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A 38-year-old investor with a 20-year horizon is considering a Rs 30 lakh lump sum investment alongside her existing SIPs. Financial expert Harshvardhan Roongta advises careful evaluation of market conditions and risk appetite before deploying the lump sum, suggesting either equity or hybrid fund strategies for wealth creation.
Tax-exempt investment options in India here are 5 EEE instruments for long-term savings
Investors seeking post-tax returns can consider EEE instruments in India, which provide tax benefits throughout the investment cycle. While primarily found in government schemes, they offer a stable and safe option for traditional investors.
US Social Security: April's last payment to be sent tomorrow, are you on the list?
The final April Social Security payments will be distributed this week, specifically on April 22 for beneficiaries born between the 21st and the month's end. The May payment cycle will start after that, with SSI payments expected on May 1, 2026.
8th Pay Commission: 69,000 minimum salary, 3.83 fitment factor; NC-JCM's 7 key demands explained
8th Pay Commission NC-JCM demands explained: They cover key issues such as salary, fitment factor, and pension reforms. The proposal includes a minimum salary of 69,000. It also suggests a 3.833 fitment factor. The aim is to improve pensions and the overall pay structure.
Dont apply for a visa before knowing this key cost difference
Choosing between single-entry and multiple-entry visas depends on travel frequency, budget, and plans. Single-entry visas are cheaper for one-time trips, while multiple-entry visas provide flexibility and convenience for frequent travelers, despite higher initial costs.
GSTR-3B March 2026 filing: Was the 20 April deadline extended? What happens if you miss due date?
Tax professionals are voicing concerns over technical glitches affecting GSTR-3B filings for the March 2026 tax period. The GST portal also shows that a one-day extension is under consideration, but no official announcement has been made yet.
Planning to invest in flexicaps? Here are top 7 funds for April 2026
Launched in May 2013, the fund has delivered around 25% returns over the last three years on a rolling basis.
Your mutual fund's new expense ratio has a maths problem
Sebi's biggest cost disclosure reform in three decades went live on 1 April. The new framework is more transparent, but one design choice produces numbers that could confuse everyone from retail investors to advisors to data platforms.
8th Pay Commission update confirms that the memorandum submission remains open until 30 April, allowing government employees, pensioners and stakeholders to share their inputs for the pay and pension review process.
Indias home loan boom runs into a paperwork wall
Heavy documentation, uneven processes and opaque practices continue to slow borrowers, even as credit fuels most home purchases.
Small-cap mutual funds have surged, delivering double-digit returns in the past month, outperforming mid and large caps. Experts caution this is a sharp recovery post-correction, not a sustained rally, with high valuations and investor greed posing risks. Long-term investors with a high-risk appetite might consider SIPs, but large caps currently offer better risk-reward.
The Gold Edge: ETF net inflows up 4.5x in FY26
Gold ETFs witnessed a record surge in net inflows of 68,867 crore in FY26, driven by geopolitical risks and stock market volatility. This exceptional growth, a 364% year-on-year jump, saw gold ETFs capture nearly 10% of total mutual fund inflows, significantly outperforming other categories like equity and debt.
After direct push, Jio BlackRock taps distributors to drive growth
Jio BlackRock Asset Management is shifting its sales strategy, embracing distributors less than a year after its launch. Initially bypassing intermediaries, the joint venture will now offer specialized investment funds through distributors, with plans to extend this to mutual fund schemes. This move aims to cater to a segment of the market requiring additional guidance for investment decisions.
If your investment in gold is not for personal use, there are other alternatives to choose when looking to invest in the asset instead of purchasing physical gold. We explore digital gold what it means, its cost, associated charges, tax liability and regulatory protections.
PPF is a government-backed savings scheme with tax-exemption that parents or guardians can open for their child / minor in care, till the account holder turns 18. Here's all you need to know about the process, contribution limit, deduction, and more
Top investment options 2026: Compare fixed deposits, PPF, mutual funds, ELSS, and gold to balance risk, returns, and inflation protection amid geopolitical uncertainty and evolving economic conditions in India.
