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Can you still claim money from a dormant bank account? RBI says yes here's how
Forgotten savings still belong to you. Dormant bank account rules in India explain how to recover unclaimed deposits from the RBIs DEAF fund with simple verification and KYC steps. Understand the rules, build knowledge and take steps to reclaim your funds.
DA hike: States hike dearness allowance for employees, pensioners Check full list here
The Centre increased the Dearness Allowance to 60% effective January 1, impacting millions of central government employees and pensioners. Following this, various states and organizations, including Indian Railways and the IBA, announced hikes. Here's a look:
NRI sending money to parents in India: Are overseas transfers taxable?
Indians working abroad can send money home tax-free to parents, as long as they are classified as specified relatives. While remittances are not taxed, income from investments made with that money may be taxable. Details here.
Skip the paperwork with these must-have government apps in India that simplify digital payments, travel, transport services, and secure document storage for a faster and smarter digital lifestyle.
MSMEs need more than loans; they need data-driven credit pathways
MSMEs face challenges in obtaining loans due to informal income records. Data-driven lending utilizes bank statements and AI to assess creditworthiness, enabling personalized loan products. This approach supports financial inclusion, ensuring that lenders understand repayment capabilities.
Can you afford a Japan trip on a 10 lakh salary? I asked ChatGPT and Gemini
I asked ChatGPT and Gemini if I can afford to travel to Japan on a yearly salary of 10 lakh. The chatbots outlined a blueprint for me to follow.
What does a credit score enquiry really mean for you?
A lender just accessed your credit report. Before you panic or ignore it here's what a credit enquiry actually means for your score and your financial life.
Who are Indias biggest mutual fund managers? Check the top 10 names
ICICI Prudential Mutual Funds Sankaran Naren emerged as the top mutual fund manager by assets under management in the March 2026 quarter, overseeing Rs 1.59 lakh crore. The list of top fund managers managing over Rs 1 lakh crore AUM also included Rajeev Thakkar, Chirag Setalvad, Amit Ganatra, Shreyash Devalkar, and Sailesh Raj Bhan.
ATM cash not dispensed but amount was debited? 6 steps you should take immediately
ATM cash not dispensed but amount debited can cause stress, but RBI rules ensure refunds. Immediate proof saving, complaint filing and escalation help secure quick reversal of funds.
From petrol and milk to daily essentials, households are feeling the impact of rising prices due to the war in West Asia. But which top 5 products exactly got costlier and cheaper in April 2026? Lets explore this.
As petrol and diesel prices rise again, economists warn the impact could soon spread beyond fuel pumps. From vegetables and groceries to transport, delivery services and manufacturing costs, higher diesel prices are expected to push inflation higher across multiple sectors of the economy.
8th Pay Commission fitment factor demands spark hopes of a major salary rise, with proposals from 3.0 to 4.0 set to reshape pensions, allowances and minimum basic pay.
Explained: What are REITs and how do they work? Heres what investors should know
Investors can now gain real estate exposure through REITs, an alternative to direct property purchase. These trusts pool funds to invest in income-generating properties like offices and malls. REITs offer potential returns between fixed deposits and equities, with yields ranging from 6% to 9%. They distribute a significant portion of rental income to unit holders, providing periodic payouts.
Cashless health claim approved at admission, rejected at discharge? Heres why
Irdais 1-hour cashless approval rule has sped up claim decisions, but many policyholders now face sudden rejections during treatment or at discharge.
Gold and silver prices on MCX declined due to profit booking amid rising inflation concerns triggered by escalating US-Iran tensions. Silver prices fell more than 1% to 2.73 lakh per kilogram on MCX, pressured by a stronger US dollar and elevated crude oil prices
Insurance Ombudsman: Should policyholders be allowed professional representation?
A Karnataka High Court ruling allowing legal representation before the insurance ombudsman has reignited debate over whether the systems promise of speedy dispute resolution comes at the cost of fairness for policyholders.
