13 C 
Indias largest Bank has placed capital requirements for the eight identified sunrise sectors at about 100 lakh crore over the next five years
Level playing field needed between bank deposits and other financial instruments, says SBI Chief
As on January 26, 2026, the y-o-y deposit growth of all scheduled banks at 10.61% was 237 basis points lower than credit growth of 12.98%
ESAF Small Finance Bank posts 7 crore net profit in Q3 FY26
The total business stood at 44,686 crore as of December 31, 2025, registering a year-on-year growth of 10%
From Digital to Intelligent: Indias Tax Confidence Takes the AI Leap
While Budget 2026 may further accelerate Indias AI journey, Tax leaders can stay ahead to turn Tax complexity into insights, clarity and control
DA for central government employees is likely to rise to 60 per cent from January 2026, while attention now shifts to Union Budget signals on the 8th Pay Commission rollout. Over 1.1 crore employees and pensioners await clarity on future salary and pension revisions.
Gold & Silver ETFs fall sharply as dollar rises: What should investors do?
Gold and silver ETFs experienced a sharp decline following a significant selloff in precious metals, with spot gold falling 5.4% and silver dropping 10.7%. This correction was attributed to a strengthening US dollar and profit-booking after a strong January rally. Experts advise caution due to near-term volatility but maintain a bullish long-term outlook.
Mutual fund NFOs: 5 new funds will open for subscription this week. Check key details
Five new mutual fund NFOs are opening for subscription this week across ETFs, index funds, sectoral funds, and funds of funds. Offerings include defence, consumption, services, and multi-asset strategies from Mirae Asset, HDFC, Kotak, and DSP, giving investors fresh options across themes and risk profiles.
UAE residents investing in Indian mutual funds can claim tax benefits. They must obtain a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the UAE. Filing Form 10F is also crucial if the TRC lacks required details. This helps in claiming exemptions under the India-UAE DTAA. Excess tax deducted at source can be refunded. Following these rules avoids potential tax notices.
UAE residents investing in Indian mutual funds can claim tax benefits. They must obtain a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the UAE. Filing Form 10F is also crucial if the TRC lacks required details. This helps in claiming exemptions under the India-UAE DTAA. Excess tax deducted at source can be refunded. Following these rules avoids potential tax notices.
INR Check: What history reveals about gold, silver and market crashes
Budget 2026: Mutual fund industry seeks debt indexation return, ELSS relief and MF pension schemes
Ahead of Budget 2026, the mutual fund industry has urged the government to restore debt fund indexation, offer ELSS tax relief under the new regime, and allow pension-oriented MF schemes. Experts also expect tax stability, fiscal discipline, and policy clarity to boost long-term investing and investor confidence.
SBI, HDFC Bank, PNB and ICICI Bank changes kicking in February 2026: What customers should know
FD rate up to 8% for senior citizens investing for five years; Know the full list of banks
Senior citizens can still secure fixed deposit (FD) interest rates up to 8% for a five-year term with select banks, including Suryoday Small Finance Bank. While TDS is deducted if FD interest exceeds Rs 1 lakh annually, senior citizens with zero tax liability can submit Form 15H to avoid this deduction.
A Bengaluru fruit dealer successfully challenged a tax notice for unexplained cash credit. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Bangalore ruled in his favor, stating that tax authorities need more than just a claim of unexplained cash. The tribunal accepted the dealer's business as genuine, allowing his cash deposits to be treated as business receipts.
Builder skipped mandatory RERA insurance? Why homebuyers face big risks and what to do now
Builders are legally required to secure insurance for housing projects under RERA Section 16. This insurance covers land title and construction until possession is handed over. If builders neglect this mandate, homebuyers are left unprotected against potential losses. Karnataka RERA has ruled that builders cannot shift blame for uninsured losses to homeowners.
Saturday bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed today on January 31, 2026?
Banks in India will be closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, and on national holidays like Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti in 2026. While physical branches remain shut on these days, digital banking services will continue to be available to customers.
