34 C 
West Asia financial hubs at risk, Iran identifies new targets
The statement emphasizes that financial hubs, particularly Dubai in the UAE, along with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, are at heightened risk
These 10 equity mutual funds receive inflows in February. Check key details
These 10 equity mutual funds received inflows in February. Equity mutual funds received total inflows of Rs 25,977 crore in February compared to an inflow of Rs 24,028 crore in January.
Air India is implementing a phased fuel surcharge on domestic and international flights due to rising jet fuel prices caused by geopolitical tensions in the Gulf. The fuel surcharge will be applied in three phases. The first phase will start from 1 am, India Standard Time, March 12, 2026, as an Air India statement.
The mutual fund SIP stoppage ratio rose marginally to 75.62% in February from 74.83% in January, even as the number of discontinued SIPs declined. Monthly SIP inflows slipped to Rs 29,845 crore due to the shorter month, while new registrations remained strong, reflecting sustained investor participation in systematic investing.
The All India NPS Employees Federation is set to present key demands to the 8th Pay Commission, including extending CGHS services to UT and CAB employees and introducing one year of parental care leave. The federation also seeks uniform implementation of central government orders for these employees and increased leave entitlements for teachers in Union Territories.
Can SIPs and NPS together help an investor build Rs 25 crore in 18 years?
A 45-year-old government employee investing through SIPs and NPS could accumulate around Rs 25 crore in 18 years, according to Optima Money Managers Pankaj Mathpal. While mutual funds may generate nearly Rs 20 crore, NPS could add Rs 5 crore, potentially exceeding the investors Rs 15 crore retirement target.
Shriram General Insurance launches new indemnity-based health insurance plan
Key upgrades in the plan include removal of room rent and ICU charge caps, allowing patients to choose hospital facilities based on medical necessity rather than financial constraints
What is a demat account? A beginners guide to stock investing
A demat account is a digital repository for holding equity shares and financial securities, eliminating the need for physical certificates. It works in conjunction with trading and bank accounts, enabling efficient and secure transactions. Essential for beginners, it offers paperless investing, centralized portfolio management, and reduced risk.
LPG cylinder prices in India have surged due to the Iran-Israel conflict, disrupting global gas supplies. With 60% of India's LPG imported from the Middle East, domestic prices rose significantly on March 7, 2026. The government is increasing refinery production and prioritizing domestic and essential sector supplies to mitigate further hikes.
Parag Parikh Large Cap Fund: RIL, HDFC Bank, and Infosys among top 10 stock holdings
If I gift money to my spouse, who pays tax on the interest, dividends and capital gains?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: If one spouse gifts money to the other and the recipient invests it in fixed deposits or similar instruments, the interest income is clubbed with the income of the donor spouse. However, if the same gifted amount is invested, the resulting capital gains and dividends are taxed in the hands of the recipient spouse. Kindly clarify.
Multi-asset allocation fund inflows dropped 19% to Rs 8,476 crore in February, potentially due to profit booking and reallocation to pure equity funds. Experts suggest this moderation is natural after strong commodity rallies and doesn't signal a structural shift, with the category remaining stable overall.
Sreekanth PV appointed as group head of operations and customer experience at Manappuram Finance
Sreekanth brings over 22 years of experience in operations management, digital platforms, product innovation, and customer experience within the financial services sector
Travelling during war tensions? Heres what travel insurance will and wont cover
Rising tensions in West Asia have caused flight disruptions and left thousands of travellers stranded, including many Indians in the UAE and nearby regions. As uncertainty increases, travellers are looking to extend their travel insurance policies to ensure theyre covered during extended stays abroad. However, many dont realise that insurance policies often have strict exclusions for disruptions directly linked to war or armed conflict.
Allianz Jio Reinsurance, Kiwi General Insurance get IRDAI approval
Approval to new companies shows evolution of Indian Insurance industry, says General Insurance Council
Sunil Singhania-backed Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund raises stake in HDFC Bank, RIL and 26 other stocks
Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund, backed by Sunil Singhania, increased its holdings in HDFC Bank, Reliance Industries (RIL) and 26 other stocks in February 2026. The fund added the most shares in Bank of Baroda and expanded its portfolio to 44 stocks across 22 sectors.
