SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 40    C

Investment News

Livemint

Investment / Livemint

Retirement planning: Why the rule of 1% upgrade works better than a 1% increase in SIP amount

The rule of 1% upgrade encourages investors to increase the share of their income invested by one percentage point every year. A small annual increase in the share of income invested can significantly boost long-term retirement savings.

19 Jul 2026 11:05 am
EPF Scheme 2026: Why you must keep 25% of your PF balance before retirement

The new EPF Scheme introduces a 25% minimum balance requirement for partial withdrawals. Here's what the rule means, how eligible member balance is calculated, and when you can withdraw your full PF corpus.

19 Jul 2026 10:49 am
25,000 monthly SIP at 12%: Check estimated corpus after 10, 20 and 30 years and see how compounding builds 8.74 crore

A 25,000 monthly SIP earning an assumed 12% annual return can grow to 8.74 crore in 30 years. Check how compounding, understanding of core principles, disciplined investing and staying invested help create long-term wealth for retirement, children's education and financial independence.

19 Jul 2026 9:48 am
Sold house for 1.10 crore, tax computed on 1.96 crore? ITAT explains when Section 54 relief is still available

The Pune ITAT has ruled that capital gains computed using the higher stamp duty value under Section 50C do not automatically deny Section 54 exemption. The tax benefit, however, is available only if the taxpayer satisfies all conditions for claiming the exemption.

19 Jul 2026 9:39 am
Health insurance: 63% policyholders unable to switch from their plan Here's why and key things to keep in mind

An analysis by CoverSure showed that besides under-penetration of health insurance, another growing problem for many policyholders is that coverage exists but as many as 63% are unable to switch plans.

19 Jul 2026 9:33 am
Monsoon Home Insurance: Focus on fine print, cheap premiums could cost you dearly

There are many exclusions in your home insurance policy, and the policyholder must carefully review them to avoid being caught off guard at the worst possible moment.

19 Jul 2026 9:04 am
Salary slip shows TDS deducted, but Form 26AS doesn't? Here's how the ITAT ruling protected the taxpayer

An ITAT ruling reinforces that salaried employees cannot be asked to pay tax twice if their employer deducts TDS but fails to deposit it. The decision strengthens taxpayer protection and serves as a timely reminder to verify TDS records before filing income tax returns.

19 Jul 2026 8:44 am
Atal Pension Yojana: How to open account, eligibility criteria, pension scheme payout Check top FAQs answered here

Atal Pension Yojana: Today we answer the most frequently asked questions about eligibility criteria, requirements, documents needed, payout amount and other top FAQs about the government-run pension scheme

19 Jul 2026 7:59 am
A viral SIP myth is fooling investors. Here's why

A viral post claims SIPs delivered just 6.7% over two decades. But the calculation is flawedand the flat market it cites is precisely when SIPs quietly do their best work.

19 Jul 2026 7:00 am
Bank holidays this week: SBI, HDFC, ICICI, PNB to remain closed for upto 3 days RBI calendar here

Bank holidays this week: Banks in India will be closed for upto three days this week, but digital platforms like UPI and banking apps will remain operational. Customers should note that in-branch services are suspended on Sundays and specific regional holidays. 

19 Jul 2026 6:54 am
NPS onboarding redesign, AI-powered pension advisory platform, NPS SwasthyaPFRDA Chair encourages responsible AI use

PFRDA Chairman S Ramann outlined an AI roadmap to redesign the National Pension Scheme's onboarding process. He also encouraged responsible AI use for a pension advisory platform powered by the technology.

18 Jul 2026 10:34 pm
Foreign asset details for 2022-24 now available under AIS: What to do if you missed disclosing them in previous ITRs?

Taxpayers can now view their foreign assets and income via the AIS on the income tax e-filing portal. The AIS currently includes data for 2022-2024, with 2025 data expected by late 2026. Here's what to do if you missed disclosing them in previous ITRs.

