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Markets bet on RBI rate hike as inflation pressure builds
As inflation concerns rise, investors are putting their faith in the Reserve Bank of India to implement an interest rate hike. A survey reveals that nearly 60% of economists believe a 25-basis-point increase is likely at the coming policy meeting. With an eye on foreign investment, expectations are growing for a tightening cycle to kick off in October, setting the stage for how future capital flows will be managed.
PPF maturity date falls on a holiday or you don't withdraw immediately: what happens to your money?
A Public Provident Fund (PPF) account matures in 15 years, calculated from the financial year of opening. Here's what happens if you don't make a withdrawal immediately.
A job break can affect the tax treatment of EPF interest. While the accumulated EPF balance may remain tax-free after five years of service, some ITAT rulings say interest earned after leaving employment can be taxable as income from other sources.
What rising US Treasury bond yields mean for markets
Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week, Sanket Dhanorkar explains why yields on US Treasury bonds matter, and what it means for Indian investors. Rising US bond yields mean investors are demanding a higher return to buy and hold that debt. This reflects concerns over the weak fiscal position of the US and the inflationary impact from steep oil prices.
Fewer Indians think Rs 1 cr is enough for retirement
Working Indians across generations are increasingly proactive towards retirement planning, even as most believe they are not adequatelyeither financially, physically or emotionally prepared for their twilight years, the latest edition of an annual study by Axis Max Life Insurance shows. 1 in 2 respondents think they should start plan ning for retirement from their 1st pay cheque.
Festive sales and shopping traps: Be a smart shopper
Bala had saved 2,000 for headphones. He spotted a pair at 40% off, but the prompt, Only 2 left! and Add 500 more for FREE shipping! nudged him into adding a phone cover and a notebook. He ended up spending more than he had planned. During festive sales, around Dussehra and Diwali, such offers can push us to buy faster, spend more or buy things we dont really need.
Switching jobs? Dont treat the offer letter as a job
Cover the risks between your old payslip and the new one, says Devashish Chakravarty. Read the print on your offer before you re sign. Routine conditions are fine, such as background verification, document checks and reference calls. Speed them up. Watch out for clauses that can delay or withdraw the offer, like a joining date to be confirmed, or a role tied to a client contract, or a probation that is extendable.
Can these EMS stocks gain as sector sees good growth
Investor enthusiasm around the sector is visible in the performance of nine EMS stocks covered by multiple brokerages. The group has delivered an equal weighted average return of 55.3% so far in 2026, compared with 1.1% for the Nifty 500 Equal Weighted Index. Seven of the nine stocks have delivered posi tive returns, while three have gained over 100%. The analysis is based on closing prices as of 28 September 2026.
AI can pick funds, but it can't stop panic selling
The software can analyse thousands of funds and figure out that the three or four you are researching have almost identical portfolios. However, the investors real challenge lies in the middle stage. Choosing a good fund is the easy part because there are actually a lot of good funds and distinguishing the good from the bad is not black magic, nor is it guesswork.
Wealth adviser WhatsApp hack: Know the danger signs
Recent incidents highlight the increasing threat of compromised WhatsApp accounts among financial advisers in India. These attacks exploit trust, as fraudsters impersonate advisers through hacked accounts. Financial firms have implemented strict new security measures to mitigate future attacks and protect client information. Advisers urge their clients to adopt safer communication practices when handling sensitive financial information. Staying vigilant and verifying communications can prevent potential scams and financial losses.
EPF wage ceiling hike: Impact on EPF, EPS, salary
While the higher ceiling does have an impact on immediate net cash take-home of the employee due to increased contribution, it will certainly support building of future corpus for retirement and higher pension by way of contribution to the provident fund and pension scheme.
EPF wage ceiling hike: EPS legacy issues remain
The recent adjustment to the Employees' Provident Fund wage ceiling significantly widens eligibility for benefits, raising the contribution limit from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 25,000. This revision aims to enhance social security, but it might pose complexities for pension contributions. Employees should verify the accuracy of their EPS records to prevent issues, as the swift rollout of the new ceiling could lead to unforeseen challenges.
