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Wealth quote of the day: Never spend money before. by Thomas Jefferson
People often fall into debt traps due to easy spending in the digital age. Unproductive, high-cost debts like credit card balances grow rapidly. This situation arises when spending exceeds income. While credit is vital for education and housing, impulsive borrowing for lifestyle expenses creates long-term debt cycles. Thomas Jefferson's advice to not spend money before earning it remains relevant.
IOB Officers Association threatens nationwide strike on Mar 2 over alleged coercive practices
In a statement, it claimed that repeated representations highlighting concerns over morale, mental well-being and institutional functioning have not received an adequate response
PhonePe launches AI-powered natural language search built on Microsoft Foundry
NEW DELHI, Feb 21:PhonePe on Saturday launched an AI-powered natural language search feature built using Microsoft Foundry, allowing users to navigate, pay and track transactions on the app through simple voice or text commands. This feature enables PhonePe users to initiate and complete in-app tasks via natural language text or voice commands, enhancing convenience and bringing personalisation to the platform's overall experience, PhonePe said in a statement. The feature replaces traditional menu-based navigation with intent-based routing, enabling users to complete [] The post PhonePe launches AI-powered natural language search built on Microsoft Foundry appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PhonePe launches AI-powered search built using Microsoft Foundry
The feature aims to help users navigate, pay and track transaction insights by using simple voice or text commands.
Highest FD interest rate: With FD rates declining, investors seeking fixed returns should carefully consider their options. Small finance banks currently offer the highest FD interest rates, reaching up to 7.90% per annum.
Kerala government employees and pensioners will receive a significant financial boost with a 10% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR), raising them from 25% to 35%. This increase, effective from March 2026 salary and April 2026 pension disbursements, benefits a wide range of state-funded personnel.
Bought and sold gold or silver ETFs on same day amid sharp price swings? Know the tax impact
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi: Farmers eagerly await the PM Kisan 22nd instalment of Rs 2,000. This payment is tentatively scheduled between February end and March 2026. eKYC is a mandatory requirement for all registered PM Kisan beneficiaries.
10 tax-free incomes in India: PPF, EPF, gratuity, life insurance maturity & more
Know Your Fund Manager | Basant Bafna, Head Fixed Income, Mirae Asset
Basant Bafna of Mirae Asset Mutual Fund says his investment approach prioritises client-first discipline, high-credit-quality portfolios and active duration management. Drawing on experience at Export-Import Bank of India, he focuses on risk-adjusted returns backed by data, with alpha generation as the key motivation.
How to manage one mutual fund portfolio for multiple financial goals
A well-structured mutual fund portfolio can help investors achieve multiple financial goals without frequent changes. Experts suggest maintaining diversification, gradually reducing risk for short-term goals, and increasing SIP contributions for long-term targets. Regular portfolio reviews and disciplined investing remain key to balancing returns, risk, and goal-based planning effectively.
IDBI Bank officers, staff serve notice for nationwide hunger strike on March 9
Warns of intensified action, including indefinite strike, if move for privatising bank is not revoked
Higher HRA, bigger tax-free perks: How draft Income-Tax Rules 2026 could boost your take-home pay
Budget 2026 introduces significant perquisite rule changes, lowering taxable housing valuations and increasing tax-free limits for education, meals, and gifts. While motor car perquisite values rise for employer-owned vehicles, employee-owned cars see a decrease in taxable value. These adjustments aim to boost employee take-home pay by reducing taxable income components.
The Supreme Court has ruled against granting equal status and benefits to contractual employees as regular staff. It stated that such a move would legitimize arbitrary hiring practices and undermine regular recruitment safeguards. However, the court urged employers to sympathetically consider regularizing long-serving contractual employees on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing this decision is not a precedent.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on February 21, 2026?
Bank holiday today: All public, private, cooperative and regional rural banks are subject to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulation. The RBI publishes a state-wise holiday list in its holiday calendar.
Following RBI's August 2024 guidelines, P2P lending platforms now offer greater transparency and investor control, stripping away guaranteed returns and algorithmic auto-investing. While still capable of higher yields than traditional fixed-income products, investors must now actively manage risks, diversify extensively, and understand platform fees and exit limitations.
SBI is in talks with Japanese banks to jointly bankroll acquisition financing
Banks should give loans to small businesses at cheaper interest rates: DFS Secretary
Nagaraju observed that Indian banks credit-to-GDP ratio stands at just 57%. This is significantly lower than economies like China, which has 199% credit-to-GDP ratio; the US at 147% and Japan at 153%
LIC MFs Pocket SIP accounts hit 1.80 lakh
The fund house facilitates minimum daily and weekly SIP of 100 and 150, while monthly SIP can start from 200
Corporate bond yields hardened across tenors and the rating spectrum, with their spreads over corresponding maturity government securities generally widening
As external sources like prices of oil, commodity, etc., are expected to weigh on inflation, MPC members called for maintaining status quo on repo rate
Wealth quote of the day: You must gain control over your money, or.. says Dave Ramsay
Money management is key to financial freedom. Smart habits help achieve life goals. Dave Ramsy, a financial advisor, emphasizes living on less than you earn. Proper spending, saving, and budgeting create stability. Understanding where money comes from and goes is vital. This approach builds a strong financial foundation over time.
