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Thinking of stopping your SIP? Why market volatility says dont
Falling markets and negative returns are testing investor discipline, but the math of rupee cost averaging favours staying invested.
Digital arrest scam exposes how fraudsters use fear and fake authority to steal money, highlighting key warning signs and essential safety steps to protect finances from cybercrime threats.
Sebi moves to review MF distributor framework
Sebi has formed a working group to review mutual fund distributor regulations and address overlaps with investment advisers. The regulator is also developing a common advertisement code and a digital platform, Sebi Setu, for investment advisers. A standardized penalty structure and simplified NISM module are also planned, amidst concerns over a decline in registered investment advisers.
Investors turn to passive funds as active funds lag
Active equity mutual funds have failed to beat their benchmark indices over the past year. This underperformance has revived the debate on shifting investments to low-cost passive funds. Large-cap, flexi-cap, multicap, midcap, and smallcap funds all lagged their respective benchmarks. Despite this, wealth managers advise against completely abandoning active funds.
Joint income tax return? This Rajya Sabha MP has a fix for couples paying higher taxes
Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has proposed the provision of joint income tax returns for married couples to provide equitable relief for single-income households, similar to systems in developed countries.
Sebi has set up a working group to review regulations for mutual fund distributors and investment advisers, address overlaps, curb unregulated finfluencers, and strengthen compliance, transparency, and investor protection in Indias advisory ecosystem.
The advance tax payment deadline was on 15 March. Taxpayers can check your payment status online, check and download your payment challan and make corrections. Here's where and how
GAIL among 10 energy stocks that hit 52-week lows; slip up to 18% in a month
Sensex's 1,800 point intraday surge powered by fantastic four: HDFC Bank, RIL, SBI and ICICI Bank
Indian stock markets experienced a strong rebound today. The Sensex surged over 900 points, while the Nifty also saw significant gains. This recovery was largely driven by major banking and financial stocks. Experts suggest this was a short-covering rally after a sharp correction. While markets showed resilience, volatility remains a concern. Investors are watching key levels for future direction.
REC declares Rs 3.20/share dividend. Check record date, dividend yield
REC Limited announced a fourth interim dividend of Rs 3.20 per share, with the record date set for March 20. The dividend will be paid on or before April 14. This marks the companys 45th dividend since 2008, with a 12-month equity payout of Rs 20 per share.
Sensex ends 3-day losing streak, settles 939 pts higher, Nifty above 23,400
Indian stock markets rebounded sharply on Monday, snapping a three-session losing streak with Sensex and Nifty closing significantly higher. Despite volatile trading, value-buying emerged after last week's selloff. Geopolitical tensions and persistent FII selling continue to influence market sentiment, while the rupee remains near all-time lows.
Paytm shares jumps 4% after rival PhonePe halts IPO plans
Paytm shares jumped on Monday after rival PhonePe paused its IPO plans, easing near-term competition in digital payments. PhonePe cited geopolitical uncertainty and volatile global markets for deferring its listing. The move reflects broader market caution, with fintech firms reevaluating IPO timing and valuations amid heightened investor uncertainty and equity market volatility.
SIP contributions continued to grow despite market volatility, reflecting sustained retail investor confidence. Contributions rose 14.79% year-on-year to Rs 29,845 crore in February 2026, according to ICRA Analytics, although inflows dipped slightly from January. SIP accounts and assets under management remained robust despite mark-to-market corrections in equity markets.
Tax harvesting can save moneybut it can also derail your portfolio
As investors rush to optimize taxes before the financial year ends, experts warn that tax harvesting can trigger poor portfolio decisions and behavioural mistakes that undermine long-term returns.
Fino Payments Bank shares crash 19% on report of possible ED probe; lender clarifies
Fino Payments Bank shares tumbled over 19% to a record low after a report said some online gaming transactions linked to the lender may attract scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate. The bank later clarified it is not under any ED investigation and is cooperating with DGGI Hyderabad in an ongoing GST-related probe.
Is gold still a safe haven amid West Asia tensions? 5 mutual fund experts weigh in
13 equity mutual funds saw inflows of over Rs 1,000 crore in February. Check details
2008 global crash to 2020 COVID: How Nifty 50 plunged up to 59% in crises but rebounded
Despite recent volatility triggered by geopolitical tensions, India's Nifty 50 has historically demonstrated resilience, recovering from major global crises like the dot-com bubble, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 crash. The benchmark index has consistently bounced back, proving that losses are temporary for long-term investors.
