Preeti Kulkarni

In today’s competitive lending environment, many homeowners are successfully reducing their mortgage rates thanks to improved credit scores. A higher credit score signals a reliable repayment history, empowering borrowers to negotiate better terms with lenders. Financial experts stress the importance of maintaining a robust credit profile, particularly as interest rates climb. However, some borrowers may be unaware of their negotiating leverage, missing out on substantial savings.

SECTIONS Home loan getting costlier? How a higher credit score can save you lakhs even when interest rates rise By ET Bureau Synopsis

When Gurgaon-based finance professional Vikram Tiwari saw his credit score rise from around 780 to 803, he spotted an opportunity to cut the interest cost of his Rs 72 lakh home loan. The improvement helped him negotiate a reduction in his interest rate from 8.45% to 7.5%, translating into estimated savings of around Rs 6 lakh over his remaining tenure.

Axis Pension Fund intends to enhance its National Pension System offerings to provide better retirement savings options. The introduction of NPS Swasthya addresses the health insurance needs for older customers effectively. Despite tax benefits, low awareness continues to hinder corporate NPS uptake among employees. Further clarity on Tier-II NPS account taxation and extended tax deductions could encourage broader participation.

Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week, Preeti Kulkarni explains how the MWP Act can ensure greater protection for your family.

As the festive season of Diwali nears, it’s wise for individuals to take a fresh look at their investment portfolios. This reflection can shed light on stagnant investments and empower improved financial planning. Financial experts advocate for a disciplined approach to asset distribution and routine portfolio assessments. Some investors may still cling to non-performing mutual funds and insurance that limit their potential growth.

Diwali is nearly here, as is the annual ritual of tidying up homes, clearing out clutter and making room for new purchases and fresh beginnings. But the festive clean-up need not stop at one’s home.

Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week, Preeti Kulkarni explains how the moratorium clause in health insurance protects policyholders against arbitrary claim rejections.

As parents spend more on soft skills, the challenge is to identify pursuits that offer lasting value.

Mumbai-based Aariyana Dasgupta may be only 12, but she has already explored a range of creative pursuits, including drama, piano, public speaking, Bharatanatyam and guitar.