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10 smart money moves to protect & grow wealth in 2026
From global diversification to large-cap focus, NPS upgrades to AI adoption heres how to protect your wealth and grow richer in the New Year.
Credit demand & lower cost to boost banks profits
Lower funding costs, loan growth momentum, and robust fundamentals to propel banking sector stocks.
The big gap between what the fund earns & what you get
Investors need to treat their SIPs as genuinely non-negotiable commitments. They need to stop watching their portfolios frequently because every look creates an opportunity for destructive action. Data suggests that the investors who started SIPs a decade ago and forgot about it, would be substantially richer today than those who actively managed their investments.
How Gen Z is powering a digital SIP revolution
Gen Zs SIP-first, DIY investing style is shifting incremental mutual fund inflows towards digital platforms.
Need to scrap or sell your car? Heres how to decide
While selling may fetch a better price, there are situations under which scrapping may be your only option.
How to break bad money habits and save more in 2026
Many of our resolutions are planned steps in the right direction. We know that what we are setting out to do is good, but giving up the joys of an entrenched habit or behaviour is tougher than the perceived pleasures of acquiring a new one. Finding a coach, a partner, a well-wisher to goad us on helps.
No mandatory probate for wills in three metros
By removing Section 213 and amending Section 370(1) of the Indian Succession Act, the recently passed Repealing and Amending Act, 2025 places the wills of a deceased Hindu, Jain, Sikh, Parsi, or Buddhist person in Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai on par with those in the rest of the country.
Cheaper EMIs: How to borrow smartly in 2026
Lower rates dont guarantee a good loan. Check your EMI limits, compare rates and cut loan costs.
Value, Low Volatility factors lead, Alpha lags in 2025
The annual returns are ranked for 6 key NSE Factor indices, with a broad-based index, Nifty 500, thrown in for comparison. This map shows that no single-factor strategy consistently outperforms, making a strong case for diversification. By Sameer Bhardwaj.
Golden visa costs jump on rupee fall, check the latest
A weak rupee is making global mobility costlier by the day.
What is ESOP and how does it work? Know its taxation
If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, heres a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 84th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains what this employee incentive means.
Bank of Baroda logs 15% loan growth in Q3
The total outstanding credit was 11.73 lakh crore at the end of the third quarter of previous fiscal, BoB said in a regulatory filing
RBI top brass to meet NBFC chiefs
NBFCs gross advances rose by a robust 21.1 per cent y-o-y as at September-end 2025 against Scheduled Commercial Banks gross advances growth of 11 per cent
A husband secured a divorce from the Chhattisgarh High Court. The court found his wife's family concealed her infertility before marriage. The husband will pay Rs 5 lakh as one-time alimony. The marriage took place in 2015. The couple has been living separately since 2016. The court considered evidence and awarded the alimony for equity.
Mis-selling in insurance sector significant concern: Irdai
Insurance regulator Irdai has flagged mis-selling as a major issue. Grievances related to unfair business practices have risen significantly. Insurers are now advised to perform root cause analysis to tackle this problem. Insurance penetration remains static, below global averages. However, insurance density shows a modest increase, indicating consistent growth since 2016-17.
Investing Rs 10 lakh in 2026? Heres a roadmap for conservative investors
Bandhan Bank loans grow 10% Dec quarter, deposits up 11%
On a sequential basis, total deposits saw a marginal decline of 0.9%.
5 most common mistakes mutual fund investors make and how to avoid them
Retail investors often derail long-term wealth creation by chasing past returns, following market trends, seeking high-beta or quick gains, and lacking discipline. Successful mutual fund investing requires aligning choices with personal goals, assessing risk, focusing on long-term compounding, and staying patient through market cycles. Discipline, consistency, and strategic allocation are key to unlocking sustainable investment outcomes.
I have earned over Rs 50,000 by trading in RBI-approved currency pairs. How should I file my ITR?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I frequently trade in Sebi-registered and RBI-approved currency pairs (USD/INR, GBP/INR, EUR/INR) through the Zerodha app. In this financial year, my short-term gains have exceeded Rs 50,000. How should I file my ITR?
Equity mutual funds log over 4% weekly gains; check top 10 performers
FD rate up to 8% for senior citizens investing for five years; Know full list of banks
Senior citizens can now secure attractive returns on their investments. Several banks are offering fixed deposit interest rates up to 8 percent for a five-year tenure. This presents a significant opportunity for older individuals to grow their savings. Investors should review the list of banks to find the best rates available for their financial planning.