Insurance mis-selling: Why IRDAI's role is the key
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India has announced new proposals to limit commission rates for insurance distributors. This move seeks to tackle high distribution costs, ultimately enhancing the policyholder experience. By implementing reforms aimed at fostering customer-centric practices, the initiative aims to curtail the mis-selling of insurance products. Insurers must align their compensation methods with the value delivered to customers.
Travel planning: Don't overlook these hidden costs
Many travelers fail to account for hidden costs while planning international journeys, often only considering major expenses. These overlooked charges can hike trip costs by 25-40%, creating budget overruns. It's vital to include local transport, dining, and extra fees in your budget to avoid unexpected financial surprises. Employing effective budgeting techniques ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience abroad.
Festive travel squeeze: Domestic airfares jump up to 68% as flight options narrow
Domestic airfares on key routes have surged ahead of the festive and year-end travel season, with Delhi-Hyderabad fares up 68% year-on-year and Mumbai-Kolkata 51%. Airlines have cut domestic flight frequencies by 5% while keeping seat capacity broadly stable, but higher ATF prices and constrained departures are adding pressure on fares.
DIAL raises 3,500 crore to refinance $522.6 m dollar bonds
Delhi International Airport Ltd has successfully raised 3,500 crore through 15-year rupee-denominated non-convertible debentures. This financing aims to refinance its upcoming $522.6 million dollar notes maturing in October 2026. Major investors included India Infrastructure Finance Company and various banks that subscribed substantial amounts.
Bajaj Finserv to rope in ex-GIC re chief for reinsurance venture
Bajaj Finserv is preparing to enter the reinsurance sector with the appointment of N Ramaswamy Narayanan. The former chairman of GIC Re brings over thirty years of reinsurance experience to the role. This strategic move aims to strengthen the Bajaj Group's existing insurance operations through a new subsidiary focused on reinsurance.
Nifty Total Market Index funds offer exposure to large-, mid-, small-, and micro-cap stocks through a single mutual fund scheme. Heres a look at the category, its benchmark performance, and how the index funds have performed so far.
Audit rotation boom puts Big Four under sharper scrutiny
Indias audit rotation cycle is prompting companies to scrutinise prospective auditors far beyond credentials, examining team stability, sector expertise, regulatory records, technology capabilities and conflicts involving non-audit services. With over 1,000 mandates expiring in FY27, audit committees are demanding greater detail on partner continuity, independence and the value firms can deliver.
AI cloning opens new monetisation route for celebrities, creators
Artificial intelligence is creating a new revenue stream for celebrities and digital creators by allowing them to license AI-generated versions of their faces and voices. The opportunity spans advertising, branded content and digital media, but also raises questions around consent, unauthorised replication and ownership of digital identities.
Consumer brands are betting big on small-town India
A dormant or inoperative account is not a lost account. Whether the account has been unused for two years or the deposit has remained unclaimed for a decade, RBI's framework provides a route for the rightful account holder or beneficiary to recover the money.
Facing an NPS-related issue? Know how to raise a complaint through the PFRDA Pension Sahayak portal
Have an NPS or APY-related query or complaint? PFRDAs Pension Sahayak offers a simpler way for subscribers to raise and track grievances online. Heres how the platform works, the steps to register a complaint, and what happens if the issue remains unresolved.
National Housing Bank set to conduct forensic audit of SRG Housing Finance
Amid growing concerns over dubious lending practices, the National Housing Bank has initiated a forensic audit of SRG Housing Finance. This scrutiny will investigate allegations of fictitious loans, including unsupported accounts and discrepancies in repayment records. Auditors will delve into consumer data and loan origination processes to uncover any fraudulent activity, building on earlier findings that flagged possible fictitious loans ranging from 300 to 400 crore.
A survey of over 67,000 UPI users suggests 76% may shift to cards, cash or bank transfers for purchases above 2,000 if merchants pass on the proposed 0.4% MDR. Only 14% said they would continue using UPI and bear the additional cost.
