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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.
Wife sought Rs 50,000 interim maintenance; high court awards only Rs 2,500; heres why
In a family court battle, a wife sought a generous Rs 50,000 per month for her maintenance. However, the court granted her a mere Rs 2,500. The husband appealed this decision, but the Allahabad High Court stood firm, emphasizing that a capable husband has a legal and moral obligation to support his wife.
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.
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.
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.
Big win for depositors: Bank cannot lower FD rate once booked, rules Allahabad High Court
Banks cannot unilaterally cut fixed deposit interest rates after they are booked. The Allahabad High Court ruled this in favor of FD holders. The court stated that FD investors rely on promised rates. This judgment protects depositors from retrospective rate reductions. The bank must pay interest at the originally contracted rates.
Physical gold vs Gold ETF: Which gold investment should you choose in 2026?
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.
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.
Best value funds to invest in December 2025
When you are following value investing principles, there may be periods when your stocks would underperform in the market. All you need to do at that time is just to stick to your strategy and wait patiently. However, the last few years taught investors that it is not easy to follow. Many investors lost patience and they sold their investments.
Indian Railways has taken strong action against fraudulent user IDs. Over 3 crore suspicious IDs were deactivated since January 2025. This move aims to stop bots from booking Tatkal tickets for resale. Measures include anti-bot software and OTP verification for bookings. These steps are improving confirmed Tatkal ticket availability for genuine passengers.
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.
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
9 equity mutual fund categories received inflows in November, flexi cap leads. Check details
Equity mutual fund inflows surged in November, rising nearly 12%, with strong contributions from large & midcap, midcap, smallcap, focused, and sectoral/thematic categories. Flexicap funds continued to lead, while ELSS and dividend-yield funds recorded withdrawals. Overall, risk-oriented categories dominated investor interest.
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.
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
ITR refund delay explained: Reasons why your tax refund is delayed this year and how to check status
Many taxpayers are experiencing delays in receiving their income tax refunds due to common filing errors. These include failing to verify ITRs within 30 days, not addressing defects, or having unvalidated bank accounts. Additionally, missed responses to departmental intimations regarding adjustments or outstanding demands can also lead to significant refund hold-ups.
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.
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.
PFRDA widens investment rules, allows pension funds to invest in top 250 stocks and commodity ETFs
The regulator has also approved investments in gold and silver ETFs, enabling exposure to commodities for the first time
SBI, BoB get RBI nod to set up fraud detection platform
Indian Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation will be established as a Section 8 company (a special type of non-profit organisation) under the Companies Act, 2013
Bank of Baroda recognised as Best Bank in India by The Banker
The Banker says BoB has improved customer experience by enhancing its phygital banking services
BoI raises 2,500 crore via Tier II bonds at 7.28%
The base issue size was 1,000 crore with a green shoe option of 1,500 crore
Jio Financial and Blackrock pump Rs 229 crore into their joint venture AMC business
Jio Financial and BlackRock infused Rs 229 crore each into their joint venture to accelerate the expansion of Jio BlackRock Asset Management. The capital will support scaling a low-cost, tech-driven mutual fund platform leveraging Reliances digital reach and BlackRocks global investment expertise.
IndusInd Bank chief Mehta could exit bank next month, say sources
Mehta, former chairman at YES Bank and Punjab National Bank, steered IndusInd through its leadership crisis earlier which unfolded after the bank reported discrepancies in its derivatives portfolio which led to around Rs 2,000 crore impact on balance sheet.
Energy transition-focused fund Transition VC closes its debut fund at 700 cr
More than half of the fund has already been committed, and the firm is actively looking to deploy the remaining capital into founders building high-conviction solutions across the energy transition spectrum
ITR intimation: When do you receive it, what is the password, and how to respond
Once your ITR is processed, the Income Tax Department sends an intimation under Section 143(1) to inform you whether you owe additional tax or are eligible for a refund.
Lost money badly? Heres how to rebuild your finances step by step
5 retirement planning blunders that could turn a comfortable retirement into a financial struggle
Most Indians either start retirement planning too late or don't plan at all, hoping an abstract retirement corpus will be enough. But once retirement arrives, that comfortable nest egg might fall short. Here are five critical mistakes that could leave you struggling in your golden years, and how to avoid them.
