, it may become a candidate for inclusion.

However, high market capitalisation alone does not automatically mean that a company will enter the Nifty 50 or Sensex. Other eligibility requirements also need to be satisfied.

Index changes are generally made during scheduled reviews. The index administrator evaluates eligible companies and determines whether changes are required according to the methodology.

Why Companies Are Removed From the Indices

Companies can leave the Nifty 50 or Sensex for several reasons.

A company's relative market position may decline, its liquidity may change, or it may no longer satisfy one or more eligibility conditions. Corporate actions, mergers, acquisitions, delistings, or other structural developments can also lead to changes.

Index removal does not necessarily mean that a company is financially weak. It can simply mean that another eligible company has become more suitable for inclusion under the index methodology.

This distinction is important because index membership is a rules-based process rather than a direct assessment of whether a company's shares should be bought or sold.

How Index Rebalancing Affects Investors

Changes in index constituents can affect funds and investment products that seek to replicate an index.

For example, an index fund tracking the Nifty 50 may need to adjust its portfolio when the index composition changes. Similarly, products tracking the Sensex may need to modify their holdings after an index review.

Such changes can also affect the trading activity and visibility of companies entering or leaving major indices.

Investors should therefore understand that index changes can have market implications, but they should not be interpreted as standalone investment recommendations.

How Index Weight Is Determined

After companies are selected, they do not necessarily receive equal representation.

The free-float market capitalisation of each constituent is used to determine its relative weight, subject to the applicable methodology and limits.

A company with a larger eligible free-float market capitalisation may therefore have a greater influence on index movements than a company with a smaller index weight.

This is one reason why changes in a small number of heavily weighted companies can have a noticeable effect on the overall movement of an index.

Why Investors Track Nifty 50 and Sensex

The Nifty 50 and Sensex are frequently used as market benchmarks. Investors can compare the performance of individual portfolios, mutual funds, or other investments with the performance of a relevant benchmark.

They are also used as the underlying reference for various financial products, including index funds, exchange-traded funds, derivatives, and other market instruments.

For individual investors, understanding the construction methodology can provide useful context when interpreting daily index movements.

Can a Company Be in Both Nifty 50 and Sensex?

Yes. A company can be a constituent of both the Nifty 50 and Sensex if it satisfies the respective eligibility criteria.

Since both indices focus on major companies in the Indian equity market, there can be considerable overlap between their constituents. However, the two indices are independently maintained and may have different constituents, weights, and review outcomes.

The presence of a company in both indices therefore reflects its eligibility under both methodologies rather than a single joint selection process.

Conclusion

The selection of companies for the Nifty 50 and Sensex is based on defined index methodologies. Market capitalisation, free-float market capitalisation, liquidity, trading activity, listing requirements, and other eligibility conditions play important roles in determining index composition.

Companies can enter or leave these indices as their market characteristics change or as other eligible companies become more suitable under the applicable methodology. Understanding this process helps investors interpret index movements and changes in market representation more effectively.

The Nifty 50 and Sensex should therefore be viewed as structured market benchmarks rather than simple lists of the largest companies in India. Their composition is reviewed periodically to maintain their intended representation of the equity market.

Investor Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. Index constituents, eligibility criteria, methodologies, and index weightings may change from time to time. Investors should independently evaluate their financial objectives, risk tolerance, investment horizon, and applicable costs before making investment decisions. For personalised financial advice, investors should consult a qualified financial professional.

Cancer and Heart Disease Cover: Why Critical Illness Insurance Matters

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:54:25 +0530

Cancer and heart disease often require more than immediate hospital treatment. Recovery may involve regular medical care, time away from work and continued household expenses. Critical illness insurance can provide a fixed financial benefit after an eligible diagnosis meets the policy conditions.

This support may help families manage treatment-related needs, protect planned savings and maintain everyday commitments during a demanding period with greater financial confidence.

It Provides Support beyond Hospital Bills

Suppose a working parent is comparing options to find the best health insurance plan in India for the family. A regular medical policy may settle eligible hospital charges, but treatment can create several other needs.

Travel, home assistance, follow-up consultations, and routine household payments may continue. A fixed benefit can help manage such essential expenses according to the family’s priorities.

It Helps with Long Cancer Treatment

Cancer care may involve tests, surgery, medicines, therapy, monitoring and recovery over an extended period. Not every financial need arises during hospital admission. Extra funds may support travel to suitable treatment centres, prescribed care at home, rehabilitation and daily responsibilities.