Average ticket size of policies increased 13% in Q3FY26, backed by GST exemption, says Niva Bupa CFO
On a like-to-like basis, total business grew 31 per cent, and retail business grew 43 per cent in Q3
World Bank and India announce new Country Partnership Framework
This was announced when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met the World Bank group President Ajay Banga
Canara Bank leans on higher-yield retail, agri and MSME loans to cushion rate-cut impact
Pricing discipline, improved asset quality key to protecting margins in a softer rate cycle, says MD, CEO, and Executive Director, Hardeep Singh Ahluwalia
Non-food bank credit growth robust at 14.4% in Dec 2025
Banks credit to industry posts 13% growth
BoBs Q3FY26 net up 4.5% at 5,055 crore
The public sector bank profit growth came amid decent growth in total deposits (10.3 per cent y-o-y) and global gross advances (14.7 per cent)
Aim to achieve near 4% credit cost next quarter, says Satin Creditcare CMD
Bank employee unions, including AIBEA, AIBOA, and BEFI, will join a nationwide strike on February 12, 2026, protesting new labor codes and perceived attacks on workers. They oppose provisions allowing employers to terminate staff without authority approval and advocate for a five-day work week, citing unfair practices compared to other financial institutions.
The Economic Survey 2025-26 attributes record gold prices in 2025 to US tariff announcements, global policy uncertainty, and a weakening dollar. Despite a recent dip, the survey suggests precious metal prices may continue to rise due to sustained demand as safe-haven assets amid global uncertainties.
Intellect Design Arenas platform-led model boosts revenue growth in Q3FY26
Total income for Q3 FY26 stood at 753 crore, a 21% growth from the 621 crore in Q3FY25
India's direct tax strategy is shifting towards broader participation and better compliance, not rate hikes, according to the Economic Survey. Expect stability and fewer surprises for taxpayers in Budget 2026. The focus is on system clean-up and nudges over notices, encouraging voluntary compliance and simplifying tax administration for a growing taxpayer base.
Looking for gold and silver based ETFs with investment horizon of 3 years? Check 5 toppers
Gold and silver based ETFs have delivered strong returns over a three year period amid global uncertainty. Data from MF Screener highlights the top five fund of fund options across gold and silver categories for medium term investors.
How better training is changing Indias health insurance conversations
Indias post-Covid customers are asking tougher questions about health insurance, compelling agents to become true advisors instead of transactional sellers. Heres how structured training, clearer communication and local-language explanations are transforming frontline advisory. And why that shift is key to preventing claim shocks and building long-term trust.
Top 5 flexi-cap mutual funds offer over 20% CAGR in 3 years
India's GIFT City attracts Lloyd's and other global reinsurers, sources say
Major global reinsurers, including Lloyd's of London, are seeking Indian regulatory approval to establish operations in GIFT City, a low-tax financial hub. These companies aim to tap into India's substantial insurance market by offering specialized products and benefiting from favorable tax treatment and regulatory alignment.
JioBlackRock Sector Rotation Fund opens for subscription: 10 things to know
Citigroup India said to hire Khurana to head commercial banking
The position opened up after veteran banker Bhanu Vohra departed in July to join the Indian unit of global consulting firm BDO
Groww among bidders for Prudentials India asset management firm
Global asset managers are investing in India to take advantage of its ongoing equity boom
Buying a Plot? These legal checks can save you from years of court trouble
Every mutual fund has offered positive XIRR on SIP investments in the last five years, an analysis by ETMutualFunds showed. Nearly 208 equity funds have completed five years of existence in the industry, of which 177 gave double-digit XIRR, and three gave over 20% XIRR in the said time horizon.
Manappuram Finance posts 58% rise in gold loan AUM to 38,754 crore
The total AUM of the company rose 17.88% to 52,125.31 crore; Non-gold loan businesses accounted for 28.74%
HDFC Bank is revising its Infinia metal credit card reward point redemption policy from February 1, 2026, allowing a maximum of five redemptions per month. Previously, there were reports of a lower limit. The card offers five reward points per Rs 150 spent, with higher points for Smartbuy purchases.
Top 10 AMCs gold ETF AUM crosses Rs 1.5 lakh crore in January. Check details here
Gold ETF boom: AUM of the top 10 AMCs crosses Rs 1.5 lakh crore in January as investors flock to safe-haven assets.
Some steam left from last year's Budget - Meaningful reliefs on the way from Budget 2026
In the last few budgets, the government's aim has been to promote the New personal tax regime (NPTR) which led to almost 72% of taxpayers opting for NPTR while filing tax returns for fiscal year 2023-24. The government will continue its focus to promote NPTR in 2026 also.
