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The Income Tax Department is taking action against taxpayers who filed returns with fake deductions. Investigations revealed intermediaries helped people claim fraudulent refunds by donating to fake political parties and charities. The department is using data analytics to identify suspicious claims. A Nudge campaign is underway, urging taxpayers to correct their filings before enforcement action.
Ramco Systems among top 6 unique stocks held by mutual funds in November
6 Unique stocks refer to those stocks held by only one fund house.
In a significant ruling, the Andhra Pradesh High Court upheld the dismissal of a CISF constable who entered into a second marriage while still legally wed to his first wife. The court deemed this act as a deliberate instance of bigamy, constituting serious misconduct under the law.
Silver prices have reached historic highs. Axis Mutual Fund warns of potential corrections and volatility in 2026. Factors like overvaluation, reduced physical demand, and ETF outflows could impact prices. While the outlook remains constructive, investors should be aware of risks. Central bank preferences and industrial substitution also pose challenges. Gold's performance is also discussed with similar caution for 2026.
Telangana state holidays 2026 announced: Check Telangana state govt holiday list for 2026
The Telangana government has released its 2026 holiday list for state government employees, including general and optional holidays. All state offices will be closed on Sundays and second Saturdays. Employees can avail up to five optional holidays from the provided list, irrespective of religious affiliation.
A top-inflow equity flexi-cap fund that drew strong investor interest in November as part of broad robust net inflows into Indias equity mutual funds.
Higher qualification doesnt guarantee higher pay without the higher post: J&K High Court
In a significant ruling, the Jammu and Ladakh High Court has clarified that an employee's salary cannot be escalated simply due to higher qualifications. Instead, compensation is linked to the designated role, irrespective of individual skills. This verdict stemmed from a case involving an orderly who sought higher wages after taking on computer operator responsibilities.
Top AMCs with over 10,000 crore in cash in November, SBI Mutual Fund held one of the largest absolute cash reserves while leading in total equity AUM
As holiday travel abroad looms, Indians face a crucial decision on travel cards due to the rupee's depreciation. Forex cards offer a way to lock in exchange rates, mitigating risks associated with currency fluctuations, unlike credit cards which are subject to daily market changes. Choosing the right card can significantly impact travel budgets.
Fed's Hammack would prefer tighter policy given too high inflation
Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack believes monetary policy should be tighter. She feels current interest rates are around neutral. Hammack would prefer a more restrictive stance to pressure inflation. She indicated this view ahead of a recent rate cut. Hammack will be a voting member of the FOMC next year.
SBI home loan EMIs to reduce as PSU bank cuts lending rates: Check latest SBI EBLR, MCLR, base rates
SBI lending rates: Following the RBI's repo rate cut, State Bank of India has reduced its lending rates across MCLR, EBLR, and RLLR benchmarks. These adjustments, effective December 15, 2025, will lower borrowing costs and EMIs for both retail and corporate customers. SBI also revised its BPLR and base rate.
Pensioners will continue to receive dearness relief (DR) increases even after the 7th Pay Commission's tenure ends. Historically, DR for pensioners rises in tandem with dearness allowances for government employees, with hikes expected twice annually until the 8th Pay Commission's recommendations are implemented.
State Bank of India has revised its fixed deposit and lending rates, effective December 15, 2025. The bank has reduced interest rates on several FD tenures, including a 5 basis point cut for the 2-year to less than 3-year bracket. The Amrit Vrishti scheme also sees a rate reduction for all citizen categories.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on December 13, 2025?
Banks in India will be closed on December 13, 2025, as it is the second Saturday of the month. While physical branches observe specific holidays and second/fourth Saturdays, digital banking services remain accessible. Several regional holidays are also scheduled throughout December 2025.
Laurence Fink, CEO of BlackRock, highlights a critical concern for retirement planning. He emphasizes that traditional savings like bank deposits and fixed deposits often fail to outpace inflation. This erodes purchasing power, jeopardizing a dignified retirement. Fink urges individuals to invest in market-linked options for long-term growth. He believes thoughtful investing is essential for financial security and a comfortable future.
