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From Rs 2 lakh cash payments to Rs 50 lakh deposits: Transactions that trigger SFT reporting
IndusInd Bank treasury head set to exit in April
Banerjee, who has been the head of the global markets group at IndusInd Bank since 2020, has informed the management about his decision, say sources
RBI ramps up support to shield bonds from oil shock
The category, which comprises insurance companies, pension funds, corporates and the RBI, bought bonds worth 20,285 crore on Wednesday, the highest for this segment since February 2021
South Indian Bank launches digitally integrated loan against MF products
Starting at 9.99% per annum, the facility will be available to the banks customers as well as users of digital wealth platforms integrated through its Lending Service Provider ecosystem
Half the salary for wife's maintenance? Supreme Court orders direct deduction from husbands pay
The Supreme Court has directed a husband's employer to deduct Rs 25,000 monthly from his salary. This amount will be sent directly to his estranged wife for the maintenance of her and their minor child. The court took this step after the husband failed to comply with previous maintenance orders. He had also not supported his daughter for four years.
Womens Day 2026: Indias leading 3 female portfolio managers. Check how they navigate market cycles
A Morningstar report spotlights three leading women fund managers in IndiaSunaina Da Cunha, Meenakshi Dawar, and Rajasa Kakulavarapu. Through disciplined investment strategies and strong long-term performance across debt, value, and flexi-cap funds, they exemplify the growing influence of women professionals in senior portfolio management roles.
Madhya Pradesh government employees will receive a 58% dearness allowance starting April 2026. This matches the central government's rate. Arrears from July 2025 to March 2026 will be paid in installments from May 2026. Pensioners will also see a dearness relief increase. Meanwhile, Kerala government recently approved a 10% DA hike.
This pension plan offers guaranteed lifetime income combined with market-linked growth potential through up to 40% equity exposure. It also provides flexible premium payment options and immediate or deferred annuity choices, catering to evolving retirement planning needs and ensuring financial security for individuals.
Axis Mutual Fund announces elevation of R Sivakumar as CIO
Axis Asset Management Company has elevated R Sivakumar as Chief Investment Officer following the exit of Ashish Gupta. A founding member of Axis AMC, Sivakumar brings more than 25 years of experience and will lead the fund houses investment strategy, research processes and investment teams as part of the firms internal succession plan.
Tata AIA launches pension plan blending guaranteed income with market-linked returns
The plan allows policyholders to allocate a portion of their annuity to the Nifty 50 index, while the remainder is secured as fixed income
AI-Powered Ionic Wealth crosses $1 billion AUM in 22 months of operations
Ionic Wealth, an AI-driven wealth-tech platform, has achieved $1 billion in assets under management within 22 months. This success stems from its unique omnichannel approach, blending expert advice with advanced technology. The platform offers features like AI-powered virtual assistants and seamless portfolio aggregation, catering to India's burgeoning affluent investor base.
PNB trims ATM cash withdrawal limit by 50% for these debit cards: Check list of impacted cards
Punjab National Bank is adjusting daily ATM cash withdrawal limits for certain debit cards starting April 1, 2026. Customers can now withdraw up to Rs 50,000 or Rs 75,000 daily depending on their card type. These changes aim to enhance security and customer safety. Limits for other card types and POS transactions remain unchanged.
RBI deducted TDS on full interest on GOI Savings Bonds. How do I avoid double taxation?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I had purchased GOI Savings Bonds issued by the RBI in 2018. These bonds carried a fixed interest rate of 7.75% per annum. I reported accrued interest yearly in my ITRs using the accrual method, though it never appeared in Form 26AS. Without documents to show yearly accruals, how can I explain this to the tax authorities?
SEBIs mutual fund reforms 2026: 8 big changes that could impact your investments
Planning marriage and money: How prenups are emerging as an asset protection tool
A Mumbai man's Rs 2 lakh donation to a political party for tax deduction backfired. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Mumbai disallowed the claim, finding the party engaged in a cash-back scheme. The party, with no verifiable office, allegedly returned donations after deducting a commission, facilitating fraudulent tax claims.
A Mumbai man's Rs 2 lakh donation to a political party for tax deduction backfired. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Mumbai disallowed the claim, finding the party engaged in a cash-back scheme. The party, with no verifiable office, allegedly returned donations after deducting a commission, facilitating fraudulent tax claims.
