The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) is expected to retain the interest rate for its six crore account holders at 8.5% in 2010-11, with a formal announcement likely to be made in August. "I hope that the recommendation of 8.5% by the finance and investment committee of the EPFO will be retained," Central Provident Fund Commissioner S Chatterjee said. "The EPF rate will hopefully be finalised in the next EPF Board meeting, which is expected in August," he said. Asked if there was any shortfall in return from the current payout of 8.5%, Chatterjee said there was no deficit.
Term insurance may not be the most-marketed product by life cos, but it’s a must-have in today’s risk-prone lifestyle WHEN was the last time your insurance agent sold a term plan to you? It’s not a very popular policy among agents, as their commission in absolute terms is low because of the low-premium. Just as agents have their self interests in mind while selling, you need to make your own decision about your insurance needs, which are unique to your family. COST ADVANTAGE A term plan is pure protection. It is the cheapest type of life insurance policy. But what you see might not be what you get, most insurers have a range of health parameters for standard rates. If any of your health parameters — weight, blood pressure for instance fall outside this range, you will pay more. For some companies, the standard range is very narrow. EARLY BIRD GAINS A 30-year-old will pay 15% more premium than a 25-year-old. At 40, the premium is double of what is applicable for a 25-year old, points...
