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Can occasional smoking raise your health insurance premium? Here's what experts say
Someone who smokes just a handful of times a year may still reportedly be classified as a smoker and could face premiums that are 30% to 50% higher than those charged to non-smokers.
Two actively managed equity fund categories, each built on a distinct logic of portfolio construction - one defined by breadth, the other by deliberate concentration.
When reinvestment fails: A look at the tax implications of unused Capital Gains Account Scheme funds
Section 54F is a tax-saving provision designed to encourage residential housing investments by exempting LTCG on non-residential assets, capped at a maximum investment threshold of 10 crore.
India has 78,000 crore in unclaimed bank deposits, 14,000 crore in unclaimed insurance funds, and 3,000 crore in unclaimed mutual fund investments. So, let's find out the different types of unclaimed assets and how you can check whether any belong to you, and the steps to claim them.
PPFAS CIO Rajiv Thakkar said successful investing depends more on patience than frequent trading. He advised avoiding unnecessary selling, profit booking and reactionary decisions, while exiting only for capital needs, mistakes, fraud, structural disruption, extreme valuations or better opportunities.
Step-by-step guide to file ITR online: Know the complete process from registration to verification
Filing an ITR involves following a series of steps to ensure all details are reported accurately. The Income Tax Department provides a pre-filled ITR-1 filing service on the e-Filing portal for registered users. This guide covers the step-by-step process of filing the ITR-1 form.
NFO Alert: Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund launches BSE Clean Environment Index Fund
Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund has launched the Motilal Oswal BSE Clean Environment Index Fund, an open-ended scheme tracking India's first diversified clean economy index. The NFO, open from June 5 to June 19, offers passive investment in five transformative themes: Renewables, EVs, Water Treatment, Recycling, and Waste Management, aiming for long-term capital appreciation.
Helios Capital founder Samir Arora believes investor pessimism toward India is driven more by a negative halo effect than weakening fundamentals. Speaking at the ET Alpha Wealth Summit, he argued that concerns around AI, valuations and FII selling are overstated, while Indias long-term earnings and growth story remains intact.
The price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is one of the most common metrics for valuing a stock. By incorporating earnings growth, the PEG ratio provides a more comprehensive view of whether a stock is fairly valued relative to its earnings growth.
FOMO is reshaping investing behaviour. Are Indias financial advisers keeping up?
As traditional wealth management models begin to fray, the industry must pivot toward real-time engagement and behavioural coaching to stay relevant.
ITR deductions reduce your taxable income by subtracting certain expenses from gross income. Today we take a look at the various medical and healthcare related deductions available under the old tax regime
Indias wealth boom has a problem: 84.8% of households do not have a will, study finds
1 Finance Magazine has found that 84.8% of Indians have no will, and 62.5% have no plans to make one, highlighting weak estate planning, limited financial awareness, and rising inheritance disputes amid growing intergenerational wealth transfers.
He believes a combination of free trade agreements (FTAs), a weakening rupee, and shifting global supply chains could create a massive opportunity for Indian exporters over the coming decade.
Employees Provident Fund: Who is eligible and non-eligible to be nominee?
The EPFO manages employees' provident fund and pension schemes in India. Members must add nominess for both with rules differing based on marital status. E-nomination process available for Aadhaar-verified UAN holders.
DSP Mutual Fund CEO Kalpen Parekh advised investors to seek future alpha in out-of-favour areas, not recent winners. He emphasized that market leadership rotates and diversification across asset classes can reduce volatility without sacrificing long-term returns, urging a focus on neglected opportunities.
ITR filing AY 2026-27: Essential documents you should keep ready for hassle-free return filing
With the ITR filing season for AY 2026-27 in full swing, it is important to gather all the necessary documents before filing your return. Some of the key documents include PAN, Form 16, bank statements, capital gains statements, and investment proofs required for claiming deductions.
How digital lending platforms can scale faster without increasing risk
Digital lending platforms revolutionize borrowing by offering small loans at the click of a button. The digital infrastructure, powered by Aadhaar, Account Aggregator framework, and data processing, enhances financial inclusion.
8th Pay Commission: The Indian Railways Technical Supervisors Association (IRTSA) has demanded an increase in minimum pay to 52,600, a fitment factor of up to 3.80, better allowances and more. Check details here.
Status games: why many high-earning Indians fail to become wealthy
Behind luxury cars and premium homes, social proof, choice paralysis and high taxes are draining the savings of India's top earners. The fix? Stop trying to keep up with the Joneses, cut out complex products, and automate simple investments.