18 Jul 2026 10:33 pm
ITR filing 2026: FD interest is taxable here's how to report it correctly

FD interest income is fully taxable but tax implications may vary based on the chosen tax regime and taxpayer age. Some deductions may also be available, based on your age and income profile. Here's all you need to know.

18 Jul 2026 9:28 pm
Income-tax returns: Check penalty for missing deadline for filing ITR Key things to know

ITR: Taxpayers must file their income-tax returns for FY26 / AY27 by 31 August this year, extended from 30 June. Here's how much penalty you can be charged and deadline for delayed ITR filing during the tax year.

18 Jul 2026 9:27 pm
Berkshire has 30% of its portfolio in Apple, Alphabet: Expert says not appropriate strategy for retail investors but

Berkshire Hathaway now allocates nearly 30% of its $351 billion portfolio to Apple and Alphabet, reflecting a shift in Warren Buffett's investment strategy. 

18 Jul 2026 9:10 pm
EPFO: Here's how to link your Aadhaar with UAN using the Umang app Stepwise guide

EPFO: Aadhaar linking is mandatory for several EPF services. Today, we check how EPF subscribers can link Aadhaar with their Universal Account Number (UAN) using the government's Umang mobile app.

18 Jul 2026 8:22 pm
Claiming tax relief on salary arrears, advance pay or gratuity? Here's why Form 10e must be filed before ITR

Salary arrears and lump-sum payments can increase tax liability. Taxpayers must file Form 10E before their ITR to claim relief under Section 89 of the Income-tax Act. Here's what you need to know.

18 Jul 2026 8:11 pm
8th pay commission: Basic pay, allowances components of salary structure in focus; Here's why

Around 50 lakh central government employees and about 65 lakh retired central government pensioners, including defence personnel and retirees, will benefit from the recommendations across 18 employee levels.

18 Jul 2026 6:30 pm
Dearness Allowance: From DA hikes to pay arrears and other key announcements Check latest updates, FAQ answers here

About 1 crore beneficiaries close to 50 lakh central government employees and nearly 65 lakh retired central government pensioners, including defence personnel and retirees will benefit from an increase in DA and DR.

18 Jul 2026 5:05 pm
ITR filing 2026: If your tax liability is nil after Section 87A rebate, should you still file a return?

Even with a zero tax liability due to the Section 87A rebate, filing an income tax return (ITR) may be necessary. Your obligation to file depends on your total income and the tax regime you choose.

18 Jul 2026 5:00 pm
Sold a property in FY 2025-26? Why paying the flat 12.5% LTCG tax without indexation could save you more

Many property sellers may end up paying more tax under the 20% tax regime with indexation than under the flat 12.5% LTCG tax. The benefit of indexation depends on how much the property's value has appreciated over time, making it important to compare both tax calculations before filing.

18 Jul 2026 2:46 pm
From Ketan Parekh scam to Covid: What 25 years of history reveals about ideal asset allocation during market downturns

A portfolio invested entirely in equities typically suffers the deepest drawdowns, whereas adding debt investments can substantially reduce losses during market corrections.

18 Jul 2026 2:18 pm
AMFI updates large, mid, and small-cap stock lists in July 2026: Which stocks climbed the ladder and which fell?

AMFI's latest market-cap review has reshuffled several stocks across the large, mid and small-cap categories. While companies such as BSE, BHEL and Vodafone Idea moved up, others including Hero MotoCorp and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories slipped to lower categories based on average market capitalisation.

18 Jul 2026 2:16 pm
AMFI eases mutual fund transmission process: Easier address, name, and signature verification after the investor's death

The move is intended to address operational challenges frequently faced by families during the transmission process while ensuring a smoother and more uniform experience across mutual fund houses.

