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Bank holiday today, 26 August: Will SBI, HDFC and others remain open on Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi?
Banks in several Indian states will be closed on August 26 to observe Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, which celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
Taking Stock: Window to process and sell imported sugar extended
The government has extended the deadline for selling imported sugar domestically. Importers now have two months to sell processed sugar after filing bills. This change comes as domestic sugar prices reached record highs recently. Sugar millers had requested more time due to import processing delays. India's closing sugar stock is projected to be lower than targeted.
SC refuses to reopen Class 12 CBSE revaluation portal
The Supreme Court declined to reopen the CBSE Class XII exam verification portal. The court noted the portal was already open for all students. Reopening the portal could lead to numerous fresh claims from students. A plea challenged the On-Screen Marking system's implementation without teacher training. The plea alleged scanning irregularities and evaluation errors in answer sheets.
L&T wins 5,000-10,000 cr 'major' order to build 3 battery storage projects in Middle East
Larsen & Toubro said its renewables business has won a major order in the Middle East to develop three battery energy storage system projects with a combined capacity of 6 GWh.
ONGC to revive Venezuela oilfield
ONGC Videsh will invest $200 million to revive Venezuela's San Cristobal oilfield. The company secured a US license for continued operations and investments. This investment aims to significantly increase current production levels. The ultimate goal is to restore output to its previous peak. ONGC will fund PDVSA's share and recover costs from future production.
Court stops FSSAI from cancelling ITC's licence over its '100%' claims
The Delhi High Court has restrained FSSAI from cancelling ITC's licence. This action follows a dispute over the 100% claim on Aashirvaad Chakki Atta. The court sought a response from the health ministry regarding the advisory. ITC challenged the FSSAI advisory as arbitrary and beyond its powers. The next hearing is scheduled for September 9.
Hyderabad Airport to slash user fees from Sept 1
Hyderabad airport passenger fees will decrease starting September 1, 2026. The aviation regulator has slashed airport development charges for millions of travelers. Domestic departure fees will drop to 515 from the current 750. International departure fees will also fall from 1,500 to 1,030. Arriving passengers will pay reduced fees for both domestic and international travel.
Indians part with old jewellery to cash in on soaring gold prices
Household gold sales are surging as prices reach record highs this month. Consumers are liquidating gold to meet rising living costs and secure gains. Major jewelers like Kalyan Jewellers and Tanishq now offer expanded cash-for-gold services. This trend brings a traditional service into the organized retail sector for sourcing recycled gold. Consumers are increasingly using household gold for other purchases due to inflation.
Varun Beverages to foray into alcohol biz, set up subsidiary
Varun Beverages is entering the alcohol business by incorporating a new subsidiary. The company has appointed Prathmesh Mishra as the chief executive officer. This new entity will focus on ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages and allied products. Varun Beverages will also establish a joint venture company in Tunisia. This diversification follows recent agreements allowing expansion into other drink businesses.
Sunny side down? Egg prices rise on ethanol push
Rising diversion of maize to ethanol production has significantly increased poultry feed costs, leading to a 35-40% surge in egg prices over the past year. Maize prices have nearly doubled in three years, impacting the poultry industry which relies on it for 65-70% of its production costs. Experts anticipate further price increases as winter demand rises and maize diversion for ethanol is projected to grow.
Grip strength, gait may soon measure biological lifespan, says Dr Prateek Sharma
Genes influence lifespan, but lifestyle and environment are crucial for longevity. Biological age will soon be measured by new indicators beyond chronological age. Healthy life expectancy boosts India's economy significantly, benefiting all stakeholders. The focus is shifting from lifespan to healthspan, adding energy and reducing disease. Evidence-based nutrition science is vital, dispelling myths about magic diets.
Carlisle Investors to approach PMO over alleged HDFC Bank mis-selling
Investors are planning to write to the Prime Minister's Office this week. They allege mis-selling and substantial losses from a Carlisle product. The group also intends to approach the Reserve Bank of India. They are exploring legal action against HDFC Bank for alleged client-suitability lapses.