Ageas Federal Life Insurance launches new brand identity
Ageas Federal, a joint venture between the Ageas Group and Federal Bank that began operations in 2008, operates through 3,770-plus branches including partner bank branches
Planning to invest in Parag Parikh Large Cap Fund? 6 key differences from PPFAS MFs flexi cap fund
PPFAS Mutual Fund, known for operating a single equity scheme for over 12 years, is set to launch a largecap fund in January 2026. Unlike the existing flexi cap scheme, the new fund will follow a rules-based approach, stay fully invested, and focus on Nifty 100 stocks while targeting smart execution.
Bank of Baroda launches Masterstroke campaign with Sachin Tendulkar
The campaign promotes four retail banking products: home loans, car loans, MSME loans through bob Digi Udyam, and the bob Masterstroke Lite Savings Account
Advance tax calculator 2025-26: How much you must pay on salary and LTCG income
As we approach FY 2025-26, it's essential to get a grip on advance tax, particularly for those relying on salary income or long-term capital gains. If your estimated tax dues go over Rs 10,000, you must make advance payments. Good news for salaried professionals: if TDS applies to your situation, you may be off the hook.
Top 5 smallcap mutual funds offer over 20% annualised return in 3 years
The top five smallcap mutual funds have delivered over 20% annualised returns in three years, while the weakest performers lost up to 15%, ETWealth data shows.
SMFG India Credits digital business hits 25% of total portfolio
The digital segment has grown at a 45% compound annual growth rate over the past two years, driven primarily by partnerships with fintech companies targeting small merchants, gig workers, and self-employed borrowers
India's Income Tax Department is collecting substantial revenue from cryptocurrency transactions. Over Rs 1,100 crore in tax has been gathered in the last three financial years. Maharashtra alone contributed 60% of this amount. The government has also taken action against crypto exchanges, uncovering over Rs 1,000 crore in undisclosed income related to virtual digital assets.
Confused between real estate, mutual funds or REITs for a 10-year investment horizon? Heres what ETWealth suggests for individuals with a Rs 30 lakh corpus.
How to use an income tax calculator for investments and financial planning
An income tax calculator simplifies financial planning. It estimates your tax liability, showing how deductions and investments impact your net taxable income. Understand tax benefits of term insurance and other savings. Compare old and new tax regimes to choose the best option. This tool helps plan monthly cash flow and allocate funds for long-term goals, building wealth and financial stability.
NFO Alert: Axis Mutual Fund launches Axis Gold & Silver Passive FoF
Axis Mutual Fund has launched the Axis Gold & Silver Passive FoF, offering investors a simple way to gain balanced exposure to gold and silver through ETFs. The NFO is open until December 22, with a minimum investment of Rs 100. The fund aims to provide diversification and inflation-hedging benefits.
Will my life insurance policy be affected if I change my nationality?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: Please clarify how, if at all, my LIC life insurance policy will be affected if I take a passport of some other nationality?
The Ahmedabad branch of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal has issued a pivotal judgment, reaffirming that agricultural land retains its status, even with the imposition of higher stamp duty. This ruling originated from a situation where a taxpayer faced additional income tax liabilities.
JioBlackRock Flexi Cap Fund has significantly reshuffled its holdings, exiting Tata Motors and 14 other stocks in November. The fund welcomed Canara Bank and Adani Energy Solutions among 11 new additions. Exposure was boosted in about 40 stocks, while nine saw reduced investment, reflecting an active strategy in a dynamic market.
2,000 crore returned so far under 'Your Money, Your Right' initiative
Indian banks are holding 78,000 crore of unclaimed money, while insurance companies have nearly 14,000 crore lying unclaimed
Employer deducted TDS but didnt deposit it: ITAT Kolkata saves employee from Rs 14 lakh tax demand
In a noteworthy decision, the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal in Kolkata has come to the aid of an employee who found themselves in a challenging situation. Despite the employer's failure to remit TDS deductions to the government, the Tribunal ruled that the employee should not bear the brunt of this oversight.
