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Why a same-sex couple is challenging the income tax law that exempts gifts only between spouses? Explained

The Karnataka High Court has requested the Union government to respond to a petition challenging tax exemptions for gifts between spouses, which currently excludes same-sex couples. Details here.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 11:11 pm

EPS 2026: New withdrawal rules and 20-day claim settlement explained

With EPS 2026, the pension system for organized sector employees is reformed for transparency and efficiency. It mandates a 36-month wait for withdrawal benefits, enforces a 20-day claim processing deadline, and supports higher pensions, while preserving existing benefits for current members.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 11:07 pm

If you invested like Trump, you'd be ahead of the S&P 500 here's what the US President is betting on

Trump's financial disclosures reveal he executed 21,285 stock trades in 2025, averaging one trade every five minutes. His portfolio has outperformed the S&P 500, with a 37.3% return since his inauguration. Here's a look at the US leader's portfolio .

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 10:32 pm

EPFO passbook portal restored after software upgrade; members can access accounts again ahead of 8.25% interest credit

The EPFO has restored its passbook portal after a two-week outage due to a database upgrade. Members can access their accounts again ahead of 8.25% interest credit. 

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 9:21 pm

Same salary, different loan amount? Here's why banks may treat borrowers differently

Lenders consider factors beyond income when approving loans, such as repayment history and financial habits. Two individuals with identical salaries may experience different loan outcomes based on their overall financial profiles.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 8:59 pm

Which ITR form should you file? A guide for salaried employees, pensioners and other taxpayers

The ITR forms have been revised for AY 2026-27, affecting ITR-1, ITR-4 and ITR-2. Taxpayers must ensure correct filing by reviewing income sources and changes to avoid complications. The filing deadline is 31 July 2026 for individuals and non-audited entities.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 7:25 pm

Sebi allows mutual funds to use intraday borrowing to manage liquidity mismatches

Starting September 1, 2026, SEBI allows mutual funds to use intraday borrowing to manage short-term liquidity mismatches for payouts. Asset management companies must cover all borrowing costs, ensuring no financial risk is passed on to the scheme investors.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 7:04 pm

AMFI Data: Gold ETF inflows rebound to 3,443 crore in June after May outflows, here's what changed

Gold ETF inflows rebounded sharply to 3,443 crore in June, reversing May's outflows as investors returned after profit booking. Experts say cooling gold prices and persistent global uncertainties revived demand for the safe-haven asset.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 5:25 pm

EPF vs PPF vs NPS: Which retirement scheme is meant for you?

Building a solid retirement corpus is crucial for financial planning. Popular schemes in India include EPF, PPF, and NPS, each differing in eligibility, contributions, and benefits. Details here.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 5:21 pm

These value mutual funds delivered the highest returns in 5 years. Should you invest?

Value funds, notably HSBC and ICICI Prudential, have yielded strong returns. Experts suggest that investors adopt a mixed strategy, combining value and growth stocks, to enhance portfolio performance throughout different market cycles.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 4:28 pm

Gold ETFs witness 570% surge in inflows in June, silver ETFs follow with 300% jump

Gold ETF inflows surged to Rs 3,443 crore and silver ETF inflows reached Rs 4,286 crore in June, reversing recent outflows. Investors increased allocations despite negative monthly returns, highlighting continued demand for precious metals as strategic portfolio diversification and passive investment options.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 4:18 pm

ITR filing: Switched jobs during FY 2025-26? Follow this checklist to avoid errors

Employees who changed jobs during FY 2025-26 should report salary from all employers while filing ITR for AY 2026-27. Verify Form 16, Form 26AS and AIS, report total salary correctly, and avoid tax notices, interest charges and refund delays. 