8 smallcap funds struggled with consistency in the last 5 years. Do you own any?
Eight smallcap mutual funds showed low five-year performance consistency, according to CRISP Scorecard, with varied risk profiles, investment styles, and moderate returns across LIC MF, ICICI Prudential, SBI, and Kotak funds.
How to open fixed deposit online in minutes: Interest rates, benefits and 5 easy steps
Secure returns with a fixed deposit and grow your savings with ease in the current geopolitical environment where protecting wealth is something indispensable. This guide explains how to open an FD online, compare interest rates, and invest confidently in minutes.
Dearness Allowance FAQs: Is DA part of salary? Is it taxable? Must you report it in ITR?
Dearness Allowance: We answer the top FAQs on DA for taxpayers. Whether the component is credited as part of your salary, is subject to tax, must be reported in your income tax returns filing and more
MF Tracker: Can ICICI Prudential Multicap Fund sustain its strong track record in a volatile market?
ICICI Prudential Multicap Fund has demonstrated a decade of positive calendar year returns, with 2021 and 2023 yielding the highest gains. The fund's consistent performance is attributed to its disciplined multicap structure and strategic sector allocation, as highlighted by fund managers and financial experts.
The most common ITR filing mistakes people make in 2026 number 6 can delay your refund
Income-tax returns: Here are the most common mistakes taxpayers can make when filing their ITR in 2026. Here's the seven important checks highlighted, including some that could delay your refund process.
Gold and silver prices today, 4 June: Gold gains on MCX amid a weaker dollar and geopolitical tensions. Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Best mid cap mutual funds to invest in June 2026
Mid cap mutual funds have seen a strong rally, leading to investor anxiety about current valuations. While these funds offer potential for high returns, they also carry significant risk due to volatility and corporate governance concerns.
US news: Americans may see their social security payments reduced by $500 per month over the next six years, by 2032, amid changes to the benefits program. Here's what we know
Why retirement planning today must account for longevity, inflation and income security
A new approach to retirement planning is essential as longer lifespans, inflation and rising healthcare costs reshape financial goals, making income security and long-term financial independence more important than ever.
8th Pay Commission: Can India afford a 3.5 fitment factor? Salary hike, fiscal impact explained
8th Pay Commission fitment factor discussions intensify as unions demand a revision of up to 4x in basic salaries, given current inflation, the once-a-decade revision and associated challenges. Here is what the impact of a 3.5 fitment factor will be on salaries, pensions and government finances.
Manufacturing sector emerges as key structural play amid global supply chain shift
Investors can explore manufacturing mutual funds for portfolio diversification. The sector shows strong potential driven by domestic demand and global supply chain realignments. Experts suggest a staggered investment approach over six months. The Nifty Manufacturing Index offers distinct exposure compared to the Nifty 50. This theme is poised for growth, supported by policy and evolving global needs.
Maximising emergency funds: Is a sweep-in fixed deposit your best bet?
Before shifting your emergency safety net into a sweep-in FD, it is smart to weigh a few operational details, including premature withdrawal policies, minimum balance rules, interest rate gaps, and tax rules.
Abu Dhabi rent hike halt sends relief to residents, Indian expats amid US-Iran war; experts weigh in
Abu Dhabi halts rent hikes temporarily, maintaining current rental amounts in contracts. It provides financial predictability for households and businesses, benefiting expatriates. The decision aligns with broader relief measures introduced post US-Iran war, enhancing household budgeting.
Can non-salaried persons claim house rent allowance? HRA rules explained
An individual can claim a tax deduction under Section 80GG of the Income Tax Act 1961 or under Section 134 of the Income Tax Act 2025.
5 smallcap funds crossed the 25% annualised return mark in 3 years. Here's the list
Several smallcap funds have demonstrated strong performance, with five achieving over 25% annualized returns in the past three years. Bandhan Small Cap led the pack with a 29.4% return. In contrast, five other prominent small-cap funds experienced slower growth, delivering single-digit gains.
New fund offers: 4 mutual funds and 1 SIF are open for subscription. Check details
Four mutual fund NFOs and one SIF are currently open for subscription, offering exposure to smallcap, large & midcap, and factor-based strategies. Investors should align selections with goals and risk appetite.
Getting married? Fix these 5 financial red flags before they ruin your future together
Money matters more than many couples realise. These financial red flags, from hidden debt to poor savings habits, can affect long-term financial stability and relationship success. A couple should consult certified financial experts together to resolve any financial challenges.
