India Levies Anti-Dumping Duty on 5 Chinese Products to Safeguard Local Markets

To protect domestic industries from the influx of cheap imports, India has imposed anti-dumping duties on 5Chinese products, including vacuum flasks and aluminium foil. These levies, based on the Directorate General of Trade Remedies’ (DGTR) recommendations, aim to ensure fair competition and safeguard local manufacturers.

Anti-Dumping Measures and Their Scope

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued multiple notifications enforcing anti-dumping duties on Soft Ferrite Cores, vacuum insulated flasks, aluminium foil, Trichloro Isocyanuric Acid, and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Paste Resin. These products were being imported at prices below normal value, harming domestic producers.

The duties, valid for five years in most cases, range from USD 276 to USD 986 per tonne for Trichloro Isocyanuric Acid(Used for Water Treatment), while aluminium foil imports face a provisional duty of up to USD 873 per tonne for six months. Soft Ferrite Cores, used in EVs and telecom devices, now attract up to 35% duty on the CIF value. A USD 1,732 per tonne duty has been imposed on vacuum insulated flasks, and PVC Paste Resin imports from China, Korea RP, Malaysia, Norway, Taiwan, and Thailand now face levies between USD 89 and USD 707 per tonne.

India’s Strategy to Counter Unfair Trade Practices

Anti-dumping probes assess whether domestic industries suffer due to low-cost imports. If proven, corrective duties are imposed under World Trade Organization (WTO) guidelines to establish a level playing field. India has previously applied such duties on various goods from multiple countries, particularly China.

Despite being WTO members and major trading partners, India and China face ongoing trade tensions, with India frequently raising concerns over the widening trade deficit, which stood at USD 85 billion in 2023-24. These anti-dumping measures serve as a crucial tool to counteract market distortions and protect Indian manufacturers.

Conclusion

By imposing these duties, India aims to curb unfair pricing tactics and support local businesses. The move aligns with global trade regulations, ensuring a competitive domestic market while addressing trade imbalances with China.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

LIC and HDFC Mutual Funds Announce Income Distribution for Select Schemes

Mutual fund investors looking for regular income through the IDCW (Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal) option have a new update to consider. Both LIC Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund have declared income distribution across a set of their hybrid schemes, with March 25, 2025, set as the official record date.

HDFC Mutual Fund

HDFC Mutual Fund has announced income distribution under the Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) option for two of its hybrid schemes. The record date for all declared distributions is March 25, 2025.

Under the HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund, both Direct-IDCW and Regular-IDCW options will distribute ₹0.25 per unit. Similarly, the HDFC Equity Savings Fund will distribute ₹0.22 per unit for both Direct and Regular IDCW options.

 

LIC Mutual Fund 

LIC Mutual Fund has also declared IDCW payouts for a few of its hybrid funds. These include the LIC MF Balanced Advantage and LIC MF Aggressive Hybrid schemes. All distributions have a record date of March 25, 2025.

The LIC MF Balanced Advantage Fund will pay ₹0.5 per unit under both Direct-IDCW and Regular-IDCW options. The LIC MF Aggressive Hybrid Fund will distribute ₹0.1 per unit under its IDCW plan.

Conclusion 

Unitholders whose names appear in the fund’s records as of March 25, 2025, will be eligible for the declared income distribution. The payout will be processed based on the number of units held under the IDCW option of each respective scheme. Investors not holding units under the IDCW option will not be eligible for this distribution.

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Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Fact Check: Is Your Car Insurance Premium Linked to Your Credit Score?

Owning a car goes beyond convenience—it offers freedom, peace of mind, and independence. However, it also comes with responsibilities, the most important being adequate insurance coverage. While choosing a car insurance plan, many wonder: does a low credit score affect the premium amount?

Let’s explore the role of credit scores in car insurance premiums in India and the actual factors insurers consider while calculating your premium.

Understanding Car Insurance

Car insurance is a financial safety net that protects vehicle owners against losses from accidents, theft, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events. It ensures that you are not financially burdened in times of distress. To maintain this coverage, policyholders pay a premium, the cost of which is influenced by several factors.

What is a Credit Score?

A credit score is a 3-digit number ranging from 300 to 900, which reflects your creditworthiness based on your borrowing and repayment behaviour. A higher score indicates responsible credit use, making you a less risky borrower in the eyes of lenders.

