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Best small cap mutual funds to invest in July 2026
Small cap funds saw significant inflows in May 2026 after a poor 2025. Despite market volatility, advisors suggest staggered investments for long-term wealth creation. These funds invest in companies ranked below 250 by market capitalization. Small cap stocks offer high return potential but also carry considerable risk. Investors should select skilled fund managers and monitor performance during downturns.
Central government employees' union requested simpler recovery waivers for excess payments. The DoE secretary assured examination of these demands with DoPT. Audits often identify past overpayments, leading to salary deductions. NC-JCM argues these are administrative errors, not employee fault. They propose delegating waiver powers to department heads for faster resolution.
Worlds smartest investors are turning to fine wine and rare whisky. You can too! 9 things to know
New EPF Scheme, 2026: What existing and new PF subscribers should know
India's Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) is undergoing a significant modernization with the EPF Scheme, 2026. Existing subscribers will see continuity in their balances and membership, while new entrants will find a clearer framework for contributions and benefits. A key change involves increased flexibility for voluntary contributions, allowing employees to build larger retirement funds.
HNIs turn to hybrid debt funds, SIFs for higher post-tax returns
Rich investors are exploring niche mutual funds and specialized investment funds. These products offer higher returns and better tax efficiency for portfolios. Funds bundle debt, arbitrage, REITs, and InvITs to boost investor returns. This strategy provides a tax advantage over fixed deposits and debt funds. Investors must understand liquidity differences between fund types.
IDFC FIRST Bank launches EPFO-integrated PF payment services for businesses
The bank said the service will help businesses improve cash flow management and ensure timely statutory compliance
Intellect Design Arena signals strategy around AI-first banking
In the companys annual report for FY25-26, Intellect Design Arena said that financial institutions are increasingly embedding AI across enterprise operations
Bitcoin reclaims $63,000 as ETF inflows, easing macro concerns lift crypto sentiment
From a technical perspective, analysts see the $65,000-$70,000 range as the next major resistance zone for Bitcoin
Gold loans overtake vehicle loans as top securitised asset class in Q1: Crisil
Gold loans accounted for 31% of securitisation volumes, driven by strong NBFC portfolio growth and healthy investor demand
Private insurers commission payouts on the rise, mis-selling risk grows: RBI
IRDAI is expected to announce new norms on commissions soon
What the NMC case means to BankofBaroda investors
Bank of Barodas $600 million settlement could significantly affect current quarter earnings and weigh on investor sentiment
Amit Shah announces cooperative life insurance company; Bharat Taxi to expand to 500 cities
He also unveiled reforms to modernise cooperatives through PACS expansion, e-PACS, storage infrastructure and merit-based hiring.
New rules under the Income Tax Act 2025 are set to curb tax evasion by limiting cash transactions. Individuals cannot receive over Rs 2 lakh in cash from one person daily. Loans, deposits, and repayments exceeding Rs 20,000 must be cashless.
Income Tax Return (ITR) filing for the assessment year 2026-2027 sees a significant update with a new 'Other Income' column under the Exempt Income Schedule. This allows taxpayers to voluntarily disclose non-taxable receipts that don't fit specific categories, like rural agricultural land sales or gifts from relatives. Experts advise this proactive reporting to prevent potential tax notices and mismatches with departmental records, especially for substantial transactions.
How much should you invest through SIPs to build Rs 1 crore? Use this calculator
Learn how to calculate the monthly investment needed to build a Rs 1 crore corpus using Excels PMT function or a manual formula. The guide explains assumptions, calculation steps, and how changing returns, goals or timelines affects required investments for better financial planning.
EPF vs VPF under new EPF Scheme 2026: Here's how employee and employer contributions will work
EPFO: The EPF 2026 Scheme largely retains existing EPF contribution rules, with both employees and employers continuing to contribute 12% of wages, subject to the statutory wage ceiling. It also preserves the VPF framework, allowing employees to make higher voluntary contributions without requiring employers to match them, while offering flexibility to discontinue them later.
NaBFID backs first credit-enhanced bond issue with Think Gas Ludhiana
NaBFID said it plans to extend the model to more A-rated infrastructure companies to deepen Indias corporate bond market and support long-term infrastructure financing
A total of 12 equity mutual funds delivered an XIRR of over 15% on SIP investments over the last three years, according to an ETMutualFunds analysis of 255 schemes. Midcap and small-cap funds dominated the list, while just two funds posted negative SIP returns during the period.
