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RBI relaxes NOFHC requirement for promoters of AU Small Finance Bank
So in case the bank or its promoter/ promoter group wants to get into any other business like mutual fund or insurance post becoming a universal bank then they will need to form NOFHC
Federal Bank says arrangement with Equirus Capital for wealth management will be restructured
The Bank and Equirus will continue to collaborate to fulfil the investment needs of UHNI category customers by offering select products and services from the Equirus wealth management suite
International Womens Day 2026: Check these 5 popular government schemes empowering women financially
Central and state governments are implementing various schemes to enhance women's financial security and independence. Initiatives like Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin, Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana, and Subhadra Yojana offer direct financial assistance.
64% women investors with less than Rs 5 lakh income prefer SIP in mutual funds. Check details
Women investors in India are increasingly choosing systematic investment plans for mutual fund investments. Data shows that 64% of women with annual income below Rs 5 lakh prefer SIPs, while the preference for SIPs remains strong across higher income brackets, highlighting the growing adoption of disciplined investing among women.
Following a ban on real money gaming apps, offshore betting platforms are proliferating, exploiting loopholes. Nithin Kamath suggests blocking UPI transactions and bank transfers to curb these scammy apps. The Economic Times Tech graphic details how these platforms lure users with low entry costs and then route funds offshore, leading to withdrawal issues.
Top 10 mutual funds to invest through SIP with investment horizon of 3 years. Check details
Several mutual funds have delivered strong SIP returns over the past three years, led by gold funds and multi-asset allocation schemes. Data from Value Research shows that a monthly SIP of Rs 10,000 in some of these funds would have grown significantly, highlighting the potential of disciplined long-term investing.
SBI launches exclusive $500 million loan facility for women empowerment
The syndicated transaction, first of its kind by SBI, is aimed at supporting gender equality and inclusive economic growth, and is expected to be the largest gender-themed loan globally, bank says
What is the fastest growing thing in finance? SIPs? SIFs? Credit cards? Radhika Gupta answers
Women are emerging as the fastest-growing segment in Indias financial ecosystem, according to Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO Radhika Gupta. Participation by women has surged across mutual funds, equities, insurance and digital payments, reflecting a broader shift toward investment-driven financial planning and increasing financial inclusion across the country.
Karnataka Bank shareholders approve one directors reappointment, reject another
The special resolution seeking the reappointment of Balakrishna Alse S received support from 3,735 members who cast 11,606,1053 votes in favor
Quant Small Cap Fund reshuffled its portfolio in February, adding HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and five other stocks while reducing exposure to Jio Financial Services and three others. The fund also exited Stanley Lifestyles and increased stakes in select companies, reflecting portfolio adjustments amid shifting sector allocations and market conditions.
A Pune man successfully challenged the Income Tax Department, securing a full tax exemption on his Rs 3.21 crore land sale. Despite a technical error of not fully depositing sale proceeds into a special account (CGAS) before filing his ITR, the ITAT Pune ruled in his favor, citing legislative intent to encourage house investment.
HDFC Bank cuts lending rates for select tenures; loan EMIs set to fall for these borrowers
HDFC Bank has lowered its lending rates. Borrowers will benefit from reduced interest costs. The new rates are effective from March 7, 2026. Overnight and one-month MCLRs see a 10 basis point cut. Other tenors are also reduced. This move impacts loans linked to the MCLR regime. Fixed deposit rates have also been revised.
Starting late in mutual funds? Expert shares a Rs 40,000 SIP portfolio strategy for a 50-year-old
Starting mutual fund investments later in life does not mean missing out on wealth creation. An expert outlines a Rs 40,000 monthly SIP strategy for a 50-year-old investor seeking moderate risk, recommending a mix of hybrid, flexi-cap and index funds to balance stability, diversification and long-term growth potential.
Sovereign Gold Bond : The RBI has set a premature redemption price of Rs 16,063 per unit for Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB) 2020-21 Series VI and XII, maturing in March 2026. Investors in Series XII can expect up to a 248% absolute return, while Series VI offers around 217% without factoring in interest.