Global banks push back on Indias offshore rupee reporting plan
Banks say reporting requirements could breach client confidentiality and clash with overseas data rules
Want 712% return on investment with safety? 9 top government-backed & market options explained
278% return on SGB premature redemption date: Gold bond turns Rs 1 lakh investment into Rs 3.78 lakh
Sovereign Gold Bond SGB: The Reserve Bank of India has announced the premature redemption price for Sovereign Gold Bond SGB 2019-20 Series-X, fixed at Rs 15,920 per unit for redemptions starting March 11, 2026.
Best large & mid cap funds to invest in March 2026
In large & mid cap funds, the fund manager has the option to decide where the money will be invested. If he thinks the large cap space is attractive, he may invest in large cap stocks. If he thinks mid cap and small cap stocks are poised to take off, he may invest in them. As you can see, these investments may increase or decrease the risk in these schemes.
Bain Capital nears final close of record $10.5 billion Asia fund, sources say
The firm has bagged $9 billion from fund investors, or the so-called limited partners, and plans to contribute $1.5 billion of its own capital, making the vehicle its largest Asia-focused fund to date, one of the people said
Senior citizens can achieve a Rs 1 lakh monthly income using government schemes. Options like SCSS and RBI bonds offer over 8% returns. Experts suggest strategies involving substantial investment in these safe avenues. This approach provides peace of mind against market volatility. Diversification and staggered investments help manage interest rate risks for consistent income.
After purchasing 5.38 kanals of government land at auction in 2011, a buyer discovered it was encroached upon. Following a 15-year legal battle, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court ruled in his favor, ordering possession and criticizing the government for misleading him. The court imposed Rs 50,000 in costs on the Jammu Development Authority for its actions.
12-year delay defeats brothers last-ditch bid to reclaim disputed land as HC blocks the move
Brothers' bid to reclaim ancestral land after a 12-year delay has failed. The Andhra Pradesh High Court ruled against their attempt to amend their lawsuit. This decision protects the rights of current landholders. The court emphasized that legal claims must be brought forward promptly. Delaying action can lead to the loss of legal recourse, even in ancestral property disputes.
Proposed 2026 Income Tax Rules could significantly benefit salaried individuals under the old tax regime. Key changes include expanded HRA exemptions for cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, potentially lowering tax liabilities. For a Rs 20 lakh salary, these revisions might offer substantial savings compared to the new tax regime, making the old system more attractive for many.
Rising global volatility boosts demand for short-term debt funds
Amidst geopolitical tensions and market volatility, investors are turning to overnight and liquid funds for temporary cash parking. These low-risk mutual funds offer liquidity and returns slightly above savings accounts, making them ideal for short-term needs before redeploying into riskier assets.
Government panel may review bank consolidation and foreign investor caps
Long-term, strategic equity investments from credible foreign players are generally positive for Indias banking system and unlikely to have adverse effects
Equity fund flows pick up in Feb even as SIPs get less
Equity mutual funds saw renewed investor interest in February, attracting significant inflows. This trend indicates a long-term outlook from investors, overlooking short-term market fluctuations. Gold ETFs continued to receive investments, though at a reduced pace. Conversely, silver ETFs experienced outflows as investors booked profits.
Bank of Baroda launches exclusive Sapphire savings account for women
Account holders will also receive a 50% first-year fee waiver in the form of reward points on the BOBCARD Tiara Credit Card, a premium, women-centric credit card
PSBs mopped up over 28,000 cr in 5 years through selling third party financial products
SBI was top earner followed by Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda and Union Bank of India during last five years
Progcap extends 10,000 crore credit to women entrepreneurs
The platform is also seeing strong engagement, with nearly 90% of women borrowers returning for repeat financing, signalling growing trust in formal credit channels
RBI revises dividend norms for commercial banks, links payouts to capital strength
RBI updates dividend rules for banks, linking payouts to capital strength and adjusted profit after tax ratios.
FCNR, NRE incentives seen boosting dollar inflows amid rupee pressure
Flight cancelled? Amid IranIsrael conflict, know DGCA refund timeline, free cancellation rules
How do I decide which mutual fund schemes to continue with and which ones to exit?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: How should investors decide which mutual funds to continue with, pause, or exit? Which red flags signal its time to move on?
