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I asked ChatGPT: How much emergency fund a family really needs in 2026, here what the math said
In 2026, a family in Noida should maintain an emergency fund of around 17 lakh, based on monthly expenses of 1.4 lakh. This amount provides a financial cushion for one year during unemployment, ensuring uninterrupted living costs.
The analysis shows that while a regular SIP can create significant wealth over the long term, investors who increase their SIP contributions periodically stand a much better chance of building a larger corpus.
The CBDT has revised HRA rules, expanding benefits for taxpayers in major urban areas and increasing compliance requirements. New metro cities added for HRA exemptions could lead to higher tax savings for employees in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad under the Old Tax Regime.
Many retirees struggle to enjoy their wealth, often due to ingrained saving habits from an era of scarcity. They prioritize saving for children over personal comfort, leading to diminished quality of life.
Should NRIs in Dubai use a UAE foundation for succession planning?
A UAE foundation can help NRI HNIs preserve and transfer family wealth efficiently through a separate legal structure, but it should be integrated with a local will and a broader estate plan.
Room rent cap, co-pay, deductibles - Hidden policy terms that impact hospital bill payouts
Health insurance buyers often overlook important policy clauses that can impact claim payouts, such as co-payments and exclusions. Understanding these details is essential to minimize out-of-pocket expenses during hospitalization.
India's urban evolution over two decades showcases expanding metro networks, startup hubs, and smart infrastructure. A survey evaluates cities based on safety, education, employment, and cost of living to identify the top 10 best cities to live in India by 2026.
What policyholders can do when critical illness claim for meningitis is rejected
A well-documented case supported by proper medical evidence can often help policyholders secure rightful claim benefits
Do SIP dates affect returns? 28-year Sensex study gives a clear answer
Across all 28 dates studied, average 10-year SIP returns ranged narrowly between 13.36% and 13.42%, indicating that the timing of a monthly SIP has no impact on long-term investment performance.
These 5 flexicap mutual funds delivered single-digit returns in 3 years. Check details
Skipping ITR filing in 2026 may lead to penalties, lost tax benefits and financial setbacks
Ignoring ITR filing in 2026 can trigger penalties, delayed refunds and lost tax benefits. Timely Income Tax Return filing helps protect your financial record, supports loan and visa applications, and ensures compliance with tax rules while preserving important tax advantages.
E20 is in your tank. Is your insurance policy keeping up?
Indias shift to E20 fuel hasnt changed motor insurance policies. For owners of older vehicles, the real risk lies in engine damage that may fall outside standard policy cover.
How income tax clubbing provisions on gifted money can work in your favour
A recent tax tribunal ruling highlights how income tax clubbing provisions can help taxpayers reduce their tax liability.
AMFI Rejig: Mazagon Dock among 9 largecaps stocks that may get midcap status in H2 CY26
Nuvama Institutional Equities expects AMFIs H2 CY26 semi-annual rejig to trigger changes in market-cap classifications, with around nine stocks potentially moving from large-cap to midcap status. Rising cut-off thresholds could affect names across real estate, hospitality, healthcare, industrials and consumer sectors.
Can the tax department deny TDS credit if your employer defaults? ITAT answers
A recent Mumbai ITAT ruling has brought relief to salaried taxpayers facing tax demands due to their employer's failure to deposit TDS. The tribunal held that an employee cannot be penalised for an employer's default once tax has already been deducted from salary.
Retirees often face a dilemma investing their corpus, balancing safety with growth. Expert Abhijit Chokshi advises a diversified approach for a Rs 1 crore investment, suggesting balanced advantage funds, quality debt funds for emergencies, and a cautious entry into equity via Systematic Transfer Plans (STPs). This strategy aims to manage risk and ensure peace of mind during market volatility, emphasizing a long-term perspective.
NFO Update: Tata AIA Life Insurance launches Multifactor Index Fund
Tata AIA Life Insurance has launched the Tata AIA Multifactor Index Fund, a ULIP-based offering designed to combine equity market participation with life insurance protection. Built on a low-volatility multifactor strategy, the fund aims to provide diversified exposure and steadier long-term wealth creation through a rules-based investment approach.
