28 C 
Will interest on EPF balance earned till age 58 be tax-free after I stop work?
Interest accrued on the accumulated balance, post cessation of employment, the period when no contribution is made to the EPF, is taxable.
The night the glow faded: Inside the unprecedented silence of Morbi
The kilns that never sleep have finally gone dark. From the Strait of Hormuz to the heart of Gujarat, an energy chokehold has silenced Indias ceramic hub. Can Morbis fire survive a world with less gas?
Content cuts across formats for wider audiences, more value
IP owners are diversifying content formats, with Zee's shows streaming on Story TV and Marvel films available on audio platforms. This strategy minimizes production risks while enhancing audience engagement, as formats like audio fit seamlessly into daily routines and attract younger viewers.
West Asia conflict, crude oil prices to steer stock markets in holiday-shortened week: Analysts
Analysts flag global cues and foreign fund outflows as key triggers in a truncated week
Whats driving Indian brands away from celebrity-led advertising
From jewellery to beauty and FMCG, companies are tailoring endorsements and messaging to reflect shifting consumption patterns and economic realities.
Gold is heading for its worst week in over 40 years. Heres why
Gold widely viewed as a haven has dropped every week since the US and Israel attacked Iran last month
9 penny stocks surge up to 430% in 3 months; 2 turn multibaggers. Do you own any?
Nine penny stocks have delivered impressive gains ranging from 10% to 430%, including three multibaggers. These outperformers were identified using specific filters: a market capitalisation below Rs 1,000 crore, a share price under Rs 20, and a minimum trading volume of 5 lakh shares.
Indian stock markets ended Friday in positive territory. However, investors should brace for continued volatility. Key factors influencing market direction include escalating Middle East conflicts, fluctuating crude oil prices, foreign investor activity, and the Indian rupee's performance. Global economic signals will also play a crucial role in shaping market sentiment.
82 lakh crore mutual fund boom signals shift from FDs but are households over-equitising?
Monthly SIP inflows stood at 29,845 crore in February 2026, after crossing 31,000 crore in January. Total mutual fund assets are now about 82 lakh crore, with SIP assets alone at roughly 16.36 lakh crore. Nearly 9.92 crore SIP accounts are actively contributing.
Middle East crisis: Top mutual fund categories to protect your investments
Investors should stay conservative and look at categories such as short-duration funds, corporate bond funds with high-rated portfolios, banking and PSU debt funds, and gilt funds. These categories can add fixed returns and regular payouts while keeping credit risk lower.
Helium shortage fears rise after Iran strike hits Qatars key gas export hub
Helium, a byproduct of natural gas, is essential for semiconductor manufacturing, space technology and medical imaging.
Bank holidays next week, March 23-29: Banks across India will be closed for four days in the upcoming week, as per RBI's holiday list. Check full list here.
March madness: Why the markets panic misleads investors
A World Cup win, a war, oil at $119, drones over refineries, a bank chairmans exitand the month isnt even over. The market panic still belongs to borrowed-money investors, not you.
Centre scraps air fare cap as airline operations stabilize
The government had imposed air fare caps earlier to prevent an abnormal surge in ticket prices after IndiGo cancelled over 5,000 flights, when the new pilot rest norms strained capacity. With capacity being restored, the ministry said the extraordinary measure was no longer required
JPMorgan, Goldman offer hedge funds way to short private credit
The firms have assembled baskets of listed companies with exposure to the space, the people said, who requested not to be identified discussing bespoke product offerings
Bullion Cues: Gold futures & silver futures could slip more
But, a short-lived recovery is likely
F&O Tracker: Resistance holds in Nifty futures & Nifty Bank futures
Weak structure on the charts suggests continuation of the decline
Crude Check: Oil futures holds uptrend
Buy MCX crude futures on a dip
We expect the scrip to sustain the bullish trend but with a bout of volatility
US Market Outlook: More room to fall
The US benchmark indices are getting beaten down badly
We zoom in on the prospects of RIL, as also the prospects of three other stocks IEX, TCS and Tarsons Products
The benchmark indices have room to fall more from here before finding a bottom
Why SEBIs latest mutual fund move matters for redemptions
Policy-wise: SEBI formalises short-term fund borrowing, while keeping related costs away from investors
Diesel price hike of 22.43/litre, rolled back for fishermen in Gujarat
The Gujarat government said the prices hiked by BPCL has been withdrawn after a formal representation was made by state fisheries minister Jitu Vaghani to the Central government
Vivid Electromech to raise 131 crore via IPO on NSE Emerge
Proceeds will be used to set up a new manufacturing unit in Ambernath, repay debt, and meet working capital needs
D-Street Week Ahead: Bearish outlook deepens as Nifty slips below key supports
Markets ended the week marginally lower, with the Nifty breaching key support levels and slipping below moving averages. Rising volatility and oversold RSI indicate continued weakness. While some sectors like Energy and Pharma show relative strength, a cautious approach is advised until stabilization emerges.
