37 C 
Missed life insurance premium payments? Know when your policy may lapse and revival rules
Life insurance provides financial protection for policyholders' families upon their death. Premiums can be paid regularly or as a lump sum. Here's when your policy lapses and ways to revive it among other details.
8th Pay Commission: Key Lucknow meetings begin on 22 June all you need to know
8th Pay Commission Update: The commission's Lucknow visit is scheduled for 2223 June and appointment requests have to be submitted before 10 June. Check out the latest developments and how the fitment factor has risen from 1.86 to 2.57.
Income tax returns 2026-27: Should pensioners file ITR? Tax rules, forms and deductions explained
Many retirees may believe that ITR filing is optional. Pension income is taxable, requiring ITR submission based on total income. ax rules, forms and deductions explained here.
How multiple credit card applications impact your CIBIL score and approval chances explained
Requesting an additional credit card requires strategic planning to enhance approval chances and protect financial health. Frequent applications can negatively impact credit scores, so stagger requests to minimise adverse effects while considering your credit history.
Smart financial planning tips for parents: SIPs, insurance, savings & child investment plans
Financial planning for children includes SIP investments, term insurance, health cover, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, emergency savings and legal protection to secure a prosperous future for every family across the country.
EPFO to allow PF withdrawal via UPI soon: Heres how instant EPF withdrawals will work
EPFO will soon enable members to withdraw Provident Fund money via UPI, according to Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Heres how instant EPF withdrawals will work.
Credit card EMI vs minimum due: Which option is better for your credit score?
Credit card EMI conversion lets you pay off large transactions in smaller, fixed monthly instalments with interest. Here's how it is different from paying the minimum due and which option is better for your credit score.
How long will it take to build Rs 2 crore with a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP?
Equity, debt or gold? This portfolio mix delivered the best risk-adjusted returns
Asset allocation is crucial for long-term wealth creation. A balanced portfolio of equities, debt, and gold offers stability and higher returns, as shown in FundsIndia's report. Diversification reduces volatility and downside risk, ensuring a smoother investment journey over time.
A seven-day Sweden trip sounds romantic on paper, but when flights, visas, hostels and daily costs are added up, is Sweden actually realistic for a middle-class Indian traveller on a 1.5 lakh budget? We asked ChatGPT for a brutally honest financial and logistical breakdown.
Struggling with retirement calculations? These 4 rules can help you estimate the future corpus
Compounding and discounting are key personal finance concepts that help investors understand wealth creation and the present value of future money. The article explains the Rules of 72, 114, 144 and 70, highlighting how investments grow over time, how inflation erodes purchasing power, and why time value plays a critical role in financial planning.
India-focused offshore equity funds and ETFs struggle in 1 year. Check bottom 5 performers
India-focused offshore funds and ETFs underperformed the MSCI India USD Index over the past year, with mid and smallcap exposure dragging returns lower. Several funds posted losses exceeding 20% amid market volatility.
PPF investment with disciplined annual contributions and long-term compounding can help investors build a 1 crore corpus and generate more than 50,000 stable monthly income through guaranteed interest returns, all one needs is proper planning and patience.
West Bengal's Annapurna Yojana will replace the Lakshmir Bhandar program, offering 3,000 monthly assistance to eligible women from June 1.
Time to buy rupee assets? DSP Mutual Fund lists 5 reasons favouring Indian equities and bonds
DSP Mutual Fund has urged investors to allocate towards rupee-denominated assets despite concerns over crude oil prices, currency weakness and foreign outflows. The fund house cited undervalued REER levels, narrowing India-US inflation differentials, resilient external sector buffers, attractive largecap valuations and cyclical forex trends as key reasons favouring Indian equities and bonds.
How long do you need to stay invested to avoid negative returns? This data has an answer
FundsIndia's report highlights that long-term equity investment, defined as 7 years or more, is essential for wealth creation. Historically, equities have shown strong recovery after market downturns, with significant returns over extended periods compared to real estate and debt instruments.
Got a bonus to invest? Gold at record highs and markets choppy, this 50:50 formula may work better
Investors are facing challenges in volatile markets, with traditional options like fixed deposits yielding 6-7.5%. Experts recommend a disciplined investment approach, splitting funds between Arbitrage Funds and Nifty 50 Index Funds for long-term growth.
Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund suspends subscription of units in its retirement fund
Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund has suspended fresh investments in Franklin India Retirement Fund from May 20, following Sebis move to discontinue solution-oriented mutual fund schemes. The temporary halt covers lump sum investments, SIPs, STPs and switches, while the industry transitions towards new life cycle fund structures with dynamic asset allocation strategies.