Tax Collected at Source: Here's how changes to TCS rates impact you check bank charges applicable
The Centre has TCS charges to ease tax burden on individuals. The changes are expected to give households and travelers relief. Here's how they impact you and what ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank have informed customers
7 common mutual fund mistakes beginners must avoid in volatile markets
Mutual fund mistakes can erode returns during volatile markets as investors react to fear, stop SIPs, chase performance, and ignore asset allocation, while disciplined investing builds long-term wealth in any country.
As retirees reach 60, fixed deposits (FDs) offer a secure investment option for managing expenses like medical and living costs. Here is a comparison on what's on offer from various private and public lenders
Mastering your 50,000 monthly income: A practical ChatGPT-inspired expense plan
A practical guide to managing a 50,000 monthly income using structured budgeting, highlighting savings, investments, and the importance of personalised financial planning for long-term stability in any country.
The government-backed Sukanya Samridhhi Yojana can help secure major life expenses, such as education, healthcare, hobbies and other aspirations for your daughter. Here's if and how you can conduct partial or full withdrawals before complete tenure.
I consulted ChatGPT and Gemini on which car I should buy on a yearly salary of 7-9 lakh. The answers by AI chatbots changed my perspective on the buying decision.
As UPI fraud worries rise, can the e-rupee be a safer way to pay?
With 10.64 lakh UPI fraud cases worth 805 crore reported in FY26 (till November), RBI is tightening instant payments. But can the e-rupees token model lower scam risks?
Niva Bupa ReAssure 3.0 vs HDFC ERGO Optima Secure+: Which health plan is worth your money in 2026?
Niva Bupa ReAssure 3.0 vs HDFC ERGO Optima Secure+ comparison highlights, features, coverage, riders, premiums and benefits to help choose a suitable premium health insurance plan. Make sure you seek professional guidance before locking in on any plan.
Market volatility is back. What should investors do now?
Oil above $100, a weak rupee and job worries are rattling sentiment, but history suggests disciplined investors who stay focused on long-term goals tend to come out ahead.
Planning a Rs 1 crore corpus in 10 years? Heres how to optimise your mutual fund portfolio
Building long-term wealth through mutual funds requires a prudent mix of asset allocation, disciplined investing, and regular portfolio reviews.
How gold turned $609 billion of imports into a $1.9 trillion stockpile?
Between 2011 and 2025, India imported $609 billion worth of gold. At todays prices, that holding is worth $1.9 trillionmaking gold one of the greatest household wealth creators in modern India.
5 mutual funds add 8 midcap stocks to their portfolios in March. Here are the details
Five mutual funds added eight midcap stocks to their portfolios in March, signaling selective accumulation as valuations turned attractive after the recent correction.
How new labour codes are quietly cutting tax bills under the new tax regime prominent CAs explain
New labour codes are changing tax planning by promoting structured salaries and employer-led benefits, helping boost tax savings under the new tax regime. Understanding these changes and consulting a tax expert is essential to make the most of these changes.
Dont have PAN or taxable income? You must file Form 157 before travelling abroad
Under the old IT regime, PAN was mandatory for filing Form 156 that was required to be filed by outbound travellers. While Form 156 could be filed on the e-filing portal of the IT department in the old regime, Form 157 can be done only manually under the IT Act, 2025.
MF Tracker: After a strong 7 year run, can this international fund maintain momentum?
Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 FOF has delivered exceptional returns, outperforming equity mutual funds over seven years, driven by US tech giants and a weakening rupee. However, experts caution against chasing sector-specific rallies, advocating for diversified domestic equity exposure for long-term wealth creation.
How to reapply for personal loan if rejected and whats the process?
If you face a rejection, it is important to understand the underlying causes and how to recover.
Claiming grandparents fixed deposits after death: What to do without a will
Grandchildren might be uncertain of their legal standing or mistakenly believe that only the most immediate surviving heirs are entitled to the funds
We explore top 20 investment tips from the 17 best investors of all time, including Warren Buffett, Benjamin Graham and Peter Lynch. Here are some timeless investment lessons you should not ignore:
An employee was fined 10 lakh for not disclosing ESOP shares in his income tax return. The ITAT Chennai canceled the penalty, citing that the omission was accidental and there was no intent to conceal income, as the shares were already taxed.