The Odisha High Court has ordered the state government to release pending salary for an employee denied wages for over three years due to a stalled disciplinary case. The court emphasized the right to livelihood under Article 21, stating that withholding salary infringes upon basic human dignity. This landmark ruling ensures the employee receives dues, while the disciplinary proceedings continue separately.
Real estate private credit funds see refinancing demand rise as residential sales moderate
Developers shift to private credit for balance-sheet management rather than distress financing, with deal pipelines already up 10 to 20 percent
IIFCL plans to raise $2.3 billion via ECBs, overseas borrowing
Mops up 1,848 crore through NCD issue at a 7.25% coupon rate
The 8th Pay Commission is actively consulting stakeholders across India, recently holding discussions in Bhubaneswar and planning for Kolkata. Notably, the commission intends to conduct firsthand inspections of Indian Railways' operations, including track maintenance, signal work, and train control, to better understand employee working conditions and risks before salary revisions. Railway technical supervisors are advocating for broader operational inspections to ensure a comprehensive review.
EPS 2026 vs EPS-95: Key changes in minimum pension, eligibility and contributions explained
The Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS), 2026 has replaced EPS-1995 and the Employees' Family Pension Scheme, 1971 under the Social Security Code, 2020. Despite the new scheme, the minimum monthly EPS pension remains unchanged at Rs 1,000, the same as since September 1, 2014.
Nearing retirement? Here's how to decide between a bank FD and an SWP for monthly cash flow
Nearing retirement and confused between bank FDs and SWPs for monthly income? An expert suggests a balanced approach. Instead of picking just one, combine safe instruments like FDs for immediate expenses with hybrid or equity funds for growth.
A Chennai resident successfully reclaimed his Section 54 tax exemption after a three-year construction delay on his new home, initially denied by the tax department. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) ruled in his favour, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an extraordinary circumstance beyond his control. The tribunal emphasized a liberal interpretation of the beneficial provision, allowing the exemption despite minor delays in finalising construction.
Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) 2020-21 Series-IX investors can now redeem their bonds prematurely from July 4, 2026. The Reserve Bank of India has fixed the premature redemption price at Rs 14,366 per unit, reflecting a significant 190.22% return on the initial investment.
Bank of Maharashtra logs 27% rise in loan growth, total business crosses 6.5 lakh cr in Q1
The lender reported a 13 per cent rise in total deposits to 3.44 lakh crore in the reporting quarter against 3.05 lakh crore at the end of the first quarter of the previous financial year
NFO Insight: Can AlphaGrep's algorithm-driven multi-asset fund deliver better risk-adjusted returns?
AlphaGrep Mutual Fund has launched its first fund, the AlphaGrep Multi Asset Allocation Fund, employing a unique algorithm-driven approach. This open-ended scheme dynamically allocates capital across equities, fixed income, and commodities, aiming for better risk-adjusted returns with minimal human bias. Experts weigh in on the merits of algorithmic versus traditional multi-asset strategies, highlighting the importance of a long track record and individual investor control over asset allocation.
Several organisations representing central government employees and pensioners have urged the 8th Pay Commission to revise HRA, transport allowance, family unit norms and dearness allowance.
Best mid cap mutual funds to invest in July 2026
Mid-cap mutual funds have seen a strong rally, leading to investor anxiety about current valuations. While these companies offer potential for future growth, they also carry significant risks, including corporate governance issues. Investors with high risk tolerance and a long-term horizon (7-10 years) are advised to proceed with caution, focusing on regular investments rather than quick gains. Several mid-cap funds are highlighted for their recent performance.
Bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed today (Monday, July 6, 2026) in your state?
Bank holiday today: Banks will remain closed in select states on July 6, due to regional observances, while they will function as usual in the rest of the country. Here's a look at where banks are closed today and the reason behind the holidays.
Home loan trap: Is it ruling your life?
Many Indians stretch finances for dream homes, but hefty home loans lead to years of uncomfortable choices. Borrowers face lifestyle compression, career stagnation, and deferred savings, impacting family life and personal well-being. Experts urge homebuyers to prioritize true affordability over aspirations, stressing that a loan should enhance life, not dictate it, by considering future uncertainties and maintaining financial flexibility.
NRI tax filing: Avoid these costly ITR mistakes
Miscounted days in India, missed NRO interest and TDS mismatches can invite notices from a data-savvy tax department.
Too much riding on one AI stock? Diversify now
With tech employees holding up to 80% of their net worth in a single stock, advisers say not selling is a real danger.