India adds 1.26 million credit cards in July as spending rises; HDFC, SBI lead the way
healthy demand Industry card additions rise 11.5% over June; Card spends hold above 2 lakh-crore mark; Transaction volumes surge but the value per transaction declines
New mines law seeks to bring tax uniformity
A new Mines and Minerals Act, 2026, aims to standardize mining taxation across India. This legislation seeks to bring uniformity and predictability to financial viability for mining activities. It addresses pending retrospective levies, providing greater certainty and confidence to the industry. The move follows a Supreme Court verdict allowing states to levy additional taxes.
EAC moots consolidation to create a few large banks
India needs to consolidate banks into a few large entities. This consolidation aims to meet rising credit needs for Viksit Bharat by 2047. Banks will increasingly focus on data-driven customer experiences and AI automation. The banking sector has seen significant positive changes since 2014. Future agendas include mobilizing stable deposits and deepening productive lending.
Uttarakhand government approves 25-year power procurement from Adani Power
The Uttarakhand Cabinet approved a 25-year power purchase agreement with Adani Power for 1,320 MW of coal-based electricity at 5.746 per unit. The power will come from a plant being set up in Chhattisgarh and is expected to be supplied to the state from FY30.
Indias lower-middle-class consumers are not abandoning digital channels, but 2026 data shows a surprising shift towards offline transactions. Bill payments, food orders and travel bookings have moved back to physical channels.
A LinkedIn post highlighted financial challenges faced by professionals with high salaries but high expenses. Many save little due to lifestyle inflation.
Grocery spending fell 8% while rent rose 21%, showing a mixed picture for household budgets in 2026. GST 2.0 brought price relief, but families largely used the extra headroom for savings, better food, education, and health rather than splurging.
SEBI eases NRI KYC rules: Will a fully digital route boost investments in India?
SEBI's proposed digital KYC and onboarding process aims to ease investment for retail NRIs by removing the requirement for physical presence in India.
NPS 100% equity option explained: How it works, who should consider it and key rules
NPS now allows non-government subscribers to access schemes with up to 100% equity exposure under the Multiple Scheme Framework. But higher equity also means higher market risk. Heres what investors should know before choosing the option.
Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) reported a record consolidated net profit of 10,176 crore in FY26, up from 6,820 crore a year earlier, while their total business crossed 13.5 lakh crore, the Finance Ministry said.
Want higher returns without taking much more risk? Add equity, then gold
A study by WhiteOak Capital Mutual Fund reveals that diversification improves risk-adjusted returns. It shows that including a small equity allocation in a debt portfolio can enhance returns and lower volatility
India court to re-hear Volkswagen's challenge to $1.4 billion tax demand, sources say
An Indian court will re-hear Volkswagen's challenge to a significant tax demand. This decision comes more than a year after arguments in the case were concluded. Indian tax authorities allege the automaker mis-declared auto component imports over a period. The German automaker has defended its import valuation practices for many years. No verdict has been announced in this ongoing tax dispute.
Centre revises cost of 993 road and 190 railway projects
The Centre has revised the cost estimates of 993 road and 190 railway projects among 1,775 infrastructure projects worth 150 crore and above being monitored as of July-end 2026.
Centre aims to cut foreign reliance in key power systems by 2029
India is drawing up a roadmap to develop indigenous software and hardware for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems used to monitor and control the power network, as it seeks to eliminate dependence on foreign technology in critical electricity infrastructure. The CEA has proposed developing most software and hardware modules by 2028-29, backed by pilot projects, a dedicated testing ecosystem and government funding.
Only 0.5% F&O traders make money: Why most keep losing; how to control losses and make trading safer
A SEBI study indicates that 96.5% of F&O traders lose after four years, largely due to poor risk management and psychological biases.
Mondelez India, Amway withdraw misleading claims on products after FSSAI notices
FSSAI said several food companies, including Mondelez India and Amway India, have withdrawn or revised misleading claims on product labels and advertisements after receiving notices from the regulator. Mondelez withdrew health and nutrient comparison claims from its products and removed related advertisements from e-commerce platforms. Sapiens Labs and Kerala-based Juza Foods also removed misleading claims.