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 3:03 pm

Mutual fund delivered 15% CAGR? Why your returns may still be lower

Your mutual fund's published return and your actual return are often not the same. Experts explain why investor behaviour, rather than fund performance, is usually responsible for the gap.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 2:56 pm

Planning to invest in largecap mutual funds for 3 years? Here are 5 top performers with 19% gain

Five Nifty Next 50 ETFs topped large-cap fund performance with annualised returns of nearly 19% over three years, while five BSE Sensex index funds lagged, delivering modest single-digit annualised returns between 6% and 6.7%.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 2:06 pm

Nithin Kamath's remarks spark public spat between Zerodha and Groww over direct mutual funds

Zerodha's Nithin Kamath and Groww are debating direct mutual fund offerings publicly. Kamath reiterated Zerodha's commitment to free direct mutual fund plans. Groww clarified that its optional subscription service does not replace direct mutual funds. Direct mutual funds remain free for do-it-yourself investors on Groww. This debate highlights shifts in India's investment platform industry.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 1:55 pm

Equity mutual fund inflows jump 26% to Rs 28,973 crore in June; midcap funds lead flows

Equity mutual fund inflows saw a significant surge in June, reaching Rs 28,973 crore. Midcap funds attracted the highest investor interest, followed by small cap and flexi cap funds. Sectoral and thematic funds experienced a substantial jump in inflows during the month. Conversely, dividend yield and ELSS funds continued to witness outflows. This data reflects investor activity as reported by AMFI for the month.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 1:46 pm

CBDT directs AIS to show foreign investments, strengthening tax transparency and compliance

CBDT will upload foreign investment and overseas financial account information into taxpayers' AIS within 90 days under the AEOI framework. The move aims to improve tax transparency, simplify compliance, strengthen verification of foreign assets and encourage accurate income tax return filing.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 1:29 pm

Edelweiss Mutual Fund announces restriction on fresh subscription in 7 funds

Edelweiss Mutual Fund will halt new SIP and STP subscriptions in seven schemes. This suspension takes effect from July 10, 2026, impacting international and sectoral funds. Existing systematic transactions will continue as usual without any changes. The fund house cited nearing overseas investment limits as the primary reason for this decision. Investors were previously informed about subscription caps on these specific schemes.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 12:52 pm

8th Pay Commission: Should the highest government salary be capped? Here's what employee bodies want

Employee bodies have proposed contrasting approaches to determining the highest salary under the 8th Pay Commission, with some seeking a 1:12 cap between minimum and maximum pay while others oppose any such limit.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 12:43 pm

HDFC Defence Fund raises stake in Mazagon Dock, Tata Motors and 3 others in June

The HDFC Defence Fund boosted its holdings in Mazagon Dock and Tata Motors during June. It also added shares of Bharat Electronics, BEML, and Bosch to its portfolio. The fund completely exited Rishabh Instruments, selling its entire stake. Seventeen existing stock exposures remained unchanged, including Bharat Forge and HAL. The fund's performance has outperformed its benchmark in shorter timeframes.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 12:17 pm

20x rule explained: Simple property price test to decide if renting or buying a home is smarter

The 20x rule helps homebuyers compare property prices to rental values before deciding whether to buy or rent. Here's how the pricetorent ratio works, its benefits and limitations and how EMIs, appreciation and personal finances shape smarter housing choices.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 12:16 pm

NFO Insight: Can the NJ Momentum Fund help investors capture market momentum?

NJ Mutual Fund has launched the NJ Momentum Fund, an NFO that seeks to capture strong price trends through a rules-based momentum strategy backed by quality filters. While experts see momentum as a useful satellite allocation, they advise limiting exposure and caution that investors may be better off choosing proven, lower-cost existing momentum funds.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 12:14 pm

Gold, silver prices today, 10 July: Check retail rates of 24K, 22K gold, 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata

Gold and silver prices today, 10 July: 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, along with other important geopolitical updates. 

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 9:44 am

Best flexi cap mutual funds to invest in July 2026

Flexi cap funds offer fund managers investment freedom across market capitalizations and sectors. These schemes are recommended for moderate investors seeking long-term wealth creation over five years. Investors should carefully select schemes aligning with their individual risk appetite and temperament. Several flexi cap funds are highlighted for potential investment in July 2026. Performance metrics like rolling returns and downside risk guide fund selection.

