How to make more money: 10 smart money moves to improve your finances and grow wealth in 2024

In March, 3 banks in the US namely Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), Signature Bank and First Republic Bank collapsed due to a run on their deposits caused by higher interest rates and losses on their bond portfolios.

The unlocking of investment mindset and the financialization of savings have begun. India has significant potential for growth and the addition of new income tax payers is a positive sign.

Euphoria sweeps the market for stock options

Apple's shares hit an all-time high of $183.79, their first in more than a year. The stock has surged by over 41% in 2023, compared to the Nasdaq 100 Index's gains of 35%. The company's balance-sheet strength, dependable revenue streams, capital-return program, recent performance, and industry-expanding plans have bolstered investor confidence. Apple, with its roadmap and incredible business model, is one of the few stocks that investors remain optimistic about owning even though it may fluctuate, said Wayne Kaufman, chief market analyst at Phoenix Financial Services.

Small and mid-sized funds have seen high inflows, causing concern among authorities about how they would hold up in the event of a sharp market selloff. The Securities & Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has also been reviewing stress tests conducted by such funds, sources have previously said.

Madhabi Puri Buch, Sebi chairperson, expresses concerns over stretched valuations of small- and mid-cap stocks favored by retail investors. AMFI directs mutual funds to provide additional disclosures. Sebi plans to bring in more disclosures on risk factors and allow T+ 0 trade settlement.

We believe that elections are just another passing event in the long investing journey for an investor. There have been many coalition governments in the past as well, however, we have also seen that an investor who stays invested by remaining focused, disciplined and not getting swayed by his own emotions has benefitted immensely over the long run.

In a period where small-cap stocks underperformed significantly, leading to a situation where large investors were calculating their losses in their small-cap holdings, there would be a group of steadfast enthusiasts who continue to see potential in small caps. Investing in these stocks, even amidst turmoil, can be sensible for those prepared to maintain their investment for three to five years. However, it's crucial to recognize the distinction between high-quality and poor-quality businesses across the small, mid, and large-cap spectrums, as well as the difference between the intrinsic value of a stock and the overall value of the company. Certain niche small businesses may still generate significant returns over time if they are held long enough. On the other hand, if one's approach to small-cap investments is merely based on the absolute value of a stock with hopes of a tenfold increase, then it's a misconception. Stock market investing, whether in small, mid, or large caps, should not be driven by unrealistic expectations; otherwise, it leads to nothing but undue stress, rather than substantial returns.

Many of the world's biggest bond funds are facing their third straight year of losses for the first time in roughly 40 years, as a relentless U.S. economy sends bond yields to their highest levels in more than a decade.

15 stocks have seen declines of up to 30% from their one-year highs. It's worth noting that all these stocks have recorded multibagger returns over the past year, and even with the recent adjustments, they still show gains ranging between 100% and 300%.