Bandhan Bank shares plunge 12% as promoter explores stake sale for long-term investor exits
Bandhan Bank shares fell sharply after ET reported that Bandhan Financial Services is exploring long-term investor exits. Options under consideration include selling stakes to private equity or an IPO. The move aligns with regulatory mandates to reduce promoter stake and comes amid mixed quarterly performance.
Cipla Share Price Live Updates: Cipla Stock Price History
NTPC Share Price Live Updates: NTPC's performance shines with 5.91% return
Bajaj Finance Share Price Highlights: Bajaj Finance Stock Price History
Nestle India Share Price Live Updates: Nestle India Stock Price History
A 38 lakh hospital billand the top-up claim that took months
Top-up policies are a cost-effective way to boost health insurance cover, but deductibles, paperwork and insurer coordination can complicate claims.
Britannia Share Price Live Updates: Britannia Stock Price History
Asian Paints Share Price Live Updates: Asian Paints Stock Price History
ONGC Share Price Highlights: ONGC Stock Price History
Axis Bank Share Price Live Updates: Axis Bank Stock Price History
ITC Share Price Highlights: ITC Stock Price History
Sectoral and thematic mutual funds experienced an 187% surge in February inflows, reaching Rs 2,987 crore. Experts attribute this jump to new fund launches and opportunistic investments in select sectors with attractive valuations, rather than a broad-based demand increase. Year-on-year data, however, shows a significant decline, indicating moderate overall participation.
Sensex down 8K pts in 1 month. Experts recommend flexicap, multi asset funds & continuing SIPs
Indian stock markets, including BSE Sensex and Nifty, have seen significant declines. Experts advise investors to maintain discipline by continuing Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). They suggest focusing on established equity funds and diversifying with large-cap, flexi-cap, and multi-asset allocation funds. Gold and silver funds can also offer diversification. Investors should avoid short-term market predictions and focus on long-term goals.
Best focused mutual funds to invest in March 2026
According to Sebi norms, focused equity mutual fund schemes must invest in a portfolio of maximum 30 stocks. These schemes have no other restrictions when it comes to investing- like flexi cap schemes they can invest in any market capitalisations and sectors.
Fund managers bet on metals, power amid geopolitical turmoil
Amidst geopolitical tensions and AI disruption fears, fund managers strategically invested in metals, energy, and power stocks. Hindalco and Nalco saw buying interest due to their integrated mining operations, while demand for aluminium in data centers and EVs is anticipated.
I bought an apartment in 2013 but registered it only in 2025. What is the year of acquisition?
If you had entered into an agreement with the builder in 2013 and the registration was undertaken only in August 2025, the date of acquisition would be the date of the agreement, i.e. 2013, and not the date of registration.
Can I use MF sales proceeds to pay home loan and get Section 54F benefit?
Section 54F exemption is unavailable because the residential property was acquired more than one year before the sale of the MF units. While the exemption fails the timing criteria, taxpayers can still use Section 80C and Section 24 deductions for principal, interest repayments under old tax regime.
Advance tax deadline today: Can you pay the final instalment on 15 March via credit card?
The final advance tax payment deadline for FY 2025-26 is 15 March 2026. Payments can be made via the e-filing portal, including credit cards, which may incur fees. Details here.
Mutual fund NFOs: 2 ETFs will open for subscription now on Monday. Check details
Two new passive funds, a commodity-based ETF and a mid-cap ETF, are opening for subscription on Monday. The HSBC Gold ETF closes on March 18, and the SBI Nifty Midcap 150 ETF closes on March 24, both with a minimum investment of Rs 5,000. Investors are advised to choose funds based on their individual risk profiles and financial goals.
How global reporting may pull crypto bets out of the grey zone
Through a series of legislative changes in 2025 and 2026, India has operationalized a reporting framework aligned with the OECDs Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework, aiming to move crypto from an opaque asset class into a transparent financial instrument.
SBI Mutual Fund: RIL, Infosys, and ICICI Bank among top 10 stock holdings in February
BI Mutual Fund, managing Rs 12.92 lakh crore, revealed its top stock holdings for February. The fund house heavily invested in banking giants like HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, while also holding significant stakes in Reliance Industries and State Bank of India.
