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Many professionals in their 40s discover that their biggest financial mistakes were not bad investments, but delayed decisions. By this stage, income is often at its peak, but competing obligations can make it easy to feel wealthy even as you fall behind on long-term goals.
Should you switch SIPs to last years top-performing fund? This study has the answer
Investors who switch based on the previous year's performance may end up buying into a segment after much of its rally has already occurred. For long-term SIP investors, consistency and discipline may prove more effective than repeatedly chasing the latest market winner.
UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund passively tracks the Nifty 50 Index, whereas the ICICI Prudential Large Cap Fund is actively managed with the objective of outperforming its benchmark through stock selection.
Energy mutual funds: Meaning, top 5 funds, key factors, advantages and risks explained
Energy funds are thematic equity schemes that invest primarily in companies in the energy sector. These funds invest in oil & gas exploration, refining, power generation and distribution, coal mining, renewable energy, energy equipment, and financing companies.
For good weather plus softer luxury pricing, aim for April, May, September, or early October.
Lost money to cyber fraud? RBI's new rules offer compensation of up to 25,000
Customers who lose money in digital banking frauds will get stronger protection under the RBI's revised framework from January 2027. The new rules shift the burden of proof to banks, introduce compensation for small-value frauds and impose stricter complaint-resolution timelines.
NFO: 5 mutual funds and 1 SIF are currently open for subscription. Check details
Five mutual funds and one SIF are open for subscription, covering hybrid, index, life cycle, multi-sector, FoF and multi-asset categories. Key offerings include Kotak Infinity Hybrid Long-Short SIF, Zerodha Life Cycle Funds 2036 and 2041, HDFC Nifty Auto Index Fund, Tata Multi Sector Passive FoF and JM Multi Asset Allocation
1,800 monthly EPF contributions can build nearly 19 lakh retirement corpus here's how
A small EPF contribution can create significant retirement wealth over time. Investing 1,800 monthly in EPF for 25 years at an 8.25% interest rate can grow into a corpus of nearly 19 lakh through compounding. Here's how.
Gold loans have emerged as a strategic driver of financial inclusion, outpacing all other credit products with 84% growth YoY in FY26, according to an Experian report. It has expanded beyond traditional southern markets to Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.
Adding gold to portfolio can boost returns without significantly increasing risk: WhiteOak study
A WhiteOak Capital study highlights the benefits of a multi-asset strategy, showing that combining equity, debt and gold can improve risk-adjusted returns. The analysis suggests that adding gold reduces portfolio volatility due to its negative correlation with equities, supporting better diversification across market cycles.
Top 10 mutual funds to invest through SIP with investment horizon of 5 years. Check details
Top SIP mutual fund performers over five years show strong wealth creation potential, with gold, infrastructure, midcap, and smallcap funds delivering XIRR up to 53%. However, investment decisions should consider risk profile, horizon, and financial goals.
A woman shifted to Bengaluru from London and reduced more than 50 percent of her monthly rent. She also pointed out how she saves money by carrying her meals/dabbas during outings and taking bike taxis in the city. Check it out.
Planning a Rs 7 crore corpus in 12 years? Expert recommends active funds over index funds
An investor's query about active versus passive funds for long-term goals received expert advice. While index funds offer low costs, active management in India presents opportunities for outperformance due to information inefficiencies. A 10% annual SIP step-up is recommended to reach a Rs 7 crore corpus. The expert suggested replacing an index fund with a focused actively managed fund for better diversification and potential returns.
Avoid tax credit mismatches during ITR filing with the Income Tax Challan Correction Rules 2026. Taxpayers can now correct eligible challan details online, helping ensure accurate tax records, faster return processing and smoother compliance.
The opportunity cost of waiting for the perfect entry or exit point
The stock market does not wait for investors to feel ready.
Why most investors underestimate operational risk in crypto investing
Some of the biggest losses in the history of digital assets have had little to do with market movements.
How can Indians invest in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan markets? Key risks and tax rules explained
Japan, South Korea and Taiwan offer Indian investors exposure to some of the world's best-performing markets. While direct investing is legally permitted under the LRS framework, the practical ease of access varies considerably across markets.
Old vs new tax regime: Which one wins for a 12 lakh salary? Here's the math
Budget 2025's enhanced tax rebate has made a 12 lakh salary effectively tax-free under the new regime. But can HRA, NPS and other deductions help the old regime catch up? A detailed comparison shows the answer.
ITR-3 vs ITR-4: Who can file, who cannot and how to choose right return form
ITR-3 is for individuals and HUFs reporting business or professional income, as well as income from salary, house property, capital gains or other sources. ITR-4 is for resident individuals, HUFs and firms (other than LLPs) that opt for the taxation scheme under Sections 44AD, 44ADA or 44AE.
Looking for midcap mutual funds in June? Here are 5 funds to consider
ETMutualFunds shortlisted midcap funds using rolling returns, consistency, downside risk, outperformance, and minimum Rs 50 crore assets. Axis, PGIM, Invesco, Kotak, and Tata delivered strong three-year returns, suitable for high-risk investors with seven-to-ten-year horizons.
Post Office savings accounts get Aadhaar e-KYC upgrade to ease deposits and withdrawals
Post Office banking is getting a digital boost with Aadhaar e-KYC transaction facilities. The new rules simplify POSA, RD and SSA deposits and withdrawals, offering paperless services, easier authentication and convenient inter-branch access for eligible customers.
Income Tax Dept flags swapped deduction claims; 20,000 cases under lens
Tax authorities have identified thousands of cases in which taxpayers allegedly altered deductions or exemptions when revising their returns.
