
Fremont Sees Highest Rise in Credit Card Delinquency Among Major US Cities
Fremont, California, long celebrated as one of the happiest cities in America, now finds itself topping a far less cheerful list. The city has been identified as having the most significant increase in credit card delinquency among the 100 largest cities in the United States. According to recent data compiled from the first quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2025, the rate of credit card delinquencies in Fremont has risen nearly 29%, putting it at the top of the national rankings for ris
Fremont Sees Highest Rise in Credit Card Delinquency Among Major US Cities
Fremont, California, long celebrated as one of the happiest cities in America, now finds itself topping a far less cheerful list. The city has been identified as having the most significant increase in credit card delinquency among the 100 largest cities in the United States. According to recent data compiled from the first quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2025, the rate of credit card delinquencies in Fremont has risen nearly 29%, putting it at the top of the national rankings for ris

How to Plan for Retirement Without Children: Key Strategies
In recent years, more and more individuals in India are choosing to remain child-free or find themselves without direct heirs, raising important questions about retirement planning. For those without children to lean on, preparing for the later years of life becomes about more than just saving money it’s about securing independence, comfort, and care. Financial experts, including Ajay Kumar Yadav, Group CEO and
How to Plan for Retirement Without Children: Key Strategies
In recent years, more and more individuals in India are choosing to remain child-free or find themselves without direct heirs, raising important questions about retirement planning. For those without children to lean on, preparing for the later years of life becomes about more than just saving money it’s about securing independence, comfort, and care. Financial experts, including Ajay Kumar Yadav, Group CEO and

California proposes first-ever standard for insurance coverage on wildfire smoke damage
California is taking a significant step toward establishing the country’s first official insurance standard for smoke damage, aiming to address a persistent and often overlooked issue affecting wildfire survivors. Every year, wildfires leave behind more than scorched land—they also blanket homes in soot and smoke that can carry toxic substances, even when structures remain standing. Currently, there are no statewide or national guidelines requiring insurers to cover the cost of testi

California proposes first-ever standard for insurance coverage on wildfire smoke damage
California is taking a significant step toward establishing the country’s first official insurance standard for smoke damage, aiming to address a persistent and often overlooked issue affecting wildfire survivors. Every year, wildfires leave behind more than scorched land—they also blanket homes in soot and smoke that can carry toxic substances, even when structures remain standing. Currently, there are no statewide or national guidelines requiring insurers to cover the cost of testi


Why India’s Ultra-Rich Are Turning to Family Offices for Wealth Management
India’s ultra-rich are reshaping the way they manage wealth, transitioning from fragmented portfolios and informal advisors to the more structured approach of family offices. The number of family offices in India has surged from just 45 in 2018 to nearly 300 by 2024, reflecting a shift toward professional, globally-oriented wealth management solutions. This trend is becoming a new gold standard among India’s wealthiest families, who are now leverag
Why India’s Ultra-Rich Are Turning to Family Offices for Wealth Management
India’s ultra-rich are reshaping the way they manage wealth, transitioning from fragmented portfolios and informal advisors to the more structured approach of family offices. The number of family offices in India has surged from just 45 in 2018 to nearly 300 by 2024, reflecting a shift toward professional, globally-oriented wealth management solutions. This trend is becoming a new gold standard among India’s wealthiest families, who are now leverag

Middle Class Dilemma: Look Rich or Be Rich, Says Startup Founder
The middle class, once considered the backbone of society with steady jobs and dreams of homeownership, is now facing a critical dilemma: should they focus on looking rich or becoming rich? Shyam Achuthan, Founder and CEO, highlights the growing divide between those who focus on immediate appearances and those who prioritize long-term financial stability. According to Achuthan, many individuals today are trapped in a
Middle Class Dilemma: Look Rich or Be Rich, Says Startup Founder
The middle class, once considered the backbone of society with steady jobs and dreams of homeownership, is now facing a critical dilemma: should they focus on looking rich or becoming rich? Shyam Achuthan, Founder and CEO, highlights the growing divide between those who focus on immediate appearances and those who prioritize long-term financial stability. According to Achuthan, many individuals today are trapped in a