This broader financial assistance matters when medical care continues across different stages and requires repeated arrangements by the patient and family.

It Supports Recovery after a Heart Condition

Heart disease may require urgent treatment followed by rest, medical reviews and structured rehabilitation. During this period, the person may need help returning gradually to normal daily activities.

A lump sum benefit can support recovery-related needs without requiring every use of the money to match a hospital bill. The exact benefit remains subject to the policy wording and accepted diagnosis.

It Can Protect Regular Household Commitments

A serious diagnosis may temporarily affect a person’s ability to work or manage usual responsibilities. Rent, loan payments, education expenses, groceries and utility bills may still need attention.

Critical illness cover can provide financial support for these commitments after an eligible claim. This allows available savings to remain useful for other planned needs rather than being directed entirely towards recovery expenses.

It Gives the Family Flexibility

The approved payout is generally linked to the selected benefit amount rather than the actual treatment bill. The policyholder may use it for medical care, rehabilitation, household support or other recovery needs.

This flexibility is important because the effects of cancer and heart disease differ from one household to another. Families can decide which immediate responsibility requires the most attention.

It Complements Existing Medical Insurance

Critical illness insurance and regular health cover perform different but useful roles. Medical insurance generally handles eligible treatment expenses through cashless settlement or reimbursement.

The fixed benefit provides separate financial assistance after a listed condition meets the policy definition. Keeping both types of protection can help address hospital charges as well as wider expenses that may arise throughout treatment and recovery.

It Reduces Pressure on Long-Term Savings

Families often build savings for education, retirement, housing or other future responsibilities. A major illness can force them to redirect those funds towards immediate financial needs.

A lump sum benefit may reduce this pressure by providing a separate source of support. Its usefulness depends on the chosen sum insured, covered conditions, waiting requirements and the insurer’s assessment of the submitted claim.

Final Thoughts

Cancer and heart disease cover matters because serious treatment can affect medical spending, income and everyday responsibilities together. A fixed benefit offers flexibility when an eligible diagnosis meets the policy conditions.

Before purchasing cover, review illness definitions, benefit limits, waiting and survival requirements, claim documents and post-payment terms carefully. Claim acceptance always depends on medical evidence and policy wording.

KoinBX to Launch Futures Trading on August 15, Introducing Zero Trading Fee Passes for Crypto Traders

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 15:22:03 +0530

Bangalore, India, August 14, 2026 — KoinBX, a leading Indian-focused cryptocurrency exchange, is set to enter the futures trading arena on August 15, 2026, marking a major expansion of its trading ecosystem.

But this launch is not simply about adding another futures product.

KoinBX is introducing a new way for traders to approach futures trading with its Futures Pass — a pass designed to enable zero trading fees for eligible futures trades during its validity period.

With this model, KoinBX aims to challenge the traditional fee-driven futures trading experience and give active traders a more cost-conscious way to trade.

Futures Trading Meets Zero Trading Fees

For active futures traders, trading fees can quickly add up.

Every entry and exit comes with a cost. As trading frequency and volume increase, those costs can become a meaningful part of a trader's overall trading expense.

KoinBX is taking a different approach.

With the launch of KoinBX Futures, traders will be able to access leveraged futures trading while the KoinBX Futures Pass provides a zero-trading-fee benefit, subject to the applicable pass terms and allowance.

The proposition is simple:

Trade Futures. Make Your Move. Pay Zero in Trading Fees.

Rather than making traders pay a fee on every eligible trade, the Futures Pass is designed around a prepaid subscription model that gives traders a defined trading-fee allowance for the pass period.

That creates a fundamentally different experience for users who trade frequently.

A First-of-Its-Kind Approach to Crypto Trading Fees

KoinBX is positioning the Futures Pass as a first-of-its-kind approach in crypto futures, bringing a subscription-style model to trading fees.

Instead of treating every trade as a separate fee event, KoinBX is creating an ecosystem where traders can subscribe to a pass and trade eligible futures positions with zero trading fees within the applicable allowance.

It is a model inspired by a simple consumer behaviour:

Why pay repeatedly when you can subscribe once and trade with greater fee predictability?

For traders, that can mean greater visibility into trading costs and an opportunity to focus more on strategy rather than transaction fees.

