Traditional banking has undergone a significant transformation in the digital age, with online-only banks emerging as a popular alternative. These banks operate exclusively online, allowing customers to manage their finances through mobile apps and websites. 

If you are considering opening an account with an online-only bank in India, it’s crucial to understand the pros and cons before making the final decision.

Pros:

Convenient account access:

One of the most significant advantages of online-only banks is their convenience. With 24/7 availability, you can access your account anytime and anywhere using your smartphone or computer. 

This means no more rushing to the bank before closing or waiting in long queues. Managing your finances becomes hassle-free, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life.

Lower fees and charges:

Banks that operate solely online usually have lower expenses compared to traditional banks, and they offer their customers these cost savings. Opening an account with an online-only bank usually means lower or no monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements, and transaction charges. 

Attractive interest rates:

Many online-only banks offer competitive interest rates on savings accounts, often higher than traditional banks. By choosing an online-only bank, you can earn more from your savings, helping you achieve your financial goals faster. 

It is advisable to utilize a savings account calculator to compare interest rates and select the most suitable option for your requirements before opening an account.

Robust security measures:

Online-only banks prioritize the security of their customers’ accounts. They implement advanced encryption technologies and multi-factor authentication to protect your sensitive information. 

Additionally, they often provide real-time transaction alerts and allow you to set up personalized security preferences, adding an extra layer of protection. While no system is foolproof, online-only banks invest in maintaining a secure banking environment.

Cons:

Limited physical presence:

Unlike traditional banks, online-only banks lack physical branches. While this is an advantage in terms of convenience, it may pose a limitation for individuals who prefer in-person interactions for certain banking activities. 

An online-only bank may not be the best fit if you frequently require face-to-face assistance, such as depositing cash or seeking personalized advice.

Dependence on technology:

Operating exclusively online means relying heavily on technology for banking transactions. While online-only banks strive to provide a smooth user experience, occasional technical glitches or system downtime can occur. 

If you encounter any issues, you may have to rely on customer support or online resources. It’s important to consider your comfort level with technology and assess how it may impact your banking experience.

Limited range of products:

Online-only banks may have a narrower range of banking products and services compared to traditional banks. They often focus on core offerings such as savings accounts, checking accounts, and loans. 

If you require specialized financial products or services, such as a mortgage or a safety deposit box, you may need to explore options with traditional banks or other financial institutions.

To wrap up

Opening an account with an online-only bank in India has its own advantages and disadvantages. If the benefits align with your requirements and you are comfortable with online banking, an online-only bank can provide a seamless and cost-effective banking experience.

A small-cap fund is an investment option of the equity category that invests in small-cap companies. As per SEBI (Securities & Exchange Board of India), businesses ranking 251 and beyond of market capitalisation are called small-cap companies. Such mutual fund investment provides a high growth potential over the long-term period. Their growth pace accelerates during favourable market conditions and during rough conditions, they demonstrate high volatility. 

Why does a small-cap fund offer high growth?

As small-cap mutual fund spends on agile, promising, and smaller companies with high growth capacity, the potential of earning higher returns is even more. Small-cap companies basically show a rising economy. They can be small startups with attractive market runs owing to new services, ideas, and technology. 

Additionally, small-cap companies provide considerable rewards owing to the growth in the prices of the shares over the long term. As many small-cap companies begin their stock market phase with low market share prices, they offer tremendous growth potential of overcoming their bigger equity category i.e., large-cap and mid-cap. Thus, despite their lesser market experience and smaller size, small-cap companies, occupy a vital place in the nation’s economy and may become the industry leader in the future. 

Why do small-cap mutual funds have a higher risk?

Small-cap companies are inexperienced and might not endure the pressure of the market over the long term. Big-scale businesses often swallow the smaller rivals to maintain the leading market position. As an outcome, smaller companies may be acquired by bigger ones even before their maturity. Moreover, small companies may be prone to distinct market fluctuations, triggered by changes in governmental policies, both international and domestic. Hence, such market vulnerabilities can put small-cap funds at high risk.

Who can invest in small-cap funds?

Small-cap funds are prudent for those who can face potential losses from investments in the stock market and can explore small-cap mutual funds. You as an investor can even explore small-cap funds to avail long-term growth as smaller companies usually take more time to mature. 

There are many Indian businesses that began young and went on to grow into big entities. So, it can be rewarding over the long-term period. While mutual fund managers make it a point to consider the risk attached to small-cap companies before investing your money in them, you also as a retail investor must conduct your little research on the ground level to opt for the small-cap funds investing in apt companies of your preference. 

For example, sound monetary management and the strength of a company are vital for sustenance in the market. Often small-cap companies have limited fund reserves and hence a pragmatic liquidity reserve is essential. Apart from this, you as a retail investor must even look at the fund’s operating margin, sales, quality management and profits.

Note that once you have zeroed in on a preferred small-cap fund, you must use an online SIP calculator to determine the monthly contribution you can make to attain your financial goal by the deadline.

When it comes to managing your money, opening a savings account with a bank is a great option. Savings accounts provide a safe and secure way to store your money and earn interest on your deposits. However, with so many different types of banks, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is right for you. 