Goal-based investing: Is a guilt-free binge fund the best way to protect your long-term investments?
MF Tracker: Kotak Small Cap Fund turns Rs 10,000 SIP to Rs 1.78 crore in over 2 decades
Kotak Small Cap Fund has demonstrated significant long-term wealth creation, turning a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP into Rs 1.78 crore over two decades. Despite recent market volatility and negative returns in specific years, the fund's quality-focused strategy and consistent management have driven strong performance across market cycles.
Gold and silver ETFs rose sharply on Thursday as escalating Middle East tensions boosted demand for safe-haven assets, while a weaker US dollar further supported bullion prices. Experts advise investors to stay disciplined with SIPs, rebalance portfolios toward resilient funds, and consider gold as a hedge amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and volatility.
Top 10 mutual funds to invest in March 2026
We have chosen two schemes from five different equity mutual fund categories - aggressive hybrid, large cap, mid cap, small cap and flexi cap schemes which we believe should be enough for regular mutual fund investors. There are caveats: read till the end to ensure you are picking up the best scheme for you.
A woman sought 5.2 crore compensation from a salon for a bad haircut, claiming it impacted her career and confidence. After an eight-year legal battle, the Supreme Court awarded her 25 lakh, stating her evidence did not justify the higher claim. The court emphasized that compensation requires reliable proof of actual loss, not just assumptions.
G-Sec yields steady despite crude surge amid West Asia tensions
Banks are supporting the yields due to year-end considerations
State Bank of India recruits 5,783 junior associates
This recruitment drive is to further strengthen customer service and branch operations across the country
Speed is not always a virtue in finance: RBI Dy Guv Swaminathan
He noted that technology is a force multiplier, which amplifies good design as well as bad design
Rupee continues to feel reverberations of West Asia war; sinks to record closing low of 92.15/$
The Rupees previous all-time closing low was 91.96 per dollar on January 29
Zuno General Insurance plans to improve combined ratio by 500-700 bps over 2 years
Currently, Motor insurance contributes around 50 per cent to the insurers gross premium, while around 35 per cent of its gross premium comes from Health insurance
AIBOA says IDBI Bank land parcels should revert back to government before divestment
Need to be secured back to the control of the Government of India before exercise of disinvestment
Axis Bank ties up with Tesla as preferred EV financier in India
Under the arrangement, Axis Bank will provide end-to-end digital loan processing for Tesla buyers, from booking through to vehicle delivery, with no paperwork required
ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund launches Diversified Equity All Cap Active FOF
ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund introduces a new investment opportunity. The ICICI Prudential Diversified Equity All Cap Active FOF will invest across large, mid, and small-cap stocks. This fund aims to provide a structured approach to market-cap allocation. It will dynamically adjust investments based on market conditions. The fund offers investors a way to participate across the market spectrum.
RBI creates intervention space as rupee faces renewed strain
RBI has changed the maturity profile of its short dollar forwards, reducing near-term delivery obligations and pushing them further out
Equity MFs down up to 18% since last Holi. Check the top 10 worst hit
A significant number of investment funds have reported losses. Out of 551 funds analyzed, 20 delivered negative returns. Tech-focused funds like Quant Teck Fund and Tata Digital India Fund saw substantial drops. Other funds such as Samco Active Momentum Fund and Mirae Asset Hang Seng TECH ETF FoF also experienced declines. Investors faced losses across various sectors.
Budget 2026s proposed Foreign Income & Assets Disclosure Scheme offers a calibrated settlement window for NRIs and residents with overseas assets facing exposure under the Black Money Act. By capping liability at 60 lakh instead of 1.20 crore in eligible casesand 1 lakh instead of 10 lakh in technical lapsesthe Scheme introduces proportionality, immunity and closure.
India, Indonesia support local currencies as Iran war hits emerging markets
As geopolitical tensions escalate in the Middle East, Indonesia and India take decisive action to bolster their currencies against rising oil prices and inflationary pressures
Out of these 12 funds, 11 have been in the market for more than 25 years. They have delivered consistent double-digit returns over decades, highlighting the benefits of long-term investing. Despite market fluctuations and multiple benchmark changes, these schemes demonstrate strong resilience and growth potential for disciplined investors.