Built for Traders Who Move Fast

Futures trading is about more than simply buying and selling an asset.

Markets can move quickly, opportunities can appear and disappear within minutes, and traders need tools that can keep pace.

KoinBX Futures is being designed to bring together the core elements futures traders expect:

Leverage for futures positions
Long and Short trading
Real-time market data
Advanced trading charts
Multiple futures markets
Fast order execution
Risk-management tools
A dedicated Futures Pass for zero trading fees

The objective is to create a futures experience that feels familiar to experienced traders while remaining accessible to users entering the futures market for the first time.

Long or Short. The Choice Is Yours

One of the defining features of futures trading is the ability to take positions in either direction.

Expecting the market to rise?

Go Long.

Expecting the market to fall?

Go Short.

KoinBX Futures gives traders the flexibility to build strategies around market movements rather than being restricted to a single direction.

With leverage available, traders can also gain exposure to larger positions using a smaller amount of initial capital. However, leverage can amplify both gains and losses, making disciplined risk management essential.

The Bigger Idea Behind the Futures Pass

KoinBX believes the future of crypto trading will not be defined solely by how many assets an exchange lists or how many trading tools it offers.

It will also be defined by how efficiently traders can access those tools.

The Futures Pass represents KoinBX's attempt to rethink one of the most familiar parts of crypto trading: transaction fees.

For an active trader, the difference between paying a fee on every eligible trade and having a zero-fee allowance can become significant over time.

The result is a proposition built around one powerful idea:

More Trading. Less Fee Friction.

August 15: The Futures Arena Opens

On August 15, 2026, KoinBX Futures goes live.

The launch gives traders access to a new segment of the KoinBX platform while introducing a fee model designed to make active futures trading more attractive.

From selecting a market to analysing the chart, choosing leverage, and deciding whether to go Long or Short, the complete futures journey will be available through KoinBX.

And at the centre of the launch will be the Futures Pass.

One Pass. Zero Trading Fees. More Room to Trade.

For traders watching the futures market, August 15 could be a date worth marking.

Because KoinBX isn't just launching Futures.

It's launching a new way to think about the cost of trading Futures.

KoinBX Futures: Make Your Move. Pay Zero.

The countdown to August 15 has begun.

Whether you're looking to explore leveraged markets, build Long and Short strategies, or simply find a more efficient way to manage your trading costs, KoinBX Futures is preparing to open the arena.

Futures trading launches on KoinBX on August 15, 2026.

Get ready. Choose your market. Choose your strategy. Make your move.

KoinBX Futures — Trade More. Pay Zero. Every Month.

Zero trading fee benefits are subject to the applicable KoinBX Futures Pass terms, allowance and eligibility conditions. Futures trading involves significant risk, and leverage can amplify both profits and losses. Traders should understand the risks before trading.

What Happens When a Minor Accident Damages Costly Car Sensors?

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:58:28 +0530

A minor accident may leave only a small dent, but it can still affect the sensors fitted behind bumpers, grilles, mirrors or windscreens. These parts support parking assistance, warning systems and other safety functions.

If a sensor shifts, cracks or loses connection, the car may need detailed inspection, repair, replacement or calibration. Understanding what happens next can help owners handle the repair and insurance process with greater clarity and confidence.

Warning Lights and Features May Stop Working

The car may display a warning message after the accident. Some faults appear only when the feature is used. The vehicle may continue to drive, but drivers should not assume every assistance system works properly.

Parking alerts may stop detecting nearby objects.
A reversing camera may show a blank or unclear image.
Collision warnings may become unavailable or respond incorrectly.
A dashboard message may ask the driver to check the system.

These signs usually mean that the sensor, wiring or mounting position requires inspection.

The Garage Will Check More than the Dent

A technician will inspect the damaged panel and connect diagnostic equipment to the vehicle. This helps identify electronic fault codes that a visual check cannot find. The bumper may need removal to access affected components.

The sensor surface may be cracked or pushed inward.
A mounting bracket may have bent during the impact.
Wiring or connectors may have become loose.
Paint, dirt or panel damage may block the sensor.
Nearby components may also need testing.

The inspection shows whether the part can be refitted or must be replaced.

The Repair Bill May Be Higher

Sensor damage can make a minor accident more expensive because several tasks may be involved. Apart from bodywork, the garage may charge for diagnosis, parts, labour and testing. The amount depends on the vehicle model, damaged component and required procedure.