Sriram Finance revises fixed deposit interest rates from 6 May Check details here
Sriram Finance has revised its fixed deposit interest rates effective 6 May 2026, following upgrades to its credit ratings by CARE Ratings, CRISIL Ratings, ICRA, and India Ratings. Here's all you need to know:
The I-T department has replaced the old Form 10E with the new Form 39 for taxpayers to claim relief on salary arrears and specified receipts under Section 157(1) of ITA 2025. Here's all you need to know
I asked ChatGPT and Gemini what how much home loan i can afford on a 7-9 lakh salary. Here's what advice the chatbots gave me
5 mutual funds add 11 smallcap stocks to their portfolios in March. Check which ones
Five mutual funds added 11 smallcap stocks to their portfolios in March, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities. SBI Mutual Fund and ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund led additions, while Axis, Nippon India and Quant Mutual Fund also picked select names, reflecting active portfolio management in the smallcap segment.
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund: HDFC Bank, ITC and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings in March
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund, a new entrant, reported an AUM of Rs 15,258 crore in March, with HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank as its top holdings. The portfolio also includes Bharti Airtel, Reliance Industries, Infosys and ITC, based on data from Prime Database.
Nine midcap stocks, including Physicswallah and Jubilant Foodworks, may be downgraded to smallcap in AMFIs H2 CY26 rejig, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities. Revised market capitalisation thresholds could trigger reclassification, impacting mutual fund portfolios and stock positioning across categories.
11 gold ETFs offer up to 59% return since last Akshaya Tritiya. Do you own any?
Gold ETFs have delivered significant returns, with some offering up to 59% since the last Akshaya Tritiya. Tata Gold ETF led with a 59.42% return. Experts suggest digital gold via ETFs or funds of funds is preferable for investment. Gold remains a crucial asset for portfolio diversification and hedging against inflation and economic uncertainty.
New ITR forms for AY 2026-27 require investors to disclose NBFC, HFC and corporate fixed deposit interest under Schedule OS. Here's what you must report before 31 July 2026.
Building wealth for your family is only half the job. The other half nobody does.
Decades of disciplined investing can unravel overnight if families cannot locate accounts or understand succession rules. A Will and a simple financial map can prevent chaos.
Balanced advantage funds move in sync with marketsbut not in the same way
Indias top five BAFs in terms of investor assets cut and add equity through the cycle, but differences in models drive sharp variation in timing, range and conviction.
A survey reveals that 31% of consumers feel cheated when buying silver, with 93% supporting mandatory hallmarking to ensure purity and quality of silver products.
Buying products on low-cost EMIs? Here's how it can burn a bigger hole in your pocket in long run
Lower EMIs mean paying less immediately but losing much in the long run. Here we explain how.
Tax clearance required every time you leave the country? PIB fact checks viral claim
Under Section 230 (of the Income Tax Act, 1961), tax clearance certificates are not mandatory for all individuals, said PIB
A LinkedIn post by a CA discusses how high income does not guarantee wealth, citing lifestyle inflation as a key issue. Many earners struggle to save due to rising expenses, emphasising the need for better financial planning. Details here.
The PPF is a popular long-term savings option offering safety, steady returns, and tax benefits. With a current deposit rate of 7.10%, strategies like timing contributions and using spouse accounts can maximize returns, according to experts.
At 6% inflation, 1 crore will lose significant purchasing power over 20 years, equating to roughly 31 lakh today. Investing wisely can help maintain value, as leaving money idle in savings accounts risks financial stability due to inflation's impact on real income.
Why most SIP investors fail midway And how the 7-5-3-1 rule can help you create real wealth
The main challenge in mutual fund SIPs is staying invested long enough to benefit from compounding. The 7-5-3-1 rule emphasises patience, diversification, and emotional discipline to build long-term wealth, showing that staying invested for at least 7 years significantly increases portfolio value.
