38 C 
USD/INR swap auction: Participants place bids for twice the $5 b notified amt
The swap auction was conducted to bolster the RBIs ability to intervene in the forex market
The IRDAI (Corporate Governance for Insurers) Regulations, 2024 have also been amended
Niva Bupa eyes top two spots in retail health insurance space in 3 years
This ambitious growth strategy highlights the increasing competition among standalone health insurance companies
In a significant policyholder-centric move, IRDAI has linked insurance executive pay to customer-centric metrics like claim settlement and grievance redressal. Insurers must now publicly disclose detailed data on claim timelines, complaint handling, and product performance, empowering policyholders to make informed decisions beyond just premiums.
Pune Police have clarified that no 14-day curfew is being imposed in the city. Social media rumours about a curfew starting May 26, 2026, are false. Banks will operate as usual and are not affected by any curfew. Bank holidays are determined by the Reserve Bank of India. Customers should consult the RBI holiday calendar for specific dates.
RBIs $5 billion FX swap subscribed nearly twice over
The central bank accepted 141 bids at the FX swap auction, with the premium cut-off set at 9.10
Digital bank Slice swings to profit in Q4, reports 20 crore PAT
The bank reported a net profit of 48.4 crore, compared with a net loss of 216 crore in FY24-25
These 5 small cap mutual funds deliver over 20% annualised returns in 3 years. Do you own any?
Five small cap mutual funds delivered over 20% annualised returns in the last three years, led by Bandhan Small Cap at 29.1%. Passive small cap index funds also posted strong gains, while several popular active small cap schemes remained laggards with single-digit returns.
What is Retirement Income Scheme in NPS; how do SPR and SUR work?
Under National Pension System's (NPS) Retirement Income Schemes (RIS), subscribers can choose periodic payouts till age 85 via Systematic Payout Rate or Systematic Unit Redemption. The scheme aims to balance regular income, market-linked returns, and corpus longevity through a structured glide path.
Do I need to convert my leasehold DDA flat to freehold to sell it?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I have a DDA flat since 2008, which is leasehold. I now want to sell it. Is it mandatory to convert it to freehold? Do I need the signature of the original allottee?
Gold rate today: Gold prices saw a dip on May 26, 2026, as diplomatic talks between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz offered hopes for a peace agreement. This followed recent US-Iran strikes, influencing market sentiment.
Who are Indias biggest mutual fund managers? Check the top 10 names
ICICI Prudential Mutual Funds Sankaran Naren emerged as the top mutual fund manager by assets under management in the March 2026 quarter, overseeing Rs 1.59 lakh crore. The list of top fund managers managing over Rs 1 lakh crore AUM also included Rajeev Thakkar, Chirag Setalvad, Amit Ganatra, Shreyash Devalkar, and Sailesh Raj Bhan.
RBI, rating firms assess Iran war risks on Indian companies
The Reserve Bank of India is proactively assessing potential borrower stress due to the US-Iran conflict, engaging with local credit rating agencies. Discussions focused on evaluating ground conditions and the need for temporary regulatory relief to safeguard creditworthiness. Authorities aim to prevent economic growth from being hampered by any emerging financial strain.
The Indian Railway Technical Supervisors' Association has proposed a significant change for the 8th Pay Commission. Instead of a single fitment factor, IRTSA suggests multiple multipliers for different employee levels. This aims to create a more balanced salary structure. The association also seeks a new cadre structure and enhanced career progression for technical supervisors.
Bitcoin volatility hits 9-month low as crypto takes breather
The decline comes as Bitcoin struggles to break above $80,000, trading around $77,000 today and still down nearly 40 per cent from its record high above $126,000 set in October
Explained: What are REITs and how do they work? Heres what investors should know
Investors can now gain real estate exposure through REITs, an alternative to direct property purchase. These trusts pool funds to invest in income-generating properties like offices and malls. REITs offer potential returns between fixed deposits and equities, with yields ranging from 6% to 9%. They distribute a significant portion of rental income to unit holders, providing periodic payouts.