India’s Most Affordable City for Homebuyers in 2025
Buying a home is more than just a financial decision; it's an emotional one. It’s where memories are built, and dreams take shape. However, for many families, this dream seems distant due to high property prices and financial constraints. Thankfully, in 2025, the dream of homeownership has become more achievable, particularly in Ahmedabad. According to the latest Affordability Index by Knight Frank
India’s Most Affordable City for Homebuyers in 2025
Buying a home is more than just a financial decision; it's an emotional one. It’s where memories are built, and dreams take shape. However, for many families, this dream seems distant due to high property prices and financial constraints. Thankfully, in 2025, the dream of homeownership has become more achievable, particularly in Ahmedabad. According to the latest Affordability Index by Knight Frank

Jewellery vs Gold ETFs: How to Make Money Shine, Not Just Wrists
Gold has always held a revered place in many cultures, especially in India, where it is seen not only as a valuable asset but also as a symbol of tradition, prosperity, and security. However, when it comes to building long-term wealth, is simply owning gold jewellery the best option, or is there a more strategic way to invest in this precious metal? CA Nitin Kaushik, an expert in finance and investment strategies, recently shed light on this dilemma, highlightin
Jewellery vs Gold ETFs: How to Make Money Shine, Not Just Wrists
Gold has always held a revered place in many cultures, especially in India, where it is seen not only as a valuable asset but also as a symbol of tradition, prosperity, and security. However, when it comes to building long-term wealth, is simply owning gold jewellery the best option, or is there a more strategic way to invest in this precious metal? CA Nitin Kaushik, an expert in finance and investment strategies, recently shed light on this dilemma, highlightin

Why Middle-Class Indians Prefer Buying Property in Dubai Over India
Increasingly, middle-class Indian couples are opting to invest in property in Dubai rather than India to build their retirement wealth. A notable trend among Indian buyers in the UAE reveals that many couples, after years of hard work and savings, have managed to purchase two to three properties. These properties offer attractive rental yields of 6-7%, and are financed at an interest rate of just 5%. This financial model provides sustainable assets that genera
Why Middle-Class Indians Prefer Buying Property in Dubai Over India
Increasingly, middle-class Indian couples are opting to invest in property in Dubai rather than India to build their retirement wealth. A notable trend among Indian buyers in the UAE reveals that many couples, after years of hard work and savings, have managed to purchase two to three properties. These properties offer attractive rental yields of 6-7%, and are financed at an interest rate of just 5%. This financial model provides sustainable assets that genera

How to Retire at 40: Savings, Planning & Financial Tips
Retiring at 40 has become an exciting goal for many young professionals seeking freedom from traditional work life. While the idea of stopping work just when others are reaching their career peaks sounds appealing, achieving this early retirement requires disciplined saving, careful investing, and thorough planning. Experts say that to comfortably retire by 40, you must save between 35 to 79 times your annual expenses depending on your current age and lifestyl
How to Retire at 40: Savings, Planning & Financial Tips
Retiring at 40 has become an exciting goal for many young professionals seeking freedom from traditional work life. While the idea of stopping work just when others are reaching their career peaks sounds appealing, achieving this early retirement requires disciplined saving, careful investing, and thorough planning. Experts say that to comfortably retire by 40, you must save between 35 to 79 times your annual expenses depending on your current age and lifestyl

Is ₹70 Lakh Salary Still Middle Class in India
A surprising LinkedIn post by Gurugram-based investment banker Sarthak Ahuja has triggered widespread discussion across social media platforms, calling into question what it means to be “middle class” in urban India today. According to Ahuja, a ₹70 lakh annual salary a figure many would consider upper-middle class or even affluent may now fall squarely within what he terms the "new middle class." His argument is based on a simple truth:
Is ₹70 Lakh Salary Still Middle Class in India
A surprising LinkedIn post by Gurugram-based investment banker Sarthak Ahuja has triggered widespread discussion across social media platforms, calling into question what it means to be “middle class” in urban India today. According to Ahuja, a ₹70 lakh annual salary a figure many would consider upper-middle class or even affluent may now fall squarely within what he terms the "new middle class." His argument is based on a simple truth:

SBI Cuts FD, Savings Rates After RBI Policy Shift
In a move reflecting the Reserve Bank of India’s latest policy stance, the State Bank of India (SBI) has reduced interest rates on both savings accounts and fixed deposits (FDs), effective from June 15, 2025. This rate revision is expected to impact millions of depositors across the country, as banks realign with softer monetary cues from the central bank. SBI has cut its savings account interest rate by 5 basi
SBI Cuts FD, Savings Rates After RBI Policy Shift
In a move reflecting the Reserve Bank of India’s latest policy stance, the State Bank of India (SBI) has reduced interest rates on both savings accounts and fixed deposits (FDs), effective from June 15, 2025. This rate revision is expected to impact millions of depositors across the country, as banks realign with softer monetary cues from the central bank. SBI has cut its savings account interest rate by 5 basi

Farmers Insurance agent alleges wrongful policy cancellations affecting seniors
A Fremont-based Farmers Insurance franchise owner has raised serious allegations claiming the company has been canceling insurance policies by falsely stating the cancellations were requested by the insured clients. Jeffrey Carvalho, a 37-year veteran in the insurance industry, says this troubling practice has affected hundreds of his clients, especially senior citizens aged 65 and older across the Bay Area. Carvalho is demanding transparency and an end to these questionable cancellations.
Farmers Insurance agent alleges wrongful policy cancellations affecting seniors
A Fremont-based Farmers Insurance franchise owner has raised serious allegations claiming the company has been canceling insurance policies by falsely stating the cancellations were requested by the insured clients. Jeffrey Carvalho, a 37-year veteran in the insurance industry, says this troubling practice has affected hundreds of his clients, especially senior citizens aged 65 and older across the Bay Area. Carvalho is demanding transparency and an end to these questionable cancellations.

Kerala sees record growth in remittances and NRI deposits in 2025
Kerala has reached an unprecedented economic landmark as annual remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly those from Kerala, have surpassed ₹2 lakh crore for the first time. Alongside this, total deposits from NRIs in the state’s banking sector have crossed ₹3 lakh crore, signaling a robust and growing contribution of overseas Malayalis to the state’s financial ecosystem. This financial influx has significantly boosted Kerala’s domestic econo
Kerala sees record growth in remittances and NRI deposits in 2025
Kerala has reached an unprecedented economic landmark as annual remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly those from Kerala, have surpassed ₹2 lakh crore for the first time. Alongside this, total deposits from NRIs in the state’s banking sector have crossed ₹3 lakh crore, signaling a robust and growing contribution of overseas Malayalis to the state’s financial ecosystem. This financial influx has significantly boosted Kerala’s domestic econo

Retired Before March 2025? Claim UPS Benefits by June 30
If you retired from Central Government service on or before March 31, 2025, or are the legally wedded spouse of such a retiree, you may be eligible for significant financial benefits under the recently launched Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The deadline to claim these benefits is June 30, 2025, as announced by the National Pension System (NPS) Trust. Launched on April 1, 2025, the UPS is designed to supplement the pension income of retired Central Government employees and their spou
Retired Before March 2025? Claim UPS Benefits by June 30
If you retired from Central Government service on or before March 31, 2025, or are the legally wedded spouse of such a retiree, you may be eligible for significant financial benefits under the recently launched Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The deadline to claim these benefits is June 30, 2025, as announced by the National Pension System (NPS) Trust. Launched on April 1, 2025, the UPS is designed to supplement the pension income of retired Central Government employees and their spou

Why Young Indians Prefer Renting Over Buying Homes
For decades, owning a house was seen as a proud achievement in Indian households symbolic of success, stability, and adulthood. Parents often pushed their children to buy homes early, even if it meant burdening themselves with heavy EMIs. But in 2025, the mindset of India’s younger generation is shifting. With rising property prices, changing work patterns, and a desire for lifestyle freedom, more and more young Indians are opting to rent rather than buy. The traditional belie
Why Young Indians Prefer Renting Over Buying Homes
For decades, owning a house was seen as a proud achievement in Indian households symbolic of success, stability, and adulthood. Parents often pushed their children to buy homes early, even if it meant burdening themselves with heavy EMIs. But in 2025, the mindset of India’s younger generation is shifting. With rising property prices, changing work patterns, and a desire for lifestyle freedom, more and more young Indians are opting to rent rather than buy. The traditional belie

