7 C 
Small, mid-sized NBFC-MFIs hope for a credit guarantee fund announcement in Union Budget
Disbursements from banks to these entities have either stopped or is very limited. Whatever recovery these MFIs make, only that can be recycled for giving fresh loans and repaying the loans taken from banks, says Jiji Mammen, CEO, Sa-Dhan
Equity mutual funds lost over 5% last week. Check top 5 laggards
How can I ensure my wife inherits our ancestral properties without claims from my children?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: Im a Hindu and need legal advice on drafting my will. I own two ancestral properties inherited from my grandmother and mother. I want my wife to be the sole and absolute owner of these after my death, with no claim from my sons or their legal heirs.
Financial control by husband alone doesn't amount to cruelty: Supreme Court quashes 498A case
The Supreme Court granted relief to a husband from a 498A case filed by his wife. The court ruled that the husband's financial dominance, including asking his wife to maintain an expense spreadsheet and transfer her salary, did not constitute cruelty. Allegations were deemed vague and lacking specific evidence, leading to the quashing of the criminal proceedings.
The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) offers a competitive 8.2% fixed interest rate, matching the Sukanya Samriddhi Account. This rate, applicable for the January-March 2026 quarter, remains unchanged from the previous period. SCSS provides a higher return than most bank FDs, though it has a deposit limit of Rs 30 lakh.
Salaried individuals can now make their income tax-free in the new tax regime. This is possible by utilising employer contributions to Employees' Provident Fund and National Pension System. Even with a nearly Rs 14.66 lakh salary, tax liability can be zero. This strategy helps build a substantial retirement corpus.
Not gold or property: Here's what Radhika Gupta calls real inheritance from the previous generation
Radhika Gupta, MD & CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, said the true inheritance from previous generations lies in the values they instilledhard work, responsibility, family respect, and financial prudencerather than material assets like gold or property. She emphasized that these principles guide life and financial choices across generations.
NFO Alert: The Wealth Company Mutual Fund launches Gold ETF FoF
The Wealth Company Mutual Fund has launched a Gold ETF Fund of Fund, offering investors a cost-efficient and transparent way to gain gold exposure without physical ownership. The NFO is open until January 23, 2026, with low minimum investment and SIP options.
HDFC Bank is transitioning its debit card lounge access to a voucher-based system from January 10, 2026. Customers meeting a Rs 10,000 quarterly spend will receive a digital voucher via SMS or email, replacing the previous card swipe method. This new process requires claiming a voucher code to gain entry to airport lounges.
Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund has discontinued subscriptions in its Nifty Microcap 250 Index Fund following consultations with SEBI, citing the absence of a defined microcap category. The move impacts fresh investments, SIPs, and STPs, while existing terms remain unchanged.
Quant Small Cap Fund: LIC and Adani Green Energy among stocks bought and sold in December
Quant Small Cap Fund made selective portfolio changes in December, adding Adani Green Energy and exiting LIC completely. The fund increased exposure to select stocks while maintaining a defensive stance, focusing on liquidity and calibrated smallcap exposure amid market volatility.
Gold Exchange Traded Funds saw unprecedented inflows in December, reaching an all-time high. This surge has prompted market experts to recommend investors rebalance their portfolios. They advise aligning gold ETF holdings with individual asset allocation targets. For new investors, a gradual entry through systematic plans is suggested.
Why understanding matters more than returns when deploying capital?
Wealthy individuals are increasingly investing in complex private credit and structured strategies. These investments carry inherent risks due to limited liquidity and infrequent price visibility.
SBI ATM fee: State Bank of India has revised its ATM transaction charges, effective December 1, 2025, due to an increase in interchange fees. Savings and salary account holders using other banks' ATMs will see higher charges for cash withdrawals and non-financial transactions after the free limit. SBI debit card holders using SBI ATMs and BSBD account holders remain unaffected.
