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Best short duration mutual funds to invest in December 2025
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.
The Supreme Court dismissed a property inheritance case. A key witness disowned a will during cross-examination. This means the property will now follow natural Hindu succession laws. The mother had filed a case against her son for property title. The trial court had given partial relief. The mother passed away during the appeal.
Will interest rates on SCSS, PPF, SSY and other small savings schemes fall for Jan-March 2026?
The Finance Ministry will review Post Office small savings scheme interest rates by December 31, 2025, for the January-March 2026 quarter. While G-Sec yields suggest potential cuts, experts believe the government may prioritize stability for household savers, especially senior citizens, over formula-based reductions.
Real-time income tax refund tracker on the ITR e-filing portal is needed in Budget 2026, say experts
Experts are urging the government to introduce a real-time income tax refund tracker on the e-filing portal ahead of Budget 2026. This move aims to alleviate taxpayer anxiety and financial planning challenges caused by delayed refunds. The proposed tracker would offer clear status updates and an escalation option for prolonged delays, enhancing transparency and efficiency.
Private banks cut staff in FY25; PSU banks see marginal rise
Overall employment in the banking system rose to 18.08 lakh from 17.87 lakh a year ago, largely driven by hiring at small finance banks
Government to borrow 3.84 lakh crore via treasury bills in Q4
The proposed borrowing is Rs 10,000 crore lower than the Rs 3.94 lakh crore raised in the same quarter last year.
General insurance is witnessing meaningful, positive shifts: SBI General Chief Jha
RBI injects 50,000 cr via OMO purchase auction
The liquidity deficit in the banking system stood at 62,302 crore as on December 28
Banks will continue to face competition from non-bank sources: RBI report
Rapidly changing technology and digitalisation could change the way people transact with banks for their savings and credit needs, while also exposing the banking system to newer risks including cyber risk
Number of urban co-operative banks shrinks by 15 to 1,457 during FY25
Recognising the positive developments in the sector in the recent period, the Reserve Bank proposes to publish a Discussion Paper on licensing of new UCBs
Banks report 21,515 crore of frauds in H1FY26: RBI
In H1FY25, banks had reported a total of 18,386 frauds amounting to 16,569 crore
8th Pay Commission: When will salaries rise and by how much?
The 8th Pay Commission officially takes effect from January 1, 2026, but higher salaries will not be credited immediately. Revised pay is expected later, likely in 2027 or 2028, along with arrears dating back to January 2026. The extent of the salary increase will depend on the final fitment factor, which could significantly lift basic pay across all levels. For both employees and pensioners, the real benefit lies in the backdated revision and accumulated arrears.
Credit extended by NBFCs increases to 15% of GDP in March 2025: RBI
The asset quality of all classification of NBFCs, barring micro-finance institutions, has improved
Payments banks deposits jumped 57% to 25,605 crore in FY25, RBI says
Payments banks continued to register efficiency gains as cost-to-income ratio declined further during 2024-25
64 lenders are now live on unified lending interface platform, RBI says
Through e-KCC platform of Nabard, ULI expanding its reach to customers banking with district central co-op banks and RRBs
Quote of the day by Benjamin Graham: On the other hand, investing is a unique kind of casino
Benjamin Graham, the father of value investing, likened investing to a casino where rules ensure you don't lose in the end. He stressed that emotional decisions, like a gambler's, lead to poor outcomes. Graham's philosophy emphasizes independent thinking, detachment, and a margin of safety, ensuring long-term success by focusing on business value, not just price.
Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund turns Rs 10,000 SIP to over Rs 29 lakh in 10 years
Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund has delivered strong long-term wealth creation, turning a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP into over Rs 29 lakh in 10 years with an XIRR of 17.47%. The fund has outperformed benchmarks since inception, offering Section 80C tax benefits and a disciplined, diversified investment approach.
