Investment News
Top 7 flexi cap mutual funds to invest in December 2025
ETMutualFunds shortlisted top flexi cap funds using rolling returns, consistency, risk and size filters. Parag Parikh and HDFC Flexi Cap emerged as consistent leaders, while others showed mixed quartile performance, highlighting the importance of long-term horizons for investors.
NFO Alert: ICICI Prudential Life Insurance launches Sector Leaders Index Fund
ICICI Prudential Life launched a Sector Leaders Index Fund under ULIPs, offering passive exposure to market-leading companies across 20+ sectors, aiming to simplify long-term equity investing with diversification, discipline and a rule-based approach aligned to Indias growth story.
Mutual funds launched a record 222 NFOs in 2025 till November, raising Rs 63,631 crore. Index funds dominated launches, while sectoral and thematic schemes attracted the highest inflows, highlighting investor preference for targeted and passive strategies.
HDFC Mutual Fund announces change in fund managers for its 3 equity funds as Roshi Jain exits
HDFC Mutual Fund has reshuffled fund managers for three key equity schemes effective December 8, 2025, following the exit of Roshi Jain, while all scheme terms and investment objectives remain unchanged.
How equity and gold SIPs can turn Rs 24,000 into Rs 6 crore in nearly 2 decades
Long-term wealth hinges on disciplined SIP investing, regular step-ups and diversification. A 22-year equity-focused SIP, complemented by gold allocation and annual contribution increases, can significantly enhance retirement corpus while countering inflation.
8th Pay Commission: How fitment factor is determined and how it affects salarieswhat we know
The 8th Pay Commission, recently approved by the Union Cabinet, seeks to adjust salaries and pensions using a fitment factor influenced by inflation. Projections suggest a factor of 1.83 to 2.57, affecting around one crore government employees and retirees.
Aadhaar-PAN linking mandatory by 31 December 2025 here's a last-minute guide for taxpayers
Taxpayers must link Aadhaar with PAN by 31 December 2025 to maintain PAN validity. The process can be completed online, requiring a valid PAN, Aadhaar number, and mobile number.
Personal loan cooling-off period explained: Bank-wise cancellation charges
Banks usually allow borrowers to cancel their personal loans, if required, during the cooling-off period with no or low charges.
UTI Mutual Fund announces change in symbols of ETFs across NSE and BSE
UTI AMC has revised the trading symbols of select equity, debt, and commodity ETFs listed on NSE and BSE, effective December 24, 2025. The new naming convention adds a BETA suffix to improve clarity, consistency, and ease of identification, with no change to investment objectives or portfolios.
2025 mutual fund scorecard: Top performers, laggards, and key surprises
In 2025, equity performance varied significantly with silver funds leading at 128% returns. Large and midcap funds excelled due to quality stock selection, while smallcap funds struggled.
Mutual fund AUM set to surpass Rs 300 trillion by 2035: ICRA Analytics
The Indian mutual fund industry continues its robust growth trajectory, with AUM rising to Rs 81 trillion by November 2025, driven by strong retail participation, SIP inflows, and digital adoption. Flexicap, multi-cap, and smallcap funds led equity growth, while debt and money market funds delivered steady returns. Industry outlook remains bullish.
Personal loan after death: Who pays, who doesnt, and what banks wont tell you
On the borrowers death, the bank asks the co-applicant or guarantor to pay, or recovers the personal loan amount from the deceased persons estate.
Precious metals lead, mid caps power equity returns in 10 years
Gold and silver topped long-term returns over a decade, while equities across market caps created wealth with volatility and debt delivered steady performance.
Market-first vs goal-first: Financial planning should start with required rate of return
The financial planning in India needs to move away from being product-centric to problem-centric.
RBL launches NOVA Credit Card: Travel & lifestyle benefits explained Should you apply?
The NOVA Credit Card is a luxury credit card that offers accelerated reward points on travel, airport lounge access, low forex markup, golf rounds, and more, designed for those looking to transform everyday moments into milestones.