The Economic Times 10 Jul 2026 9:26 am

Switched jobs recently? EPFO's new rule can make your PF transfer hassle-free

EPFO has removed the need for a separate provident fund transfer request when employees with Aadhaar-linked UANs change jobs. The move is part of a wider overhaul of the EPFO's digital platform aimed at making PF services faster and simpler.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 9:13 am

Ask the right questions before you borrow: CRIF's Sachin Seth

CRIF India's Sachin Seth discusses how India's credit ecosystem has matured through Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and digital lending infrastructure, and why risk-based pricing and secured credit products like gold loans are gaining traction. 

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 9:00 am

Nithin Kamath explains difference between direct and regular mutual funds, urges investors to review plans

Zerodha co-founder Nithin Kamath has asked investors to understand the difference between direct and regular mutual fund plans. He said many investors remain unaware of the higher costs associated with regular plans and advised reviewing their portfolios to identify their existing investments.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 7:29 am

8th Pay Commission: Railway engineers seek pay parity, Group B status and better career growth opportunities

Railway engineers have urged the 8th Pay Commission to restore pay parity, grant Group B status and improve promotions. Their demands, raised during stakeholder consultations, could shape future salary, pension and allowance reforms for 1.1 crore Central government employees and pensioners.

Livemint 10 Jul 2026 6:52 am

8th pay commission: Submission window for data collection portal extended Check date, website, process, FAQs

8th pay commission: Window for submission of data online for the 8th CPC's consideration has been extended to 31 July this year. Here's how to complete the process and some of the frequently asked questions answered

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 11:12 pm

Heavy rains damaged your car? Here's what motor insurance covers and what it doesn't

Heavy rains can damage your car, but not every repair is covered by insurance. Here's what comprehensive policies pay for, common claim exclusions, and mistakes that could lead to claim rejection.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 7:07 pm

Renewing your car insurance this monsoon? Experts explain which add-ons are actually worth paying for

A comprehensive car insurance policy may not cover every monsoon-related expense. Experts explain which add-ons are worth buying to reduce repair costs and improve financial protection. 

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 6:58 pm

West Bengal govt to release 50% of estimated Dearness Relief arrears for pensioners in Kolkata All you need to know

The West Bengal government will release 50% of estimated Dearness Relief (DR) arrears to pensioners in the Kolkata municipal area in an interim measure that aims to provide immediate relief for state govt retirees. 

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 5:59 pm

Is 80 lakh enough to retire? 31-year-old woman wants to quit govt job for 'peace'

The woman said she has been employed at a PSU for the past seven years and is in a comfortable financial position. According to her post, she has no outstanding debt, follows a modest lifestyle and has accumulated significant savings over time.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 5:49 pm

US-Iran war: Defence funds surge, IT lags; experts share what mutual fund investors should do

Since the start of the US-Iran war in February, the Nifty Defence Index has delivered positive returns of 18.7%, while the Nifty IT Index declined 12.5%. Experts advise investors to avoid short-term reactions, focus on diversified funds, and use SIP investments during periods of market volatility.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 5:48 pm

Already have 3-5 SIPs running? Expert shares a checklist before you add another fund

Investors who already have 3 to 5 SIPs running should review their existing portfolio before adding another fund. The expert recommends focusing on 5 key areas: goal alignment, portfolio overlap, risk balance, contribution sizing, and regular portfolio reviews.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 4:19 pm

NFOs: 13 mutual funds and 2 SIFs are open for subscription. Check dates and key details

Around 13 mutual funds and two Specialized Investment Funds are currently open for subscription across categories including hybrid, index, ETF, multi-asset and large & midcap funds. Investors can choose from offerings by ICICI Prudential, SBI, Mirae Asset, UTI and others.