Share of equity mutual funds in portfolio of women investor surge to 32% in 5 years : Report
Indian women investors are increasingly shifting from fixed deposits to equity mutual funds, with their portfolio share rising significantly. They are now building goal-mapped portfolios, embracing a more sophisticated understanding of risk, and demonstrating maturity during market downturns. AI is aiding their research, but human judgment remains key in investment decisions.
Sebi proposes a voluntary debit freeze for MF folios
Mutual fund investors can soon opt for a voluntary debit freeze facility, enhancing digital security. This feature, rolling out from April 30, 2026, will prevent unit debits until unlocked. Registrar and Transfer Agents will offer this through the MF Central platform for KYC-compliant individuals. AMFI will detail the process and allowed transactions during the lock-in period.
DA hike for January 2026: Has the government announced it yet? Latest update explained
Central government employees and pensioners are keenly awaiting the dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) announcement for January 2026. Despite Holi passing, no official word has emerged. Calculations based on the AICPI-IW suggest a potential 2% hike, raising the DA from 58% to 60%. This adjustment aims to combat inflation, ensuring employees' purchasing power remains stable.
A Karnataka High Court ruling clarified that under the Indian Succession Act, a mother cannot inherit her son's property if he dies intestate and is survived by his wife and children. This contrasts with the Hindu Succession Act, where mothers are Class I heirs and inherit equally with children and widows.
Own a property and need funds? Heres how to unlock lakhs without selling it
Indians facing emergencies can leverage their property for substantial funds through a Loan Against Property. This secured loan offers larger amounts and longer repayment periods compared to personal loans. Lenders assess both the borrower's financial stability and the property's value and legal standing.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on March 7, 2026?
While many states observed Holi holidays, there is a confusion if this Saturday is a working day. Customers needing in-person services like large fund transfers or account openings should visit branches, while routine transactions can be done via ATMs, online, or mobile banking.
UAE residents and expats with significant financial assets should draft and register a Will to ensure their property distribution. Sharia Law governs Muslims, while non-Muslims have statutory distribution, with recent amendments directing intestate estates to charitable endowments if no heirs exist. Options for registration include Dubai Courts, DIFC, and ADJD/ADGM, with varying applicability and costs.
Indian women ride the crypto wave to build portfolio
Homemakers emerge as the second-largest investor group, among women, investing in cryptocurrency with millennial and mid-career women leading the trend
Insurers shift to Ind AS to hail global compatibility, boost investor confidence
IRDAI has proposed implementing new accounting standards from April 1, 2026
Your mutual funds can now be locked: Sebi introduces debit freeze feature for investors
Sebi launches a voluntary lock-in facility for mutual funds, allowing investors to temporarily freeze withdrawals or debits. The feature enhances digital security for both demat and non-demat folios via MF Central.
IT Dept expands reporting framework by including crypto, CBDC
Move aims to ensure that cross-border tax transparency keeps pace with the rapidly evolving digital financial landscape
Aye Finance posts 87% jump in Q3 profit, AUM crosses 6,300 crore
Loan disbursements rise 35% year-on-year to 1,310 crore during the quarter
The Reserve Bank of India has proposed new draft guidelines for customer protection in electronic banking, effective July 1, 2026. These rules aim to offer compensation for small-value online frauds up to Rs 50,000 and ensure zero liability in cases of bank negligence or third-party breaches reported promptly.
Job market today vs 15 years ago: 6 changes shaping your career
Share of credit card outstanding balance in total retail loans declines 60 bps y-o-y to 4.4%
Credit card spending rose by 8.1% year-on-year (y-o-y) in January 2026, to 2.05 lakh crore, driven by sustained e-commerce spending
Got a Rs 7 Lakh PM Mudra loan approval asking for Rs 860? You are being scammed
Scammers are using fake approval letters on social media, claiming eligibility for PM Mudra loans and demanding a fee for release. The Press Information Bureau has confirmed these letters are fraudulent. Mudra, a refinancing agency, does not lend directly to individuals, making any upfront payment request a clear sign of a scam.
14 mutual funds and 2 SIF NFOs are open for subscription now. Check key details
The Federation of National Postal Organisations (FNPO) has proposed a fitment factor of 3.0 to 3.25 for the 8th Pay Commission, aiming to increase the minimum basic salary to Rs 54,000. This recommendation is based on the 15th Indian Labour Conference norms, considering essential consumption baskets and additional modern expenses like LPG and internet.