Silver prices surged past Rs 2.50 lakh/kg on MCX, marking a significant rise driven by China's new licensing system for processed silver and dwindling global inventories. Experts predict continued strength due to industrial demand and supply shortages, though extreme rallies might see corrections. Investors are advised to accumulate on dips and consider staggered investments.
Tax deduction under Section 80G: Eligible donations, cash limits and key conditions explained
Dvara KGFS appoints Ramaswamy Subramanian as Deputy CEO
Prior to joining Dvara KGFS, Subramanian headed product portfolios at Karnataka Bank and Suryoday Small Finance Bank
Those with retirement plan invest more in mutual funds : PGIM India Mutual Fund
Indias retirement planning mindset is evolving, with rising mutual fund adoption and growing interest in ETFs and REITs, even as actual preparedness declines.
Banking sector remains robust as bad loans decline, says RBI
Banks deposits and credit grew in double digit percentages during 2024-25 but moderated from the previous year
Corporate lending by banks to revive in coming quarters amid narrowing borrowing cost: Report
Large banks and PSBs remain key beneficiaries of growth pick-up, while focus may remain on lower-rated accounts (AA/A) to manage margins
January 2026 changes: As 2026 begins, significant changes are coming for salaried employees, pensioners, and bank customers. The 8th Pay Commission term starts, PAN-Aadhaar linking deadline ends, and IRCTC, SBI Card, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank introduce new rules impacting travel and card benefits.
Can gold sustain its stellar run in 2026? Here is what Raamdeo Agrawal and 6 other experts say
After a blockbuster 2025 for gold and silver, market experts remain divided on the outlook for 2026. While safe-haven demand may persist, most believe returns could moderate, with volatility and stabilisation emerging as key themes.
Buvanesh Tharashankar, new Group CFO of Manappuram Group
He will provide strategic financial leadership across all Manappuram Group companies and work closely with the Board and senior management
Redeeming mutual fund units to buy a house? Heres how to claim the Section 54F exemption after this
PANAadhaar link deadline approaching: How to check if your PAN is linked with UID card
PANAadhaar link deadline: The Income Tax Department offers convenient methods to link PAN with Aadhaar, with a January 1, 2026 deadline to avoid an inoperative PAN. Failure to link can halt tax filings, refunds, and financial transactions. Verification can be done online or via SMS, with linking taking a day or two post-submission.
Silver ETFs post massive gains in 2025. What should investors expect in 2026?
Gold and silver emerged as standout assets in 2025, driven by strong investor demand, rising ETF participation and expanding industrial use. While silver delivered outsized gains amid structural demand shifts, experts caution that heightened volatility, inflation risks and global macro uncertainties could trigger sharp short-term price swings ahead.
IRCTC train tickets new rule 2025: Indian Railways is expanding booking hours for Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users on the Advance Reservation Period's opening day. Starting December 29, 2025, this exclusive window will gradually increase, reaching 16 hours by January 12, 2026, allowing more passengers to secure reserved train tickets online.
Perfect thaali fund! Why Radhika Gupta likes Edelweiss Multi Asset Omni FoF
Radhika Gupta calls Edelweiss Multi Asset Omni FoF a perfect thaali fund, highlighting its disciplined 65-10-10-15 allocation across equity, gold, silver and debt. The fund aims to offer diversification, stability and growth amid volatile market conditions.
7 lessons Dhurandhar teaches about money, risk and wealth building
MMR leads, Chennai surprises: Indias housing market sold less but earned more in 2025
Coforge shares rally over 2% after $2.35 billion Encora deal. Should investors buy the stock now?
Coforge rose after it announced a $2.35 billion acquisition of US-based AI firm Encora.
Muthoot Microfins individual loan portfolio expansion gathers momentum
Individual loan portfolio AUM crosses 1,000 crore mark
Which mutual fund categories caught investors attention in 2025
In 2025, investors gravitated towards Silver and Gold ETFs due to supply shortages and market uncertainty, respectively. Consumption funds saw attention following GST restructuring, while International funds delivered strong double-digit gains. Auto sector funds experienced growth, contrasting with the underperformance of Technology sector funds.
