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8th Pay Commission Basics: A look at its composition, functioning and latest updates
8th Pay Commission updates outline composition, functioning and consultation process for salary and pension revision framework for central government employees and pensioners in the country.
New labour code: What changes for your earned leave and encashment under the latest laws explained
The OSH Code introduces significant changes to leave policies, allowing workers to carry forward up to 30 days of leave and encash excess leave. Here are more details about the provision and who it applies to.
Credit card fraud is rising: Types, warning signs and expert tips to protect your finances
Credit card fraud is a growing threat, often unnoticed until significant damage occurs. Reporting fraud promptly, understanding various fraud types, and consistently monitoring credit activity can help protect individuals from financial losses and maintain peace of mind.
Mutual fund SIP stoppage ratio surged to 100% in March as discontinued SIPs outpaced new registrations, even though monthly SIP contributions hit a record Rs 32,087 crore. Overall investor participation remained strong, with equity inflows extending their multi-year positive streak and SIP accounts nearing 9.72 crore, reflecting sustained long-term investment appetite.
Want to invest 1 lakh? Here's how FD laddering will help you maximise gains
Bank FD laddering is a technique that involves buying multiple FDs maturing in different time periods. Personal Finance experts suggest that investors seeking to invest in bank fixed deposits for a longer period may consider a ladder strategy.
General Provident Fund or GPF is the provident fund meant exclusively for government employees. Under this compulsory savings scheme, every government employee must contribute a portion of their pay to save towards their future.
DA hike delayed for first time in a decade Will it be skipped or deferred? Experts weigh in
Uncertainty surrounds the DA hike delay. Experts describe it as a procedural deferment rather than a cancellation, adding that arrears are expected and that the inflation-linked revision will likely be implemented retrospectively across central government salaries and pensions.
How to pay zero income tax on 15.85 lakh salary under new tax regime
Meal vouchers, NPS and smart salary structuring can legally bring your taxable income below 12 lakh and reduce your tax to zero
Mutual fund SIP inflows rise 8% to hit all-time high of Rs 32,087 crore in March
Mutual fund SIP inflows reached a record Rs 32,087 crore in March. Equity fund inflows surged by 56%. Flexi cap funds led the equity category. Conversely, debt mutual funds experienced a significant outflow of Rs 2.94 lakh crore. Liquid funds saw the largest redemptions. This marks a notable shift in investor sentiment.
March AMFI Data: Equity mutual fund inflows soar 56% MoM to Rs 40,450 crore; flexicaps top charts
Indian equity mutual funds saw a significant surge in March, with inflows climbing 56% to Rs 40,450 crore, driven by strong performance in flexicap, smallcap, and midcap categories. Conversely, debt funds experienced a substantial outflow of Rs 2.94 lakh crore, while hybrid funds also saw a net outflow.
Bandhan Small Cap among 5 smallcap MFs offering up to 28% CAGR over 3 years
Quant Small Cap Fund saw focused buying in financials and smallcaps in March, adding Safari Industries and avoiding any portfolio exits.
Samir Arora-backed Helios Flexi Cap Fund adds nearly 13 lakh shares of HDFC Bank, exits IOC & HPCL
Samir Arora-backed Helios Flexi Cap Fund significantly increased its stake in HDFC Bank, adding nearly 13 lakh shares amidst a price decline. The fund also made a complete exit from Indian Oil Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation. Additionally, it boosted holdings in eight other stocks and introduced new ones like BSE and Solar Industries India.
Axis Mutual Fund launches defence index fund; NFO opens 10 April
Axis Nifty India Defence Index Fund NFO opens for subscription, tracking defence sector index amid rising global and domestic defence spending and policy support across the country.
PPFAS's Rajeev Thakkar reveals how they bought the March dip.