Foreign universities in India: Should you enrol?
Foreign universities are now opening campuses in India, offering Indian students a chance to earn international degrees without leaving the country. This influx is driven by India's large student market and policy changes. While offering a more affordable global education, these campuses present fewer course options and facilities compared to their parent institutions abroad.
Should children pay rent to parents? US vs India
In the United States, those graduating in the 21st century especially have been seeking to return to the homes of their boomer parents. In India, in contrast, living with parents has remained a default option for young adults until they get married or move to another city for a joban arrangement that isendorsed by tradition.
Can the Jio IPO power the next telecom rally?
Strong revenue growth, rising data demand and a landmark Jio IPO signal a favourable sector outlook.
Why tax should never drive investment decisions
An investment must first stand up as an investment, and be a tax-saver only by accident. However, this problem has now solved itself. The new tax regime, now the default and chosen by close to three in four taxpayers, has done away with such deductions. Where there is no Section 80C to chase, there is no reason to go shopping for the bad product in March.
Alpha and value factors lead markets in 2026
Welcome to TrendMap, your guide to the performance of different investment segments. In this edition, we present a 10-year performance tracker of various factor-based investment strategies. 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.
Rise in dollar inflows may put additional pressure on Gold prices
Strong NRI interest in FCNR(B) deposits could bolster the rupee and keep domestic gold prices under check, say analysts
IIFCL mobilises 1,848 cr via bonds, strengthens resource base for infra financing
In line with the policy framework of the government and the Reserve Bank of India, IIFCL said it is also evaluating opportunities to raise funds through ECBs
PSU banks begin FY27 with strong loan growth; deposits trail
Retail, agriculture and MSME (RAM) loans continued to drive credit expansion across lenders
6 mutual fund NFOs to open for subscription this week. Check dates and key details
Investors have a busy week ahead with six new mutual funds launching. Mirae Asset, NJ Mutual Fund, Edelweiss, and AlphaGrep are introducing a mix of passive and actively managed schemes. These new offerings aim to broaden investment choices, with subscription periods starting as early as July 6th and minimum investments as low as Rs 500. Explore these new avenues for your portfolio.
Pvt sector banks log robust growth in deposits and advances in Q1FY27
The private sector banks deposits rose 14.7% year-on-year, while gross advances increased by 15.4%
Quant Mutual Fund expects Indian equities to consolidate after the recent rally but believes micro-, small- and mid-cap stocks will drive alpha. It remains bullish on energy, infrastructure, select financials, telecom and pharma while advocating active portfolio management over passive investing.
11 equity mutual funds deliver over 25% in 3 months. Do you own any?
Eleven equity mutual funds generated over 25% returns in the past three months, led by small-cap schemes. JM Small Cap Fund topped the list with a 35.02% gain. Experts advise investors to prioritise risk profile and goals over past performance.
Despite recent underperformance, experts continue recommending Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund for its consistent long-term, risk-adjusted returns and disciplined large-cap bias. They advise investors to evaluate funds over complete market cycles instead of chasing short-term performance or recent category leaders.
Looking for the best mutual funds to invest in? Check top 10 picks for July 2026
Choosing mutual funds solely on past returns can be misleading. ETMutualFunds shortlisted 10 funds across five equity categories using rolling returns, consistency, downside risk, outperformance and asset size, helping investors align investments with their goals, risk appetite and time horizon.
A Delhi landlord, busy caring for his ailing father, missed the deadline to e-verify his income tax return, leading to a denied Rs 17 lakh refund. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Delhi intervened, ruling that withholding the refund on a technicality would amount to unjust enrichment. The tribunal emphasized that tax can only be collected by law, allowing the landlord to claim his rightful refund.
Father can't relinquish daughters share in ancestral property to son; Know the legal position
A father cannot legally sign away his daughter's rightful share in ancestral property to his son, the Andhra Pradesh High Court has ruled. Under Mitakshara Hindu law, daughters hold an independent interest in coparcenary property, which a father cannot relinquish. This ruling clarifies that such deeds only affect the father's personal share, not other co-sharers' rights. Self-acquired property, however, remains at the owner's disposal.
Husband worked in Oman and could not talk with late wife; Wife committed suicide by saying refusal to speak to her over the phone caused her severe mental distress; Indian Trial Court convicts him for cruelty under Section 498A and 304B for dowry death and sentences 3 years jail with Rs 10,000 fine; Supreme Court gives him relief from jail by cancelling all the criminal charges
Gold prices have seen a notable recovery this week, with both gold and silver rates climbing according to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA). This upward trend follows a dip experienced last week. 22k gold jewellery rates at leading brands such as Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Kalyan Jewellers and Joyalukkas also rose.
