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7 common mutual fund mistakes beginners must avoid in volatile markets
Mutual fund mistakes can erode returns during volatile markets as investors react to fear, stop SIPs, chase performance, and ignore asset allocation, while disciplined investing builds long-term wealth in any country.
As retirees reach 60, fixed deposits (FDs) offer a secure investment option for managing expenses like medical and living costs. Here is a comparison on what's on offer from various private and public lenders
Mastering your 50,000 monthly income: A practical ChatGPT-inspired expense plan
A practical guide to managing a 50,000 monthly income using structured budgeting, highlighting savings, investments, and the importance of personalised financial planning for long-term stability in any country.
The government-backed Sukanya Samridhhi Yojana can help secure major life expenses, such as education, healthcare, hobbies and other aspirations for your daughter. Here's if and how you can conduct partial or full withdrawals before complete tenure.
I consulted ChatGPT and Gemini on which car I should buy on a yearly salary of 7-9 lakh. The answers by AI chatbots changed my perspective on the buying decision.
AMFI Rejig: Mazagon Dock among 8 largecaps stocks that may get midcap status
Nuvama Institutional Equities expects a reshuffle in AMFIs H2 CY26 categorisation, with several stocks at risk of moving between segments. Changes in market capitalisation thresholds could push select largecap names into midcap and midcaps into smallcap, reflecting shifting valuations and evolving market dynamics across Indias equity landscape.
Niva Bupa ReAssure 3.0 vs HDFC ERGO Optima Secure+: Which health plan is worth your money in 2026?
Niva Bupa ReAssure 3.0 vs HDFC ERGO Optima Secure+ comparison highlights, features, coverage, riders, premiums and benefits to help choose a suitable premium health insurance plan. Make sure you seek professional guidance before locking in on any plan.
Market volatility is back. What should investors do now?
Oil above $100, a weak rupee and job worries are rattling sentiment, but history suggests disciplined investors who stay focused on long-term goals tend to come out ahead.
Planning a Rs 1 crore corpus in 10 years? Heres how to optimise your mutual fund portfolio
Building long-term wealth through mutual funds requires a prudent mix of asset allocation, disciplined investing, and regular portfolio reviews.
How gold turned $609 billion of imports into a $1.9 trillion stockpile?
Between 2011 and 2025, India imported $609 billion worth of gold. At todays prices, that holding is worth $1.9 trillionmaking gold one of the greatest household wealth creators in modern India.
5 mutual funds add 8 midcap stocks to their portfolios in March. Here are the details
Five mutual funds added eight midcap stocks to their portfolios in March, signaling selective accumulation as valuations turned attractive after the recent correction.
How new labour codes are quietly cutting tax bills under the new tax regime prominent CAs explain
New labour codes are changing tax planning by promoting structured salaries and employer-led benefits, helping boost tax savings under the new tax regime. Understanding these changes and consulting a tax expert is essential to make the most of these changes.
Dont have PAN or taxable income? You must file Form 157 before travelling abroad
Under the old IT regime, PAN was mandatory for filing Form 156 that was required to be filed by outbound travellers. While Form 156 could be filed on the e-filing portal of the IT department in the old regime, Form 157 can be done only manually under the IT Act, 2025.
Nippon India Mutual Fund dominates Akshaya Tritiya ETF volumes with 63% market share
Nippon India Mutual Fund demonstrated strong performance in Gold and Silver ETFs during Akshaya Tritiya 2026. The fund house secured a significant market share in combined volumes and investor base. This leadership highlights its consistent performance and superior liquidity, making it a preferred choice for Gold and Silver ETF investments in India.
How to reapply for personal loan if rejected and whats the process?
If you face a rejection, it is important to understand the underlying causes and how to recover.
Claiming grandparents fixed deposits after death: What to do without a will
Grandchildren might be uncertain of their legal standing or mistakenly believe that only the most immediate surviving heirs are entitled to the funds
We explore top 20 investment tips from the 17 best investors of all time, including Warren Buffett, Benjamin Graham and Peter Lynch. Here are some timeless investment lessons you should not ignore:
An employee was fined 10 lakh for not disclosing ESOP shares in his income tax return. The ITAT Chennai canceled the penalty, citing that the omission was accidental and there was no intent to conceal income, as the shares were already taxed.
