West Asia tensions raise filter coffee and airfare prices
The ongoing tensions in West Asia (think Iran, the US and Israel) are hitting wallets everywhere.
Disrupted oil and gas supplies mean simple things, like your afternoon filter coffee, now cost about 25% more.
Flying isn't spared either: domestic airfares are up 15%, and international tickets have jumped nearly 30% because of pricier jet fuel and longer routes.
Households rethink purchases as bills rise
With costs rising across the board, many households are rethinking big purchases and making sure they have enough set aside for emergencies.
Expect higher utility bills as temperatures climb, plus pricier commutes. The upcoming monsoon season could also push up medical costs if vector-borne diseases surge.
On a brighter note, SEBI has suggested Gift Prepaid Payment Instruments, a new tool for gifting and investing in mutual funds.