March'24 Roundup: Markets, Education, and Top Funds

Looking to invest or study abroad?? This newsletter covers key market updates from the US & India, top overseas education trends for 2024, and recommended funds!? ?

Market Updates?

Global Market Updates?

? The US economy grew 3.4% during the fourth quarter of 2023. Core inflation in the US, which excludes food and energy, rose by 2.8%. The Federal Reserve opted to maintain the benchmark interest rates at 5.25-5.5% for the fifth consecutive time. In response, markets demonstrated favourable momentum, with the S&P 500, DJIA, and Nasdaq indices experiencing respective increases of 2.28%, 1.84%, and 0.64%.?

? Anticipation for the commencement of a rate cut cycle from June to July 2024 is mounting. Policymakers have emphasized their cautious approach to rate cuts, citing the economy's demonstrated resilience. Monitoring key macroeconomic indicators such as inflation, job market performance, auto sales, PMI, etc., will be important in determining the future direction of the markets.?

Indian Market Updates?

? In February 2024, consumer inflation in India was recorded at 5.09%, while wholesale inflation saw a slight easing to 0.2%. Equity mutual funds witnessed inflows of Rs. 26,865.78 crores in February 2024, the highest since March 2022. Market performance remained buoyant, with the Nifty 50 and Sensex yielding returns of 1.57% and 1.59%, respectively, for the month of March 2024.?

? The first MPC meeting of FY 2023-24, to be held in the first week of April 2024, will be the key monitorable. Also, the corporate results for the last quarter of FY 2023-24 will play a crucial role in determining the further direction of the markets.?

Funds To Look Out For?

1. UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund - Direct Plan - Growth Option?

Horizon - 5 to 7 Years?

Suitability - For investors who believe in value investing and seek exposure to it through passive investing for long-term capital appreciation and who understand high risk.?

2. HDFC Small Cap Fund - Direct Plan - Growth Option?

Horizon - 5 to 7 Years?

Suitability - For investors seeking exposure to small-cap equities for long-term wealth creation with an understanding of high risk.?

Education Updates?

• Australia is seeing a surge in international student enrollment with a record number of applications, but this has also resulted in a record number of visa rejections (an all-time high), prompting the Australian government to look for ways to manage student intake. One factor contributing to the increase in enrollment is the relaxed English language requirements.?
• As opposed to Australia, tightening immigration rules due to elections in popular study-abroad destinations led to a 40% drop in Indian student applications for overseas studies in 2024.?

Education Loans Updates?

9 Observed Overseas Education Trends for 2024?

The post-pandemic world has reshaped how students approach international studies. Changing geopolitical scenarios, evolving visa norms, and emerging technologies are pivotal.?

Nicholas A Mastroianni III, President and CMO, U.S., USIF, has shared the key trends expected to define overseas education in 2024. (Source: India Today)?

1. Diversification of Preferred Study Destinations?

Countries such as Ireland and Germany have emerged as popular choices. Various factors, including educational quality, post-study work opportunities, and student-friendly visa policies drive this.?

2. Rise of Technology and Hybrid Learning?

The integration of technology in education, expedited by the pandemic, continues to influence study-abroad trends. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are set to play a more significant role in delivering immersive educational experiences to overseas students.?

3. Increased Focus on Career-Oriented Programs?

Fields like Business and Management, Computer Science, Technology and IT, and Health and Life Sciences are particularly popular among international students.?

4. Policy Shifts Influencing Student Decisions?

Visa policies and governmental regulations in study-abroad destinations are crucial factors influencing student choices.?

5. Growing Interest from Smaller Cities?

In 2024, an interesting trend is the surging interest in overseas education from Tier 2 and 3 cities in India. This shift indicates a broadening base of international students driven by increased awareness, accessibility to resources, and scholarship opportunities.?

6. Sustainable and Responsible Learning?

Sustainability and social responsibility are becoming central themes in international education. Universities are incorporating these concepts into their curricula, encouraging students to engage with global challenges like climate change and social inequality.?

7. Financial Planning and Scholarships?

With the rising cost of overseas education, financial planning and scholarships are gaining more focus. Students and parents are exploring various financing options, including educational loans, grants, and scholarships. Universities are also offering more financial aid and scholarship opportunities to attract a diverse student body.?

8. Work Opportunities Post-Study?

Countries that offer post-study work opportunities and pathways to potential residency are highly sought after, as they provide students with practical experience and a chance to start their careers on a strong footing.?

9. Alumni Networks and Mentorship Programs?

The role of alumni networks and mentorship programs in aiding international students is becoming more pronounced. These networks not only help students adapt to a new educational environment but also play a crucial role in their career development and networking.?

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