Edelweiss Mutual Fund has launched a unique technology fund, blending Indian IT stocks with global tech giants. This fund aims for long-term capital appreciation by taking a contrarian view on Indian IT while investing in innovative global companies. It offers investors a single avenue to tap into both domestic and international technology growth opportunities, differentiating itself from single-focus funds.
PFRDA launches Pension Sahayak portal: File NPS grievances via mobile number, OTP in 22 languages
Pension complaints are now easier to resolve with the Pension Sahayak portal. PFRDAs AI-powered platform offers multilingual support, voice-based grievance filing, transparent tracking and faster complaint resolution, creating a more efficient pension grievance system for NPS subscribers.
Form 15G vs Form 15H explained: Who can submit these forms to avoid TDS on interest income?
Form 15G and Form 15H are self-declaration forms that allow eligible taxpayers to receive interest income without TDS deduction. Form 15G is meant for resident individuals below 60 years of age, while Form 15H is for resident senior citizens aged 60 years and above.
NFO Alert: HDFC Mutual Fund announces launch of Nifty Auto Index Fund
HDFC Mutual Fund has launched the HDFC Nifty Auto Index Fund, an open-ended scheme offering passive exposure to Indias automobile and auto ancillary sector. The NFO is open for subscription and will close on July 3. The scheme will reopen for continuous sale and repurchase within five working days after allotment of units under the NFO.
Diamonds are forever. Their value isn't.
Diamonds may hold emotional value, but they rarely hold their worth in the secondary market.
8th Pay Commission: 5 major NC-JCM reforms could reshape central government jobs
A major push for change, the 8th Pay Commission is reviewing five key cadre management reforms proposed by NC-JCM. The recommendations focus on equal pay, faster promotions, vacancy filling, recruitment improvements and better career growth for central government employees.
Gold and silver prices dropped marginally in India's retail market on June 24. MCX gold futures decreased by 1.17% to 145,060 per 10 grams, while silver declined by 0.39% to 2,25,490 per kg amid mixed Asian tech stock performance.
Think you don't need to file an ITR? Check these 9 triggers first
ITR filing is not determined only by income levels or tax liability. Several financial transactions and asset holdings can independently trigger a mandatory return filing requirement.
NFO Insight: Can JM Multi Asset Allocation Fund help investors navigate uncertain market?
JM Financial Mutual Fund has launched the JM Multi Asset Allocation Fund, aiming to provide long-term capital appreciation and income by investing across equity, debt, and commodities. The fund employs a structured, model-guided approach to dynamically allocate assets, seeking to navigate market cycles and offer risk-adjusted growth. Experts suggest such funds can offer diversification and stability, potentially outperforming pure equity funds in uncertain times, and may suit first-time investors.
Best medium duration mutual funds to invest in June 2026
Investment advisors are increasingly recommending medium duration funds, anticipating superior returns as interest rates decline. These debt funds, mandated by SEBI to hold instruments with a Macaulay duration of three to four years, suit investors with similar horizons. While sensitive to rate hikes, they offer potential for those willing to accept some volatility for longer-term parking of funds.
Does NAV matter when choosing a mutual fund? Here's what experts say
NAV is one of the most visible figures in mutual fund investing, but often the most misunderstood. Experts explain why it should not drive investment decisions.
Beyond returns: How benchmarking helps investors pick winning mutual funds
Understanding mutual fund performance goes beyond just returns. A benchmark, like Nifty 50 or Sensex, acts as a crucial yardstick to gauge a fund's success. Investors should look for funds consistently outperforming their benchmark, even by a small margin, over extended periods and across market cycles. This comparison is vital for making informed investment decisions.
ITR filing 2026: Have foreign assets or income? Not reporting them may cost you 10 lakh
Indian taxpayers must disclose foreign income and assets in their income tax return each year to avoid penalties up to 10 lakhs. Deadline to report foreign assets, importance of such a disclosure among other details explained here.