Looking for low cost and high return funds in 3 months? Parag Parikh Liquid Fund among top 5
7 smallcaps with upside potential of up to 54% to bet in 2026. How many do you own?
In a recent report, the brokerage has identified seven smallcap stocks spanning utilities, financials and consumer discretionary that could offer value and potentially deliver returns of up to 54% over the next year.
To help you out in such situations, theres a simple rule of investment called the 1% rent vs buy rule that can help you decide if a property is worth buying or not. This rule can help you find potential positive cash flow and avoid overpriced or underperforming assets.
Edelweiss Flexi Cap Fund remains underrated despite strong long-term performance, says Radhika Gupta
Edelweiss Mutual Fund's CEO highlights the Flexi Cap Fund as an overlooked gem, boasting strong long-term performance despite a market preference for short-term gains. While its one-year returns are modest, its consistent 3, 5, and 10-year track records demonstrate a disciplined approach, outperforming benchmarks and category averages over extended periods.
Gold ETFs deliver upto 72% return in 2025. What should investors expect in 2026?
Gold ETFs surged in 2025, offering investors a safe haven amid global turmoil. Tata Gold ETF led with a 72.17% return. Experts foresee continued gold demand in 2026, driven by geopolitical risks and inflation. Investors are advised to consider their risk appetite for future decisions.
A Singapore-based NRI woman earned Rs 1.35 crore from selling Indian mutual funds. She claimed tax exemption under the India-Singapore DTAA. The tax department rejected her claim, but the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Mumbai ruled in her favour. Know how she won the case in ITAT Mumbai.
Flexi cap mutual funds offer upto 11% return in 2025. Check top 5 performers
There were 39 funds in the category of which 30 funds gave positive returns and nine funds gave negative returns.
A widow's plea for compensation after her husband's death in Cameroon reached the Madras High Court. The foreign employer failed to pay promised support. The court has now directed the Central Government to intervene at the highest levels in Cameroon. This action aims to secure justice for the grieving family.
ASK Private Wealth's 2026 Outlook identifies six key themes for wealth creation, including AI adoption, trade tariff resolution, and central bank policies. The report highlights AI's earnings-driven growth, potential India-US tariff deal benefits, and room for central bank rate cuts.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on January 3, 2026?
Banks in India observe national and regional holidays, with varying closures across states. While many customers utilize Saturdays, banks are closed on select Saturdays and all Sundays.
Banks credit growth outpaces deposit growth in Q3 FY26
ICRA revises its projection of credit expansion in FY26 to 19.5-21.0 trillion (10.711.5%) from its earlier estimate of 19-20.5 trillion (10.4-11.3% y-o-y growth)
Banking system liquidity turns into moderate surplus
The system usually sees a surplus of Rs 1-1.5 lakh crore at the beginning of the month, with Government spending releasing liquidity.
Is RBI discontinuing Rs 500 notes from March 2026? Heres what government says about it
Rumours circulating on social media claim the Reserve Bank of India will stop dispensing Rs 500 notes from ATMs by March 2026. The Press Information Bureau has clarified these claims are false. The Rs 500 currency note remains legal tender. People should verify information from official sources and not believe misinformation.
RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds will continue to offer 8.05% interest until June 2026, linked to the National Savings Certificate rate. Interest is paid semi-annually on January 1 and July 1. Investors should note that this interest is taxable, and TDS applies if annual interest exceeds Rs 10,000. Premature redemption is possible under specific conditions with a penalty.
NHAI discontinues KYV for new car FASTags from February 1, 2026: Check details
ICICI Bank introduces a Capital Gains Account Scheme starting January 1, 2025. This scheme allows resident individuals and HUFs to deposit long-term capital gains for tax exemption. Funds can be parked for up to three years in savings or term deposit accounts. This offers a solution for taxpayers unable to reinvest gains before the ITR deadline.
Latest PPF interest rate: The Finance Ministry has confirmed that interest rates for small savings schemes, including the Public Provident Fund (PPF), will remain unchanged for the January-March 2026 quarter. PPF investors will continue to earn a tax-free interest of 7.1% on their deposits. This rate has been consistent since 2020.
Central government employees and pensioners are anticipating a Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief increase. The November AICPI-IW data suggests a potential hike for early 2026. This revision ensures payouts keep pace with inflation. The upcoming 8th Pay Commission may also consider these allowances, influencing future salary and pension adjustments.