SBI cuts deposit and lending rates after RBI repo rate reduction
The bank has reduced the interest rate on its 23-year term deposits by 5 basis points to 6.40 per cent, while its special 444-day Amrit Vrishti deposit scheme now carries 6.45 per cent, down 15 bps.
IOB to cut lending rates effective December 15
The banks External Benchmark Lending Rate - specifically the Repo linked lending rate - has been cut by 25 basis points from 8.35% to 8.10%
RBIs Sankar rules out role of stablecoins in Indias financial system
Instead of stablecoins, Sankar advocated for Central Bank Digital Currencies as the superior alternative.
Gap between credit and deposit growth widens amid repo rate cuts
Low deposit returns push customers toward equities, bonds and MFs
The proposal for a composite licence, once approved, will be a big shift in the evolution of the sector
What is OCI Card and application process; Check how to use OCI miscellaneous services
PNB Housing Finance names Ajai Kumar Shukla as MD, CEO; shares rise
Shukla, who has more than three decades of experience in housing and mortgage lending, will replace Girish Kousgi
BSE and Department of Posts sign MoU to expand mutual fund access across India
BSE and India Post have signed an MoU to distribute mutual funds through 1.64 lakh post offices, leveraging BSE StAR MFs digital platform to boost financial inclusion, last-mile access, and nationwide investor participation.
Lok Adalat on December 13, 2025: Which cases are allowed and how to file your application
The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) is organizing the 4th National Lok Adalat on December 13, 2025, across India to facilitate swift and cost-effective dispute resolution. This initiative aims to reduce court backlogs by offering a platform for amicable settlements on various civil and compoundable criminal matters. Citizens can register online through their respective state NALSA websites.
24 mutual NFOs collected Rs 3,126 crore in November, sectoral and thematic contributed maximum
Cabinet approves Bill to hike FDI in insurance sector to 100%
The bill may be introduced in the ongoing Winter session of Parliament, which is slated to conclude on December 19
A growing number of mutual fund schemes are piling into the same stocks, signalling strong institutional conviction and boosting retail confidence. As of November 2025, 245 stocks were held by over 100 schemes, with 101 delivering double-digit returns this year and 14 surging more than 50%, including one multibagger. The trend highlights the resilience and momentum of widely owned fund-backed stocks.
India's tax system is set for a major overhaul with the Income-tax Act, 2025. The Finance Bill, 2026, should consider decriminalizing minor tax offenses. This move if made can help reduce taxpayer worry and streamline enforcement. Serious crimes like tax evasion will remain criminal. Reforms will balance revenue protection with taxpayer trust.
Major banks pause digital onboarding as mule account scams surge: Report
Several major banks are reverting to physical verification for new account openings, halting end-to-end digital onboarding. This move aims to combat identity theft and the proliferation of mule accounts, a significant concern for lenders. While some banks are reintroducing branch visits, HDFC Bank continues to invest in enhancing its digital security.
BSES Yamuna cannot deny electricity connection to unauthorised homes until MCD acts: Delhi HC
The Delhi High Court has made a pivotal decision, stating that BSES Yamuna Power is prohibited from terminating electricity connections to unauthorized properties. This ruling ensures that power will be supplied consistently until the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) undertakes specified actions regarding these properties.
Smart Money Tip of the Week: How the 50-30-20 rule helps you take charge of your money
It is essential to strike a good balance between our current needs and future requirements. The amount of money required for future life goals like retirement is so much that it cannot be accumulated during a short period of time and needs dedicated long-term planning. The 50-30-20 thumb rule can be used to guide you on how much to save and spend in a month.
In November 2025, Indian mutual funds witnessed an impressive surge in inflows, marking a milestone as equity funds enjoyed their 57th month of uninterrupted net gains. The rise of hybrid funds was notable, fueled by strategic multi-asset allocations and arbitrage opportunities. Moreover, passive investment options, including gold and silver ETFs, showed remarkable growth.
The Andhra Pradesh government has announced its general and optional holiday list for 2026. State government offices will observe closures on all Sundays and second Saturdays. Employees can select up to five optional holidays from the provided list, with certain festival dates subject to change based on lunar sightings.