Planning an International trip? You may not get entry to these countries without a travel insurance
Many international destinations now require travelers to have insurance coverage to enter, a trend heightened by the Covid pandemic. These policies help cover medical costs and emergencies, with uninsured tourists often denied entry.
SpaceX falls below IPO price: How much of your money should be in futuristic tech?
Wall Street's tech stocks fell sharply as concerns about AI-driven gains grew. Nasdaq and S&P 500 dropped, with losses in semiconductor stocks and SpaceX leading the charge.
Radhika Gupta explains IPO funds: What investors should know about this niche mutual fund category
IPO funds are equity mutual fund schemes that invest primarily in recently listed companies. Rather than applying for individual IPOs, investors get a portfolio of newly listed stocks. As Radhika Gupta notes, Rather than figuring out which IPO to invest in every month, let a fund do it for you!
SpaceX stock down by 16%: Will your mutual fund investments take a hit?
SpaceX is experiencing a fourth day of stock losses amid a tech sell-off, dropping about 3% to $150. This follows a record $75 billion IPO last week, with investors concerned about AI enthusiasm. SpaceX has lost over $600 billion in value since the decline began.
What are focused funds? Meaning, investment strategy, key factors, benefits and risks
Focused funds are equity mutual fund schemes that invest in a limited number of stocks, allowing fund managers to take concentrated bets. These funds can invest in a maximum of 30 stocks and must allocate at least 80% of their total assets to equity and equity-related instruments.
Selling assets like shares, mutual funds, gold, or property triggers capital gains tax. Section 54F of the Income Tax Act offers exemptions if long-term profits are reinvested into residential property. Details here.
Raising a child varies significantly in cost across Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi. I asked ChatGPT to compare expenses across cities.
Nifty IT Index falls 28% in a year: Should investors buy the dip or remain cautious?
Experts suggest that investors with a 3-5 year horizon may consider investing in Nifty IT Index Funds through the SIP approach, while those seeking short-term returns or lower volatility may prefer to stay on the sidelines until there is greater clarity on AI-led growth and technology spending.
5 largecap mutual funds deliver over 15% annualised returns in 3 years. Check the list
Passive largecap funds led three-year performance, with BHARAT 22 and Nifty Next 50 ETFs delivering 18.9%22.1% annualised returns, while several Sensex and Shariah index funds posted modest gains.
Should you stop your SIP because the market is not doing well? History suggests otherwise
Market downturns often tempt investors to pause their SIPs, but historical data suggests staying invested may be the better strategy. A WhiteOak Capital study found that SIPs with weak initial returns frequently delivered stronger long-term outcomes, reinforcing the importance of discipline, consistency and time in the market.
Is your credit score enough for loan approval? Heres what lenders check beyond CIBIL
A strong credit score opens doors to better loans, but lenders now assess more than numbers. This article explains key factors behind loan approval, including income stability, repayment behaviour, credit utilisation, and overall financial health.
Spent over 2 lakh on foreign travel? You may have to file ITR even with no taxable income
According to Mrinal Mehta, Joint Secretary at the Bombay Chartered Accountants' Society (BCAS), the Income Tax Department tracks spending patterns and high-value transactions, making return filing mandatory in several situations even when taxable income is low or nil.
What is DTAA? How Indian taxpayers can avoid paying tax twice on foreign income
A Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) is a bilateral tax treaty signed between India and another country. Its purpose is to define how different types of income earned across borders will be taxed and to provide relief where the same income may otherwise be taxed in both countries.
5 steps to trace deceased investor assets using Consolidated Account Statement
Hidden investments can become difficult to trace after an investors passing. A Consolidated Account Statement (CAS) helps legal heirs identify, track and claim mutual funds, securities and demat holdings linked to the deceased investors PAN.
New mutual fund houses are lining up. Should you trust them with your money?
New fund houses may offer innovative products and investment styles, but investors should scrutinize track records, investment philosophy, process and management before investing.
