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A management consultant has shared his investment strategy on Instagram aimed at young investors. Here's a look at how he divides his savings into long-term, medium-term, and emergency fund to achieve financial growth.
Income-tax returns: Today we explain what ITR assisted filing is, who is allowed to assist, who is considered authorised representative, the requirements and eligibility criteria and other important factors.
A 14.65 lakh CTC does not necessarily mean you have to pay income tax under the new tax regime. With the right salary structure, employer contributions to EPF and NPS, and the standard deduction, your taxable income can be brought down to 11.99 lakh, making you eligible for zero tax liability.
Mutual funds holding cash: Is high cash balance a red flag for investors? Experts explain
Experts suggest that cash holdings should be viewed as a portfolio management tool rather than a buy-or-sell signal. A fund's investment philosophy, portfolio quality, and long-term performance remain far more important than a single percentage shown in the monthly factsheet.
EPF vs Labour Codes: If basic pay must be 50%, why is PF capped at 1,800?
Payroll rules are changing in India as EPF vs labour codes reshape salary structures and PF calculations. While basic pay norms rise, EPF contributions remain capped at 1,800, impacting take-home pay and retirement planning choices.
Are super top-up plans becoming redundant?
While stacking policies was once the ultimate cost-saving hack for medical emergencies, a shifting market has quietly changed the math for policyholders.
Buying health insurance? One overlooked document can tell you what brochures wont
Irdai-mandated product-wise NL-47 disclosures reveal claim settlement, complaint rates, renewals and more, helping buyers compare health insurance plans beyond brochures and marketing claims.
How much should you invest through SIPs to build Rs 1 crore? Use this calculator
Learn how to calculate the monthly investment needed to build a Rs 1 crore corpus using Excels PMT function or a manual formula. The guide explains assumptions, calculation steps, and how changing returns, goals or timelines affects required investments for better financial planning.
Employee groups are demanding merger of Dearness Allowance with basic pay to increase monthly salary. Here's what the Finance Ministry has clarified about higher basic pay, changes to salary structure and DA
Gold drops 30%, silver plunges 54% but history shows 2026 correction isnt the deepest yet
Gold and silver have fallen sharply from their record highs in 2026, with gold down about 30% and silver by 54%. However, historical cycles show the current declines are not the deepest, and the time correction is still pending.
EPFO's 1,800 EPF contribution cap explained: Who benefits more employees or employers?
The EPF Scheme, 2026 introduces clearer guidelines on provident fund contributions, capping mandatory payments at 1,800 monthly. While employees benefit from increased take-home pay and flexibility, they may risk a smaller retirement fund if they don't opt for additional voluntary contributions.
A total of 12 equity mutual funds delivered an XIRR of over 15% on SIP investments over the last three years, according to an ETMutualFunds analysis of 255 schemes. Midcap and small-cap funds dominated the list, while just two funds posted negative SIP returns during the period.
Why balanced hybrid funds are back in focus
A balanced hybrid strategy aims to keep the equity-debt allocation closer to a 50:50 mix, providing more stability and limiting downside risk.
How to spot fake websites: PIB Fact Check lists 5 warning signs to watch for
PIB Fact Check suggests that users should verify the URL, ensure the site uses HTTPS, look for the padlock icon, avoid websites with excessive pop-ups or clickbait, check the contact and about pages, and avoid offers that appear too good to be true.
Nearing retirement? Here's how to decide between a bank FD and an SWP for monthly cash flow
Nearing retirement and confused between bank FDs and SWPs for monthly income? An expert suggests a balanced approach. Instead of picking just one, combine safe instruments like FDs for immediate expenses with hybrid or equity funds for growth.
Tax credit mismatch in ITR? Here's how to check and fix it before your refund is delayed
A tax credit mismatch occurs when the tax credit claimed in your ITR does not match the records available with the Income Tax Department. It can delay refunds, lead to tax notices, or result in additional tax demands.
ESIC extends Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana till June 2027: Who can claim unemployment benefits?
Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana (ABVKY) under ESIC has been extended until 30 June 2027, allowing eligible ESI-insured employees to continue receiving temporary unemployment allowance during job loss and financial hardship.
NFO Insight: Can AlphaGrep's algorithm-driven multi-asset fund deliver better risk-adjusted returns?
