In this episode, Monika presents an intriguing blend of insights and answers to listener questions. First, she explores how several non-US countries are seeking alternatives to the dollar-based global payment system, particularly regarding cryptocurrency. She clarifies that this discussion isn't an investment recommendation but highlights its implications for the future of global transactions. Next, Monika dives into a micro event: Airtel’s new app-based fixed deposit service that launched on September 1, 2024. This innovation aims to simplify FD investments by allowing users to choose deposits from various banks through an easy-to-use dashboard. She also shares some risks, especially regarding higher interest rates from smaller banks. Finally, Monika addresses three listener questions: one asks whether to pay off a home loan given the changing tax landscape; another inquires about the potential benefits of smart beta funds compared to traditional index ETFs; and the last expresses frustration over unequal investment allocations between spouses, seeking advice on how to handle this with their financial advisor. Chapters: (00:38 - 02:04) Cryptocurrency: Alternative to Dollar-Based Payment Systems (02:06 - 04:24) The Role of Crypto in International Trade: Russia and India (04:26 - 07:17) Fixed Deposits: Airtel's App-Based Investment Service (07:32 - 11:44) Home Loan Decisions: Balancing Tax Benefits and Financial Strategy (11:46 - 15:57) Smart Beta Funds: Understanding Strategy-Based ETFs (15:59 - 18:40) Portfolio Allocation Issues: A Case Study on Gender Bias in Financial Advisory If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠  Monika’s book on basic money management www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/⁠ Monika’s book on mutual funds www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/⁠ ⁠-funds/⁠ Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/⁠ Calculators investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html⁠ You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan.  Twitter ⁠@MonikaHalan⁠ Instagram ⁠@MonikaHalan⁠ Facebook ⁠@MonikaHalan⁠ LinkedIn @MonikaHalan Production House: www.inoutcreatives.com Production Assistant: Anshika Gogoi Fixed Deposit Home Page - Airtel Ayushman Bharat scheme: Why senior citizens over 70 need separate health insurance covers despite PM-JAY (moneycontrol.com) https://cleartax.in/s/section-115bac-features-new-tax-regime-benefits https://cleartax.in/s/old-tax-regime-vs-new-tax-regime Can smart beta funds deliver on their promise of low risk, high returns? (moneycontrol.com) Nifty200 Momentum 30 (niftyindices.com) Strategy Indices (niftyindices.com) india.fpsb.org/contact/