Sriram Finance revises fixed deposit interest rates from 6 May Check details here
Sriram Finance has revised its fixed deposit interest rates effective 6 May 2026, following upgrades to its credit ratings by CARE Ratings, CRISIL Ratings, ICRA, and India Ratings. Here's all you need to know:
The I-T department has replaced the old Form 10E with the new Form 39 for taxpayers to claim relief on salary arrears and specified receipts under Section 157(1) of ITA 2025. Here's all you need to know
I asked ChatGPT and Gemini what how much home loan i can afford on a 7-9 lakh salary. Here's what advice the chatbots gave me
The RBI has announced premature redemption for Sovereign Gold Bonds on 20 April 2026. Investors stand to gain over 200% from their initial investment, benefiting from both capital appreciation and 2.5% annual interest during the holding period.
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund: HDFC Bank, ITC and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings in March
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund, a new entrant, reported an AUM of Rs 15,258 crore in March, with HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank as its top holdings. The portfolio also includes Bharti Airtel, Reliance Industries, Infosys and ITC, based on data from Prime Database.
Nine midcap stocks, including Physicswallah and Jubilant Foodworks, may be downgraded to smallcap in AMFIs H2 CY26 rejig, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities. Revised market capitalisation thresholds could trigger reclassification, impacting mutual fund portfolios and stock positioning across categories.
11 gold ETFs offer up to 59% return since last Akshaya Tritiya. Do you own any?
Gold ETFs have delivered significant returns, with some offering up to 59% since the last Akshaya Tritiya. Tata Gold ETF led with a 59.42% return. Experts suggest digital gold via ETFs or funds of funds is preferable for investment. Gold remains a crucial asset for portfolio diversification and hedging against inflation and economic uncertainty.
New ITR forms for AY 2026-27 require investors to disclose NBFC, HFC and corporate fixed deposit interest under Schedule OS. Here's what you must report before 31 July 2026.
Building wealth for your family is only half the job. The other half nobody does.
Decades of disciplined investing can unravel overnight if families cannot locate accounts or understand succession rules. A Will and a simple financial map can prevent chaos.
Balanced advantage funds move in sync with marketsbut not in the same way
Indias top five BAFs in terms of investor assets cut and add equity through the cycle, but differences in models drive sharp variation in timing, range and conviction.
A survey reveals that 31% of consumers feel cheated when buying silver, with 93% supporting mandatory hallmarking to ensure purity and quality of silver products.
DA hiked by 2%: Salary boost for govt employees - How much more will you take home?
The new DA hike of two per cent is an increase over the existing rate of 58 per cent in the Basic Pay. The hike now takes the Dearness Allowance to 60 per cent.
Tax clearance required every time you leave the country? PIB fact checks viral claim
Under Section 230 (of the Income Tax Act, 1961), tax clearance certificates are not mandatory for all individuals, said PIB
A LinkedIn post by a CA discusses how high income does not guarantee wealth, citing lifestyle inflation as a key issue. Many earners struggle to save due to rising expenses, emphasising the need for better financial planning. Details here.
The PPF is a popular long-term savings option offering safety, steady returns, and tax benefits. With a current deposit rate of 7.10%, strategies like timing contributions and using spouse accounts can maximize returns, according to experts.
At 6% inflation, 1 crore will lose significant purchasing power over 20 years, equating to roughly 31 lakh today. Investing wisely can help maintain value, as leaving money idle in savings accounts risks financial stability due to inflation's impact on real income.
Why most SIP investors fail midway And how the 7-5-3-1 rule can help you create real wealth
The main challenge in mutual fund SIPs is staying invested long enough to benefit from compounding. The 7-5-3-1 rule emphasises patience, diversification, and emotional discipline to build long-term wealth, showing that staying invested for at least 7 years significantly increases portfolio value.
SBI Mutual Fund : HDFC Bank and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings in March
Wipro among 18 stocks from which these 7 mutual funds made complete exit in March. Check details
Centre approves 2% DA and DR hike for central govt employees, pensioners ahead of 8th Pay Commission
The government has approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners. Details here.
5 equity mutual funds offer over 15% annualised return on SIP investments in 10 years. Check details
Akshaya Tritiya remains proven entry point for gold investors: Motilal Oswal
Gold continues its role as a trusted asset for Indian households, blending tradition with financial security. Investors are showing increased interest in flexible gold options alongside traditional purchases. Global factors like geopolitical tensions and economic growth concerns support gold's appeal. The outlook for gold remains constructive for medium to long-term investors, with a 'buy on dips' strategy recommended.