5 tricks to improve your CIBIL score to get loans faster with better interest rates
CIBIL scores reflect repayment history and influence the chances of loan approval. Here are 5 tips to improve your CIBIL score.
Know when TDS applies to payments made to contractors for construction, repair, or renovation work. The rules specify who must deduct TDS, the applicable 1% or 2% rates, the 30,000 single-payment and 1 lakh annual thresholds, and separate rules for individuals and HUFs.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana calculator: Your daughter may have 72 lakh for her education; heres how
Starting a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana account at birth aligns with the child's educational needs by the age of 21. Check how.
Half a dozen small hybrids getting ready for Indian launch
Automakers including Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota and Renault are preparing around half a dozen small hybrid vehicles for India over the next 18-24 months, drawn by lower 18% GST on compact cars and tighter CAFE 3 norms. The sub-four-metre segments strong growth is also encouraging manufacturers to pursue affordable hybrids.
Indian Diaspora Groups Raise Consular, Banking Issues With EAM S Jaishankar
The global Indian diaspora has called for improvements in consular services, financial access, cultural programs and other areas in a memorandum submitted to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during his recent visit to New York.
Value mutual funds follow a strategy of investing in stocks that appear undervalued. But which schemes have delivered consistently strong returns across 1-, 3-, and 5-year periods, and how does their performance compare on another key metric? Heres what the latest data shows.
Civil Aviation Ministry, airlines to discuss Mumbai airport issues on October 6
The Civil Aviation Ministry is set to hold discussions with airlines concerning the impending shift of international flights, which may take effect on October 25. There are plans to relocate these operations to Navi Mumbai airport or reduce them by a third. Airlines have expressed worries about how these alterations could affect their services and the convenience of their passengers.
Sneakers are expected to grow 8.8% annually, reaching $98.7 billion by 2034. Asia-Pacific leads sales, driven by demand in China. Young consumers value brand stories, with low-top sneakers being the most popular style.
Missing your ITR deadline does not mean you lose every tax benefit. But if you have reported a loss, filing a belated ITR can change what you can carry forward. Heres what taxpayers with capital and house-property losses need to know.
FD rates for senior citizens in October 2026: Interest reaches 8.50% in these banks
In October 2026, senior citizens can secure fixed deposit rates up to 8.50%. Check detailed numbers.
FSSAI orders Everest to recall cumin powder after sample found unsafe
FSSAI has ordered Everest Food Products to immediately recall a batch of pre-packed cumin powder after testing found pesticide residues above prescribed limits. A referral laboratory confirmed the sample was unsafe. The regulator also suspended Creative Bakers and Confectioners licence over severe hygiene deficiencies and directed corrective action.
Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and Alia Bhatt are expanding their wealth through investments in startups, properties and sports teams.
Paramount Syntex subscribed 1.3 times on day 2 of bidding; QIB book hits 119 times
Paramount Syntex's Rs 82-crore IPO was subscribed 1.35 times on the second day of bidding on the BSE SME platform. The issue received bids for 82.39 lakh shares against 61.17 lakh shares on offer. The QIB portion was subscribed 119.29 times, while the retail and NII portions saw 10% and 2% subscription, respectively. The IPO closes on October 6.
DLF Sells Out Entire 1,985 Cr Senior Living Project
From October 15, a new MDR framework will apply to UPI merchant payments above 2,000. But not all merchants or transactions will be affected. Heres what the new rules mean for customers, small vendors and select sectors.
Australia began researching railway sleepers made from recycled plastic in 2015, in an effort to tackle plastic waste while developing an alternative to conventional timber sleepers. The Duratrack project was developed by Victorian manufacturer Integrated Recycling with researchers at Monash University's Institute of Railway Technology.
Want the latest iPhone without buying it? Indias smartphone subscription bet grows
Subscription-led models for premium smartphones are beginning to gain traction in India as buyers look to lower upfront costs and upgrade devices more frequently. While EMI and trade-in programmes still dominate, services offering monthly access to iPhones, Pixels and Galaxy devices are growing, particularly among consumers in the 1 lakh-plus segment.