PPFAS has been using volatility to its advantage, deploying wherever it finds opportunities and selling wherever the opportunity comes, says its CIO Rajeev Thakkar
PFRDA launches NPS Swasthya, enabling subscribers to use retirement funds for healthcare
Powered by Medi Assists Maven infrastructure, the initiative enables eligible NPS subscribers to access a portion of their retirement corpus for hospitalisation expenses, while continuing to benefit from long-term market-linked growth.
Short-term debt funds offer opportunities as yields rise
Rising bond yields, influenced by elevated oil prices and West Asia tensions, present investment opportunities in debt schemes. Money managers suggest short-term debt funds and long-term government securities are best positioned to benefit. The Reserve Bank of India's stance on interest rates and inflation is expected to keep yields elevated, favoring shorter-maturity investments.
Corporate FD rates in April 2026: Bajaj Finance, Shriram Finance, Mahindra Finance among top NBFCs
Corporate fixed deposit rates in April 2026 offer competitive returns from leading NBFCs, with varied tenures, senior-citizen benefits, and key safety features for stable, predictable investment planning.
How will the new wage rule impact your April 2026 take-home salary? Use this calculator to find out
April 2026 salary changes under the new wage rule may shrink take-home pay while boosting employees' provident fund savings and long-term financial security.
NFO Alert : Kotak Mutual Fund launches Kotak Multi Asset Active FoF
Kotak Mutual Fund on Thursday announced the launch of the Kotak Multi Asset Active FOF, an open-ended fund of fund scheme investing in units of equity-oriented schemes, debt-oriented schemes and commodity-based schemes.
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund raises stakes in TCS, ITC and 14 other stocks in March
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund increased stakes in Tata Consultancy Services, ITC and 14 other stocks in March, while trimming only Balkrishna Industries. The fund raised holdings in HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Coal India and others, maintaining a diversified portfolio across 21 sectors.
Should you invest in multicap mutual funds? Heres how to decide
Multicap funds are gaining traction post market correction as a diversified investment route. However, their mandated exposure to large, mid, and smallcap stocks makes them vulnerable to volatility, especially during market downturns. These funds are best for investors comfortable with higher risk across market cycles.
Why US bond yields at 4.28% won't unlock a foreign capital wave into India
With the 10-year US Treasury yield hovering around 4.28%, the case for a meaningful, sustained influx of overseas capital into Indian markets remains dim. But why is it so?
Personal loan interest rates in April 2026 vary across top lenders, making comparison essential to reduce EMIs and total cost while considering fees, tenure, and any hidden charges.
Silver and gold ETFs saw significant drops on Thursday, shedding up to 4%, as MCX bullion prices followed global weakness. The US Federal Reserve's minutes signaled further rate hikes amid inflation concerns, while geopolitical risks from the Iran conflict also weighed on markets. Investors remain cautious, awaiting clarity on the US-Iran ceasefire.
Gold ETFs lose up to 6% since Mideast war. Should investors buy, hold or exit?
Gold ETFs have seen declines of up to 8% despite Middle East tensions, leaving investors uncertain. Experts advise against panic selling, recommending asset allocation and staggered buying for those at higher entry points. The recent ceasefire has caused a temporary rally, but long-term gold performance hinges on inflation and central bank policies.
Best large & mid cap funds to invest in April 2026
Large & mid cap mutual funds invest a minimum of 35% in both large and mid-cap stocks, offering a blend of stability and risk. Fund managers have flexibility with the remaining corpus, making these schemes suitable for aggressive investors with a long-term horizon willing to take on extra risk.
PPFAS Asset Management gets PFRDA approval to launch pension fund under NPS
The will now manage retirement savings via a dedicated pension fund, leveraging NPS tax benefits and long-term growth potential.
Gifting property to your spouse? The taxman is watching now
Sub-registrars must now report property gift deeds above 45 lakh to the tax department, bringing such transfers into taxpayers AIS and tightening scrutiny on clubbing-rule violations.
EPFO 3.0 aims to introduce simplified withdrawal rules, faster UPI-based fund access, and reduced documentation, enhancing provident fund efficiency, flexibility, and retirement security of members.
