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Income Tax, Finance Changes, April 1 LIVE Updates: The New Income Tax Act comes into effect today, April 1, 2026. Get real-time updates on tax slabs, increased standard deductions, and the simplified capital gains regime. See how your take-home salary changes today.
The new Income-Tax Act effective from 1 April may impact your take-home salary as companies adjust components and exemptions and taxes come into play. Here's what could change
Centre notifies income tax return forms for AY27: Here's all you need to know
The income-tax department has notified all seven ITR forms for AY2026-27. Taxpayers must choose the correct ITR form based on their past tax filing history and current income profile.
How do I secure my business recipe and brand for the next generation?
A 70-year-old soft drink entrepreneur seeks advice on passing on his recipe, brand name, logo and other intellectual property to his children through structured estate planning.
In Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced no income tax for salaries up to 12 lakh under the new tax regime. Taxpayers must choose between new and old regimes based on their financial situation.
Your gold jewellery in bank lockers may not be fully insured. Here's how you can truly secure it
Indian households hold 25,000 to 30,000 tonnes of gold, mostly in jewellery and coins, with significant wealth gains from rising gold prices. Here's how to navigate the questions over storage, safety, insurance, investment and risk-returns.
Confused about EPF? 5 common myths on interest, pension and retirement age decoded
EPF rules explained with clarity on interest, pension eligibility, withdrawals, and retirement timelines, helping salaried individuals optimise EPF benefits and avoid costly misconceptions in long-term financial planning.
Starting 1 April 2026, significant financial rule changes will affect taxpayers, bank customers, and digital payment users in India, including the new Income Tax Act and the two-factor authentication for digital transactions. Details here.
CBDT clarifies TDS on bank interest under the Income Tax Act 2025, ensuring clear thresholds, senior citizen benefits and smooth compliance, helping depositors manage fixed deposits and recurring interest efficiently.
How the West Asia war is impacting airfares and what should you do
Fuel spikes, airspace closures and lifted fare caps are pushing ticket prices sharply higherreshaping business and leisure travel plans across domestic and global routes.
Setting return expectations in mutual funds? Here is what investors need to know
Setting realistic return expectations is crucial for mutual fund investors, especially in volatile markets. Experts highlight that returns cannot be guaranteed, and AMFIs indicative ranges should only be used for planning. Investors should align expectations with goals, risk appetite and time horizon, rather than chasing fixed or past returns.
Wellness, risks and returns: Inside Rakulpreet Singhs investment strategy
The actor-entrepreneur invests in fitness, food, and lifestyle brands, betting on passionate founders while managing losses strategically.
Planning to invest in smallcaps? These top 5 funds deliver 28%+ annualised returns in 3 years
Top small-cap mutual funds have delivered over 28% annualised returns in three years, attracting investors seeking high-growth opportunities despite higher risk.
RBI Sachet Portal helps users verify financial institutions, report fraud, and track complaints.
Duration or accrual: Where should debt investors park money now?
Debt mutual funds follow different strategiessome bet on falling rates, others earn steady income. With yield spreads wide, heres how duration and accrual strategies stack up now.
Rupee under pressure? Baroda BNP Paribas Aqua FoF offers a global growth hedge
Investors are exploring global equity markets for diversification and growth, especially with the Indian rupee facing pressure. The Baroda BNP Paribas Aqua Fund of Fund offers dual benefits: exposure to international equities and potential gains from currency depreciation. This thematic fund focuses on the water value chain, providing geographical diversification and reducing reliance on domestic market cycles.
Market crashes teach what no book or course ever can
The only way to truly learn investing is to live through the fear and the panicbecause markets dont test your knowledge, they test your nerve. Real conviction is forged not in bull runs, but in moments when staying invested feels hardest.
8th Pay Commission to visit Dehradun on 24 April; stakeholders can apply by 10 April
8th Central Pay Commission Dehradun Visit 2026 invites stakeholders for consultations on pay, allowances, and pensions. The deadline to submit participation requests for the 24 April meeting is 10 April.
Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund emerged as the top-performing mutual fund of FY26, delivering over 171% returns, driven by a strong semiconductor and AI-led rally. Experts caution against chasing past performance, advising investors to treat it as a high-risk satellite allocation within a diversified global portfolio.
April 1 Financial Rule Change LIVE Updates: ITR, PAN, salary, LPG prices set for major revisions
April 1 Financial Rule Changes LIVE Updates: One of the most significant changes from 1 April is the implementation of the new Income Tax Act, 2025. Follow Mint's LIVE coverage of 1 April financial rule changes.
The Centre has kept interest rates of small savings schemes unchanged for the April-June 2026 quarter. Here's how much you get for PPF, NSC, Sukanya Samriddhi, Kisan Vikas Patra and post deposits.
When do banks deduct TDS on interest income? 50,000 rule explained
With the Income Tax Act, 2025, taking effect from 1 April 2026, the I-T department clarified that TDS on interest will apply only above the set thresholds. The definition of banking company remains broad, ensuring no extra TDS burden on depositors due to legal changes.
JDA and capital gains: What happens when family members co-own property
When a property is settled among family members before a joint development deal, can capital gains be fully exempt if each retains a flat? Heres how Sections 82 and 86 apply.
Home loan after 60: 5 ways pensioners can boost credit score, improve approval chances
Improving credit score after 60 can ease home loan approvals, with simple steps like timely repayments, and joint applications helping pensioners secure better loan terms and rates. This can be accomplished successfully, with proper planning and guidance from a certified financial advisor.
A structured personal finance plan for FY27 helps manage taxes, investments and spending with ease, ensuring disciplined money management, timely compliance and steady long-term financial growth.
The unplanned expense in your 50s: Paying for ageing parents care
Geriatric care mainly has two recurring expenses: round the clock care and medical costs.
Bank locker loss? Why RBI rules have capped the compensation limit Explained
Banks provide locker holders compensation fixed at 100 times the annual locker rent in case of loss, Nirmala Sitharaman said while replying to a question in Lok Sabha.
Gold, silver tumble up to 44% from January peaks. Is it time to buy the dip or stay cautious?
Gold and silver saw sharp corrections after strong rallies, driven by rising yields and macro pressures. Experts advise staying calm, favoring gold, and maintaining disciplined, long-term investment strategies.
For long-term investors, staggered investments through diversified equity funds remain a prudent way to navigate volatility, says Sanjay Grover, MD and CEO, Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund.
What are FD-backed credit cards? Are they worth it? Benefits, risks and best options
FD-backed credit cards offer a simple way to build a credit score using fixed deposits, with easy approval, steady interest earnings, and manageable risks when used responsibly and strategically. Here is a list of the top credit cards against fixed deposits in 2026.
Can chasing tax-efficient mutual funds hurt your overall investment strategy?
Investors seeking tax-efficient funds should prioritize risk appetite and financial goals first. Equity mutual funds offer tax advantages for long-term investments. However, these funds can be volatile. Arbitrage funds present a lower-risk alternative with similar tax benefits. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed investment decisions.
7 personal finance rules you can't ignore to make your FY27 successful
Master personal finance rules to make FY27 successful by tracking spending, managing debt, building emergency funds, investing smartly, reviewing insurance, automating savings and planning taxes efficiently.
SBI Share Price Live Updates: SBI's Market Update
Looking for best flexi-cap mutual fund? Experts explain why strategy matters more than returns
Experts advise investors to look beyond past returns when choosing flexi-cap mutual funds. Understanding a fund's strategy, risk-taking, and asset allocation, like the cash holdings in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund versus HDFC Flexi Cap Fund, is crucial. Aligning fund manager philosophy with personal financial goals ensures a resilient portfolio.
According to an X post by CA Nitin Kaushik, who claims to be an expert in tax and financing, the new Income Tax Rules will to some extent shrink your take-home salary.
The 12% surcharge: who's affected and who benefits from the new share buyback rules?
A flat 12% surcharge on buyback gains has replaced the old slab-based system, creating a surprising divide between small promoters and the corporate elite.
Top 5 LIC plans in 2026: Benefits, eligibility criteria, premiums and more
Prominent LIC plans in 2026 offer a mix of life cover and savings with stable returns, tax benefits, and flexible payouts, helping investors decide based on long-term goals, premiums, and risk appetite.
