Goenka Infos

A "tax loophole" has recently gone viral across social media and some online publications, claiming that an individual can save on capital gains tax from a property sale by using the proceeds to buy another property from their own spouse. However, a financial expert has sharply criticized this "hack," describing it as impractical and financially unwise. What is the Viral Claim? The story is told through a hypothetical example where a woman sells her property and, to save tax on the profit (capital gains), she purchases another property registered in her husband's name. By doing this, she supposedly claims an exemption under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act, thereby saving on her capital gains tax. The claim appears attractive at first glance and is being promoted as a smart financial move. The Expert's Analysis: An Expensive Bargain The expert completely dismisses this argument, calling it an example of "financial porn," where superficial and sensa...

 We've all seen them: the dazzling online banners screaming "50% OFF!", "80% OFF!", "FLAT 90% DISCOUNT!". These offers trigger an immediate rush, a fear of missing out on an incredible deal. But are these retail offers a genuine benefit to the consumer, or a sophisticated marketing tactic designed to manipulate our perception of value? The Maximum Retail Price (MRP) system in India was introduced as a consumer safeguard. It was designed to prevent arbitrary pricing and protect customers from exploitation by shopkeepers who, in an unregulated market, could sell a product at any price they wished. For a long time, MRP brought a semblance of order and gave consumers a benchmark for a product's "actual price." However, this once-reliable system is now arguably broken. It has been transformed from a shield for the consumer into a weapon for the marketer. The Current State of Deception Consider this common scenario: Two different D2C brands sou...

The resurgence of hybrids in India is more than a market trend; it's a deep dive into advanced automotive technology and a stark revelation of the nation's industrial challenges. To understand the future, one must first look under the hood. A Spectrum of Hybrid Tech  It is vital to distinguish between the different types of hybrids being discussed. Mild Hybrids: These are essentially assist systems that provide a small electric boost to improve fuel efficiency marginally. They are not true hybrids and are primarily used by manufacturers to meet emission norms. Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs): While offering a longer electric-only range, PHEVs are expensive and their environmental benefit is often lost if owners don't charge them regularly. They are likely to remain a niche product in the Indian market. Strong Hybrids: This is where the main action is. These vehicles can run on pure electric power for short distances at low speeds, significantly cutting fuel consumption in city ...

India's path to green mobility, once seen as a straight highway to an all-electric future, is now navigating a complex series of diversions. The reason? A powerful combination of government policy adapting to on-ground realities and the evolving perspective of the Indian car buyer. The debate is no longer just about which technology is best, but which is best for India, right now. A Policy Pivot Born from Pragmatism  For years, the central government's focus was clear: promote EVs with subsidies and favourable GST rates. Hybrids were largely left out in the cold. That landscape is now changing dramatically. Key states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Haryana are rolling out substantial road tax exemptions for strong hybrid vehicles, a clear signal of their growing importance. This policy pivot is a direct response to several pressing national concerns. The initial target of 30% EV penetration by 2030 is looking increasingly difficult to achieve amid slow adoption rates. More cri...

The Indian automotive market is on the cusp of a new competitive era: the hybrid wars. With the strategic winds shifting in their favour, almost every major car manufacturer is arming its portfolio with hybrid technology. Here’s a breakdown of the battle plans, from the established pioneers to the reluctant participants. The Japanese Vanguard: Toyota, Maruti Suzuki, and Honda Toyota :  The undisputed global leader in hybrids is set to double down on its strength in India, planning for deep localisation and a new platform (60PL) to bring a host of cleaner hybrid vehicles to the market. Maruti Suzuki :  The mass-market champion is aiming to disrupt the space with its own low-cost series hybrid (range extender) technology. While facing some initial delays, this move could make hybrids accessible to a much wider audience. Honda :  After an initial misstep with the premium-priced City Hybrid, Honda is course-correcting with a renewed focus on localising its acclaimed hybrid te...

 Subramani highlights a peculiar problem faced by many, especially those from generations that experienced scarcity: the fear of spending money , even when financially abundant. This deeply ingrained habit, shaped by past hardships and a lifelong emphasis on saving, can lead to psychological anxieties like chromatophobia (fear of spending money) and money dysmorphia (feeling of not having enough money, despite having it). The Roots of Reluctance to Spend The struggle to spend stems from a combination of factors: Scarcity Mindset: Growing up in times of widespread shortages (e.g., rationing, queues for essentials) imprinted a deep-seated fear of lack. This often manifested in older generations making every decision based on cost, even for necessities like medical treatment or eating out. Pleasure of Accumulation: The childhood habit of saving in a piggy bank evolves into an almost addictive pleasure of watching wealth grow. The "why" of money – its purpose for living – get...