The bumper may need removal and refitting.
A damaged sensor or camera may require replacement.
Brackets, clips or wiring may need separate repairs.
Scanning and calibration may be charged separately.
Painting must not affect sensor operation.

An itemised estimate explains why a small impact has produced a larger repair bill.

The New Part May Need Calibration

Installing a replacement camera or radar unit may not complete the repair. Some systems require calibration so they measure distance, recognise road markings and detect surrounding vehicles correctly. A small change in position can affect readings.

Calibration may be completed inside an equipped workshop.
Some vehicles require a controlled road test.
Manufacturer instructions determine the correct method.
A final scan should confirm that faults are cleared.
The garage should provide a testing record.

Without calibration, the system may appear active but give inaccurate information.

The Insurer Will Assess the Damage

With suitable own damage protection under new car insurance, accidental sensor damage may form part of a claim, subject to policy terms and assessment. The insurer may review photographs, the garage estimate, survey findings and damaged parts before approving repairs.

Inform the insurer before major repairs begin.
Photograph the impact area and the dashboard warning.
Request an itemised estimate for parts, labour and calibration.
Replace components when inspection is required.
Follow the stated cashless or reimbursement process.

Deductibles, depreciation and other conditions may affect the approved amount.

Liability Only Cover Works Differently

Third party car insurance addresses legal liability for injury, death or property damage caused to another person. It does not pay for sensors fitted in the policyholder’s own car. Such repairs require own damage cover.

Damage to another vehicle’s sensors may be entered as a third-party claim.
Drivers should exchange registration and insurance details.
Photographs can record the impact and damaged areas.
The claim route depends on the circumstances and available cover.

Checking the policy type prevents confusion when the repair estimate arrives.

Final Thoughts

A minor accident can damage costly car sensors even when the visible impact seems small. The vehicle may need diagnosis, replacement, calibration and testing. Inform the insurer before repairs, keep all related documents and ensure every affected feature works properly before driving. Claim approval remains subject to policy terms and applicable deductions. Proper checks can prevent unresolved faults from affecting future journeys.

How Lighting Influences Interior Design More Than Furniture

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:12:03 +0530

For a long time, I believed furniture was the most important part of interior design. Whenever I wanted to improve a room, I looked at sofas, tables, cabinets and chairs first. I assumed that better furniture would automatically make the space look more stylish.

That belief changed when I moved a lamp in my living room and switched on a warmer light one evening. The furniture was exactly the same, but the entire room suddenly felt softer, more inviting and better planned. That small moment made me realise that lighting does more than help us see. It shapes how we experience every colour, texture and object around us.

My Furniture-First Mistake

When I first started decorating my living room, I spent most of my time choosing furniture. I selected a comfortable sofa, added a centre table and placed a cabinet against the wall. Each piece looked good on its own, but the room still felt flat.

During the day, natural light helped the space look pleasant. After sunset, however, one bright ceiling light washed out the colours and created harsh shadows. The sofa looked dull, the wall decor disappeared, and the corners felt disconnected from the rest of the room.

That was when I understood that furniture cannot create the desired effect if the lighting does not support it. Even an attractive room can feel unfinished when every area receives the same intensity and colour of light.

I began looking at lighting as part of the design itself rather than a final utility added after the room was furnished.

Light Changed the Mood

My first improvement was simple. I replaced the idea of using one strong light with a combination of general, focused and ambient lighting.

The main ceiling light continued to provide basic illumination, but I added softer light near the seating area. I also used Wipro consumer light's decorative lights to bring warmth to a corner that earlier looked empty after dark.

The result surprised me. The room did not just become brighter. It became more comfortable. The same sofa appeared richer, the cushions looked more colourful, and the wall finish gained depth.

I also noticed how the colour of light changed my mood. Bright white light helped when I was cleaning or organising the room. Warmer light felt more suitable when I was relaxing, talking with family or watching television.

Furniture gave the room its function, but lighting gave it its personality.

Hidden Details Came Alive

The next area I worked on was a simple display unit. It had books, photographs and a few objects collected during family trips. During the day, the arrangement looked attractive, but at night, it blended into the wall.

I installed LED strip lights along the inner edge of the shelves. Once the strips were switched on, every object became more visible without making the unit look overly bright.