Paying on time isnt enough, credit utilisation matters too: HDB Financial CCO Rohit Patwardhan
Paying EMIs on time alone isnt enough, high credit utilisation and frequent loan applications can still hurt your credit score by signalling over-dependence on credit.
Power Grid Share Price Live Updates: Power Grid's Financial Performance Snapshot
Best medium duration mutual funds to invest in March 2026
Most mutual fund advisors do not recommend medium and long term debt schemes to regular investors. These schemes are extremely sensitive to changes in the interest rate environment. They suffer when the rates go up. Mutual fund advisors say many conservative investors would find it difficult to handle the volatility faced by these schemes.
Bharti Airtel Share Price Live Updates: Bharti Airtel's Market Performance Update
UltraTech Cem Share Price Live Updates: UltraTech Cement's Current Price and Returns Analysis
Hero MotoCorp Share Price Live Updates: Hero MotoCorp's Current Price Analysis
Bajaj Finserv Share Price Live Updates: Bajaj Finserv's Performance Snapshot
Titan Company Share Price Live Updates: Titan Company stock price drops slightly today
Tech Mahindra Share Price Live Updates: Tech Mahindra's Stock Overview
M&M Share Price Live Updates: M&M Stock Decline and Long-Term Gains
Axis Bank Share Price Live Updates: Axis Bank Faces Daily Decline
Jubilant Foodworks shares in focus as LPG shortage hits Domino's Pizza's India operator
Jubilant Foodworks faces operational pressure as LPG supply to parts of its Dominos and Dunkin outlets is constrained amid Middle East tensions. The company is switching to alternative energy sources and engaging with oil marketing companies. QSR stocks have declined in March, while India ensures LPG imports remain uninterrupted.
April 1 Financial Rule Changes LIVE: One of the most significant changes from 1 April is the implementation of the new Income Tax Act, 2025. Follow Mint's LIVE coverage of 1 April financial rule changes.
A sharp sell-off in precious metals amid extreme stress runs counter to their usual role as diversifiers.
Zerodha limits fee increase to less than 1% of its users
Zerodha has revised its brokerage plan, now applying higher charges only to derivative traders with a cash collateral shortfall exceeding 5 lakh. This change, effective April 1, impacts less than 1% of its active equity derivative clients.
How an NRI can fight an ex parte tax order
You should register on the income tax e-filing portal using your PAN, add your email ID, and update your address to your current foreign residence as an immediate step
Vedanta is preparing to split into five distinct listed companies next month. This significant restructuring aims to unlock substantial shareholder value. The demerger will allow each new entity greater autonomy for growth. Vedanta's market value is projected to increase considerably following this strategic move. The company's debt will also be managed across the new firms.
These top 10 equity mutual funds offer over 38% return in FY26. Check details
Indian investors saw remarkable gains in equity mutual funds during FY26, with over 553 funds analyzed. Eight funds delivered over 50% returns, and two even achieved triple-digit returns. Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund and ICICI Pru Strategic Metal and Energy Equity FoF led the pack with exceptional performance, highlighting strong global and sector-specific opportunities.
Equity mutual funds lose up to 6% last week; international funds among worst hit. Check top 5 losers
Equity mutual funds experienced significant losses last week, with top performers shedding up to 6%. While global markets like Nasdaq and S&P 500 also declined, some Asian indices saw gains. Conversely, specific funds focused on metals, energy, and technology delivered positive returns.
April 1 Financial Changes LIVE: A host of new changes are coming into effect from 1 April, 2026, as the new financial year begins. Follow Mint's LIVE coverage of 1 April financial rule changes.
Why you lose money holding precious things: The emotional tag
From empty flats to losing stocks and unused wardrobes, the Endowment Effect makes us overvalue what we own. Heres how emotional pricing quietly erodes wealthand how to stop paying the ego tax.
The noisy pursuit of money versus the quiet creation of wealth
The obsessive tracking of portfolios, the anxiety over short-term market movements, the urge to trade rather than holdall of these confuse activity with progress. They mistake the scoreboard for the game.