NFO Update: 360 ONE Mutual Fund launches DynaSIF Active Asset Allocator Long-Short Fund
360 ONE Mutual Fund has launched the DynaSIF Active Asset Allocator Long-Short Fund, a new scheme open for subscription until March 20. This fund aims for long-term growth and income generation by dynamically allocating across equity, debt, commodities, and alternatives, while actively managing risk. It seeks to provide resilient, risk-adjusted returns in the current volatile market environment.
EPFO has announced an 8.25% interest rate for the financial year 2025-26. This rate remains unchanged from the previous year. Employees' Provident Fund members can expect the interest to be credited to their accounts within three to six months following the official government notification.
Women hold just 25% of mutual fund folios, start investing 5 years later than men: Report
Women hold only 25% of mutual fund folios in India and typically start investing five years later than men, according to a report by Lxme and EY India. Smaller ticket sizes and delayed market entry contribute to a persistent wealth gap, highlighting structural barriers in financial systems despite rising banking access.
Divyangjan staff association airs fears over service continuity, protection in IDBI Bank
Any perceived dilution of protection during privatisation could create insecurity across the banking sector for thousands of employees with disabilities
Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund has launched the Apex Hybrid Long-Short Fund, the first strategy under its Specialised Investment Fund (SIF) framework. Targeted at high-net-worth investors, the fund combines equity, debt, and derivatives with a long-short approach, aiming for superior risk-adjusted returns while offering equity-like taxation benefits.
What do Nifty's two back-to-back gap downs of over 1% mean for investors? Let history explain
Nifty 50s back-to-back gap downs of over 1% signal more than short-term volatility, historical data shows. Across nine such events, markets rarely rebound immediately, reflecting institutional selling and macro pressures. Experts advise investors to stay disciplined, avoid aggressive bottom-fishing, and wait for clearer market signals before taking positions.
Is six mutual funds too many for monthly SIP of Rs 8,500? Heres what experts suggest
Investors often overcomplicate mutual fund portfolios with too many schemes. Financial experts advise simplifying SIPs for long-term wealth. Heena, an investor, sought advice on her Rs 8,500 monthly SIP across six funds. A CFP recommended reducing the mix to three funds for better diversification and easier management.
Suryoday Small Finance Bank has updated its fixed deposit interest rates for deposits under Rs 3 crore, effective March 6, 2026. Customers can now earn up to 7.90% annually on a 5-year FD, with senior citizens receiving an additional 0.20% for a total of 8.10%. These revised rates offer competitive yields and flexibility across various tenures.
Bajaj Finserv Share Price Live Updates: Bajaj Finserv's quarterly performance review
Sun Pharma Share Price Live Updates: Sun Pharma's three-month performance shows a downturn.
Titan Company Share Price Live Updates: Titan Company reports impressive returns
Eicher Motors Share Price Live Updates: Eicher Motors' three-month performance shines
Live in Dubai, pay no income tax: What Indians should know about the UAE Golden Visa
The 8th Central Pay Commission is now accepting suggestions. Central government employees and pensioners can submit their views online. The portal is open from March 5, 2026, to April 30, 2026. This commission is crucial for over one crore individuals. Feedback is also sought from ministries, departments, and judicial officers. All submissions must be made via the MyGov portal.
Mirae Asset Mutual Fund has been recognized by the India Book of Records for its extensive financial literacy campaign targeting female students. The 15-day initiative reached nearly 40,000 girl students across 320 colleges, aiming to build early investment habits and financial confidence among young women.
8 anti-layoff strategies and skills you need to survive the 2026 job market
Mumbai to Indore: Will renting save you more money than buying in your city? Heres the math
Sensex slips over 7% this year. Should mutual fund investors continue SIPs or hit pause?
Indian equity markets have seen increased volatility, with the BSE Sensex slipping over 7% this year. Financial experts advise mutual fund investors to continue SIPs during corrections, viewing it as an opportunity to accumulate units at attractive valuations rather than a reason to pause investments.
Best large cap mutual funds to invest in March 2026
According to the Sebi mandate, the large cap mutual funds are mandated to invest in top 100 companies by market capitalisation. Large companies fare better in a volatile market as these companies may be market leaders and resilient to downturns. That is why if you are looking for a relatively safer mutual fund category, you should consider investing in large cap funds.