New Labour Code: These contract workers may get minimum 2% annual salary hike; check if you qualify
Mutual funds reduced their exposure to private banks for the second consecutive month in April, driven by tactical rotation and near-term earnings and margin concerns. Experts suggest this is a short-term adjustment rather than a structural shift, with banking sector funds experiencing recent declines but offering long-term accumulation opportunities.
Drowning in payday loans? 7 steps that actually stop the cycle
Switched jobs this year? Make sure your new employer is not under-deducting your TDS
The husband, a Chartered Accountant (CA) by profession, had in 2004 filed for a divorce on the ground of cruelty, claiming that wife was not behaving properly; was not doing her household work; she was disobedient towards his parents; her behavior was rude; she was not able to cook; the wife caused him mental stress, all these acts amount to cruelty.
Can your boss deny you a deserving salary hike despite good performance? Labour Code explained
Private sector employees in India face limited legal recourse against appraisal discrimination, especially when it's not gender-based. While constitutional articles and the Code on Wages offer some protection, employers retain wide discretion in determining increments. Proving subjective bias in appraisals is challenging, requiring a comparator, a protected ground, and written evidence.
21-year salary delay case: HC orders payment of Rs 6.71 lakh arrears with restricted interest
A retired government employee's son finally received Rs 6.71 lakh in unpaid salary after a 21-year wait. While the Patna High Court initially ordered interest on the full arrears, a larger bench restricted it to three years preceding the court filing. This decision aligns with Supreme Court precedents on delayed claims.
Bank holiday for Bakrid 2026: Are banks closed on May 27 or May 28? Check state-wise holiday list
Bank holiday: Banks will observe closures for Bakri ID (Id-Uz-Zuha) on May 27 and 28, 2026, with dates varying by state. This divergence follows central and Telangana government decisions to shift the holiday to May 28. Customers should verify local bank holiday schedules before planning transactions.
Rupee makes smart gains on decline in oil prices and central bank support
The Indian currency closed 46 paise stronger at 95.23/24 per US dollar
Sundaram Finance continues to focus on diversification as consolidated net up 10% in FY26
The board declared a final dividend of 24 per share
Pine Labs posts 113 crore profit in FY26
Bets big on AI and global expansion
RBI launches Q-SAFE panel to study quantum technology in banking
The panel will evaluate vulnerabilities in current cryptographic systems and recommend a roadmap for adopting quantum-safe security frameworks
Elias George, new part-time Chairman of Federal Bank
Elias George was serving as an independent director on the board of the bank since September 5, 2023
RBI mandates 3-year cooling-off period for long-serving co-operative bank directors
The amendment aims to prevent directors from bypassing statutory tenure limits through temporary resignations and quick reappointments
Understanding India's evolving crypto discourse
India is actively shaping its digital asset future. Authorities are implementing stricter rules for crypto platforms and transactions. Tax collections are rising, and law enforcement is building capacity. Investor interest is shifting towards long-term allocation. New regulations are formalising real-world asset tokenisation. India is setting a global precedent in this evolving financial space.
8th Pay Commission Lucknow meeting schedule revealed: Last date to apply for June 22-23 meetings
Indian banks seek hedging cost subsidy from RBI to raise dollar funding, sources say
The central bank met with treasury heads of large banks through last week, ahead of a monetary policy review on June 5, where the suggestions were discussed
Gold prices saw a slight increase on Monday, May 25, 2026, influenced by ongoing US-Iran peace talks. Major retailers like Tanishq, Joyalukkas, Kalyan Jewellers, and Malabar Gold & Diamonds reported higher rates for 22k gold. The IBJA also indicated a rise in gold and silver prices compared to May 22, 2026.
SIDBI must evolve from lender to 'market maker' and 'risk-sharing' partner: FM Sitharaman
Sitharaman said the Centre reduced central excise duty on petrol and diesel, resulting in a revenue impact of over 1 lakh crore, to reduce logistics costs and shield businesses from rising global crude prices
Foreign hackers attempted a novel AI-powered cyberattack targeting two-factor authentication using a zero-day exploit. Google's Threat Intelligence Group detected and thwarted this sophisticated plot, which aimed for mass exploitation. The AI-generated exploit exploited a logic flaw in a server administration tool, highlighting a new frontier in cyber threats. Consumers are urged to update software and use stronger authentication methods.