Employees Provident Fund Organisation: Want to add a nominee to your employees' provident fund account? Here's how subscribers can do so, and your top nomination process related FAQs answered by the EPFO.
Franklin India Dividend Yield Fund delivered exceptional returns. A Rs 10,000 monthly investment since inception grew to over Rs 1.2 crore in 20 years. The fund's AUM also crossed Rs 2,300 crore. It follows a dividend yield strategy, investing in companies with consistent payouts. This approach aims for steady compounding and downside protection.
Every mutual fund offers positive XIRR on SIP investments in 5 years. Did you exit too soon?
Equity mutual funds delivered positive returns on Systematic Investment Plans over the past five years. Many funds provided double-digit XIRR. HSBC Midcap Fund and Bandhan Small Cap Fund led with over 20% XIRR. This analysis highlights strong SIP performance across various fund categories. Investors saw significant growth on their regular investments.
Looking for consistent midcap funds? Edelweiss Mid Cap and 8 peers have stood out over 5 years
Nine midcap funds posted strong five-year consistency scores, led by Nippon India and HDFC. The CRISP Scorecard highlights their risk levels, investment styles, returns, and assets under management as of March 2026.
Trading salary for Esops? The four tests that help you do the math
Esops are not lottery tickets. But they become lottery tickets when people stop doing the math.
Take charge of your money today with practical financial stress-management strategies that reduce money anxiety, build savings, and help you create long-term financial stability. Don't hesitate to take professional guidance from a certified financial advisor if financial problems remain.
Small caps are rallying again. Should you get on board or stay away?
Small cap mutual funds are drawing record inflows, driven by attractive valuations and a broader economic recovery. But investors still need a five-to-seven-year horizon and an SIP mindset to beat the volatility.
8th CPC: Check here for the full list of state visits and employee meetings scheduled by the 8th pay commission in Jammu Kashmir, Ladakh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal in June and July 2026.
Annapurna Yojana goes live today: How to check if your 3,000 payment has been credited
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will launch the Annapurna Yojana, providing 3,000 monthly to women beneficiaries. The inauguration is set for 12.30 pm, with 100 beneficiaries per locality receiving sanction letters. The scheme replaces the previous Lakshmir Bhandar initiative.
When a taxpayer dies, filing ITR remains a legal obligation
Under Indian tax law, a person's obligation to file and pay taxes does not end with death. The responsibility passes to their legal representative or legal heirs, and overlooking it can lead to notices, penalties and delays in settling financial affairs.
An investor planning early retirement at 50 with a Rs 12.5 crore corpus seeks expert advice on generating Rs 2 lakh monthly income. The expert outlines a goal-based framework, recommending a balanced 60% equity and 40% debt allocation for retirement and a more growth-oriented mix for long-term wealth creation
Salaried taxpayers in India should thoroughly review their income-tax returns for FY 2025-26 before filing. Important checks include verifying pre-filled data, waiting for AIS updates, and ensuring all necessary deductions are claimed to avoid errors and delays.
How to avoid over-diversification in mutual funds: 5 simple ways
Too many mutual funds can weaken returns. Over-diversification creates portfolio overlap, complexity and confusion. A focused mutual funds strategy with clear asset allocation can improve long-term investment performance. Take proper guidance from a certified financial advisor to manage finances.
Best large cap mutual funds to invest in June 2026
Amidst market volatility, advisors recommend large cap mutual funds for conservative investors seeking safer equity investments. These funds, mandated to invest in top 100 companies, offer inflation-beating returns with lower risk. While some schemes have faced recent underperformance, long-term potential remains, with specific funds highlighted for June 2026.
I asked ChatGPT: Should I pay a CA to file ITR? It explains when expert help makes sense
A discussion on whether salaried employees should file their ITR themselves or hire a Chartered Accountant. While DIY filing is feasible for straightforward cases, professional help can prevent costly errors and uncover tax-saving opportunities, especially when income sources are varied or complex.
Credit card stolen? Here are 5 steps you should take immediately
Act fast when a credit card is stolen. Quick reporting, card blocking, FIR filing and account monitoring can prevent fraud, protect your credit score and reduce financial losses. Don't panic; contact your credit card issuer promptly and follow the steps to resolve the issue.
Dearness Allowance helps mitigate inflation pressures for central government employees and pensioners. The 8th pay commission is reviewing pay structures and its recommendations will impact 50 lakh employees and 65 lakh pensioners in India.
The 8th Central Pay Commission has extended the deadline for submissions to June 15, allowing more time for employee associations and unions to present demands.