PGIM India Mutual Fund restricts subscription in its 3 international funds
PGIM India Mutual Fund is placing temporary restrictions on subscriptions for three international funds. This measure is to prevent exceeding overseas investment limits. Transactions received after March 9, 2026, will not be processed. Existing Systematic Investment Plans will continue. Other transactions like switches and redemptions remain unaffected. This follows previous reopenings and suspensions of subscriptions in these funds.
IDFC First Bank pays additional 55 crore in Chandigarh fraud case
The bank vows to pursue actions against the perpetrators to recover our dues
Despite international crude oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel due to Middle East tensions, top government sources confirmed no immediate hike in petrol and diesel prices. Oil marketing companies will absorb the current cost strain, while the government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply.
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: MCX and IGL among stocks bought and sold in February
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund added Indraprastha Gas and Mahanagar Gas to its portfolio in February while exiting Multi Commodity Exchange. The fund also reduced stakes in Balkrishna Industries, Dr Reddys Laboratories and Power Grid, while increasing exposure to several large-cap stocks including HDFC Bank, Infosys, ITC and TCS.
63,000 restaurants under income tax scanner: Saksham campaign urges ITR updates by March 31, 2026
The Income Tax Department has identified 63,000 restaurants for potential income under-reporting. A nationwide survey revealed suppression of sales amounting to Rs 408 crore. Restaurants are urged to file updated returns by March 31, 2026, under the Saksham Nudge campaign. This is a chance to correct mistakes before stricter actions are enforced.
Inflation is eating your savings. Heres how to beat it.
Saving diligently does not guarantee wealth. Inflation erodes savings, making real returns negligible. Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) offer a disciplined approach to investing. Regular investments through SIPs, even small amounts, leverage rupee cost averaging. Staying invested through market volatility is key to long-term wealth accumulation. Axis Mutual Fund emphasizes this 'Stay Invested' philosophy for achieving financial goals.
State Bank of India shuns Russian crude oil payments despite US reprieve
The state-owned bank believes that engaging in such business could expose it to risks as it has a sizable loan portfolio in global markets, and also hurt its reputation, sources said
The All India Trade Union Congress has presented 12 significant demands to the 8th Pay Commission chairperson. Key proposals include a 3.0 fitment factor, restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, and a 6% annual increment. Other demands focus on increased leave encashment, revised DA calculations, and higher compensation for specific employee groups.
Gold ETF inflows tumble 78% MoM to Rs 5,254 crore in February
Gold ETF inflows saw a significant monthly drop of 78% to Rs 5,254 crore in February, despite a 165% year-on-year increase. The total assets under management for gold ETFs also experienced a slight decline. Other passive funds, including silver ETFs and index funds, also witnessed a decrease in inflows.
The government has stated there is no proposal for a separate pay revision committee for Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) employees. This clarifies the stance on demands for a distinct mechanism, similar to the 8th Pay Commission, for CPSE staff. Variations in pay across CPSEs are attributed to differing financial capacities and performance.
AMFI Data: Mutual fund SIP inflows drop 4% to Rs 29,845 crore in February
SIP inflows slipped 4% in February to Rs 29,845 crore, ending a two-month streak above the Rs 30,000-crore mark. Despite the monthly dip, SIP contributions were up 15% year-on-year. Overall equity inflows rose 8% during the month, even as several fund categories showed mixed trends across the broader market.
Planning to invest in GIFT City? 7 myths and facts before global exposure
Investing in GIFT City is simpler than many believe. You do not need a foreign bank account or face complex tax filings. RBI limits do not apply, and it is open to retail investors. Redemptions are quick with no lock-in. Costs are transparent. GIFT City provides a tax-efficient route for global diversification, reducing country-specific risks.
New draft income tax rules for 2026 are set to change how salaried employees are taxed. Calculations reveal significant potential tax savings under the revised old tax regime. Employees with CTCs of 15 lakh, 20 lakh, 30 lakh, and 50 lakh can see reduced tax outgo. The changes affect benefits like motor car perquisites and HRA.
AMFI Data: Equity mutual fund inflows rise 8% to Rs 25,977 crore in February
Equity mutual fund inflows surged 8% to Rs 25,977 crore in February, though down 11% year-on-year. Flexi-cap funds led with Rs 6,924 crore, while midcap and smallcap funds also saw significant interest. Sectoral and thematic funds experienced a substantial 187% monthly inflow jump.
