A Quarterly Magazine on Finance and Investment Insights for Women
MAKING HER ATMANIRBHAR March 2025
Issue 3
THE LEAD STORY
06
Personal Finance
08
SheRose
A Parent's Guide To
Meet Ruchi Dave
Financial Planning .. for Kids
C, lnfographic
CD The Rent Runaround
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An Assistant Conservator of Forests - South Gujarat & Publisher of "Aapna Patangiya" A Gujarati book on butterflies
Young Corner
C, Learn with LakshMe
MAKING HER ATMANIRBHAR
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Women Empowerment through Personalized Financial Sessions It's time for every woman to take control of her finances and achieve her goals!
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Founder's Note
The Impact of Social Media on Spending Habits Social media is a big part of our lives, keeping us connected to friends, family, and the world. But have you ever taken a moment to think about how it's affecting your finances? It's subtly shaping our spending habits, one scroll at a time. According to a study by Meta, 70% of online shoppers in India's tier-II and tier-Ill markets use social media to find new products, with 60% using reels and influencers. The likes, shares, and follows may be free, but they will have a profound influence on our wallets. To be better than others, many have fallen into the trap ofoverspending and buying things they don't need. We are often led to believe that luxury is within reach, thanks to easy finance options like BN PL and EMIs. But is "affordable" really "affordable"? Or it's a debt trap? One might end up paying more than the original price and could be stuck with debt for months or even years. How to avoid it?
The likes, shares, and follows may be free, but they will have a profound influence on our wallets.
Ask yourself: would I buy this if I had to pay cash upfront? Define clear priorities between needs and wants. Plan in advance for any big-ticket purchase. Don't let others dictate your spending habits.
In today's world of instant gratification, where buying is just a click away, it's easy to get caught up in impulse purchases. However, by being mindful and following the above simple tips, you can break the cycle of unnecessary spending and buy only what you truly need! MaitryShah
Founder, LakshMe.
www.lakshme.com , LakshMe - March 2025
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TheTea Sip, share, and stay informed
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The mutual fund industry has played a pivotal role in empowering Indian households and investors to be a part of the country's growth story, providing a platform for wealth creation and financial inclusion, the report mentions.
: Source: I https://economictimes.indiatimes.com
The Mahakumbh has led to an inadvertent cash leakage in the system and a significant part of the money may not come back into the system as deposits-As per report Around U trillion would be needed by March to keep the systemic liquidity just in equilibrium, it added.
Women investors account for over 25% of individual investors and hold 33% of individual AUM: AMFI The industry has seen greater financial inclusion, with women playing a more active role in managing their finances and investors from beyond the top 30 cities participating in mutual funds, according to AMFI Factbook 2024.
I Maha Kumbh caused : inadvertent cash leakage : in system, says SBI report.
ManojArora
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@manoj_216
Money can give you freedom. This is just one part of the story. How to use that freedom is another part of the story. Forget living, most people do not have the courage or time to think about life after freedom. 7:31 PM • Jan 26, 2025
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Source: https://www.business-standard.com
Gurmeet Chadha
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@connectgurmeet
The pain of 10% loss is far more than the joy of 25% gain . This is called Loss aversion. Primary reason why most investors are unable to hold on to equity for long periods of 10-15 years. 8:14 AM • Jan 24, 2025
infoGraphic Visual insights and Learning
8 Key Decisions Beyond Budgeting That Shape Your Financial Journey. Retirement Planning: Securing Your Financial Future Consider factors like inflation, rising healthcare costs, and the desired lifestyle during retirement. Plan early with different retirement investment options.
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Social Circle: Shaping Your Spending Behavior Your social circle shapes spending. Surround yourself with people who value financial responsibility and prioritize long-term financial goals.
Housing: Renting or Buying? Evaluate costs, affordability, and long-term goals before deciding. The decision should be based on your financial situation and future plans.
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Career Choices: Laying the Foundation for Financial Stability Assess your skills, interests and market demand before choosing a particular profession. Research about growth opportunities to make an informed decision.
Education: The Key to Future Opportunities Invest wisely in studies and acquiring skills. Also, consider the return on investment while choosing your field.
