Personal Finance News
December car discounts shine but pick carefully
Unlike 2024, when high inventory and weaker demand patches forced broad-based discounting, 2025s deal pattern is more surgical.
Who can invest in PPFAS large cap fund?
The fund houses next big play is a differentiated large-cap offering that deviates from the hallmarks of its proven flagship fund.
New Labour Code vs old PF law: Payroll confusion
A visible exception in the latest reform story is that the Employees Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act (EPF Act), 1952Indias principal PF lawis yet to be repealed. This means that the new wage universe governing gratuity, ESI and leave encashment, and the old wage definition continuing for PF both operate simultaneously.
Use FIFO strategy for smart tax saving on equities
Why FIFO and your demat strategy matter: smart choices can preserve big gains.
Why women need money skills, not just spending
Women may be dealing with money in terms of bargaining for the best deal for what they buy. They may be allocating money for various competing expenses, and may be comfortable hoarding money in physical assets like gold. Have we somewhat normalised this association, where womens efficiency is measured merely with respect to her spending decisions?
Not chasing AI blindly:WhiteOak CEO Somaiyaa
WhiteOak Capital Asset Management differentiates itself with strategies designed to keep investors invested for longer. This includes portfolio construction that avoids extreme swings, a fund lineup less prone to high volatility, and a sticky SIP-led franchise, CEO Aashish Somaiyaa tells Sanket Dhanorkar in an interview.
Health insurance complaints surge, doubled in 6 years
Health insurance complaints have doubled in six years, now accounting for 80% of all grievances. Ombudsman calls for healthcare industry regulator and urges insurers to simplify policy terms as post-Covid awareness remains limited despite rising penetration.
Labour codes 2025: Variable pay impact on EPF, gratuity
India's new labour codes require 50% of CTC to be factored into social security calculations, affecting EPF and gratuity contributions. Employers and employees prepare for changes as final implementation rules are expected in coming months.
Choosing your first credit card: A beginner's guide
Choosing your first credit card requires understanding base conversion rates, category bonuses, and redemption values. Learn how reward points work, which cards suit different spending patterns and how to maximize value through accelerated rewards and partner ecosystems. Compare milestone benefits, annual fees, and card recommendations for beginners.
Indians investing actively but lack financial preparedness
Indian corporate employees are investing more actively in mutual funds and equities, but many lack adequate financial knowledge and emergency preparedness, shows a Finsafe India study.
LATAM stocks outperform India, US in 2025
Currency fluctuations impact the returns on foreign investments. To capture the real value from an Indian investors standpoint, these returns are adjusted to reflect their equivalent in Indian rupees. The key takeaway: no market dominates, diversify for security. By Sameer Bhardwaj.
What is credit score and why it matters
A credit score determines your loan eligibility and interest rates. Learn what affects your credit score, why lenders check it, and how to improve it for better loan terms from banks and NBFCs in India. In the 80th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains why this score is important for you.
Fino to sell its corporate BC business, aspires to become universal bank eventually: CEO
Fino Payments Bank will re-brand itself as Fino SFB post conversion and double its branch network from 120 currently, over the next 2-3 years, and hire 500-600 employees in the initial years of becoming a SFB.
Loan Approvals: MNRE shares status of solar PV manufacturing chain with FinMin, NBFCs
This will help financial institutions adopt a calibrated and well-informed approach while evaluating proposals
Bajaj Finserv sees consolidated PAT rising 1822% CAGR to 21,00024,000 cr by FY2030
Bajaj Finance plans to enter wealth management business.
Equity mutual funds deliver up to 6% returns last week; global funds lead. Check top 5 gainers
Digitally unified insurance systems can transform Indias healthcare: GIM-WHO study
As India continues to expand subsidised health insurance schemes, the study highlights why unification of data and processes across different stakeholders is essential for improving service delivery
5 mutual fund NFOs open for subscription this week. Check dates and key details
I am 50 and retired with nearly 5 crore in savings. Is this corpus enough for the rest of my life?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I am 50 and retired, with no dependants. I have a mutual fund and equities portfolio worth around Rs 4.25 crore, and a PPF balance of about Rs 40 lakh. Is this corpus sufficient to sustain me for the rest of my life?