The Karnataka High Court has ruled in favour of exempt trust employees. Those who retired after September 1, 2014, and contributed Provident Fund on actual wages can now claim a higher EPS 95 pension. The court quashed the EPFO's rejection orders. This decision allows eligible employees to exercise joint options for enhanced pension calculations.
Can Rs 2 crore retirement corpus generate Rs 2 lakh monthly income for 20 years after retirement?
Planning your retirement corpus is crucial. A Rs 2 crore fund may not last 20 years with high withdrawals. Experts suggest a bucket strategy for sustainable income. This involves allocating funds for immediate needs, stable income, and growth. Careful planning and realistic withdrawals are key to ensuring your retirement fund lasts.
SIDBI partners with RRBs to expand MSME loans in rural India: CMD Manoj Mittal
Mittal said the initiative combines SIDBI's MSME financing expertise and digital capabilities with the grassroots reach of RRBs to strengthen last-mile credit delivery in rural and semi-urban areas
Pvt banks likely to outperform govt banks in earnings growth over next 2 years: Report
PSU banks could face additional pressure from wage revision provisions in FY28 along with front-loaded Expected Credit Loss (ECL) provisioning in FY27
8th Pay Commission implementation date: When can you get salary hike with arrears?
The 8th Pay Commission is still consulting stake holders on salary, pension and allowance revisions before finalising its report. Once approved, it may be implemented by late 2027, with arrears likely from January 1, 2026. Employee bodies have proposed varying fitment factors. Once the report is submitted, approved and implemented, central government employees will get arrears and increased pay outs.
LIC introduces New Jeevan Sathi joint life plans: Check features, guaranteed additions and benefits
LIC new plans 2026: Life Insurance Corporation of India has launched two new joint life insurance savings plans, LICs New Jeevan Sathi Single Premium and LICs New Jeevan Sathi Limited Premium. These non-par, non-market linked plans offer couples financial protection and long-term savings with guaranteed additions and fixed benefits, ensuring certainty on returns and payouts.
Direct stocks or mutual funds? Expert shares strategy to achieve Rs 7 crore goal in 12 years
An investor's mutual fund portfolio was reviewed, revealing a need for better alignment with long-term goals. Experts advised shifting focus from direct equities to mutual funds, increasing SIPs annually, and diversifying beyond momentum-based index funds to achieve a Rs 7 crore target.
Choosing a crypto exchange in India? Read this first
With fees, security and ease of use all up for scrutiny, WazirX makes a strong case for being the everyday traders go-to platform in Indias crowded crypto market.
235% return on SGB premature redemption date: Gold bond turns Rs 1 lakh investment into Rs 3.35 lakh
The Reserve Bank of India has announced the premature redemption price for Sovereign Gold Bond SGB 2021-22 Series-I, fixed at Rs 15,840 per unit. Investors can redeem these bonds from May 25, 2026, after five years from the issue date. This premature redemption offers an impressive 235% simple return on the initial investment.
Top NPS equity funds offer up to 15% returns in 3 years. Heres the list
Can salary-linked SIPs transform mutual fund investing for salaried Indians? Experts weigh in
Sebi has proposed a framework allowing salaried employees to invest in mutual funds through salary deductions, similar to EPF and NPS. This initiative aims to simplify investing for first-time users, potentially reducing SIP stoppages and boosting monthly inflows by offering a disciplined, automated savings channel.
Best gilt mutual funds to invest in May 2026
Gilt funds are gaining traction among aggressive debt investors. Advisors suggest these funds could deliver strong returns if the RBI cuts interest rates. Gilt funds invest in government securities, carrying no credit risk but high sensitivity to interest rate changes. Investors should be aware of the risks and have a long-term view.
US rental vs Indian commercial: Where should NRIs actually put their money in 2026?