Heres what you need to know about this months Social Security payments.
ITR filing 2026: How to e-verify your return? 5 key points to know
As taxpayers prepare to file income tax returns, e-verification is essential for validity. Failure to e-verify may result in penalties or delayed refunds. Details here.
A small savings scheme provided by India Post, Kisan Vikas Patra is offering 7.50% interest this quarter. Over a full term, it promises to double your investment. Here's how investors can apply for KVP at your nearest post office
Freelancer tax guide: How to report overseas client income and pay taxes in India
Freelancers in India earning from foreign clients must report this income on their tax returns, as it is fully taxable. They can opt for presumptive taxation under Section 44ADA if conditions are met. Details here.
Employees Provident Fund: Here's how EPF subscribers can file a grievance or complaint with EPFO, the retirement fund body. We take you through the step-by-step process and social media alternatives.
Taxpayers can log into the official e-filing portal for assessment year 2026-27, and the tax department has issued clarifications. So, here are the precautions you should take while filing your income-tax returns (ITR):
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is launching two New Jeevan Sathi joint life insurance plans Single Premium and Limited Premium in June 2026. Check eligibility, policy features, benefits and more
Can recovery agents threaten or harass you? Here's what the new RBI rules say no excessive calls
RBIs 2026 recovery rules aim to curb harassment and strengthen borrower protection, with strict action against intimidation by banks and NBFC agents. Recovery agents cannot harass borrowers, while borrowers must also understand and fulfil their financial responsibilities.
How to avoid TDS deduction on EPF withdrawal: Eligibility and rules explained
Withdrawing from your EPF before five years may incur TDS if the amount is over 50,000. Exemptions exist for those with nil tax liability who can submit Form 121. Details here.
20/4/10 rule explained: How this budgeting formula can prevent car loan stress
Hooked on a shiny car but worried about loan stress? Start with the 20/4/10 rule to protect your finances: 20% down payment, 4-year loan, and total car costs under 10% of your monthly income. Read on to understand the basic concepts before you lock in with a fresh car loan EMI.
Rupee near record low How it impacts your daily expenses, investments, travel, and EMIs
If you feel that weaker rupee is just a macroeconomic factor and staying behind the picture, here's a reality check. Here's how it could impact your daily life, from investments, travel, to your EMIs.
8th pay commission: Here's how central government employees, pensioners, representative groups, unions and stakeholders can submit their feedback to the 8th CPC online. Check the step-by-step guide here
Indians sending money abroad for various purposes must comply with new income tax forms 145 and 146, replacing Forms 15CA and 15CB. Details here.
Top 5 silver ETFs by lowest tracking error that closely mirror silver prices
Tracking error is one of the most important factors to check while choosing a silver ETF. It shows how closely an ETF follows the actual movement of silver prices. A lower tracking error means the ETF is doing a better job in mirroring silver prices.
The job market is changing; AI is prompting me to adapt by enhancing my skills and expanding my network. Check how ChatGPT helped me improve my job search.
8th Pay Commission updates: Delay in wage revision could increase govt's fiscal costs, says expert
Momentum around the 8th Pay Commission builds as consultations expand across states, with growing focus on salary revision, pensions, HRA and fiscal planning for government employees.
DA, DR hike: Difference between dearness allowance and dearness relief, explained
Dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) are salary components for central government employees and pensioners, revised biannually based on inflation both aimed at offsetting cost-of-living increases.
Paytms Pocket Money feature allows teenagers to pay without bank account
The 'Pocket Money' feature from Paytm enables teenagers to use UPI payments while parents maintain control over spending. With limits on transactions and monthly spending, it fosters responsible money management and provides real-time visibility into a teen's spending patterns via the Paytm app.
NPS vs NPS Sanchay: Key differences between the two retirement schemes explained
The National Pension System (NPS) is a popular retirement scheme in India. PFRDA introduced NPS Sanchay for informal sector workers, differing from regular NPS in eligibility and structure.