PSBs eye govt portal to hire youth under 'Banking for Youth' initiative
State-owned banks plan to use the MY Bharat portal to offer internships and training to young people and build a pipeline for recruitment into entry-level banking jobs
Indian mutual fund investors are holding their investments longer, while women and younger investors are taking greater equity exposure. AMFI-Crisil data also shows regular-plan investors have longer holding periods, even as the industry's allocation shifts from debt towards equity.
Bonds are finally within reach. But do you know what youre buying?
Sebis 10,000 minimum has opened the bond market to retail investors. Before chasing a higher yield, here are the five things that matter.
31% lower-middle-class Indians prioritise home ownership over business, travel: Survey
The desire to own a home was particularly strong among women surveyed. Around 40% of female respondents said buying a house was among their key financial priorities for the next five years.
Indian equity benchmarks ended higher on Tuesday, with the Nifty rising 0.48% and Sensex gaining 0.37%, led by Adani Enterprises, Max Healthcare and Apollo Hospitals. Broader markets were mixed, while Pharma and PSU Bank stocks outperformed. HDFC Life, Cipla and ONGC were among the top Nifty losers.
Small-cap funds can differ sharply in how closely their portfolios resemble their benchmarks. But does a lower overlap translate into better returns? The latest data offers some surprising insights into the link between active bets and performance.
Hindustan Copper OFS subscribed over 3 times; govt to exercise greenshoe option
Hindustan Coppers government OFS received strong demand from non-retail investors, with bids reaching 3.41 times the shares offered. The Centre will exercise the greenshoe option, potentially raising the stake sale to 6%, with retail bidding opening August 26.
Enterprise Voice AI in India: How AI-powered voice technology is scaling across businesses
Enterprise Voice AI is moving from pilots to production, helping businesses deliver faster, multilingual customer interactions at scale. The Economic Times AI Business Transformation Masterclass & Awards 2026 will explore how enterprises are deploying Voice AI across industries, with a live demonstration showcasing what production-ready technology looks like in practice.
RBI proposal to curb NBFCs' revolving credit may choke MSME funding, says industry body FISME
FISME has urged the RBI to reconsider its proposal to bar NBFCs from offering revolving credit, warning that a blanket ban could disrupt working-capital finance for MSMEs. The industry body said revolving credit helps small businesses manage cash-flow gaps, as they can draw funds when needed, pay interest only on the amount used and restore their credit limit after repayment.
Hyderabad:For years, Section 22A of the Registration Act was something only government clerks and property lawyers thought about. Since early August this year, it has become the most feared phrase in Hyderabads property market. Thousands of owners in Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Medchal-Malkajgiri and Sangareddy have gone to sell a flat or a plot, only to be Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Times Health+ live online yoga classes: How they work, schedule and what to expect
Times Health+ Yoga brings guided yoga practice into the comfort of your home through live online sessions. From choosing a convenient class and preparing your space to following an instructor in real time, discover how the format works, what beginners can expect and how online sessions can make building a consistent yoga routine easier.
State governments need to see the economic potential of golf course, says PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl
Golf courses present a remarkable opportunity for state governments to enhance their economies. By investing in more golfing facilities, real estate values could rise significantly and entice foreign investments. Hundreds of golf courses are essential in India to fulfill economic aspirations. The Professional Golf Tour of India is actively boosting player welfare and infrastructure. Golf has the potential to stimulate tourism and become an accessible lifestyle choice for many people.
India pivots to US for LPG, LNG as West Asia crisis disrupts Gulf supplies
India is sharply increasing LPG and LNG imports from the United States as West Asia disruptions constrain traditional Gulf supplies. US LPG accounted for over 73% of Indias LPG imports in August, while US LNG volumes also rose. Russia remains Indias largest crude supplier, while Venezuela and the UAE gain importance as India diversifies energy supplies amid geopolitical risks.