Is your KYC safe? 5 steps to check status and avoid mutual fund scams
Mutual fund KYC verification helps investors stay scam-free by ensuring updated records, understanding status categories, and following simple steps to maintain secure, compliant investments across the country.
Looking to invest in ETFs? Know 3 strategies to consider before you start
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) offer a passive investment approach, mirroring index performance and allowing investors to align choices with their time horizon and financial goals. A structured strategy, including regular investments via SIPs, can foster discipline and help achieve objectives. Understanding the tracked index is crucial for informed ETF selection.
PPFAS Asset Management gets approval to sponsor pension funds under NPS
PPFAS Asset Management has received approval from the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) today to become a sponsor for a pension fund under the National Pension System (NPS).
RBI MPC outcome: Experts explain what the rate pause means for investors
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India, in its bi-monthly review on Wednesday, decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% and maintained its neutral stance.
NFO Alert : Groww Mutual Fund launches arbitrage fund
Groww Mutual Fund has announced the launch of the Groww Arbitrage Fund, an open-ended scheme investing in arbitrage opportunities. The scheme is designed to capture pricing differences between the cash and derivatives markets, with the aim of generating relatively stable returns with limited directional equity risk.
RBI policy: Why the end of the Goldilocks phase isnt a jolt for investors
With growth holding steady and inflation remaining manageable, the central banks latest roadmap offers a reassuring path through global geopolitical volatility.
RBI holds repo rate at 5.25%: What it means for home loan borrowers and EMIs
RBI holds the repo rate at 5.25%, providing stability for home loan borrowers. This will ensure predictable EMIs, clarity and potential interest savings amid global economic uncertainties.
Sunil Singhania backed Abakkus Mutual Fund has unveiled the maiden portfolio of its smallcap fund - Abakkus Small Cap Fund, following an in-house investment framework viz. MEETS, to evaluate key drivers of long-term value creation. This marks the funds first update since its NFO.
Dark patterns that you need to watch out for while buying insurance
From pre-ticked add-ons to hidden renewal tweaks, insurance buyers face digital nudges that inflate premiums. Irdai calls for insurers to clean up dark patterns.
IRDAI forms sub-committee to strengthen health insurance ecosystem in India
IRDAI forms a sub-committee to strengthen the health insurance ecosystem, focusing on coverage, claims, and consumer experience to boost access, efficiency, and trust.
Retirement planning via mutual funds: How to achieve Rs 2 crore corpus
A 52-year-old investor aiming for a Rs 2 crore retirement corpus by age 60 faces a potential shortfall with his current Rs 30 lakh portfolio and Rs 40,000 monthly SIP. Experts advise simplifying the diversified portfolio, increasing SIPs by 8-10% annually, and gradually shifting towards debt for capital protection.
Best small cap mutual funds to invest in April 2026
Despite a challenging 2025 with negative returns, small cap mutual funds saw renewed investor interest in February 2026 with significant inflows. While valuations are considered rich and market volatility persists, advisors suggest staggered investments in these high-risk, high-reward schemes for long-term wealth creation.
Silver, gold ETFs rally up to 6% as Iran ceasefire eases inflation fears. Should you buy?
Silver and gold ETFs surged up to 6% on Wednesday, mirroring gains in global bullion markets. This rally followed U.S. President Trump's agreement to a two-week ceasefire with Iran, easing energy-driven inflation concerns. Experts suggest current levels offer an attractive consolidation zone for long-term investors.
Multicap funds gain traction, but risk from small-cap exposure persists
Multicap funds are gaining traction as a comprehensive investment option, offering exposure to large, mid, and small-cap stocks. However, regulatory mandates requiring significant allocation to smaller stocks make them more susceptible to market volatility and deeper drawdowns during corrections, unlike more flexible categories.