Should retirees in India use credit cards? Key benefits and risks explained
Credit cards for retirees offer secure cashless payments, rewards, emergency liquidity and credit score benefits, but disciplined usage is essential to avoid debt, fraud risks and financial strain. Proper professional guidance must be taken before deciding on any particular credit card.
An ideal annual travel budget for someone earning 15 lakh, with monthly EMIs of 20,000 and fixed expenses of 30,000, ranges from 1.2 lakh to 2.5 lakh, allowing for meaningful travel without compromising financial goals.
A stable income allows flexibility in emergency fund duration. A 9-12 month runway is advisable in tech for financial security. For a 30 lakh earner with 90,000 monthly expenses, a six-month fund of 5.5-6 lakh is baseline, while 11-12 lakh is ideal for a year.
Amid global uncertainty, Sundaram Mutual Fund's Anand Radhakrishnan advises investors to stay disciplined. First-time investors should begin with balanced funds and short-duration debt. Gradually increase equity exposure and rebalance portfolios periodically. Avoid emotional decisions and maintain diversification across asset classes and geographies. Crude oil prices are a key variable to watch over the next six to twelve months.
8th Pay Commission: How to use fitment factor calculator to estimate your revised salary
Discussions on the 8th Pay Commission focus on the fitment factor, crucial for salary and pension hikes for central government employees.
Best corporate bond mutual funds to invest in May 2026
Investors can consider corporate bond funds for near-term and three-year goals. These funds invest in high-rated company papers, offering relative safety. Safety and interest rates are key factors. HDFC Corporate Bond Fund, Aditya Birla Sun Life Corporate Bond Fund, ICICI Prudential Corporate Bond Fund, and Sundaram Corporate Bond Fund are recommended for May 2026. Continue existing investments in these schemes.
Why Invesco MF's Vikas Garg sees a tactical opportunity in long-duration debt funds
After a sharp rise in bond yields driven by oil prices, fiscal worries and possibility of US Fed hike, Invesco MFs Vikas Garg says long-duration debt funds may still offer a tactical opportunity.
Multi-asset funds reward tactical bets amid volatile market
Multi-asset allocation funds, once seen as a guaranteed win, showed a wide performance range last year, from 3.3% to 24.6%. Investors flocked to these funds as volatile markets made asset allocation challenging, with top performers favoring gold and silver. Future success will depend on fund managers' tactical asset allocation and selective equity positioning.
The PFRDA is assessing the demand to increase the monthly pension cap under the APY from 5,000, according to PFRDA Chairman S Ramann. The subscriber base is projected to exceed 10 crore in FY27, showing an 18% growth.
Overdraft vs Personal Loan: What is the difference and how to choose the right one for you?
An overdraft is a credit facility generally offered by banks and financial institutions, primarily to business owners to manage short-term financial requirements related to their operations.
Income-tax return forms released: Here's all you need to know about ITR-1 Sahaj Top FAQs answered
The Income-Tax department has released ITR forms for AY27/FY26, enabling offline preparation via Excel Utility for ITR-1 and ITR-4. Taxpayers can file returns online through the official portal, with a deadline for individual filings set for 31 July 2026.
What happens when you close your loan early? All you need to know about prepayment charges
Repaying a loan ahead of schedule can help reduce the total interest payable and shorten the duration of your debt.
75.5% of Indians lack a retirement plan, while 77% avoid financial advice: 1 Finance survey
A growing retirement planning gap in India is raising concern as 75.5% of middle-aged earners lack a detailed plan while 77% have not sought financial advice, reveals a 1 Finance survey.
Hindu Undivided Family: Who is eligible to form HUF and how much tax can be saved?
HUF is treated as a separate taxable entity from its family members. Family income can be legally divided and reported under the HUF to avail additional tax advantages
8th Pay Commission fitment factor discussions are reshaping salary expectations as Indias pay commission history highlights major changes in government pay, pensions and employee benefits over decades.
Fixed Deposits: Can you save tax on FD interest? Key rules every depositor should know
Interest earned on fixed deposits is treated as Income from Other Sources under income tax rules. It gets added to your total annual income and taxed according to the income tax slab applicable to you.
DA demands: Here's what the big three employee groups NC-JCM, AIDEF and Maharashtra Old Pension Organisation are demanding for Dearness Allowance. From inflation-linked compensation, 4% hike, merger and more, here's all we know
Dearness Allowance: Uttar Pradesh announces 2% hike in DA for state government employees
Dearness Allowance: Uttar Pradesh today announced a 2% hike in DA for state government employees, effectively increasing the component to 60% of basic pay from 58%.