The light also created shadows behind the objects, making the display appear deeper and more layered. Nothing on the shelf had changed, yet it looked like a newly designed feature.

I later used Wipro Consumer Lighting LED strip lighting around a recessed section and below a cabinet. These lights helped define shapes that were already present in the room but had previously gone unnoticed.

Small Rooms Felt Larger

I used to think that making a compact room feel spacious required smaller furniture. That approach helped, but lighting created a more noticeable change.

In a narrow room, I directed light towards the walls instead of allowing all the brightness to fall only in the centre. The reflected light reduced dark corners and made the boundaries of the room feel less restrictive.

I also added light near the curtains and along a vertical design feature. Drawing the eye upwards made the ceiling appear higher. The room had the same measurements and the same furniture, but it no longer felt as closed.

Every Material Looked Different

Lighting also changed the way I noticed materials. Wood appeared warmer under soft light, while metal surfaces reflected sharper light more clearly. Textured walls gained character when the light reached them from an angle.

I had a wall finish that looked ordinary under the main ceiling light. When I placed focused lighting near it, the surface began showing subtle variations that I had never noticed before.

The same happened with fabrics. Curtains, rugs and cushions looked more detailed when the room had layered lighting instead of one flat source.

This made me more careful while choosing LED lights for home decoration. I no longer selected them only according to wattage or appearance. I considered what they would illuminate, where shadows would fall and how the light colour would affect the nearby materials.

Design Became More Flexible

Furniture usually stays in one place for long periods. Lighting, however, can change the character of a room within seconds.

In my living room, I could use bright illumination for reading, softer settings for conversations and accent lighting during festive gatherings. I did not need to rearrange the sofa or purchase new decor every time I wanted a different atmosphere.

Wipro Consumer Lighting options made it possible to adjust the room according to the moment. This flexibility became especially valuable because the same space served multiple purposes throughout the day.

The Element That Completes Every Room

My home still needs furniture. It provides comfort, storage and structure. However, my experience has shown me that furniture alone cannot decide how a room feels.

Lighting can make a simple chair appear elegant, turn an ordinary wall into a focal point and bring attention to details that would otherwise remain hidden. LED strip lights, decorative lights, and carefully selected LED lights for home decoration helped me see my interiors differently without replacing things I already owned.

The Street’s Full U-Turn on Paytm: Why Every Major Brokerage Is Now A Believer

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 17:06:51 +0530

For most of the past decade, the conversation around Paytm circled the same question. Nobody doubted the reach. The company had built India's largest merchant networks, and its brand had become so fused with mobile payments that "Paytm Karo" turned into everyday shorthand for paying by phone. What analysts kept asking was when all that reach would turn into steady profit. After Paytm's Q1 FY27 results, that question has been settled, and the answer has moved the Street from doubt to conviction.

Every major brokerage tracking One 97 Communications, the parent of Paytm, raised its price target after the results, and the debate shifted from whether the company can make money to how quickly the profit can grow. The June quarter delivered on every line. Operating revenue rose 28% year on year to ₹2,448 crore, EBITDA came in at a record ₹203 crore, up 182%, and profit after tax reached ₹220 crore, up 79%. On a comparable basis, excluding a Payments Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF) incentive that ran off at the end of December 2025, EBITDA was up almost tenfold and profit after tax more than tripled. According to the company, revenue is now growing significantly faster than indirect expenses, and that gap is what powers the margin expansion.

Then came a second trigger. In early August, Parliament passed an amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act that opens the door for a merchant discount rate, or MDR, to eventually apply on larger UPI merchant payments. The details of rate and eligibility are still to be settled by the NPCI-led steering committee, and small merchants and consumers are expected to stay free.

The brokerage notes captured how sharply sentiment has turned. Bernstein, arguing the market was now pricing in MDR, raised its target to ₹2,200, the highest on the Street, and kept its Outperform rating, having earlier called the company’s financial services business the star performer. JM Financial, in a note titled UPI monetisation in sight, lifted its target to ₹1,950, saying MDR converts a structurally zero revenue pool into monetisable volume at near full flow through. BofA, calling the shift a paradigm shift and a path to UPI monetisation, moved to ₹1,775 and named Paytm the key beneficiary in its coverage.