The Economic Times 9 Jul 2026 3:49 pm

ITR-2 filing for AY 2026-27: Step-by-step guide to file income tax returns correctly before 31 July deadline

ITR-2 filing for AY 2026-27 requires careful reporting of capital gains, multiple properties, foreign assets and other income. Learn who must file ITR-2, key online filing steps, deadline and practical tips to submit accurate tax returns before 31 July 2026.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 3:20 pm

59% of large and midcap stocks are at least 20% below their record highs, offering long-term opportunities: Abakkus MF

Around 59% of large and midcap stocks are trading at least 20% below their all-time highs after the recent market correction, creating attractive long-term investment opportunities, according to Abakkus Mutual Fund. The fund house believes improving earnings, reasonable valuations and active stock selection could drive the next phase of returns.

The Economic Times 9 Jul 2026 2:28 pm

Top 5 dividend yield funds based on 5-year returns: ICICI Prudential Dividend Yield Fund leads with 19.95% returns

Based on 5-year CAGR performance, ICICI Prudential Dividend Yield Equity Fund has emerged as the top-performing scheme in the category, delivering 19.95% returns. LIC MF Dividend Yield Fund and HDFC Dividend Yield Fund follow. 

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 2:05 pm

EPFO's 2026 overhaul: key takeaways from the latest EPF, EPS, EDLI schemes

The new EPF Scheme, 2026 does not make higher PF contributions optional. Here's what remains unchanged, what has changed, and what it means for employees and employers.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 2:02 pm

Section 54 relief: ITAT allows tax exemption on 23 flats, wipes out 8 crore demand

A Bengaluru ITAT ruling allowed a landowner to claim capital gains exemption on 23 flats received under a redevelopment deal. The relief, however, applies to older joint development agreements executed before key tax law changes.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 1:52 pm

Selling gold in 2026? Your holding period could decide how much tax you pay

Gold ETFs, gold mutual funds and physical gold are taxed differently, with holding periods ranging from 12 to 24 months to qualify for lower long-term capital gains tax. Selling too soon could result in gains being taxed at your income-tax slab rate instead.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 1:48 pm

ITR filing 2026: Claiming a Section 80G deduction? Don't miss this new requirement

Taxpayers claiming deductions under Section 80G will now have to disclose payment reference details while filing their income tax return. The new disclosure is part of the Income Tax Department's push to digitally verify deduction claims. 

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 1:47 pm

EPFO's new PF transfer system: How to move your EPF balance without paperwork

EPFO has introduced 2 online EPF transfer options under the new scheme, enabling employees to consolidate PF accounts, preserve service history, improve pension eligibility, avoid tax issues on eligible withdrawals and also secure EDLI insurance benefits of up to 7 lakh.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 1:44 pm

New Income Tax Act: CBDT issues FAQs on pending tax cases, TDS and transition rules

CBDT has clarified how pending tax cases, assessments, and TDS certificate applications will move after the Income-tax Act 2025 takes effect from April 2026. The FAQs explain which matters stay under the old law and which follow new provisions.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 11:58 am

FCNR deposits: a compelling opportunity for NRIs

That combination of high foreign-exchange returns, no exchange-rate risk, and tax-free interest in India makes FCNR compelling.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 11:21 am

EPS Scheme 2026 vs EPS 1995: What changes for employees under new pension framework?

The EPS 2026 has replaced EPS 1995, introducing a new pension framework under the Code on Social Security, 2020. The new scheme retains key pension benefits and contribution rates while adding digital compliance, a 20-day claim settlement timeline and interest on delayed claims. 

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 10:34 am

Can a Rs 58,000 monthly SIP build a Rs 10 crore corpus in 16 years? Expert reviews portfolio

A Rs 58,000 monthly SIP with a 10% annual step-up may not reach the Rs 10 crore goal. Increasing the annual SIP step-up to 20% could exceed the target corpus. The expert suggests rebalancing market-cap allocation for better diversification. Shifting investments from gold and silver ETFs towards equity funds is advised. The portfolio requires adjustments to achieve long-term financial objectives.