18 Jul 2026 1:21 pm
Are you 35 or older? Here's why life insurance deserves a place in your financial portfolio

After age 35, financial responsibilities typically increase, making a balanced portfolio more important. Experts recommend combining life insurance with equity investments, mutual funds & SIPs to build long-term wealth, protect family finances, manage liabilities & boost overall financial security.

18 Jul 2026 12:02 pm
IT Department launches Foreign Assets Information report: Here's what it shows and how taxpayers can download it

The Income Tax Department has introduced a Foreign Assets Information (FAI) report on its Compliance Portal. Taxpayers can securely download their foreign asset information in a password-protected PDF, review the reported details, and submit feedback if they identify any discrepancies.

18 Jul 2026 11:13 am
Crypto in your portfolio? Experts share key disclosures and compliance tips for ITR filing

From selecting the correct ITR form to maintaining transaction records across exchanges and wallets, investors with crypto holdings need to pay close attention to disclosures to avoid notices and ensure smooth tax filing.

18 Jul 2026 10:37 am
The 10-10-10 SIP rule: A simple formula for long-term wealth creation

The 10-10-10 SIP rule helps investors build long-term wealth by investing for 10 years, assuming 10% annual returns and increasing SIP contributions by 10% each year. Learn how step-up SIPs can create a larger corpus through disciplined investing and compounding.

18 Jul 2026 10:31 am
Bank holiday today? Check if SBI, HDFC, ICICI are open or closed on 18 July RBI calendar here

Most public and private banks across India will remain open today, on Saturday, 18 July. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)'s holiday calendar, bank operations will continue as normal since it is the third Saturday of the month

18 Jul 2026 7:20 am
Income-tax returns: Top 10 things first time taxpayers must keep in mind while filing ITR

Income-tax returns: Attention first time taxpayers! From required documents, to which forms to fill, and the deadline date here are the top 10 important things to keep in mind while filing your ITR.

17 Jul 2026 10:56 pm
EPF Withdrawal Rules: Pulling out your PF money? Heres when its taxable and how to keep it tax-free

Understanding these rules is essential, particularly if you are switching jobs, dealing with a financial emergency or planning to access your retirement savings before retirement.

17 Jul 2026 7:46 pm
EPFO: Here's how first-time users can activate UAN using Umang app and Aadhaar face authetication Stepwise guide

The EPFO has discontinued UAN activation and new generation through the portal and shifted both services to the Umang app with Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (FAT) requirement. Here's how first-time users can complete activation

17 Jul 2026 7:43 pm
8th Pay Commission ToR outlines salary, DA, pension and allowance changes: Check full list

8th Pay Commission: The official terms of reference (ToR) outline what central government employees and pensioners can expect from the 8th CPC's recommendations. From DA hike to revised salary structure, pension, allowances and other benefits Check full list of likely announcements here.

17 Jul 2026 6:09 pm
Facing NPS remittance delays? Finance Ministry steps in with stern warning, errant officials risk penalties

The DoE reiterated that if an employee's monthly NPS contribution is credited past the established deadline, interest must be paid to the subscriber for the duration of the delay. This compensatory interest will match the prevailing PPF interest rate, which currently stands at 7.1%

17 Jul 2026 5:52 pm
Probate of Will in India explained: Rules, court procedure and how it helps avoid inheritance disputes

Probate of a Will in India confirms its validity and gives legal authority to the executor. Check and understand the process, documents required, court procedure, recent changes, and when probate can help prevent inheritance disputes.

17 Jul 2026 5:35 pm
DA hike: If not July, when could the next Dearness Allowance increase come this year?

Dearness Allowance: Even if no DA hike is announced this month in July 2026, central government employees and pensioners could still see a second increase sometime in the second half of the year during the festive season.

17 Jul 2026 5:11 pm
Can a 2,000 monthly SIP really make you a crorepati? Lets do the maths

Investing just 2,000 every monthan amount many people spend on leisure activities or eating outcan potentially grow into a corpus of more than 1 crore.