This score is used extensively in financial services, especially when applying for loans or credit cards, to determine eligibility and interest rates.

Does Credit Score Affect Car Insurance Premiums in India?

Unlike in some western countries where credit scores are a major factor in determining car insurance premiums, Indian insurers currently do not use credit scores for this purpose. Your creditworthiness, as reflected in your credit score, does not directly influence the amount you pay for your car insurance in India.

However, that’s not the full story.

The Indirect Link: Credit Score and Car Insurance

Though insurers do not directly factor in your credit score when calculating your premium, having a good score can indirectly influence your insurance journey:

  • Better Financial Health: A good credit score often helps in securing loans at lower interest rates, which frees up money to invest in better insurance coverage.

  • Flexibility in Add-ons: With stronger financial standing, you may afford useful add-ons like zero depreciation cover, roadside assistance, or engine protection.

  • Higher Budget for Premiums: Improved cash flow due to lower EMIs or better loan terms may allow you to opt for a higher premium plan with better coverage.

Key Factors That Impact Car Insurance Premiums

If credit scores are not considered, then what really drives your car insurance premium? Here are the major factors:

1. Type and Value of Vehicle

Premiums are higher for expensive cars due to the increased cost of repairs and parts.

2. Age of the Vehicle

As the car ages, its market value drops, which typically leads to a lower insurance premium.

3. Driving History

A clean driving record with no claims or traffic violations often results in a lower premium, as you are perceived as a low-risk driver.

4. Coverage Level

Comprehensive policies with broader coverage cost more than basic third-party insurance.

5. Location

Cars used in metro cities or accident-prone areas may attract higher premiums due to greater risk exposure.

Tips to Improve Your Credit Score

Even though your credit score may not directly influence your car insurance premium in India, maintaining a healthy score is beneficial for your overall financial well-being. Here are a few ways to improve it:

1. Clear Dues on Time

Pay your credit card bills, loan EMIs, and other financial obligations before the due date.

2. Monitor Credit Reports

Check your credit report regularly for errors or fraudulent activity. You can dispute inaccuracies with the credit bureau.

3. Keep Credit Utilisation Ratio Low

Try to use less than 30% of your total credit limit. High utilisation may suggest poor financial discipline.

Final Word

While your credit score does not have a direct impact on car insurance premiums in India, maintaining good credit health can open doors to better financial products and improved liquidity. The actual insurance premium depends on tangible factors such as vehicle type, driving history, and extent of coverage.

Understanding these dynamics helps in making informed decisions—not just about car insurance, but also about maintaining your overall financial health.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Top 6 Government Schemes for a Secure and Peaceful Retirement in India

Retirement is a phase where financial independence becomes paramount. With rising healthcare costs and lifestyle expenses, having a robust financial plan ensures peace of mind. The Indian government has introduced various schemes that cater to different economic classes, age groups, and risk appetites. These schemes not only offer regular income post-retirement but also come with tax benefits and capital protection.

Let us explore six prominent government-backed retirement schemes that can form a solid foundation for post-retirement financial planning.

1. Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF)

The Employees’ Provident Fund is a statutory savings scheme designed for salaried employees in the organised sector. Under this scheme:

  • Both employee and employer contribute 12% of the basic salary and dearness allowance.
  • The current interest rate stands at 8.25%.
  • Funds mature when the subscriber reaches 58 years of age.
  • Partial withdrawals are allowed for specific life events such as marriage, education, or medical emergencies.
  • Contributions are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

EPF is a disciplined way to build a significant retirement corpus through long-term savings and compounding interest.

2. National Pension System (NPS)

The National Pension System is a market-linked voluntary retirement scheme open to all Indian citizens aged between 18 and 70 years. Here’s how it works:

  • Investors allocate funds to different asset classes like equity, government bonds, and corporate debt.
  • Returns are market-dependent and may vary year-on-year.
  • Upon retirement, 60% of the corpus can be withdrawn tax-free, and the remaining 40% is used to purchase an annuity.
  • Tax benefits include up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C and an additional ₹50,000 under Section 80CCD(1B).

NPS offers flexibility and a balanced exposure to growth and fixed-income assets.

3. Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)

This pension scheme is tailored for senior citizens aged 60 years and above. Key features include:

  • A guaranteed return of 7.4% per annum, locked in for 10 years.
  • The maximum investment limit is ₹15 lakh per individual.
  • Pension can be received monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or annually.
  • The principal is returned upon maturity, while in the event of the investor’s demise, the nominee receives the purchase price.

PMVVY is particularly suited for risk-averse retirees looking for stable income during retirement.

4. Senior Citizens’ Savings Scheme (SCSS)

SCSS is a government-backed savings scheme aimed exclusively at senior citizens. It stands out for its high interest rate and simple structure:

  • The current interest rate is 8.2%, payable quarterly.
  • The maximum investment limit is ₹30 lakh.
  • The scheme has a tenure of 5 years, extendable by 3 more years.
  • Investments are eligible for deductions under Section 80C.
  • However, the interest earned is fully taxable.

SCSS is ideal for conservative investors seeking a predictable quarterly income.

5. Public Provident Fund (PPF)

The PPF is a long-term savings scheme backed by a sovereign guarantee, making it one of the most secure investment options. Its key features include:

  • The current interest rate of 7.1%.
  • The lock-in period of 15 years, with optional extensions in 5-year blocks.
  • The minimum yearly contribution is ₹500, and the maximum is ₹1.5 lakh.
  • Enjoys EEE (Exempt-Exempt-Exempt) status: contributions, interest earned, and maturity proceeds are all tax-free.
  • Partial withdrawals are allowed from the 6th year, and loans can be taken from the 3rd year.

PPF is best suited for individuals looking for low-risk, tax-free compounding over a long horizon.

6. Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

Designed to support workers in the unorganised sector, APY provides fixed pension benefits post-retirement. Key highlights include:

  • Guaranteed monthly pension ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000.
  • The contribution amount varies based on the age of joining and the pension amount selected.
  • The government co-contributes 50% of the total contribution, up to ₹1,000 annually, for 5 years, for eligible subscribers who join before 40 years of age.

APY helps low-income earners secure a minimum guaranteed pension during old age.

Conclusion

Retirement planning requires a blend of foresight, discipline, and informed choices. While the above government schemes differ in structure, returns, and eligibility, they all aim to promote financial stability during one’s golden years. Depending on your employment type, risk profile, and income level, you can explore a mix of these instruments to build a sustainable retirement strategy.

Remember, it’s never too early to plan for retirement—starting today can pave the way for a secure and dignified tomorrow.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Public Sector Banks Record 33% Rise in Dividend Payouts in FY24

According to government data, public sector banks (PSBs) declared a total dividend of ₹27,830 crore for FY24, marking a significant 32.7% rise from the ₹20,964 crore distributed in FY23. This sharp increase reflects the enhanced financial performance and strengthened balance sheets of PSBs.

Out of the total dividend paid, nearly 65%, approximately ₹18,013 crore, was remitted to the government in FY24, attributable to its substantial shareholding in these banks. In the previous fiscal year, the government received ₹13,804 crore as dividend from PSBs, including major contributions from the State Bank of India (SBI).

Record-Breaking Profits Fuel Higher Returns

The increase in dividend payouts coincides with the best-ever net profit figures reported by PSBs. In FY24, 12 public sector banks collectively recorded a net profit of ₹1.41 lakh crore, a steep rise from ₹1.05 lakh crore reported in FY23. For context, PSBs had already earned ₹1.29 lakh crore in just the first 9 months of the financial year, indicating robust momentum.

SBI, the largest public sector lender, led from the front, contributing over 40% of the aggregate profits with a net profit of ₹61,077 crore, a 22% increase from ₹50,232 crore in FY23.

Punjab National Bank Leads in Profit Growth

In terms of percentage growth, Punjab National Bank (PNB) outshone its peers with a staggering 228% rise in net profit, reaching ₹8,245 crore. Union Bank of India followed with a 62% growth to ₹13,649 crore, while Central Bank of India posted a 61% increase to ₹2,549 crore.

Other notable performers include:

Conclusion

The FY24 performance marks a dramatic turnaround for PSBs. Just 6 years ago, in FY18, public sector banks had collectively posted record losses of ₹85,390 crore. The transition from deep losses to a record ₹1.41 lakh crore profit in FY24 underscores the sector’s recovery and reform-led resilience.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Missed Holi Deadline: When Will the DA Hike Be Announced?