India's insurance regulator, IRDAI, is proposing a significant shift in financial reporting for all insurers. Starting April 1, 2026, insurance companies will adopt the Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS). This move aims to boost policyholder protection and confidence. It will also bring greater clarity to insurers' financial reporting.
ONGC Share Price Live Updates: ONGC trading session recap
BPCL Share Price Live Updates: BPCL stock performance update
Coal India Share Price Live Updates: Coal India Trading Summary
Equity markets have experienced significant corrections, with indices like the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 showing declines. Despite negative sentiment, experts suggest this period presents an opportunity for investors to rebalance portfolios and consider averaging investments, aligning with long-term goals and risk tolerance.
Delayed EPF dues for 2 years? HC slaps Rs 77,000 penalty on employer under EPFO rules
The Karnataka High Court has penalized an employer 77,000 for delaying provident fund contributions for two employees over two years. The court ruled that the penalty under EPFO rules cannot be less than 25% of the unpaid amount, including interest. This decision adjusted a previous tribunal order, emphasizing adherence to PF regulations.
Pay additional tax, file an updated returnand still face 30% tax and 300% penalty under the Black Money Act? Unless Finance Bill 2026 resolves the mismatch between the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015 and the Income-tax Act, this technical inconsistency could defeat the very purpose of voluntary disclosure.
UAE's inheritance laws are changing for expats in 2026. Non-Muslims dying without a will will see their estates divided equally between spouse and children, or passed to parents/siblings. Previously, assets of heirless expats went to the state; now they'll become charitable endowments. Muslim residents continue to follow Sharia law by default.
RBI data suggest end of repo rate cut transmission into lending rates
Weighted average lending rate on fresh rupee loans of banks) rose 39 bps to 8.67 per cent in January 2026 from 8.28 per cent in December 2025
Travelling to India? Know baggage rules for jewellery, gold, cameras and other high-value items
Gold rates today: The India Bullion and Jewellers Association reported significant drops across various gold purities, with 24K gold falling by Rs 270 per gram. Major jewellery brands also reflected this downward trend in their retail prices.
AI moving beyond support roles could complicate CIO's job: S Naren
S Naren of ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company says AI currently supports investment research but could complicate CIO roles if it begins making decisions. He also discussed balanced advantage funds, cautious IPO exposure, and the appeal of multi-asset allocation funds for diversified investing.
Are you heading into a debt trap? 7 warning signs you shouldnt ignore
From Rs 2 lakh cash payments to Rs 50 lakh deposits: Transactions that trigger SFT reporting
IndusInd Bank treasury head set to exit in April
Banerjee, who has been the head of the global markets group at IndusInd Bank since 2020, has informed the management about his decision, say sources
RBI ramps up support to shield bonds from oil shock
The category, which comprises insurance companies, pension funds, corporates and the RBI, bought bonds worth 20,285 crore on Wednesday, the highest for this segment since February 2021
South Indian Bank launches digitally integrated loan against MF products
Starting at 9.99% per annum, the facility will be available to the banks customers as well as users of digital wealth platforms integrated through its Lending Service Provider ecosystem
Womens Day 2026: Indias leading 3 female portfolio managers. Check how they navigate market cycles
A Morningstar report spotlights three leading women fund managers in IndiaSunaina Da Cunha, Meenakshi Dawar, and Rajasa Kakulavarapu. Through disciplined investment strategies and strong long-term performance across debt, value, and flexi-cap funds, they exemplify the growing influence of women professionals in senior portfolio management roles.
Will stock market rebound after 18-month lull? Radhika Gupta explains what history shows
Radhika Gupta of Edelweiss Mutual Fund shared historical data on market performance. After 18-month periods of stagnation, the Nifty 50 index historically saw significant returns. The data covers 13 instances since 2000. This analysis offers a perspective for investors awaiting a market rebound. Current market conditions are also presented for comparison.
Madhya Pradesh government employees will receive a 58% dearness allowance starting April 2026. This matches the central government's rate. Arrears from July 2025 to March 2026 will be paid in installments from May 2026. Pensioners will also see a dearness relief increase. Meanwhile, Kerala government recently approved a 10% DA hike.