Earlier, Investec, describing the quarter as delivering strongly on non linear EBITDA expansion, had set a target of ₹1,720, while Emkay and YES Securities each moved to ₹1,700, the latter arguing the company's structural EBITDA margin sits well above the 15 to 20% band management has guided to. Jefferies lifted its target to ₹1,600, called the quarter one of strong growth momentum and named Paytm among its preferred fintechs. Goldman Sachs and Citi both moved their targets higher.

The confidence rests on how broad the growth has become. Merchant GMV rose 31% to ₹7.1 lakh crore, faster than the two quarters before it. Distribution of financial services revenue grew 45% to ₹814 crore. And on the consumer side, Paytm's UPI payment value grew 45%, roughly 2.2 times the pace of the wider market, meaning the company is taking share rather than simply riding the industry.

Behind those numbers is founder and chief executive Vijay Shekhar Sharma, the pioneer of the mobile payments, QR and Soundbox revolution in India. On the earnings call, he described the quarter as the point where a long build finally paid off. The company now has, he said, cash in hand and the aggression in mind and body to press its advantage. He pointed to two areas he is personally focused on. Wealth, spanning equity brokerage and mutual fund distribution is a very bright spot and, in his words, the next driver of consumer monetisation. The second is the consumer app. Asked what is fuelling the consumer surge, he credited the product rather than any single financial service. "New customers in terms of Gen-Z are coming and we sort of have the fancy of Gen-Z customers as a customer base now," he said.

The layer Sharma returned to most often was artificial intelligence, which he framed as the next chapter after payments. Paytm has built its own India focused language model, optimising a large model down for Indian languages and running it on its own machines, cutting the cost of the call centre and outside vendors. This, he told analysts, is magic, and having built it for itself, the company intends to sell it to outside businesses too.

So the U-turn is complete. Paytm is now profitable, gaining market share and earning more from the network it built first. With every major brokerage raising its target, the question is no longer whether Paytm can make money. It is how much, and how much more AI can add on top.

How Standardised Loan Documentation Is Reducing Gold Loan Disputes

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:45:54 +0530

Introduction: Documentation has always been a fundamental part of secured lending, but its importance has become even more evident as India's gold loan market continues to expand. Every transaction involving pledged jewellery creates legal, financial, and operational responsibilities for both borrowers and lenders. Loan agreements, valuation reports, collateral receipts, repayment schedules, and disclosure statements collectively establish the framework that governs the lending relationship. When these records are incomplete, inconsistent, or difficult to understand, misunderstandings can arise despite the best intentions of both parties.

Recognising this, financial institutions have steadily moved towards more standardised documentation practices. The objective extends beyond administrative efficiency. Standardisation helps ensure that borrowers receive consistent information, lenders maintain stronger operational controls, and regulators can monitor compliance more effectively. Supported by the Reserve Bank of India's strengthened gold lending framework introduced in April 2026, improved documentation is becoming an important contributor to transparency, dispute reduction, and customer confidence. Rather than viewing paperwork as a procedural formality, the industry increasingly recognises it as a critical component of responsible gold loan.

Why Does Standardised Documentation Matter in Gold Lending?

Gold loans involve valuable collateral that often carries both financial and emotional significance. As a result, every stage of the lending process requires accurate documentation to protect the interests of both borrowers and financial institutions. Standardised records create a common understanding of loan terms, collateral details, repayment obligations, and operational procedures, reducing the likelihood of confusion later in the loan lifecycle.

A typical Gold Loan transaction generally includes documentation relating to borrower identity, Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance, collateral valuation, pledged jewellery description, sanctioned loan amount, repayment structure, applicable charges, and redemption conditions. When these records follow consistent formats and clearly communicate essential information, borrowers are better positioned to understand their obligations before accepting the loan.

For example, a detailed pledge receipt describing the weight, purity, and identifying characteristics of pledged jewellery can reduce uncertainty when the ornaments are redeemed after loan closure. Similarly, clearly documented repayment schedules help borrowers understand due dates and payment obligations without relying on verbal explanations alone.

Standardisation therefore supports transparency by ensuring that critical information remains consistent regardless of branch location or customer profile.

How Does Better Documentation Help Reduce Disputes?

Many disputes within financial services arise not because of deliberate misconduct but because expectations differ between borrowers and institutions. In secured lending, misunderstandings may relate to valuation methods, applicable charges, repayment terms, collateral handling, or redemption procedures. Comprehensive documentation helps minimise these differences by establishing a clear written record that both parties can reference throughout the loan tenure.