The much-anticipated announcement of the Dearness Allowance (DA) hike for central government employees and pensioners has hit a roadblock. Traditionally declared before major Indian festivals such as Holi and Diwali, this year’s decision—expected before Holi—has been deferred. As of now, the Union Cabinet is yet to make an official declaration, despite earlier reports hinting at a possible approval post the meeting held on March 19.

According to news reports, procedural formalities and financial approvals have caused the delay. However, reports indicate that the government may finalise the hike at any time.

Understanding DA and Its Beneficiaries

Dearness Allowance is a cost-of-living adjustment offered to central government employees, pensioners, and employees of public sector undertakings (PSUs). It is revised twice a year—typically in January and July—to cushion the impact of inflation.

Unlike private sector employees, who are generally not eligible for DA, this allowance is directly tied to the basic salary or pension of eligible recipients. The aim is to help these individuals maintain their purchasing power despite rising prices.

Usual Timeline vs. Current Delay

Historically, DA hikes for the January–June period are announced prior to Holi, while hikes for July–December are revealed before Diwali. However, for the January–June 2025 cycle, the pre-Holi declaration did not materialise.

This delay has led to considerable speculation. It is currently believed, based on All-India Consumer Price Index (AICPI) data for July–December 2024, that a 2% hike is on the cards. This would take the DA from 53% to 55%.

Expected Timeline for DA Hike Decision

Now that the initial deadline has passed, attention has shifted to the next Union Cabinet meeting, expected next week as per reports. Should the government give its nod, the revised DA will be applicable retrospectively from January 2025.

Employees are likely to receive arrears for January, February, and March along with their April salary, offering some retroactive financial relief.

Estimated Monetary Impact for Employees and Pensioners

If a 2% increase is implemented:

  • An employee with a basic salary of ₹18,000 would see a monthly increase of ₹360, translating to an annual benefit of ₹4,320.

  • A pensioner with a basic pension of ₹9,000 would gain an additional ₹180 per month, amounting to ₹2,160 annually.

However, there are differing views. Some experts anticipate that the hike might go beyond 2%, potentially up to 4%, in light of the Reserve Bank of India’s updated inflation forecast of 4.8% for the current financial year, revised from 4.5%.

The Road Ahead: Waiting on the Government’s Move

While the DA revision may not be as significant as in previous years, it still holds importance as a buffer against rising living costs. With inflation persisting, even a modest increase offers meaningful support.

The delay has tempered expectations to some extent, but the impending decision still holds the potential to bring a financial respite to millions. For now, all eyes remain on the government’s next move.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

L&T Likely to Wins $4.5 Billion from Qatar Energy Project

Engineering powerhouse Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has reportedly emerged as the lowest bidder for a $4.5 billion offshore project floated by Qatar Energy. While final confirmation is awaited, reports suggest L&T is leading the race for one of the largest global EPC contracts in recent months.

Linked to Qatar’s massive LNG expansion

This project is a crucial part of Qatar’s ambitious LNG capacity expansion, which aims to increase output from 77 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 126 mtpa. This particular bid is for a project for the expansion of North Field as well as the South Expansion. 

The scale and urgency of the expansion have created opportunities for EPC giants, and L&T appears to be well positioned to capitalise.

Boost for L&T’s hydrocarbons business

Should the contract be awarded, it will significantly bolster L&T’s hydrocarbon segment, reinforcing its status as a global EPC leader. The segment has already seen momentum through both domestic and international wins, and this Qatar deal would be among its most valuable.

Reinforces L&T’s global footprint

A win of this magnitude would add considerably to L&T’s international order book, which the company has been actively trying to expand. It aligns with its strategic focus on scaling operations in the Middle East and diversifying its revenue mix beyond India.

Conslusion 

Although the deal is yet to be officially announced, market participants have responded positively. The share price of L&T shares is trading higher by 1.83% as of 1:47 PM on March 25, 2025. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Tripura Govt Announces 3% Hike in DA for Govt Employees and Pensioners

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Friday announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for state government employees and pensioners. The revised DA will come into effect from April 1, 2025, raising the allowance from 30% to 33%.