Gold investment taxation explained: Jewellery, gold ETF vs sovereign gold bonds
The investments in gold products of this category are treated as capital asset under the income tax laws so any gains realised over its acquisition cost is taxed under the head capital gains.
The Netherlands new tax experimentand why investors should worry
The Netherlands plans to tax unrealized investment gains from 2028. Indias experience with punitive wealth and income taxes in the 1970s shows why taxing paper wealth can distort markets and behaviour.
Advance tax deadline today news LIVE: Final instalment to be paid on 15 March check details
Advance Tax Deadline News Today LIVE: The due date for paying the fourth and final instalment for the financial year 202526 is on Sunday, 15 March 2026. Check who needs to pay, how to pay online, among other details.
CA Nithin Kaushik warns that the obsession with looking rich and faking wealth is the fastest way to stay broke. Feels real financial independence and power allows you freedom to say no. He explains
PSU mutual funds defy market slump in 2026 with strong three- and five-year returns
Mutual Funds, which deploy money exclusively in shares of PSUs, are among the only three equity fund categories that have given positive returns so far in 2026.
The Public Provident Fund is a low-risk savings scheme with a fixed interest rate of 7.1%, suitable for retirement planning and tax benefits. Here's how you can withdraw your funds before the lock-in period ends
Quant Small Cap Fund : HDFC Bank and Jio Financial Services among stocks bought and sold in February
Quant Small Cap Fund added HDFC Bank and others, trimmed Jio Financial, and exited Stanley Lifestyles in February.
Mutual funds reduce investments in IT stocks in February, weight slips to 8 year low
Mutual funds reduced exposure to IT stocks in February, with the sectors weight in portfolios falling to an eight-year low of 6.9%, according to a Motilal Oswal report. The decline follows a sharp fall in tech stock values, even as some fund houses selectively increased holdings in key companies like Infosys and TCS.
Volatility is a feature of equity markets, not a bug: Radhika Gupta urges new investors to stay calm
Radhika Gupta urged new investors to stay calm during market swings, saying volatility is a natural feature of equity investing. Citing past geopolitical events, she noted markets typically fall during crises but recover over time, advising investors to avoid panic decisions and continue SIPs for long-term wealth creation.
How to merge multiple PF accounts after switching jobs: Step-by-step guide
Switching jobs often results in multiple EPF accounts under the same UAN. Employees must request EPFO to merge these accounts to ensure all retirement savings are consolidated. Here's how to do it online.
Vijay, a 43-year-old IT professional, noticed his mutual fund portfolio fall Rs 1.5 lakh in 12 days, raising concerns about regular versus direct plans. Experts say short-term declines are driven by market volatility and geopolitical tensions, not plan type, and advise diversification, disciplined rebalancing, and a long-term investment approach.
SEBI introduces Life Cycle Funds: How will they help in building your retirement portfolio
An individual can choose a life cycle fund that aligns with their financial goal date. The fund has a diversified portfolio, starts with a higher equity allocation, and follows a glide path towards maturity.
Retirement planning can benefit from PPF, EPF, and VPF, which offer high interest rates and tax exemptions. PPF provides guaranteed returns at 7.1%, while EPF and VPF have 8.25%. Contributions to these schemes are eligible for tax benefits under Section 80C.
Will the new Income Tax Act be better for salaried taxpayers? Experts weigh in
The new Income Tax Act will come into force from 1 April 2026. Experts suggest that the new rules will be beneficial to salaried employees who opt for the old tax regime, as they will be able to claim higher exemptions and deductions.
Sebi sets new conditions for intraday borrowing by mutual funds from April 1
Capital markets regulator Sebi introduced a framework allowing mutual funds to use intraday borrowing to manage temporary liquidity mismatches. Effective April 1, the rules cap borrowing to same-day receivables, restrict usage purposes, mandate board-approved policies, and ensure asset management companies bear related costs and risks.
Retired and worried about volatile market? Heres how to withdraw without running out of money
With the three-bucket retirement strategy, you can meet your regular monthly expenses, keep a cushion for the medium term, and grow your wealth in the long-term. The buckets provide flexibility to adjust funds within each bucket and offer complete control.