Ashish Kacholia-backed Jain Resource Recycling's anchor lock-in period has ended, making 12 million shares tradable. The company's stock has surged 77% above its IPO price of Rs 232, reaching Rs 461. Jain Resource Recycling specializes in non-ferrous metal recycling and manufacturing, serving prominent domestic and global clients.
Best medium to long duration funds to invest in December 2025
According to Sebi norms, medium to long term funds have a mandate to invest in debt and money market instruments in such a way that the Macaulay's duration of the portfolio is four to seven years. Since these schemes invest in long-term debt instruments, they are considered risky.
A homeowner who sold property for Rs 61 lakh and received Rs 38 lakh in cash has won a tax case. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal Mumbai ruled that if a sale deed and bank statements confirm cash deposits, the source is accounted for. The tribunal quashed a tax notice for unexplained income.
The Supreme Court has ruled that a son accepting a job on compassionate grounds after his father's death cannot later demand a higher post. The court stated that compassionate appointments are meant for immediate family support. Once a lower post is accepted, a claim for a senior position is not maintainable.
Gold shines as stocks struggle in a year of reforms
Indian equities consolidated in 2025, with the Nifty delivering a modest 9.4% return amid concerns over stretched valuations and slowing earnings growth. Domestic pressures were compounded by foreign capital outflows and geopolitical uncertainty, leading to broad-based market weakness. Investors prioritised stability, favouring large caps over mid and small caps.
Gold & silver ruled markets for different reasons in 25
Gold and silver experienced a remarkable surge in 2025, with silver jumping 138% and gold gaining 74.5%. This rally was fueled by geopolitical tensions, central bank buying, and strong ETF demand. While digital gold saw initial growth, regulatory scrutiny slowed its momentum. Silver's ascent, however, was driven by robust industrial demand, signaling a potential structural shift.
GST gone, but insurance benefits fell short
2025 marked a watershed year for Indian insurance, with the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill significantly boosting FDI to 100% and empowering IRDAI. Key reforms included GST removal on health and life premiums, a revamped ombudsman system, and efforts to resolve insurer-hospital conflicts, aiming for greater consumer access and protection.
Tax relief, then notices: Why 2025 stressed taxpayers
The year 2025 brought significant changes to India's income tax landscape, with Budget 2025 introducing beneficial hikes in rebate and exemption limits under the new tax regime. The flurry of nudges from the income tax department heightened compliance stress for taxpayers reeling under complex return-filing processes.
How multi-asset funds won big in 2025, eye on 2026
Mutual funds saw significant growth in 2025 despite market volatility, with multi-asset funds and income-plus-arbitrage funds emerging as investor favorites. New regulations by Sebi aim to increase transparency in fund charges, breaking down expenses into distinct categories for investors. Multi-asset funds powered by gold ruled 2025, while new tax-smart hybrids offered debt fund alternatives. SEBIs fee overhaul brought transparency.
Is the 3.5% withdrawal rule safe for retirees?
Most investors look at historical returns and project that return going forward. Over the last 25 years, equity has delivered an average annual return of 15%. However, it would be inappropriate to project this return going forward as averages lie.
Why looking back is key to smarter financial planning
Review your finances, but do not beat yourself up about missing the boat or resolving to speculate in the coming year. Instead, identify and be more aware of your personal finances and choices based on the years experiences that provide information about how you managed your money.
LRS curbs, GIFT City push reshape global investing
In 2025, Indian cross-border investing saw a regulatory overhaul, with LRS and GIFT City's IFSC framework introducing stricter compliance and clearer tax rules. This shift moved overseas investments from opportunistic bets to deliberate portfolio strategies, while also highlighting areas needing further reform for sustained growth.
Look back to leap ahead: Career fixes for better 2026
2025 defied job market optimism, presenting persistent uncertainty instead of crisis. Careers stalled as hiring remained tight and promotions were deferred. The year served as a stress test, highlighting the need for proactive career momentum. Know what to do differently to succeed, says Devashish Chakravarty.