Mutual fund SIP contributions hit a record Rs 30,002 crore in December, even as the SIP stoppage ratio climbed to 85%. AMFI data shows strong long-term investor participation, rising SIP AUM and expanding folio count despite market volatility.
Mutual fund investors take a bigger shine to gold and silver
In December, mutual fund investors took a gold and silver plunge, ramping up their stakes in precious metal funds. Meanwhile, equity and fixed-income investments cooled off, indicating a cautious approach in the market. Additionally, multi-asset allocation funds attracted more capital, underscoring a trend towards safer investment choices as investors hedge against uncertainty.
Inflow slowdown hits large, mid and smallcap funds in December. Is investor sentiment cooling?
Mutual fund inflows into large-, mid- and small-cap schemes declined in December despite limited market weakness. Experts attribute the slowdown to elevated valuations, volatility and profit booking, signalling a more cautious and selective investor approach across equity fund categories.
UK-based taxpayer ignored tax notices, still escaped Rs 10,000 penalty; heres why
A UK resident successfully challenged a Rs 10,000 tax penalty imposed for not responding to a notice. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Delhi ruled that the penalty was invalid as there was no proof the notice was actually served on the taxpayer. This decision highlights the importance of proper notice delivery for tax proceedings.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on January 10, 2026?
Bank holiday today: Bank customers should plan their work in advance. Banks observe holidays on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. January 2026 features several state-specific holidays. Republic Day is a national holiday.
NPST, Infinity Infoway launch ERP-linked prepaid card for schools, transport firms
The solution, backed by NSDL Payment Bank, will be rolled out pan-India in phases.
Bank of Baroda to set up wholly-owned subsidiary to undertake standalone primary dealership business
The SPD business will be established subject to other regulatory approvals
More commission payments: 23 insurers under IRDAIs lens for exceeding expenses
Surge in commission payments is driven by the private insurers in life and non-life business
Are you reviewing your personal finances the right way?
Many women beneficiaries of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme have completed their e-KYC but are yet to receive their December installment. With January 2026 underway, beneficiaries are also waiting for the current month's payment. The government has not announced the disbursal date, causing confusion among recipients.
8th Pay Commission: Comparing salary increases under 6th and 7th CPC
December saw 23 open-ended mutual fund NFOs raise Rs 4,074 crore, led by Abakkus Flexi Caps Rs 2,468 crore haul, while sectoral, arbitrage, small-cap, index, ETF, liquid and gold funds drew modest investor interest amid selective risk appetite in December.
NaBFID boosts derivatives use as falling rates squeeze margins
The infra lender has entered into swap transactions with global banks to offset the mismatch between floating-rate loans and fixed borrowing costs after RBI rate cuts.
Bain's Manappuram deal delayed by Indian regulatory concerns, sources say
Shares in Manappuram slid on the news, extending losses to be last down 5%
Senior citizens can manage their Fixed Deposit interest income effectively. Banks deduct Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on interest exceeding certain limits. However, strategic investment planning across multiple banks can prevent TDS. Additionally, eligible senior citizens can submit Form 15H to avoid TDS if their total tax payable is nil. This allows for better management of retirement income.
Budget 2026: Previous years tax cuts spur hope for more
Anticipation builds for Budget 2026 as taxpayers hope for more tax cuts and relief amid economic recovery and low inflation
Mutual fund inflows touch Rs 8 lakh crore in 2025; flexicap funds attract Rs 80,000 crore
Mutual funds saw strong investor interest in 2025. Open-ended funds attracted over Rs 7.9 lakh crore. Equity schemes were popular, with flexicap funds leading inflows. Debt and hybrid funds also saw significant investments. Passive funds, including ETFs and index funds, garnered substantial inflows. The total assets under management for open-ended schemes grew by 20%.
PM Kisan beneficiaries can expect the 22nd instalment between March and April 2026. Each payment will be Rs 2,000. Completing eKYC is crucial to receive funds directly into Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts. Farmers can use OTP, biometrics, or face authentication for eKYC.
