The Economic Times

Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week, Preeti Kulkarni explains how the MWP Act can ensure greater protection for your family.

A recent study reveals that India's $900-billion asset management sector lacks climate scenario analysis disclosures. Twelve mutual funds, representing over 80% of assets, scored zero in stress testing. This gap contrasts with findings from Asian peers who share some level of climate analysis. Rising climate risks in India could threaten up to $250 billion in annual output by 2030.

Welcome to TrendMap, your quick guide to investment performance. This edition tracks 10 years of global equity returns. 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 dominatesdiversification matters. By Sameer Bhardwa

A young Messi relied on explosive speed and amazing dribbling to beat defenders. As he grew older, he used experience, positioning and passing to influence matches. He remained exceptional because he adapted. Investors must adopt a similar transition.

Bala is helping decorate for Diwali when he comes across his old football boots, a stack of comics hes outgrown and a torch that still works. His mother asks what he plans to do with them. Nothing, theyre taking up space, he says. Then he remembers Aisha next door, whos been asking her parents for a torch for weeks. Bala looks at the pile differently now.

What should the small investor do about this AI revolution in the making? The simple answer is nothing. No one can tell whether AI is a boon, a disaster, or a bubble. Its probably all of these, but its impossible to tell when, or in what order. The temptation to invest on the news is always there, but at this point, our job is to ignore the machine that will keep producing these stories

This Diwali, investment experts advise a strategic approach focused on asset allocation rather than luring high-growth stocks. Sectors like banking, financial services, and premium goods present promising opportunities. While gold should only occupy a small fraction of a diversified portfolio for risk management, short-duration debt funds gain favour as interest rates shift. Maintaining discipline and patience is essential for long-term investment success.

Gold prices have experienced a notable drop, creating favorable opportunities for those looking to buy during the festive and wedding seasons. Experts suggest that gold demand may rise in the near future. Nevertheless, market volatility driven by US Federal Reserve rate changes should prompt caution among investors. It is essential for buyers to evaluate their financial objectives and consult with financial advisors regarding suitable gold investment strategies.

As the festive season of Diwali nears, its wise for individuals to take a fresh look at their investment portfolios. This reflection can shed light on stagnant investments and empower improved financial planning. Financial experts advocate for a disciplined approach to asset distribution and routine portfolio assessments. Some investors may still cling to non-performing mutual funds and insurance that limit their potential growth.

An RBI officer, a Bengaluru retailer, a safari lodge owner and a 24-year-old money coach tell us how giving a little, steadily, lights someone elses life, long after Diwali.

Indian households are re-evaluating their asset allocations as gold holdings rise and equity investments remain stable. Recent data reveals a significant increase in household wealth, particularly in gold and real estate. Households are moving from traditional savings to market investments, notably through systematic investment plans. Meanwhile, financial behaviors are changing, with more monthly contributions being made to equities.

Stock market investors are growing wary as prices continue to drop amid broader economic issues. Nevertheless, mutual fund managers are optimistic, identifying many investment opportunities during this downturn. The article identifies six stocks that have seen a rise in mutual fund investments, showcasing their resilience and growth potential during tough times. This analysis offers investors valuable insights to enhance their future strategies.

Shah Rukh Khan has released the first song from his upcoming movie King, celebrating his birthday. The song, featuring Deepika Padukone, is titled Tu Mil Jaaye and includes vocals by Arijit Singh and Ed Sheeran. Directed by Siddharth Anand, King is set to release in cinemas on December 24, 2026. Read on!

India's GST collections in October reached 2.31 lakh crore, reflecting a 22.9% year-on-year increase. Strong consumption trends are indicated by rising passenger car sales and record digital payments. Power consumption also surged nearly 22% compared to last year, further emphasizing economic strength. Despite a high inflation rate of 5.5%, demand has remained robust, supporting growth forecasts. Analysts suggest this growth aligns with leading indicators of a consumption-driven economy.

People across India are protesting peacefully, contrasting with violent agitations seen in other countries. The 'one nation, multiple elections' framework allows diverse political benefits to be shared among parties. This electoral model keeps governments accountable and responsive to public needs. Elections help to channel frustrations and enable citizens to express their concerns. As a result, the political landscape remains dynamic and participatory, fostering a sense of empowerment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet the new leadership of Niti Aayog on November 5. This meeting aims to establish budget priorities amidst global uncertainty and economic growth challenges. The focus will be on enhancing domestic manufacturing and creating employment opportunities. Experts from various sectors will provide insights related to India's development objectives.