Silver, Swarovski and 999 Rakhis: Indians are giving the humble festival thread a luxe upgrade
Instamart reports a twenty-fold increase in premium rakhi demand this year. Searches for jewelry brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Palmonas have tripled. The platform offers a wider selection and additional incentives for customers. Lucknow and Ahmedabad are leading markets for these premium rakhi purchases. Customers are increasingly starting their Rakhi shopping several days ahead of the festival.
Exercising ESOP? Know these rules regarding taxation
6 changes in ITR-4 for presumptive taxation for AY27
Avaada Group plans Rs 10,000 crore green industrial campus in Haryanas Hisar
Avaada Group plans to invest around 10,000 crore to develop a 300-acre green industrial campus in Hisar, Haryana. The Zero-CBAM project, aimed at helping industries meet global carbon requirements, is expected to create more than 5,000 jobs.
India's FAST Scheme 2026 provides a unique opportunity for taxpayers to declare foreign assets. This voluntary disclosure window closes on December 31st, 2026, offering significant benefits. Taxpayers can regularize undisclosed foreign assets and income by paying a specified tax and penalty. Failure to declare by the deadline will result in harsher penalties under the Black Money Act. This scheme is crucial for individuals with unreported overseas investments and income.
Should you invest in SIFs? Experts explain who these funds are meant for
Specialised Investment Funds are emerging as an alternative to traditional equity mutual funds, offering long-short strategies, greater flexibility and active market management, but with higher investment requirements and greater complexity.
Can a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP build a Rs 1 crore corpus? Check how long it may take
A Rs 10,000 monthly SIP can build a Rs 1 crore corpus in 20 years at 12% returns, while annual SIP increases can significantly shorten the wealth creation journey.
Can you deduct brokerage and STT from capital gains? A tax expert explains
Capital gains tax treatment differs for brokerage, STT and loan interest. Learn which investment expenses can be deducted, which are excluded and how taxpayers should assess borrowing costs.
Global trade shake-up reaches fashion as Zara supplier Pearl Global eyes Africa market
Pearl Global eyes North Africa and Jordan for manufacturing expansion. This move aims to serve European customers and diversify production bases. The company is reducing its reliance on the United States market. Other Indian garment exporters are also increasing African production. Pearl Global anticipates significant revenue growth in the coming years.
7 equity mutual funds delivered over 15% returns in 3 months. Did you park your cash in any?
Taxpayers engaged in business activities must submit either ITR-3 or ITR-4 by the deadline of August 31, 2026. While ITR-4 simplifies the process through presumptive taxation, ITR-3 demands a more detailed presentation of accounts.
Tata Communications, Tata Motors partner to launch 5G-powered Sierra.ev
The Tata Communications MOVE Connected Vehicle Platform will integrate with the N.IO SDV platform, enabling seamless connectivity and enhanced in-vehicle experiences
Can your employer see your ITR? Supreme Court steps in over data privacy concerns
The Supreme Court advised the government to collaborate with domain experts to devise an antidote to the problem and requested action preferably within four months.
Indian steel industry poised for volume-led recovery in H2FY27: Report
India's steel industry is likely to see a volume-led recovery in the second half of FY27, supported by lower input costs, easing maintenance disruptions and strong domestic demand, according to Yes Securities Institutional Equities.
Kedaara Capital bets $200m on Indias ortho market
SBI Gold Fund topped the three-year SIP return chart at 44.11%, followed by Axis Gold Fund at 43.84%, while equity funds delivered around 20-21%. The one-year data shows a shift, with Bank of India Small Cap Fund leading at 50.13% and ITI Small Cap Fund at 42.06%.
The 8th Pay Commission is set to convene in Bengaluru, to hold crucial discussions regarding salaries, pensions, and working conditions with a variety of stakeholders. Additional consultations will be organized in cities like Jaipur, Chandigarh, Chennai, and Puducherry during August and September 2026.
Earning under 12 lakh doesnt guarantee zero tax for professionals CA explains hidden tax rule
For individuals with business or professional taxpayers, opting out of the default new regime, or subsequently returning to it, involves a specific compliance process.