Sebi has uncovered a stock manipulation scam involving unregistered finfluencers who misled retail investors via social media, earning over 20 crore in illegal profits. The case highlights rising risks of social media stock fraud and the need for stronger investor awareness.
HDFC Flexi Cap among 7 mutual funds that multiplied investors money up to 17x in 20 years
The hidden cost of carrying your home loan
Equity investing will continue to create wealth into the future. But when the spread between borrowing costs and expected returns narrows, balance sheet strength is just as important as portfolio returns, if not more.
Direct stocks or mutual funds? Expert shares strategy to achieve Rs 7 crore goal in 12 years
An investor's mutual fund portfolio was reviewed, revealing a need for better alignment with long-term goals. Experts advised shifting focus from direct equities to mutual funds, increasing SIPs annually, and diversifying beyond momentum-based index funds to achieve a Rs 7 crore target.
If you purchased gold, how did the import duty change affect your gold purchase locally? The import duty prices are included by the jeweller in the gold prices, which also fluctuate based on other conditions.
Mutual funds are cutting exit loads. What does this mean for your investments?
Fund houses across India are trimming or removing exit loads, the charges levied when you redeem your fund units before a specified holding period - usually one year - is up.
The rising costs of everyday goods are hitting households hard, with global shipping bottlenecks and increased fuel prices as key culprits. Experts warn that this inflationary pressure will soon affect everything from grocery bills to loan interest rates.
5 powerful ways to improve your SIP performance and build long-term wealth faster
One of the biggest mistakes people make while doing SIP is sticking to the same amount for years. When inflation is rising, lifestyle changes, and salary increases, then you should also consider increasing your SIP contribution.
SIP can help you build a 1 crore education corpus for your child through early compounding heres how
SIP investing for your childs education can build a 1 crore corpus through the power of early compounding. Starting an SIP early reduces the monthly burden and ensures longterm financial security for your child.
Top NPS equity funds offer up to 15% returns in 3 years. Heres the list
Can salary-linked SIPs transform mutual fund investing for salaried Indians? Experts weigh in
Sebi has proposed a framework allowing salaried employees to invest in mutual funds through salary deductions, similar to EPF and NPS. This initiative aims to simplify investing for first-time users, potentially reducing SIP stoppages and boosting monthly inflows by offering a disciplined, automated savings channel.
Best gilt mutual funds to invest in May 2026
Gilt funds are gaining traction among aggressive debt investors. Advisors suggest these funds could deliver strong returns if the RBI cuts interest rates. Gilt funds invest in government securities, carrying no credit risk but high sensitivity to interest rate changes. Investors should be aware of the risks and have a long-term view.
Can NRIs get Indian credit cards? Heres what banks dont tell you
Premium Indian credit cards can offer NRIs strong rewards, travel perks and family supportbut forex fees, KYC norms and eligibility rules can complicate the math.
A 10-year SIP investor has zero chance of losing money, while a 4-year investor has an 80% probability of earning over 10%. The ET WealthCrisil SIP Study 2026 crunches the numbersand this year, puts them through a market crash.
Higher NPS returns: The PFRDA has sets up a panel to explore adding more asset classes to the national pension scheme to improve returns for pensioners, according to Chairman S Ramann. Here's all we know
How to move your PPF account between banks or post offices; Can it transferred to another person?
PPF account holders can transfer their accounts between banks and post offices without losing continuity. However, it cannot be transferred from one individual to another. Details here.
EPFO: What is scheme certificate, why do EPF members need it, and who is eligible? Top FAQs answered
EPFO: The Employee Provident Fund Organisation issues scheme certificate to EPF account holders. Here's why you may need it, when it is issued to members, who is eligible and other such FAQs answered
Buying a flat? Heres what no EMI till possession actually means
Real estate developers offer 'no EMI till possession' schemes to attract buyers, allowing them to defer home loan payments until property completion. Here's how it works.
PPF vs SIPs: Here's how much corpus an investment of 2,000 per month for 30 years give you?