A mutual fund factsheet is published by an Asset Management Company (AMC) every month. It provides a snapshot of a scheme's performance, portfolio, and risk metrics. It helps investors understand how the fund is managed and how it has performed over time.
Consistent performers: 6 equity mutual funds deliver over 20% CAGR in 3- and 5-year horizons
Six equity mutual funds have delivered over 20% CAGR in both three- and five-year horizons, an ETMutualFunds analysis showed. The list includes mid cap and small cap schemes from HDFC, Nippon India, Quant, Bandhan and Invesco, highlighting consistent long-term performance across categories despite market volatility.
NFO Alert: JM Financial Mutual Fund launches multi asset allocation fund
JM Financial Mutual Fund has launched its new JM Multi Asset Allocation Fund, an open-ended scheme designed for long-term wealth creation. Subscriptions open June 24 and close July 8, 2026. This fund offers a diversified portfolio across equity, debt, gold/silver, and commodity derivatives, aiming for growth with a structured, actively managed approach to navigate various market cycles and economic conditions.
Choose right personal loan by comparing interest rates, tenure and repayment flexibility
Choose the right personal loan for your financial goals. Comparing interest rates, loan tenure, repayment flexibility and processing charges can help reduce costs, improve affordability and support better long-term financial planning.
OFSS among top 4 midcap stocks that saw highest mutual fund selling in May
Mutual funds heavily sold midcap stocks in May, including SAIL, Oracle Financial Services, National Aluminium, and Patanjali Foods, reflecting shifting allocations, valuation concerns, and sector rotation in Indian equity markets.
The Boss Scam turns trust into a cyber threat by impersonating authority figures. This article explains how fraudsters impersonate CEOs and regulators using urgent messages. It also highlights simple steps to prevent cyber fraud and financial losses.
Searching for the best smallcap funds? Check these top 4 picks for June 2026
ETMutualFunds has shortlisted four top smallcap mutual funds based on rolling returns, consistency, downside risk and asset size. Nippon India leads with the highest returns, while others show mixed quartile performance. These funds suit aggressive investors with a high risk appetite and a long-term investment horizon.
Updating your EPF nomination? Here's how to complete the process online
Updating nominee details in your EPF account is important after major life events such as marriage, divorce or the birth of a child. Here's a step-by-step guide to changing nominees online.
AMFI Rejig: BSE and Vodafone Idea among 8 midcap stocks that may get largecap status in H2 CY26
Eight midcap stocks, including BSE, Vodafone Idea, Hitachi Energy India, Jindal Steel, Indian Bank, Indus Towers, BHEL and Vedanta Aluminium, may be upgraded to largecap status in AMFIs H2 CY26 rejig, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities.
Sebis investor tools multiply, but awareness lags behind
From verified trading apps to AI-led fraud detection, Indias regulator is rolling out new tools to protect retail investorsbut awareness remains the missing link.
Best gilt mutual funds to invest in June 2026
Gilt funds are being recommended by advisors for 'aggressive' debt investors anticipating interest rate cuts by the RBI, with potential for double-digit returns. These funds, investing in government securities, carry no credit risk but are highly sensitive to interest rate fluctuations. Investors should have a long-term horizon and understand rate cycles to benefit from potential gains when rates fall.
The Nifty India Internet Index tracks the performance of companies that primarily operate through digital and online platforms. The index currently includes 27 stocks, offering exposure to a diverse range of internet-driven businesses.
Top International funds returned up to 203% in a year. Can you still invest?
International mutual funds delivered some of the strongest returns in the industry over the past year, led by Taiwan and Asian market exposure. Yet many of the category's top-performing schemes remain closed or restricted for fresh investments.
Gold, silver prices today: Retail gold rates were stable on Tuesday as the market reacted to progress in US-Iran peace talks. Check retail rates of 24K, 22K, 18K gold and 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and other cities.