Equity, metal, crypto, currency: High & lows in 2025
India's stock markets saw mixed performance in 2025. Foreign investors pulled back, but domestic funds and retail investors provided support. Large-cap stocks did well, while mid and small caps faced challenges. Precious metals like silver and gold shone. The rupee weakened significantly. Bitcoin experienced sharp price swings throughout the year.
From cheaper home loans to key reforms in 2025
2025 saw significant shifts in personal finance, with succession law changes abolishing mandatory probate in major cities and clarifying ancestral property rights. Foreign education faced a downturn due to rising costs and visa complexities, while a new act curbed online money gaming. Home loan rates also dropped significantly, offering substantial savings to borrowers.
Equity, gold or debt? Experts' favourites in 2026
Will markets bounce back or continue to correct? Which sectors will lead? Can gold sustain its stellar run? Will interest rates fall more? ET Wealth asked seven market experts what investors should expect from the year ahead.
India's AI gap may turn into upside for investors
If global investors redirected capital away from India to markets more closely linked to the AI hardware cycle, then a natural rebalancing could favour India once that phase eases. In the context of AI, India is emerging as a strong second-order beneficiary of AI. While it may not be building foundational AI infrastructure, it is rapidly emerging as an important participant in the application economy.
Equity, debt, gold: Best asset combinations in 10 years
In this weeks TrendMap, ET Wealth compares seven asset combinations. Portfolios with gold have delivered a notable return boost in recent years, while those without gold exposure have consistently lagged. By Sameer Bhardwaj.
India's stock markets saw mixed performance in 2025. Foreign investors pulled back, but domestic funds and retail investors provided support. Large-cap stocks did well, while mid and small caps faced challenges. Precious metals like silver and gold shone. The rupee weakened significantly. Bitcoin experienced sharp price swings throughout the year.
5 ways multi-asset funds beat volatility and ruled 2025; what to expect in 2026
Mutual funds saw significant growth in 2025 despite market volatility, with multi-asset funds and income-plus-arbitrage funds emerging as investor favorites. New regulations by Sebi aim to increase transparency in fund charges, breaking down expenses into distinct categories for investors. Multi-asset funds powered by gold ruled 2025, while new tax-smart hybrids offered debt fund alternatives. SEBIs fee overhaul brought transparency.
Gold and silver ruled the markets in 2025but for very different reasons
Gold and silver experienced a remarkable surge in 2025, with silver jumping 138% and gold gaining 74.5%. This rally was fueled by geopolitical tensions, central bank buying, and strong ETF demand. While digital gold saw initial growth, regulatory scrutiny slowed its momentum. Silver's ascent, however, was driven by robust industrial demand, signaling a potential structural shift.
Nifty faces 26,200 hurdle; indicators flag uncertainty
Nifty 50 is consolidating near all-time highs, facing resistance at 26,200, indicating near-term indecision. Analysts suggest range-bound trade with sector-specific opportunities, while Bank Nifty shows signs of potential profit-booking. Experts recommend specific stock bets like Lupin and Varun Beverages for potential gains.
Large banks raise record funds via CDs in 2025
Banks credit growth has been outpacing deposit growth since GST rate cuts, triggering a mismatch in funding requirements, leading to increase in issuances and outstanding volume of CDs.
Big ticket retail loans gain momentum
Housing loan above 1 crore, car loans of 15 lakh and above, two-wheeler loans of 3 lakh and above see good growth
FinMin asks banks, financial institutions for prompt reporting of vigilance matters
The DFS has directed public sector banks and financial institutions for immediate reporting of adverse inputs regarding board level officials even though the alleged lapse pertains to any other capacity other than board
Looking to invest in smallcaps in 2026? 5 big predictions by 5 experts
After a steep underperformance in 2025, Indias smallcap stocks enter 2026 amid divided expert views. While some see improving earnings and selective opportunities, others warn valuations and ownership risks remain. Most strategists agree largecaps offer better visibility, with stock selection and active management critical in smaller segments.