SBI Mutual Fund : HDFC Bank and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings in March
Wipro among 18 stocks from which these 7 mutual funds made complete exit in March. Check details
What are arbitrage funds? How they work, who should invest, and other details
Arbitrage Funds are low-risk hybrid mutual funds that profit from price differences between cash and futures markets. While minimising risks, these funds are not entirely risk-free and may underperform in bearish markets. Here's all you need to know.
5 equity mutual funds offer over 15% annualised return on SIP investments in 10 years. Check details
Akshaya Tritiya remains proven entry point for gold investors: Motilal Oswal
Gold continues its role as a trusted asset for Indian households, blending tradition with financial security. Investors are showing increased interest in flexible gold options alongside traditional purchases. Global factors like geopolitical tensions and economic growth concerns support gold's appeal. The outlook for gold remains constructive for medium to long-term investors, with a 'buy on dips' strategy recommended.
Gold funds vs ETFs: Where should mutual fund investors place their bets this Akshaya Tritiya?
Gold ETFs and Gold Funds offer different advantages for investors. Gold ETFs are more cost-effective and tax-efficient. Gold Funds provide easier access for those without a demat account. Experts suggest Gold ETFs for first-time investors seeking direct exposure. Gold's outlook remains constructive, though near-term volatility is expected. Investors should view gold as a hedge, not a core portfolio allocation.
Planning to buy Gold on Akshaya Tritiya? Heres how to check hallmark and purity of 24K, 22K Gold
With Akshaya Tritiya near, gold buying is set to rise. Buyers must ensure jewelry authenticity using these steps
Mutual Fund SIP: Why is making the first crore the hardest thing to do?
The toughest part of building a 10 crore retirement fund is reaching the first 1 crore, which may take 14 years. However, with compounding and consistent SIP investments, subsequent crores can be accumulated significantly faster
Hidden cost of delaying investments: Starting SIPs late can kill crores from your portfolio
Starting early in investment significantly impacts wealth creation due to compounding. Aman, investing 5000 at 25, accumulates 2.75 crore by 60. Delaying investment reduces returns, emphasizing the importance of timing over the amount invested.
Credit cards provide a grace period for interest-free payments if the full amount is repaid by the due date. Paying only the minimum incurs high interest on remaining balances, late fees, and potentially losing the grace period. Details here.
The official reference date for the 8th Pay Commission is 1 January 2026. But because the commission has 18 months to submit its final report, it would place the finalisation around mid-2027.
Multiple sources of income can include monthly interest, quarterly dividends, quarterly REIT, InvIT distributions, alternative investments, freelance projects, etc.
8th Pay Commission: 32,400 to nearly 69,000 basic pay? Fitment factor for govt salary hike decoded
8th Pay Commission: Fitment factor is the multiplier that converts old basic pay into revised basic pay. Here's how the minimum basic pay could rise depending on the various fitment factors demanded by employee unions, and those projected by brokerage firms
The child education allowance has been raised from 100 to 3,000 per month per child, while the hostel allowance has gone up from 300 to 9,000 per month per child. Here's a breakdown of how much one can save on tax, who can claim, other details
National Savings Certificate vs tax-saving FD: Which offers better returns?
While both NSC and tax-saving FDs have a standard 5-year duration, they differ in several key factors, including interest rates and compounding intervals.
As equity markets hit their lowest point in six years, conservative investors are increasingly gravitating toward fixed deposits.
Millions of Indians are investing every year, but not everyone is building wealth Heres why
A large share of those new entrants are first-timers. Many came in during a bull run and haven't yet seen a serious correction. That matters, because the biggest threat to their wealth won't be a bad fund, it'll be their own reaction when markets turn.
Early investment in the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana secures a stronger financial future for a girl child through long-term compounding, tax-free returns and disciplined savings.
In India, people buy gold on Akshaya Tritiya, depending on specific muhurat timings which vary from one city to another. From Kolkata, Delhi to Mumbai, other cities we bring you a list of the city-wise timings for Akshaya Tritiya
Secure your future with these government-backed schemes in India that offer stable returns, tax benefits, and predictable income, making them ideal for long-term financial planning in 2026.