Struggling with multiple loans? Heres how debt consolidation can save your finances
IndusInd Bank chairman to step down in January amid organisational overhaul
IndusInd Banks board has faced criticism from investors over shortfalls in oversight and delay in disclosing the accounting lapses in its derivative portfolio, which led to the hit to the banks accounts
Edelweiss to tap small-town India in race to capture new wealth
When the company opens a new presence in a Tier 3 city, the outlet is able to break even in as early as 18 to 24 months, Edelweiss AMCs CEO Radhika Gupta said
Take home salary may drop for new employees under new Labour Code 2025: What jobseekers must know
A new labour code effective November 21, 2025, requires wages to be at least 50% of an employee's CTC. This change may increase overall salary costs by 5-10%. Employers might restructure CTCs for new hires to manage higher gratuity and PF liabilities. Existing employees' CTCs cannot be unilaterally reduced. Companies with lower wage components will see the most impact.
Best flexi cap mutual funds to invest in December 2025
Flexi cap mutual funds provide investment flexibility across market caps and sectors. Fund managers can adapt strategies based on market outlook. These funds are recommended for moderate investors aiming for long-term wealth growth. Investors should align fund choices with their risk appetite.
USD vs INR: Is it the best time for NRIs to transfer money to India as Rupee falls below 90 per USD?
The Indian rupee has hit a historic low against the US dollar, crossing 90. This presents a significant opportunity for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to convert dollars to rupees, potentially gaining more value. While converting now offers an advantage, experts advise a staggered approach to manage risks and capitalize on future currency movements.
Bajaj Finance Share Price Live Updates: Bajaj Finance's three-month return showcases market strength
M&M Share Price Live Updates: M&M's three-month returns fall into negative territory
Credit provided by capital markets will overtake bank credit: Kotak Mahindra AMC chief Nilesh Shah
Mutual fund credit is set to surpass bank credit. Nilesh Shah of Kotak Mahindra AMC predicts this shift. He urges Indians to invest wisely, moving away from unproductive habits. Radhika Gupta of Edelweiss Mutual Fund suggests incentives for early investment. A lock-in period could encourage long-term wealth creation for young investors.
AU Small Finance Bank receives DFS approval for increase in foreign investment limit from 49% to 74%
The DFS approval comes four months after the Bank received in-principal approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for transitioning to a universal bank
Lenders unlikely to sharply cut deposit, MCLR rates despite repo cut, senior bankers say
In response to the cumulative 100 bps cut between Feb-Oct 2025, the weighted average lending rate (WALR) of banks declined by 69 bps for fresh rupee loans, while WALR of outstanding rupee loans reduced by 63 bps
Authorised Dealers to disclose transaction costs for foreign exchange contracts to retail users: RBI
Transaction cost will include remittance fees, foreign exchange rate, currency conversion charges etc
RBIs $5 billion dollar/rupee swap aims to stabilise the rupee without depleting forex reserves
They believe the central bank may have hit upon the aforementioned strategy to stabilise the Rrupee, which vaulted over the psychologically crucial 90 to the Ddollar mark last week
Avoid complacency and remain vigilant in a dynamic environment, RBI Guv Malhotra tells top bankers
In latest bi-monthly monetary policy statement, Malhotra highlighted that the system-level financial parameters related to capital adequacy, liquidity, asset quality and profitability of Scheduled Commercial Banks continue to remain robust
Anil Ambanis son Jai Anmol under CBI glare in 228 cr bank fraud case
A bank has accused RHFL, its then director Jai Anmol Ambani, and former CEO Ravindra Sharad Sudhakar of defaulting on credit facilities which eventually led the account to be classified as NPA in 2019
SBI to hire around 16,000 people each fiscal, open 200-300 branches in FY26: Chairman
The bank aims to use its wholly owned subsidiary State Bank Operations Support Services (SBOSS) in rural and semi-urban areas
LICs Protection Plus explained: Premium options, maturity benefits and key features
The Kerala government has released its list of public holidays for 2026, designating specific days for state employees, banks, and financial institutions. The notification, issued under the Negotiable Instruments Act, includes a comprehensive list of festivals and observances, with Sundays also declared as public holidays.
Indias mutual fund and equity assets set to grow more than sixfold by FY2035 : Report
Indias mutual fund AUM is projected to surpass Rs 300 lakh crore by 2035, with direct equity holdings expected to reach Rs 250 lakh crore over the same period, signalling a major shift in the countrys investment landscape, according to a report How India Invests 2025 released by Bain & Company in partnership with Groww.