AlphaGrep Mutual Fund has launched its first fund, the AlphaGrep Multi Asset Allocation Fund, employing a unique algorithm-driven approach. This open-ended scheme dynamically allocates capital across equities, fixed income, and commodities, aiming for better risk-adjusted returns with minimal human bias. Experts weigh in on the merits of algorithmic versus traditional multi-asset strategies, highlighting the importance of a long track record and individual investor control over asset allocation.
A 30 lakh annual salary doesn't mean your entire income is taxed at 30%. After the 75,000 standard deduction under the new regime, slab-wise taxation, and a 4% health and education cess, the total tax liability comes to 475,800, resulting in an effective tax rate of just 15.86%.
Investing apps demand scrutiny: Why choosing the right platform is about more than pricing
Smart investing apps promise convenience, but they demand scrutiny. From transparency in fees to clarity in advice, investors must research carefully, verify SEBI registrations and treat apps as tools, not decisionmakers, to avoid costly mistakes.
Gold and silver prices today, 6 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.
Best mid cap mutual funds to invest in July 2026
Mid-cap mutual funds have seen a strong rally, leading to investor anxiety about current valuations. While these companies offer potential for future growth, they also carry significant risks, including corporate governance issues. Investors with high risk tolerance and a long-term horizon (7-10 years) are advised to proceed with caution, focusing on regular investments rather than quick gains. Several mid-cap funds are highlighted for their recent performance.
EPF interest after retirement at 58 continues until 61. Here's right time to withdraw your savings
An EPF account can continue earning interest for up to 3 years after retirement at age 58. Knowing the right time to withdraw your EPF savings helps maximise returns before the account becomes inoperative.
8th Pay Commission begins stakeholder consultations in Odisha. The Commission will gather feedback on salaries, allowances and pensions before tabling its recommendations to the Centre by mid-2027.
Discouraging investors from blindly chasing returns, Buffett reiterated his view that the stock markets are like a church (long term investments) with a casino (quick, short-term bets) attached and many investors are taking too much risk.
A study by DBS Bank India explored how female earners in the country engage with digital payments, banking, credit and investment platforms and found that over half of the rural women earners now use UPI.
EPF withdrawals are tax-free after five years of service. Before that, TDS applies for amounts over 50,000. Partial withdrawals are allowed with conditions, and claims can be made online or offline.
Bank holidays next week: UPI and bank apps allow 24/7 transactions. Banks will be closed on Sundays and second Saturdays, with online services available during holidays. Customers must verify local branch holiday schedules.
Delhi's new electronic vehicles policy provides 1 lakh scrapping incentive for four-wheeler owners who switch to EVs from petrol and diesel vehicles. We explain how the incentives work and steps to apply
Based on 10-year returns, Nippon India Small Cap Fund emerged as the best-performing diversified equity scheme, delivering a CAGR of 21.81% over the past decade. The rankings also highlight that Quant Mutual Fund had three schemes among the top five performers.
Fallen trees, flooded roads, dead batteries: How motor OD cover protects you
Own Damage cover protects vehicles from storms and floods, but payouts shrink sharply without add-ons like zero depreciation. A Mumbai case shows how skipping the fine print can cost thousands in unexpected out-of-pocket repairs.
Aggressive hybrid funds: 5 schemes gave 15%+ SIP returns in 10 years; check here
The top aggressive hybrid funds generated annualised SIP returns of up to 18.57% over the past decade. Here's how the category's best-performing schemes fared across three-, five- and 10-year investment horizons.
Today we explore some of the key pension revision demands made by groups and what these could mean for retirees if accepted.
Today we take a look at the top 5 DA related demands made by central govt employee representative groups, unions and stakeholders who collectively represent a large number of staff and pensioners, including defence and railway personnel.
For equity, hybrid, and most debt funds, the cut-off timing is 3:00 PM, while liquid and overnight funds follow different timelines, with a 1:30 PM purchase cut-off and a 3:00 PM redemption cut-off (extended to 7:00 PM for applications received through online mode).