How should you invest in 2026? Expert shares 4 tips for investors
After a challenging 2025 for equity investors, financial expert Mohit Gang, CEO of Moneyfront, outlines key strategies to strengthen portfolios and navigate the year ahead.The expert noted that the past year was a challenging one for some investors who had concentrated all of their investments in equities, especially in the high-risk mid- and small-cap stocks. Gang said that the large-cap stocks investors managed to get a little better, earning modest single-digit returns.
Multi-asset funds deliver stellar gains in 2025. How much did the metals rally contribute?
Multi-asset allocation funds led in 2025, delivering nearly 17% returns, boosted by gold and silver rallies. Equity-oriented funds struggled to match benchmarks, while balanced advantage funds achieved modest 5.9% returns, showing diversification benefits in a mixed market.
Scheduled Commercial Banks can now sponsor pension funds. PFRDA has revised charges for Points of Presence in NPS schemes. Investment management fees for pension funds will also see changes from April 1, 2026. These updates aim to strengthen the pension ecosystem and enhance competition for subscribers. New charge structures will be effective from January 1, 2026.
Looking to invest Rs 10 lakh in 2026? Here is a help for aggressive investors
Investment experts suggest aggressive investors deploying a Rs 10 lakh lump sum in 2026 should maintain a strong equity bias despite weak 2025 returns. Recommendations favour diversified exposure across large, mid and small-cap funds, selective international equity, and a limited allocation to gold and silver, while largely avoiding debt.
Quant Mutual Fund remains bullish on large caps, select private banks, and insurance. With strong liquidity, mid and smallcap exposure rising, supportive RBI policy, and a stable US dollar, the fund expects Indian equities to participate in the 2026 uptrend.
Bitcoin, gold or private equity? A modern guide to alternative investing in 2026
ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund announces change in fund managers of its 2 funds
ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund announces a shift in leadership for its funds. S Naren will transition out of the Dynamic Asset Allocation Active FOF management. Concurrently, expect updates to the Gold ETF, Regular Gold Savings Fund, and Silver ETF Fund of Fund's core attributes.
Multibagger auto stock that rallied 215% in 2025 reports 50% jump in December sales; stock rises 5%
Force Motors shares saw a significant jump on Friday, January 2, 2026. The company reported strong December sales, with total sales increasing by 50%. Domestic sales grew by 49%, and exports nearly doubled. Force Motors' net profit more than doubled in the second quarter and for the first half of FY26.
Punjab & Sind Bank reports 15.25% growth in gross advances in Q3 FY26
Total deposits rise 9.27%; CD ratio improves to 79.37%
Top 10 mutual funds to invest in January 2026
We have chosen two schemes from five different equity mutual fund categories - aggressive hybrid, large cap, mid cap, small cap and flexi cap schemes which we believe should be enough for regular mutual fund investors.
A husband partly won his maintenance case as the Allahabad High Court reduced his wife's monthly payment. The court acknowledged the unpredictable income of junior district court lawyers. Despite the wife's claims of significant assets, the husband's earnings were deemed uncertain. The maintenance was lowered from Rs 5,000 to Rs 3,750 per month.
The Delhi High Court has ruled in favour of two government officers. Delay in issuing their appointment letters created a gap in their promotion and pay hike eligibility. The court held the Union of India responsible for the administrative delay. These officers will now receive notional promotion and associated benefits.
2025 saw mixed asset class performance, with gold and silver soaring while small-cap equities declined. Experts anticipate a potential equity revival in 2026, driven by economic growth and corporate earnings. Debt markets may offer opportunities amidst expected RBI rate cuts, while real estate offers diversified entry through REITs and InvITs.
RBI eases capital norms for NBFCs financing high-quality infrastructure projects
The RBI said the Amendment Directions will be applicable from April 1, 2026, or from an earlier date when these directions are adopted by a NBFC in entirety
Radhika Gupta, Managing Director and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, says Edelweiss Mutual Fund manages the oldest equity savings fund in the market and calls it her mother-in-law fund.
Slippages in unsecured retail loans go up to 53.1 % of total retail loans for banks: FSR
With slippages going up in unsecured retail lending, PVBs resorted to write-offs in a big way even as recoveries were muted.
Smallcap mutual funds lose over 5% in 2025. Check top 5 losers
Small-cap mutual funds emerged as the weakest performers of 2025, with most schemes delivering negative returns and underperforming benchmarks. Only one fund managed positive gains, highlighting broad-based pressure across the segment. The trend underscores heightened volatility, stock-specific risks, and the challenges faced by small-cap investors during the year.
