As the budget season approaches, Monika sheds light on the fiscal deficit, a critical number in the annual budget. Explore how the deficit impacts your life, how the government finances it, and why it matters where the borrowed money is spent. Uncover the intricacies of deficit financing, borrowing, and the ripple effects on inflation and private sector growth. Discover the government's spending priorities and the balancing act to prevent runaway inflation. Monika also answers your questions about the nuances of mutual fund strategies. She discusses passive vs. active funds, crafting the perfect fund mix, and the pitfalls of an overflowing portfolio. Monika navigates these queries, offering guidance for long-term investors, DIY enthusiasts, and those juggling numerous funds. Chapters: (00:30 - 09:10) Decoding The Fiscal Deficit (09:19 - 15:28) Question: Should I Stick To Passive Funds or Try Investing In Active Funds? (15:32 - 19:28) Question: What Is The Right Mix Of Funds? (19:30 - 24:04) Question: How Many Funds Do I Need In My Portfolio? If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at [email protected]  https://www.monikahalan.com/a-growth-push-and-a-nudge-to-salaried-class/ https://www.monikahalan.com/three-regulation-changes-that-make-mutual-funds-safer/ https://www.monikahalan.com/riding-out-the-economic-downturn-with-mutual-funds-episode-1/ https://www.monikahalan.com/retail-investors-should-stay-with-mfs-and-ignore-appeals-to-jump-into-smarter-products/   Monika’s book on mutual funds https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/ Calculators https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.  Twitter @MonikaHalan Instagram @MonikaHalan Facebook @MonikaHalan This is a Maed In India Production; check us out at www.maedinindia.in Creative Director: Mae Mariyam Thomas Project Manager: Shaun Fanthome Head of Audio: Kartik Kulkarni Producer: Meghna Gulati  Sound Editor: Sarthak Ray Artwork: Alika Gupta