Bank locker guidelines: Is the bank responsible for loss or damage to locker contents?
Double tax trouble? Here are 5 changes that draft Income Tax Rules 2026 must address
Draft Income-Tax Rules 2026 aim for voluntary compliance but require crucial changes to prevent taxpayers from paying twice. Key issues include protecting deductees from deductor defaults, rationalizing Tax Collected at Source (TCS) for NRIs, automating excess TDS refunds, and refining Statement of Financial Transactions (SFT) rules to avoid double reporting and procedural burdens.
Abakkus Mutual Fund, backed by Sunil Singhania, will launch its small cap fund NFO on February 26, closing March 12. The scheme aims to capture long-term growth through diversified small cap investments. With high-risk exposure and sectoral opportunities, the fund targets investors seeking higher returns amid evolving market dynamics.
High earners in India face financial distress despite good incomes. Poor money management, lifestyle inflation, and social pressure lead to debt. Financial educator Neha Nagar shares seven steps for financial independence. These include saving, clearing debts, building emergency funds, investing, and upskilling. This approach can help individuals achieve long-term wealth and security.
Investors see Bitcoin dip as investment opportunity: Mridul Gupta, Founding Partner, CoinDCX
The price correction offers investors a great chance to enter, with many starting new SIPs and portfolio deployments in this asset class
Unchallenged Will enough for land mutation, says Supreme Court; sale agreement holder loses claim
The Supreme Court has ruled that an unchallenged will is enough for land mutation. A landowner's registered will allows a beneficiary to get land mutation. Another person's unregistered sale agreement claim was dismissed. Mutation is for revenue purposes and does not grant ownership title. This decision clarifies land revenue laws in Madhya Pradesh.
Rs 5 crore retirement fund enough or not? Heres how to plan withdrawals so your money doesnt run out
Old regime revival? Do the math first
Meaningful gains under the old regime hinge largely on HRA -- and not everyone may qualify.
The Supreme Court has ordered the eviction of a son from his elderly parents' Mumbai properties. The court ruled that the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, allows tribunals to evict children who fail to maintain their senior parents. The son was also directed to pay maintenance to his parents.
Draft Income Tax Rules 2026: Allowance hikes that could make switching to old tax regime worth it
.The Income Tax Department has revealed that these fraudulent messages often contain minor spelling errors and fake links designed to appear genuine. The I-T Department has asked citizens to verify all tax-related information only through its official website.
From SIPs to EPF: 8 steps to grow, protect and preserve your wealth in India
Freelancer or gig worker? How to improve your chances of getting a personal loan without salary slip
No possession, no lease rent: Allahabad HC bars NOIDA from charging rent before handing over plot
The Allahabad High Court ruled that Noida cannot charge lease rent for a plot until possession is officially handed over. The court stated that if a separate possession certificate for a sub-divided plot was not issued, that period is considered 'zero period' and no rent is due.
Google bigger than India GDP? Sanjeev Bikhchandani exposes the flaw in that viral claim
A viral post claiming Google is bigger than India drew a sharp rebuttal from Sanjeev Bikhchandani, who explained that comparing market cap with GDP is fundamentally flawed. He noted that a valid comparison would use Googles revenue, not its valuation, to assess scale.
Top sectors that witnessed high levels of buying by mutual funds in January
Mutual funds drove strong buying in January across private banks, pharma, e-commerce, auto, ports, and consumer sectors, with top picks including HDFC Bank, Biocon, Swiggy, M&M, and ITC.
Best banking & PSU mutual funds to invest in February 2026
Banking & PSU debt funds offer relatively safe investment options for a few years, investing primarily in government-backed entities to minimize credit risk. While interest rate fluctuations pose a risk, these funds are generally better positioned due to shorter-duration investments. Investors considering a three-year horizon can explore recommended schemes like Axis Banking & PSU Debt Fund.
ONGC Share Price Live Updates: ONGC's strong monthly return
Coal India Share Price Live Updates: Coal India reports a monthly return drop
Hero MotoCorp Share Price Live Updates: Hero MotoCorp's beta value signals increased risk
Wipro Share Price Live Updates: Wipro's Performance Overview
The Supreme Court of India has clarified property division rules for Hindu Undivided Families. A Karta's property is considered self-acquired if proven to be from personal income, not ancestral assets. This ruling emphasizes the need for clear evidence to distinguish between joint family and individual property. The court stressed a realistic appraisal of evidence in such cases.