Mutual funds sharply reduced cash holdings by over Rs 7,000 crore in November as Nifty scaled record highs, deploying more into equities. Cash levels fell to Rs 2.01 lakh crore, or 4.68% of AUM, with equity AUM rising significantly. A few fund houses, led by PPFAS, still maintain high cash buffers.
Japan's Nikkei climbs on Wall Street relief rally; tech shares slip
Japanese stocks surged on Friday, marking a third consecutive weekly gain, buoyed by positive Wall Street sentiment following a less hawkish US Federal Reserve. The Nikkei 225 closed higher, with the Topix reaching a record. Investors now await the Bank of Japan's policy decision next week, with caution expected early on. Tech stocks saw mixed performance, with some major decliners.
How can I save LTCG tax on my inherited houses and old equity shares?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I own two residential properties in India. One was partly inherited and partly gifted to me two years ago. The second property, purchased around 15 years ago, is jointly owned by me. I seek your advice on how to avail exemption from LTCG tax under these conditions.
Prudential Corporation Holdings is set to make 10,603 crore from the ICICI Prudential AMC IPO, marking an extraordinary 108,170% return on shares bought 20 years ago for 2 each. The firm is selling 4.89 crore shares entirely via OFS at 2,165 apiece, reducing its stake from 49% by 10%.
HDFC Bank UPI downtime: Dates, timings, and services affected in December 2025
HDFC Bank will conduct system maintenance on December 13 and December 21, 2025, from 2:30 AM to 6:30 AM IST. During these four-hour windows, UPI services linked to HDFC accounts will be unavailable. Customers are advised to use the PayZapp wallet as an alternative for payments and transfers.
Physical gold vs Gold ETF: Which gold investment should you choose in 2026?
Hindustan Zinc shares rally 12% in 4 days. Whats powering this surge?
Hindustan Zinc shares surged in four days to Rs 547, driven by soaring silver prices following the US Feds rate cuts. As silver more than doubles this year, analysts say the market is still underestimating Hindustan Zincs leverage to the metal, which contributes nearly half its EBIT. With strong global positioning, improving margins and rising investor interest, the stock is nearing its 52-week high.
Global wealth hotspots: Top 10 cities with the highest number of millionaires and billionaires
Karnataka RERA has ruled that landowners are also considered promoters under the RERA Act. This decision came after homebuyers filed a case for delayed possession. The authority ordered the landowner to pay Rs 6 lakh as interest compensation. The delay occurred because the landowner was involved in a pending partition case, preventing the sale agreement from being signed.
Indias maritime sector at inflection point: A structural opportunity unfolds
Indias maritime sector is entering a structural growth phase, supported by ambitious national visions, strong policy incentives, rising demand aggregation, and expanding shipbuilding and port capacity. As global trade shifts toward Asia and greener vessels, India is positioned to emerge as a major maritime power over the coming decades.
Sectoral and thematic mutual funds experienced a significant 37% surge in monthly inflows during November. This rise is attributed to investors chasing recent strong performance and new fund launches. Experts suggest this trend is more tactical and driven by FOMO rather than a permanent shift.
Mutual fund SIP stoppage ratio increases to 76% in November as monthly contributions fall marginally
In November, mutual fund SIP inflows experienced a slight decline, accompanied by a small uptick in SIP stoppages. Nonetheless, the enduring strength of SIP contributions reflects an increasingly savvy investor base dedicated to building long-term wealth.
Motilal Oswal picks 10 stocks to buy for what it sees as multi-trillion dollar opportunity
Motilal Oswal has pinpointed ten stocks poised to capitalize on India's projected multi-trillion-dollar economic expansion. These selections span autos, financials, capital goods, and healthcare, reflecting key growth drivers like increased incomes, digitalization, and a robust investment cycle. The brokerage highlights companies expected to benefit from sustained demand and market formalization.
Bruised but not beaten? Swiggy shares down 24% YTD, but a reversal may be on the cards
Swiggy shares have rebounded modestly after a steep year-to-date decline, with analysts divided on the stocks next direction. Some experts highlight improving momentum, strengthening support levels, and easing selling pressure, while others warn of bearish chart patterns and weakening demand zones. With key moving averages and resistance levels in focus, the stocks upcoming movements will be crucial in confirming whether a true trend reversal is forming.