8th Pay Commission: AIDEF seeks review of DA and DR inflation formula to better reflect living costs
Rising inflation concerns spark fresh demands for reform as Defence employees urge the 8th Pay Commission to overhaul the DA and DR calculation formula. AIDEF says the current inflation index fails to reflect the true cost of living for employees and pensioners.
8th Pay Commission may revamp HRA structure as employee unions seek higher rates and DA linkage
Rising living and housing costs have intensified calls for major reforms to the 8th Pay Commission HRA. Employee unions have proposed higher HRA rates, DA-linked revisions and regular city reviews to ensure central government employees and pensioners receive better support against inflation.
Corporate health insurance is common in compensation packages, but employees often wonder if premiums from employer-provided plans are deductible under Section 80D. Here's the answer to your question.
Buying US stocks via GIFT City? Heres how capital gains and dividend tax work
GIFT City has emerged as a new route for Indians seeking exposure to US stocks. But the tax treatment can vary based on the transaction, investor status and the applicability of Section 47(viiab).
West Bengal govt announces 20% DA hike: When will it implemented? Here's what you need to know
The West Bengal BJP government presented its first budget, announcing a 20% increase in dearness allowance and relief for state employees and pensioners. This enhanced DA will be effective from October 1, 2026. Details here.
Accidentally sent extra money through UPI? Here's what you should do next
Accidental UPI payments, such as entering an extra zero, can lead to unintended transfers. To recover funds, contact the recipient for a refund and file a complaint with your bank. Details here.
MFs are effective for long-term wealth creation, offering potential gains, inflation protection. However, a strategy of holding indefinitely is not ideal. Regular portfolio reviews ensure alignment with financial goals, guiding investors on rebalancing or exiting underperforming funds.
Why investors should tread credit risk funds with caution
Credit risk funds offer higher yields, but they come with credit and liquidity risks. Experts say the category suits only investors who understand what they are taking on, and not just chasing yield.
EPFO: We explain how you can check your employees' provident fund account balance, EPF account balance or track status of your application through Umang app, SMS / messages, WhatsApp, or missed call.
ESOPs enable startups to offer equity as part of compensation. Tax liabilities occur when options are exercised and shares sold, with potential deferment of TDS for eligible startups. Details here.
Top 5 equity mutual funds delivered up to 24% annualised SIP returns over last decade
Five equity mutual funds delivered up to 24% annualised SIP returns over the last decade, with small-cap and mid-cap schemes leading the performance chart.
I asked ChatGPT whether a middle-class Indian couple should spend 1.4 lakh on a trip to Sri Lanka or Singapore. After comparing flights, hotels, food, transport and attractions, the AI delivered a surprisingly one-sided verdictand it wasn't in favour of the more expensive destination.
Should SIP investors panic during a market crash? The maths tells a different story
The periods that feel worst for investors often create the biggest opportunity for SIP wealth creation. Here's how market corrections can boost long-term returns through rupee-cost averaging.
Why ITR filing deadline extension for AY 2026-27 looks unlikely and what taxpayers should do
The ITR filing deadline extension for AY 2026-27 appears unlikely, as filing systems remain stable and compliance is progressing smoothly. This article highlights 5 key reasons and essential steps taxpayers should follow before submitting their income tax returns.
EPF interest rate stays at 8.25%: Should you increase your contribution?
With EPFO holding rates at 8.25%, salaried investors face a sharper question: whether higher guaranteed returns in EPF still outweigh tax rules, liquidity constraints and the rise of market-linked alternatives like NPS.
Top 7 mutual fund managers manage at least Rs 2 lakh crore AUM. Check details
The top seven mutual fund managers each oversee at least Rs 2 lakh crore in assets under management as of May 2026, according to ACE MF data. The list is led by managers from ICICI Prudential, SBI Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund, highlighting concentration among Indias largest fund houses.
Income-tax returns: Want to clear your taxes online? Here are the tax payment modes under ePay Tax, explained. We explain the unified ePay Tax service, eligibility, rules and stepwise guide for pre-login and post-login process.
