CAGR Insights – 30 May 2025

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

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Chart Ki Baat

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Gyaan Ki Baat 

Diversification Isn’t Just a Numbers Game

Owning ten mutual funds doesn’t mean you’re diversified. It just means you own ten mutual funds. The real question is—what’s inside them?

Sameer, like many educated investors, thought his portfolio was balanced: no direct stocks, no rash bets, just a clean selection of top-rated mutual funds. But a lazy weekend audit opened his eyes. The same five stocks—HDFC Bank, Reliance, ICICI Bank—popped up across multiple schemes. Different wrappers, same contents.

What looked like diversification was duplication.

Here’s the kicker: mutual funds don’t operate in isolation. Many fund managers chase the same market darlings. So, when you spread your money across schemes, you might just be stacking more of the same risk.

And it’s not just about domestic overlap. Some funds sneak in international exposure too—without you even realising. One Sameer-owned fund had Swiss chocolates; another had American chips—tech chips, not potato ones.

Lesson? You can’t diversify by delegation alone. You must look under the hood. Read the fund factsheet. Study the top holdings. Understand sector and geographical exposure.

Because real diversification isn’t owning more—it’s owning different.

So don’t be dazzled by variety in fund names. Be alert to similarity in their guts. The portfolio that feels safe might actually be fragile.

Stop confusing volume with wisdom.

Start investing with your eyes open.

Personal Finance

  • When will salaried employees get Form 16 to file income tax return for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)? Form 16, a crucial TDS certificate for salaried employees, must be issued by June 15 if tax was deducted. While not mandatory without TDS, it eases ITR filing. Employees can’t download it—only employers can issue it via the TRACES portal.Read here

  • Why has insurer denied death claim in father’s debit card? Many debit cards offer accidental death insurance, but claims are denied if no qualifying purchase transaction occurred within 90 days. ATM withdrawals and UPI don’t count. Always check terms—lack of clarity often leads to unfortunate claim rejections.Read here

  • How the proposed 3.5% US remittance tax could hit savings for NRIs, visa holders: A new 3.5% US excise tax on remittances by non-citizens could begin January 2026, impacting H-1B, F-1, and green card holders. Each transfer abroad may cost more, urging immigrants to rethink financial strategies and remittance timing. Read here

Investing

  • SEBI notifies new F&O rules: What investors need to know about new derivative trading limits: SEBI revamps F&O rules, linking position limits to stock free float and delivery volume to curb frequent bans. Index option limits are raised, intra-day monitoring begins, and a pre-open session is introduced to boost transparency and price discovery. Read here

  • Why You Don’t Lose Money in Bonds (If You Wait Long Enough): Bond losses are often misunderstood. If held to maturity, individual bonds guarantee nominal returns despite interest rate changes. Bond funds, however, reset duration daily, exposing investors to ongoing rate risk. For safety, choose short-duration bonds—or simply wait it out. Read here

Economy & Sector

  • India is set to be the world’s fourth-largest economy — but sustained growth will warrant more reforms: India is set to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, driven by a young population, rising consumption, and growing tech and manufacturing sectors. However, challenges like infrastructure gaps, slow reforms, and income disparity must be addressed to sustain long-term growth. Read here

  • Finance Ministry instructs RBI to ensure gold loan rules do not adversely impact small borrowers: The Ministry of Finance urged RBI to ensure new gold loan rules don’t hurt small borrowers, recommending implementation from January 2026. It suggested excluding loans below ₹2 lakh and addressed concerns about loan-to-value limits and borrower documentation, following Tamil Nadu CM’s objections. Read here

  • ​India-US trade deal nears the finish line—final talks are set for early June: India and the US aim to finalize a bilateral trade deal by late June, addressing tariffs and strategic interests. Negotiations focus on complementary strengths, opening sectors, and boosting trade amid shifting global dynamics, with India poised as a key market and producer. Read here

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Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.


• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

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That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.

CAGR Insights – 23 May 2025

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

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Chart Ki Baat

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Gyaan Ki Baat 

Why Circuit Breakers Matter to You as an Investor

Ever seen the stock market go into a freefall—or a sudden rally—and wonder why trading suddenly stops? That’s a circuit breaker in action. Much like a fuse that protects your home’s wiring during overloads, stock market circuit breakers pause trading when indices or stocks move beyond set limits.

Why? To cool down market panic, allow time for rational decision-making, and prevent knee-jerk reactions from spreading chaos.

Introduced after the 1987 crash, these halts now form a crucial layer of investor protection in markets worldwide, including India. But they’re not perfect—they can trigger more panic (the “magnet effect”) or delay true price discovery.

Still, understanding them helps you stay grounded. So, the next time trading halts, don’t panic—take it as a reminder to stay calm, assess your portfolio, and think long term.

Markets recover. Rationality always wins in the end.