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund is launching its JioBlackRock Arbitrage Fund on December 9, offering a low-risk option for short-term money. The fund will primarily invest in arbitrage opportunities across cash and derivatives markets, with a portion in debt and money market instruments. Suitable for investors with a 312 month horizon, it aims to generate income while leveraging market price gaps.
LIC will become completely digital in next two months: DFS Secretary Nagaraju
Stating that the digital transformation would be similar to what State Bank of India had undergone in terms of various processes, the secretary hinted at a comprehensive set of reforms in insurance whichwill be announced soon
Investor flows are diverging, says Sanjay Shah of Prudent Corporate. While SIPs continue to channel steady money into mid- and smallcaps, fresh allocations are moving toward hybrid, multi-asset, and large-and-midcap funds. New AMCs, NFOs, and SEBI incentives are driving added traction.
DigiLocker fraud on Google Play Store: How scammers are stealing money & how you can avoid it
Indian users, beware! Theres a rise in fraudulent DigiLocker applications designed to snatch away your confidential data. These scammers are thriving by creating lookalike apps, making it imperative to install only the legitimate version from the National e-Governance Division. Dont forget to check the developers information and be cautious with apps that resemble the official one.
These 5 equity mutual funds lose over 10% in 2025. Do you own any?
Five equity mutual funds have fallen more than 10% in 2025, led by steep declines in Samco and small-cap schemes. Overall, 69 funds delivered negative returns, with most losses ranging from marginal dips to high single digits.
FD rate up to 8% for general citizens investing for five year; Know full list of banks
General citizens can still find fixed deposits offering up to 8% interest for a five-year term. Suryoday Small Finance Bank and Jana Small Finance Bank are among those providing this attractive rate. Ujjivan Small Finance Bank offers 7.2%. Investors should note TDS rules and the option to submit Form 15G to avoid deductions.
Top 5 largecap mutual funds offer over 20% annualised return in 3 years. Check details
Large cap mutual funds have delivered up to 27.1% annualised returns over three years, led by BHARAT 22 ETF. Several Sensex Next 50 ETFs also performed strongly, while five major schemes lagged.
BoB, Bank of India cut repo-linked interest rate after RBIs policy rate cut, others to follow suit
With cheaper funding, banks can lower lending rates such as MCLR and base rates, making home, auto, and business loans more affordable
Starting your first SIP? Heres an expert guide to choosing the right mutual fund
Starting an SIP becomes easy with clarity on goals, time horizon and risk appetite. Expert guidance helps beginners avoid mis-selling, choose the right fund, and build confidence for a smooth long-term investing journey.
Starting November 21, 2025, a revised Labour Code brings exciting tax-saving opportunities. With wages comprising 50% of the Cost to Company (CTC), employees have a chance to maximize their savings. For instance, with a CTC of Rs 15 lakh, individuals can now enjoy an additional Rs 75,000 in tax relief.
Allegations of adultery cant deny a wife her family pension, rules Bombay HC
In a significant verdict, the Bombay High Court has upheld the rights of a widow by granting her the family pension she deserves. Despite her late husband's unproven accusations of infidelity, the court ruled that such allegations cannot bar a spouse from receiving pension benefits.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on December 6, 2025?
Saturday bank holiday: Many banking services have moved online, but several transactions still require a physical visit to the branch due to verification, compliance, or documentation requirements.
PhonePe shuts Pincodes B2C arm, pivots to B2B solutions
It moved travel and transited to the main PhonePe app
RBIs repo cut to aid consumption, investment and funding cost, bankers say
1 lakh crore OMO purchases along with the 3-year USD/INR buy-sell swap will support liquidity and monetary transmission
RBI grants in-principle approval to Fino Payments Bank for conversion to a small finance bank
With Finos exit, there are only few operational and large scale payments bank in the country. These include Airtel Payments Bank, Jio Payments Bank and India Post Payments Bank
Focus now on policy rate cut transmission: RBI Governor
Real interest rates remain high even as nominal rates fall
MPC cuts repo rate by 25 bps to a 3-year low
Announces lliquidity enhancement measures; ups FY26 GDP projection by 50 bps, cuts inflation projection by 60 bps
ICICI Lombard, Vastu Housing Finance join hands for insurance distribution
The tie-up will provide Vastus customer base access to two main insurance products
The Reserve Bank of India's repo rate reduction brings welcome news for home loan borrowers. Interest rates on loans linked to the repo rate are expected to decrease soon. Borrowers can anticipate significant savings on interest payments and potentially a shorter loan tenure. This move offers financial relief and flexibility for homeowners across India.
