Lessons from Jane Street

July 25

17 mins

Episode Description

This week, Monika unpacks SEBI’s case against global trading firm Jane Street, accused of manipulating India’s markets through high-speed trading and deep capital. With alleged unfair profits of over ₹36,500 crore, the case raises big questions around market fairness and retail investor safety. Monika explains what happened, why it matters, and what lessons investors should take away. The core message: avoid speculation, understand the risks of F&O, and stay focused on long-term investing. SEBI’s action is a positive move, but individual investors must remain cautious and grounded.She also breaks down how the F&O (futures and options) market works—what these derivative instruments are, what they were designed for, and why they are high-risk products that magnify both gains and losses. Originally meant for hedging, F&O today is often used by retail traders for speculation—despite the odds being heavily stacked against them. Monika cautions listeners that the data is clear: the vast majority of individual F&O traders lose money.

In listener questions, Abhishek asks whether he should take a ₹40 lakh loan to buy a ₹75–85 lakh residential plot despite personal reservations and strong pressure from family. He also wants to know whether redeeming well-performing mutual funds to reinvest elsewhere makes sense or if it hurts compounding. Ayan asks about the nominee claim process when mutual fund units are transferred after the original investor’s death—how it works, what documents are needed, and how smooth the process typically is. Mahesh, a salaried professional with a balanced financial setup, wants to know whether he should increase his home loan EMI or mutual fund SIPs after a raise.

Chapters:

(00:00 – 00:00) Lessons from Jane Street and Market Manipulation

(00:00 – 00:00) Real Estate vs Financial Assets: Should You Buy That Plot?

(00:00 – 00:00) Redeeming and Reinvesting Mutual Fund Profits

(00:00 – 00:00) Mutual Fund Transmission After Death

(00:00 – 00:00) Home Loan vs Mutual Fund SIPs: Where to Allocate Extra Income

https://www.sebi.gov.in/enforcement/orders/jul-2025/interim-order-in-the-matter-of-index-manipulation-by-jane-street-group_95040.html

If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠

Monika’s book on basic money management

⁠⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/⁠⁠

Monika’s book on mutual funds

⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/⁠