Top 5 India-focused offshore equity funds and ETFs with highest 1-year returns. Check details
India-focused offshore funds and ETFs underperformed the MSCI India USD Index over one year, though Aryabhata India Fund emerged as the top performer with the smallest decline among peers.
As job insecurity rises globally, building an emergency fund is essential for financial stability amid layoffs, inflation and AI-driven restructuring, ensuring protection through disciplined saving strategies.
Indian mutual fund assets under management have surged. Equity funds saw a significant rise in assets and investor numbers. Flexicap funds led net sales, attracting substantial inflows. SIP flows doubled in under three years, reaching new highs. The industry's AUM grew substantially over the past decade, indicating strong investor confidence and growing participation in mutual funds.
Does your portfolio needs a global hedge in a weaponised world?
Geopolitical shifts are prompting Indian investors to reconsider strategies as economic equities become tools of statecraft. Experts emphasise the need for global diversification to mitigate local volatility and capture international growth amidst changing dynamics.
Newly married couples can build stronger personal finances with smart budgeting, emergency savings, early investing and insurance planning for long-term financial stability and wealth creation.
Secured credit cards: Unlocking credit and building a credit score for millions
If you are struggling to get a credit card due to income or age restrictions, there is a way out. Secured credit cards, which are backed by fixed deposits, offer underserved populations a pathway to financial inclusion.
Wholesale inflation hits a 42-month high but does it really spell bad news for your wallet?
India's wholesale inflation hit 8.3% in April, a 42-month high, mainly due to rising energy prices from the West Asia conflict. Experts note a weak correlation with consumer prices, suggesting retail inflation may not rise significantly despite the wholesale increase.
Gold turned 1 lakh into 15 lakhs in 20 years - Here's how equities, real estate and debt compare
Equities in India and the US have outperformed fixed deposits, debt, and real estate over the long term. Mid-cap and small-cap stocks yielded the highest returns, emphasizing the importance of long-term investment.
These 5 smallcap mutual funds deliver over 20% annualised return in 3 years. Check toppers
The ET Alpha Summit gathers top market minds to decode global risks, AI disruption, and investment opportunities, offering investors a clear roadmap for smarter, future-ready wealth decisions.
Taiwan-focused mutual funds soar 200% in a year. Experts warn against FOMO investing
Mutual fund investors are exploring international and thematic schemes, with some delivering up to 200% returns. Technology and semiconductor funds, especially those with Taiwan exposure, have seen significant gains. Experts suggest starting global diversification with broader US funds. While past performance is strong, future returns may vary.
Mutual fund factsheets are no longer compliance documents theyre becoming investor playbooks
As more investors go direct and digital, mutual fund factsheets are evolving from compliance-heavy disclosures into sharper communication tools aimed at helping investors make decisions.
Large cap funds have lagged mid and small caps across various time horizons, showing muted or negative returns in shorter periods. Experts suggest increasing allocation to large caps for stability and better risk-reward due to attractive valuations, especially for first-time investors and through SIPs.
The EPFO's UPI payment gateway for provident fund withdrawals is set to launch soon, with testing completed. Members can access their funds directly in bank accounts, improving service delivery for over seven crore users.
Gold and silver prices fell on Thursday amid weak global cues, US Fed tightening fears and easing oil prices. MCX gold futures slipped 0.21%, while silver declined 0.40%. Check the latest 22K, 24K gold and silver rates in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.
Your employer may soon pay your SIP from salary: Sebi's new mutual fund proposal explained
Your employer might soon invest in mutual funds directly from your salary. Sebi is considering a new proposal to allow this. Employees can choose their funds, and employers will deduct the amount from salaries. This aims to simplify investing and increase participation. Redemption proceeds will still go to the employee's account.
Best banking & PSU mutual funds to invest in May 2026
Banking & PSU debt funds offer a relatively safe investment option for a few years, investing primarily in government-backed entities. These schemes gained popularity after past debt market turmoil. While risks like private bank exposure and interest rate changes exist, they are considered minimal for short-term investors.
SpaceX plans to go public, targeting a $75 billion IPO and a valuation of $1.75 trillion. Elon Musk will maintain significant control post-IPO, raising concerns over corporate governance and valuation risks. The filing reveals $18.7 billion revenue in 2025, driven mainly by Starlink's growth.