Meesho shares slip 3% on day 3 of trading. Should you buy, share, hold?
Meeshos post-IPO fireworks eased on Friday as the stock slipped on day three of trading, prompting investors to reassess their next move after two sessions of sharp gains. The story breaks down whats driving the volatility, what brokerages are advising, and whether this is the moment to buy, hold or book profits as Meesho transitions from a blockbuster debut to a more measured market reality.
10 stocks created Rs 46 lakh crore wealth for investors in last 5 years. Do you own any?
Ten leading Indian companies generated a staggering Rs 46 lakh crore in shareholder wealth between 2020 and 2025. Bharti Airtel led the pack, adding Rs 7.9 lakh crore, followed by ICICI Bank and SBI, showcasing a broad market rally across banking, tech, industrials, and FMCG sectors.
L&T shares rise over 2% as Goldman Sachs upgrades to Buy. Check target price, upside
Larsen & Toubro shares surged 2.5% to Rs 4,109 after Goldman Sachs upgraded the stock to 'Buy' with a Rs 5,000 target price. The brokerage cited strong growth visibility across segments, a healthy order backlog, and emerging sectors like defence and green hydrogen as key drivers for the re-rating.
HSBC names 10 stocks that could rally in 2026. How many do you own?
HSBC has identified 10 Indian stocks poised for significant growth in 2026. Supported by favorable economic conditions, these companies are expected to outperform. The brokerage firm has set ambitious price targets for these selections, indicating strong potential upside. Investors can explore these opportunities as India's equity market anticipates a robust rally.
Jefferies cuts IndiGo target price to Rs 6,035 due to business disruption
Jefferies cut IndiGos target price to 6,035 from 7,025, citing operational disruptions and higher costs that will dent near-term earnings. Despite trimming FY2628 profit estimates by 1353%, the brokerage kept its Buy rating, saying IndiGos strong market position and global expansion still support meaningful upside.
IPO gold rush: Promoters, early investors cash out over Rs 1 lakh crore in record 2025 selling spree
Indian IPOs are witnessing an unprecedented gold rush as promoters and early investors cashed out over Rs 1 lakh crore this year. This record selling spree, driven by market euphoria, saw existing shareholders pocketing 63% of total IPO proceeds. While concerns about inflated valuations arise, market participants see it as a rational exit opportunity amid strong liquidity.
Sensex climbs over 450 pts, Nifty tops 26,000 as D-St builds on Fed-driven rebound
Indian equities opened higher on Friday, extending the previous day's relief rally fueled by the Federal Reserve's actions. Both the Sensex and Nifty saw gains, with investors maintaining a constructive outlook ahead of crucial domestic inflation data scheduled for release later today.
HDFC Life, LIC, other insurance stocks in focus ahead of cabinet review of FDI limit hike proposal
Insurance stocks may stay active as the Union Cabinet is expected to consider the Insurance Amendment Bill on Friday. The proposal reportedly includes major sector reforms, including raising FDI in insurers to 100% and other changes aimed at modernising the industry.
Adani Green Energy among 6 F&O stocks with sharp rise in futures open interest
Interest surged across 9 stocks in the NSE F&O pack.
Piramal Pharma shares in focus after USFDA issues form 483 for Kentucky unit
Piramal Pharma's US facility inspection concluded with four observations from the FDA. The company expects a voluntary action indicated classification. Piramal Pharma is preparing a response to the regulator. This comes as the company reported a net loss in the September quarter, impacted by its contract development and manufacturing segment. Shares have seen a decline this year.
IDBI Bank shares jump 4% as Fairfax, Kotak emerge as key bidders
IDBI Bank shares surged as Fairfax Financial and Kotak Mahindra Bank are frontrunners to buy a controlling stake. The government and LIC are selling 60.72% of the lender. Financial bids are expected by December end. Both bidders have received RBI clearance. Emirates NBD is reassessing its participation.
Vedanta shares rise 2% after winning critical mineral auction
Vedanta's shares surged after being declared the successful bidder for the Genjana Nickel, Chromium, and PGE Block in the Critical Mineral Auctions Tranche III. This strategic acquisition will bolster the company's critical minerals portfolio, supporting India's energy transition and technological advancement. The stock has shown a positive trend over various time frames.