Auto stocks on fast track in FY26; two have already doubled investors wealth
Auto stocks are outperforming the broader market in FY26, with the BSE Auto index up 32%. SML Mahindra and Force Motors have emerged as multibaggers, while strong demand and earnings visibility continue to support sector-wide momentum.
ICICI Bank Credit Card rule changes from January 15, 2026: Check new fees and benefits
ICICI Bank is updating its credit card offerings. New rules for rewards, benefits, and fees will take effect on January 15, 2026. Cardholders should review changes to reward points, BookMyShow benefits, and various transaction fees. These revisions will affect spending habits and how cardholders earn rewards. Specific changes apply to cards like Emeralde Metal and Times Black.
Japan's Nikkei rises as Uniqlo owner jumps on earnings, automakers gain
Japan's Nikkei share average closed higher on Friday. Fast Retailing's strong earnings fueled the rise. Automakers also saw gains due to a weaker yen and relief over China's export policy. The Nikkei climbed significantly for the week. Investors are now focused on US jobs data and its impact on monetary policy. Yaskawa Electric's results are also anticipated.
Delhi High Court raps Income Tax Dept over 8-year delay, in tax refund and thus orders Rs 5.37 crore tax refund with interest to Microsoft India; warns Rs 1 lakh personal cost on on Deputy Commissioner if deadline missed. Read below to what else Delhi High Court said to Income Tax Department.
New NPS, EPF rules explained: Key updates that will impact your retirement corpus
Policymakers rolled out a series of reforms to address long-standing pain points for EPF and NPS subscribers, such as rigid withdrawal rules, paperwork-heavy processes, and limited flexibility in managing retirement savings.
CDSL Ventures registers over 10 crore KYC record
It is the first KYC Registration Agency in India and has been instrumental in establishing a centralized KYC system for the securities market
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund raises stake in ITC, 10 others; trims Infosys exposure in Dec
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund boosted its holdings in ITC and ten other stocks during December, notably adding significant stakes in Power Grid Corporation and HDFC Bank. The fund also introduced The Great Eastern Shipping Company to its portfolio. Meanwhile, exposure to Infosys was reduced, with no complete exits reported.
The Delhi High Court has backed a Labour Court's decision regarding a terminated employee. The company must either reinstate the worker with back pay or provide a Rs 3 lakh compensation. The court found the termination illegal due to the company's failure to follow mandatory procedures and produce crucial employment records.
In your 30s? These 10 money habits decide your retirement future
Investing in 2026? This simple ETF vs index fund test tells you what to buy
AMFI Data: Mutual fund SIP inflows surge to record Rs 31,002 crore in December
Mutual fund SIP inflows reached a record high of over Rs 31,000 crore in December. This marks a significant increase, showing disciplined investor participation. Investors are using market dips to increase investments. The trend indicates a growing financialization of savings in India. More investors are expected to join mutual funds, driving SIP numbers higher.
PF withdrawal rules: Know service period, 75% limit and unemployment benefits
AMFI Data: Equity mutual fund inflows dip 6% to Rs 28,054 crore in December
Equity mutual fund inflows dipped 6% to Rs 28,054 crore in December, marking a 32% year-on-year decline. Despite this, flexi-cap funds achieved a record high of Rs 10,019 crore in inflows, leading the pack among the 11 sub-categories. Overall, 2025 saw Rs 3.03 lakh crore invested in equity mutual funds.
MF Tracker: Axis Large Cap Fund turns Rs 10,000 SIP to Rs 58 lakh in 16 years
Axis Large Cap Fund has turned a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP into Rs 58.71 lakh over 16 years, ETMutualFunds analysis shows. Despite periods of underperformance, the large-cap scheme has delivered steady long-term returns. Experts say its quality-focused approach and stability make it a suitable option in todays volatile markets.