The 4% retirement withdrawal rules are being rewritten; 7 things you need to know
The Karnataka High Court restored ancestral land to three brothers after an outsider, Basappa, falsely mutated his name using a common surname. Basappa claimed ownership based on a supposed 1946 sale deed but failed to produce any proof. The court ruled in favor of the brothers, declaring them joint owners and restraining Basappa from interfering with their possession.
SBI strike on May 25 and 26? Will State Bank of India branches be open or closed for two days?
State Bank of India branches will operate as usual on May 25 and 26, 2026. The planned two-day strike by the All India State Bank of India Staff Federation has been postponed. Customers can access all regular banking services without disruption. This decision ensures continuity for banking operations across the nation. The deferral addresses concerns about employee-related issues.
Is it time to exit long-duration bond funds?
The RBIs rate-cut cycle is behind us. Experts foresee 5075 bps of hikes. Your bond portfolio needs to reflect that.
Why long-term SIP investors rarely lose money
A 10-year SIP investor has zero chance of losing money, while a 4-year investor has an 80% probability of earning over 10%. The ET WealthCrisil SIP Study 2026 crunches the numbersand this year, puts them through a market crash.
What happens when investors stop SIPs during crises
From a cancer diagnosis in Kolkata to a layoff in Bengaluru to Covid panic in Agrareal investors, real crises, and the real cost of walking away.
International funds soar, but access stays limited
Yet, investment restrictions imposed on overseas exposure limits continue to constrain fresh inflows. While SIPs remain largely open, lump-sum investments are still restricted in many schemes.
Free airport lounge access now comes at a cost
The logic is simple: lounge access has become a heavily used perk. Banks earlier assumed that only premium customers or frequent flyers would visit lounges regularly. Instead, many customers signed up purely for lounge access, often with a fee waiver and otherwise using the cards sparingly otherwise
2-hour hospitalisation: What health insurance covers
New health plans cover treatments requiring two hours of hospitalisation, but exclusions remain critical.
Why financial transparency matters in relationships
Without a definition of priority and discretion, many households suffer from ad hocism. How should they spend for the common good without sustained disagreement? How much is available to spend discreetly without being questioned? The definition and space are critical.
Metals dominate sector indices in volatile 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 domestic market sectors. By Sameer Bhardwaj.
RBI weighs measures to stabilise rupee
The Reserve Bank of India is exploring multiple options to stabilize the rupee, which recently hit a fresh low. These include a potential interest rate hike, increased currency swaps, and raising dollars from overseas investors through deposit schemes and sovereign bonds. Policymakers recognize the rupee's rapid depreciation and are prioritizing its stabilization.
Delinquency vs default: Know the difference
If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, heres a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 104th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains the difference between the terms used for unpaid loans.
A 10-year SIP investor has zero chance of losing money, while a 4-year investor has an 80% probability of earning over 10%. The ET WealthCrisil SIP Study 2026 crunches the numbersand this year, puts them through a market crash.
Crude awakening: Chemical firms face margin pressure
Rising crude oil prices are pressuring chemical sector margins due to increased feedstock and energy costs. Despite this, the Nifty Chemicals index shows resilience, outperforming the broader market. Analysts remain constructive on the long-term outlook, favoring specialty chemicals and companies with strong fundamentals and clear revenue visibility.
Insist on Tata Sons time-bound listing: InGovern tells RBI
Says it remains the only CIC that has been non-compliant with the RBI regulations
Equity MFs gain over 5% last week with international funds leading. Check top 7 with over 3% return
5 equity mutual funds offer over 19% annualised return on SIP investments in 10 years. Check details
Wifes MBA degree or past employment with MNCs cant stop her from demanding maintenance, rules HC
An Allahabad High Court ruling states a wife's education or earning potential does not disqualify her from maintenance. The court considered a case where a husband argued his wife's MBA and past jobs meant she could earn. The court emphasized her current inability to maintain herself and the husband's financial status.
Two friends were left stranded in Indonesia after an airline preponed their flight without prior notification. The Chandigarh State Consumer Commission ordered the airline to pay Rs 50,000 in compensation and refund the full ticket cost with interest, acknowledging the deficiency in service and the passengers' distress.