Father had got 46 cents of land from family partition; he gifted the land to wife; wife registers a Will excluding one son from getting a share in this land; son challenges his mothers Will excluding him from this land; Kerala HC rules in mothers favour. Read below to know why the son lost this case.
The Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a daughter-in-law, upholding her title to a rented property via a probated Will. Tenants who stopped paying rent for 25 years and challenged the Will were ordered to pay arrears and vacate the premises due to the landlord's bona fide need for business expansion.
Bank holiday today for Holi: Are banks open or closed today on March 4, 2026 for Holi celebration?
Bank holiday today: Banks across several Indian states are closed today, March 4, 2026, to observe Holi and its regional variations like Dhuleti and Yaosang. Customers are advised to check their respective state's bank holiday list as the festival of colors is celebrated differently across the country.
A car owner won a significant insurance claim after his insurer denied it. The insurer cited a lack of FIR and suspected drunk driving. However, the consumer commission ruled in favor of the owner. The commission ordered the insurer to pay Rs 3.75 lakh plus interest and compensation. This decision highlights key lessons for policyholders regarding claim disputes.
Amidst rising geopolitical tensions, financial planners recommend a core and satellite portfolio for mutual fund investors. This strategy balances stability with growth potential, allocating 70-75% to a core of low-cost index and large-cap funds, and 25-30% to aggressive satellite investments for enhanced long-term returns.
Fed rate cut hopes fade as oil surges after US-Israel strikes on Iran
The spike has heightened concerns that rising energy costs could push up headline inflation, forcing the central bank to maintain a hawkish stance.
Geopolitical shock rattles crypto markets; extended uncertainty clouds Bitcoins recovery path
Following reports of Iranian military action in late February/early March, major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum saw sharp declines, with Bitcoin dropping to around $63,000 before partially rebounding
IRDAI proposes Ind AS adoption for all insurers from April 1, 2026
The move will apply to life, general, health insurers and reinsurers, aiming to enhance transparency, consistency and comparability in financial reporting across the sector
8th Pay Commission update: Key demands that could impact salaries, pensions & promotions
Indian travellers stranded amid escalating global conflicts face uncertainty regarding insurance coverage. While standard policies exclude war-related medical emergencies and flight disruptions, non-war medical issues may still be covered. Prompt notification to insurers and meticulous documentation are crucial for any potential claims, with extensions sometimes possible.
The Latest Home Loan Interest Rates: Feb 27, 2026
The Latest Home Loan Interest Rates: Feb 27, 2026
My company allotted ESOPs worth Rs 6 lakh. Should I hold or sell?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I am 38 years old and work in the private sector. My company recently introduced an employee stock ownership plan and Ive been allotted shares worth Rs.6 lakh. Should I sell the ESOPs and diversify, or hold them to benefit from my companys future growth?
SoftBanks $30 billion OpenAI bet spurs S&P credit outlook cut
The revised outlook follows SoftBanks decision last month to deepen its investment in the ChatGPT maker after already injecting more than $30 billion into OpenAI and funding other artificial intelligence ventures
Quant Mutual Fund increases cash levels to rebuild equity exposure at lower levels
Quant Mutual Fund has increased cash levels to rebuild equity exposure at more attractive valuations, maintaining a large-cap bias. Amid heightened global volatility, the fund house says Sebis new scheme rules enhance flexibility, strengthen downside protection, and support tactical multi-asset strategies across its portfolios.
Flight cancellations are affecting passengers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Manama. Airlines like Air India, IndiGo, Etihad, and Emirates are offering refunds and rescheduling options. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is monitoring the situation. Dubai Airports are resuming limited operations. Passengers are advised to check flight status and apply for refunds promptly.
Indian courts emphasize that simply occupying a property for decades does not grant ownership. Legal title requires formal transfer, inheritance, or proving adverse possession. This legal doctrine demands continuous, hostile, and open occupation for 12 years. The true owner's rights extinguish if they do not act within this period. Tenants cannot claim adverse possession as their occupation is permissive.
How much should you invest monthly to turn Rs 1 lakh into Rs 2 crore in 20 years?
A simple breakdown of the monthly investment required to turn 1 lakh into 2 crore in 20 years.
Has government changed EPF interest rate for FY 2025-26?