Recent inflation data suggests a potential increase in Social Security COLA for 2027, with estimates rising to 4.2%. The Senior Citizens League also adjusted its projection to 3.9%. Inflation has significantly impacted living costs, affecting the purchasing power of benefits since 2016.
Jeff Bezos pitches major US tax overhaul: Bottom half should pay 0%, not 3%
Jeff Bezos proposed eliminating federal income taxes for the bottom half of earners, advocating for significant tax reform without detailing implementation. He highlighted the burden on lower earners and noted the disparities in income and tax contributions between different income groups.
Sebi moots MF payment by 3rd parties in select cases
Sebi is proposing new rules for mutual fund investments. Third parties can now make payments in certain situations. Employers can invest on behalf of employees through salary deductions. Asset Management Companies can pay distributors in mutual fund units instead of cash. A framework for investors to donate to social causes is also suggested.
Long-term SIPs deliver consistent gains as market volatility eases over time
Investing in equity through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) offers greater predictability and reduced risk over extended periods. A study reveals that longer tenures, ideally 10 years or more, allow investors to navigate market cycles and benefit from rupee cost averaging.
I gave 50,000 to ChatGPT and asked AI to plan my solo international trip. In return, it gave me a detailed travel plan.
EPFO: We take a look at if EPF amounts be attached for liabilities and what happens if your employer recovers contribution but doesnt deposit it, among other top FAQs. Here's a look
Co-applicant home loan rules: How joint loans affect EMI, tax benefit and credit score
One effective way to improve your home loan eligibility is to add a co-applicant with an independent source of income.
ITR forms for FY26 / AY27 have been notified by the tax department, and Excel Utility for the ITR-1 and ITR-4 forms has also been enabled by the I-T department. Here's how you can use e-pay to clear income tax dues
Debt Snowball vs Debt Avalanche: Which method clears loans faster?
There is no universally superior choice here, as every individuals financial landscape is unique. While the avalanche path optimises your total savings, tackling a massive principal balance first can feel slow, sometimes draining your motivation.
How much money should you keep in a savings account and where to park the rest?
The 50/30/20 rule is a widely used budgeting strategy that divides your monthly post-tax income into three main categories: needs, wants, and savings.
The RBI has proposed stricter loan recovery rules, including mandatory certification for recovery agents, safeguards against harassment, grievance redressal mechanisms, and compensation for wrongful recovery actions. Lenders also cannot block mobile phones over unpaid loans.
SEBI proposes EPF-style investing in mutual funds Here's all you need to know
Sebi proposed allowing third-party payments in mutual funds for specific scenarios, with aim to ease investing while protecting against misuse, and includes provisions for social cause contributions. Here's what could change for investors
How to create a family budget that works: Here is a step-by-step guide
Analysing your spending patterns can feel stressful and may reveal some uncomfortable habits. Pause if necessary, but remain committed to uncovering the true reality of your financial situation.
The 8th central pay commission has invited applications from eligible candidates to fill vacancies for full-time and part-time consultant roles on a contractual basis for fixed one-year in the commission.
Sebi proposes to permit third-party payment in mutual funds in certain scenarios
The current regulatory framework mandates that all payments for investments in mutual funds must originate directly from the investor's own bank account and be routed exclusively through RBI-authorised payment aggregators or Sebi-recognised clearing corporations.
EPFO: Is 24x7 support available for members? Can they contact via WhatsApp?
EPFO has chosen WhatsApp to enhance member services, leveraging its extensive user base in India. This initiative aims to streamline grievance resolution, reduce legal backlogs and facilitate real-time communication for services such as PF balance checks and claim tracking.
Dearness Allowance: The Maharashtra state government has approved payment of DA arrears for state employees under the 5th, 6th and 7th central pay commission. The total payout is 800 crore.
EPFO subscribers will soon withdraw provident funds via UPI, with direct transfers to bank accounts. The initiative aims to streamline service delivery and enhance member access to funds, facilitating quicker transactions for various needs.
Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund removes subscription limit and resumes fresh SIP/STP in its Aqua FoF
Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund has removed the Rs 5 lakh daily cap on lump sum investments and resumed fresh SIP/STP registrations in its Baroda BNP Paribas Aqua Fund of Fund from May 20. The move comes as overseas investment headroom improves, though subscriptions will remain subject to regulatory overseas investment limits.