India's data centre footprint to touch over 101 million sq ft by 2030
Indias data centre footprint is projected to exceed 101 million sq ft and capacity 6.7 GW by 2030, driven by cloud adoption, AI, digital payments and enterprise digitisation. Anarock says $300 billion in investment commitments will support expansion, but land, reliable power, connectivity, cooling and renewable energy remain critical constraints.
Hyundai taps Reliance-backed Jio-bp for EV charging
Bank unions have announced nationwide strikes over five-day banking, a disputed PLI scheme and pension demands, with indefinite action threatened from October 26.
Tata Steel gets relief in 1,755 cr coal mining case
Onions may get cheaper in Delhi-NCR soon
Rs 4.5 crore retirement fund: Build a monthly income plan with SWP & bucket strategy
FedEx bets $150m on Delhi airports cargo future
Gold and silver prices saw minor changes on August 25, 2026. Tanishq, Malabar, Joyalukkas, and Kalyan Jewellers offered 22k gold at Rs 15,010 per gram. IBJA reported 24K gold at Rs 16,234 per gram and silver at Rs 2,43,446 per kg. These rates exclude GST and making charges. Market attention focused on US inflation data and Fed Chair's speech.
The real problem with F&O is not risk. It is behaviour
Sebis latest F&O study does more than count losses. It reveals the behavioural biases that keep traders overconfident, chasing losses and returning to a market that repeatedly hurts them.
Wholesale buyers savour softening sugar even as households' wait for a sweeter deal continues
Wholesale sugar prices have seen a significant 15% fall due to recent government import decisions. Traders are optimistic about further reductions as fresh supplies are set to arrive shortly. However, consumers will not notice a drop in retail prices just yet as old inventory needs to be sold off first.
Gold can cushion portfolio downturns, improve risk-adjusted returns: WhiteOak Capital MF study
Investing in a mix of equities, fixed income, and gold can lead to improved risk-adjusted gains. Gold often acts as a safety net when stock markets decline. By incorporating assets with varying correlations, one can enhance the whole portfolio's performance. Historical evidence reflects gold's resilience during downturns in equities over different fiscal years. This analysis demonstrates that a diversified asset allocation effectively mitigates risks across diverse market environments.
HoABL, NITCO ink pact for 40-acre, Rs 4,500 cr mixed-use project in Alibaug
House of Abhinandan Lodha is teaming up with NITCO Ltd to develop an impressive mixed-use project in Alibaug that promises to generate revenues around Rs 4,500 crore. This ambitious venture will include high-end apartments, exquisite townhouses, and a boutique hotel. With a planned investment of Rs 1,000 crore dedicated to construction, HoABL is enhancing its footprint in the premium real estate market.
Delhi HC asks FSSAI to hold off on ITC licence action over 100% atta
The Delhi High Court has asked FSSAI to pause its decision on ITC's licence cancellation. ITC challenged the regulator's advisory regarding '100%' claims on food product labels. The court sought FSSAI's response to ITC's petition and will hear the matter again. ITC argues existing regulations permit such claims on its atta product. The court directed no decision be taken until the next hearing on September 9.
Axis Bank bets on data centres to gold loans to outpace industry credit growth
Demand is coming from sectors including data centres and small businesses as well as retail borrowers looking to monetise their gold
Bernstein cuts PFC, REC target prices as bank competition weighs on loan growth
Bernstein has retained an Outperform rating on Power Finance Corporation (PFC) and REC but cut its target prices and loan-growth estimates, citing stronger competition from banks, slower renewable capacity additions and improving financial health among state-owned DISCOMs. The brokerage lowered its target to Rs 465 for PFC and Rs 410 for REC, while reducing FY26-FY28 loan-book growth estimates to 7%.
No higher maintenance for bigger flats: Court
PPFAS GIFT has cut the minimum investment in its Nasdaq-100 and S&P 500 fund of funds from $5,000 to $500. The 90% reduction lowers the entry requirement by about 4.3 lakh for eligible investors seeking US equity exposure through GIFT City.