India's crypto community eagerly awaits Budget 2026. Investors and experts hope for a fairer tax regime for Virtual Digital Assets. Current regulations are seen as complex and costly. Expectations include rationalizing the 1% TDS and allowing loss set-offs. This budget could be a turning point for crypto taxation in India.
Cholamandalam announces GWP of 2,337 crore for 3rd quarter
This quarter, the company posted an increase from 2,057 crore reported during the same period in the previous financial year
Railway-focused mutual funds lose up to 8% since last Budget. Is 2026 time to stay invested or exit?
Since the last Union Budget, 45 stocks have become multibaggers. As the next budget approaches, analysts are identifying sectors poised for growth. Infrastructure, defence, renewable energy, and manufacturing are key areas to watch. Targeted government spending and policy signals are expected to drive stock performance.
Paytm posts third straight profit as business bounces back
Consolidated net income was 225 crore ($24.5 million) in the quarter through December, Paytm said Thursday in a disclosure to stock exchanges
Best dynamic bond funds to invest in January 2026
If you are planning to invest for three to five years, but dont want to take a call on interest rates, you can bet on dynamic bond funds. Kotak Dynamic Bond Fund, one of the recommended schemes, has been in the third quartile for the last 20 months. ICICI Prudential All Seasons Bond Fund has been in the second quartile for the last 20 months. Please follow our monthly updates to keep track of your investments
India grants EU banks access to open 15 branches under FTA
The country has also provided 100 per cent FDI (foreign direct investment) commitments in the insurance sector and 74 per cent for banking services
The Chhattisgarh High Court ruled that an unmarried adult daughter is legally entitled to maintenance from her father, even if he has remarried and has other children. The court ordered a government teacher father to pay Rs 5 lakh for his 25-year-old daughter's wedding expenses and Rs 2,500 monthly maintenance until she marries or becomes self-sufficient.
The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal in Mumbai has ruled in favour of Mr. Nilawar. The tribunal cleared him of unexplained cash credit charges amounting to Rs 11 crore. Evidence including diaries and receipts were deemed explainable. This decision overturns the Assessing Officer's additions. The tribunal emphasized that suspicion alone cannot replace proof in tax matters.
Workplace gossip, secret recordings, POSH probe: how Bombay HC ruled in managers favour
A manager, Mr. Kumar, recorded women colleagues gossiping, leading to a sexual harassment complaint. The POSH committee cleared him of sexual harassment but recommended disciplinary action. The Bombay High Court ruled the committee exceeded its jurisdiction, quashing the reprimand and stating no action could be recommended if sexual harassment wasn't proven.
Strong local flows into funds offset volatile overseas money
Mutual funds, driven by consistent household inflows via SIPs, have become a cornerstone of India's equity market, offsetting volatile foreign investor flows. Domestic institutional investors, including mutual funds and insurance companies, now hold a larger share of equities than foreign portfolio investors, marking a significant shift in market dynamics.
Aadhaar vs Passport: 12 key differences that set 12-digit ID apart from citizenship-bearing booklet
Aadhaar and passport are often seen as comparable identity documents, but Indian law treats them very differently. This explainer outlines the legal, verification and citizenship-related distinctions between the two.
Niva Bupa Health Insurance posts Q3 net loss of 87.64 crore, gross premium rises 55%
Niva Bupa Health Insurance reports Q3 net loss of Rs 87.64 crore, despite a 55% rise in gross premium
Banks Q4 NIM to remain range-bound as repo cut transmission occurs on MCLR-linked loans
Banks focusing on growing CASA, high yielding book to protect margins
India's tax collection saw a major boost through data-driven nudges. The NUDGE initiative guided taxpayers to correct claims, leading to over Rs 119 crore additional tax from HRA. Foreign asset declarations and 80GGC donations also increased significantly. This approach promotes voluntary compliance, reducing friction and litigation for a more efficient tax system.
ICICI Bank is implementing significant credit card benefit changes effective February 1, 2025. Key updates include the discontinuation of BookMyShow movie benefits on select cards and revised reward point structures for transport and insurance spends.