The Economic Times 9 Jul 2026 10:21 am

Why Gen Z borrows for experiences and keeps investments intact

With higher financial literacy, younger borrowers are leveraging personal loans to fund lifestyle choices, experiences, travel and discretionary spending, all while keeping their investment portfolios intact.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 10:04 am

Best tax saving mutual funds or ELSS to invest in July 2026

Taxpayers often invest in ELSS funds for Section 80C deductions. These funds offer potential for higher returns over the long term. ELSS schemes have a three-year lock-in period, shorter than other options. Investors should consider ELSS for long-term equity exposure and potential growth. Several ELSS funds are recommended for investment consideration.

The Economic Times 9 Jul 2026 9:36 am

Gold, silver prices today, 9 July: Check retail rates of 24K, 22K gold, 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata

Gold and silver prices today, 9 July: 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.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 9:24 am

What Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund bought and sold in June 2026: Top 10 holdings revealed

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund is India's largest open-ended equity scheme with an AUM of 1.43 lakh crore. The fund increased its exposure to HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and ITC in June, while trimming its holdings in Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon and Meta Platforms. 

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 9:14 am

July 2026 DA hike: 3% increase most likely as June inflation data guides decision, says expert

3% Dearness Allowance hike for Central government staff and pensioners is a possibility in July 2026. The final DA revision hinges on June AICPI-IW inflation data, with the government's announcement expected after Cabinet approval and inflation review.

Livemint 9 Jul 2026 7:20 am

UPI and personal loans are replacing credit cards in Indians' wallets: CIBIL

Credit card penetration in India remains low, with only 5.2 crore holders, representing 25% of the credit-active population. While usage is rising, first-time borrowers account for just 8% of new credit card issuances

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 10:53 pm

PPF account turns dormant if you invest less than 500 a year: What you lose and how to revive it

PPF accounts become inactive if the annual 500 minimum deposit is missed, restricting benefits. Activation requires a request and payment of a penalty. Full details here.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 10:51 pm

Sebi reintroduces open-market share buybacks: How your gains will be taxed and what to consider before participating

Sebi has notified rules for open-market share buybacks effective August 1, 2026, allowing companies to repurchase shares through stock exchanges. Here's how your capital gains will be taxed and what to consider before selling your shares via the open market.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 9:20 pm

How many mutual funds should you own? Experts explain the right portfolio mix

Managing too many mutual funds complicates portfolio tracking without enhancing diversification. Experts suggest three to six funds can suffice, emphasising a mix of large, mid, and small-cap funds along with debt for balance. 

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 9:18 pm

As the Magnificent 7 lose swagger, which stock should you buy now? Experts reveal the right strategy

The Magnificent Seven tech giants are losing investor interest as their performance lags behind the Nasdaq 100 and S&P 500. Emerging chipmakers like Micron Technology are gaining traction, while stocks like Alphabet show potential amidst differing fortunes among the group.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 8:00 pm

Quant Mid Cap Fund beats benchmark in short term after years of lag: Expert explains what investors should do

Quant Mid Cap Fund has outperformed its benchmark index over the last 3 and 6 months, but continues to lag over the 1-, 3-, and 5-year periods. The expert attributed the rebound to portfolio repositioning and advised investors to focus on long-term consistency. 

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 7:49 pm

ITR filing 2026: Preventive health checkups can help you save tax here's how

The ITR filing deadline is approaching, prompting taxpayers to prepare documents and explore deductions. Section 80D allows deductions for preventive health checkups, capped at 5,000, applicable only in the old tax regime.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 7:25 pm

Can tenants continue paying old rent if they overstay after lease expires? Delhi HC answers

The Delhi HC ruled that tenants staying in a property after lease expiration may face higher rent due to automatic escalation clauses. Here's all you need to know.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 5:21 pm

How much should you invest in mutual funds? Experts say theres no magic number

A 20-30% investment target can be a useful starting point, but the right SIP depends on your goals, emergency savings and ability to increase investments as income grows.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 5:13 pm

EPFO starts crediting interest for FY26: When will it reflect? How to check in EPFO portal and other platforms

EPFO will credit FY26 interest at 8.25% to 34 crore member accounts by July 15. Members can check the updated amounts online through various methods, including the EPFO Portal, UMANG app, missed calls, SMS, and DigiLocker after activating their UAN.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 4:51 pm

Earning 30 lakh? The wrong tax regime could cost you over 1 lakh

A 30 lakh salary puts taxpayers in a bracket where tax planning matters more than ever. Here's how much tax you pay under the old and new regimes and which one works better. 

