37 C 
Bank holiday today? Check if SBI, HDFC, ICICI are open or closed on 18 July RBI calendar here
Most public and private banks across India will remain open today, on Saturday, 18 July. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)'s holiday calendar, bank operations will continue as normal since it is the third Saturday of the month
Income-tax returns: Top 10 things first time taxpayers must keep in mind while filing ITR
Income-tax returns: Attention first time taxpayers! From required documents, to which forms to fill, and the deadline date here are the top 10 important things to keep in mind while filing your ITR.
EPF Withdrawal Rules: Pulling out your PF money? Heres when its taxable and how to keep it tax-free
Understanding these rules is essential, particularly if you are switching jobs, dealing with a financial emergency or planning to access your retirement savings before retirement.
The EPFO has discontinued UAN activation and new generation through the portal and shifted both services to the Umang app with Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (FAT) requirement. Here's how first-time users can complete activation
Sebi introduces standing instructions for SWP, STP in mutual funds in demat holdings
Sebi has allowed SWP and STP standing instructions for mutual fund units held in demat form, simplifying investing. The rollout will occur in two phases, with unit-based transactions by January 2027 and amount-based transactions by April 2027 through depositories.
8th Pay Commission ToR outlines salary, DA, pension and allowance changes: Check full list
8th Pay Commission: The official terms of reference (ToR) outline what central government employees and pensioners can expect from the 8th CPC's recommendations. From DA hike to revised salary structure, pension, allowances and other benefits Check full list of likely announcements here.
Probate of a Will in India confirms its validity and gives legal authority to the executor. Check and understand the process, documents required, court procedure, recent changes, and when probate can help prevent inheritance disputes.
Fresh SIP options in international mutual funds have narrowed sharply, with only Baroda BNP Paribas Aqua FoF accepting new investments after multiple fund houses halted inflows due to SEBIs overseas investment limits. Investors are exploring LRS, GIFT City and global ETFs as alternatives.
DA hike: If not July, when could the next Dearness Allowance increase come this year?
Dearness Allowance: Even if no DA hike is announced this month in July 2026, central government employees and pensioners could still see a second increase sometime in the second half of the year during the festive season.
AMFI simplifies mutual fund transmission process to make claim settlement easier for nominees
AMFI has simplified mutual fund transmission procedures for deceased unit holders. New measures consider address and name mismatches for smoother claims. Asset Management Companies will now rely on updated address details supported by documentation. A harmonized framework for name and signature discrepancies is also introduced. These updated guidelines are effective immediately for all member AMCs.
SBI, ICICI Prudential among 6 mutual funds to add 13 new smallcap stocks in June
Can a 2,000 monthly SIP really make you a crorepati? Lets do the maths
Investing just 2,000 every monthan amount many people spend on leisure activities or eating outcan potentially grow into a corpus of more than 1 crore.
Where are mutual funds placing their bets? A look at Junes sectoral trends
Mutual funds increased exposure to private banks, healthcare, NBFCs, automobiles and real estate in June, while trimming allocations to technology, oil & gas and utilities, according to a Motilal Oswal report.
The best-performing flexi cap fund returned 9.91% over the past year, while only five schemes crossed the 8% mark. Experts say the muted performance reflects market conditions, not poor fund management.
EPF Scheme 2026: New rules for exempted PF trusts, what employees must know
The Employees' Provident Funds Scheme, 2026 introduces an interest rate ceiling, mandatory digital compliance and stricter governance norms for exempted PF trusts run by eligible employers. Here's what the new rules mean for employees.
Hospitalized? 10 essential steps for hassle-free health insurance claim settlement
Health insurance claims can become stressful during emergencies. These 10 practical steps, from hospital admission to discharge, ensure faster cashless claim settlement, avoid delays, manage documents properly and reduce financial pressure, especially during emergencies.
PF after retirement: When does your EPF balance stop earning interest? EPFO rules explained
Retirement does not automatically stop interest on your EPF balance. Here's how long your provident fund continues to earn interest under the EPF Scheme, 2026, based on your retirement age.
Gold and silver prices today, 17 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.
The 8th Pay Commission is likely to revise salaries and allowances for nearly 1.1 crore central government employees and pensioners. While the fitment factor is yet to be finalised, estimates indicate how HRA for Level 14-16 employees could increase under different fitment scenarios.
Government may bring back UPI MDR for large merchants: Who could be affected?
The Centre is considering reintroducing a merchant discount rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. If approved, the levy is expected to apply only to large merchants and higher-value payments, while small businesses and consumers are likely to remain unaffected.