Middle East fast becoming global tech hub with AI, startups and cloud infrastructure
The Middle East is rapidly positioning itself as a significant force in global technology, with countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar taking bold steps to attract international tech investors and build local capacity. These nations are not only signing multibillion-dollar deals but also enacting legal reforms, fostering startup ecosystems, and constructing the infrastructure needed to support advanced artificial intelligence systems and cloud-based technologies. Thi
Middle East fast becoming global tech hub with AI, startups and cloud infrastructure
The Middle East is rapidly positioning itself as a significant force in global technology, with countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar taking bold steps to attract international tech investors and build local capacity. These nations are not only signing multibillion-dollar deals but also enacting legal reforms, fostering startup ecosystems, and constructing the infrastructure needed to support advanced artificial intelligence systems and cloud-based technologies. Thi

Dubai Firm Disappears Overnight, Investors Lose Millions
In yet another shocking case of financial fraud in the UAE, Gulf First Commercial Brokers, a Dubai-based brokerage firm, has reportedly shut down overnight, leaving behind empty offices and millions of dirhams in vanished investor funds. Many of the victims, including Indian expats, are now demanding answers after being lured into the scheme through aggressive cold-calling and promises of secure returns on forex investments. The firm operated from two office spaces in Capital Golden
Dubai Firm Disappears Overnight, Investors Lose Millions
In yet another shocking case of financial fraud in the UAE, Gulf First Commercial Brokers, a Dubai-based brokerage firm, has reportedly shut down overnight, leaving behind empty offices and millions of dirhams in vanished investor funds. Many of the victims, including Indian expats, are now demanding answers after being lured into the scheme through aggressive cold-calling and promises of secure returns on forex investments. The firm operated from two office spaces in Capital Golden

ULIPs vs Mutual Funds vs Stocks: Best for Long-Term Wealth?
Choosing the right investment vehicle for long-term wealth creation is a crucial step for financial planning. Among the most common options available to Indian investors are ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans), mutual funds, and direct investment in stocks. Each of these instruments offers a different mix of risk, return, flexibility, and cost. Understanding their core differences can help individuals make better investment decisions aligned with their goals and risk appetite.
ULIPs vs Mutual Funds vs Stocks: Best for Long-Term Wealth?
Choosing the right investment vehicle for long-term wealth creation is a crucial step for financial planning. Among the most common options available to Indian investors are ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans), mutual funds, and direct investment in stocks. Each of these instruments offers a different mix of risk, return, flexibility, and cost. Understanding their core differences can help individuals make better investment decisions aligned with their goals and risk appetite.

Mark Mobius Goes 95% Cash – Warns of 6-Month Global Market Risk, Bets Big on India
Veteran emerging markets investor Mark Mobius has shifted nearly all of his investments into cash, citing ongoing global trade tensions and market uncertainty. In an interview with Bloomberg Television, Mobius said that he currently has around 95% of his funds in cash, declaring that “cash is king” as the global economy navigates unstable trade dynamics. Mobius, who has over three decades of experience investing across developing markets and co-founded Mobius Capital P
Mark Mobius Goes 95% Cash – Warns of 6-Month Global Market Risk, Bets Big on India
Veteran emerging markets investor Mark Mobius has shifted nearly all of his investments into cash, citing ongoing global trade tensions and market uncertainty. In an interview with Bloomberg Television, Mobius said that he currently has around 95% of his funds in cash, declaring that “cash is king” as the global economy navigates unstable trade dynamics. Mobius, who has over three decades of experience investing across developing markets and co-founded Mobius Capital P

Tourist Wins $3.1 Million Jackpot on Illinois Lottery Visit to Chicago
A trip to Chicago ended with far more than sightseeing and selfies for one lucky tourist who now returns home $3.1 million richer. The unexpected windfall came courtesy of the Illinois Lottery’s FastPlay Ultimate Diamond Jackpot game, with the winning ticket purchased at Komal Wine and Liquors near O’Hare International Airport. The winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous, snagged a $3,188,104 jackpot while enjoying a visit to one of America’s most iconic cities.
Tourist Wins $3.1 Million Jackpot on Illinois Lottery Visit to Chicago
A trip to Chicago ended with far more than sightseeing and selfies for one lucky tourist who now returns home $3.1 million richer. The unexpected windfall came courtesy of the Illinois Lottery’s FastPlay Ultimate Diamond Jackpot game, with the winning ticket purchased at Komal Wine and Liquors near O’Hare International Airport. The winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous, snagged a $3,188,104 jackpot while enjoying a visit to one of America’s most iconic cities.