CII has called for extending the GST Council's approach to decriminalise offences in various sectors. This move aims to enhance ease of doing business and attract investments in land, labour, and construction. The organisation emphasizes the importance of simplifying regulatory processes across different government tiers.

Kylian Mbapp moved past a difficult week by scoring a crucial penalty for Real Madrid. He helped his team win 3-0 against Racing Santander on Sunday. Prior to this match, he narrowly missed winning the Ballon d'Or to Harry Kane. Following the award announcement, he issued an apology for a social media video. The video contained a joke about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, which stirred controversy.

Harry Kane had a disappointing game for Bayern Munich against Dortmund despite the pre-game celebrations. He missed a penalty during the match, hitting the crossbar instead of scoring. Kane did manage to assist one goal and was active throughout the game. This draw kept both teams level on points at the top of the Bundesliga. Despite the outcome, Kane remains a key player for his team.

State-run general insurers must submit board-approved plans to the government for reducing unprofitable business segments. The government aims to evaluate the performance of these companies based on a time-bound roadmap for organic solvency. Policies regarding better pricing, oversight, and structured reinsurance for risky insurance areas are also being emphasized.

Fears of World War III are growing amid rising tensions between the US and Iran, with President Donald Trump abruptly cancelling his scheduled campaign events over the weekend. The developments have raised questions about whether the conflict could escalate and whether American civilians could eventually be called up for military service.

Solar module manufacturers in India are raising concerns about the local availability of cells for production. They have requested an extension of the sourcing deadline beyond January 2024 to address these issues. The Renewable Energy Manufacturers Association has highlighted a significant gap between module production capacity and cell supply. Current regulations mandate that solar cells must come from approved local manufacturers for projects.

Hina Khan revealed recently that she married her partner, Rocky Jaiswal, with no fanfare, and the ceremony took less than 15 minutes, and the marriage was a now-and-never situation, as she was battling advanced breast cancer at the time.

Employees from big organisations usually flaunt their perks in viral videos. However, one video that has gone viral shows a Microsoft employee at his desk, working.

Three South Korean automotive component manufacturers have committed to invest 1,614 crore in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. Hwashin, Seoyon, and Iwamet have signed MoUs with the state government for setting up facilities. The investments follow Andhra Pradesh's proactive efforts to attract global manufacturing investments. These projects are expected to create 1,418 jobs, enhancing the region's automotive manufacturing capabilities.

With ongoing investments in ecommerce, Reliance Retail expects better Ebitda margins. The company is enhancing dark stores to ensure quicker delivery times and adapting retail spaces to cater to online shoppers. Although recent reports indicate a decrease in net profit, digital commerce still surged by 42%. Jeyandran Venugopal, the chief executive, expresses assurance in maximizing current assets for growth while steering clear of extravagant competitor expenditures.

Julie Mayes, a former community support worker at The Carrbridge Centre in Wirral, Merseyside, has won 2,160.81 in compensation after an employment tribunal ruled that she was unfairly dismissed. She had raised concerns about chief executive Matthew Gibbs' alleged aggressive behaviour towards employees and volunteers. During one confrontation, Gibbs reportedly screamed I am the CEO in her face after she tried to intervene in an argument with volunteers.

Mumbai: Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world's largest brewer, has set aside $30 million against outstanding payments from the Telangana government, highlighting the financial risks of operating in India's state-controlled alcohol market, where delayed payments and restrictions on price increases are squeezing brewers.The disclosure comes amid wider industry concerns over nearly $400 million Telangana owes to alcohol companies in dues. Industry groups have accused the state of breaching accounting ru

The parliamentary panel on Communications and IT will examine the implementation of laws governing print, television and digital media as part of its 2026-27 review of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. Its agenda also covers OTT platforms, Prasar Bharati, film regulation and television ratings, building on earlier calls for a common media regulatory framework.

The regulator had extended the deadline earlier by a week after receiving more than 650 responses to its September 23 consultation paper, which proposes tighter commission limits, changes to expense-of-management rules and a new distribution architecture. The industry is now awaiting the draft guidelines followed by the final framework.

Over the past four quarters, India's medicine sales have increased significantly due to rising demand in chronic care segments. The growth rate reached 12% year-on-year in the September quarter, showing a positive trend in the industry. Larger pharmaceutical companies have benefited from the shutdown of many non-compliant smaller units. Budgets were also boosted by a reduction in GST on medicines.