Gold funds vs ETFs: Where should mutual fund investors place their bets this Akshaya Tritiya?
Gold ETFs and Gold Funds offer different advantages for investors. Gold ETFs are more cost-effective and tax-efficient. Gold Funds provide easier access for those without a demat account. Experts suggest Gold ETFs for first-time investors seeking direct exposure. Gold's outlook remains constructive, though near-term volatility is expected. Investors should view gold as a hedge, not a core portfolio allocation.
Planning to buy Gold on Akshaya Tritiya? Heres how to check hallmark and purity of 24K, 22K Gold
With Akshaya Tritiya near, gold buying is set to rise. Buyers must ensure jewelry authenticity using these steps
Mutual Fund SIP: Why is making the first crore the hardest thing to do?
The toughest part of building a 10 crore retirement fund is reaching the first 1 crore, which may take 14 years. However, with compounding and consistent SIP investments, subsequent crores can be accumulated significantly faster
Hidden cost of delaying investments: Starting SIPs late can kill crores from your portfolio
Starting early in investment significantly impacts wealth creation due to compounding. Aman, investing 5000 at 25, accumulates 2.75 crore by 60. Delaying investment reduces returns, emphasizing the importance of timing over the amount invested.
Credit cards provide a grace period for interest-free payments if the full amount is repaid by the due date. Paying only the minimum incurs high interest on remaining balances, late fees, and potentially losing the grace period. Details here.
Capital gains from property sale? How to balance tax saving with long-term wealth creation
Investors selling property face a choice: reinvest for tax savings or maximize long-term wealth. Financial expert Shweta Jain advises a balanced approach for a 10-year horizon, suggesting a mix of high-growth equities and stable instruments. While reinvesting in property offers tax benefits, it limits liquidity. Diversification is key for optimal returns and financial flexibility.
Multiple sources of income can include monthly interest, quarterly dividends, quarterly REIT, InvIT distributions, alternative investments, freelance projects, etc.
8th Pay Commission: 32,400 to nearly 69,000 basic pay? Fitment factor for govt salary hike decoded
8th Pay Commission: Fitment factor is the multiplier that converts old basic pay into revised basic pay. Here's how the minimum basic pay could rise depending on the various fitment factors demanded by employee unions, and those projected by brokerage firms
The child education allowance has been raised from 100 to 3,000 per month per child, while the hostel allowance has gone up from 300 to 9,000 per month per child. Here's a breakdown of how much one can save on tax, who can claim, other details
National Savings Certificate vs tax-saving FD: Which offers better returns?
While both NSC and tax-saving FDs have a standard 5-year duration, they differ in several key factors, including interest rates and compounding intervals.
As equity markets hit their lowest point in six years, conservative investors are increasingly gravitating toward fixed deposits.
Millions of Indians are investing every year, but not everyone is building wealth Heres why
A large share of those new entrants are first-timers. Many came in during a bull run and haven't yet seen a serious correction. That matters, because the biggest threat to their wealth won't be a bad fund, it'll be their own reaction when markets turn.
Early investment in the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana secures a stronger financial future for a girl child through long-term compounding, tax-free returns and disciplined savings.
PMS or AIF: Where are HNIs finding better risk-adjusted returns?
Studies show that top PMS strategies have generated around 60 basis points of excess return per month over benchmarks. More importantly, roughly 7 out of 10 PMS strategies have beaten their benchmarks. Thats not easy, especially in markets where beating the index itself is tough.
Secure your future with these government-backed schemes in India that offer stable returns, tax benefits, and predictable income, making them ideal for long-term financial planning in 2026.
6 AMCs see over Rs 50,000 crore AUM drop in March; top 2 see Rs 1 lakh crore fall
PSU mutual funds see Rs 4,498 crore outflow in March: Report
PSU mutual funds saw Rs 4,498 crore in outflows in March, a mild improvement from February, according to Vallum Capital. While PSU funds posted strong long-term returns, sector trends were mixedconsumption saw withdrawals, but manufacturing, infrastructure, defence and pharma attracted fresh inflows, signalling a pivot toward domestic capex themes.