Vrutti partners with HSBC India to launch FPO Shakti financing facility
India has more than 44,000 registered FPOs, but fewer than one-third can secure formal credit, FPO Shakti addresses this challenge
Mandatory Hallmarking Unique Identification (HUID) for silver jewellery is now in effect, ensuring purity and curbing unfair practices. Over 17 lakh silver pieces have been hallmarked since its September launch. This six-digit code offers digital traceability, mirroring the gold hallmarking system. Consumers can verify authenticity via the BIS CARE mobile app, checking purity, jewellery type, and jeweller details.
Top 10 best-performing mutual funds for December 2025
ETMutualFunds has shortlisted the top 10 equity funds for December 2025 using performance consistency, risk metrics and rolling returnsnot short-term trends.
India talking to 8 more nations for UPI acceptability: Nagaraju
Unified Payment Interface (UPI) is currently accepted in eight countries -- Bhutan, Singapore, , Mauritius, Nepal, UAE, Sri Lanka and France
Zaggle to acquire Rio.Money; to invest 75 crore
Zaggle will invest up to 75 crore in Rio.Money, in one or more tranches, to support product enhancement, technology advancement, go-to-market initiatives and expansion of consumer payment offerings
RBI Cuts Repo Rate to 5.25%: Here's how you can save Rs 45,000/year on a Rs 50 lakh loan
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday reduced the key benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25 per cent, the first rate cut in six months. The central bank also retained a neutral stance, leaving room for potential further cuts.
Why do retail investors get trapped in sectoral and thematic funds?
Huge inflows over the last couple of years have made this the largest category in the equity mutual fund space, and it is time investors understood the risks associated with these funds, as reported by ETBureau.
NFO Alert : JioBlackRock Mutual Fund to launch arbitrage fund next week. Check dates, other details
JioBlackRock is launching its low-risk Arbitrage Fund on 911 December, aiming to generate stable returns through equity arbitrage and limited debt investments, targeting short-term investors seeking steady income.
RBI MPC Policy: Mutual fund managers decode 25 basis point rate cut for investors
The RBIs MPC announced a 25 bps repo rate cut to 5.25% while maintaining a neutral stance, prompting mutual fund managers to highlight opportunities in dynamic bond, short-duration, and corporate bond funds. Liquidity infusion through OMOs and FX swaps is expected to soften yields and support investor portfolios.
Indigo flight cancellation news: IndiGo is facing widespread flight cancellations and delays, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The airline offers passengers options for refunds or rebooking on alternative flights.
ED attaches 1,120-cr assets linked to Reliance Anil Ambani Group in YES Bank 'fraud case'
Separately, ED is probing a CBI FIR filed against RCOM, Anil Ambani and associates regarding loans worth 40,185 crore taken between 2010 and 2012
In a landmark decision on November 19, 2025, the ITAT Hyderabad ruled that severance packages is to be classified as taxable income under profits in lieu of salary for all terminated employees. The tribunal made it clear that unless there's a specific exemption outlined in Section 10, these severance payments will incur income tax obligations.
Taxpayers can pay advance tax payments for specific incomes in FY 2025-26 after the income has happened. Capital gains, lottery winnings, and certain business income are eligible. Senior citizens without business income are exempt. Advance tax is mandatory if net tax liability exceeds Rs 10,000 after TDS. Payment deadlines are June 15, September 15, December 15, and March 15.
Is your investment portfolio too concentrated? Heres how to fix it
8 ways employees will benefit from the implementation of new Labour Codes
Labour Reforms were the need of the hour to ensure balanced and sustained growth in the country and above all, to guarantee dignity, security and fair treatment for every worker. The new Codes place employees at the centre of the labour framework, combining simplification with a decisive expansion of rights and protections.