Health and Wellness: A Worthy Investment in You
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Family Planning: Getting Ready for Parenthood It's crucial to consider the financial implications of raising a child. Preplan to manage costs and secure your children's future.
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Prioritizing health boosts life quality and protects finances. Stay active, eat well, get health insurance, and save for medical emergencies.
Marriage: A Partnership in Finances Marriage celebrates love but also involves finances. Discuss goals, debts, and spending habits to build trust and a prosperous future.
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The Lead Story
06
March 2025 - LakshMe
www
What Is Lifestyle Inflation?
Why Is It a Problem?
o v er.s h a d o w
Your 20s to 30s witness a vast change in lifestyle, health, finances, social practices and personal relations. Biggest change is attributed to being financially independent which has direct impact on your lifestyle choices. From as insignificant as a choice of bread to buy, to as critical as a choice of car to buy.
Conclusion
In this phase you're going through a few emotions to quote: a) i worked hard, I deserve the upgrade; b) my parents are getting old, they deserve a comfortable life ; c) 3rd, which has the most impact on your financial decisions, peers and friends. Seeing the same set of people you started with, upgrading their lifestyle tempts you to catch up. And we tend to make some exuberant lifestyle choices because now not only do we have the purchasing power, we are also witnessing changes in the lives of people around us. Financial surge that comes with changing jobs, promotions, appraisals & bonuses are variable elements in your financial planning. Your financial stability will come from controlling the urge to upgrade at the wrong stage of your life. Question to be asked here is, do i need this thing now or can i invest instead and delay this purchase after gaining some investment benefit. Rising commodity inflation will want you to decide otherwise, however flexibility in investments can always help you fight inflation.
How to Avoid Lifestyle Inflation
Anushree Rana
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Senior Manager ICICI Prudential Life Insurance
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Personal Finance
A Parent's Guide To
Financial Planning for Kids Every parent dreams of giving their child a life full of opportunities, security, and comfort. In today's uncertain world, securing your child's financial future is not just about saving but also about planning wisely. From education to healthcare - a strong financial foundation can ensure that your child thrives, no matter the circumstances. So, where do you begin? Here are key steps every parent can take to safeguard their child's future. Start Early with a Financial Plan The earlier you begin, the easier it is to achieve your goals. Start by setting specific milestones - like funding higher education for kids, wedding expenses, or creating an emergency fund for unforeseen situations. Break these goals into smaller, manageable chunks and prioritize them based on timelines. Investing early also means that you can get benefit from the power of compounding, allowing even small, consistent contributions to grow into significant savings over time. Prioritize Education Savings A quality education can pave the way for a successful future, but rising costs makes it critical to plan ahead. Open a dedicated education savings account and transfer a fixed amount every month in it. Keep an eye out for products where you can get inflation adjusted returns to grow your savings over time. The earlier you start, the more your investments will
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benefit from compounding - ensuring your child's aspirations are financially supported. Invest in Life and Health Insurance While no one likes to think of worst-case scenarios, being prepared for them is vital. Life insurance, especially term plans, ensures that your child will be financially protected even if you're no longer around. Health insurance is equally important. Children's medical emergencies can strain finances, so securing a comprehensive health plan gives you peace of mind while keeping healthcare expenses in check. Teach Financial Literacy Securing a child's financial future isn't just about saving money- it's also about teaching them to manage it. Introduce concepts like saving, budgeting, and responsible spending as early as possible.
Gearing Up For
The New Financial Vear As March 31 approaches, it's time to take stock of your finances and prepare for a fresh financial year. Just like you set personal resolutions in January, Aprill marks the perfect opportunity to reset your financial goals. By planning, you can avoid last-minute tax stress, maximize your savings, and ensure a smooth financial journey in the coming year. Why the March 31 Deadline is Critical? You can start with simple tasks like managing pocket money or opening a minor savings account. Financial literacy equips children to make informed decisions as they grow older, empowering them to take control of their financial well being. Create an Emergency Fund Life is generally unpredictable, and emergencies - whether big or small - can throw plans off track. An emergency fund acts as a safety net during unexpected situations, such as job loss, medical expenses, or sudden educational needs. Make it a priority to set aside at least 3-6 months' worth of expenses in a liquid, easily accessible fund. Conclusion Securing your child's financial future isn't a one-time effort - it's an ongoing process that requires careful planning, discipline, and foresight. Whether you're investing in their education, protecting them with insurance, or teaching them about money, every small step contributes to building a stable future. By starting early and staying consistent, you can ensure that your child grows up with the sufficient resources, security, and knowledge to lead a fulfilling life.