Don't overpay for growth: Nippon Life AMC's Sailesh Raj Bhan on navigating India's next market cycle
After two years of valuation-led consolidation, Nippon Life AMC's equity CIO Sailesh Raj Bhan says improving earnings, reasonable valuations and a strong macro backdrop are creating fresh opportunities for long-term investors.
Senior citizen FD rates: These banks offer up to 8.5% interest despite recent rate cuts
For senior citizens, even a marginal difference in interest rates can translate into substantially higher earnings over time, particularly on large deposits. Comparing FD rates across banks before investing can help maximise interest income without increasing investment risk.
Filing ITR alone is not enough, you have to e-verify your return within 30 days so that it does not become invalid and to ensure a smooth refund process from the tax department. Check here for the step-by-step taxpayers' guide
8th pay commission: We take a look at the likely revision in house rent allowance (HRA) for central government employees across levels 6 to 10 in X, Y and Z category cities based on various fitment factor suggestions.
The debt-free trap: Why shunning all forms of credit can actually stunt your financial growth
Before you vow to never borrow another rupee, here is a realistic look at how to make debt work for younot against you.
Ex-Microsoft employee walked away from 1.9 crore salary, shares challenges of starting over
Christian Harms, a former Microsoft employee, has opened up about leaving a corporate job that paid $200,000 (approximately 1.9 crore) a year in Switzerland to start over in Australia.
Dearness Allowance: Increase in basic salary component, 3-4% hike expected Why is DA important?
Dearness Allowance (DA) is a percentage of salary for central government employees and pensioners to offset inflation. Updated bi-annually, it rose from 58% to 60% in January 2026, benefiting 50 lakh employees and 65 lakh pensioners. Future hikes depend on AICPI data and government approval.
Can 50 lakh grow into 5 crore through mutual funds? Here's what a 15-year investment could deliver
Meeting such a high-value financial goal requires careful planning, patience and the right investment strategy.
Shriram AMC announces Refreshed Fund Opportunity for its three hybrid funds
Shriram AMC has refreshed the investment framework of three hybrid funds, introducing a research-driven, dynamic asset allocation strategy across equity, debt, gold and silver. The move aims to improve diversification, manage risk and support long-term wealth creation across market cycles.
ITR filing 2026: Beyond Form 16 avoid these costly income tax compliance mistakes
Salaried workers who have switched employers, selected a suboptimal tax regime, claimed unsupported deductions, or omitted capital gains face heightened financial risks.
Foreign assets are coming soon in AIS: Compliance is about to become harder to ignore
Information on foreign assets will increasingly show up in taxpayers' AIS, but the absence of an asset from the statement does not erase the legal obligation to disclose it.
Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said the EPFO has processed interest on provident funds of 34 crore members for FY26. Interest earned on EPF contributions is tax-exempt up to 1.5 lakh under Section 80C under the old tax regime.
Quant Mid Cap Fund exits Reliance Industries and 3 others, adds BHEL, 1 other stock in June
Quant Mid Cap Fund exited Reliance Industries and three other stocks in June while adding BHEL and L&T Technology Services to its portfolio, according to ACE MF data. The fund sold 21.38 lakh RIL shares worth Rs 282 crore and also exited PB Fintech, Torrent Pharmaceuticals and Oracle Financial Services Software (OFSS) during the month.
RBI fixes SGB 2019-20 Series II redemption price at 14,199. Should investors redeem now?
The Reserve Bank of India has fixed the premature redemption price for Sovereign Gold Bond 2019-20 Series II at 14,199 per gram. Investors who bought the bonds in 2019 have earned more than 300% in capital appreciation, but tax implications should also be factored into the decision.
SBI, Quant among 5 mutual funds that made complete exit from 11 midcap stocks in June
Five mutual funds exited 11 midcap stocks completely in June, including Tube Investments, Dixon Technologies, PB Fintech, and Kaynes Technology, as AMCs actively reshuffled portfolios, according to Nuvama.
What is a home loan top-up and when should you consider it?
A home loan top-up can offer cheaper credit than a personal loanbut only if you understand the costs, eligibility rules and hidden pitfalls.
The new Employees' Pension Scheme, 2026, retains the withdrawal benefit for members who leave service before completing 10 years. However, it introduces a new waiting period before the benefit can be claimed.
HDFC Flexi Cap among 7 mutual funds that multiplied investors' wealth up to 22x in 20 years
Seven equity mutual funds created exceptional long-term wealth, multiplying investors money up to 22.4 times over 20 years, led by Nippon India Growth Mid Cap Fund, according to FundsIndia.
Early exit: why Indians are surrendering life insurance policies before maturity
Why do millions of policyholders who signed up for a long-term contract exit before maturity?