ITR tax refund stuck? These 7 common errors could be the reason and how you can fix them
Tax refund delays can often stem from mistakes made by taxpayers. Make sure to double-check your Income Tax Return (ITR) within a month. If you receive any notifications regarding defective returns or proposed changes, respond quickly. Dont forget to confirm that your bank account is set up for refund deposits. Clear any outstanding demands prior to the refund process.
RBI announces liquidity enhancement measures; to conduct OMO purchase and USD/INR buy-sell swap
The RBI has announced that it will conduct OMO purchase auctions of G-Secs for 1 lakh crore in two tranches of 50,000 crore each to be held on December 11, 2025, and December 18, 2025
Salary not paid? Heres how to send a legal notice that works
The Reserve Bank of India is launching a nationwide customer grievance redressal campaign. This initiative begins on January 1, 2026, and will run for two months. The campaign aims to resolve all complaints pending with the RBI Ombudsman for over a month. Regulated entities are instructed to prioritize customer service.
India's Manhattan? 40% of Indias ultra-luxury home sales now come from this Mumbai neighbourhood
Gold funds vs ETFs : Which investment makes more sense in current market volatility?
Gold prices have seen a significant surge, prompting investors to consider Gold ETFs and Gold Funds. Experts suggest SIPs for volatile markets, with ETFs offering cost-efficiency and liquidity, while mutual funds provide convenience for long-term investors. Multi-asset funds are also recommended for better risk-reward.
The Repo Rate cut by 25 bps to 5.25%
The RBI also announced liquidity enhancement measures including, conducting an open market operation (OMO) purchase of Government Securities for 1 lakh crore this month
India may seek bids for $7 billion IDBI Bank stake this month
The bank, once burdened by heavy bad loans, has emerged from a major cleanup, and returned to profitability in recent years after capital support and aggressive recoveries helped it cut non-performing assets sharply
Best small cap mutual funds to invest in December 2025
Small cap mutual funds delivered over 26.38% returns in 2024. Investors are showing renewed interest in October 2025. Despite market concerns, experts advise staggered investments in these schemes for long-term wealth. These funds invest in very small companies, offering high return potential but also significant risk and volatility. Careful selection of fund managers is crucial for success.
RBI MPC Meeting 2025 Live Updates: Will RBI cut interest rates?
RBI MPC 2025, RBI Monetary Policy Meeting Outcomes, RBI MPC Meeting December 2025 News & Live Updates: Here are the major live updates related to the latest bi-monthly RBI Monetary Policy Committee meeting.
After Sebi, Amfi likely to put equity tag on Reits in Jan rejig
Mutual fund investors should watch for changes in January 2026. AMFI may reclassify REITs like KRT and Embassy into mid-cap equity. Mindspace, Nexus, and Brookfield could join small-cap equity. This follows SEBI's move to boost mutual fund participation in REITs. Fund managers will need to adjust portfolios accordingly. The official list arrives in early January.
While banks may define their own criteria for identifying an ultra-large borrower, they shall also consider the overall indebtedness of such entities to the banking system, as per RBI directions
Revised BSBD A/c norms: Provision of digital banking and no fee on ATM card
This may prompt conversion of some SB A/Cs into BSBD A/Cs
RBI revises prudential norms for foreign bank branches, LEF and intragroup exposure rules
Banks must now strengthen concentration-risk policies for single counterparties, interconnected borrowers and sectoral exposures, with specific provisions to identify ultra-large borrowers.
Rupee recovers to close at 89.97 against the US dollar
Factors such as continued FPI outflows from the equity markets, importer demand, lack of visibility on a trade deal with the US, widening trade deficit, and restrained RBI intervention continue to affect the Indian currency
Citizens can now access their Passport Verification Records online through DigiLocker. This initiative by MeitY and MEA reduces reliance on physical documents. PVRs will be available in the 'Issued Documents' section after verification. This allows for secure, tamper-proof digital access and sharing. The DigiLocker platform enhances convenience and accessibility for official verification documents.
IFFCO-TOKIO GIC ties up with cooperatives for micro insurance
Drawing inspiration from IRDAI initiatives, IFFCO-TOKIO GIC now targets under-covered communities while continuing to offer a range of retail and corporate insurance products, including motor, health, travel, home, and personal accident policies.
ITR Refund Status: How much time does it take to get credited, and what's the reason for the delay?