PPF vs SIPs: Planning your long-term investments? Take a look at how much corpus is generated from an investment of 2,000 per month for 30 years with the public provident fund and in mutual funds through systematic investment plans.
8th central pay commission: Here's how employee groups want pay structures to be changed, explained
8th central pay commission: Here's how the three big employee groups the NC-JCM, AIDEF and Maharashtra Old Pension Organisation, want central government employees' pay structures to be changed. We explain
How to update demat account details online? Complete guide for investors
Investors should keep their demat account information updated, especially KYC details. Changes in personal information must be promptly reported to avoid compliance issues. Here's how to update demat account details online.
How to redesign a 12 crore portfolio for clarity and long-term stability
A 42-year-old entrepreneur with 12 crore across equity, real estate and debt wants simplicity. Heres how to declutter holdings, align with goals, and structure surplus wealth smartly.
Dearness Allowance: Tripura has declared a 5% increase in the DA component of basic pay for state government employees, hiking salaries and pension payout of retirees from 1 April. Here's all we know
Switching brokers or gifting stock? Heres how to transfer shares to a new demat account
Investors may transfer shares between demat accounts for various reasons, such as switching brokers or gifting. Transfers can be done either through the online or offline method.
Gold ETF vs EGR vs digital gold: Whats the smarter way to invest in yellow metal?
There are several ways to invest in gold, including Gold ETFs, Electronic Gold Receipts, and Digital Gold. But which option is best for regularly investing your surplus monthly income? Lets explore.
Credit card fees and charges: Here are top things to watch for to manage credit effectively
Credit cards incur various fees such as joining, annual, transaction, cash advance, and late payment charges. Fees can vary widely and may be waived based on spending. Understanding these costs is essential for managing credit effectively.
Equity MFs gain over 5% last week with international funds leading. Check top 7 with over 3% return
Top 5 flexi cap mutual funds to consider for SIP in a volatile market
Flexi cap funds are types of equity mutual funds that invest at least 65% of their collected money in equity and related instruments. They invest across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks.
These 5 largecap mutual funds delivered over 20% annualised returns in 3 years
5 equity mutual funds offer over 19% annualised return on SIP investments in 10 years. Check details
I gave ChatGPT a 10,000 budget for a summer trip Heres whether It chose Goa or Puducherry
Goa is ideal for energetic group vacations with nightlife and beach activities, while Puducherry offers affordability and relaxation. Goa's costs range 10,000- 12,000, whereas Puducherry can fit within 8,000- 10,000, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers seeking a peaceful experience.
On May 24, gold prices in India remained stable with 24-karat gold at 159,340 per 10 grams. Silver prices also showed limited movement. The MCX is closed on weekends, affecting live trading rates.
Madhya Pradesh's Ladli Behna Yojana offers 1,250 monthly to over 1.25 crore women. Government employees are ineligible, while salaried women in private jobs can apply if their family income is below 2.5 lakhs. The scheme promotes women's economic empowerment since its launch in June 2023.
Investing through SIPs, it's essential to prioritize consistency and cash flow over frequency. Monthly SIPs are preferred for their efficiency and discipline, offering similar long-term returns as daily SIPs, while quarterly SIPs may underperform due to longer idle periods before investment.
US-focused funds have outperformed Indian equities over the past decades, raising questions on allocation. Abhishek Kumar warns against excessive investment in US equities, advocating for a 5-15% allocation for diversification while noting the risks and tax implications for Indian investors.
The most honest market advice right now: I dont know
As markets grapple with war, oil shocks and uncertainty, the temptation to forecast grows. But the most valuable advice may still be the simplest: stay invested and admit what no one knows.
Bank holiday next week: SBI, HDFC, others closed on these days between 25 and 31 May; check here
India's banks will be closed for two days next week, including May 27 for Bakrid. The RBI has declared nine holidays this month. Online banking remains operational during these closures, allowing customers to conduct transactions anytime.