Tata Mutual Fund allows lumpsum investments in small-cap plan again
Tata Mutual Fund has reopened its small-cap fund to lumpsum investments. This move follows a market correction that has presented better entry points. The fund manager sees a favourable risk-reward for investors with a 3-5 year horizon. Other small-cap funds still have restrictions. The small-cap category manages significant assets.
Indian expats in Dubai: What happens if you don't have a will?
UAE succession laws have changed for non-Muslim expats. Heres what happens if you die intestate, how to register a Will in Dubai, and why Indian residents may need separate Wills.
How the new credit reporting cycle will rewire loans, EMIs and approvals
Weekly credit reporting is turning Indias loan approvals into near real-time decisionstightening discipline, curbing risky borrowing, and reshaping how lenders judge you.
Form 121 has replaced Form 15G and Form 15H, which must be submitted to avoid TDS. A single form removes confusion about which form is applicable and simplifies the submission process.
Why profitable MSMEs still run out of cash
Strong sales mask weak financial discipline, from poor cash flow tracking to GST lapses, leaving many small businesses locked out of credit.
Invesco India Mid Cap among 5 mid cap mutual funds to offer over 20% CAGR in 3 years
Five mid-cap mutual funds delivered over 20% returns in three years, led by WhiteOak Capital. Meanwhile, laggard funds posted modest gains, highlighting performance divergence within the mid-cap mutual fund category.
Thinking about chasing rallies in defence and energy? Experts warn against it.
The allure of war-led gains is drawing investors in, but history suggests that chasing these rallies often leads to sub-optimal returns.
New salary rules in India: What the 50% wage norm means for EPF, gratuity and take-home pay
Starting 1 April 2026, new labour reforms in India will change salary structures, potentially lowering take-home pay for many employees. Here's how the new rules impact EPF and gratuity.
Qsif Active Asset Allocator Long-Short Fund is open for subscription. 8 key things to know
Quant Mutual Fund launches dynamic multi-asset long-short fund, investing across equity, debt, derivatives, commodities and InVITs. The strategy aims to optimise returns, manage risk, and suit long-term investors.
5 equity mutual fund categories lose over 10% in 6 months. Time to review?
Portfolio in red after moving from FDs? Expert shares how to handle volatility and allocate smartly
A Gujarat-based investor, new to equity mutual funds after years in fixed deposits, faces initial losses but shows courage to invest further. Experts advise focusing on asset allocation across market caps rather than changing existing sound funds. Additional investments should be channeled into current flexi-cap and multi-cap schemes, with lumpsum considered if comfortable with volatility.
MF Tracker: Quant Multi Asset Allocation Fund shines across timeframes. Can it sustain the lead?
Quant Multi Asset Allocation Fund has achieved top returns across 3, 5, 7, and 10-year periods among its peers. Its dynamic asset allocation strategy, particularly overweight positions in financials and timely tactical shifts, has driven this consistent outperformance, even outshining the category average.
Fund managers back large-caps, stay wary of mid- & small caps
Following a market sell-off, fund managers indicate that share valuations are no longer stretched, though aggressive bets are still discouraged. While large-cap stocks have reached comfortable levels, skepticism remains for mid and small-cap segments. Investors are advised to stay invested and stagger entries through systematic or phased allocations.
Gold overdraft (OD) is a flexible credit facility from banks and NBFCs that allows you to have ongoing access to liquidity while leveraging household gold assets. Here's all you need to know about it
Retirement planning at 35: 7 steps to achieve financial freedom by 60
Financial independence by 60 can be achieved with early planning, disciplined savings, and smart investments. Starting at 35 maximises compounding benefits. By regularly evaluating strategies, people can secure a fulfilling retirement while navigating the challenges of personal finance in India.
FD rates comparison: Here's a look at the latest bank fixed deposit rates offered by the biggest lenders State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Yes Bank.
Gold flops and the three bears: navigating unpredictable havens
How gold, the traditional safe haven, struggled during the West Asia conflict and turned from 'hero' asset into a short-term flop.