The Employees Provident Fund Organisation's Central Board of Trustees has kept the EPF interest rate at 8.25% for the Financial Year 2025-26. New social security schemes are approved. An amnesty scheme for exempted establishments is launched. Simplified audits and liquidation of inoperative accounts are also approved. Interest will be credited between June and September.
What should be your war shock playbook? Which assets to gain and which lose if US-Iran war drags on?
Think your investment app is free? Hidden charges that could be eating into your returns
Free mutual fund and investment apps look attractive with no subscription fees, no transaction costs, and easy access but what looks free often comes with hidden trade-offs. If youre not paying directly, you may be paying indirectly. Read on to no more about hidden costs that could be eating into your retuns.
Cashback is a trap? How to unlock bigger value from premium cards
How should mutual fund investors think about their portfolios amid the US-Israel conflict with Iran?
Rising tensions between the US, Israel and Iran have unsettled markets, prompting mutual fund investors to reassess portfolio strategy. Experts advise staying invested, maintaining asset allocation discipline and considering staggered investments during volatility. History shows geopolitical shocks tend to cause temporary drawdowns rather than long-term damage to Indian equities.
11 equity mutual funds deliver over 50% returns since last Holi. Do you own any?
Equity mutual funds have shown strong performance since Holi 2025. Over 11 funds delivered more than 50% returns. Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund and DSP World Mining Overseas Equity Omni FoF led with over 100% gains. Other funds also saw significant growth, with only a few experiencing negative returns. This period highlights robust market activity for select equity investments.
When insuring senior parents, adding them to a family floater plan can significantly increase premiums due to the eldest member's age. You can read the article to find out the best way to ensure health insurance coverage for your ageing parents, whether it's through a family floater plan or a standalone health insurance policy.
NFO Alert: Arudha SIF launches Arudha Equity Long-Short Fund
Bandhan Mutual Fund introduces the Arudha Equity Long-Short Fund. This new scheme opens for subscription on March 5 and closes on March 18. The fund aims to provide equity-like returns with managed volatility. It combines long and short equity positions with debt and derivative strategies. This approach seeks to capture growth in rising markets and offer resilience during downturns.
How can senior citizen generate Rs 1 lakh monthly income safely in India?
Indian seniors aiming for a Rs 1 lakh monthly retirement income need Rs 2-2.5 crore, accounting for inflation and taxes. Experts suggest a mix of government schemes like SCSS and POMIS, FDs, and debt mutual funds for a 20-year horizon. A 7.5% return is achievable, but inflation protection requires strategic allocation.
Disagreeing with your boss? Heres when it can lead to disciplinary action
Employees can face disciplinary action for public conduct that undermines workplace discipline, even if they disagree with their manager. While professional dissent through proper channels is protected, insubordination, defined as willful disobedience of lawful orders, can lead to termination after a fair inquiry. Complaints to HR about leadership, if made in good faith, are generally protected.
A business class passenger flying from San Francisco to Delhi was awarded Rs 1 lakh by a consumer commission. She faced non-functional lavatories, broken tray tables, and non-working entertainment systems on her Rs 2.49 lakh flight. The commission ruled the airline provided deficient service, causing mental agony and inconvenience, thus ordering compensation and litigation costs.
A daughter's claim to gold ornaments in a joint bank locker was dismissed by the Kerala High Court. The court ruled that a registered Will takes precedence over an 'either or survivor' clause in bank locker agreements. This means assets can be willed to a third party without the joint holder's consent.
Bank holiday for Holi: Are banks open or closed today on March 3, 2026 for Holi celebrations?
Bank holiday today: Banks across multiple states will be closed on March 3, 2026, to observe Holi and related regional festivals like Holika Dahan, Dol Jatra, and Dhulandi. The specific dates for Holi celebrations vary by local customs, impacting bank closures in different regions.
*Homes can be legally auctioned over unpaid taxes, but the law requires a strict process of notices and appeal windows before that.*Even a small tax default can legally trigger attachment and auction, regardless of the property's market value.*If your property is auctioned, legal remedies exist, courts can overturn sales involving procedural violations, fraud, or undervaluation.*Best protection: pay taxes on time, monitor your municipal account, and verify dues before buying or inheriting property.