Best tax saving mutual funds or ELSS to invest in January 2026
Tax saving mutual funds or ELSSs invest in stocks. Therefore, they have a very high risk. You should be aware of this aspect, especially if you are a first-time investor in equity mutual funds. Compared to your usual investments like Public Provident Fund or National Savings Certificate, etc,
Gold and silver prices saw record highs in 2025. Global factors like central bank buying and geopolitical risks drove these surges. Indian demand remained steady but did not lead the price increases. High prices are now influencing consumer buying patterns. Investors are watching for potential portfolio rebalancing impacts in the new year.
The Delhi High Court ruled that a wife, despite concealing her dual MBA income, is entitled to maintenance for accommodation under the Domestic Violence Act. The court acknowledged her suppressed income but prioritized her right to secure a safe residence for herself and their child, modifying the interim maintenance order.
Can you still exchange Rs 2000 notes in 2026? The answer may surprise you
Can you still exchange Rs 2000 notes in 2026? With 98% already returned, here's what you need to know before your options disappear.
Bajaj Group completes acquisition of 23% stake in insurance ventures from Allianz
Allianz SE says it will consider options for redeployment of the proceeds, including investments into its new joint ventures in India
Post-UIB acquisition, Edme sharpens focus on construction and reinsurance
Edme is also expanding overseas, with plans to open offices in Dubai, Singapore and London, and has entered climate risk advisory and parametric insurance solutions.
Exclusion from sharing, accessing credit info puts non-profit MFIs in a bit of a spot
Since the aforementioned MFIs (Section 8 companies) are not regulated entities, the central bank has told CICs that exchange of credit information is not permissible with the former under the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act (CICRA), 2005
This online platform now offers same-day international money transfers for overseas education payments, a significant improvement over previous multi-day processes. This aims to alleviate stress for students and parents facing strict university fee deadlines. Cashback offers are also available on eligible education transfers.
SBI FD interest rates 2026: Special schemes for seniors, super seniors and high-value deposits
The Supreme Court has directed the government to increase the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation's (EPFO) wage ceiling of Rs 15,000 within four months. This move aims to bring more employees under the EPF umbrella, enhancing retirement savings and social security for a larger segment of the workforce.
Delhi HC stays order requiring second-level review of RBI ombudsman complaints
The single-judge order aimed to reduce mechanised rejection of complaints and improve consumer redressal
India's insurance grievance system is buckling under pressure, with a significant surge in complaints, especially for health and general insurance. Claims disputes are the primary driver, with unresolved cases nearly doubling. While life insurance grievances remain stable, mis-selling concerns are rising, eroding trust.
7 tax-free income sources in India that can help you save big legally in 2026
NFO Alert: Bandhan Mutual Fund launches Arudha SIFs maiden strategy with Hybrid Long-Short Fund
Bandhan Mutual Fund launched its first SIF, Arudha Hybrid Long-Short Fund, targeting sophisticated investors. The interval strategy blends debt, money market instruments and market-neutral equity arbitrage, aiming for optimal returns, risk management and post-tax efficiency, with the NFO open January 922.
Five equity mutual funds delivered over 20% annualised SIP returns over the past decade. The list includes small-cap, mid-cap and ELSS funds, though investors are advised to align choices with risk profile, goals and investment horizon.
Uttarakhand Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Uttarakhand) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
Chandigarh State Consumer Commission has ruled that restaurants cannot charge more than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) for packaged water. A diner won a case against a restaurant for charging Rs 55 for a Rs 20 water bottle. The commission ordered the restaurant to refund the excess amount and pay Rs 3,000 in compensation for unfair trade practice.
Nabard Chairman offers to escalate employee demandsto appropriate levels
Agrees with AINBEA that flow of concessionary funds from RBI is mandatory to ensure welfare of poor
West Bengal Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (West Bengal) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
A retired employee, Mr. Rao, has won a 13-year legal battle for unpaid salary and gratuity. The Andhra Pradesh High Court ruled that an employer's lack of funds is not a valid excuse for withholding statutory dues. The court directed the employer to pay the outstanding amount with 10% interest.