India and China are relatively better placed to withstand energy supply disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz due to diversified sourcing and stockpiles, while New Delhi is likely to continue buying some Russian oil despite potential US tariff pressure, said former Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo, urging India to
A taxpayer who sold his ancestral land for 8 crore, faced tax issues when his claimed exemptions under Sections 54B and 54F were disallowed. Here's why he ultimately won the case.
The Northeast Frontier Railway has recreated the 146-year-old Sukna railway station in West Bengal to preserve and promote the heritage of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train. The station now features a photo gallery with QR codes offering historical details. With passenger footfall reaching record levels, NFR will also run additional Toy Train services during Durga Puja to meet the festive rush, an official told ANI.
NCLAT allows oppression, mismanagement plea against office-bearers of film producers' body IMPPA
NCLAT upheld the NCLT's decision to allow a minority group of IMPPA to pursue legal action. The minority members alleged financial mismanagement and irregularities within the organisation. The petition received support from 209 members, which met the required threshold under the Companies Act. IMPPA's arguments questioning the petitions validity were rejected by the NCLAT. This ruling enables an investigation into the alleged mismanagement within IMPPA.
Travel medical insurance policies have certain sub-limits that may vary by insurer. This leads to a lower payout than the cover claimed during purchase. Here's how it works and what determines them.
Nifty 50 correction: why fund managers see more value in large caps now
Two years of flat market returns and sharp oil-led corrections have dragged Nifty 50 valuations below historical averages. Fund managers explain why beaten-down blue chips offer a margin of safety and where to invest now.
2Ws, CVs or passenger cars? Emkay picks its winners
Iran says Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until conditions are met, Nournews reports
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Deep-sea gas becomes costlier as government raises price ceiling
The government has raised the ceiling price for gas from difficult fields such as Reliance-BPs KG-D6 block to $9.89 per MMBtu for October 2026-March 2027, from $8.90 earlier. Meanwhile, APM gas from ONGC and Oil Indias legacy fields remains effectively capped at $7 per MMBtu, with new-well gas eligible for a 10% premium up to $7.70.
Automakers boost supplies for festive season
Canon in talks with those engaged in key chip projects in India, plans local service centres
Canon India President and CEO Toshiaki Nomura said the Japanese technology company has held discussions with key semiconductor manufacturers in India and plans to bring its lithography technology and service centres to the country. Canon sees a major opportunity in Indias growing chipmaking ecosystem and aims to support manufacturers as domestic semiconductor projects progress.
Payday loans are short-term, unsecured advances used for emergencies. Check risks, eligibility and documents required before you consider one.
Steel Ministry asks SAIL, NMDC to scout overseas mineral assets for raw material security
The Steel Ministry has instructed state-run steelmakers SAIL and NMDC to explore overseas mineral assets. This effort aims to secure long-term raw material supplies necessary for steel production. Indian steelmakers currently rely heavily on imports for coking coal and limestone, which increases their costs. Diversifying mineral portfolios could also benefit NMDC as it seeks to enhance its revenue streams.
Equity MFs delivered up to 5% return last week; international funds lead. Check top 5 performers
Equity mutual funds delivered up to 5% returns last week, with international schemes dominating the gainers. Only 49 of 626 funds posted positive returns, while losses reached 3.8%.
NHAI has approved two infrastructure projects to ease traffic congestion around Shankar Chowk and Cyber City in Gurgaon. The plan includes a 600-metre, three-lane underpass and a 1.3-km, six-lane flyover. DLF will build both projects at an estimated cost of Rs 300 crore, with the structures expected to improve traffic flow between DLF Phase 3, NH-8, Cyber City and nearby areas.
3 passive mutual fund NFOs to open on Monday. Check key details
Three passive mutual fund NFOs from JioBlackRock, Kotak and HDFC will open for subscription on October 5 and close on October 19. Here are their investment categories, minimum application amounts and other key details.
Planning a lumpsum investment in smallcap mutual funds? Check top 3 leaders and laggards
Smallcap mutual funds delivered mixed returns over the past two years. Motilal Oswal Small Cap Fund emerged as the top performer, while Tata Small Cap Fund was the biggest laggard.