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 4:43 pm

Clubbing income: Tax return mistakes that many discover only after receiving a notice

As taxpayers finalize their returns this filing season, it may be worthwhile to spend a few extra minutes reviewing investments in the name of your spouse and minor children

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 4:21 pm

Starting a SIP? Here is why building the right portfolio matters more

SIPs are effective for discipline, but they don't ensure a balanced portfolio. Proper portfolio construction requires mapping goals, managing asset allocation and avoiding excessive risk. Critical review and diversification are essential to protect against poor outcomes and market volatility.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 4:18 pm

HDFC Flexi and Parag Parikh Flexi Cap among top 5 flexicap funds with highest risk-adjusted returns

Sharpe ratio measures risk-adjusted returns by comparing excess returns to risk. Here are the five flexicap mutual funds with the highest Sharpe ratios and their three-year performance.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 4:13 pm

Investing through SIP? These 5 equity mutual funds deliver over 20% return in 10 years

Five equity mutual funds delivered over 20% annualised SIP returns in 10 years, led by Quant Small Cap. Investors should prioritise risk profile, goals, and investment horizon over past performance.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 4:09 pm

PGIM India Mutual Fund announces temporary suspension of fresh subscription in its 3 international funds

PGIM India Mutual Fund has temporarily suspended subscriptions in three international fund of funds from July 9, citing overseas investment limits. Fresh SIP registrations will not be accepted after the cut-off time on July 8, while existing SIP and STP instalments will continue without interruption.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 3:59 pm

KFintechs Finex accelerates same-day physical SIPs to redefine wealth creation

KFintech's Finex program significantly reduces mutual fund SIP processing times. Physical SIP registrations now achieve same-day activation, a major improvement. This transformation leverages AI and automation for efficient data handling.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 3:54 pm

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap increased stake in ITC, TCS, HCL Technologies, and 14 other stocks in June

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund increased its holdings in ITC, TCS, HCL Technologies and 14 other stocks in June, while trimming exposure to Dr Reddys Laboratories and Maruti Suzuki India. The fund also added Petronet LNG as a new portfolio entrant and made no complete exits during the month.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 3:51 pm

EPF Scheme 2026: Who can withdraw their entire EPF corpus? Check all 7 cases

The EPF Scheme, 2026 allows members to withdraw their entire provident fund balance only under specified circumstances. Here's a detailed guide to the seven eligible situations and the key changes from the earlier rules.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 3:24 pm

EPF Scheme 2026: Can employers cap EPF contribution at 1,800? Here's what the law says

Labour Law Reporter emphasizes that while 1,800 is the default PF contribution, employers must have legal grounds to reduce contributions beyond this amount. Employee protections against wage reductions remain vital under the Social Security Code.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 3:04 pm

What is a soft credit inquiry? Meaning, benefits and why it does not affect your credit score | Explained

A soft credit inquiry allows individuals and financial institutions to review credit information without affecting credit scores. Here's how soft checks work, their impact, and how they differ from hard inquiries.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 2:49 pm

Income Tax Department releases Excel utility for ITR-5 for FY 2025-26. What is it for and other details

The Income Tax (I-T) department has released an Excel utility for ITR-5, enabling taxpayers to file their return for the assessment year 2026-27. 