ITR Filing 2026: Income Tax Department Introduces New Secondary Address Field
Taxpayers filing returns for AY 2026-27 will now have to provide both a primary and a secondary address. The new disclosure has been introduced in all notified ITR forms.
Mutual fund not performing? Here's how experts say you should review it
A fund that tops return charts today may not necessarily be the best fit for your portfolio. Experts say investors should look beyond recent performance and evaluate consistency, risk and investment strategy before making decisions.
NFO Insight: Can Abakkus Large & Mid Cap Fund help investors navigate volatile markets?
Abakkus Mutual Fund has launched its third equity NFO, the Abakkus Large & Mid Cap Fund. This new fund aims to navigate volatile markets by investing in growth companies and established businesses. The fund employs an in-house MEETS framework for evaluating long-term value creation potential. Experts suggest caution with NFOs due to the absence of a performance track record.
ITR filing: ITAT deletes 10 lakh Black Money Act penalty over foreign ESOP disclosure
Chennai ITAT held that a genuine failure to disclose foreign ESOPs in Schedule FA of the income tax return does not automatically warrant a penalty under the Black Money Act.
EPFO interest credit begins: How members can check if the amount is credited to their accounts
EPFO members can see their annual interest of 8.25% for FY2025-26 in their accounts starting July 15. Here's how you can check your PF balance online.
Property registry alone doesn't prove ownership: Here's what else homebuyers need to do
Purchasing and registering a property does not guarantee legal ownership. Validity relies on the entire title chain and documentation. Mutation, while important for records, does not affect ownership rights, experts said.
Trump's accounts sold Micron, bought Nvidia: Expert warns, Don't mistake it for a strategy
Donald Trump's investment accounts, managed by third parties, have executed over 6,100 stock trades in 2023. Notably, they sold Micron shares while acquiring Nvidia stock, highlighting a contradiction between Trump's public praise for Micron and his accounts' trading decisions.
EPFO alert: Why updating your profile photo is crucial for e-nominations and PF claims
EPFO members are urged to upload a recent profile photo on the Unified Member Portal to complete e-nominations and online claims. Here's why it matters and how to do it.
Gifting stocks to your spouse, child or friend? Check how the tax rules differ in three scenarios
Gifting stocks can trigger tax implications depending on the relationship between the donor and recipient. Transfers to close relatives are often tax-exempt, while gifts to others exceeding 50,000 are taxable.
How can families preserve art, jewellery and heirlooms for future generations?
A trust can help families preserve art, jewellery and heirlooms across generations by setting clear rules on ownership, access, conservation, display, monetization and succession.
Health insurance covers major hospitalisation costs, but many medical expenses, such as doctor consultations and medicines, are often paid out of pocket. Experts say financial preparedness and understanding policy coverage can help families avoid unexpected healthcare costs.
SIP returns disappointing? Here's when to stay invested and when to switch funds
Negative or muted SIP returns in the initial years are not uncommon, especially for equity mutual funds. Experts say investors should judge a fund over a full market cycle and switch only if there are signs of structural issues.
NRI tax filing: Moved abroad? Here's when you still need to file an ITR in India
Moving abroad does not end your tax obligations in India. From excess TDS and capital losses to property sales and future tax planning, here's when NRIs should file an ITR.
PFRDA launches NPS PRIDE-Disha: How the new tool helps you choose the right pension fund
NPS PRIDE-Disha lets subscribers compare pension funds using XIRR based on regular contributions instead of only point-to-point returns. The platform uses historical NAV data since 2008 to help investors make more informed fund selection and switching decisions.
NFO Alert: Sunil Singhania-led Abakkus Mutual Fund launches large & midcap fund
Abakkus Mutual Fund has launched the Abakkus Large & Mid Cap Fund, an open-ended equity scheme that will invest predominantly in large-cap and mid-cap companies. The NFO is open until July 29 and aims to generate long-term capital appreciation through a research-driven investment approach.
Automatic EPF transfer after job change? Avoid these 6 mistakes to prevent delays
EPFO has introduced automatic PF transfers for eligible members. However, the facility works only if certain conditions are met.
7 mutual funds made complete exit from 14 smallcap stocks in June. Check details
Seven mutual funds fully exited 14 smallcap stocks in June, including Ramco Systems, Gland Pharma and JM Financial, as fund managers reshuffled portfolios to actively manage investments and rebalance holdings.