A mother travelling from Bihar to Bengaluru with her 2-year-old son praised Indian Railways pantry staff for preparing oats for her toddler during the long train journey. She shared how the staff quickly cooked the meal within five minutes and willingly helped her. Her Instagram post drew attention online, with users sharing similar experiences of railway staff assisting parents travelling with young children.
Meet ube, the purple yam hoping to become Indias next matcha
Ube, a purple yam from the Philippines, is gaining popularity in Indian cafes among younger consumers. Its vibrant color and unique flavor are attracting attention across various demographics. Chains like Starbucks have introduced ube products, expanding the flavor options available. However, challenges in sourcing fresh ube may affect consistency for cafes. Despite this, ube's versatility suggests it is here to stay in the market.
Your car knows where you go. Insurers, lenders and automakers want to know too
Connected cars continuously generate data regarding various attributes like location, driving patterns, and vehicle diagnostics. This data collection offers manufacturers and service providers insights to enhance their offerings. Diverse stakeholders can leverage this information, including insurers and fleet managers, to better assess risks and operational efficiencies. However, concerns about data privacy and user consent complicate the monetization landscape.
What life insurers actually pay for
Insurance is sold as protection against death, but the industry's own numbers tell a different story
Tamil Nadu, a $400 billion-plus economy with more than 10% annual growth, lacks an airport that matches its economic scale. Chennais Meenambakkam airport handled 23 million passengers in FY26, well below Bengaluru and Hyderabad, while the states other airports also lack the capacity to meet growing demand.
AC companies move south, betting on PLI
Purchasing items with no-cost EMI can seem appealing, but it may hide costs such as processing fees and interest charges. A comparison of total costs is crucial.
The EPF allows full or partial withdrawals under certain conditions. Members can claim for emergencies, education, housing, and more. In case your claim is being rejected, check what key information or mistakes you may have to rectify
Adani to begin Mumbai Airport Terminal 1 demolition in January; 5 million passengers to be affected
Adani Group is set to start the redevelopment of Mumbai airport's Terminal 1 in January, affecting significant passenger traffic. The north section of Terminal 1B will be temporarily closed to address safety concerns and increase capacity. Operations can be shifted to Navi Mumbai International Airport, which offers discounts for new international flights. Redevelopment aims to raise capacity from 15 million to 20 million passengers annually.
Nestle India's low-fat dairy whitener fails food safety test
FSSAI recently deemed Nestle India's low-fat dairy whitener unsafe, stating it didn't adhere to the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, based on lab findings. Nestle, however, maintains that its product fully complies with safety regulations, asserting the phosphorus content is naturally derived from milk and is within the permissible limits outlined by the law.
Russian crude to remain part of energy mix: Jaishankar to Panel
As traditional oil suppliers face challenges, India's significant reliance on Russia for crude oil came into focus. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the critical nature of sustaining robust relations with Moscow, amid growing external pressures. During their discussions, delegates examined strategies for diplomatic conflict resolution regarding Ukraine while also addressing concerns over impending US tariffs on Russian imports, demonstrating India's commitment to both energy security and international diplomacy.
HDFC Pension Fund Managements NPS Preference Index Study 2026 revealed that preference for the National Pension Scheme among Indians has increased, driven by improved consideration, familiarity, and appeal.
CEA Nageswaran urged Indians to prioritise long-term savings over short-term trading, highlighting the importance of pension assets for financial security. He noted pension assets are only 17% of GDP, significantly lower than OECD peers, indicating room for growth.
EPS: What to do if employer fails to make pension contribution
EPFO says eligible employees can approach employer first, then file grievance online
Adani Airports to revamp Mumbai T1 North section from Jan; 9% traffic to shift
Adani Airports will commence a phased redevelopment of Mumbai airport's Terminal 1 starting in January 2027. The initial phase will impact around 5 million passengers each year due to safety concerns. Airlines can temporarily shift operations to the newly opened Navi Mumbai International Airport to minimize disruptions. The redevelopment aims to increase Terminal 1's capacity by 33% once completed.
