Are FDs Better Than Stocks?
2026-10-30
In this episode, Monika examines why fixed deposits have outperformed Indian equities over the past five years and whether investors should be worried. Using historical returns to illustrate the difference between investing entirely in equity and spreading money across asset classes, she explains why strong market performance in recent years should not become our benchmark for future returns.
She explores the importance of asset allocation and diversification across Indian equity, debt, gold and international equity. The episode looks at how different asset classes can complement one another, why chasing past winners can be risky, and how investors should align their portfolios with their age, financial goals and ability to tolerate losses. The message is simple: the aim is not to predict the best-performing asset, but to build a portfolio that can withstand different market conditions.
In the listener questions, Dr Parmeet Singh seeks guidance on fund selection, small finance bank deposits and investing for his young son; Sahil Shah asks about preparing his ₹4 crore portfolio for early retirement, tracking investments, evaluating health insurers and tax implications of investing in his homemaker wife’s name; and another listener seeks clarity on mutual fund NAV calculations, tax harvesting and how systematic transfer plans work.
(00:00–00:00) When Fixed Deposits Beat Equity: Why Asset Allocation Matters
(00:00–00:00) How Diversification Helps Build a Resilient Portfolio
(00:00–00:00) How Should You Build a Mutual Fund Portfolio on a Limited Income?
(00:00–00:00) Can You Retire at 45 With a ₹4 Crore Corpus?
(00:00–00:00) Understanding Mutual Fund NAVs, Tax Harvesting and STPs
If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]
Monika’s book on basic money management
Monika’s book on mutual funds
Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life
Calculators
You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.
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Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com
Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi
Let's Talk Money with Monika Halan
Monika Halan- No. of episodes
- 140
- Latest episode
- 2026-10-30
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Let's Talk Money is your guide to financial stability and freedom. Join Monika Halan, a trusted financial expert, as she delves into a wide array of topics each week. From tackling debt to making friends with the stock market, from gold to mutual funds, Monika's insights are your compass to financial wellness.
But that's not all! Monika's here to answer your money questions. Send them in, and she'll help you make informed decisions.
It's time to take control of your financial destiny with Monika Halan. So, Let’s Talk Money!