Improved documentation generally strengthens dispute prevention in several ways:

Clearly defined loan terms
Transparent disclosure of applicable charges
Detailed collateral descriptions
Written repayment schedules
Documented valuation methodology
Standardised borrower acknowledgements
Consistent record retention

Consider a borrower who later questions the valuation of pledged jewellery. If the valuation process, purity assessment, collateral description, and acknowledged loan agreement have all been documented clearly, both the borrower and the lender can review the same records rather than relying on differing recollections.

Similarly, disputes regarding repayment obligations often decrease when payment schedules, interest calculations, and loan tenure are presented through standardised formats using clear language. Documentation cannot eliminate every disagreement, but it frequently provides an objective reference point that supports quicker resolution.

This emphasis on written transparency benefits both operational efficiency and customer confidence.

What Role Do Regulation and Technology Play?

The movement toward standardised documentation has accelerated alongside regulatory reforms and digital transformation within India's financial sector. The Reserve Bank of India's strengthened gold lending framework introduced in April 2026 reinforces borrower disclosures, prudent collateral management, standardized valuation practices, grievance redressal mechanisms, and operational governance. These measures encourage institutions to maintain consistent documentation throughout the lending process.

One area receiving greater attention is pricing transparency. Borrowers evaluating a Gold Loan Interest Rate increasingly expect clear disclosure of interest calculations, processing charges, repayment structures, penal charges where applicable, and other costs associated with the loan. Standardised documentation ensures that such information is presented consistently and in accordance with regulatory expectations.

Technology is also improving documentation quality. Digital document management systems, electronic acknowledgements, centralized record storage, automated workflow controls, and secure archival systems reduce the possibility of incomplete records while improving retrieval during customer servicing or audits.

These digital capabilities also strengthen operational consistency across branch networks by ensuring that approved document formats, mandatory disclosures, and compliance requirements remain uniform regardless of transaction location. Consequently, documentation is becoming both more accurate and more accessible throughout the loan lifecycle.

How Will Documentation Continue Evolving?

As India's financial services industry becomes increasingly digital, documentation is expected to evolve beyond paper records while continuing to preserve legal certainty and customer protection. Electronic document management, secure digital signatures, centralized audit trails, and automated compliance verification are gradually becoming part of everyday lending operations.

Future developments may include greater integration between document management systems, collateral records, customer servicing platforms, and regulatory reporting tools. Such integration could improve operational efficiency while enabling institutions to identify inconsistencies earlier and strengthen internal governance.

However, technological advancement alone will not reduce disputes unless documentation remains understandable for borrowers. Financial institutions are therefore placing greater emphasis on plain-language communication, simplified disclosure formats, multilingual documentation, and customer education. Borrowers are increasingly encouraged to review loan agreements carefully, ask questions where clarification is required, and retain copies of important documents throughout the loan tenure.

These improvements reflect a broader shift in lending philosophy. Rather than treating documentation as a compliance exercise alone, institutions increasingly recognise it as an important component of customer experience, operational transparency, and long-term trust.

As regulatory expectations continue evolving, documentation quality is likely to remain a central performance indicator across the asset-backed lending industry.

Conclusion

Standardised documentation is playing an increasingly important role in strengthening India's gold lending ecosystem. By creating consistent records covering collateral valuation, repayment obligations, borrower disclosures, and operational procedures, financial institutions are reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings while improving transparency throughout the loan lifecycle.

Supported by the Reserve Bank of India's enhanced regulatory framework, improved documentation practices also contribute to stronger governance, better customer protection, and more effective grievance resolution. Borrowers benefit from clearer information, while lenders gain greater operational consistency and audit readiness.

The continued evolution of Gold Loan products will depend not only on digital innovation and operational efficiency but also on the quality of communication between borrowers and institutions. Comprehensive documentation remains one of the most effective ways to establish that shared understanding. As technology and regulation continue shaping the future of gold loan, clear, standardised, and transparent documentation is likely to remain one of the strongest foundations for responsible lending and sustained customer confidence.

5 Compelling Reasons to Choose a Term Insurance Plan with Return of Premium Over a Standard Term Policy

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 21:45:19 +0530

Somewhere in every term insurance conversation, the same objection surfaces.

What happens to all the premiums if nothing goes wrong?