Domestic vs global investors: How silver ETF bets played out differently in 400% rally
A Vallum Capital report shows that domestic and global investors followed sharply different strategies during the recent silver rally. While global institutional investors largely sold during the surge and bought during corrections, Indian retail investors increased buying near the peak and exited during declines, highlighting behavioural differences and timing gaps in ETF investing.
Volatile markets: How to shield your retirement fund and ensure regular monthly withdrawals
With the three-bucket retirement strategy, you can meet your regular monthly expenses, keep a cushion for the medium term, and grow your wealth in the long-term. The buckets provide flexibility to adjust funds within each bucket and offer complete control.
The final advance tax payment for FY 202526 is due on 15 March. Taxpayers must estimate their income and pay in four instalments to avoid interest charges. Heres your complete guide to clearing dues online.
Which sectors attracted mutual fund interest in February? Check details
HDFC Defence Fund exits this large cap stock that went up by 400% in 5 years
The HDFC Defence Fund has sold its entire stake in Cummins India, a large-cap stock that saw substantial growth. The fund has also adjusted its holdings in other companies, increasing its investment in Bosch, Eicher Motors, and Hindustan Aeronautics. This strategic move reflects the fund's active management within the defence sector, aiming for continued capital appreciation for investors.
These 7 equity mutual funds multiplied investors wealth up to 21 times in two decades
Equity mutual funds saw a significant surge in inflows during February, with large, mid, and small-cap categories experiencing notable increases. This rise, driven by lower redemptions, suggests a potential return of investor confidence in equities, though experts advise against chasing trends and emphasize aligning investments with personal risk profiles and long-term goals.
Gold and silver ETFs saw a dip on Friday. This decline occurred as surging energy prices lowered expectations for early U.S. interest rate cuts. Higher oil prices fueled inflation concerns, creating uncertainty about the Federal Reserve's rate cut plans. This situation has somewhat diminished gold's safe-haven appeal. Experts advise investors to buy on dips and hold for long-term diversification.
Hindustan Unilever Share Price Live Updates: Closure of Trading Window
Multi-asset funds are having a moment. This fund manager explains why
Multi-asset allocation funds are rapidly gaining traction among investors. Deepak Shenoy, CEO of Capitalmind AMC, sheds light on how these funds provide a balanced portfolio and if these funds are the right choice for your investment strategy
Income + Arbitrage FoFs gain ground in choppy market
Investors are flocking to income plus arbitrage fund of funds, a hybrid product offering safety and tax efficiency, as equity market returns falter. This category, which blends fixed income with equity arbitrage, has seen significant asset growth.
Investing money gifted by spouse in mutual funds? Heres how taxation works
Income from assets gifted by a spouseinterest, dividends, or capital gainsis generally clubbed with the donors income, except for reinvested earnings, which are taxable in the recipients hands.
Advance tax final instalment deadline: Who must pay and what happens if you miss 15 March due date?
The final instalment of advance tax payment deadline for the financial year 2025-26 is March 15, 2026. Here's who much pay the tax and the penalty for missing the due date.
Income Tax: 7 major tax changes taking effect from 1 April explained
Income Tax: The Union Budget 2026 introduces amendments to the Income Tax Act that simplify compliance for taxpayers. Here is a list of crucial changes for Indian taxpayers.
Planning to take global exposure? Check these ETFs which deliver upto 246% return in 1 year
Furniture rentals are booming. Heres when renting worksand when it doesnt
Renting furniture and appliances is gaining popularity among urban professionals seeking flexibility and lower upfront costsbut hidden charges and long tenures can make buying the smarter financial choice.
JioBlackRock Flexi Cap Fund adds Swiggy, Gujarat Gas; exits Mahanagar Gas and 18 others
JioBlackRock Flexi Cap Fund added Swiggy, Gujarat Gas, and 10 other stocks to its portfolio in February, according to data released by ACE MF. During the same period, the fund completely exited Mahanagar Gas and 18 other stocks.
SIFs explained: Where these new funds fit in an investors portfolio
SIFs sit between mutual funds and PMS, offering advanced strategies like longshort equity and derivatives exposurebut investors must understand the risks before allocating capital.
Looking for midcap mutual funds? Here are top 5 funds to invest in March 2026
ETMutualFunds has identified five mid cap mutual funds based on rolling returns, consistency, downside risk and asset size. The shortlisted schemes include Axis Midcap Fund, PGIM India Midcap Opportunities Fund, Invesco India Midcap Fund, Kotak Midcap Fund and Tata Mid Cap Fund for investors considering mid cap exposure.