KVB reduces lending rates by 10 basis points from February 22
MCLR is calculated based on the marginal cost of funds, negative carry due to the cash reserve ratio, operating expenses and tenor premium
Maharashtras MSME credit guarantees rise 3.6 times in three years
The amount approved under the scheme has also seen a parallel increase
8th CPC Implementation date: When will central government employees, pensioners get arrears?
DA hike before Holi 2026? How soon can central government employees expect a rise in their salaries?
Central government employees are anticipating a 2% Dearness Allowance (DA) hike, pushing it to 60% from 58%. This increase, based on the December 2025 AICPI-IW reading, is expected to be announced soon, potentially before Holi. DA adjustments, occurring twice yearly, aim to offset inflation and impact basic salaries, which remain fixed under pay commissions.
Gold and silver prices hit record highs in January 2026 before experiencing a sharp correction. Experts advise long-term investors (5-10 years) not to panic, viewing the dip as a buying opportunity. They recommend systematic accumulation, citing strong fundamentals like central bank buying and industrial demand.
John C. Bogle warned that the financial system prioritizes selling products over investor well-being. Institutions profit from fees and transactions, creating a conflict of interest where seller incentives clash with buyer goals. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for investors to protect their long-term financial future.
Digital payments rivalry: Paytm leans on merchant edge as PhonePe scales volume, say brokerages
Paytm reported a higher total revenue of 38.6 billion for the first half of the 2026 fiscal year, compared to PhonePes 31.6 billion
ANMI seeks 6-month freeze on RBI rules that curb bank lending, document shows
The Reserve Bank of India tightened norms for bank lending last week, saying that the cash collateral for guarantees will be raised to 100% from 50%
Indias state banks draw foreign funds, bucking wider pullback
The resilience of state banks contrasts with $19 billion of net foreign outflows from the nations equities last year, signaling global funds are reallocating toward areas seen as offering steadier earnings visibility and insulation from AI-driven volatility
10 tax-free incomes in India: EPF, PPF, gratuity, tax-free bonds & more
Unlock tax savings with these 10 income sources exempt from income tax in India. From agricultural earnings and PPF/EPF returns to life insurance maturity and scholarships, understand how to legally reduce your tax burden.
Start early: 5 Smart money lessons every child must learn
A Delhi woman reported Rs 60 lakh worth of jewelry missing from her bank locker, prompting a police investigation. Despite no signs of forced entry, the incident raises questions about bank liability. Current RBI regulations cap compensation at 100 times the annual locker rent, emphasizing the need for private insurance to cover the full value of valuables.
Form 16, 26AS and others renamed: Big income tax form changes from April 1, 2026
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has significantly increased CGHS medical reimbursement limits for central government employees. Heads of departments can now settle claims up to Rs 10 lakh without IFD consultation, provided rules are not relaxed and rates are adhered to. Previously, this limit was Rs 5 lakh.
High salary earners are receiving 'nudge' notices from the Income Tax Department. These notices prompt employees to correct errors like undeclared property income, crypto gains, and ESOPs. The department is offering a final chance to voluntarily fix mistakes before taking stricter action. This initiative aims to ensure accurate tax declarations and compliance among affluent taxpayers.
Digital payments growth moderates to 11%, as adoption matures
The DPI, with March 2018 as the base, climbed to 516.76 by September 2025, more than five times its initial level
Can I change my health insurance company after donating a kidney?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I am a kidney donor and have a health insurance policy. I am unhappy with my current insurance company and want to know if I can move to a new insurer.
Is copper the next big investment after gold and silver? Heres how experts view the opportunity
Coppers sharp rally has sparked interest among investors wondering if it could be the next big opportunity after gold and silver. Experts caution that direct or indirect exposure to the commodity involves significant volatility and complexity, stressing that investorsespecially seniorsmust clearly define their objectives before entering this high-risk space.
Top sectors that witnessed high levels of selling by mutual funds in January
Mutual funds trimmed positions across seven key sectors in January, with the heaviest selling in metals, IT services and cables, alongside notable exits in PSU banks, oil & gas, utilities and capital goods, JM Financial data shows.
Best conservative hybrid mutual funds to invest in February 2026
Mutual fund advisors are predicting 2025 as the year for hybrid funds, especially for new investors navigating economic uncertainties. Conservative hybrid funds, with a majority in debt and a small equity portion, offer a cautious entry. These funds aim for modest equity gains while prioritizing capital preservation. Experts highlight specific schemes for consideration.
Bank holiday today: Are banks closed or open today in your state for Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti?
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: This significant holiday commemorates the birth anniversary of the Maratha ruler. While banking services are unavailable in Maharashtra, branches in other Indian states will operate as usual. Customers are advised to verify holiday status for any bank-related tasks.