ET Wealth Reader's Query: Please let me know if short-term capital gains (STCG) or capital losses can be adjusted against long-term capital gains (LTCG) or long-term capital losses on the sale of listed shares through an exchange under the new tax regime.
Equity mutual funds offer upto 4% return last week. Check top 10 performers
Equity mutual funds recorded mixed performance last week, with select international and sectoral schemes delivering gains of up to 4%, led by Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund.
Mutual fund NFO: Only one passive fund will open for subscription this week. Check details
A new passive mutual fund is set to open for subscription in early January, offering investors diversified exposure to the Nifty 500 through investments in equity ETFs and index funds, with a low minimum investment requirement.
Chandigarh consumer court ruled against Star Health Insurance. The company was found deficient in service for partially settling a medical claim. The policyholder's wife underwent surgery, incurring a bill of Rs 2.25 lakh. Star Health paid only Rs 69,958. The court ordered Star Health to pay the remaining Rs 1.55 lakh with interest and compensation.
Quote of the day by JP Morgan: No problem can be solved until it is reduced to some.
JP Morgan quote: JP Morgan emphasized that problems are solved by defining them specifically, not by vague thoughts. Undefined issues feel unsolvable because their concrete shape is missing. This principle applies to financial stress, where vague worries transform into specific numbers and timelines, making them easier to manage and overcome.
The Department of Pension and Pensioners' Welfare has issued new guidelines on gratuity for government employees re-employed in civil services. The clarification addresses situations where individuals have already received gratuity for military service. It outlines conditions under which a separate gratuity for re-employment will not be granted.
Top 7 flexi cap mutual funds to invest in December 2025
ETMutualFunds shortlisted top flexi cap funds using rolling returns, consistency, risk and size filters. Parag Parikh and HDFC Flexi Cap emerged as consistent leaders, while others showed mixed quartile performance, highlighting the importance of long-term horizons for investors.
NFO Alert: ICICI Prudential Life Insurance launches Sector Leaders Index Fund
ICICI Prudential Life launched a Sector Leaders Index Fund under ULIPs, offering passive exposure to market-leading companies across 20+ sectors, aiming to simplify long-term equity investing with diversification, discipline and a rule-based approach aligned to Indias growth story.
Aryaman Financial Services arm receives RBI registration
AFSL, in a regulatory filing, said its WOS has received the CoR to commence/carry on the business of a Non-Banking Financial Institution (Category: Type II NBFC-Non-Deposit taking-Investment and Credit Company)
With February 1, 2026, falling on a Sunday, the presentation of India's Union Budget is under scrutiny. While parliamentary conventions suggest it could be presented on the Sunday, a final decision rests with the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs. This date shift aims to ensure budget implementation by April 1, the start of the fiscal year.
Mutual funds launched a record 222 NFOs in 2025 till November, raising Rs 63,631 crore. Index funds dominated launches, while sectoral and thematic schemes attracted the highest inflows, highlighting investor preference for targeted and passive strategies.
HDFC Mutual Fund announces change in fund managers for its 3 equity funds as Roshi Jain exits
HDFC Mutual Fund has reshuffled fund managers for three key equity schemes effective December 8, 2025, following the exit of Roshi Jain, while all scheme terms and investment objectives remain unchanged.
Will your income tax refund be stopped if your ITR is not processed by December 31, 2025?
Income tax refund: Taxpayers filing revised or belated ITRs by December 31, 2025, have until December 31, 2026, for the Income Tax Department to process them. If the deadline passes without processing, the ITR becomes final, and any due refund will be issued with interest.
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested two bank officials for accepting bribes. They helped cyber criminals open mule accounts for money laundering. These accounts were used to transfer funds from cyber frauds. The officials also advised criminals on avoiding detection. This operation highlights how bank insiders enable cybercrime. Investigations are ongoing.