The corporate insurance trap: Relying solely on your companys health cover is a bad idea; heres why
Relying solely on corporate health insurance can expose families to risks, especially during job transitions or retirement. Check why.
The Centre will soon implement Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) fees on specific UPI transactions. Today we answer what the UPI MDR charge means, the start date, slabs, and why this is being introduced now
Dorothy wants to tell a bold trans cultural tale, but a lack of nuance keeps getting in the way
The conservative backlash against progressive films can stifle constructive artistic discourse. Tamil movie Dorothy specifically draws attention to its depiction of transgender identities and the narrative direction taken. Although it has its flaws, the film delivers impactful performances and evocative music that resonate with audiences. Dorothy serves as a catalyst for vital discussions around representation and inclusivity in Indian cinema, pushing boundaries and underscoring the positive changes that have emerged.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has completed a 480-metre-long, 36-metre-high bridge over the Sabarmati River, the National High Speed Rail Corporation said Saturday. The bridge, supported by eight piers and featuring spans of up to 76 metres, uses the balanced cantilever method to cross the river without conventional scaffolding.
8th pay commission: Stakeholder meetings underway Here are the key dates and FAQs answered
The 8th Central Pay Commission is consulting stakeholders to discuss possible revisions. Chaired by former SC Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, it will benefit over 1 crore government employees and pensioners, with final recommendations expected by May 2027.
GAILs Sanjay Kumar named next Petronet LNG CEO
Sanjay Kumar has been appointed as the next Managing Director and CEO of Petronet LNG Ltd. His term will commence on May 13, 2027, after A K Singh's tenure ends. Petronet LNG plays a critical role in India's liquefied natural gas imports and energy infrastructure. The company aims to enhance its regasification capacity and expand operations significantly.
DA hike news: Sikkim has announced increased dearness allowance and dearness relief for state government employees and pensioners, respectively, with effect from 1 January 2026. Here's how much those under pre-revised and revised basic pay structures will get
Working remotely from hill stations in India may be cheaper than renting in cities. Various listings show monthly rates in Himachal, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and West Bengal.
Average home prices in Delhi-NCR rise maximum at 12 pc annually in Jul-Sep: Anarock
Housing prices in the Delhi-NCR region experienced an annual increase of 12 percent during the July-September quarter. This rise is attributed to increased input costs and a focus on luxury projects by builders. Average residential prices increased to Rs 9,980 per sq ft from Rs 8,900 per sq ft last year. Demand for housing remains steady, supported by evolving infrastructure and employment opportunities.
Robotic surgery gains rapid ground in India, Delhi NCR leads: Experts
India is rapidly scaling up robotic surgery, with procedures rising from 8,912 in 2021 to 44,857 in 2025, while Delhi NCR has emerged as the countrys biggest hub with 39 hospitals using robotic systems. Experts say the next phase could include wider use of telesurgery, remote mentoring and access to specialist care beyond major cities, subject to regulatory and cybersecurity safeguards.
Nestle India's 'low-fat dairy whitener' found ' unsafe, substandard' at Hotel Lalit: FSSAI
The FSSAI has flagged a low-fat dairy whitener from Nestle India as unsafe and substandard, following a sampling conducted at Hotel Lalit in Connaught Place, New Delhi. The report revealed breaches of the Food Safety and Standards Act. As a result, Bharat Hotels Ltd was issued a notice to halt sales of the offending product. They were also granted a chance to appeal the findings within a stipulated period.
India's digital financial ecosystem has seen rapid payment growth, but investment in mutual funds and equities remains low. An EY report reveals a gap in participation despite over 550 million UPI users. Details here.
Front-of-pack warnings can help consumers make healthier food choices: Experts
FSSAIs proposed front-of-pack warning labels for packaged foods high in added sugar, fat or salt could make nutritional risks easier for consumers to spot and compare, health experts said. They also stressed that labels alone will not be enough and should be backed by nutrition education, clearer communication and wider access to affordable healthy foods.