Gold down 5.6%, silver 10.8% in a month: Should you buy the dip or wait? Experts answer
Gold and silver prices have seen a significant dip on the MCX, prompting questions for investors. Experts attribute the fall to a strong dollar, potential Fed rate hikes, and profit-booking. While a recovery is possible with macro triggers, analysts suggest a cautious approach. New investors might find opportunities to accumulate, while existing holders are advised to view this as a consolidation phase, potentially rebalancing their portfolios.
Forgotten FDs, shares or insurance? Heres how to recover unclaimed financial assets
Years of diligent wealth building can be lost to forgotten investments. Life's changes often lead to unclaimed bank deposits, insurance, shares, and mutual funds. Fortunately, the government's Unclaimed Assets Portal offers a single search point. While it helps locate these assets, remember it's a search tool, not a claim settlement system. Recovering your money requires a separate process with the relevant institution, even if funds were transferred to government-managed accounts.
CAMS Investor Services receives approval from IFSCA Gift City
Subsidiary of CAMS to tap global markets with new KYC registration agency
Truhome Finance sees Govt policy to push demand for affordable housing finance
Truhome Finance registered the second highest disbursement of 7,130 crore and 6,382 crore between FY25 and FY23
Wealth Company appoints Kulkarni as Managing Director
Veteran with Merrill Lynch and Julius Baer experience to drive product strategy and innovation
The Latest Home Loan Interest Rates: Jun 26, 2026
The Latest Home Loan Interest Rates: Jun 26, 2026
The Latest Fixed Deposit Interest Rates: Jun 26, 2026
The Latest Fixed Deposit Interest Rates: Jun 26, 2026
Bank holidays July 2026: State-wise list of closures
Bank branches will observe a relatively light closure schedule in July, with the holiday calendar largely shaped by regional observances in northeastern and border states
The Wealth Company Asset Management announces appointment of Unmesh Kulkarni as managing director
The Wealth Company Asset Management, part of Pantomath Group, has appointed Unmesh Kulkarni as its Managing Director. With 29 years of experience in wealth management and capital markets, Kulkarni previously co-founded Merrill Lynch and Julius Baer's wealth management arms in India.
ITR filing 2026: Made foreign investments? Follow this checklist to avoid tax scrutiny
Paytm's European arm secures payment institution licence in Luxembourg
Paytm's European arm, Paytm Europe Payments, has secured a crucial payment institution license from Luxembourg's financial regulator, effective July 2, 2026. This approval allows the company to offer a range of payment services, including fund transfers and credit line-backed transactions. The move follows a significant investment by its parent company, One 97 Communications, to bolster the European entity's capital and support its business expansion.
Certificates of deposit issuances rise 38% in June amid tight liquidity, credit offtake
When compared to the preceding May, the CD issuances jumped 61.79%
Bank of India Small Cap among 6 equity funds to deliver over 15% return in 6 months. Check details
Six small cap mutual funds delivered over 15% returns in the past six months, led by Bank of India Small Cap Fund with a 21.04% gain. Other performers include TRUSTMF, JM, Motilal Oswal, Union, and ITI funds, reflecting strong momentum in the small cap segment.
Delhi High Court ruled that tenants overstaying their lease must pay increased rent as per the agreement, even if they temporarily requested more time to vacate. The court emphasized that continued possession triggers the rent escalation clause automatically. This applies even to unregistered lease deeds, as the obligation matures upon expiry of the initial term. Landlords can pursue legal action for unpaid rent and eviction.
The EPFO's unified member portal is now live after an upgrade, bringing a new look and significant changes. Key services like UAN activation and direct allotment have moved to the UMANG app, utilizing Aadhaar-based Face Authentication. While UAN retrieval is simplified on the portal, death claim filing remains accessible. This update aims for faster, more secure services for all users.
Following his tryst with debt, the man recovered and developed his own theory for financial freedom, in which he stresses on incrementally building savings and paying off debts in a systematic way. Ramsey has also made this into a formalized series of 7 Baby Steps. He strongly advocates that if one can regulate the person in their mirror (themselves), they would win with money.