AlphaGrep receives final nod from SEBI to launch mutual fund
AlphaGrep has received final approval from SEBI to launch its mutual fund business in India. The quant focused investment firm plans to introduce systematic equity and hybrid funds through upcoming NFOs. The move marks AlphaGreps entry into the retail asset management space after over 16 years in quantitative trading.
Best tax saving mutual funds or ELSS to invest in March 2026
Tax -saving mutual funds or Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSSs) helps you to save income tax under Section 80C of the IT Act. You can invest a maximum of Rs 1.5 lakh in ELSSs and claim tax deductions on your investments every financial year. Are you interested?
When war creates panic, smart investors look for opportunities
When conflict rattles markets, fear dominates, but smart investors see beyond the headlines.
Silver ETFs see first outflows in 26 months. Profit booking or a cautious approach?
Silver ETFs saw significant outflows in February, reversing January's record inflows. Experts suggest this is due to profit booking and caution after a sharp price rally and subsequent correction. Investors are advised to maintain long-term asset allocation rather than reacting to short-term movements. The market anticipates continued volatility but a supportive long-term outlook for silver.
Nitin Kaushik warns that outdated retirement plans fail to address rising healthcare costs and longevity. He suggests that individuals must prepare for a minimum corpus of 300 times monthly expenses by 2026 to avoid financial crises in retirement.
Mutual fund NFOs: 22 funds mobilise Rs 5,357 crore in February, SBI Quality Fund contributes maximum
February saw 22 new mutual fund launches, including 21 open-ended and one close-ended scheme, raising over 5,300 crore. Sectoral funds dominated collections, led by SBI Quality Fund. Other launches included index funds, ETFs, debt, large-cap, mid-cap, and balanced advantage funds.
EPF members may soon withdraw funds directly through UPI, with a target rollout by April 2026. Additionally, a pilot project will automatically settle claims for small inoperative accounts, simplifying the withdrawal process and helping members access long-unclaimed funds more quickly.
Can you revoke a gift? What senior citizens and heirs need to know.
While a registered gift may seem final, Indian courts are increasingly using maintenance laws to strip away property from heirs who fail to care for their elderly parents.
These 10 equity mutual funds receive inflows in February. Check key details
These 10 equity mutual funds received inflows in February. Equity mutual funds received total inflows of Rs 25,977 crore in February compared to an inflow of Rs 24,028 crore in January.
The mutual fund SIP stoppage ratio rose marginally to 75.62% in February from 74.83% in January, even as the number of discontinued SIPs declined. Monthly SIP inflows slipped to Rs 29,845 crore due to the shorter month, while new registrations remained strong, reflecting sustained investor participation in systematic investing.
Can SIPs and NPS together help an investor build Rs 25 crore in 18 years?
A 45-year-old government employee investing through SIPs and NPS could accumulate around Rs 25 crore in 18 years, according to Optima Money Managers Pankaj Mathpal. While mutual funds may generate nearly Rs 20 crore, NPS could add Rs 5 crore, potentially exceeding the investors Rs 15 crore retirement target.
Parag Parikh Large Cap Fund: RIL, HDFC Bank, and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings
Oil shock, market jitters: What West Asia tensions mean for investors
Oil spikes, FII selling and geopolitical tensions have shaken markets and retail portfolios. Experts say investors should stay disciplined, deploy cash gradually and rebalance portfolios if allocations have drifted.
Multi-asset allocation fund inflows dropped 19% to Rs 8,476 crore in February, potentially due to profit booking and reallocation to pure equity funds. Experts suggest this moderation is natural after strong commodity rallies and doesn't signal a structural shift, with the category remaining stable overall.
Global ETF premiums soar. Should investors wait or buy?
Global equity schemes allow investors to tap opportunities across markets worldwide. Strong demand has pushed international ETFs to trade at a premium to domestic ETFs. Should Indian investors still buy in?
Sunil Singhania-backed Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund raises stake in HDFC Bank, RIL and 26 other stocks
Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund, backed by Sunil Singhania, increased its holdings in HDFC Bank, Reliance Industries (RIL) and 26 other stocks in February 2026. The fund added the most shares in Bank of Baroda and expanded its portfolio to 44 stocks across 22 sectors.