Why your credit score matters in your home loan journey
A good credit score not only facilitates access to credit but also serves as a comprehensive indicator of an individual's financial behaviour and reliability, effectively functioning as a financial resume.
Whats your money personality? It may decide your market returns
When markets fall, behaviournot volatilitylocks in losses. Financial advisors are decoding money personalities to help investors manage fear, risk and long-term returns.
Looking where to invest lumpsum for 3 years? These 5 mutual funds lead the chart
Top mutual funds for three-year lumpsum investments delivered strong returns, led by gold funds with over 32% CAGR. Rs 1 lakh investments more than doubled, highlighting robust performance across categories.
Nearly 25 equity mutual funds have offered over 15% CAGR in the last three, five, seven, and 10 years, according to a data analysis by ETMutualFunds. There were around 160 funds that have completed 10 years of existence in the market.
Do UAE-based professionals pay tax on India workshop income?
Domestic tax rules may trigger liability, but DTAA relief can exempt income if stay and fixed-base conditions are not met.
Gratuity calculation rules: Is gratuity taxable? How is gratuity taxed in India? Explained
Since gratuity is a lumpsum amount, employees often receive a large sum at the end of their service to a company. This may raise the question is gratuity taxable?
Top 5 strategies for salaried professionals to manage monthly expenses and taxes efficiently in FY27
Salaried professionals can enhance financial stability by integrating monthly expense management with tax planning under the Income Tax Act 2025 to optimise savings and ensure cash flow efficiency.
Should you add multi-asset or balanced advantage mutual funds now to reduce volatility?
10 lakh health insurance: Is it enough in 2026 amid rising medical costs? 6 key factors to consider
10 lakh health insurance is increasingly seen as a base cover as medical inflation rises across the country, making higher coverage, top-ups, and policy features essential for adequate financial protection.
Silver ETFs tumble up to 15% in 2 months, domestic pricing rule kicks in. What should you do?
Silver exchange traded funds have seen significant losses, prompting investor concern. A new domestic pricing rule is now in effect. Experts suggest rebalancing portfolios and potentially reducing silver exposure. They recommend shifting towards diversified equity funds for long-term wealth creation. Gold ETFs are considered a more stable alternative for hedging.
Best large cap mutual funds to invest in April 2026
Mutual fund advisors are recommending large cap schemes for conservative investors amid market volatility and all-time highs. These funds invest in top 100 companies, offering relative safety and inflation-beating returns. Despite recent struggles to beat benchmarks, large cap funds remain a viable option for long-term goals, with specific schemes highlighted for April 2026.
How to lock in premiums and navigate portability while upgrading health insurance?
A 38-year-old with 10 lakh family cover weighs unlimited sum insured and multi-year health plans, seeking clarity on benefits, portability rules and upgrade flexibility.
EPFO 3.0 PF withdrawal rules: How much provident fund balance can you withdraw using ATM and UPI?
EPFO 3.0 features: One of the most significant changes under EPFO 3.0 is the availability of the option to withdraw PF money using ATM and UPI.
Gratuity payment: What are the new rules? How is gratuity calculated? Key FAQs answered
There are significant changes in gratuity rules for fixed-term employees. Employers are now required to pay gratuity on termination of contract of such employees after completion of one year of service.
HDFC Defence Fund among 13 equity MFs that delivered over 4% returns last week. Check top 5
Of the 614 funds analysed, 576 posted positive returns, one remained flat, and 37 delivered negative returns.
A loan against PPF is a facility available to all account holders who are not yet eligible for premature withdrawals. It allows you to borrow money against your PPF balance at a nominal interest rate
Positioning portfolio to navigate uncertainty
Amid the US- Iran war, trade disruptions and energy uncertainties, a common question persists: does this environment warrant a portfolio rethink?
How to plan summer holidays amid soaring airfares due to West Asia war
The West Asia war and rising fuel costs have pushed international airfares from India up by 30%, triggering a massive shift toward domestic tourism. Travellers are navigating a complex landscape of devalued currency and airspace closures.