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March 31 is not just another date - it is the final call for many financial decisions. If you opt for the old tax regime and have not yet made tax-saving investments under section 80c (like PPF, ELSS, or NSC), this is your last chance. It is also the deadline for advance tax payments and reviewing your financial portfolio before the new financial year begins.
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Check Your Financial Goals: Assess your savings, emergency fund, and debt repayment progress.
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Use up Any Leave Travel Allowance (LTA) or Other Year-End Benefits: If
applicable, claim reimbursements before they lapse.
Why Does April Matter for Your Finances?
With the shift towards the new tax regime individuals should focus on evaluating their tax liabilities under the new slabs and making informed decisions regarding voluntary investments, rather than relying solely on deductions. Missing these deadlines could mean higher tax liabilities or lost financial benefits.
April marks a fresh start - a time to realign your finances without the pressure of looming deadlines. Planning early in the financial year helps you spread out investments, reducing the burden of last minute lump-sum payments. It is also a great time to reassess your budget based on income changes, lifestyle shifts, or new financial goals.
Essential Tasks Before the
With the new tax regime becoming the default for most taxpayers, gearing up for the financial year means reassessing tax strategies. Since many deductions under the old regime no longer apply, focus on optimizing your take-home income and planning investments that align with your financial goals rather than solely for tax benefits.
Financial Year Ends Before you turn the page to April, make sure you have checked these off your list: •
Review Your Tax-Saving Investments:
If you are opting for the old tax regime, ensure you have maximized your deductions under Sections SOC, 80D, and 24(b) by completing eligible investments and payments before March 31. •
File Any Pending Income Tax Returns
Avoid late fees and penalties by ensuring all your income tax returns are filed and up to date. (ITR):
Conclusion A little effort before and after March 31 can set the tone for a financially stress-free year. By assessing your finances now and planning, you are not just managing money-you are building wealth for the future.
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SheRose
Roots of Passion:
Ruchi Dave's Transformational Journey
1 O j March 2025 - LakshMe , www.lakshme.com
Who is Ruchi Dave? Growing up in Mahuva, a small town in the Bhavnagar district, Ruchi Dave had big dreams and an even bigger passion. For 12 years, she taught students in a classroom, sharing her knowledge and inspiring young minds. She was always passionate about the environment and wanted to protect it. So she passed the Gujarat Public Service
Passi on for nature turns into a book: Her love for nature and education led her to publish Aapna Patangiya (Our Butterflies), a 424-page Gujarati book with 700+ images. The book 'Our Butterflies' describes in detail the breeding of butterflies, their life cycle, the exciting stories behind their names and the great contribution of butterflies to the environment.
lmpac t ofherwork: • During her tenure in the Forest Department, she played a key role in conservation efforts, including at Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. • She led the creation of Arogya Van at the Statue of Unity, inspiring then President Ram Nath Kovind to establish a similar garden at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
After completing her research on the endangered Gyps vulture, she began working to protect these majestic birds in the coastal regions of Bhavnagar and Amreli. Her dedication shows that we can make a big impact when we truly care about a cause.
Serving The F orest, The Future:
Commission's Field Forest Officer Exam i n 2 0 1 6 a n d j o i n e d t h e Fo r e s t Department. Today, Ruchi is an Assistant Conservator of Forests with the Gujarat Forest Department. Her story shows that it's never too late to follow your dreams!
In 2016, Ruchi joined the Gujarat Forest Department. This marked the beginning of an exciting new journey for her. She went on to train at the Central Academy for State Forest Services (CASFOS) in Coimbatore. This training helped her learn even more about protecting the environment and conserving natural resources. During her training, she wrote a comprehensive guide called 'A Pictorial Field Guide to B u t t e r fl i e s o f Fo r e s t C a m p u s , Coimbatore'. This project fueled her love for butterflies and conservation.