Mutual fund NFOs: 2 passive funds are open for subscription now. Check details
Two new passive mutual fund schemes, an ETF and an index fund, are currently open for subscription, offering investors additional low-cost investment options across equity and government securities.
PFRDA Reforms NPS: Heres what new sponsors and fee changes mean for your pension
The new policy also comes with a very specific set of requirements for the banks, which comprises their net worth, market capitalisation and compliance with RBI guidelines in terms of financial stability, thus making it certain that only the most financially strong and less risky banks will be allowed to set up Pension Funds. The comprehensive criteria will be published in a separate notification and will be applicable to both new and existing funds.
Silver to have higher drawdown risk than gold in 2026: Mirae Asset Mutual Fund
Mirae Asset Mutual Funds 2026 outlook highlights higher volatility risks in silver after strong gains, favouring balanced precious metal allocation with a gradual tilt to gold. It stresses disciplined asset allocation, selective equity strategies, accrual-focused fixed income, and diversified passive investing to navigate volatility and achieve long-term portfolio stability.
8th Pay Commission: How much can your pay rise from January 1, 2026? Check level-wise calculation
The 8th Pay Commission is set to bring major salary hikes for central government employees, defence personnel, and pensioners from January 1, 2026. While the new pay cycle has officially begun, actual payments will depend on the commissions recommendations. This article explains who stands to gain the most, how arrears will be calculated, and examples of expected increases across different pay levels.
Financial planners recommend goal-based investing for 2026; heres why
Financial planners advocate goal-based investing in 2026 as it aligns portfolios with specific life objectives, improves discipline, and helps navigate market volatility more effectively.
Scheduled Commercial Banks can now become sponsors of Pension Funds: PFRDA
The proposed framework introduces clearly defined eligibility criteria to ensure that only well-capitalised and systemically robust banks are permitted to sponsor Pension Funds
Over 55% return! Mutual fund scheme of the year 2025 crown goes to HSBC Brazil Fund
Mutual fund investors had a strong year in 2025, with the HSBC Brazil Fund emerging as the top-performing scheme. The fund delivered over 55% returns, turning a 1 lakh lump-sum invested at the start of the year into 1.55 lakh, while a 10,000 monthly SIP grew to 1.48 lakh with an XIRR of 46.45%, despite market volatility.
IREDAs loan disbursements up 44% at 24,903 cr in Apr-Dec
Loan sanctions during the period stood at 40,100 crore, reflecting a growth of 29% over 31,087 crore a year ago
IFSCA notifies rules to operationalise global in-house centres in IFSC
The move seeks to attract India-centric financial activities currently handled offshore, generate employment, and deepen Indias integration into the global financial value chain.
Best mutual fund SIP portfolios to invest in January 2026
ETMutualFunds' best mutual fund SIP portfolios are meant for three different individual risk profiles: conservative, moderate and aggressive. We have also considered three SIP baskets between Rs 2,000-5,000, between Rs 5,000-10,000 and above Rs 10,000 while creating these portfolios. Take a look at our recommended portfolios.
Mutual fund investing in 2026: Types of schemes that may do well
Mutual fund investors are planning their equity strategy for 2026. Experts recommend flexi-cap and large & mid-cap funds for stability and growth. New investors should start with flexi-cap and large-cap categories. Experienced investors can consider index, flexi cap, multi cap, and international funds. Caution is advised for mid-cap, small-cap, and international funds due to current valuations.
Missed Dec 31 revised ITR Deadline? How to claim your tax refund now
Missed the income tax return deadline. Do not worry. You can still fix mistakes. File a rectification application under Section 154. This applies to errors found after your return is processed. This option is available even after December 31, 2025. It helps correct mistakes apparent from the record. This process can lead to refunds or increased refunds.
After a 22 years long fight an Indian husband has got relief from his marriage when the Supreme Court of India gave him divorce. Prolonged matrimonial legal fight leads only to a marriage on paper, says Supreme Court; ends 22-year divorce battle in husbands favour. Read the article to know how the husband won.
A Mumbai woman successfully claimed capital gains tax exemption under Section 54F after selling land for Rs 70 lakh and investing in a new apartment. Despite a five-year delay by the builder in executing the sale agreement, the ITAT Mumbai ruled in her favor, acknowledging her timely payments and acquisition of rights to the property.