Logan Paul purchased the Pikachu Illustrator card for millions of dollars four years back, during which he broke a Guinness World Record for the most expensive Pokmon trading card sold in a private auction.
Why have multi-asset allocation mutual funds been best performers in 2025?
Multi-asset allocation funds outperformed equity funds in 2025, driven by strong gains in gold and silver and dynamic asset allocation strategies.
Silver ETFs deliver over 160% return in 2025. Is more shine left?
Silver ETFs have surged over 160% in 2025 amid record-high silver prices, driven by strong industrial demand, supply tightness, and safe-haven buying, with experts advising partial profit-booking and disciplined portfolio rebalancing.
Best medium duration mutual funds to invest in December 2025
As per Sebi mandate, medium duration funds must invest in debt and money market instruments with Macaulay duration of three to four years. As you can see, these schemes are suitable for investors looking to invest for three to four years or more. However, you should check the portfolio duration of the scheme to ensure that the scheme is in line with your investment horizon.
Income Tax Refund Status LIVE: I-T department has issued most of the tax refunds for the people who had filed their income tax returns (ITRs) this year, but some have been delayed. Heres a quick guide to help you check your ITR status online.
The Income Tax Department has notified taxpayers via email and SMS that their refunds are being held due to discrepancies in their ITR filings. Many affected individuals are seeking clarity and an extension before the 31 December deadline to correct their filings.
Critical illness claim rejected by insurer? Here's what you can do
Always read policy wording carefully, maintain complete medical documentation, and make use of the grievance and ombudsman mechanisms when needed.
Old vs new tax regime: Why PPF still holds ground while ELSS loses appeal
For many, the new tax regime's appeal lies in paying a lower or comparable amount of tax while avoiding the hassle of submitting proof for deductions.
FoF schemes with ease of investing, tax advantage draw new investors
Investors are increasingly choosing fund-of-funds schemes. These schemes offer automatic diversification and professional management. They also provide tax efficiency, especially for long-term holdings. First-time investors find them appealing due to their simplicity. Fund-of-funds schemes invest in a mix of other mutual fund schemes. This approach simplifies investment decisions for many.
Updated vs Revised ITR Income Tax Department gives the taxpaying citizen an opportunity to file a revised income tax return (ITR) and an updated ITR. Here's what taxpayers should know about their differences ahead of the 31 December deadline.
Income tax refund failed? Here's a step-by-step guide for taxpayers to request refund reissue
Most taxpayers have received their ITR returns, but some still await refunds. If refunds fail, taxpayers can request reissue via the e-filing portal, ensuring bank details are correct.
How many times can you file a revised income tax return? Here's what I-T Department says
Taxpayers can rectify errors in income tax returns by filing revised returns ahead of the deadline. The Income Tax Department has not prescribed any limits on filing revised returns.
Who needs to file revised ITR after Income Tax Department's message?
The Income Tax Department has alerted many taxpayers that their refunds are on hold due to ITR mismatches. The identified taxpayers must file revised returns by 31 December 2025, or face additional tax liabilities.
When buying insurance, why honesty is the best policy for claims and coverage
Concealing health details may help secure a policy, but it can derail claims later. Why full disclosurenot approvalis the real test of a successful health insurance plan.
Tax benefits on loans explained: Home, education, vehicle and personal loans
The article highlights tax benefits for various loans, focusing on home loans, education loans, vehicle loans, and personal loans.
Does holding a joint account with parents create tax liability for NRIs?
Many NRIs are unsure about the tax implications of operating family accounts. Heres clarity on beneficial ownership rules and key reporting requirements.
Income Tax Refund Rule: If your ITR does not get processed by 31 December 2026, or within the relevant deadline for previous assessment years, the CPC has to forfeit its right to the ITR.
Got income tax alert for filing revised ITR before 31 December? Step-by-step process explained
While filing ITR initially, taxpayers can often overlook certain things or make mistakes. However, the mistakes in the ITR filing can be corrected. Under Section 139(5) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, taxpayers are given the opportunity to file a revised income tax return.