Mutual funds pour nearly Rs 500 crore across 6 IPOs in June. Check details
RIL, HDFC Bank, SBI among JioBlackRock Mutual Fund's top 10 stock holdings in June
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund's equity portfolio was led by banking majors HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank in June, with Bharti Airtel, Reliance Industries, Larsen & Toubro and Infosys also featuring among its top holdings. The fund house, which managed assets worth Rs 16,614 crore at the end of the month, maintained a diversified portfolio across financials, telecom, technology, industrials and metals, according to Prime Database data.
Mutual funds invested Rs 50,600 crore in stocks during June. They significantly bought JSWInfra, Bajaj Finance, and HDFC Bank. Conversely, Asian Paints, ICICI Bank, and SBI saw major reductions. In midcaps, JSW Infrastructure and Meesho were key additions by funds. Smallcap segment saw buying in Acme Solar Holdings and Craftsman Auto.
Sensex down 9.37% in 2026: Should investors wait or stay invested? Here's what history shows
The Sensex has fallen 9.37% so far in 2026, reviving concerns over whether investors should wait for markets to recover. Four decades of historical data offer insight into how Indian equities have behaved during major corrections.
After analysing the list of large-cap funds, no fund was found to have touched a Sharpe ratio of 1. Among the large-cap funds, WhiteOak Capital Large Cap Fund recorded the highest Sharpe ratio at 0.64.
Mutual funds cut cash allocation by over Rs 4,500 crore in June to 19-month low
Mutual funds cut cash holdings by over Rs 4,563 crore to Rs 1.83 lakh crore in June, marking a 19-month low, as fund houses increased equity exposure amid a market rally. The move came as geopolitical tensions eased and crude oil prices declined. The Sensex and Nifty50 gained 2.98% and 2.06%, respectively, during June 2026.
A June 2026 report by Planera found that replacing workers in professions such as nursing, construction and home care with AI and robots would cost employers several times as much as paying wages to human workers.
Income Tax: Can a third-party document alone lead to a tax demand? ITAT says no
A Delhi ITAT ruling has clarified that the Income Tax Department cannot make tax additions solely on the basis of a loose sheet recovered during a search on another person. The department must back such claims with independent evidence proving the alleged transaction actually took place.
Mutual funds have reduced their technology sector allocation to 5.9 per cent. This marks an all-time low, reflecting investor caution and profit booking. Experts suggest this decline may present a long-term buying opportunity for investors. However, near-term volatility is expected due to global spending concerns. Diversified equity funds are recommended over concentrated sector bets.
Why disclosure alone cannot prevent the next corporate fraud
Corporate frauds continue to emerge despite tighter disclosure norms. The real challenge is not the quantity of information, but whether it reflects economic reality and is effectively verified.
Filing ITR with crypto investments: Common reporting mistakes that could trigger tax scrutiny
Crypto investors should avoid common ITR filing mistakes such as assuming the 1% TDS is the final tax, skipping transaction reporting, using the wrong ITR schedule, incorrectly calculating gains and failing to reconcile TDS with Form 26AS and AIS.
Best value funds to invest in July 2026
Value investing has dominated the Indian stock market recently, offering strong returns. Mutual funds following this strategy have outperformed growth-oriented funds significantly. Value investors seek stocks trading below their intrinsic worth for long-term gains. Patience is crucial as market discovery of these undervalued stocks can take time. Investors should limit value fund allocations to a maximum of twenty percent.
EPFO VISHWAS 2026 explained: Who is eligible for lower PF penalties? All FAQs answered
EPFO's VISHWAS 2026 scheme allows eligible employers to settle pending PF damages disputes at concessional rates. Check who can apply, lower penalty rates, eligibility conditions and the six-month deadline.
Paid taxes abroad? Here's how Form 67 helps claim foreign tax credit in India
Foreign Tax Credit allows Indian residents to reduce their tax liability in India by claiming credit for taxes already paid in another country. The Income Tax Department allows eligible resident taxpayers to claim a Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) by filing Form 67 along with the supporting documents.
Mutual fund flows decoded: Why AMFI's monthly data matters for investors
Mutual fund flows show investor sentiment and money movement across categories. Consistent inflows suggest investor confidence, while outflows may signal caution. Equity fund inflows indicate more money allocated to stocks, but do not guarantee market rises. Fund flows help gauge market liquidity, not as direct buy or sell signals. Company fundamentals and other factors ultimately drive long-term investment returns.
Taxpayers who falsely claim deductions to reduce tax liabilities could face severe penalties, prosecution, or imprisonment. Here are the consequences if a taxpayer is found guilty.
EPFO automates PF transfer after job switch Does it benefit private or exempted PF trust members?
EPFO simplifies the provident fund transfer process for Aadhaar-linked and KYC-compliant UAN holders by automating it, reducing paperwork. Here's whether private trust-managed funds will benefit from this new feature or not.