Abu Dhabi Investment Portfolio: 6 stocks surge up to 110% in FY26, 3 fresh Q3 picks
Abu Dhabi Investment Authoritys India portfolio rose 7% in FY26, with six stocks delivering gains of up to 110%. However, performance remained uneven as several holdings declined sharply. The sovereign fund added three new stocks in Q3, highlighting selective positioning amid volatile market conditions and divergent stock performance.
India hits 1 billion tonne coal output again, boosts energy security
The government credits policy support, efficient execution and stakeholder coordination, aligning the achievement with its broader Viksit Bharat 2047 vision
Income Tax Rules 2026: Will there be changes in tax slabs from 1 April 2026? All FAQs answered
New Income Tax Rules, 2026: With the New Income Tax Rules 2026 being published by the government, buzz about a changed income tax slabs is in the air. Read on to find out if there will be any changes in the income tax slabs from 1 April, 2026.
Income tax refund still pending? Here's why it may be delayed and what happens next
The deadline for filing income tax returns for assessment year 2025-26 was extended to September 15, 2025. Many taxpayers are still waiting for refunds. Here's why it may be delayed and what happens next.
Indian stock markets closed higher Friday, boosted by IT, auto, and metal sectors, though banking stocks capped gains. Analysts express caution due to ongoing West Asian conflict, elevated oil prices, and persistent FII outflows. Nifty and Bank Nifty face resistance, with support levels identified. Auto and IT sectors show weakness, while specific stock recommendations are provided.
Indias weight-loss drug rush kicks off with generics 50-90% cheaper
Top drugmakers roll out cheaper semaglutide within a day of patent expiry, triggering a scramble for share in India's weight-loss and diabetes market.
India is right to act on offshore crypto platforms but it must also build a fairer market
A Financial Action Task Force report backs Indias concerns that the real risk in crypto lies in offshore, non-compliant virtual asset service providers (VASPs), not the asset class itself.
Iran says no floating crude or surplus available after US eases sanctions
Iran says US trying to reassure buyers, manage market sentiment
Rupee on shaky ground, touches fresh low of 93.73
The Indian rupee experienced its sharpest single-day fall since late 2022, plummeting to a historic low of 93.73 against the dollar. Surging oil prices, driven by escalating West Asian conflicts, coupled with overseas investor outflows, significantly pressured the currency.
Smallcaps shine! 10 stocks that delivered gains of up to 41% this week. How many do you have?
Despite weak broader markets and rising geopolitical tensions, select smallcap stocks delivered sharp gains this week, with some surging over 40%. The rally highlights pockets of strength in sectors like chemicals, energy, and industrials, even as inflation concerns and global uncertainties continue to weigh on overall market sentiment.
Explained: Why gold prices remain subdued despite West Asia tensions
Gold prices have unexpectedly fallen despite escalating geopolitical tensions, a departure from their safe-haven status. A strong U.S. dollar, rising Treasury yields, and profit-taking after a prior rally are suppressing bullion. While the near-term outlook is choppy, long-term prospects remain constructive due to persistent geopolitical risks and inflation concerns.
Amid global market volatility, NSE's Harish K Ahuja advises retail investors against panic selling, urging patience and a long-term perspective. He highlighted that India's market fundamentals remain strong with positive GDP growth and industrial indicators, despite short-term fluctuations. Ahuja emphasized that disciplined, patient investors are likely to be rewarded.
Global real estate investment is shifting. Geopolitical tensions are making investors cautious about Dubai. Capital is now flowing towards India's stable markets like Gurugram and Mumbai. Domestic demand is driving growth in India. Investors are prioritizing long-term fundamentals and quality assets. Dubai remains an option for rental income, but India is seen as a wealth creation hub.