NFO Update: Tata AIA Life Insurance launches dividend leaders index pension fund
Tata AIA Life Insurance has launched the Tata AIA Dividend Leaders Index Pension Fund to help investors build long-term retirement wealth through Indias leading dividend-paying companies. The NFO is open until May 27, with units priced at Rs 10. The passively managed fund tracks the BSE 500 Dividend Leaders 50 Index and invests in 50 consistent dividend-paying firms, combining market-linked growth with life insurance protection for disciplined retirement planning.
SIFs at seven months: baby steps now, broader risk canvas ahead
Launched as a bridge between mutual funds and PMS, specialized investment funds have seen rapid AUM growth in seven months. The next phase may demand broader risk-taking and new categories.
Twelve equity mutual funds delivered over 10% returns in the past year, led by TRUSTMF Small Cap Fund with 19.24%. Midcap schemes from ICICI Prudential, HSBC and Mirae Asset also featured among the top performers. Overall, 284 schemes were analysed, with returns ranging from 11.51% to 9.86%.
NFO Alert: The Wealth Company Mutual Fund launches large & midcap fund
The Wealth Company Mutual Fund, backed by Pantomath Group, has launched its 10th fund, The Wealth Company Large & Mid Cap Fund. This open-ended equity scheme, open from May 21 to June 4, aims for long-term capital appreciation by investing in both established large-cap companies and growth-oriented mid-caps, employing a unique research framework.
Looking to invest via SIP for 5 years? Here are the top 10 mutual funds to consider
Top-performing mutual funds delivered strong five-year SIP returns, led by gold, infrastructure, manufacturing, healthcare, and smallcap categories, though investors should prioritize risk appetite, goals, and investment horizon over past performance alone.
Gold and silver import duty hike: here is what it means for prices and ETF premiums
A 9% import duty hike and tighter silver import rules may disrupt local supply and ETF premiums, even as experts remain structurally bullish on gold and silver.
A weaker rupee and tougher job markets are reshaping the economics of foreign education
With the rupee at 96/$ and education loans at 12%, the cost-to-salary math of studying abroad is under stress. Rising fees, tight visas and weak job markets are stretching repayment timelines.
Inside Mutual Fund Portfolios: The role of cash holdings
Fund managers hold cash in equity schemes for various reasons, including market overvaluation, difficulty finding quality stocks, and to meet daily redemption requests. While cash offers a downside buffer, high levels can lead to underperformance if markets rally, potentially causing investor outflows.
Have multiple EPF accounts? Here's how you can merge them Stepwise guide
Employee Provident Fund account: You may have multiple EPF accounts with the retirement body but can request online transfers through the official EPFO portal. Here's a stepwise guide how
Switched to new tax regime? Deductions and exemptions you can no longer claim
The new income tax regime offers lower rates but eliminates many deductions. Taxpayers can choose between old and new regimes, with the old providing more tax benefits. Details here.
The Income-Tax Department has released ITR 1-7 forms for FY26/AY27, including Excel utilities for forms 1 and 4 for offline preparation. Here's why experts advise salaried taxpayers to wait till June 15 to file their income tax returns
EPFO set to introduce WhatsApp support for provident fund members amid growing grievances: Report
The EPFO plans to launch a WhatsApp chatbot for user queries and account requests, enhancing outreach and member services. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced this initiative to streamline communication.
What is the new West Bengal government's Annapurna scheme? We explain who the beneficiaries are, how much monthly financial support they can expect, how to apply, check eligibility and all you need to know.
Karnataka bus workers' strike: What are their demands? Salary hike, arrears, DA increase, explained
Karnataka bus workers' unions have called for a strike tomorrow, on 20 May. Here's a look at what their demands are From salary hike, arrears, and dearness allowance (DA) increase.
The government has extended the free online Aadhaar document update service until June 14, 2027, allowing users to upload and verify identity documents without fees. Details here.
What is a will in India? Legal definition, importance and eligibility under Succession Act 1925
A guide to what a will is in India, explaining the legal meaning under the Indian Succession Act 1925, eligibility, key rules, and the importance of writing a valid will.
Women investors drive 35% of mutual fund inflows in FY26 with 11 trillion AUM, says CAMS report
Women investors manage 11.3 trillion in AUM across mutual funds. This accounts for 35% of total inflows, indicating a shift towards long-term investing and diversified strategies in India's mutual fund industry. Details are here.
8th central pay commission: What are the pension reform demands by the three big employee groups?
8th Central Pay Commission: Here are the pension reform-related demands made by big employee groups the NC-JCM, the AIDEF and the Maharashtra Old Pension Organisation to the 8th CPC in their memorandums.