The deadline for the final advance tax payment is March 15, 2026. This payment is crucial for taxpayers to avoid interest and penalties. Advance tax is paid in instalments throughout the financial year. Individuals and businesses with a tax liability of Rs 10,000 or more after TDS must pay.
AIBOA urges Telangana to hold on to IDBI Bank property in Rangareddy district
Government of undivided Andhra Pradesh had allotted 50 acres of land bearing Survey No 91 in Gachibowli village, Serilingampally Mandal, Rangareddy district
Looking for best mutual funds? Here are top 10 performers for February 2026
A look at the top 10 best-performing mutual funds for February 2026 to help investors identify strong investment opportunities.
Kotak Mahindra Bank eyes M&A to deploy excess capital
CEO Ashok Vaswani says lender has capacity for deals exceeding $1 billion
What if restaurant forces you to pay service charge? Is it mandatory? know your rights
The Allahabad High Court has ordered the demolition of a dangerous building in Varanasi, upholding public safety over tenancy rights. Tenants were directed to vacate the property, with the court stating their rights cannot obstruct the necessary demolition of the unsafe structure. The court clarified that tenants can seek relief under tenancy law while demolition proceeds.
Side hustles to snowball strategy: An 8-step beast mode guide to crush debt faster
Offset losses, book tax-free gains: 7 smart tax harvesting moves investors should know
IDFC First Bank pays 645 crore to settle claims tied to suspected fraud
The mid sized lender said it has paid 55 crore more than its initial estimate of 590 crore
Silver and gold ETFs surged on Tuesday, with Tata Silver ETF jumping nearly 10% and Zerodha Gold ETF gaining 3%. This rise was fueled by a weaker U.S. dollar and indications of a potential end to the Middle East conflict, easing inflation concerns. Experts advise a uy on dips strategy using SIPs or ETFs for balanced diversification.
Best small cap mutual funds to invest in March 2026
According to the Sebi mandate, small cap schemes must invest in companies that are ranked below 250 in terms of market capitalisation. These schemes also will have to invest at least 65% in small cap stocks.
Quant Mid Cap Fund adds ICICI Bank, Paytm and 2 others, exits Escorts Kubota and GMR Airports
Quant Mid Cap Fund has strategically adjusted its portfolio in February, introducing ICICI Bank, Paytm, Colgate-Palmolive, and LG Electronics India as new holdings. The fund also divested its entire stake in Escorts Kubota and GMR Airports, while reducing exposure in Godrej Properties and Linde India.
Common empanelment of hospitals to advance in 612 months: Mayank Bathwal
Rupee closes at record low, G-Sec yields rise
The Indian currency ended the day at an all-time low of 92.33 per US dollar, down 59 paise against previous close of 91.74
HDFC Bank emerged as the top earner with over 3,800 crore in 3 years, followed by Axis Bank and ICICI Bank with over 2,700 crore and 1,200 crore respectively
Federal Bank strengthen focus on wealth management business
The Bank and Equirus will continue to collaborate to fulfill the investment needs of UHNI category customers by offering select products and services from the Equirus wealth management suite
Popular UPI credit cards in India 2026: Kiwi, HDFC Bank, IDFC FIRST Bank, Axis Bank offers revealed
New UPI-enabled credit cards offer convenience and rewards. Kiwi, HDFC Bank, IDFC FIRST Bank, and Axis Bank provide options. Users can make payments via UPI apps and earn cashback, reward points, and other benefits. These cards combine UPI's ease with credit card advantages.
The Latest Fixed Deposit Interest Rates: Mar 06, 2026
The Latest Fixed Deposit Interest Rates: Mar 06, 2026
The Latest Home Loan Interest Rates: Mar 06, 2026
The Latest Home Loan Interest Rates: Mar 06, 2026
8 equity mutual funds lose over 10% in 6 months. Do you own any?
Eight equity mutual funds have experienced significant losses, with six of them shedding over 10% in the past six months. Among the biggest losers were Tata Small Cap Fund at -17.71% and two from Motilal Oswal, losing over 16%. Other funds from Invesco, UTI, Mirae Asset, and Samco also saw substantial declines.
This state mandates tenant verification for property owners under new rules, effective from December 2024. Owners must submit tenant documents to the police within five days; failure to do so can result in up to six months' imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000. Police will maintain inspection records to enhance public safety and law and order.