Vodafone Idea and 3 other stocks flash bullish signals, indicating a possible uptrend
Four Nifty500 stocks, including Vodafone Idea, appeared in the White Marubozu bullish scan on December 11, signalling strong buying momentum. The candlestick pattern reflects firm control by buyers throughout the session, indicating potential continuation of upward trends as renewed interest and positive sentiment drive short-term trading opportunities.
Tata Power shares in focus as company wins transmission project LoI worth Rs 156 crore
Tata Power shares are set to be in focus on December 12, after the company secured a letter of intent from REC Power Development and Consultancy Ltd to acquire the Jejuri Hinjewadi Power Transmission SPV for Rs 155.78 crore. The 115-km, 400 kV transmission project will be developed on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer basis, with a 35-year service period beginning 24 months after the SPV transfer. The update comes as the stock has been under pressure in recent weeks, even as the company reported a marginal dip in Q2 FY26 profit and revenue.
November inflows into equity MFs up 21.2% from October
Equity mutual funds experienced a strong rebound in November, attracting higher net inflows. This surge was attributed to robust equity market performance. Meanwhile, debt-oriented schemes saw significant outflows, indicating a shift in investor strategy. Investors are rebalancing portfolios, moving towards higher-yielding segments. Gold ETFs also continued their positive trend with consistent inflows.
US Fed rate cut, bond buy could draw FPIs to India, support rupee
The rupee on Thursday closed at a record low of 90.4825 per US dollar
RBI eases transaction account norms for banks
Banks can now offer cash credit account to customers basis their needs without any restrictions. Further, a bank may maintain current account or OD account without any restriction in case of customers with less than 10 crore exposure to banks.
Rupee sinks to a new low of 90.48/dollar
Stronger dollar and persistent foreign outflows kept pressure on the domestic currency
OMO auction for G-Secs purchase fully subscribed; banks get 50,000 crore liquidity
The aforementioned OMO purchase auction is part of the liquidity injection measures announced by the RBI in its bi-monthly monetary policy review.
Many taxpayers face issues with missing foreign asset and income details in revised Income Tax Returns. If a taxpayer has any assets outside of India, such as immovable property, bank accounts, investments, or other assets, or earns income from foreign sources, careful attention must be paid during the Income Tax Return filing process.
RBI buys 50,000 crore worth of bonds at first auction since May
The purchase is part of RBIs plan to inject one trillion rupees worth of liquidity via bond purchase and $5 billion equivalent via a foreign exchange swap this month
How to resolve money fights at home
Pension funds managing NPS, UPS, and APY schemes can now invest in silver and gold ETFs, the Nifty 250 index, and Alternative Investment Funds (Category I and II). These updates, detailed in a master circular, also outline revised investment exposure limits across various asset classes, including government securities, corporate debt, and equity.
Canara Robeco Mid Cap Fund reaches Rs 4,000 crore AUM in 3 years, offers CAGR of 21% since inception
Canara Robeco Mid Cap Fund achieved an AUM of Rs 3,996.69 crore in three years, delivering a CAGR of 20.75% since inception. Despite trailing its benchmark in inception returns, the fund has demonstrated its commitment to identifying high-potential mid-cap opportunities with a disciplined, research-driven approach.
JPMorgan set to open first new India branch in nearly a decade
JPMorgan Chase is poised to open its fourth branch in India, receiving in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India for a new location in Pune. This expansion, the first in nearly a decade, will serve corporate clients with a comprehensive range of financial products.
Why your take-home salary won't change much under new labour codes, clarifies labour ministry
New labour codes will not reduce take-home pay for employees whose Provident Fund deduction is on the statutory wage ceiling of Rs 15,000., the Labour Ministry said. The Ministry said that contributions beyond this limit are voluntary. An example shows take-home salary remaining Rs 56,400 for a Rs 60,000 monthly remuneration. Employees and employers can choose higher PF contributions.