Important GST changes and amendments made in 2025 which will impact your taxation in 2026
Goods and Services Tax saw major shifts in 2025. A GST rates rationalisation, GST Appellate Tribunal launch, and changes to blocked credit definitions impacted businesses. Landmark court rulings clarified GST applicability on mutual associations, development rights, and SEZ units. These updates are reshaping tax compliance and dispute resolution across India.
Tamil Nadu RERA introduces a vital three-bank-account rule for real estate projects starting January 1, 2026. This system ensures homebuyers' money is strictly managed. Funds will be segregated into collection, separate, and transaction accounts. Builders must meet strict conditions for withdrawals, enhancing transparency and safeguarding investments. This move aims to prevent fund diversion and ensure project completion.
New Year bank holiday January 1, 2026: Are banks open or closed today on New Years Day?
Banks will observe closures in select Indian states on January 1, 2026, for New Year's Day and Gaan-Ngai. While most banks will operate normally, account holders in Mizoram, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, West Bengal, and Meghalaya should verify branch timings before visiting due to regional holidays.
1,400 crore bank fraud: ED attaches UK property linked to S Kumars ex-CMD Nitin Kasliwal
Valued at around Rs 150 crore, the property is held through offshore trusts and companies controlled by Kasliwal and his family
New income tax rules for 2025 bring welcome changes. Salaried individuals earning up to Rs 12.75 lakh will pay no tax. TDS thresholds for rent, bank interest, and dividends are increased. Senior citizens benefit from doubled TDS limits on interest income. These updates aim to simplify compliance and offer financial relief to many taxpayers across India.
Banks exposure to capital market and real estate sector on a 6-year high
Private sector banks recorded a CAGR of 19.3% in the advances to capital market sector from FY20 to FY25, and a 20% CAGR in their exposure to the real estate sector
Maritime NBFC Sagarmala Finance begins lending with 4,300 crore approvals
Of this, around Rs 4,000 crore is earmarked for a greenfield port project, while Dredging Corporation of India and Goa Shipyard have received Rs 150 crore and Rs 110 crore, respectively
BankNBFC interlinkages have evolved beyond the traditional lending-borrowing channel
Key gauge indicates the rising depreciation pressure on the Indian Rupee: FSR
EMP is used to measure external pressures on the currency and is constructed as a weighted average of exchange rate movements and changes in forex reserves
Supply of G-Secs State Govt Secs has risen considerably in FY26: FSR
The current steepening of the yield curve and relatively higher exchange rate volatility, if sustained, could impact banks treasury income
Stablecoins pose serious financial stability risks: RBI FSR
Stablecoins could undermine singleness of money, which is the principle that all forms of money are freely interchangeable, i.e., they trade at the same price and accepted everywhere
RBI floating rate bonds provide a secure investment with an 8.05% interest rate. Issued by the Indian government, these bonds offer a sovereign guarantee. Unlike many small savings schemes, there is no maximum investment limit. The interest rate adjusts every six months, aligning with market changes. This makes them ideal for conservative investors seeking stable income and capital protection.
Crypto trading volumes can double if the government ratifies tax policy: COO Zebpay
Raj Karkara, Chief Operating Officer, Zebpay, talks about the potential boost such an amendment could give to customer activity
The Finance Ministry maintained current interest rates for key small savings schemes like PPF, SCSS, and NSC for the January-March 2026 quarter. Despite indicators like low inflation and G-Sec yields suggesting a rate cut, the government opted to keep rates unchanged for the seventh consecutive quarter to support savers and retirees.
Nine NBFCs would breach minimum capital requirement limit if their top 3 borrowers default: RBI
The RBI assessed resilience of the NBFC sector to liquidity shocks by estimating the impact of assumed increase in cash outflows coupled with decline in cash inflows
Bartronics India to expand Maharashtra Gramin Banks network under long-term service agreement
The agreement builds on a seven-year partnership between the two entities
No bank to fall short of capital requirements, even under severe stress: RBI FSR
While banks asset quality remained stable, their y-o-y growth in net interest income remained muted over the first half of 2025-26, impacting the profit growth
Banks and small finance banks significantly reduced fixed deposit interest rates in 2025 following multiple repo rate cuts by the RBI. As 2026 begins, experts anticipate FD rates will likely remain stable or trend slightly lower, with potential shifts towards debt funds for investors seeking better returns and liquidity.