How equity and gold SIPs can turn Rs 24,000 into Rs 6 crore in nearly 2 decades
Long-term wealth hinges on disciplined SIP investing, regular step-ups and diversification. A 22-year equity-focused SIP, complemented by gold allocation and annual contribution increases, can significantly enhance retirement corpus while countering inflation.
Smart Money Tip of the Week: What is the 25 rule and how can it help you retire early?
Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) has gained a lot of popularity among the younger generation, especially Gen Z. It is a concept that helps people plan early retirement, as opposed to the conventional retirement age of 60 years. A thumb rule of personal finance states that you can aim to achieve financial independence by building a corpus that is 25 times your annual expenses.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on December 27, 2025?
As the year concludes, Indian banks have limited working days remaining. Several other state-specific holidays are also impacting banking operations throughout December, including Christmas and New Year's Eve.
Quote of the day by Benjamin Graham: But investing isnt about beating others at their game...
Benjamin Graham quote: Benjamin Graham emphasized controlling oneself over beating others in the market. He warned that fear and greed are investors' true enemies, leading to poor decisions.
CICs seek RBI nod to use utility bill data for Grameen Credit Score
The move aims to improve credit assessment for rural borrowers and SHG members who often have limited or no formal credit history.
PNB said the amount of borrower fraud in the case of SEFL and SIFL stood at 1240.94 crore and 1193.06 crore, respectively.
Michael Bloomberg's quote: 'If you dont encounter setbacks in your career, if you dont have doubts and disappointments, let me tell you, youre not dreaming big enough,' encourages individuals to embrace challenges and step outside their comfort zones.
UTI Mutual Fund announces change in symbols of ETFs across NSE and BSE
UTI AMC has revised the trading symbols of select equity, debt, and commodity ETFs listed on NSE and BSE, effective December 24, 2025. The new naming convention adds a BETA suffix to improve clarity, consistency, and ease of identification, with no change to investment objectives or portfolios.
Tenants who illegally constructed two additional floors on a rented property in Shimla have been ordered to demolish them by the Himachal Pradesh High Court. The court ruled that rent payment does not confer ownership rights, and unauthorized construction without landlord or municipal permission is illegal. The landlords successfully proved their ownership and the tenants' violation of building norms.
PSB consolidation to gain momentum in 2026 as Govt eyes big, world-class banks
NEW DELHI, Dec 26: Consolidation in public sector banks is expected to gain momentum in the coming year, as the Government has expressed its desire to have more big, world-class banks in the country to fuel the next phase of growth for Viksit Bharat by 2047. Last month, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India needs many big, world-class banks, and work in this regard has already commenced. The Government has initiated discussions with the Reserve Bank and public sector banks, [] The post PSB consolidation to gain momentum in 2026 as Govt eyes big, world-class banks appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
GST exemption boosts health insurance coverage, average sum insured jumps 31%: Report
The report said that after the removal of GST, the average health insurance cover increased from 14.5 lakh in the pre-GST period to 19 lakh in the post-GST period
PAN Aadhaar Card link deadline: It is crucial to prevent your PAN from becoming inoperative. A deadline of December 31, 2025, is set for certain individuals. Failure to link by this date will result in your PAN becoming inactive from January 1, 2026. A Rs 1,000 penalty applies for late linkage.
Mutual fund AUM set to surpass Rs 300 trillion by 2035: ICRA Analytics
The Indian mutual fund industry continues its robust growth trajectory, with AUM rising to Rs 81 trillion by November 2025, driven by strong retail participation, SIP inflows, and digital adoption. Flexicap, multi-cap, and smallcap funds led equity growth, while debt and money market funds delivered steady returns. Industry outlook remains bullish.
Precious metals lead, mid caps power equity returns in 10 years
Gold and silver topped long-term returns over a decade, while equities across market caps created wealth with volatility and debt delivered steady performance.