SMFG India Credit partners with Google for collateral-free loans via GPay
Through this collaboration, loans will be disbursed in minutes to eligible Google Pay users who apply for a loan through the app
Budget 2026: Tax rebate under old vs new tax regime and what experts expect from Finance Minister
Central government employees and pensioner bodies, associated with CCGEW, have threatened a one-day strike on February 12, 2026, if their demands are not met. These include incorporating their suggestions into the 8th Pay Commission's Terms of Reference and demanding 20% interim relief from January 1, 2026.
India's Economic Survey reveals significant tax relief for households has been provided, with the fiscal deficit falling below target. Experts offer differing views on future tax cuts, with some suggesting a shift towards stability and incremental rationalization rather than sweeping rate reductions. The survey emphasizes delayed gratification for long-term national gain.
Despite the push for digital transformation, customer acquisition continues to depend heavily on expensive intermediary networks
Canara Bank Q3FY26 profit climbs 26% as slippages ease, NPAs fall
The banks NII rose marginally by 1.1 per cent to 9,252 crore, while NIM for the quarter stood at 2.50 per cent
HDFC Mutual Fund announces change in fundamental attribute of its non-cyclical consumer fund
Under the revised mandate, the fund will allocate 80100% of its assets to equity and equity-related instruments of companies in the consumption and consumption-related or allied sectors.
NFO Alert: Mirae Asset launches two BSE India Defence-based passive funds
Mirae Asset Investment Managers (India) has launched two BSE India Defencebased passive funds: the Mirae Asset BSE India Defence ETF and its ETF FOF. The NFOs open on February 2, the ETF closes on February 10 and the FOF closes on February 16, 2026. The schemes will reopen for continuous transactions later in February.
EPFO wage ceiling hike 2026: Will government raise EPF wage limit from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000?
The government is looking at raising the Employees' Provident Fund wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000. This move aims to bring more workers under the social security net. The proposal is being fast-tracked following a Supreme Court directive. If approved, the new limit could be effective from April 2026. This change will expand mandatory PF coverage and strengthen the fund's corpus.
Gold is talking, silver is screaming: Is it time to rebalance your precious metal investments?
Gold and silver have hit record highs, but WhiteOak Capital MF warns this isnt a time to chase the rally. Its report says gold is talking signalling macro risks while silver is screaming, indicating speculative excess. Investors may be better off taking profits, rebalancing and reallocating strategically.
RBI defers plan to mandate climate risk disclosures by banks, sources say
The Reserve Bank of India has paused plans for banks to disclose climate change risks. This move impacts global efforts towards a low-carbon economy. The proposed rules, discussed since 2022, aimed for banks to report loan portfolio risks and mitigation strategies. Implementation was expected from fiscal year 2027. The central bank cited current priorities and potential costs for corporates.
The Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights a sharp rise in equity and mutual fund allocation in household savings, driven by a sevenfold increase in SIP contributions, signalling a structural shift towards disciplined, long-term investing by Indian households.
Digit Insurance disburses moisture index-based parametric insurance to Rajasthan farmers
The claim has been paid to farmers in over 30 villages in Tonk and will benefit 500 farmers
Economic Survey raps insurers for high commissions eroding policyholder value
Insurers must prioritise the digitisation of distribution to rationalise acquisition costs and restore value for money for policyholders, the Economic Survey 2025-26 noted.
Indias long-run challenge is to transform into a surplus generating economy: Economic Survey
Economies that generate sustained external surpluses can finance investment cheaply and stably at home
A husband secured a divorce from the Gujarat High Court. His wife's strict refusal to eat onion and garlic, coupled with rigid behavior, was deemed mental cruelty. The court upheld the family court's decision. The wife contested alimony, but the court reviewed the financial aspects. The husband was ordered to pay maintenance.
It has been more than a decade since the introduction of the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act in 2015, and its practical impact is now well established. Be it disclosures under the one-time disclosure scheme, which was introduced with the law, or the flurry of notices and summons that followed and assessment orders, appeals as well as writs constitutionally challenging various provisions of this law in courts.
Realty stocks tumble up to 28% in January ahead of Budget 26; can sops lift the laggards?
Within these five years, January 2025 marked the sectors steepest decline, as the Nifty Realty index plunged 12.45%. Other years were also weak, with declines of 4.69% in 2023, 0.81% in 2022, and 2.61% in 2021. The lone outlier was 2024, when the index posted gains of over 9%.