RBI's record dividend may help govt manage rising subsidy burden amid West Asia crisis: Experts
DK Srivastava, Chief Policy Advisor at EY India, said the higher surplus transfer could help the government partly manage rising subsidy expenses
Bandhan Small Cap among top 5 smallcap funds with highest risk-adjusted returns. Check details
Bandhan Small Cap Fund topped the list of small cap schemes with the highest Sharpe ratio, indicating superior risk-adjusted returns over three years. ITI Small Cap Fund, Invesco India Smallcap Fund and two smallcap index funds also delivered strong performance with balanced risk metrics.
Intermediary commissions take toll on insurance cos profit: Praxis study
Indias top insurers run combined ratios of 110113%, spending more than they earn on every policy while their global D2C counterparts operate profitably at 8489%
PPFAS Mutual Fund introduces choti SIP in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap, Large Cap and 3 other schemes
PPFAS Mutual Fund introduced the Rs 250 choti SIP facility across five schemes to encourage first-time investors and improve financial inclusion. The initiative allows eligible investors to start monthly SIPs with low-ticket investments under specific conditions prescribed by SEBI and AMFI.
Financial experts advise first-time SIP investors to focus on diversified equity mutual funds for long-term goals, avoid panic during volatility, limit exposure to sectoral funds, and rely on professional fund managers for balanced asset allocation and disciplined wealth creation over time.
A bus employee died after falling from the bus roof where he slept due to a lack of rest room facilities at Ghodasar bus station. The Gujarat High Court upheld a compensation award of Rs 6.52 lakh with interest and penalty, applying the principle of notional extension of employment.
FD rate up to 8% for senior citizens investing for three years; Know list of banks
Senior citizens can secure fixed deposit interest rates up to 8 percent for a three-year investment. Several small finance banks are offering this attractive rate for deposits up to Rs 3 crore. Investors should be aware of TDS rules and the option to submit Form 15H to avoid deductions if their total income is below taxable limits.
Executing a Will in India is often more complex than believed, involving numerous institutions and documentation hurdles. Nominees do not automatically become owners, and digital assets present new challenges. While probate is now voluntary, it remains advisable for dispute prevention, and meticulous documentation is crucial to avoid lengthy delays in asset transfer.
Gold prices saw a slight fluctuation this week. 22k gold rates at Tanishq, Joyalukkas, Kalyan Jewellers, and Malabar Gold & Diamonds are provided for May 22, 2026. IBJA data shows a marginal increase in gold prices from May 18 to May 22, 2026. Silver prices, however, declined significantly during the same period.
New PAN norms 2026: Where quoting is relaxed and where its now mandatory
New Income Tax Rules, 2026 have relaxed PAN quoting for several transactions, including cash deposits and debit card applications. However, PAN is now mandatory for certain property transactions and annual cash withdrawals exceeding Rs 10 lakh. Form 97 replaces Form 60 for declarations without PAN.
Wars, Oil and Wealth: The world adapts faster than we think, lessons for equity investors
India today is a more than four-trillion-dollar economy with stronger external reserves, wider energy relationships, greater diplomatic reach and a far more diversified economic structure than in earlier decades. Higher oil prices may affect inflation, current account balances and near-term sentiment, but they are unlikely to derail the broader growth trajectory of the country.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on May 23, 2026?
Bank holiday today: Planning a bank visit today, May 23, 2026? First check whether banks are open in their city, as closures may vary depending on the weekly holiday schedule and state-specific holidays.
RBI approves ICICI Bank CEO Sandeep Bakhshi reappointment for two more years
Bakhshi, who has led the bank since 2018, was earlier approved by the banks board subject to RBI clearance
SBI union defers nationwide strike planned for May 25 and 26
SBI assured its customers that all regular banking services would function without disruption.
Net FDI rises in FY26 on higher gross inflows; portfolio investment flows weaken
Outward direct investments by Indian companies rose to $33.3 billion from $28.2 billion in FY25.
Global uncertainty slows overseas remittances under LRS in FY26: RBI bulletin
According to RBI data, total outward remittances under LRS fell by 2% year-on-year to $28.9 billion in FY26, down from $29.6 billion in FY25
