Personal finance, explained with real numbers
Short, honest guides to the money decisions Indians face — each one backed by a calculator you can use with your own numbers.
Is No-Cost EMI Really Free? The Hidden Costs Explained
No-cost EMI isn't always free. Here's how 0% EMI works in India, the GST on interest and processing fees you pay, and when it's actually worth it.
6 min read
Old vs New Tax Regime for FY 2026-27: Which Is Better for You?
A clear comparison of the old and new tax regimes for FY 2026-27, with break-even deductions by salary and worked examples, so you can pick the cheaper one.
8 min read
Marginal Relief Above ₹12 Lakh: How It Saves You Tax
Earning just over ₹12 lakh? Marginal relief caps your tax at the extra income above ₹12 lakh. See how it works with examples for FY 2026-27.
4 min read
SIP vs Lumpsum: Which Is Better for Mutual Funds?
SIP or lumpsum? Compare returns, risk and timing with worked examples, and learn when each one makes sense for Indian mutual fund investors.
6 min read
How Much Money Do You Need to Retire Early in India?
Work out your FIRE number for India: withdrawal rates, inflation, real returns and how your savings rate decides how many years you need to work.
7 min read
The Credit Card Minimum Due Trap: What It Really Costs
Paying only the minimum due on an Indian credit card can take decades and cost several times the original balance. See the numbers and how to get out.
5 min read
PPF vs FD: Which Gives You More After Tax?
PPF at 7.1% tax-free vs a taxable bank FD: a 15-year, after-tax comparison for each tax slab, plus liquidity, safety and when to pick each.
5 min read