Many taxpayers are still waiting for their AY 202526 income tax refunds, even as others have already received theirs after filing and verifying their returns. Read on to find out why it is getting delayed and how to check your ITR refund status.
Invesco Mutual Fund resume subscription in its 3 international funds
Invesco Mutual Fund has resumed subscriptions in three overseas fund of funds from December 5, allowing lumpsum, SIP and STP investments within available headroom, while retaining the option to suspend inflows again if overseas limits near February 2022 thresholds.
LIC has launched two new insurance plans, Protection Plus and Bima Kavach. Protection Plus offers life cover with savings and investment options. Bima Kavach provides pure risk protection with guaranteed death benefits. Both plans cater to diverse policyholder needs, ensuring financial security and flexibility for the future.
Are you aiming to build Rs 3 crore in 20 years? Save over Rs 30,000 monthly
Top 5 smallcap mutual funds deliver up to 30% annualized return in 3 years
Top small cap mutual funds delivered up to 30% annualised returns over three years, led by Bandhan Small Cap Fund. Several others posted strong gains, while five laggard schemes recorded losses between 13% and 16% over the same period.
After enduring a protracted 22-year legal ordeal, the Calcutta High Court has brought a measure of justice to a husbands family by dismissing a case filed under Section 498A. The court found the claims of cruelty insufficiently detailed, overturning a 2003 trial conviction.
RBI set to announce policy decision as markets eye potential rate cut
Market participants are closely watching whether the RBI will cut the repo rate from its current 6.5%, amid easing inflation and expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut next week
I am a US citizen. How can I transfer my mothers property and FDs in India to myself?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: How can the wealth, including fixed deposits and residential property, of an Indian mother be transferred to her daughter, who is a US citizen and does not have either the PAN or Aadhaar card.
With the rupee touching 90 against the dollar, concerns over the soaring cost of overseas education have resurfaced. Edelweiss MF CEO Radhika Gupta says long-term financial planning should factor in 24% annual currency depreciation, as future rupee movements remain unpredictable.
8th Pay Commission Update: Salary hike, Pension revision & DA merger What govt really said
8th Pay Commission:The 8th Pay Commission is now officially in action, reviewing pay, allowances, and pensions for central employees and pensioners. The government has clarified key points, including that pensions will be revised, but there is no plan to merge Dearness Allowance (DA) with basic pay. Heres what employees need to know.
Travellers can get a same-day forex card and currency note delivery, even on weekends, along with a Pay-on-Delivery option for currency notes. This move aims to simplify and expedite forex purchases for travellers, addressing the common need for quick access to foreign currency, especially close to travel dates.
New Labour Law 2025: Salary calculator for CTC 7L, 10L & 15L see your revised pay structure
The New Labour Law notified on November 21, 2025, bring major changes to how your salary is calculated. Your gross salary stays the same, but how it's divided between components will change for many employees. Read on to find out your revised salary structure.
Bitcoin miners rob Malaysia of electricity worth $1 bn; govt intensifies hunt
Malaysia recorded about 14,000 illicit mining sites over the past five years
Your 8-step blueprint to financial freedom in todays India
Implement wage settlement without delay, demand Nabard employees
Tell Nabard management and the Department of Financial Services that its patience is wearing thin
New labour code 2025: Bonus and leave encashment calculator if bonus is 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% of CTC
A new Labour Code 2025 is set to redefine wages. Employers must now calculate 50% of total CTC for gratuity, pension, and social security. This change may affect bonus and leave encashment components. Experts suggest employers might adjust salary structures to manage increased costs. The impact will vary based on individual salary compositions.
The Karnataka government has released its official holiday list for 2026, detailing 20 general holidays for festivals and national events alongside weekends. Government employees can also avail up to two restricted holidays with prior approval. The list includes major religious and cultural observances, with flexibility for Muslim festivals based on moon sighting.
From +11% to 11%: Same mutual fund category leads Novembers winners and losers
Franklin India Mid Cap Fund, the oldest in its category, has transformed a Rs 1,000 monthly SIP into Rs 2.36 crore over 32 years, achieving a 20.20% XIRR. The fund delivered positive returns in nine of the last ten calendar years, showcasing its resilience and wealth creation potential for long-term investors.

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