Gold in your portfolio: What to expect from the safe-haven asset in volatile times
While most experts remain optimistic about gold, citing a macroeconomic backdrop that continues to favor it, some warn of short-term risks.
5 practical steps to avoid legal action after a personal loan default
A personal loan default can lead to legal action, but timely communication, repayment planning, restructuring options and understanding recovery rules can help borrowers reduce risk and protect credit health.
Lumpsum investments disappoint many MF investors in 2025. Will 2026 be different?
Lumpsum mutual fund investments in 2025 yielded mixed results, with some schemes delivering negative returns up to 20%. This divergence highlights timing risk in volatile markets. While SIPs offered a less volatile approach, selective lumpsum investments in 2026, particularly in large and flexi-cap funds, are advised.
The BSE Sensex has achieved remarkable wealth creation over four decades. It has grown from a modest start to a lifetime high, transforming into a democratized wealth engine for millions. This journey reflects India's economic transformation and its rise as a global powerhouse. The Sensex has become a true barometer of the Indian economy.
Sensex gains over 100 pts, Nifty tops 26,200 on US economic growth optimism
Indian stocks edged higher on Wednesday, with the Sensex and Nifty steadying after a flat close. Stronger U.S. economic growth data boosted risk appetite, though foreign fund outflows and thin year-end trading volumes tempered the optimism.
Income Tax Refund LIVE Updates: The income tax department has reportedly started sending bulk SMS and emails to taxpayers, saying that their refunds had been put on hold due to risk management measures.
Vietnam's stock market rises on signs of smooth power transition
Vietnam's stock market hit a record high, extending its weekly rally as investors reacted positively to signs of political stability. A senior Communist Party meeting agreed on candidates for the next leadership, with party chief To Lam widely expected to retain his powerful post.
Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company shares are set to be in focus after the company rejected allegations of governance lapses, reaffirmed its guidance and highlighted strong liquidity and capital buffers. Brokerages including Motilal Oswal, Morgan Stanley and Jefferies reiterated their positive stance, citing improving disbursements and resilient fundamentals.
Goldman Sachs has initiated coverage on PhysicsWallah with a Neutral rating and a 135 target price, citing strong execution and a large market opportunity. It expects 24% revenue CAGR and over 80% EBITDA CAGR during FY2530, driven by organic traffic, a stable competitive landscape, and a scalable pricing model.
Hindustan Zinc shares jump 4% as silver prices breach $72 mark, rally over 140% in 2025
Hindustan Zinc shares: Silver prices hit record highs above $72/oz, up over 140% in 2025. The surge is driven by strong industrial demand, supply constraints, safe-haven buying, and expectations of looser US monetary policy, with MCX silver also touching fresh all-time highs in India.
NLC India among 7 stocks flashing bullish signals, indicating possible uptrend
Seven NSE-listed stocks with market capitalisation above Rs 1,000 crore signalled bullish momentum on 23 December after forming White Marubozu patterns. This candlestick formation reflects strong buying interest throughout the session, suggesting buyers remained in control from open to close and indicating potential continuation of the prevailing uptrend.
Ambuja Cements among 5 F&O stocks that saw a high increase in futures open interest
As of December 23, five stocks in the NSE F&O segment recorded a sharp rise in futures open interest, signalling fresh derivatives activity. A rise in open interest reflects increasing participation, with traders either initiating new positions or expanding existing exposure, pointing to stronger conviction on near-term price direction.
Coal India shares jump over 1% after in-principle nod for listing of MCL, SECL
Coal India share price: In a significant boost for investors, Coal India has seen its shares gain traction after the announcement of plans to list its subsidiaries, Mahanadi Coalfields Limited and South Eastern Coalfields Limited. This strategic initiative aligns with directives from the Ministry of Coal, paving the way for further communications with the Ministry regarding submissions to DIPAM.