6 AMCs see over Rs 50,000 crore AUM drop in March; top 2 see Rs 1 lakh crore fall
PSU mutual funds see Rs 4,498 crore outflow in March: Report
PSU mutual funds saw Rs 4,498 crore in outflows in March, a mild improvement from February, according to Vallum Capital. While PSU funds posted strong long-term returns, sector trends were mixedconsumption saw withdrawals, but manufacturing, infrastructure, defence and pharma attracted fresh inflows, signalling a pivot toward domestic capex themes.
Want regular income from mutual funds? Here is why SWP offers more control than dividend
Generating a steady income from investments is a common goal for many investors, especially those looking to balance growth with regular cash flow.
Income tax penalties can occur due to default in tax payments, incorrect reporting of income, and, in some cases, misreporting of income, which is considered a severe issue. Here's when 50% and 200% fines apply.
Zero tax on 20 lakh CTC? How a smart car lease can cut your tax under the new regime
Smart salary structuring unlocks major tax savings on car leases under the new tax regime, showing how a 20 lakh CTC can significantly reduce taxable income and enhance take-home efficiency.
Your Cibil score could update faster. Here's what changed
RBI has mandated lenders to report credit data weekly instead of fortnightly to ensure more accurate and fresh credit scores. This shift enables faster loan approvals and quicker score recoveries for borrowers but also means defaults are detected much faster.
HDFC Mutual Fund: HDFC Bank and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings in March
Gold ETFs have rallied up to 61% since last Akshaya Tritiya, driven by geopolitical tensions, central bank buying, and safe-haven demand. Experts advise sticking to asset-allocation disciplinebooking profits only if gold exceeds target weights. While valuations look stretched, long-term investors may continue SIPs as structural drivers remain supportive.
7 mutual funds trim stakes in 20 midcaps. Heres how money moved in March
Twelve stocks signaled bullish momentum by moving above their 200-day moving averages, indicating strengthening trends and potential upside continuation.
Best aggressive hybrid mutual funds to invest in April 2026
Hybrid mutual funds, particularly aggressive hybrid schemes, offer resilience in volatile markets due to their equity and debt mix. These funds, mandated to invest 65-80% in stocks and 20-35% in debt, help conservative equity investors manage risk while aiming for wealth creation. Regular profit booking by fund managers can also enhance returns.
PPF vs ELSS vs NPS: Where does 5,000/month grow the most? 15-year returns compared
PPF, ELSS, and NPS are popular tax-saving investments, differing in structure, eligibility, and returns. Here's the best tax saving option.
Trump accounts explained: Eligibility, contribution limits, tax benefits for parents
Trump accounts explained: A new savings scheme, referred to as Trump accounts, is designed to help families start building wealth for children from birth. Here's how it works.
Investing in children's future is crucial for parents, with options like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, NPS Vatsalya Yojana, and PPF accounts. These plans help build savings for education and healthcare, offering tax benefits and high interest rates, ensuring financial stability.
Secure retirement planning can turn a 50 lakh retirement corpus into a balanced income engine. Here is how you can blend SCSS, mutual funds, equities and debt for inflation-beating, tax-efficient long-term financial stability.
Asset allocation involves distributing investments across various asset classes to manage risk and return. Common categories include fixed-income instruments, equities, and precious metals. Here's what investors should know.
6 reasons why first-time borrowers find it tough to maintain a healthy credit score
First-time borrowers often damage their credit score due to poor awareness, high utilisation and missed repayments, making disciplined financial planning essential for building a strong and sustainable credit profile.
Lumpsum vs SIP: What mutual fund investment will make you more money? Here's which to choose
SIPs and lumpsum are two approaches an investor can take when venturing into mutual funds. Here's a look at how both work, what are the benefits and which you should choose depending on your risk appetite and financial goals.
Bajaj Life rolls out Nifty 500 Low Volatility 50 Index Fund for ULIP investors: All you need to know
Bajaj Life Nifty 500 Low Volatility 50 Index Fund offers ULIP investors stable, long-term growth through a disciplined, low-volatility equity strategy.