Here are the different types of banks you can open a savings account with:

Online banks

Online banks, also known as digital or virtual banks, are financial institutions that operate entirely online. These banks offer financial services such as savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and investment accounts, available through their website or mobile app. 

Online banks can be a good option for people who are prioritising convenience and flexibility in their banking experience. If you are comfortable with online banking technology and do not require in-person support, an online bank may offer the services and features you need to manage your finances effectively.

Public sector banks

Public sector banks are owned and operated by the Government of India. These banks are among the largest and most established in the country, with a wide network of branches and ATMs. Public sector banks often offer a range of financial services, including savings accounts, loans, and credit cards.

One advantage of opening a savings account with a public sector bank is the security and stability that comes with government ownership. These banks often offer competitive interest rates and may have lower fees than others.

Private sector banks

Private sector banks are owned and operated by private companies. These banks are often more customer-focused and may offer more personalised financial solutions. Private sector banks often offer various financial services, including savings accounts, investment accounts, and credit cards.

One advantage of opening a savings account with a private sector bank is the personalised attention and tailored financial solutions designed to meet your needs. Private sector banks may also offer higher interest rates and better customer service than public sector banks but at the same time they may also charge higher fees. 

Regional rural banks

Regional rural banks are financial institutions set up specifically to cater to the banking needs of rural areas. Regional rural banks are typically a partnership between a public sector bank and a local sponsor. These banks often offer a range of financial services, including savings accounts, loans, and insurance.

One benefit of opening a savings account with a regional rural bank is the accessibility and convenience of having a branch in your local community. These banks often offer specialised financial solutions tailored to rural areas’ needs, such as agriculture loans and crop insurance.

Foreign banks

Foreign banks are banks that are headquartered outside of India but have a presence in the country. These banks often have a global perspective and may offer more diverse financial products and services. Foreign banks often offer various financial services, including savings, investment, and foreign currency accounts.

One advantage of having an account with a foreign bank is that they might have a wider global network that may come in handy when you are travelling overseas. These banks may also offer specialised financial solutions that are unavailable with other types of banks.

Conclusion

There are many different types of banks to consider for opening a savings account, each with its own unique features, advantages, and disadvantages. Researching and comparing different banks before opening a savings account is important to ensure you choose a bank that meets your needs.

We can see that there are more automobiles on the roadways every day. Due to the rise in traffic accidents caused by this, securing your vehicle is more important than ever. Even if you are confident in your driving abilities, accidents are unpredictable, and the damage they cause would necessitate expensive repairs that would come out of your own wallet. You no longer need to do that, though, as there are plans available for bike insurance online that provide complete financial security.

Numerous policy types to look out for:

Depending on your needs, you can select a third-party or comprehensive policy when buying or renewing a two-wheeler insurance policy:

1) Liability to third parties

This policy covers damages to the person or property of a third party. According to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, a bike must have third-party insurance. The Supreme Court recently ruled that you must get a five-year third-party liability protection when you buy a new bike.

2) A thorough policy

A comprehensive plan, as opposed to third-party insurance, enables you to claim your own damages and third-party liabilities. Additionally, it offers protection from both – natural and man-made disasters, including theft, floods, vandalism, cyclones, earthquakes, etc. If your vehicle is stolen, you will be compensated according to its insured stated value (IDV). You have the option to alter the plan to meet your needs by choosing add-on covers. *

Advantages of purchasing bike insurance online

1) Abundant resources

The insurance provider will give you coverage if your car sustains any damages due to accidents, theft, or even man-made disasters. Accidental damage is also covered. Because you can never be sure when you may need the coverage and extra financial protection, you must always maintain insurance.

2) Coverage for personal injury

The standard third-party coverage won’t cover your car’s damages. To be covered for vehicle repairs, you must get a comprehensive policy. If it is insufficient, you can always supplement the standard coverage with add-on covers like Zero Depreciation, Consumables Expense, 24-Hour Roadside Assistance, etc. Then you can claim bike insurance when you need it, to bail yourself out of any trouble.

3) Adhering to the law

When riding a bike, carrying your insurance documents is just as crucial as donning a helmet and having your licence with you. You will be in trouble with the law and risk severe fines or even jail time if you are found riding a bike without insurance or with one that is expired or invalid.

4) Protection from third-party liability

You are obligated to compensate for any harm you cause a third party. Without insurance, you would be responsible for covering the costs of the damages. If such a cost arises unexpectedly, some people might be unable to cover it. All of this is covered by third-party insurance. However, you must be familiar with the procedure before you submit an insurance claim. Now, you can access it online on the website of the insurance company.

5) No-Claim Bonus (NCB)

Most consumers shy away from getting bike insurance coverage because they believe that the rates will be high. However, you are not required to pay the entire cost each time you renew your insurance. You qualify for a concession on your premium amount in the form of a No-Claim Bonus if you do not file any claims during the term period (NCB). You can expect to obtain a maximum concession of 50%. *

Compare several policies online, then see which insurance provider offers you the best discounts to ensure you get the most out of your bike insurance coverage. If you want bike insurance, check online, and you may acquire quotations in just a few clicks by using an internet application of a two-wheeler insurance premium calculator.

* Standard T&C Apply

‘Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.‘

Subscribe to Bajaj Allianz General Insurance YouTube Channel here!