• In 2022, her expertise helped bring the six-acre Arogya Vanam to life. Designed in the shape of a human in a yoga posture, the garden highlights the m e d i c i n a l p r o p e r t i e s of p l a n t s , educating visitors on the significance of Ayurveda. • R u c h i ' s h a n d s - o n approach t o conservation led her to launch a glass water bottle plant at the Padamdungari Eco-Tourism Centre, eliminating single use plastic while creating local jobs. This initiative now serves as a model for eco tourism across Gujarat. She's been recently promoted to Assistant Conservator of Forests and is now working in Dharampur, South Gujarat. She believes that it's not just talking about making a difference that matters, but actually taking action to make it happen.
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India Ki LakshMe
Meet Payal Nath Founder, Kadam Haat
Early Beginnings: Trained as a shoe designer, Paya! pivoted to design consulting early in her career. Identifying The Problem: Paya! realised that while she was making good money, the artisans she worked with could barely make ends meet. Kadam Foundation: The Kadam Foundation is an initiative dedicated to upskilling rural artisans, 85% of whom are women.
These have made a significant impact by bringing livelihoods to their doorstep. A True Success Story: Over the last 20 years, Kadam Haat has built a network of over 10000 artisans, and wishes to reach out to 1 million homes. Kadam Haat Begins: A one-of-a-kind handicrafts store that brings together natural fibre craft from different parts of the country, with a vision to empower over 1 million artisans.
12 j March 2025 - LakshMe , www.lakshme.com
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healthcare advancements, efficiency, and fosters creativity. However, it also raises privacy concerns, increases dependency, exposes users to cyber threats, displaces jobs through automation, and impacts mental health due to excessive screen time. Ultimately, its impact depends on how responsibly we use it and address its challenges. -JshaJoshi MBA (Finance), NM/MS Hyderabad Ql. How do you protect your personal and financial information online, have you encountered a financial scam or fraud, if yes how did you handle it?
No, I did not encounter any scam online, but I protect my personal and financial information by using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security. I avoid public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, regularly monitor bank statements for suspicious activity, and stay alert to phishing attempts by verifying sources before clicking links. I keep my devices and software updated to guard against vulnerabilities and use reputable antivirus and anti-malware programs for added protection. Q2. Is technology a blessing or a curse in today's world?
Technology is both a blessing and a curse, depending on its use. It enhances connectivity, access to information,
14 j March 2025 - LakshMe
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scams and fraud, proving that 2FA is a simple yet powerful tool for digital safety. Q2. Is technology a blessing or a curse in today's world?
In my opinion, technology is a blessing and not a curse if used appropriately. It has revolutionized our daily lives, bringing everything to our fingertips-from booking flights to ordering groceries in just minutes. Technology enhances efficiency, boosts productivity, and fosters global connectivity, enabling seamless collaboration. With continuous advancements, it empowers us to work smarter and live more conveniently, making lifebetter in countless ways. -Aayush Shah MBA (Finance), NM/MS Hyderabad
Ql. How do you protect your personal and financial information online, have you encountered a financial scam or fraud, if yes how did you handle it?
I safeguard my personal and financial i n f o r m a t i o n w i t h t w o-f a c t o r authentication (2FA), adding an extra layer of security. First, I unlock the app using Face ID, followed by a secure password, ensuring maximum protection. T his robust security measure has kept me safe from financial
Ql. How do you protect your personal and financial information online, have you encountered a financial scam or
fraud, if yes how did you handle it?
Protecting personal and financial information online is crucial to avoid scams. - Create unique, complex passwords and use a password manager. Enable 2FA. 1. Use St rong Passwords
2. Bew a r e of Phi s hi ng - Av o i d suspicious links, verify senders, and check for "https://" before entering details. 3. Secure Devices - Keep software updated and avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions unless using a VPN.
4. Increased Convenience 5. Economic Growth and Opportunities Technology drives innovation, creates jobs, and boosts productivity in various industries.