Investment markets are in a flux, but basics have not changed
Global investment trends show a bearish phase for equities and a shift in focus from semiconductor stocks. Foreign portfolio investors are selling in India despite strong fundamentals. This situation highlights the need for cautious investment amidst rising interest rates and geopolitical tensions.
IPO investing is gaining traction, but picking winning stocks is tough for individuals. Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO Radhika Gupta suggests their Recently Listed IPO Fund as a solution. This professionally managed portfolio focuses on new listings, offering diversification and potential post-listing gains. While acknowledging potential volatility due to mid-to-micro cap exposure, Gupta recommends SIPs for smoother navigation of market ups and downs.
Teaching children about money management involves providing rewards for responsible behaviour and allocating funds wisely. A structured allowance helps kids learn to plan and make decisions without conflating grades with payment.
DA hike: West Bengal announces 20% increase in dearness allowance for state govt employees, pensioners Check details
NFO Alert: Tata Mutual Fund announces launch of Tata Multi-sector Passive FoF
Tata Mutual Fund has launched the Tata Multi-sector Passive FoF, an open-ended scheme investing in passive equity funds across various sectors. Aiming for long-term capital appreciation, it uses a rules-based approach with fund manager discretion to dynamically allocate to leading sectors, mitigating emotional bias and timing challenges for investors. The NFO is open until July 6, with a minimum investment of Rs 5,000.
Income under 12 lakh? Check these income types before assuming your tax is zero
The 12 lakh rebate under the new tax regime applies to income taxed under slab rates. Taxpayers with equity LTCG, crypto gains or lottery winnings may still have tax liability despite earning below the threshold.
8th pay commission: The 8th CPC panel is holding meetings in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh today and tomorrow (22 and 23 June). Check here for full schedule of state visits and latest updates on the commission's progress.
Vedanta Aluminium set for largecap upgrade in H2 CY26; power, oil & gas arms may turn smallcaps
Vedanta Aluminium is likely to be upgraded to the large-cap category in AMFIs H2 CY26 semi-annual reshuffle, while Vedanta Power, Oil & Gas, and Iron & Steel may be classified as smallcaps after the demerger, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities. AMFI may also revise market-cap cut-offs, raising the large-cap threshold and adjusting mid-cap limits based on prevailing valuations.
ATM fraud explained: Types, risks and 5 smart ways to protect your money
Protect your savings from ATM fraud with simple safety measures. Here we explain common ATM scams, their impact on card users, and five effective ways to prevent financial losses while keeping your banking information secure.
Physicswallah among top 5 smallcap stocks that saw highest mutual fund selling in May
Five smallcap stocks, including MRPL, Kaynes Technology, Wockhardt, GE Shipping and Physicswallah, saw the highest mutual fund net selling in May, according to Motilal Oswal Financial Services data, reflecting notable institutional exit trends.
Gold and silver prices rose in India on 22 June, with 24-karat gold at 148,120 per 10 grams. Geopolitical developments include US-Iran talks progressing towards a final deal within 60 days, easing global energy supply threats amid ongoing negotiations.
What is home loan overdraft facility? How it works, benefits and drawbacks | Explained
A home loan overdraft (OD) facility combines the benefits of a home loan and an overdraft account. It allows borrowers to deposit surplus funds into their loan account over and above the regular EMI payments. Borrowers can also withdraw the surplus amount whenever required.
Smallcap funds have emerged as the best-performing equity mutual fund category over the last three months, delivering an average return of 16.94%, according to ETMutualFunds. The rally follows an earlier correction and has been supported by improving earnings, strong liquidity, and renewed investor interest. However, the sharp gains have also sparked debate on whether investors should buy, hold, or book profits at current levels.
Best corporate bond mutual funds to invest in June 2026
Investors seeking relatively safe debt options for near-term or three-year-plus goals can consider corporate bond funds in June 2026. These funds invest primarily in top-rated corporate papers, offering greater safety than credit risk or gilt funds. While interest rate sensitivity and past defaults warrant caution, these recommended funds provide a stable avenue for investment. The article highlights key funds and the methodology behind their selection.