Rising geopolitical tensions are reshaping personal finance decisions. Diversified investments, SIPs, emergency funds and disciplined planning can help protect wealth and manage market volatility effectively.
Withdrawing more than 10 lakh from your bank account in a year? Here's what you must know
Bank customers can withdraw over 10 lakh without automatic tax scrutiny, but large transactions must comply with reporting norms to avoid issues with the income tax department. Details here.
Top 5 mid-cap index funds with lowest tracking error and benchmark-like returns
Since mid-cap index funds track a specific index, tracking error is an important factor to consider before investing. Here are the top 5 mid-cap index funds with the lowest tracking error.
Low volatility, better value: Why balanced advantage funds are back on investors radar
Wealth managers are favoring balanced advantage funds due to attractive large-cap stock valuations and high bond yields. These funds dynamically adjust equity and debt allocations, offering moderate returns with low volatility, making them suitable for first-time investors seeking stability and better returns than fixed deposits.
Should small finance banks be a part of your FD strategy?
Unlike larger lenders with diversified and sticky deposit franchises, small finance banks rely more heavily on retail deposits to fund their loan books and, therefore, need to offer higher rates to attract and retain savers.
Applying for a personal loan? Here's the list of documents you will need
To get a personal loan, a borrower must submit certain documents. Applicants should prepare documentation in advance for quicker processing. Here's a list of documents you will need and eligibility criteria to apply for a personal loan.
REITs distribute 8900 crore to unitholders in FY26, a 50% increase in disbursements
In FY26, India's five publicly listed REITs distributed over 8900 crore to unitholders, marking a 50% increase from the previous year. They manage over 187 million square feet of real estate, reflecting their growing importance in capital markets.
UPI goes live in Cambodia: Indian tourists can now pay at 4.5 million merchant outlets via KHQR
Indian users will be able to make QR payments at over 4.5 million merchant outlets in Cambodia. The next phase of the initiative will allow Cambodian visitors to do the same in India. Details here.
The 8th Pay Commission, constituted on November 3, 2025, is reviewing salaries and pensions for central government employees and pensioners over its 18-month tenure. Its recommendations, expected by May 2027, will significantly impact financial benefits and livelihoods amidst rising inflation.
Teen cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi has a net worth of 7 crore at 15, primarily from cricket earnings and endorsements. Tax laws for minors in India generally club their income with that of the parent, with exceptions for specific circumstances like income from personal skills. Details here.
50,000 salary blueprint for Bengaluru women: Budgeting, SIPs, tax planning and wealth creation
Working women in Bengaluru earning 50,000 should prioritize personalized financial planning. By tracking expenses, building an emergency fund, and utilizing AI tools for budgeting, they can achieve financial stability and make informed decisions for their future.
Equity MFs investing in energy stocks turn chart toppers
Despite economic strain from the oil shock, equity mutual funds in the energy sector have performed remarkably, gaining 9.4% in 2026. The Nifty Energy Index rose 14.3%, benefiting from strong earnings growth and high demand, making these funds a tactical investment choice for high-risk investors.
ITR filing AY 2026-27: Why salaried taxpayers should wait until 15 June before filing returns
The Income Tax Act, 2025, effective from April 1, 2026, renames Form 16 to Form 130. Salaried taxpayers should wait until June 15 to file ITR for AY 2026-27, as employers must provide Form 130 by this date for accurate filing.
smallcase launches mutual fund model portfolios, expands beyond stocks and ETFs
smallcase has launched mutual fund model portfolios, expanding beyond stocks and ETFs. The new offering provides professionally managed portfolios of direct mutual funds across asset classes, helping investors simplify fund selection, portfolio construction and monitoring while aligning investments with specific financial goals.
What Karnataka high courts ruling on hiring advocates means for insurance ombudsman system
The Karnataka High Court's recent ruling in insurance disputes asserts that complainants have the right to legal representation as cases progress beyond mediation. It rejected the concern that policyholders who need help are somehow gaming the system by seeking it.
Tax on property sale in India: How capital gains are taxed and ways to claim exemption
Selling a house can result in capital gains tax, depending on how long the property was held. However, certain exemptions are available for homeowners. Full details here.
How long will a Rs 20,000 SIP and Rs 1 lakh lump sum take to become Rs 3 crore? Check calculations
A monthly SIP of Rs 20,000, coupled with a Rs 1 lakh lump sum investment and an assumed annual return of 12%, can help investors accumulate a corpus of about Rs 3 crore in roughly 23 years and 7 months, according to calculator estimates.