This pension plan offers guaranteed lifetime income combined with market-linked growth potential through up to 40% equity exposure. It also provides flexible premium payment options and immediate or deferred annuity choices, catering to evolving retirement planning needs and ensuring financial security for individuals.
Axis Mutual Fund announces elevation of R Sivakumar as CIO
Axis Asset Management Company has elevated R Sivakumar as Chief Investment Officer following the exit of Ashish Gupta. A founding member of Axis AMC, Sivakumar brings more than 25 years of experience and will lead the fund houses investment strategy, research processes and investment teams as part of the firms internal succession plan.
Tata AIA launches pension plan blending guaranteed income with market-linked returns
The plan allows policyholders to allocate a portion of their annuity to the Nifty 50 index, while the remainder is secured as fixed income
AI-Powered Ionic Wealth crosses $1 billion AUM in 22 months of operations
Ionic Wealth, an AI-driven wealth-tech platform, has achieved $1 billion in assets under management within 22 months. This success stems from its unique omnichannel approach, blending expert advice with advanced technology. The platform offers features like AI-powered virtual assistants and seamless portfolio aggregation, catering to India's burgeoning affluent investor base.
PNB trims ATM cash withdrawal limit by 50% for these debit cards: Check list of impacted cards
Punjab National Bank is adjusting daily ATM cash withdrawal limits for certain debit cards starting April 1, 2026. Customers can now withdraw up to Rs 50,000 or Rs 75,000 daily depending on their card type. These changes aim to enhance security and customer safety. Limits for other card types and POS transactions remain unchanged.
SEBIs mutual fund reforms 2026: 8 big changes that could impact your investments
NFO Alert: Mirae Asset Mutual Fund launches Mirae Asset Silver ETF FOF
Mirae Asset Mutual Fund has launched the Mirae Asset Silver ETF FoF, an open-ended fund of fund investing in the Mirae Asset Silver ETF. The NFO is open until March 18 with a minimum investment of Rs 5,000. The scheme offers investors exposure to silver through a mutual fund structure.
Planning marriage and money: How prenups are emerging as an asset protection tool
A Mumbai man's Rs 2 lakh donation to a political party for tax deduction backfired. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Mumbai disallowed the claim, finding the party engaged in a cash-back scheme. The party, with no verifiable office, allegedly returned donations after deducting a commission, facilitating fraudulent tax claims.
A Mumbai man's Rs 2 lakh donation to a political party for tax deduction backfired. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Mumbai disallowed the claim, finding the party engaged in a cash-back scheme. The party, with no verifiable office, allegedly returned donations after deducting a commission, facilitating fraudulent tax claims.
Goal-based investing: Is a guilt-free binge fund the best way to protect your long-term investments?
MF Tracker: Kotak Small Cap Fund turns Rs 10,000 SIP to Rs 1.78 crore in over 2 decades
Kotak Small Cap Fund has demonstrated significant long-term wealth creation, turning a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP into Rs 1.78 crore over two decades. Despite recent market volatility and negative returns in specific years, the fund's quality-focused strategy and consistent management have driven strong performance across market cycles.
Gold and silver ETFs rose sharply on Thursday as escalating Middle East tensions boosted demand for safe-haven assets, while a weaker US dollar further supported bullion prices. Experts advise investors to stay disciplined with SIPs, rebalance portfolios toward resilient funds, and consider gold as a hedge amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and volatility.
Top 10 mutual funds to invest in March 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. There are caveats: read till the end to ensure you are picking up the best scheme for you.
Best mutual funds to invest through SIPs in March 2026
New investors seeking ready-made mutual fund portfolios can find guidance for conservative risk profiles. ETMutualFunds has curated SIP baskets for various investment amounts, ranging from Rs 2,000 to over Rs 10,000, focusing on top-performing funds based on returns, consistency, and risk.
A woman sought 5.2 crore compensation from a salon for a bad haircut, claiming it impacted her career and confidence. After an eight-year legal battle, the Supreme Court awarded her 25 lakh, stating her evidence did not justify the higher claim. The court emphasized that compensation requires reliable proof of actual loss, not just assumptions.