What happens if you file the wrong ITR form? Consequences and how to fix it
The Income Tax department has notified ITR forms for FY 2025-26. Taxpayers must select appropriate forms to avoid defects that delay processing and refunds. Here's what happens if a person files the wrong ITR form.
In Bengaluru, high living costs limit savings for professionals. A ChatGPT inquiry about spending 20,000 monthly on an iPhone or investing it reveals significant financial implications, with potential wealth loss of 1417 lakh over five years if not invested.
Short on capital to buy stocks? Heres how margin trading facility can help
Margin Trading Facility (MTF) allows investors to buy stocks by paying a portion upfront, with brokers funding the rest. While it offers opportunities, it carries risks as borrowed amounts incur interest. Details here.
ChatGPTs opening response was direct and reassuring: Your goal should be to double your savings from 25,000 to around 50,000 per month
No Will? The crucial need for succession planning among modern women
For a Hindu woman dying intestate (without a Will), the legal line of succession depends entirely on the asset's originspecifically distinguishing between self-acquired and inherited property
Can freelancers use presumptive taxation under Section 44ADA? Rules explained
Freelancers in India can simplify tax filings using Section 44ADA, allowing them to declare at least 50% of gross receipts as taxable income. Details here.
Foreign investors have withdrawn over 2,20,000 crore from Indian equities in 2026, influenced by high oil prices and inflation. How should retail investors navigate this situation? Read to know
Bandhan Small Cap among top 5 smallcap funds with highest risk-adjusted returns. Check details
Bandhan Small Cap Fund topped the list of small cap schemes with the highest Sharpe ratio, indicating superior risk-adjusted returns over three years. ITI Small Cap Fund, Invesco India Smallcap Fund and two smallcap index funds also delivered strong performance with balanced risk metrics.
Can every EPF subscriber claim pension after retirement? Rules explained
The EPF scheme supports retirement savings with both employees and employers contributing 12% of basic salary. The EPS provides pensions for eligible employees after retirement. Details here.
PPFAS Mutual Fund introduces choti SIP in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap, Large Cap and 3 other schemes
PPFAS Mutual Fund introduced the Rs 250 choti SIP facility across five schemes to encourage first-time investors and improve financial inclusion. The initiative allows eligible investors to start monthly SIPs with low-ticket investments under specific conditions prescribed by SEBI and AMFI.
Retirement planning: We asked experts how much corpus a 27-year-old freelancer, living in Chennai and planning to retire to Munnar, will require to support parents and slow work by 55 years of age. Here's what they said
Does debit card EMI affect your credit score? Everything you need to know
Debit card EMI influences credit score based on repayment behaviour, with timely payments improving credit profile while defaults or multiple loans may negatively affect borrowing capacity across financial institutions.
With a dedicated credit limit for business expenses, the card can be used across a wide range of expenses including office supplies, digital marketing spends, SaaS subscriptions, and business travel.
Thailand is ideal for nightlife and shopping, while Vietnam excels in affordability and culture, making it the best value. Sri Lanka offers a peaceful holiday. For 50,000, Vietnam provides a premium experience with quality accommodation and food.
Why the first crore feels slow, but the next comes faster 8-4-3 rule of compounding explained
Investing benefits from compounding over time, highlighted by the '8-4-3 rule' which shows how wealth accelerates. FundsIndia's report emphasizes patience, revealing that equities show true potential after seven years, with returns significantly outweighing contributions in the long run.
Financial experts advise first-time SIP investors to focus on diversified equity mutual funds for long-term goals, avoid panic during volatility, limit exposure to sectoral funds, and rely on professional fund managers for balanced asset allocation and disciplined wealth creation over time.
Missed a home loan EMI? Here are smart steps to avoid credit damage and manage loan repayment stress
Missing a home loan EMI can hurt your credit score and weaken your financial stability. Timely communication with your lender, smart repayment planning and expert financial advice can help you manage the situation effectively.