IDBI, SpiceJet among 10 stocks that saw sharpest fall, down up to 21% this week. Do you own any?
Indian markets witnessed a broad-based sell-off amid escalating Middle East tensions and rising crude oil prices. Several stocks, including IDBI Bank and SpiceJet, declined sharply during the week. Geopolitical risks, inflation concerns, and regulatory developments weighed on investor sentiment, dragging multiple sectors lower despite selective resilience in parts of the market.
Bitcoin ranges between $69K-$70K amid defensive positioning, large holders keep buying
Bitcoin traded in a narrow range amid cautious derivatives positioning, even as large holders continued accumulating. Institutional inflows into ETFs and stable price action indicate a consolidation phase. Analysts expect a decisive move once macro conditions improve, with $70,000 emerging as a key level for confirming any sustained upward momentum.
Nikhil Advani of LGT Wealth India advises investors to prioritise resilience amid rising geopolitical risks and market volatility. He recommends global diversification, defensive sector allocation, and phased investing, while highlighting opportunities in infrastructure and AI. ETFs and multi-asset strategies can help manage risk and capture long-term growth across global markets effectively.
FPIs dump Rs 31,831 crore in financials as total outflows hit Rs 52,703 crore in a fortnight
Foreign portfolio investors pulled out Rs 52,703 crore from Indian equities in the first half of March, with financials bearing the brunt. Broad-based selling, rising crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions weighed on markets, while select inflows into capital goods and metals indicate continued interest in domestic capex and infrastructure themes.
ETMarkets Smart Talk | Balance portfolios, avoid midcap froth: Mirae Asset ShareKhans Somil Mehta
Mirae Asset ShareKhans Somil Mehta advises investors to stay disciplined amid rising volatility driven by global tensions and crude oil prices. He recommends balanced portfolios, a focus on large-cap and quality sectors, and avoiding overvalued mid- and small-cap stocks, while maintaining a long-term investment approach to navigate uncertain market conditions.
Dont panic on geopolitics; use bonds as dry powder to buy equities on dips: Jiraafs Saurav Ghosh
Saurav Ghosh of Jiraaf advises investors to stay calm amid geopolitical volatility and use bonds as a strategic buffer. He highlights short-duration fixed income as a stable allocation and suggests deploying capital into equities during corrections, while closely tracking oil prices, inflation, and volatility indicators to navigate uncertain market conditions effectively.
FPIs pull out 35,475 cr this week from Indian markets, March outflows hit 88,180 cr
The data showed that the highest selling during the week was recorded on Monday, with net outflows of 10,827 crore
Concurrent losers: 14 smallcap stocks decline for 5 consecutive sessions
Fourteen stocks from the BSE SmallCap index declined continuously over five trading sessions ending March 20, with losses of up to 23%. Despite the Sensex remaining largely flat, sharp volatility during the period highlights continued pressure in broader markets, particularly in smallcap stocks witnessing sustained selling across consecutive sessions.
US allows 30-day sale of Iran oil as prices cross $110 again. Will crude oil fall on Monday?
The US has allowed a temporary waiver on Iranian oil sales to ease surging crude prices amid escalating geopolitical tensions. However, analysts warn that supply disruptions and the Strait of Hormuz crisis could keep prices elevated, with forecasts suggesting oil may rise further despite short-term relief measures from policy actions.
Oil shocks, war jitters, market volatility: Why Guy Spiers investing tips matter today
Amid rising geopolitical tensions, oil price volatility and uncertain interest rate outlook, Guy Spiers value investing principles offer timely guidance. His focus on discipline, intrinsic value, long-term thinking and avoiding market noise highlights how investors can navigate turbulence and make rational decisions in increasingly volatile global financial markets.
How FDI can transform Indias gold and jewellery export ecosystem
To truly globalise, the sector must bridge the gap between traditional artistry and industrial scale
JPMorgan settles Sebi case, pays Rs 34 lakh
JP Morgan Chase Bank has agreed to pay 34 lakh rupees to Sebi following violations related to foreign portfolio investor laws. Their missteps include issuing FPI licenses to firms lacking proper UK registration and not accurately verifying the status of certain entities. Compounding these issues were significant delays in merger reporting, which further illuminated the compliance shortcomings.