ITR filing 2026: Have a US 401(k) or foreign pension? You may have to file ITR-2
ITR rules for AY 2026-27 make taxpayers with foreign assets, overseas retirement accounts or foreign income ineligible for ITR-1 in many cases. Here's who may need to file ITR-2 instead, the reporting requirements, and what returning NRIs should know before filing their income tax return.
Can delayed ITR e-verification lead to loss of your tax refund? ITAT answers
The Delhi ITAT has ruled that a genuine income tax refund cannot be denied merely because an ITR was e-verified late, if the delay has already been condoned by the Central Processing Centre (CPC). Here's what taxpayers should know.
Axis MF launches Axis Nifty50 Equal Weight Index Fund: Here's what you need to know
Axis Mutual Fund has announced the launch of its Axis Nifty50 Equal Weight Index Fund, an open-ended passive scheme that tracks the Nifty50 Equal Weight TRI. The NFO is open for subscription from 3 July to 17 July, 2026.
AI is transforming industries, but concerns grow over inflated valuations of AI stocks. Big Tech's investments in AI signal a shift, yet the risk of a market correction could impact Indian investors, especially if foreign institutional investors withdraw funds.
Do you need to file an ITR? Check the conditions that make income tax return filing mandatory
Income is not the only factor that determines whether an ITR must be filed. Several other conditions, including high-value transactions, bank deposits, business turnover, professional receipts and foreign assets, can also require ITR filing.
International mutual funds: Only 12 funds still accept fresh SIPs. See the list
Most international mutual funds remain closed after overseas investment limits were exhausted. Here's which schemes are still open and how they've performed over the past year.
Gold and silver prices rose in India last week amid positive global cues. Check retail rates of 24K, 22K gold, 18K, 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other cities.
6 mutual fund NFOs to open for subscription this week. Check dates and key details
Investors have a busy week ahead with six new mutual funds launching. Mirae Asset, NJ Mutual Fund, Edelweiss, and AlphaGrep are introducing a mix of passive and actively managed schemes. These new offerings aim to broaden investment choices, with subscription periods starting as early as July 6th and minimum investments as low as Rs 500. Explore these new avenues for your portfolio.
Gas prices surged, prompting questions about investing in EV stocks like Tesla. However, valuations may not align with sales. Experts advise focusing on long-term EV adoption trends and diversifying investments rather than reacting to short-term fuel price spikes.
EPF Scheme 2026: 9,330 crore still unclaimed in inactive PF accounts
More than 30.9 lakh inactive EPF accounts held 9,330 crore as of March 31, 2026, according to official data. The figures come even as the Centre rolls out the new EPF Scheme, 2026 to simplify provident fund rules and improve digital services.
Gold loans surge in India: Average ticket size jumps 39% YoY to 1.96 lakh
Gold loans in India are booming as rising gold prices drive bigger borrowings. Average ticket size jumped 39% YoY to 1.96 lakh in FY26, doubling in three years. The portfolio has surged nationwide, reflecting stronger demand and deeper financial inclusion.
Elon Musk's SpaceX and the vision of off-planet industrialization
Dhirendra Kumar reflects on a compelling conversation with a friend about the future of space mining and manufacturing, suggesting potential shifts in industry that could change life on Earth. For once, he's not telling you to ignore the news.
Tesla and SpaceX have both seen significant declines, impacting Elon Musk's net worth and triggering investor panic. CEO Viram Shah discusses if this is profit-booking or a deeper market re-rating, advising Indian retail investors to assess their positions and remain cautious amid volatility.
Attention parents! Want to start a public provident fund account for your child? Here's how much wealth consistent PPF investment of 5,000 per month will build for their future over the longer term.
EPF-2026 rules: Will your take-home salary increase under the new 1,800 PF contribution cap?
Under the new EPF Scheme, 2026, introduced by the Centre, both employee and employer must contribute 1,800 monthly. This change may increase take-home salaries for higher earners but could decrease long-term retirement funds.
Life Insurance Corporation: How to pay LIC premium online and through app Top FAQs answered
Life Insurance Corporation: For policyholders who choose either annual, bi-yearly, quarterly or monthly basis, here's how you can pay your LIC premium online through app. We also take a look at the top FAQs answered.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is aiding women hosts in North America to earn from tourism by renting their homes. Many see it as a vital income source amid rising financial pressures, allowing them to cover expenses and invest in personal ventures.