You can give mutual funds as a gift card soon. Here is how
Sebi has proposed prepaid Gift PPIs that let you gift up to 10,000 for mutual fund investments a move aimed at easing first-time investors into the market.
Parag Parikh Liquid Fund among top 5 low cost and high return funds in 1 year
Parag Parikh Liquid Fund ranks among the top low-cost funds delivering strong one-year returns with high liquidity and stability.
8 equity mutual funds offer over 50% return in FY26. Do you own any?
Eight equity mutual funds achieved over 50% returns in FY26. Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund led with 158.46%. These top performers were all international funds. Many other funds also provided positive returns. However, a significant number of funds experienced losses during the financial year. This analysis highlights the performance of equity funds.
Are you questioning mutual fund sahi hai after 10% portfolio loss? Expert explains bigger picture
Recent market volatility has many new mutual fund investors questioning their choices, especially with portfolios showing losses. Experts explain that market-linked instruments like equity funds naturally fluctuate with global events. While short-term dips are common, patience and a long-term view are crucial for wealth creation. Understanding your risk tolerance is key to deciding if mutual funds are the right fit.
Changes from April 1 2026 LIVE: Several confirmed financial and regulatory changes will come into force across banking, fuel, taxation and travel. These changes will have a direct impact on the day-to-day lives of Indian citizens.
Can you use two health insurance policies for one hospital bill? Here's what experts say
Many individuals hold multiple health insurance policies, such as a corporate cover and a personal plan. Claiming from both policies is permitted. Here's what policyholders must know.
What are balanced advantage funds? 5 reasons why they can help you navigate market volatility
Balanced Advantage Funds can help investors manage market volatility through dynamic asset allocation between equity and debt, offering stability, tax efficiency, and disciplined investing for long term wealth creation.
How becoming a loan guarantor can hurt your retirement income and credit score
Pensioners should be mindful when considering becoming a loan guarantor, as a borrowers default could impact their retirement savings, credit score, and overall financial stability, potentially leading to legal obligations and added financial pressure on a limited income.
Is India really one of the cheapest places to retire? 1 cr, 2 cr or 10 cr - How much is enough?
Most global retirement models assume that individuals retire around the age of 60 and need to fund 2025 years of expenses. That assumption is quietly becoming outdated.
In its notification on Thursday, the government said it was slashing the special additional excise duty on petrol from 13 per litre, to 3 per litre. Similarly, the duty on diesel was reduced from 10 per litre to nil. Here's what that means for your pocket.
ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund reclassifies its thematic advantage FoF as aggressive hybrid active FoF
ICICI Prudential Thematic Advantage Fund (FOF) will be reclassified as ICICI Prudential Aggressive Hybrid Active FOF from April 1, 2026. This change aligns with SEBI's new framework for Fund of Fund schemes. The fund will now invest predominantly in active mutual fund schemes, aiming for enhanced performance across market cycles.
Sebi simplifies gifting of mutual funds. Here's what it means for investors
Sebi has proposed a new Gift PPI framework that will allow investors to gift prepaid instruments that can be used exclusively to buy mutual fund units. The move aims to boost financial inclusion, attract first-time investors, and encourage a shift from gifting consumption to gifting investmentsthough strict limits and compliance norms apply.
Got a banking complaint? Follow RBIs 3-step process before approaching Ombudsman
The RBI complaint process guides customers in resolving banking grievances by first approaching regulated entities, obtaining an acknowledgement, and escalating unresolved issues to the RBI Ombudsman for resolution.
10 key financial changes from 1 April 2026 that will directly impact your finances
Financial and regulatory changes in April 2026 include new tax rules, higher rebates, updated TDS forms, increased banking charges, changes in fuel prices and new travel refund rules. Here are 10 financial changes to look out for.
Wealth First Portfolio Managers receives Sebi nod to launch mutual fund business
Wealth First Portfolio Managers has secured approval from Sebi to begin mutual fund operations. The new entity, Lakshya Asset Management Company, will be headquartered in Ahmedabad. Lakshya AMC aims to introduce innovative investment products. Key members from Benchmark Asset Management, pioneers of ETFs in India, have joined the Lakshya AMC team.