Credit guarantee schemes should reward portfolio performance, says UGRO Capital chief Nath
Lenders, on their part, must recognise that MSE lending is not mass retail; It requires sector knowledge, prudent assessment, and continuous post-disbursement engagement, Nath said
Employer cant punish you for taking entitled leaves under New Labour Code 2025: know more
New labour code 2025 ensures employees cannot face penalties for utilizing their full leave entitlements. Employers are barred from reducing increments or taking disciplinary action for taking earned, casual, or sick leaves. Performance appraisals must focus on objective metrics, not lawful leave usage. Continued ill-health terminations are permissible but require due process and medical evidence, excluding retrenchment compensation.
ET Wealth Reader's Query: My husband plans to fully fund the purchase of a house, with no financial contribution from me. When we sell the property later, will the entire capital gain be taxed in his name, or will a portion be attributed to me despite no financial input?
Gold ETFs outshine silver ETFs with up to 13% surge amid precious metals rally
Gold ETFs outperformed silver ETFs with gains up to 13% amid a rally in precious metals. Rising geopolitical risks, strong investment flows and tight supply conditions have driven record highs in gold and silver futures on MCX.
International mutual funds have delivered triple-digit gains since Budget 2025, driven by a rebound in US and Asian markets. Experts say the surge reflects a cyclical recovery, not a structural shift. For Budget 2026, investors and AMCs expect policy stability, higher offshore limits, and clearer taxation rules to support global diversification.
From an income tax perspective, the new Income Tax Act, 2025, scheduled to be effective from 1 April, 2026, simplifies language, removes obsolete provisions and consolidates and restructures provisions. While the law itself does not overhaul the individual tax regime, there are always expectations from individual taxpayers before every Budget.
TCS on credit card and forex card under RBI LRS lacks parity: What experts suggest Budget 2026 do?
Foreign spending by Indians faces a tax anomaly. While forex and debit cards incur Tax Collected at Source (TCS) under LRS, international credit card spending remains exempt, creating a regulatory imbalance. Experts anticipate Budget 2026 will address this disparity, aiming for uniform treatment and enhanced transparency in overseas transactions.
The ITAT Ahmedabad ruled in favor of a landlord, striking down a Rs 7 lakh deemed rent addition for five vacant Mumbai apartments. The tribunal stated that if a property is held with the intention to rent but remains vacant despite genuine efforts, deemed rent charges are unjustified. This decision offers relief to property owners facing similar situations.
Gold and silver prices surged sharply as investors sought safety amid a weakening dollar, global bond market stress and rising geopolitical uncertainty, according to Motilal Oswal. With MCX gold and silver trading near record levels, analysts say the rush into precious metals reflects deeper concerns over monetary policy credibility and economic stability.
Experts are urging the government to raise the spending limit for gold purchases requiring PAN or Aadhaar. The current Rs 2 lakh threshold, set in 2016, is now easily crossed due to rising gold prices. This impacts ordinary buyers and small jewellers. An increased limit would ease compliance for genuine customers while maintaining transparency for high-value transactions.
These top 10 AMCs manage over Rs 1 lakh crore of silver ETF AUM in January. Nippon Mutual Fund leads
Indias top 10 asset management companies collectively managed over Rs 1.13 lakh crore in silver ETF assets in January 2026. Nippon India Mutual Fund led the pack, followed by ICICI Prudential and HDFC Mutual Fund, according to NSE data.
8 key Budget 2026 expectations from entrepreneurs on credit, tax and scale
Best short duration mutual funds to invest in January 2026
According to the Sebi mandate, short duration funds can invest in debt instruments which have maturity between one and three years. That means these schemes are meant for short-term investments of up to three years or more. They are somewhat in the middle when it comes to interest rate risk. They are riskier than liquid, ultra short term, and low duration funds.
Bank holiday in Maharashtra: Are banks open or closed in state today on January 29, 2026?
Maharashtra observes three days of mourning after Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's tragic plane crash death. State government offices are closed. Schools, however, will open as scheduled. There may be disruptions and bank closures at local levels due to the last rites of Pawar being performed in Baramati today. Nationalised banks follow the RBI holiday calendar and no holiday has been announced for such banks in Maharashtra today.