Income-tax returns: Here's how to access and submit your ITR-1 form using the official e-filing portal
Investors often err by trying to time stock purchases. Stock SIPs allow regular investments in stocks, similar to mutual funds. While they can yield significant returns, they can also backfire.
Market participation is not wealth creation: 5 mistakes retail investors should avoid
Experts underscore that there is a world of difference between rebalancing your portfolio and churning it. The former is good, the latter not.
Investing discipline beats market predictions: Why experts want investors to ignore the noise
Investing should be calm and research-based, not influenced by social media hype. Experts urge investors to validate sources, consider risks, and focus on data. Maintaining discipline and sticking to personal goals is crucial for long-term success in wealth creation.
Can a 15 lakh FD generate 1 lakh annual income? Here's the simple calculation
A 15 lakh fixed deposit can deliver a steady annual income with the right interest rate. See how a 15 lakh FD can generate around 1 lakh yearly, compare current bank FD rates, and understand the impact of taxes before investing.
8th pay commission: The panel will visit various railway departments in Mumbai to gain firsthand experience of employees' working conditions. On the agenda is observation of daily operations, duties and job risks.
Doesnt matter if you win or lose, Rafael Nadal on his business ventures and what tennis taught him about investingDoesnt matter if you win or lose, Rafael Nadal on what tennis taught him about investing
Which equity mutual funds topped SIP returns? These AMCs dominated the rankings
Small-cap and mid-cap funds dominated the SIP return charts over three, five and 10 years. The rankings also reveal a handful of AMCs that consistently produced some of the best-performing equity mutual funds.
DA hike: Himachal Pradesh State Forest Development Corporation (HPSFDC) employees are set to receive a 3% hike in dearness allowance, minimum wage hike, and bonus for staff who draw up to 21,000 monthly salary.
Quant Mutual Fund expects Indian equities to consolidate after the recent rally but believes micro-, small- and mid-cap stocks will drive alpha. It remains bullish on energy, infrastructure, select financials, telecom and pharma while advocating active portfolio management over passive investing.
7 personal finance rules everyone should know before turning 30 to build lasting wealth
Strong money habits build lasting wealth. These personal finance rules can help young Indians save smarter, invest early, avoid costly debt, and plan for retirement with confidence. Small financial decisions today create greater security and long-term financial success.
11 equity mutual funds deliver over 25% in 3 months. Do you own any?
Eleven equity mutual funds generated over 25% returns in the past three months, led by small-cap schemes. JM Small Cap Fund topped the list with a 35.02% gain. Experts advise investors to prioritise risk profile and goals over past performance.
8th Pay Commission: 18,000 to 69,000? Here's the math behind the demand
Employee unions have proposed raising the minimum basic pay to 69,000 from 18,000. Here's a breakdown of the key calculations behind the demand.
Despite recent underperformance, experts continue recommending Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund for its consistent long-term, risk-adjusted returns and disciplined large-cap bias. They advise investors to evaluate funds over complete market cycles instead of chasing short-term performance or recent category leaders.
Looking for the best mutual funds to invest in? Check top 10 picks for July 2026
Choosing mutual funds solely on past returns can be misleading. ETMutualFunds shortlisted 10 funds across five equity categories using rolling returns, consistency, downside risk, outperformance and asset size, helping investors align investments with their goals, risk appetite and time horizon.
Income Tax: Can you claim bad debt deduction during recovery? ITAT explains
The Ahmedabad ITAT has ruled that businesses can claim a bad debt deduction once the amount is written off in their books and statutory conditions are met, even if recovery proceedings are still pending. The Tribunal also allowed the claim as a business loss under Section 28 of the Income-tax Act.
A stronger credit score starts with smart habits. You can improve your credit score from 600 to 750 by repaying your debt obligations on time, keeping credit utilisation low, avoiding unnecessary applications and checking your credit report regularly for steady financial progress.
EPFO discontinues UAN activation on portal: What PF subscribers should know
EPFO has restored its Unified Member Portal after a major upgrade. However, UAN activation and new UAN generation have moved to the UMANG app. Here's everything PF subscribers need to know.
5 red flags investors should watch out for before choosing a financial product
If an investment product promises exceptionally high returns and claims little or no risk to the amount invested, you should consider it as a clear red flag.