Euro FX settlement in works at GIFT City
India's financial hub is looking to introduce real-time euro foreign-exchange settlements. This move aims to boost financial ties with the European Union as a trade deal progresses. The regulatory body, IFSCA, has requested government approval for euro settlements alongside the US dollar. This follows the successful implementation of real-time dollar settlements, which significantly reduced transaction times and risks.
Investors pull out $20.3 billion from global equity funds
In a dramatic shift, global equity funds experienced a staggering exit of billions as investors reacted to rising inflation fears and escalating tensions in the Middle East. This selloff marked the most significant retreat in three months, prompting major central banks to hint at tightening their monetary policies.
FPIs still in exit mode, dump record chunk of financial services
In a striking turn of events, early March witnessed foreign investors withdrawing an unprecedented sum from India's financial landscape. This wave of selling, spurred by mounting global economic unease, has had ripple effects on the Bank Nifty, while sectors such as automobiles and telecom also faced significant capital outflows. This trend underscores a growing wariness among international investors.
Rupee on shaky ground touches fresh low of 93.73
In a dramatic turn of events, the Indian Rupee plunged sharply in a single trading session, marking its most significant drop since late 2022. This decline was fueled by soaring oil prices amid growing tensions in West Asia, pushing the currency to a new record low.
Iran war: How to rebalance your portfolio and manage risk in volatile markets
Before making any changes to their portfolio, investors should evaluate their financial goals, risk appetite, return expectations, and current asset allocation. Any restructuring should be considered only after a thorough review of these factors.
Bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed on 21 March for Eid? All you need to know
Banks across several Indian cities will observe a holiday on March 21, 2026, for Eid-al-Fitr. The RBI calendar indicates 18 holidays in March, with operations varying by region due to local customs and festivals. Details here.
Middle-East crisis: Why G-Secs and AAA bonds may shield your portfolio in uncertain times
In uncertain environments, investors tend to move up the credit curve rather than down it. This means preference shifts towards issuers such as public sector undertakings, large financial institutions, and well capitalised corporates.
Kashmirs dry winter hits apple trade at the roots
Warm, rain-starved months delay planting across the Valley, leaving nurseries with unsold saplings and raising risks for future harvests.
Jewellery retailers expand into mens, kids categories to unlock new demand
India's organized jewellery giants are expanding into the underserved men's and kids segments to drive growth. While these categories currently represent a small slice of the market, rapid growth among younger consumers is reshaping traditional retail strategies.
JP Morgan Chase settles SEBI case over FPI rule violations
The case relates to improper classification, licensing lapses, and delays in acting on material changes
Oil jumps to highest settlement since July 2022 as more Mideast supply disrupted
Oil prices have surged to their highest in nearly four years. Iraq declared force majeure on oilfields. The U.S. is deploying more troops to the Middle East amid escalating Iran tensions. Attacks on energy infrastructure continue. The Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted. Analysts expect prices to stay elevated. Restoration of oil flows could take months.
Goldman Sachs, ICICI Pru MF buy DLF shares worth Rs 231 crore via block deals
Goldman Sachs and ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund acquired significant stakes in DLF Limited via block deals worth Rs 231 crore, even as the stock lags benchmarks and trades below key moving averages.
RBI moves to prevent banks from mis-selling financial products: How will it protect customers?
The RBI directions to banks include obtaining the customers explicit consent, ensuring product suitability for the customer before it is marketed, and giving a refund with compensation where mis-selling is established.
SBI Mutual Fund targets 13,000 crore IPO
SBI Fund Management aims for a valuation of around 1.3 lakh crore for the IPO, which would translate to a price-to-earnings ratio of approximately 51 time, said an analyst
First in Motilal Oswal AMC investing series: QGLP principles for disciplined investing
Ashish Kacholia bought shares worth Rs 9.3 crore in Aelea Commodities via a bulk deal as the stock trades below key averages after a sharp correction, with the seller fully exiting its stake.
Accenture lifts IT sentiment; AI-driven transformation gains traction
Nifty IT index closed at 29,199.60 on Friday, up 2.17 per cent, while shares of Indian IT firms gained across the board
Rupee vaults well past 93 per USD mark, sinks 108 paise
The last time the Rupee fell by more than 100 paise was on June 4, 2024
US stocks: Fed officials say Iran war obscuring economic, monetary policy outlook
Two Federal Reserve officials said on Friday the Iran war and its impact on energy markets were clouding the outlook for the economy and monetary policy, as one policymaker laid out an outlook calling for notably more interest rate cuts than most U.S. central bank officials currently support.