8th Pay Commission extends key data submission deadline to July 31; here's why it matters
8th Pay Commission latest news: The 8th Pay Commission has extended the deadline for submitting crucial employee data to July 31, 2026, citing difficulties faced by various government bodies. This vital information, including sanctioned strength, personnel numbers, and attrition metrics, must be uploaded exclusively through the commission's online portal. The commission is also holding stakeholder meetings across India, with upcoming sessions in Bhubaneswar and Kolkata to gather input on pay, pensions, and working conditions.
22k gold rate: Gold prices are under scrutiny as buyers track daily fluctuations. Today, July 3, 2026, shoppers planning to purchase gold jewellery should compare rates across leading jewellers like Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Kalyan Jewellers, and Joyalukkas, as prices vary.
ICICI Bank mulls first benchmark dollar bond sale since 2017
The bank could raise at least $500 million in offshore bonds
A new Employees' Provident Funds Scheme, 2026, has replaced the 1952 version under the Code on Social Security, 2020. The EPF interest rate remains at 8.25% for the financial year 2025-26. While digital services are formally incorporated, private PF trusts now face a cap on their declared interest rates, not exceeding the central government's rate by more than 2%.
Which is the best Nifty-based index fund to buy basis expense ratio and tracking error?
Choosing the best Nifty-based index fund involves more than just a low expense ratio. Experts emphasize that tracking error, which measures how closely a fund mirrors its benchmark, is crucial for long-term returns. While low costs are attractive, consistent replication accuracy, indicated by low tracking error, often proves more vital for passive investors aiming to capture market performance effectively.
Cashless health insurance claim rejected? You may still get your claim settled; heres how
Cashless health insurance claims are often rejected due to documentation or procedural issues, not outright denial. Understanding the reasons, like network hospital discrepancies or incomplete paperwork, is crucial. If rejected, policyholders can opt for reimbursement, but prompt follow-up with the insurer and proper documentation are key to resolving issues and ensuring claims are settled.
Living past 85: 7 reasons your retirement plan needs a rethink
Crypto should not be legalised in India: RBI tells Parliamentary Panel
The Central Bank tells Par panel that virtual digital assets like cryptocurrency a threat to economy
PNB clocks 13% loan growth in Q1, Bank of India 19%
State-run lenders PNB and Bank of India reported robust credit growth in the June quarter, while ESAF Small Finance Bank and Tamilnad Mercantile Bank also posted strong gains in advances and deposits.
Rethinking wealth creation: Why a 70:30 portfolio is gaining traction
Investors seeking a balanced approach to wealth creation are increasingly favoring portfolios that blend equities with debt. A recent study highlights that a 70% equity, 30% debt mix, with strategic rebalancing, yielded impressive returns with significantly lower volatility compared to an all-equity index. This strategy helps investors remain invested through market ups and downs, offering a more stable investment journey.
Updated scale-based regulations for NBFCs: Tata Sons may be required to list
No material change in RBIs NBFC norms; revised directions merely clarify public funds definition
BoB to pay $600 m in out-of-court settlement with UAE-based NMC Health
This is to avoid prolonged litigation, uncertainty and associated costs
Bank of Baroda reports 15% increase in global business
Domestic deposits up 14.74%, advances rise 16.14% with strong retail growth
JioBlackRock to offer full MF bouquet in 3 years; plans more SIFs, ETFs, GIFT City products
Jio BlackRock is set to significantly expand its mutual fund offerings over the next three years, venturing into more specialized investment funds (SIFs), ETFs, and offshore products via GIFT City. Following the launch of its Prism Hybrid Long-Short fund, the company plans another SIF in the equity long-short category soon. ETFs are also on the horizon, promising wider access to global investment strategies for Indian investors.
AI to drive reskilling in IT sector but job loss fears misplaced: Axis Bank chief economist
Neelkanth Mishra sees services exports growing strongly despite AI shifts in industry structure
India emerges as worlds most tokenised market for online card payments: Visa
Over 900 million tokens in circulation as country enters new phase of trust and security in digital payments
e-OCI card launched: How OCI cardholder can generate and download electronic-OCI card
8th Pay Commission salary calculator: Central government employee unions are pushing for significant changes in the 8th Pay Commission, demanding higher family unit counts, increased House Rent Allowance (HRA) and Transport Allowance (TPTA), and the merger of Dearness Allowance (DA) with basic pay. These bodies argue current provisions are insufficient for low-level employees, especially in major cities.
PBPartners ropes in 5 lakh partners in 5 years
The number of cities covered has grown to 703, up from 167 over the past five years