DTAA explained: How NRIs can avoid double taxation and save on taxes?
DTAA allows NRIs to pay tax only in one country or at reduced rates, preventing double taxation on income earned in India and their country of residence. Here's how it works.
AI trillion-dollar boom: Why India missed the biggest wealth-creation story of the decade
The AI wave has not merely created new products. It has minted trillions of dollars in market value and transformed a handful of technology firms into wealth-compounding machines.
Navigating health insurance portability: Check key rules, FAQs and online process, explained
In India, health insurance portability enables policyholders to switch insurers without losing accrued benefits like NCB. Requests must be made 45 days before renewal. Here are the top FAQs answered
Add-on credit cards can offer benefits, but should only be used with caution, as shared credit limits, full repayment liability, and credit score risks can affect family financial control.
A conservative evaluation of a 1.5 crore home purchase in Gurugram on a 25 LPA salary reveals affordability concerns.
NFO Alert: HSBC Mutual Fund launches hybrid long-short fund under its SIF segment RedHex
HSBC Mutual Fund has launched the RedHex Hybrid Long-Short Fund, a Specialised Investment Fund strategy aimed at generating regular income and capital appreciation through a diversified mix of fixed income, equity arbitrage, REITs and InvITs. The fund targets risk-adjusted returns with lower volatility and offers weekly redemption opportunities.
ITR: When can taxpayers claim deductions under Sections 80C, 80CCC, 80CCD (1), 80CDD (1B), 80D, 80DD, 80DDB, 80E, 80EE, and 80EEA of the I-T Act, as applicable under the old tax regime? Here's a look
I asked ChatGPT to keep my job future-proof: AI asks me to build a T-shaped profile
A simple learning system emphasises mastering fundamentals, building visible work and public application, according to ChatGPT.
Have Rs 30 lakh to invest for 20 years? Here's how an expert suggests allocating the corpus
Investors receiving a large lump sum for long-term goals should avoid immediate equity deployment. Financial planners suggest parking funds in liquid instruments and using Systematic Transfer Plans (STPs) over 12 months to mitigate market timing risks. This staggered approach, combined with a diversified equity allocation, aims to optimize returns over a 20-year horizon.
Are target maturity funds right for you? Here's how passive debt investing works.
These passive debt instruments offer a way to lock in predictable returns, but their safety depends entirely on an investor's ability to time them right and hold to maturity.
Choosing a health insurance plan requires due diligence and understanding personal needs. HDFC ERGO offers comprehensive coverage, while ICICI Lombard provides cost-efficient modular options. Here is a detailed comparison between the two.
EPFO 3.0 ATM withdrawal explained: Launch status, PF withdrawal process, rules, and limits
Want to know if EPFO 3.0 ATM withdrawal is live? Check the latest update, official status, PF withdrawal process, UPI option, rules, limits, launch timeline, login details, and what members should do now.
Secure a steady retirement income with the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) at 8.2%. A couple can earn nearly 5 lakh annually on a 60 lakh investment backed by a government guarantee.
Quant Mutual Fund is strategically focusing on under-owned, under-researched, and neglected market segments for higher alpha generation. The fund house is underweight on manufacturing but has increased exposure to technology stocks, while maintaining a positive outlook on energy, infrastructure, and financial services.
Financial planning includes calculating your savings, investments and retirement fund before making investment decisions. If you plan to purchase an SUV in the next 2-5 years, here's how you can use SIPs to build adequate corpus
Multicap vs flexicap mutual funds: Which is better placed amid market volatility?
Market volatility prompts a look at multicap and flexicap mutual funds. Experts weigh in on their suitability for uncertain times. Multicap funds offer disciplined allocation across market caps. Flexicap funds provide managers flexibility to adjust holdings. A balanced portfolio strategy across different equity categories is advised for investors to navigate market swings effectively.
On 2 June, gold prices on MCX rose marginally amid a weaker dollar and declining crude oil prices. MCX gold August futures rose to 1,59,440 per 10 grams, while geopolitical tensions surrounding US-Iran negotiations continued to impact markets.
Top 10 mutual funds to invest in June 2026
New investors often struggle to find suitable mutual funds, relying on short-term performance or personal recommendations. ETMutualFunds presents a curated list of top schemes across five equity categories to guide investors. The article emphasizes understanding fund categories, risk profiles, and investment objectives before investing.
Why time in the market is more important than timing the market
Giving your portfolio time is one of the best investment choices you can make, as equities require a long-term investment horizon to truly perform.