17 Jul 2026 4:08 pm
No Flexi Cap Fund gave 10% returns over the last 1 year: Should investors worry? Here's what experts say

The best-performing flexi cap fund returned 9.91% over the past year, while only five schemes crossed the 8% mark. Experts say the muted performance reflects market conditions, not poor fund management.

17 Jul 2026 3:42 pm
EPF Scheme 2026: New rules for exempted PF trusts, what employees must know

The Employees' Provident Funds Scheme, 2026 introduces an interest rate ceiling, mandatory digital compliance and stricter governance norms for exempted PF trusts run by eligible employers. Here's what the new rules mean for employees.

17 Jul 2026 3:19 pm
Hospitalized? 10 essential steps for hassle-free health insurance claim settlement

Health insurance claims can become stressful during emergencies. These 10 practical steps, from hospital admission to discharge, ensure faster cashless claim settlement, avoid delays, manage documents properly and reduce financial pressure, especially during emergencies.

17 Jul 2026 2:46 pm
PF after retirement: When does your EPF balance stop earning interest? EPFO rules explained

Retirement does not automatically stop interest on your EPF balance. Here's how long your provident fund continues to earn interest under the EPF Scheme, 2026, based on your retirement age.

17 Jul 2026 10:51 am
Gold, silver prices today, 17 July: Check retail rates of 24K, 22K gold, 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata

Gold and silver prices today, 17 July: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.

17 Jul 2026 9:35 am
8th Pay Commission: Estimated HRA for Level 14-16 employees under 2.0 to 2.57 fitment factors explained

The 8th Pay Commission is likely to revise salaries and allowances for nearly 1.1 crore central government employees and pensioners. While the fitment factor is yet to be finalised, estimates indicate how HRA for Level 14-16 employees could increase under different fitment scenarios.

17 Jul 2026 9:29 am
Government may bring back UPI MDR for large merchants: Who could be affected?

The Centre is considering reintroducing a merchant discount rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. If approved, the levy is expected to apply only to large merchants and higher-value payments, while small businesses and consumers are likely to remain unaffected.

17 Jul 2026 9:14 am
Don't overpay for growth: Nippon Life AMC's Sailesh Raj Bhan on navigating India's next market cycle

After two years of valuation-led consolidation, Nippon Life AMC's equity CIO Sailesh Raj Bhan says improving earnings, reasonable valuations and a strong macro backdrop are creating fresh opportunities for long-term investors.

17 Jul 2026 9:00 am
Senior citizen FD rates: These banks offer up to 8.5% interest despite recent rate cuts

For senior citizens, even a marginal difference in interest rates can translate into substantially higher earnings over time, particularly on large deposits. Comparing FD rates across banks before investing can help maximise interest income without increasing investment risk.

16 Jul 2026 11:10 pm
Power of compounding: Here's how much minimum you need to invest monthly in PPF to make your child a crorepati

Attention parents! Want to start a public provident fund account for your child? We calculate the minimum amount you would need to invest in their PPF per month in order to successfully set them up for crorepati status in the long run.

16 Jul 2026 10:56 pm
Filed your income-tax returns? Here's why you should complete e-Verification within 30 days Stepwise guide

Filing ITR alone is not enough, you have to e-verify your return within 30 days so that it does not become invalid and to ensure a smooth refund process from the tax department. Check here for the step-by-step taxpayers' guide

16 Jul 2026 9:58 pm
8th pay commission: Here's how much HRA could change for employee levels 6-10 based on fitment factor suggestions

8th pay commission: We take a look at the likely revision in house rent allowance (HRA) for central government employees across levels 6 to 10 in X, Y and Z category cities based on various fitment factor suggestions.

16 Jul 2026 8:57 pm
The debt-free trap: Why shunning all forms of credit can actually stunt your financial growth

Before you vow to never borrow another rupee, here is a realistic look at how to make debt work for younot against you.

16 Jul 2026 8:26 pm