RBI processes 99.8% of Citizens Charter applications within timeline in February
The central bank handled 22,765 applications during the month, including pending and fresh cases, after adjusting for those referred back for additional information
The reinsurance company said it will cease to cover the marine hull war risks for certain high-risk zones from 1900 hours IST on March 3
98.44% of 2,000 notes returned, says RBI
The total value of 2,000 notes in circulation has declined sharply to 5,551 crore as of February 28, 2026, from 3.56 lakh crore at the time of the announcement.
RBI and BoJ sign Bilateral Swap Arrangement for up to $75 billion
The BSA, which remains unchanged (for up to $75 billion), is effective from February 28, 2026
The Israel-Iran conflict has led to widespread flight cancellations across the Middle East, stranding thousands. Major airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Emirates are offering passengers flexibility, including full refunds or complimentary rescheduling for affected bookings. Qatar Airways is awaiting airspace reopening for flight resumption.
Flight disruptions in the Middle East due to rising tensions are leaving travellers stranded. Travel insurance coverage for these events depends on the cause and policy purchase date. The UAE and Abu Dhabi are assisting affected passengers. Read the article to know the difference between operational and war-related cancellations, and what you should keep in mind.
Bank closures for Holi in 2026 are causing confusion, with holidays varying by state. Some banks will be shut on March 3rd, while others will close on March 4th. A few states will experience a two-day closure for the festival.
Pine Labs to launch stablecoin payments outside India, CEO says
Pine Labs does not plan to launch the product in India or China
HDFC Bank will introduce new locker rental rates from April 1, 2026. Locker rentals may vary amongst branches in the same location. Locker rentals are levied annually and collected in advance. Locker rental costs vary according to the locker's size and branch location.
Gold and silver prices see sharp rise amid Iran-Israel War: Should you book profit or stay invested?
Gold and silver prices experienced a significant surge on the Multi Commodity Exchange of India. This rise is attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel. Experts anticipate continued price increases for these precious metals if the conflict persists. Investors are advised to consider their investment strategies in light of these market movements.
IIFL Finance eyes $750 million fundraise via social dollar bonds
Financier plans debut issuance and overseas loan, with three- to five-year tenor.
Looking for consistency? These 8 small-cap funds have delivered over 5 years
Eight smallcap funds had high performance consistency in the last five years, including Bandhan, Invesco India, Nippon India, HSBC as well as Tata smallcap funds.
Planning Rs 50 lakh in 10 years? Heres whether largecap and balanced advantage SIPs are suitable
Amidst the Iran-Israel War and rising geopolitical tensions, the Indian share market experienced a steep fall on March 2, 2026. Investors sought refuge in gold, a safe-haven asset, leading to a sharp increase in its prices across major jewellery brands. Latest rates for 22k gold show significant fluctuations.
Equity mutual funds gain up to 6% in February, LIC MF Value Fund tops return chart
Equity mutual funds saw a mixed performance in February, with many delivering positive returns up to 6%. LIC MF Value Fund led the pack, followed by several smallcap and midcap funds. However, a significant number of funds experienced negative returns, with some losing over 3%. Investors are advised to base decisions on personal risk appetite and goals.
Not evaded any GST dues; did not promote any kind of betting activity: Fino Payments Bank
NEW DELHI, Mar 2: Fino Payments Bank, whose MD and CEO Rishi Gupta was arrested by the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) on Monday, said the bank did not evade any GST dues and was compliant with all the regulations. Investigation by the DGGI was in relation to the program manager(s) associated with multiple banks and not on the GST compliance of the bank itself, and the bank and its officials have nothing to do with the business/actions of [] The post Not evaded any GST dues; did not promote any kind of betting activity: Fino Payments Bank appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
HDFC Bank will now count UPI cash withdrawals at its ATMs within the monthly free transaction limit starting April 1, 2026. Exceeding this limit will incur a fee of Rs 23 plus applicable taxes per transaction. This change aligns UPI withdrawals with standard ATM cash withdrawal charges.
50% DA merger before 8th CPC? Heres how it could impact central government salaries
Stuck in your job? 7 hidden factors that may be hurting your career prospects
From PPF to NSC: 7 post office schemes that helps you save taxes and boost your returns
AI layoffs are rising: Heres how to pivot, upskill and earn more in 2026
Multiple income sources? Heres how to legally lower your tax outgo