Over 1.85 Lakh Beneficiaries

The decision will impact a total of 1,85,538 individuals, including 1,04,683 regular state government employees and 80,855 pensioners.

The announcement came shortly after the state budget for the financial year 2025–26 was presented in the Tripura Legislative Assembly by Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy. The budget is estimated at ₹32,423.44 crore.

Focus Areas of the 2025-26 Budget

The 2025-26 budget focuses on infrastructure development, skill training, digital services, and support for long-term economic growth. The government has also outlined measures to improve governance and ease of doing business in the state.

Financial Burden of ₹300 Crore

The implementation of the revised DA will cost the state exchequer an additional ₹300 crore annually. This increase is aimed at reducing the gap in DA between state and Central government employees. According to the Chief Minister, the adjustment will be made gradually over time.

Ongoing Budget Session

The budget session of the 13th Tripura Legislative Assembly began earlier this week and will continue until April 1. The session will include detailed discussions on budgetary allocations, development plans, and policy-related matters.

Conclusion 

With this hike Tripura government wants to reduce the gap in DA between the state government employees and Central government employees.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Meesho Picks Banks for $1 Billion IPO, Targets $10 Billion Valuation

As per news reports, Meesho, the e-commerce company, has selected Morgan Stanley, Kotak Mahindra Capital, and Citi as advisors for its upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO), which is expected to raise around $1 billion. Discussions are also underway to potentially include JP Morgan in the syndicate.

Timeline and Filing 

The e-commerce company is expected to file its draft IPO documents in the coming weeks. If timelines hold, Meesho is likely to go public around September–October of 2025, close to the Diwali period.

Company Restructuring 

Before moving forward with the listing, Meesho needs to shift its headquarters from Delaware, US, to India. This reverse merger process is in its final stages. According to earlier reports, the tax impact of this transition is expected to be approximately $300 million.

Revenue and Profit Trends

Meesho has reported steady growth in revenue and profitability. In FY22, revenue stood at ₹3,240 crore, rising to ₹5,735 crore in FY23, and further to ₹7,615 crore in FY24. Net loss has declined sharply, from ₹3,248 crore in FY22 to ₹305 crore in FY24.

In 2024, Meesho reported 175 million annual transacting users, up 25% from 140 million a year earlier. The platform also saw a 35% increase in annual orders. The company attributed the growth to demand for affordable products in categories like fashion, beauty, and home essentials.

Valuation Increase Since Last Round

If Meesho lists at a $10 billion valuation, it will mark a 2.5x increase from its earlier valuation of $3.9 billion in 2024.

The company is backed by SoftBank, Meta, Prosus, Elevation Capital, and DST Partners. Two months ago, it received fresh capital from Think Investments, Mars Growth Capital, and Tiger Global.

Conclusion 

If the listing goes through in 2024, Meesho would go public ahead of Flipkart, which is still waiting for a timeline decision from parent company Walmart.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

SSF Plastics India Ltd Files Draft for an IPO with SEBI

SSF Plastics India Ltd has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for an initial public offering (IPO). The company, a key player in the packaging industry, plans to raise capital through a fresh issue of equity shares and an offer for sale (OFS).

Business Overview and Financial Performance

SSF Plastics provides end-to-end packaging solutions across various product categories, including bottles, containers, caps, tubs, and engineered plastic components. Its diverse clientele spans industries such as personal care, home care, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, engine oil, and consumer electronics.

For the six-month period ending September 2024, the company reported a profit of ₹15.19 crore on a revenue of ₹397.41 crore. Its listed competitors include Mold-Tek Packaging, Time Technoplast and Shaily Engineering Plastic.

IPO Structure and Fund Utilisation

The IPO comprises a fresh issue of ₹300 crore and an OFS of ₹250 crore from promoters and promoter group entities, who currently hold full ownership of the company. The proceeds will be directed towards debt repayment, capital expenditure for plant and machinery acquisition, and general corporate purposes.

IIFL Capital Services Ltd and Nuvama Wealth Management Ltd are managing the issue as book-running lead managers.

Conclusion

SSF Plastics’ IPO marks a significant step in its growth journey, aiming to strengthen its financial position and expand its operational capabilities. The offering is set to attract investor interest, given the company’s strong industry presence and financial performance.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.