What strategy should investors follow for underperforming mutual funds? Experts explain
Equity mutual funds have seen declines following a Nifty fall. Experts suggest a staggered approach for lump sum investments, deploying about 30% now and spreading the rest. Investors can also use liquid schemes for daily or weekly Systematic Transfer Plans. Loss-making thematic or sectoral funds may need trimming.
Equity mutual funds lose up to 48% on SIP investments in FY26. Have you added any to your portfolio?
Equity mutual funds experienced significant losses in FY26, with SIP investments declining by up to 48%. Domestic funds largely ended in the red, while international funds showed stronger performance. Technology and small-cap funds were among the biggest losers. Experts advise a diversified approach for FY27, focusing on broader international and Indian funds for SIPs.
Best gilt mutual funds to invest in March 2026
Gilt funds are debt mutual funds that invest in government-securities or G-secs. As per Sebi norms, these schemes must invest 80% of their corpus in government securities. As you see, these schemes invest in government papers or they lend to the government. Therefore, they dont have any credit risk or they face zero defaults. However, they are extremely sensitive to interest rate changes.
Gold and silver ETFs fall up to 5%. Should investors buy the dip or stay cautious?
Gold and silver ETFs fell up to 5% despite a recovery in MCX prices, driven by a weaker dollar and easing geopolitical tensions. Experts attribute the recent decline to higher yields and profit booking, but suggest SIP-based investing to capitalise on dips, citing strong medium-term fundamentals for precious metals.
Amidst sell-off, Nifty Top 10 Equal Weight Index looks like a good bet
Investors with higher risk appetite are eyeing Nifty Top 10 Equal Weight Index schemes following a market sell-off. The index's recent underperformance, driven by foreign institutional selling, presents a potential buying opportunity with attractive valuations in large-cap stocks.
Retirement planning can benefit from allocations in the public provident fund, the employees' provident fund or the national pension scheme, which offer relatively higher interest rates and tax exemptions. Here's a comparison of the key features:
March 31 deadline looms: Here are last-minute tax-saving moves for FY 26
You can bump up your tax deductions under Section 80C if you are still under the old tax regime by adding 50000 to the NPS (National Pension Scheme). The NPS addition under Section 80CCD(1B)) will take your total deduction to 2 lakh.
Why estate planning in India is never a one-size-fits-all
India's diverse legal landscape complicates estate planning, influenced by personal laws, marriage statutes, and geography. For interfaith couples, these layers can overwhelm, necessitating clear wills
Planning your daughters future? Here are 10 money moves parents must make
Planning your daughters future involves investing in products such as Sukanya Samriddhi, mutual funds, PPF, insurance, and health cover while setting clear goals to ensure financial security and long-term growth for her future.
Legal heir vs nominee explained: Why estate planning is crucial before writing your will
Planning your will? There is a difference between a legal heir and a nominee when it comes to inheritance. Here is how estate planning can help your family sidestep complications in the event of a sudden death
Turned 60? Here are 5 smart asset allocation strategies for a secure retirement
Discover smart asset allocation strategies for retirement that safeguard your savings, boost growth, and secure a steady income for a worry-free, comfortable future.
Dont let rent eat your paycheck: A starter guide
Rent shapes everything: how much you save, how stressed you are, and how quickly you build a financial cushion. As rents climb and entry-level salaries struggle to keep pace, the tough question is: how much is too much?
LPG price hike, supply crunch, and the pivot to alternate means
Rising LPG prices, supply delays and black market spikes are squeezing households and small eateries, triggering a rush toward electric cooking alternatives.
Mutual fund NFOs: 5 new funds are open for subscription now. Check details
Timeless investment lessons from Think and Grow Rich show key strategies to stay confident, make smarter decisions, and grow wealth even during uncertain and volatile market conditions.
Zerodha's Nithin Kamath warns corporate health insurance may not be enough here's why
Nithin Kamath advises against relying solely on employer-provided health insurance due to limitations and potential gaps. He emphasises the importance of purchasing a personal health policy for better coverage and financial protection, especially given the rising medical inflation in India.