With a standard term policy, the answer is straightforward and uncomfortable for many people. Nothing comes back. The cover existed, the family was protected throughout the term, and if the insured survived the full tenure, the premiums paid were gone. The protection was real, but nothing tangible remains at the end.

A term insurance plan with return of premium addresses exactly this concern. If the insured survives the policy term, all the premiums paid are returned at maturity. The family was protected throughout, and the surviving insured gets their money back.

Here are five genuine reasons this structure deserves serious consideration alongside a standard term policy.

1. The Psychological Barrier to Buying Term Insurance Gets Removed

This is not a trivial reason. It is actually one of the most practically significant ones.

A very large proportion of Indian households that know they need term insurance keep delaying the purchase. The objection is always some version of the same thing. Paying premiums for 25 years and getting nothing back if everything goes well feels like a bad deal.

That perception, whether financially rational or not, keeps families underinsured for years. The delay in buying a standard term policy while searching for something that feels like better value costs real money because premiums increase with age, and any health conditions that develop during the delay period complicate underwriting.

A term insurance plan with return of premium removes this barrier entirely. The premium comes back if the insured survives. There is nothing to feel conflicted about. The protection gets purchased earlier, the family is covered sooner, and the premium is locked in at a younger age.

2. It Functions as a Long-Term Forced Savings Mechanism

A term policy running for 25 or 30 years involves regular premium payments across a long period. In a standard term policy, those payments produce protection and nothing else.

In a term insurance plan with return of premium, those same payments produce protection throughout the term and a lump sum at maturity if the insured survives. The maturity amount equals the total premiums paid, sometimes more, depending on the specific plan structure.

For someone who struggles to maintain long-term savings discipline, this structure keeps a meaningful sum building in the background automatically. The premium commitment enforces the discipline. The maturity amount arrives at a point in life, typically close to retirement age, when a lump sum is genuinely useful.

This does not make a return-of-premium plan a substitute for dedicated investment instruments. The effective return on premiums paid is modest compared to equity over the same period. But as a secondary forced savings mechanism alongside other investments, it provides a backstop that a standard term policy cannot.

3. The Cover is Effectively Free Over the Full Term

This argument requires looking at the structure across the full tenure rather than year by year.

A standard term policy costs X rupees annually for 25 years. Total premium paid is 25X. At the end, the insured has nothing.

A term insurance plan with return of premium costs more annually, perhaps 1.5X to 2X for the same cover and tenure. But at the end of 25 years, the full premium amount paid is returned. The net cost of the cover across the full term, if the insured survives, is effectively the opportunity cost of the additional premium amount rather than the entire premium.

Whether this makes the return of premium structure more or less expensive than a standard term policy depends on what the premium difference would have earned if invested separately over the same period. For someone who would genuinely have invested the difference in higher-return instruments, this calculation may favour the standard term policy. For someone who would not have invested the difference reliably, the return of premium structure delivers more certain value.

4. It Provides a Defined Maturity Benefit at a Predictable Life Stage

A standard term policy has no maturity benefit. A term insurance plan with return of premium has a defined maturity date and a known return amount.

For goal-based financial planning, this predictability has value. A policy maturing at age 60 with all premiums returned provides a known corpus arriving at a known point in the retirement planning timeline. This predictability allows the maturity amount to be factored into the retirement corpus calculation with certainty rather than depending on market performance.

Unlike market-linked instruments, where the maturity amount is an estimate based on assumed returns, the maturity amount from a return of premium plan is certain. In a retirement plan that needs both growth and certainty, this guaranteed component serves a specific purpose.

5. The Effective Protection Cost is Recovered at Maturity

This reason is closely related to the previous one but worth stating separately.

With a standard term policy, the cost of protection over the full term is the sum of all premiums paid. That cost is certain and non-recoverable at the end.

With a term insurance plan with return of premium, the cost of protection over the full term, if the insured survives, is the lost investment return on the additional premium paid compared to a standard term policy. The base premium amount itself comes back.

For many families, this structural difference makes the return-of-premium variant feel more aligned with how they think about spending money. The protection exists throughout. The financial exposure at the end of the term is limited to the opportunity cost of the premium differential rather than the full premium paid.

Whether this justifies the higher annual premium depends on individual financial circumstances, investment discipline and how the additional annual cost is evaluated against the alternative uses for that money.