Personal Finance

  • 5 timeless money lessons from India’s Panchatantra Stories: What if your next money lesson came from a monkey, a prince, or a humble tortoise? Ancient Indian stories are not just about morals — they are treasure troves of timeless financial wisdom. From saving smart to avoiding greed, here’s how age-old tales can guide your money moves today. Read here

  • Financial literacy for children: How small initiatives can help them grow into responsible adults: The RBI has revised guidelines allowing minors over 10 to independently operate savings accounts, promoting financial literacy. This initiative aims to equip young individuals with essential skills for managing money and accessing credit responsibly. Read here

  • You Can’t Put a Price on Mental Freedom: Active investing doesn’t just risk your money—it hijacks your mind. You check stocks, chase performance, and tie your ego to every tick. For what? The real return isn’t financial—it’s freedom. Reclaim your time, your focus, your life. That’s priceless. Read here

Investing

  • Helping the Gen Z invest: With Gen Z stepping into the workforce and gaining financial independence, their investment choices are reshaping the market. Companies are paying close attention. So, what are these new-age investors looking for? And why are SIPs and ELSS smart starting points on their wealth journey? Let’s break it down. Read here

  • Are too many index funds a bad investment strategy? More index funds ≠ more diversification. Many track the same stocks, leading to repetition, not variety. True diversification comes from choosing funds with distinct market exposures. Always check overlap, segment focus, and risk-return profile before adding another index fund. Read here

Economy & Sector

  • Trump’s tax on remittances won’t have big impact on Indian economy: The proposed US 5% tax on remittances is unlikely to significantly impact the Indian economy, though it may strain the diaspora and weaken the Rupee slightly. The actual effect depends on the tax’s fine print and potential offsets, with possible adjustments in remittance behaviour and fintech innovations to mitigate costs. Read here

  • GDP ≠ Development: Analyst points to 12x income gap as India overtakes Japan: India is now the world’s third-largest economy, overtaking Japan—but GDP isn’t everything. With per capita income 12x lower than Japan’s, India’s size masks deep developmental gaps in infrastructure, innovation, and quality of life. Scale ≠ prosperity. Read here

  • ​Indian Economy Exhibiting Resilience Despite Uncertainties: RBI India’s economy shows resilience amid global trade tensions, says RBI. Strong industrial momentum, easing inflation, robust agriculture forecasts, and stable macro fundamentals make India a standout for investors—especially as global markets face uncertainty and commodity volatility looms. Read here

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Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.


• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

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That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.

CAGR Insights – 16 May 2025

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

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Chart Ki Baat

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Gyaan Ki Baat 

Common Sense is Your Greatest Financial Asset

In the noisy world of finance, we often forget that the smartest investment strategy isn’t buried in jargon or complex algorithms — it’s good old common sense.

Think about it — investing isn’t rocket science. It’s about using simple principles like saving regularly, staying invested, avoiding unnecessary costs, and letting compounding do its magic. But somewhere along the way, the financial industry decided that if investing looks complicated, you’ll pay more for advice. So, they built layers of categories, ratings, schemes, and strategies — enough to make even seasoned investors feel lost.

The truth? Complexity benefits the seller, not the investor.

That’s why the most successful investors we’ve seen over the years aren’t chasing hot tips or exotic strategies. They do a few things consistently well:

  1. They invest regularly.
  2. They stick to their plan.
  3. They don’t panic during market falls.
  4. They focus on goals, not gossip.

And here’s the kicker — they apply these principles to their entire family’s finances, not just their own. Because in India, money is a family affair. Your investments are connected to your spouse’s dreams, your kids’ future, and your parents’ security.

So why use platforms that treat you like an isolated account? Financial tools should reflect how Indian families actually manage money — together.

The bottom line? You don’t need to decode finance. You just need to listen to your instincts.

If it sounds too complex, too salesy, or too urgent — pause. Ask yourself, Does this make common sense?

Because when it comes to wealth creation, common sense isn’t just enough — it’s everything.

Personal Finance

  • Why Indian women and finance are not a match made in heaven: In 2016, a finance session with powerful women revealed a surprising truth—they felt lost discussing money. This sparked a mission to help women reclaim financial confidence. Still feel unsure about money. You’re not alone read this before your next paycheck.Read here

  • In nominee vs legal heir who gets the precedence? Court says inheritance: What happens if there’s no Will? The Allahabad HC ruled that insurance nominees aren’t owners—just trustees. Legal heirs prevail under succession law. A must-read if you think your nominee will automatically inherit your insurance payout—you could be wrong. Read here

  • Has the American Dream Become Unattainable? Is the American Dream Dead—or Just Evolved? Owning a home, doing better than your parents—it’s getting harder. But is the Dream really gone, or just different now? This deep dive challenges everything you think you know. Click to see how the dream is being redefined. Read here

Investing

  • Gold is booming – but investors lured in by the hype could lose out, warn experts: Gold prices have surged to record highs due to geopolitical tensions, inflation fears, and central bank buying. While demand remains strong, experts warn of a potential bubble. Investors are urged to diversify and avoid relying solely on gold for returns. Read here

  • Riding the storm: Market crashes test investor nerves, but those who stay the course often win big. Discover why panic selling costs more than you think—and how five simple strategies can protect your wealth. One read could change your investing journey. Read here