Smallcap mutual funds see jump of 27% in monthly inflows despite index correction of 3%
Smallcap and midcap mutual funds saw strong inflows in November despite market volatility. Smallcap funds recorded a 27% rise in inflows, while midcap funds saw an 18% increase. Experts attribute this to strong trailing returns, earnings momentum, and long-term compounding potential. Returns for the month were mixed, with smallcaps delivering negative average performance and midcaps posting slight gains.
The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal in Mumbai has made a noteworthy ruling regarding property redevelopment, stating that any extra space bought is eligible for long-term capital gains tax exemption. This is particularly significant for individuals who are aiming to move into bigger homes through redevelopment.
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund among top 5 flexicap funds delivering over 20% CAGR in 3 years
Gold loan or personal loan: Short-term crisis or long-term goal? Pick the one that works for you
The perfect credit mix: What really boosts your CIBIL score
Sovereign Gold Bond: The Reserve Bank of India has set the final redemption price for Sovereign Gold Bond 2017-18 Series-XI at Rs 12,801 per unit. This bond matures on December 11, 2025. The premature redemption price for SGB 2019-20 Series I is also Rs 12,801 per unit, with redemption due on the same date. Investors can expect significant returns.
Why are hybrid mutual funds termed as tax-efficient?
Hybrid mutual funds are considered tax-efficient because schemes with over 65% equityor a mix of equity and arbitrageare taxed like equity funds, allowing their debt portion to benefit from lower long-term capital gains tax.
AMFI Data: Mutual fund SIP inflows dip marginally to Rs 29,445 crore in November
Mutual fund SIP inflows in November dipped slightly to Rs 29,445 crore from Octobers Rs 29,529 crore, while SIP accounts stood at 9.42 crore. Equity, hybrid, and passive funds drove growth, with SIP AUM at Rs 16.53 lakh crore, contributing over one-fifth of the industrys total Rs 80.8 lakh crore AUM.
Karta repays more than advance taken, I-T sends tax notice, but ITAT Mumbai rules in favour of HUF
The Mumbai branch of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal has issued an important ruling, stating that any surplus loan refunds received by a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) from its Karta are classified as capital receipts and therefore free from income tax obligations. This decision clearly indicates that the classification holds firm, even if the funds are employed in trading activities.
AMFI Data: Equity mutual fund inflows jump 21% MoM to Rs 29,911 crore in November
Equity mutual fund inflows saw a significant 21% rise in November, reaching Rs 29,911 crore. This marks a strong monthly performance. However, compared to the previous year, inflows were down by 17%. Most fund categories attracted investments, with Flexi cap funds leading the pack. Investors showed renewed interest in these funds.
Why debt mutual funds and arbitrage funds deserve a place in your portfolio
Debt mutual funds and arbitrage funds offer liquidity, flexibility and smarter tax treatment than traditional options like FDs and PPF. With diversified portfolios, active management and low volatility, these schemes can enhance fixed-income allocation and help investors meet short-, medium- and long-term goals when used alongside conventional savings products.
Prudential sells 4.5% stake in Indian asset management JV for $545 million ahead of IPO
The fund house is a joint venture between ICICI Bank, Indias second-largest private lender, which holds 51% and Prudential, which owns the rest
HDFC Defence Fund boosts stake in Bharat Dynamics and 3 others, trims holdings in 2 stocks
HDFC Defence Fund, Indias only actively managed defence-focused fund, increased its holdings in Bharat Dynamics and three other stocks in November, while trimming stakes in two others. The fund added 1.5 lakh shares of Bharat Dynamics, raising its total to 27 lakh, and acquired around 10 lakh shares of Bharat Electronics during the same period, reflecting a selective portfolio adjustment.
Best focused mutual funds to invest in December 2025
According to Sebi norms, focused equity mutual fund schemes must invest in a portfolio of maximum 30 stocks. These schemes have no other restrictions when it comes to investing- like flexi cap schemes they can invest in any market capitalisations and sectors. If that investment strategy appeals to you, you can get to know more about focused equity schemes.
Divided Fed cuts rates, hints at a pause and just one cut next year as growth rebounds
With incomplete economic data after a lengthy government shutdown, the Fed expects inflation to ease to around 2.4% next year even as growth strengthens.