Several taxpayers who filed their income tax returns (ITR) in September for the Assessment Year 2025-26 are waiting for their refunds to be credited. Here's all you need to know about the process.
Taxpayers can claim deductions not reported to employers while filing their income tax returns, even after the employer's TDS calculation. The final deadline for belated returns is 31 December, allowing corrections for missed claims.
The Income Tax Department is reportedly holding taxpayers' ITR refunds, citing discrepancies in their claims. Many taxpayers are frustrated with the alerts and the short timeframe to revise returns, by 31 December 2025.
Income Tax Return: Here's what experts suggest taxpayers can do ahead of the 31 December 2025, if they miss the revised or belated ITR deadline. Check if you can revise your ITR after the December time limit.
Amid rising pollution, is green real estate in Delhi-NCR a smart investment?
As air quality worsens, sustainable housing could offer health benefits, regulatory readiness and long-term value.
Income tax alert: Disclose foreign assets and income in revised ITR by December 31
Taxpayers must disclose foreign assets and income in revised ITR by December 31. Failure to report can lead to penalties.
PAN-Aadhaar linking: Will your PAN card get deactivated if not linked to Aadhaar by 31st December?
Your PAN will be rendered inoperative after 31 December if not linked with Aadhaar. There are several consequences of getting your PAN inoperative, including penalties.
The NPS makeover and retirement security
Recent reforms have addressed long-standing concerns around lock-ins, annuitization and equity exposure, strengthening the case for NPS as a retirement vehicle.
Flexi cap funds attracted Rs 70,959 crore in 2025 as investors sought flexibility in a volatile market. Experts say the categorys appeal lies in fund managers ability to shift between large, mid and small caps as conditions change. SIPs and long-term horizons remain key for investors using flexi caps as core equity holdings.
Best gilt mutual funds to invest in December 2025
Gilt mutual funds may deliver strong gains when the RBI begins cutting interest rates, but they are highly sensitive and suited only for informed, risk-taking debt investors. Gilt funds are debt mutual funds that invest in government securities or G-secs. As per Sebi norms, these schemes must invest 80% of their corpus in government securities.
Big flames die fast: Lessons from 2025 for the investor in 2026
Indias long-term story remains strong. Real growth is healthy, and corporate balance sheets are cleaner than most global peersand at their all time best.
Why 2025 was a turning point for tax planning and investments
Changes in income tax law and new regime have done away with the year-end rush for investments to save on tax. But experts still advise active tax planning and asset allocation.
Should investors consider Nifty Next 50 Index fund for their portfolio?
Investors can consider the Nifty Next 50 Index fund for a contrarian investment. Its recent underperformance compared to Nifty 50, coupled with attractive valuations, presents an opportunity. The index offers exposure to high growth sectors and a unique risk-return profile. Wealth managers suggest staggering investments over the next three months, potentially accumulating during market corrections.
Application submission for the Kerala government's Sthree Suraksha Scheme has reportedly begun. The state government had earlier released the guidelines and norms related to the implementation of the scheme.
Warren Buffett believes that big opportunities are rare and must be seized, but decisions should be well thought out and considered rather than impulsive, if you want to make money.
Best corporate bond mutual funds to invest in December 2025
Investors seeking relatively safe debt options for short- to medium-term goals can consider corporate bond mutual funds in December 2025. These funds invest largely in AAA-rated papers, offering lower credit risk than other debt schemes, though investors must still track interest rate risks and fund manager prudence.
Why doing nothing is the hardestand smartestinvesting skill
Buffett's insights highlight that the flashing ticker of stock markets can create a false sense of urgency for investors. He advocates for reduced exposure to market ticker and patience, arguing that waiting for the right opportunity is key to successful investing.
When a reporting lapse can turn honest taxpayers into black money accused
Taxpayers face severe penalties for failing to disclose foreign assets, even inadvertently. A Mumbai executive received a 40 lakh fine under the Black Money Act despite no income from his holdings.

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