  • Master smart investing with 7 timeless lessons from ‘A Random Walk Down Wall Street’ by Burton Malkiel: Explore 7 enduring investment principles from Burton Malkiel’s ‘A Random Walk Down Wall Street’, offering smart insights on market efficiency, diversification, and compounding to help modern investors build steady, long-term financial success. Read here

Economy & Sector

  • Why education loans matter more than ever in India’s growing economy: As education costs soar, student loans in India surge, public sector disbursals hit Rs 28,699 crore in 2023-24. Explore key trends, rising demand, and how loans are reshaping access to higher education and economic growth. Read here

  • India’s retail inflation eases to six-year low of 3.16% in April 2025 over cooling food prices: Retail inflation fell to 3.16% in April 2025—its lowest in nearly six years—driven by falling food prices. With inflation well below the RBI’s 4% target, analysts expect a 25-bps rate cut in the June policy review. Read here

  • ​India’s economy is resilient to weather war-like crises: India’s economy remains resilient post a brief conflict with Pakistan, says CII chief Sanjiv Puri. While 6.5% growth is likely in FY26, sustained tensions may affect investment flows. Can India still aim for 8% growth?Read here

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Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.


• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

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That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.

CAGR Insights – 9 May 2025

CAGR Insights is a weekly newsletter full of insights from around the world of the web.

Image

Chart Ki Baat

Image

Gyaan Ki Baat 

War Times & Wallet Sense          

When the world shakes, your money shouldn’t.

With India and Pakistan locked in a tense conflict, markets react faster than missiles. Panic is natural—but smart investors don’t panic, they prepare. Here’s your financial war plan.

  1. Don’t make knee-jerk moves: Markets hate uncertainty. But selling in fear usually means locking in losses. Stay invested if your goals are long-term.
  2. Review your emergency fund: Now’s the time to ensure you have 6–12 months of expenses parked safely. Wars can trigger job losses or economic slowdowns.
  3. Diversify beyond borders: If you’ve only invested in Indian assets, consider global exposure. A little diversification can act like a financial bulletproof vest.
  4. Avoid big-ticket expenses: Postpone that car upgrade or luxury purchase. Liquidity is king during uncertain times.
  5. Don’t stop your SIPs: Systematic investments are built for volatility. You’re buying more units at lower prices—thank the market later!

Remember: Wars may shake headlines, but smart money stays calm, calculated, and committed.

Personal Finance

  • The 10 Best Ways the Middle Class Can Build Wealth That Actually Work: Want to know how middle-class families build wealth? Discover 10 proven strategies—from smart investing to income streams—that can transform your financial future. Start your journey to financial freedom now! Read here
  • Operation Sindoor: Should mutual fund investors brace for impact or stay the course? Despite current market jitters due to Operation Sindoor, historical trends show that India’s markets recover post-conflict. Mutual fund investors should continue their SIPs, avoid emotional decisions, and consider strategic investments to capitalize on market fluctuations over the long term. Read here
  • Volatile markets? Here’s how to make your losses work and save taxes for you: Did you know a recent tax tribunal ruling could save you thousands in capital gains tax this year? Here’s how savvy investors are using short-term losses to their advantage. Read here

Investing

  • Borrowing From Your Future Can Cost You Everything: Why borrowing from your future self might be the most dangerous financial move you can make, or if you’re aiming for something curiosity driven. This one flawed assumption ruins both your saving and investing plans—here’s how. Read here
  • Will this adage hold true for the Indian equity market in May 2025: With geopolitical tensions intensifying and their repercussions on economic growth, and corporate earnings, will the adage, “Sell in May and go away” hold true?Read here

Economy & Sector

  • UK trade deal to benefit India’s services, labour-intensive sectors: The India–UK FTA boosts exports in textiles, engineering, and IT services with duty-free access. Key sectors benefit while sensitive imports stay protected. No major immigration or carbon tax concessions. Find out which industries stand to gain the most. Read here
  • IMF’s April Outlook projects India to become fourth largest in 2025: India is poised to surpass Japan with a projected GDP of $4.19 trillion, says IMF. As global rankings shift, discover how India’s economic rise is reshaping the global order. Read here
  • Will rising Indo-Pak tensions dent foreign investment inflows to India? Despite recent military action, analysts see minimal impact on Indian markets due to strong domestic fundamentals, limited trade with Pakistan, and past resilience. Will India’s booming economy continue to defy geopolitical shocks? Read here

Check out CAGRwealth smallcase portfolios

Our smallcase portfolios are ranking well in the smallcase universe in terms of 1-year returns.


• CFF (launched in June 2022) – Ranked 1st amongst smallcase with medium volatility.

• CVM (launched in May 2022) – Ranked among Top 20 across the Momentum smallcase universe.

Do check it out here

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That’s it from our side. Have a great weekend ahead!

If you have any feedback that you would like to share, simply reply to this email.

The content of this newsletter is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction. The content is distributed for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any security or other investment or undertake any investment strategy. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or results obtained from any information outlined in this newsletter unless mentioned explicitly. The writer may have positions in and may, from time to time, make purchases or sales of the securities or other investments discussed or evaluated in this newsletter.