Axis Banks growth hunt to run from data to gold
Moving abroad for work? Check these EPF rules before you leave India
Employees moving abroad and foreign nationals working in India may fall under EPFOs International Worker rules, which can affect PF contributions, withdrawals, pension eligibility and social-security coverage.
India's aviation regulator is considering mandatory annual random drug tests for all pilots. This proposal follows a recent Air India incident, prompting policy review. Currently, only ten percent of pilots undergo random drug testing each year. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is consulting stakeholders on potential rule changes. Any new policy will balance aviation safety with airline operational impacts.
India puts a cap on who can win its airports
Tamil Nadu plans new international airport near Chennai after dropping Parandur project
Tamil Nadu plans to establish a new international airport near Chennai to meet growing passenger and cargo demand, with alternative sites to be identified and assessed by the Airports Authority of India. The plan follows the state government's decision to abandon the proposed Parandur airport project over environmental and livelihood concerns.
MF Tracker: ITI Small Cap Fund delivers 25% returns, tops 3-year chart. Should you book profits now?
ITI Small Cap Fund topped the three-year return chart with a 25.19% return, outperforming its benchmark and category average. While strong stock selection drove much of the outperformance, experts caution investors against extrapolating recent gains. With small-cap valuations appearing broadly fair, investors should focus on portfolio allocation, risk appetite, investment horizon and rebalancing rather than booking profits solely based on past
IHCLs merger with Oriental Hotels is expected to be EPS accretive and strengthen its presence in South India, according to brokerages. Nomura, Goldman Sachs and JM Financial retained Buy ratings on IHCL, citing potential cost synergies, asset optimisation and direct ownership of key properties. The merger is expected to close in FY28.
Breaking your FD before maturity? Check these 5 things before withdrawing your fixed deposit
Planning to break your fixed deposit before maturity? Check premature withdrawal penalties, revised interest rates, tax implications and FD-backed loan options to understand the real cost and make a financially informed withdrawal decision.
Why experience alone is not enough for the next level of leadership
The Indian School of Business presents PGP MAX, designed specifically for senior leaders boasting over ten years of experience. This modular program is crafted to enhance leadership skills at the enterprise and C-suite levels through thorough learning. Participants will acquire a global viewpoint and vital decision-making skills required to navigate complexities, thereby aligning their functional expertise with strategic insights for influential leadership in today's ever-evolving landscape.
Rooftop solar and KUSUM scheme are driving India's solar capacity growth. These initiatives accounted for forty percent of additions in the current fiscal year. Utility-scale projects face transmission challenges, impacting their expansion. India added significant renewable capacity in the previous fiscal year. Future additions may moderate as transmission infrastructure develops.
MSE: Building the capital markets of a Viksit Bharat
India's capital market is on the brink of a transformative shift as more investors engage actively. The Metropolitan Stock Exchange (MSE) is dedicated to cultivating a resilient financial framework, improving accessibility, and mitigating costs for emerging investors throughout the nation. With a versatile platform powered by advanced technology, this initiative aspires to broaden wealth generation opportunities and contribute to the countrys overall prosperity.
NU Vista receives 15.41 crore Show Cause Notice for input tax credit irregularities
Cement firm NU Vista received a 15.41 crore notice alleging input tax credit irregularities. The notice covers four fiscal years from 2020-21 to 2023-24. It proposes denying input tax credit for civil construction and canteen expenses. The company also faces proposed denial of output tax credit reduction from sales returns. NU Vista claims sufficient evidence and expects no major financial impact.
Puravankara inks joint development pact to develop 7.83-acre in south-east Bengaluru
Puravankara has signed a joint development agreement for a 7.83-acre residential project in southeast Bengaluru with an estimated 1,100-crore development value. The deal takes its FY27 Bengaluru land additions to nearly 50 acres, with potential GDV of 6,300 crore.
Income tax notices: 8 notices salaried employees could get after filing ITR and what to do next