Want regular income from mutual funds? Here is why SWP offers more control than dividend
Generating a steady income from investments is a common goal for many investors, especially those looking to balance growth with regular cash flow.
Income tax penalties can occur due to default in tax payments, incorrect reporting of income, and, in some cases, misreporting of income, which is considered a severe issue. Here's when 50% and 200% fines apply.
Zero tax on 20 lakh CTC? How a smart car lease can cut your tax under the new regime
Smart salary structuring unlocks major tax savings on car leases under the new tax regime, showing how a 20 lakh CTC can significantly reduce taxable income and enhance take-home efficiency.
Your Cibil score could update faster. Here's what changed
RBI has mandated lenders to report credit data weekly instead of fortnightly to ensure more accurate and fresh credit scores. This shift enables faster loan approvals and quicker score recoveries for borrowers but also means defaults are detected much faster.
PPF investment: How to build a 1 crore corpus at 7.1% and how long it takes
The PPF crorepati reality check shows that disciplined, long-term investing at 7.1% can build 1 crore over 25 years, highlighting tax-free compounding, stability, and the need for patience.
Gold ETFs have rallied up to 61% since last Akshaya Tritiya, driven by geopolitical tensions, central bank buying, and safe-haven demand. Experts advise sticking to asset-allocation disciplinebooking profits only if gold exceeds target weights. While valuations look stretched, long-term investors may continue SIPs as structural drivers remain supportive.
7 mutual funds trim stakes in 20 midcaps. Heres how money moved in March
Twelve stocks signaled bullish momentum by moving above their 200-day moving averages, indicating strengthening trends and potential upside continuation.
Best aggressive hybrid mutual funds to invest in April 2026
Hybrid mutual funds, particularly aggressive hybrid schemes, offer resilience in volatile markets due to their equity and debt mix. These funds, mandated to invest 65-80% in stocks and 20-35% in debt, help conservative equity investors manage risk while aiming for wealth creation. Regular profit booking by fund managers can also enhance returns.
PPF vs ELSS vs NPS: Where does 5,000/month grow the most? 15-year returns compared
PPF, ELSS, and NPS are popular tax-saving investments, differing in structure, eligibility, and returns. Here's the best tax saving option.
Trump accounts explained: Eligibility, contribution limits, tax benefits for parents
Trump accounts explained: A new savings scheme, referred to as Trump accounts, is designed to help families start building wealth for children from birth. Here's how it works.
Investing in children's future is crucial for parents, with options like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, NPS Vatsalya Yojana, and PPF accounts. These plans help build savings for education and healthcare, offering tax benefits and high interest rates, ensuring financial stability.
Secure retirement planning can turn a 50 lakh retirement corpus into a balanced income engine. Here is how you can blend SCSS, mutual funds, equities and debt for inflation-beating, tax-efficient long-term financial stability.
Asset allocation involves distributing investments across various asset classes to manage risk and return. Common categories include fixed-income instruments, equities, and precious metals. Here's what investors should know.
Lumpsum vs SIP: What mutual fund investment will make you more money? Here's which to choose
SIPs and lumpsum are two approaches an investor can take when venturing into mutual funds. Here's a look at how both work, what are the benefits and which you should choose depending on your risk appetite and financial goals.
Bajaj Life rolls out Nifty 500 Low Volatility 50 Index Fund for ULIP investors: All you need to know
Bajaj Life Nifty 500 Low Volatility 50 Index Fund offers ULIP investors stable, long-term growth through a disciplined, low-volatility equity strategy.
Small habits, big bills: Why convenience costs more than you think
Hidden fees and spending traps in food delivery and OTT apps are eroding your savings.
AMFI Rejig: BSE and Vodafone India among 8 midcap stocks that may get largecap status
Nuvama Institutional Equities predicts eight mid-cap stocks may be upgraded to large-cap status by AMFI in its H2 CY26 rejig. This potential upgrade is based on current market capitalization trends, with the largecap cut-off expected to be around Rs 1.04 lakh crore. Indian Bank, Bosch, Jindal Steel, and Indus Towers are among the prominent names anticipated to transition.
Which sectors attracted mutual fund interest in March? Check details
Mutual funds favored Healthcare, Technology, and Utilities in March, increasing their weights. While most sectors saw value declines, Infrastructure, Technology, and Healthcare experienced the least. Private Banks maintained the highest weightage despite a slight dip, and NBFC-Non Lending saw significant over-ownership.