Sebi open market share buy-back norms explained: Eligibility, timeline and impact
Sebi has approved the reintroduction of share buy-backs through the open market route from 1 August 2026. The buy-back timelines have been reduced, and promoters are not allowed to participate.
Check RBI calendar to know if SBI, HDFC, ICICI, others are open or closed on 4 July. RBI's holiday schedule provides comprehensive detail about non-working days for banks under Negotiable Instruments Act and other under Banks Closing of Accounts in addition to weekend offs.
You can now add, update email to Aadhaar for free: Check how, last date and other details
UIDAI is now allowing people to add or update email IDs to their Aadhaar card directly through the mobile application. The service was enabled on 1 July 2026 and will be free to use for six months.
The new income tax form initially lacked a section for certain tax exempt receipts. Now, it includes an additional dropdown for Receipts not in the nature of income. Experts decode what this news head means for taxpayers.
Dearness Allowance: DA is revised twice a year by the All-India Consumer Price Index (AICPI) to match cost-of-living. Here's a look at the numbers and whether employees could get 3-4% DA hike this month
The central government has introduced the EPF Scheme, 2026, mandating a fixed monthly contribution of 1,800 each from employees and employers. Here's how the new rules may shrink your final provident fund corpus.
Retirement planning involves personalized strategies for investing according to risk appetite and anticipated lifestyle changes. Factors like inflation and healthcare costs must be incorporated into calculating the necessary retirement corpus.
Employees' Provident Fund Organisation: We take a look at the top four reasons an EPF subscriber's claim for their employees' provident fund may be rejected. Check the reasons here, explained.
4 small-cap schemes delivered over 30% in 3 months. Do you own any?
The small-cap mutual fund category returned an average 22.41% in the past three months, outperforming the Nifty Smallcap 250 TRI. Four schemes delivered over 30%, but only one has a track record that extends beyond five years.
The Wealth Company Asset Management announces appointment of Unmesh Kulkarni as managing director
The Wealth Company Asset Management, part of Pantomath Group, has appointed Unmesh Kulkarni as its Managing Director. With 29 years of experience in wealth management and capital markets, Kulkarni previously co-founded Merrill Lynch and Julius Baer's wealth management arms in India.
Paytm Europe has been granted a payment institution licence by the Luxembourg financial supervisory authority CSSF to conduct credit and funds transfers, and payment transactions. Here's all you need to know
Bank of India Small Cap among 6 equity funds to deliver over 15% return in 6 months. Check details
Six small cap mutual funds delivered over 15% returns in the past six months, led by Bank of India Small Cap Fund with a 21.04% gain. Other performers include TRUSTMF, JM, Motilal Oswal, Union, and ITI funds, reflecting strong momentum in the small cap segment.
ITR 2026: Who must file tax return even if their income is below 4 lakh?
Many taxpayers mistakenly believe they only need to file an income tax return (ITR) if their income exceeds 4 lakh. However, various situations, such as high-value transactions and foreign assets, require mandatory ITR filing regardless of income level.
IRDAI plans to implement staggered commissions, spreading payouts over the policy term to improve transparency, reduce churn and align distributor incentives with customer needs across Indias insurance market.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the most profitable tournament ever, with a prize pool of $871 million and the winning nation receiving $50 million. Ticket prices and broadcasting rights are significantly higher than in previous tournaments.
EPF Scheme 2026: PF above 1,800 now voluntary; what changes for you?
PF contributions above 1,800 a month are no longer mandatory under the new EPF Scheme. The contribution rate, wage ceiling and EPF interest rate remain unchanged.
Eleven equity mutual funds turned investors lumpsum investments into more than four times their original value over the past seven years, led by small-cap schemes. Quant Small Cap Fund topped the list, while mid-cap, flexi-cap and ELSS funds also delivered strong long-term wealth creation, according to ETMutualFunds' analysis.
EPS-2026 replaces EPS-95: Eligibility, membership rules, and withdrawal conditions explained
The central government has notified EPS-2026, replacing previous versions. Effective from June 29, 2026, it clarifies eligibility, membership conditions, and pension benefits, while keeping the minimum monthly pension at 1,000 unchanged.