Axis Finance launches Vyapar business loan
Vyapar business loan aims to empower micro and small entrepreneurs across the retail, service and trading segments by offering loans of up to 10 lakh, flexible tenures and zero collateral requirements
Lower EMIs Ahead: Relief for HDFC Banks borrowers as lender cuts MCLR on certain tenures
Latest HDFC Bank interest rates: HDFC Bank has lowered its MCLR rates by up to 5 basis points on select loan tenures. This change will benefit borrowers with loans linked to this regime. The revised rates are effective from January 7, 2026. The bank's MCLR rates now range from 8.25% to 8.55% depending on the loan tenure.
Uttar Pradesh Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Uttar Pradesh) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
A remarried widow has won a significant case in the Kerala High Court. She was denied a job on compassionate grounds after her husband's death due to her remarriage. The court ruled that her remarriage does not disqualify her from receiving this employment. This decision upholds her statutory right to compassionate appointment.
Tripura Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Tripura) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
Telangana Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Telangana) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
Tamil Nadu Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Tamil Nadu) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
Sikkim Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Sikkim) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
NPS Vatsalya Scheme rules out: Govt reveals investment, withdrawal, exit, other key conditions
PFRDA has unveiled new guidelines for the NPS Vatsalya scheme, a plan for minors' contributions by parents and guardians. The circular details investment options, including equity up to 75%, and outlines partial withdrawal conditions for education or medical needs. It also clarifies exit strategies and continuation options upon the minor reaching adulthood.
Rajasthan Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list
Check out the detailed state-wise (Rajasthan) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline
What approach should investors take in gold and silver ETFs after sharp rally?
After a sharp rally, investors should adopt a cautious, staggered approach to gold and silver ETFs, focusing on allocation balance and long-term objectives rather than chasing short-term gains.
Credit card rewards can trigger income tax notice: Avoid these red-flag transactions
Credit card usage has surged due to rewards, cashback, and milestone perks. When credit card expenses seem too high, circular, or dont match declared income, they raise red flags.
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund announces launch of two debt funds. Who should invest?
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund introduces two new debt funds, the Short Duration Fund and the Low Duration Fund. The new fund offers are currently open for investment and will close on January 13. These funds aim to generate income for investors with short-term horizons.
In your 20s, 40s, or 60s? How EPF, SIP or SCSS works out at different life stages
The ITAT Mumbai has ruled that cash received from a property sale cannot be treated as unexplained income if backed by proper records. However, this case involved a property sale in FY 2014-15 (AY 2015-16), when Section 269SS didn't cover property sale cash. Since FY 2015-16, stricter cash restrictions apply to property transactions.
Budget 2026: From tax relief to crypto clarity, what Indian taxpayers really, really want
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I am a 76-year-old Indian resident planning to sell a 37-year-old 3-guntha plot located within municipal corporation limits. The sale price has appreciated nearly 17 times over the original purchase price. To save on capital gains tax, can I reinvest the proceeds in a residential unit, a commercial shop, or a commercial office?
NFO Insight: Is Groww Small Cap Fund a smart bet amid market volatility?
Groww Mutual Fund has launched its new Small Cap Fund, focusing on long-term capital appreciation through a bottom-up stock selection process. Experts offer mixed views, with some suggesting caution due to current small-cap valuations and volatility, while others see potential for long-term investors willing to tolerate risk.
RBI intervenes again to support rupee, traders say
The rupee recovered to 89.8550 per US dollar from 89.9775 on back of the intervention
Best large & mid cap funds to invest in January 2026
If you have a long-term horizon and are willing to take a little extra risk, you may choose from our list of recommended large & mid cap schemes. Before proceeding to the recommendation list, here are some updates.
The Supreme Court has relieved a husband from jail in a dowry case. The court ruled that demanding gold ornaments during a child's Chhoochhak ceremony is not a dowry demand. While the conviction for cruelty under Section 498A IPC is upheld, the sentence for dowry death under Section 304B IPC is set aside.