Holding 10+ mutual funds? Why 35 funds may be enoughand how to exit without losing money
The Supreme Court has settled a family land dispute between two brothers, awarding one a 5/16th share in ancestral HUF properties. The court ruled that acquisitions made during joint family existence are presumed joint unless proven otherwise. The other brother retains select self-acquired lands, with the apex court upholding lower court findings.
Instant redemption helps lure retail investors to liquid funds
Retail investors are shifting their savings from low-interest bank accounts to Liquid and Overnight funds, attracted by the Instant Redemption feature. This allows for quick access to funds within minutes, enabling investors to earn higher returns of 6.5% to 7% while maintaining liquidity for everyday needs and emergencies.
RBI mandates unique transaction identifier for OTC derivatives from 2027
UTIs are key global data elements for reporting OTC derivatives, providing policymakers with a comprehensive view of the market
Banks may convert low-balance accounts to zero-balance BSBDAs or PMJDY
The move aims to protect economically vulnerable clients, as many remain unaware of zero-balance options
Banks must play foundational role in Indias Viksit Bharat 2047 journey: Debasish Panda
Panda called for removing regulatory and policy bottlenecks and urged collaboration under industry bodies to meet emerging challenges.
Stable Money raises $25 million in pre-Series C round led by Peak XV Partners
Stable Money said users can book fixed deposits without opening a savings account and access instant withdrawals. It also offers short-term fixed deposits, secured credit cards and other products.
Muthoot MCred Q3 profit jumps nearly twofold to 52.16 crore
Muthoot MCreds AUM stands at 5,494.58 crore
SMBC, Julius Baer among firms setting up GCCs in India
Expansion push comes as US immigration policies add friction to deploying Indian talent overseas
The bank tied up with US-based cloud software provider Salesforce last year to rejig its loan origination systems (LOS) in order to deliver a digital-first experience for customers
NPCI collaborates with NVIDIA to advance India's sovereign AI infrastructure for digital payments
The National Payments Corporation of India has teamed up with NVIDIA in a dynamic collaboration that promises to elevate the nations payment systems through the power of advanced AI. Targeting the construction of a strong and secure AI framework, this venture will enable expansive real-time payment processes while adhering to the principles of regulatory and data sovereignty.
Thinking of investing abroad? GIFT City vs LRS vs global funds pros, costs and tax explained
Online death claim: Indian Overseas Bank has introduced a new online portal for death claim settlements. Families can now submit claims from anywhere, simplifying the process. Claims up to Rs 15 lakh require no third-party surety and will be processed within 15 days.
Gold taxation explained: Physical gold, ETF, SGB or inherited gold - Where do you pay more tax?
Government employees in India are being targeted by a new cyber fraud offering estimated 8th Pay Commission salary hikes. Scammers send WhatsApp messages with APK file links, which, upon installation, grant them access to victims' phones and bank accounts. The government urges employees to avoid unverified links and APK files, emphasizing official channels for pay commission information.
5 Income champions: High dividend yield stocks for steady cash flow
Dividend yield shows the annual cash return you earn from a stock as a percentage of its current price. Smart income investors balance high yields with business fundamentals to build reliable passive income streams.
An individual earned Rs 17 lakh in rental income and paid no tax. This was achieved by utilizing a 30% standard deduction on rental income. Further deductions and tax rebates under both old and new tax regimes can eliminate tax liability. This strategy highlights potential tax savings for property owners.
CTC vs in-hand salary: How you can negotiate smarter and boost long-term earnings in India
Lady wins Rs 83 lakh capital gains tax exemption case: ITAT Mumbai flags officers jurisdiction error
A taxpayer successfully challenged an Rs 83 lakh capital gains tax exemption denial in ITAT Mumbai. The Income Tax officer erred by reopening the assessment without specifying the Section 54F exemption as a reason. ITAT Mumbai ruled the officer lacked jurisdiction for this addition, quashing the disallowance based on a Bombay High Court precedent.
Gold vs silver investing in 2026: How the 80/50 ratio strategy can boost your returns
Husband's death in Covid leaves widow unable to repay loan; SC invokes Article 142 to cut dues
The Supreme Court has intervened to help a widow struggling to repay a Rs 50 lakh loan taken by her deceased husband. After his death during Covid-19, the bank classified the loan as NPA. Despite a settlement offer, the wife faced mounting dues. The SC, invoking Article 142, reduced her repayment burden, granting her relief.
Good news for Indian families! The Union Budget 2026 significantly reduces Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on overseas education and medical remittances from 5% to 2% for amounts exceeding Rs 10 lakh annually. This change, effective April 1, 2026, offers substantial upfront cash flow relief, allowing families to save up to Rs 1.