Market fall exposes flaws in aggressive mutual fund bets. Time for a reset?
Fund investing, which investors once saw as easy to manage independently, suddenly looks very discomfiting and complex in 2026. Investors feel unsure if their portfolios are constructed correctly, whether their choices carry good long-term prospects, and doubt their capability to generate returns.
New labour laws: Here's how much your in-hand salary changes for 6 lakh CTC
Effective from this fiscal year, the new labour laws are reshaping your monthly compensation structure with more focus on long term and retirement savings. Here's how much your in-hand salary is likely to be impacted for 6 lakh CTC
Equity-oriented mutual funds saw a 17.38% year-on-year growth in average net assets under management in March 2026, driven by strong investor confidence. Flexi cap funds emerged as the largest and fastest-growing category, with average net AUM rising 25.10% to Rs 5.28 lakh crore.
Mutual funds deploy Rs 1,878 crore across 4 IPOs in March. Check details
Mutual funds invested Rs 1,878 crore across four IPOs in March, led by Sedemac Mechatronics and Central Mine Planning & Design Institute. The data highlights strong institutional participation in new listings, with sizeable allocations and shareholdings reflecting confidence in select offerings during the primary market activity.
Mutual fund SIPs not enough for Rs 3 crore goal in 12 years? Heres how to bridge the gap
Planning for long-term financial goals through mutual funds requires not just consistency, but the right asset allocation and regular portfolio reviews.
Steady wealth creation can be achieved through mutual fund SIPs, as investors should continue to focus on disciplined investing, rupee cost averaging, and compounding amid global market volatility.
Why Aditya Birla Sun Life MF's Balasubramanian sees a 10-year bull market beyond the dip
A. Balasubramanian, CEO of Aditya Birla Sun Life MF, views market corrections as conviction tests, urging investors to increase allocations during red periods to lower average costs. Mint explores the funds strategic deployment of cash into mid- and small-caps
New tax regime allows meal card benefit 5 conditions to claim 200 per meal tax-free
From April 1, 2026, the tax-exempt limit on employer-provided meals have been increased to 200 per meal, up from 50 earlier. Here are the key conditions to claim the benefit.
Individual policy, family floater, or top-up: Which is the most cost-effective?
With employer insurance often falling short, a top-up plan can offer a cost-effective way to build adequate family health protection
8th Pay Commission: NCJCM's 69,000 basic pay proposal and 3.83 fitment factor explained
8th Pay Commission proposal sparks buzz as NCJCM suggests 69,000 minimum basic pay for Group C employees, based on an elaborate table of expenses, driven by rising living costs, higher fitment factor and detailed expense-based calculations.
Consent-driven credit: Why consumer-controlled data is shaping the future of lending
Consent-driven credit is reshaping lending in India by giving consumers control over their financial data through the Account Aggregator framework. This shift is improving credit access, accuracy, and trust, especially for underserved borrowers.
Mutual funds raise tech exposure in March after 8-year low. Tactical move or trend reversal?
Mutual funds raised tech exposure in March after an eight-year low, driven by tactical rebalancing and improved valuations. Experts say global cues like US tech recovery and easing rate concerns are aiding sentiment. Despite recent losses of up to 25%, the sector outlook remains gradually positive, supported by AI and cloud trends, though near-term volatility persists.
6 mutual funds made complete exit from 12 smallcap stocks in March
Six mutual funds fully exited 12 smallcap stocks in March as part of active portfolio rebalancing, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities. HDFC, SBI and Nippon India Mutual Funds led the exits across multiple stocks, while others trimmed select holdings, reflecting cautious positioning and ongoing churn in the smallcap segment.
PPF investment: How 5K monthly grows to 41 lakh and why investing before the 5th matters
The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a long-term savings option favored by risk-averse investors for its government backing and tax benefits. Here's how much 5K, 10K and 12K investments can grow over 15 years and with 5-year extensions.
Multi-asset funds offer consistent returns if not quite the big bang
The strategy has, however, lagged higher-returning asset classes such as gold and global equities, with 14.7% and 18.6% annualised returns, respectively, over the same period. How gold, equity or debt behaves in isolation is very different from how a well-constructedcombination performs, said Aashish Sommaiyaa, ED & CEO, WhiteOak Capital Mutual Fund.