1. Loss of Privacy and Security 2. Digital Addiction and Mental Health Issues 3. Job Displacement 4. Environmental Impact 5. Misinformation and Cyberbullying - Shubhi Hazari B.com, Jabalpur
I haven't experienced fraud but know many who have.
I. Improved Communication 2. Access to Information and Education 3. Advancementsin Healthcare
Q2. Is technology a blessing or a curse in today's world?
While technology has undoubtedly brought advancements, I believe it has become more of a curse than a blessing in today's world. It has eroded privacy, as personal data is constantly being tracked, sold, and exploited without our consent.
5. Limit Personal Info Sharing - Be cautious on social media and share details only with trusted entities.
Technology can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how it is used and its impact on individuals and society. Here's a perspective:
I am cautious about sharing personal information and avoid clicking on suspicious links or emails. Fortunately, I've not encountered a financial scam directly, but I always stay informed about the latest scams to stay one step ahead. If I were to fall victim, I would immediately contact my bank, change my passwords, and report it to the relevant authorities.
Technology as a Curse:
4. Monitor Finances - Regularly check statements and set alerts for unusual activity.
Q2. Is technology a blessing or a curse in today's world?
online. This includes using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible, and regularly monitoring my bank accounts and credit reports.
Ql.How do you protect your personal and financial information online, have you encountered a financial scam or fraud, if yes how did you handle it?
I take several steps to safeguard my personal and financial information
Social media platforms have fostered toxicity, addiction, and a lack of genuine connection. Moreover, the rise of misinformation and deepfakes has blurred the line between truth and deception. We've become too dependent o n devices, which has diminished face-to-face interactions and m e n t a l w e l l-b e i n g . T h e p a c e of technological change is outstripping our ability to regulate it, and in many ways, it is creating more harm than good. -Ananya Shukla Teacher, Baroda
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How do I categorize my goals by timeline?
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Having your separate health insurance is crucial. If you're still someone who relies only on their company's health insurance plans, make it a priority in the new year.
How youngsters can fulfil their financial goals, track progress, and build a plan that lets them achieve their goals. While it may not be simple at first, with time, they can learn to manage time duration, investments, and savings.
Taking a home loan is a big decision requiring years of commitment, but the journey doesn't have to be confusing! Here are some more things to keep in mind while taking a home loan...
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;r•
TheMoneyQuote "Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants."
"Balancing your money is the key to having enough." - Elizabeth Warren
- Epictetus
"Financial security and independence are like a three-legged stool resting on savings, insurance and investments." - Brian Tracy
"A dream becomes a goal when action is taken toward its achievement." - Bo Bennett
"Personal finance is 80% behavior. It's only 20% head knowledge."
"Money isn't everything, but it's right up there with oxygen." -Zig Ziglar
- Dave Ramsey www.lakshme.com , LakshMe - March 2025
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ByThe
Numbers 4.49 lakh crore Allocated for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26, an increase of Rs. 37 .25% over the Gender budget allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25. Source: www.pib.gov.in
78 score
The Women in Blue dominated Nepal in a spectacular final, sealing their victory with an emphatic score of 78-40 in the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. Source: Mint
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22.9 million
Women filing income-tax returns in assessment year (AV) 2023-24 compared to 18.3 million in AY20, according to data from Lok Sabha.
SO+Age The 2025 Golden Globes highlighted the achievements of women over 50, with actresses like Demi Moore, Jodie Foster, and Jean Smart receiving awards. This shift challenges Hollywood's traditional age biases. Source: Vogue
52 days Ananya Prasad setting off from La Gomera, Spain, on December 11, 2024, she reached Antigua in 52 days. Source: The Better India, YourStory
In the Padma Awards 2025, 23 women have been recognised for their outstanding work in different fields. Source- India Times
18 j March 2025 - LakshMe , www.lakshme.com
Source: ET
600
female students Under the aegis of Minister of State (1/C) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and implemented by the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) and in joint partnership with NITI Ayog, Women Entrepreneurship Programme introduces a structured, multi-stage training approach to help young women transition from ideation to successful enterprise creation. It begins with an Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP), a two-day workshop designed to introduce female students to fundamental entrepreneurial concepts, market opportunities, and essential business skills. Source: www.pib.gov.in
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