MF Tracker: How Edelweiss Large Cap Fund logged positive returns in last 10 calendar years
Edelweiss Large Cap Fund has achieved a remarkable decade of positive returns, never dipping into negative territory. This consistency is attributed to its FACTOR investment strategy, emphasizing active risk management and a quality-focused stock selection process. While it has underperformed benchmarks in shorter periods, its long-term performance and strategic sector allocations, particularly in financial services and healthcare, highlight its resilience.
EPFO: Services on official portal to be unavailable from 26-28 June Here's all you need to know
The EPFO is undertaking a system migration to enhance service delivery, improve processing efficiency, and provide a better user experience on its portal. Here's a look at what this means, how EPF members will be impacted and what subscribers can do
Gold and silver prices today, 25 June: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
Best medium to long duration funds to invest in June 2026
Conservative investors are steered towards safer, short-term debt funds, often overlooking medium to long duration options due to their inherent interest rate sensitivity. These longer-term funds, while potentially rewarding in falling rate environments, carry significant volatility and risk when rates rise. Advisors caution that predicting interest rate movements is challenging, making timing entry and exit crucial for those with a higher risk appetite and long investment horizon.
Dearness Allowance in India 2026 explained: Meaning, calculation, taxability and benefits
Dearness Allowance impacts salaries and pensions in India. We explain how DA calculation, taxability, benefits, types and 2026 updates help employees and pensioners manage inflation and plan their finances effectively.
The Mumbai BEST bus employee unions have made multiple demands from the Maharashtra state government regarding salary hike, implementation of the 7th pay commission recommendations, retirement and gratuity payments.
6th vs 7th vs 8th Pay Commission: Why the widening basic pay gap is drawing attention
A widening pay gap is emerging as a key concern for the 8th Pay Commission. While salaries have increased across government services during earlier pay commissions, the rise in top-level basic pay has outpaced that of minimum pay, fuelling demands for a fairer, more balanced compensation structure.
Dearness allowance: Heres why 20% DA hike is significant for West Bengal state govt employees
Dearness allowance: Heres why West Bengal's 20% DA hike is significant for state government employees and retired pensioners. Check here to see how much of the salary gap has been reduced
SEBI eases NISM certification norms for relationship managers, sales executives | Full details here
Sebi has simplified the NISM certification process for sales and non-core staff in investment advisory roles, allowing them to obtain a lighter certification module based on feedback from market participants. This change aims to ease compliance for firms and will take effect immediately.
I asked ChatGPT if 5 crore is enough to retire in India. Here's what it said
A 45-year-old professional in Delhi estimates that 5 crore can support his retirement. With anticipated post-retirement expenses of approximately 15.8 lakh annually, the corpus exceeds this need, demonstrating the importance of calculating future expenses
Earning 15 LPA? Here's how much you can save in taxes in new and old regime
For salaried individuals earning 15 lakh a year, the choice between the old and new tax regime can significantly affect their tax outgo. Here's a detailed comparison of how much tax you may pay under each regime.
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.
India's asset wealth management AUM projected to reach US$ 1.7 trillion by 2030: PwC report
Indias asset and wealth management industry is projected to reach US$1.7 trillion in AUM by 2030, driven by rising retail participation, growing institutional pools and expanding digital financial infrastructure, according to a PwC report.
NFO Update: Ionic Asset announces launch of Global Asset Allocation Fund
Ionic Asset has launched the Global Asset Allocation Fund, a GIFT City-based, privately placed offering aimed at sophisticated investors, HNIs and UHNIs. The fund seeks to provide geography-agnostic multi-asset exposure through a mix of global equities, commodities and REITs, with allocations designed to capture long-term structural opportunities across markets and themes.
Harshad Mehta scam lessons: 5 investing mistakes retail investors still make today
Markets change, but human behaviour rarely does. The Harshad Mehta scam highlights five timeless investing lessons on due diligence, discipline, risk management and avoiding herd mentality, that can help investors make smarter financial decisions in today's stock market.
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.
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.
NPS update: PFRDA allows govt entities to use PoP services for 500 annually
Government entities facing operational and technical challenges in managing NPS functions can continue availing PoP services. PFRDA has fixed the charge at 500 per subscriber a year, effective immediately.
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.
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.
EPFO update: How to check EPF balance, employer contribution and FY 2025-26 interest credit
A small EPF check today can protect your retirement savings tomorrow. Track EPF interest, monitor PF balance and verify employer contributions regularly to ensure timely deposits, accurate account records and better financial security for the years ahead.
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.
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.
Energy transition has become a key investment theme for Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha Broking Ltd., as the US-Iran war reinforces the sectors importance and creates opportunities across its value chain.
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.
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.
AI chatbots can assist with financial advice but should not replace professional guidance. Their effectiveness depends on user prompts; poor questions may lead to inaccurate responses.
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.
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.
In Indias PMS boom, discipline may matter more than activity
As India's wealthy turn to PMS for concentrated bets, investors must look beyond returns and assess tax efficiency, deployment strategy and capacity discipline.
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.
Can a 10% annual SIP step-up help turn Rs 26,000 monthly investment into Rs 1 crore?
A 10% annual SIP step-up could boost a Rs 26,000 monthly investment towards Rs 1 crore in a decade, according to an expert. The analysis highlights portfolio overlap and suggests reallocating from large-cap and mid-cap funds to small-cap ones. Investors are advised to exit thematic and hybrid funds for better diversification and long-term wealth creation.