Annapurna Yojana: Haven't you received your payment yet? 8 reasons why
The first funds of the Annapurna Yojana were credited to nearly 1.1 crore beneficiaries. West Bengal's Chief Minister reported 1.6 crore applications were received, with 26 lakh rejected for various reasons.
Same trip, same loss: why was one insurance claim rejected?
In situations where two insured individuals are affected by the same insured event but receive contradictory decisions, it is reasonable to seek clarification based on such differential treatment. An insurer should be able to explain why identical facts have resulted in different outcomes.
NFO Update: Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund launches a services fund
Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund has launched the Baroda BNP Paribas Services Fund, an open-ended thematic equity scheme that aims to capitalise on India's fast-growing services economy. The NFO is open until July 28.
NFO Alert: The Wealth Company Mutual Fund announces launch of midcap fund
The Wealth Company Mutual Fund has launched a new midcap equity scheme. This open-ended fund will invest predominantly in midcap stocks. The new fund offer opens for subscription on July fifteenth and closes on July 29. It aims to provide access to established businesses with growth potential. The fund seeks long-term capital appreciation for investors.
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund among 10 equity funds that received over Rs 1,900 crore inflows in June
HDFC Flexi Cap Fund, Nippon India Small Cap Fund and Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund were among the 10 equity mutual funds that attracted over Rs 1,900 crore each in net inflows during June, highlighting sustained investor appetite.
UPI vs Credit Cards: Experts explain how to choose right payment method for everyday spending
UPI and credit cards each offer unique advantages for everyday payments. Here are the key differences, benefits, rewards, credit score impact, and practical tips for choosing the right payment method for daily spending, budgeting and long-term financial planning in India.
EPS Scheme 2026: 5 key pension benefits for a family every EPF subscriber should know
The Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) offers financial security to an employee's family through widow pension, child pension, nominee pension and dependent parent pension.
Only 1 international mutual fund remains open for fresh SIPs and lumpsum investments
Starting a new SIP in international mutual funds has become difficult, with Baroda BNP Paribas Aqua FoF now the only scheme accepting fresh registrations after 11 funds halted new SIPs. The restrictions stem from SEBIs overseas investment limits, which have constrained fund houses ability to accept fresh inflows. Existing SIPs continue as per original mandates, offering limited options for global diversification.
Got a salary hike? Here's what to check before raising your SIP amount
A salary hike is a good opportunity to increase SIP amount, but investors should first review their financial goals, emergency fund and asset allocation. A disciplined annual SIP step-up of 1015% can significantly boost long-term wealth creation.
Check how to apply for a Baal Aadhaar card in 2026, documents required, eligibility, mandatory biometric updates at ages five and 15, enrolment process, and key UIDAI rules.
The quiet edge: saving more trumps the exciting habit of investing better
Work out how much you can save, push that figure a little higher than is comfortable, and only then spend energy on choosing the funds. Simplicity is not a compromise but the whole point. Save a lot, keep the deployment sensible and dull, and let time do the rest, says Dhirendra Kumar.
Gold allocation rule: Divide your age by 2 to know how much gold to hold in your portfolio
A simple rule of thumb is to divide your age by two to determine the percentage of your portfolio that should be invested in gold. Under this rule, a 30-year-old investor would hold 15% in gold, while someone aged 50 would allocate roughly 25% to the precious metal.
Capitalmind Flexi Cap Fund completely exited 10 stocks, including Vedanta Power and Vedanta Iron and Steel, in June while adding seven new names such as JSW Steel, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, and Zydus Lifesciences. The fund increased exposure to five stocks and made no reductions elsewhere. It held 35 stocks across 13 sectors at the end of June.
Why investors are shifting to tier-II cities for higher commercial real estate returns
As soaring office rents and land prices push companies beyond India's biggest metros, investors are finding stronger yieldsand new risksin emerging commercial hubs such as Jaipur, Coimbatore and Ahmedabad.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced that a new and improved IRCTC website will be launched by 15 July. The upgraded portal is expected to deliver faster ticket booking, smoother navigation and several new passenger-friendly features.
Debt mutual funds saw Rs 1.09 lakh crore in June outflows, driven largely by seasonal corporate treasury and advance tax-related redemptions, not weakening investor sentiment.
Quant Small Cap Fund achieved over 30% CAGR in seven years. This fund outperformed its benchmark and category averages consistently. Experts attribute its success to active management and timely sector shifts. Investors should align SIPs with long-term goals and asset allocation. Moderate SIPs are advised given current smallcap valuations.