Government launches 20,000 crore credit guarantee scheme for microfinance institutions
The move comes after bank funding to MFIs dropped nearly 70% between FY24 and FY26, severely impacting smaller players
Norges Bank sells 0.6% stake in Zee Entertainment for 44.4 crore
The sovereign wealth fund had held a 3.99% stake in December
RBI to conduct Rs 1 lakh cr overnight variable rate repo auction on Mar 23
The Reserve Bank of India on Friday said it will conduct an overnight variable rate repo (VRR) auction of Rs 1 lakh crore on March 23.
Super Micro shares sank 27% on Friday after U.S. prosecutors charged three people linked with the company, including its co-founder, with helping smuggle billions of dollars worth of AI technology to China.
US Fed Governor Waller sounds alarm on inflation risk due to Iran war
US Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller on Friday said he was concerned about the impact of the US-Israel war on Iran on inflation due to the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
India calls for bidders to set up five rare earth magnet making plants under 7,280 cr scheme
India has launched a 7,280-crore incentive scheme to establish five rare-earth magnet manufacturing plants, aiming to achieve an annual capacity of 6,000 tonnes. The move seeks to build a self-reliant defence and electric vehicle supply chainto counter Chinas dominance in the sector.
India plans LPG imports from Russia, Japan with shipments starting mid-April
Weekly imports from the West Asia fell to 89,000 tonnes by March 19, the lowest since January, while alternative regional shipments rose to 176,000 tonnes
Zetwerk plans to confidentially file for IPO in 2 weeks: Sources
India's Zetwerk plans to confidentially file draft papers for an initial public offering within the next one to two weeks, aiming to raise up to $550 million at a valuation of about $4 billion, two people with direct knowledge said.
Aluminium prices recover as market weighs disruptions and weaker demand
Aluminium prices steadied on Friday as investors balanced the competing impacts of the Iran war and lower supply from disrupted operations in the Middle East against weaker demand from a spike in oil prices.
US stocks: Fed's Bowman says penciled in three rate cuts for year: Report
Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman said on Friday she's notably more in the way of interest rate cuts relative to her colleagues.
IFSCA issues 60 warnings in FY26 as capital market intermediaries breach compliance norms
These findings point to breaches of key provisions under the IFSCA Capital Market Intermediaries Regulations, 2025
As gold prices fall, Gudi Padwa and Ugadi boost jewellery sales in India
On Friday, gold prices fell further to 1,47,218 per 10 g against 1,47,889 on Thursday; in contrast, silver prices increased by 2,491 to 2,32,364 per kg against 2,29,873 on strong buying support
US stocks today: US stocks open lower as Middle East turmoil clouds Fed outlook
Wall Street's main indexes opened lower on Friday as the Iran war approached its fourth week, roiling energy markets and prompting investors to aggressively reprice bets on the Federal Reserve's interest-rate cuts.
Zerodha co-founder and CEO Nithin Kamath noted the country's dependence on energy imports from the Middle East, and consequent impact due to the war in the region. He also outlined an alternative that India can tap into for long-term resilience.
Exchanges, clearing corporations issue joint SOP for closing auction session
The SOP, aligned with regulatory directions, details how settlement prices will be computed under different trading scenarios, with a shift towards auction-driven price discovery at the close
India 10-year yield posts biggest weekly jump in 15 weeks on oil shock
India's benchmark 10-year bond yield logged its biggest weekly jump in 15 weeks on Friday, as surging oil prices sent the rupee plunging to record lows and stoked fears of inflation and hawkish central bank policy outlook.
Nifty stages modest rebound after Thursdays rout; Rupee hits fresh record low
Nifty 50 ended at 23,114.50, up 112.35 points or 0.49%, while the Sensex closed at 74,532.96, gaining 325.72 points or 0.44%; for the week, the Nifty ended marginally lower by 0.16%
RBI's bond purchases jump after Iran war
India's central bank has boosted its secondary-market government bond purchases significantly since the Iran war broke out, data showed on Friday.
Warren Buffett rejects market forecasting and instead focuses on identifying undervalued businesses. His philosophy emphasises fundamentals, rational thinking and intrinsic value, helping investors avoid emotional decisions. By ignoring short-term noise and trusting long-term value, investors can build wealth as markets eventually recognise a companys true worth.