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 1:52 pm

Foreign assets, bank account or overseas income? Why resident taxpayers must file ITR-2 before the 31 July deadline

Residents with foreign assets or overseas income must file ITR-2 instead of ITR-1 before 31 July. Check who needs to file, mandatory disclosure schedules, penalties for non-compliance and steps to ensure accurate tax filing and avoid legal issues.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 1:39 pm

Ethanol mutual funds: Experts suggest how investors can explore this new theme and key risks to watch

Experts say there are no pure-play ethanol mutual funds, but investors can gain exposure through select index, thematic and sectoral funds. Given the cyclical, regulatory and adoption risks, they suggest diversified funds rather than concentrated stock bets.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 12:59 pm

60 lakh salary: Here is how to calculate final tax liability after surcharge under new tax regime

A 60 lakh salary attracts a surcharge of 10% under the new tax regime in addition to slab-wise income tax and 4% health and education cess. In this case, the final tax liability comes to 15.53 lakh, resulting in an effective tax rate of 25.88%.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 12:13 pm

Moved back to India? This buffer can help you with tax planning

During the RNOR window, your Indian income is taxed exactly as it would be for any resident. Any income earned in India is taxable and must be declared in the ITR

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 11:59 am

EPS pension 2026: How much monthly pension can you get after 10 years of service?

The EPS Pension 2026 replaces previous schemes and retains the core pension formula. Employees who need a monthly pension must have 10 years of service and retire at 58. The estimated monthly pension after 10 years is 2,143, with a minimum pension floor of 1,000.

Livemint 8 Jul 2026 11:40 am

Smallcap funds deliver 22% average return in 3 months. Is it time to invest, hold or rebalance?

Small cap mutual funds delivered an average return of 21.89% over the past three months, sparking debate on whether investors should continue SIPs, invest afresh or rebalance portfolios. Experts advise sticking to long-term asset allocation, preferring staggered investments through SIPs or STPs, while cautioning that elevated valuations warrant selective exposure.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 10:48 am

Who should consider investing in income plus arbitrage FoFs?

Investors with a 24-30 month horizon are choosing income plus arbitrage funds. These funds combine debt and arbitrage schemes for stability and tax efficiency. The category manages over twenty-three thousand crore rupees across twenty-two schemes. This investment strategy offers tax benefits compared to fixed deposits and debt funds. Wealthy investors are increasingly allocating capital to these tax-efficient mutual fund options.

The Economic Times 8 Jul 2026 6:31 am

ITR filings move at a slow pace as deadline nears: Expert explains why an extension beyond 31 July is unlikely this year

With the July 31 deadline approaching, only a small percentage of taxpayers have filed their returns. Cleartax CEO Archit Gupta warns against assuming an extension this year, as slower filing rates could lead to increased pressure before the due date.

Livemint 7 Jul 2026 11:16 pm

Income-Tax Returns: What is authorised representative? Check full list of circumstances, services, eligibility here

Income-tax returns: Today we explain the circumstances under which taxpayers can appoint authorised representative, the requirements, eligibility criteria and other important factors.

Livemint 7 Jul 2026 10:55 pm

ITR 2026: Senior citizens can claim 50,000 deduction even without health insurance Here's how

The income tax return filing deadline is approaching, prompting taxpayers to gather documents. Section 80D allows senior citizens without health insurance to claim up to 50,000 for medical expenses, available only under the old tax regime.

Livemint 7 Jul 2026 10:15 pm

Bought US startup shares using overseas savings? Here's how India will tax it

A returning NRI who invested overseas savings in a US startup may not face tax on the purchase itself, but discounted acquisitions and annual foreign asset disclosures can trigger tax and compliance obligations.

Livemint 7 Jul 2026 9:37 pm

EPFO: Taxation rule on Voluntary Provident Fund the 2.5 lakh VPF threshold, explained

VPF allows employees to contribute more than the mandatory EPF rate for a larger retirement corpus. Contributions over 2.5 lakh face taxation on excess interest. VPF matches EPF's interest rate and qualifies for tax deductions under Section 80C, with specific withdrawal conditions.

Livemint 7 Jul 2026 7:47 pm

17L tax refund denied after taxpayer missed ITR e-verification while caring for ill father: Here's what ITAT ruled

A Delhi taxpayer was denied a 17 lakh tax refund due to late e-verification of his ITR while caring for his ill father. ITAT ruled that denying the refund on technical grounds violates Article 265 of the Constitution, leading to a ruling in his favor.

Livemint 7 Jul 2026 7:01 pm