Faith manages every stage of a project, from process planning and mechanical design through robot programming, system integration and on-site commissioning. It has revenues of around Rs 300 crore. Its clients include Honda, Mahindra & Mahindra and Stellantis. The company's founding team led by Nilesh Pandhare and six of his colleagues previously worked at Italian firm Comau, which was part of Stellantis.

Stefan Bollinger highlights the potential risk of an AI bubble affecting global markets significantly. He notes that India's equity valuation correction is healthy, maintaining the country's growth story. Investors are increasingly diversifying their portfolios with a focus on hedge funds and private equity. The Fed's decision on rates remains uncertain, though high inflation complicates matters. Rising yields in Japan are likely to attract domestic investors back to their markets.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has mandated the use of two pilots for Char Dham helicopter services. This requirement comes after a recent helicopter crash in Uttarakhand resulted in multiple fatalities. Operators are protesting this new rule, citing increased costs and potential service suspensions. Additionally, co-pilots must now be qualified for hilly terrain operations. Operators are required to secure clearance from the control room before every flight.

Trials for the Digi Yatra facility have commenced at seven airports across India for international passengers. This service is available on a trial basis for Indian nationals with e-passports. It will initially operate on select international flights by Air India and IndiGo. Digi Yatra utilizes facial recognition technology to enable seamless movement at airport checkpoints. A wider rollout of this facility is anticipated in the year 2027.

Ajay Devgn returns as Vijay Salgaonkar in Drishyam 3, the latest instalment of the popular crime thriller franchise. After its theatrical release, the film has sparked curiosity among viewers waiting to discover how the story unfolds and when they can watch it from home. With new challenges facing Vijay and the investigation taking another turn, here's what to know about the film's expected digital release, cast and story.

IDFC First Bank and small finance banks such as AU, Jana and Suryoday were among the biggest users of the scheme to reduce credit risk. They have set aside the guarantee fee for the current fiscal year, expecting the government to reopen the window soon, people aware of the matter said.

Mumbai: Banks are reporting 10-50% improvements across productivity, turnaround time and operating costs from artificial intelligence-led initiatives, with some lenders handling up to 30% more servicing volumes without adding manpower as AI moves deeper into corporate banking, collections and transaction processing.The gains vary across operations: Axis Bank has recorded productivity improvements of more than 10% in selected customer journeys, Kotak Mahindra Bank can handle 20-30% more corporate

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Southern Bullet Train Corridor which will connect Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Amaravati, and Chennai. This high-speed rail project aims to reduce travel time significantly between these economic hubs. The Bengaluru-Chennai journey will take just 73 minutes, while Bengaluru-Hyderabad will take about two hours and 10 minutes.

Helicopter operators in Uttarakhand have decided to suspend their Char Dham charter operations from November 2. This action follows a letter sent to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation expressing their concerns. The operators oppose the new regulation that requires all helicopters to have two crew members on board. They argue that the mandate will significantly impact their financial viability and operational efficiency.

The world of techno music mourns the loss of Juan Atkins, who passed away at age 64. A co-founder of the Belleville Three, he played an instrumental role in shaping the electronic music landscape, inspiring a multitude of artists worldwide. He died unexpectedly in Mexico City prior to a scheduled show, and details surrounding his death remain unclear.

Diesel sales experienced an 11.7% year-on-year increase in October due to heightened economic activity. Petrol sales, on the other hand, increased by only 3.1% during the same month. LPG sales continued to decline significantly, dropping 12.1% year-on-year as supplies tightened. Aviation turbine fuel sales decreased by 1.3%, reflecting persistent sluggishness in the aviation sector. Overall, the fuel market showed mixed trends amid changing consumption patterns in India.

Renowned director Michael Mann was reportedly hospitalised following an accidental firearm discharge while practicing at a Los Angeles gun range. The incident happened during a training session, resulting in a minor injury. Fortunately, his representative announced that Mann is in stable condition. Known for iconic films like Heat and Collateral, he is currently working on a highly anticipated sequel to Heat.

Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, Kentucky, was once a tuberculosis hospital where an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people died. Now considered one of America's most haunted places, the former hospital attracts paranormal enthusiasts with stories of unexplained activity. Visitors leave toys and rubber balls on the third floor for a rumoured child ghost called Timmy, while Room 502 is associated with disturbing stories about a nurse's alleged death.