360 ONE Asset closes fifth private credit fund at 3,500 crore
Following the latest close, 360 ONE Asset's private credit business now manages about 15,200 crore ($1.7 billion) in credit assets
Capitalmind Flexi Cap Fund reduce stake in HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Bharti Airtel in February
Capitalmind Flexi Cap Fund reduced its exposure to HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and Bharti Airtel in February while increasing stakes in several stocks including BPCL and Federal Bank. The fund also added seven new companies to its portfolio and exited six stocks as part of its portfolio reshuffle during the month.
YES Bank is adjusting its credit card fee rules. Starting April 1, 2026, higher spending limits will apply before fees are charged on utility, transportation, and digital wallet transactions. These changes aim to benefit cardholders by increasing the threshold for various spending categories. The bank is modifying these thresholds across different card types, offering more flexibility to customers.
Flight disruptions due to the Iran-Israel conflict have led to discounted gold prices in Dubai, presenting potential buying opportunities for Indians. However, experts caution that customs duties, GST, and other charges can significantly erode profit margins, making large-scale arbitrage unlikely.
Paying Rs 50,000+ Rent? You may face Rs 1 lakh in penalties if you ignore this Income tax rule
If your monthly rent crosses Rs 50,000, income tax rules require tenants to deduct tax at source (TDS) before paying the landlord. Many renters are unaware that this responsibility lies with them, not the landlord. Understanding this requirement helps tenants avoid penalties and stay tax compliant.
Subscribers of PPF, SSY, and NPS schemes must complete all financial year-end compliances and investments by March 31. To avoid account inactivation and maintain tax benefits, ensure minimum deposits are made. For PPF, it's Rs 500 annually; for SSY, Rs 250; and for NPS, Rs 1,000.
Swiggy, HDFC Bank launch two new co-branded credit cards with up to 48,000 annual savings
The cards are being rolled out in phases and can be applied for through the Swiggy app or HDFC Banks digital channels
Phanindranath Kakarla takes charge of Arcil as CEO & MD
Kakarla joined Arcil on April 2, 2025, as President under a Board-approved succession plan in order to overlap with Mohapatras tenure for a sufficient period for continuous and smooth transition
Will DA be hiked to 60%? Latest January 2026 hike update explained
Rs 10-cr apartments? Who is driving Indias luxury housing boom? What are the alternatives?
Samir Arora-backed Helios Flexi Cap Fund adds Tata Motors, exits REC and 2 others
Samir Arora-backed Helios Flexi Cap Fund added Tata Motors to its portfolio in February while exiting REC, KPIT Technologies and Oswal Pumps. The fund also increased exposure to several stocks including Lemon Tree Hotels, HDFC Bank and SBI. Its portfolio size fell to 62 stocks while assets under management rose to Rs 6,211 crore.
CIBIL score hit after default? 7 smart moves that can rebuild your credit faster than you think
Gold and silver ETFs saw significant drops on Monday. Precious metal prices opened lower on the MCX. A stronger U.S. dollar pressured bullion prices. Rising energy prices fueled inflation concerns, reducing interest rate cut expectations. These factors overshadowed safe-haven demand amid Middle East conflict. Investors are advised to use dips for accumulation.
Best mid cap mutual funds to invest in March 2026
Mid cap schemes invest in mid cap stocks or in stocks of medium-sized companies. As per Sebi norms, the mid cap mutual funds are mandated to invest in companies that are between 101 and 250 in the market capitalisation. These companies can be leaders of tomorrow. Thats what makes them great bets. If these companies live up to the promise, the market will reward the investors handsomely.
JSW Steel Share Price Live Updates: JSW Steel reports a small negative return
SEBI has introduced a new rule allowing equity mutual funds to invest up to 35% in gold and silver. This move aims to enhance portfolio flexibility and diversification, enabling fund managers to manage risk during volatile markets. Experts believe this will provide a tactical hedge, though excessive exposure could dilute the equity nature of funds.
RBI likely sells dollars to avert rupee slide to record low, traders say
The RBI stepped in before the local spot market opened, helping the rupee rebound slightly from around 92.30 to 92.20 in the interbank order matching system
Infosys Share Price Live Updates: Weekly Performance of Infosys
