How to invest in times of a pandemic?

By Sara P. In these times of pandemic how can one save more and invest more in one's finances resources and manage risk. Many have lost their jobs and as a result have lost or depleted their savings from the corona virus epidemic. It becomes critical now more than ever to be financially savvy and find alternative means of economizing resources for yourself and for the family. Times are tough but there are ways of addressing risk for adequate gains. It has been a difficult year for the common man as a result of the epidemic. Businesses have been forced to close; so have schools. People have been laid off jobs or taken a cut back. Immigration is next to impossible. Families are hungry. Students are stuck in tents pitched on school grounds as they have nowhere else to go. Money is tight. What must one do to survive? We ask two prominent individuals on how to save and invest more and manage risk? Shailesh F. Shah, Investment Banker “COVID-19’s onslaught currently tells us that we don’t know enough to say life will be back to normal soon. Poorer countries are being affected severely. It becomes critical that your family and yourself conserve. Focus on saving. Restrict spending to what is absolutely necessary until you see sure-footed signs of improvement. As you save, look at where these savings can be deployed so there is growth. Riskier investments must be avoided. In contrast, stock markets have been battered. In selective ways, there may be smart opportunities. Gold is another alternative although its price has scraped the skies. Also, some essentials have tanked. It becomes important to evaluate their comeback likelihood and the time it is likely to take. If your risk appetite is aligned, these may be considered.” Shailesh F. Shah is Director in a few companies and works as an investment banking advisor and consultant. Mr. Shah has had the privilege of leading large companies and serving clients around the world in a variety of industries. Gitika Chandra, Finance Professor “During these uncertain times, we have all been called to evaluate our actual needs and wants. Many sectors are witnessing job losses and salary cuts, hence people have become wiser and are not spending beyond their means thus saving more. Since we are all staying at homes, we are already saving on commute and other small unnecessary impulse buying. Making small changes such as gym membership fees which has been replaced by at home yoga/exercise, cable TVs cost have been replaced by online streaming to name a few. Forecasting and budgeting finances is the need of the hour. As debt on common man increases while income reduces, taking a long-term view without panicking would help. Making the best choice that suits your current circumstance is a prerequisite. One can also opt for moratorium being offered by the Central bank during this time. Creating an emergency fund for future would be a prudent step. Ultimately peace of mind is more important than money. Hence make a wise choice.” Gitika Chandra is a dynamic individual with over 10+ years of experience in both the corporate and teaching industry. She is a postgraduate in finance, and specializes in Finance and Accounts. She places a high value on constant learning and being an inspiration for change.