The Economic Times
Elections 2026Personal Finance / The Economic Times
Investing in gold and silver has shown different returns over various periods. Gold delivered approximately 190% returns over five years, while silver reached 178%. Silver has outperformed gold in the last three years, showing faster price increases.
Gold and silver prices have risen as Dhanteras and Diwali approach, sparking increased shopping interest. Major jewellery brands reported higher rates for 22k gold jewellery across various cities today. Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Joyalukkas, and Kalyan Jewellers all raised their Gold rates significantly. The India Bullion and Jewellers Association also released updated indicative rates for gold.
Silver ETFs rallied up to 6% as silver prices rebounded above $50 an ounce following the Democrats' US midterm election victory. Experts advise investors against chasing the recovery, citing volatility, uncertain industrial demand and the possibility of further price swings.
Eight leading fund managers broadly support holding gold as a portfolio diversifier and hedge against economic and geopolitical uncertainty. However, they recommend gradual accumulation and a modest allocation instead of chasing recent gains.
As per the BIS guidelines, there are several gold articles on which the Rs 75 gold hallmarking fee is not applied. These include gold watch and fountain pain, among others. Many jewellery pieces also include two or more parts which may be joined together, like in earrings or necklaces. For such articles, buyers should ensure that each article in a pair and all detachable parts should be hallmarked with different HUIDs.
The Central Bureau of Investigation has registered a case involving a USD 10 million fraud. This fraud is related to India Exim Bank and a UK-based company named Hanjer Biotech. Officials allege that the company diverted funds after requesting a loan for a recycling project. The loan was approved in 2012 but classified as a non-performing asset in 2014. The entire amount was reportedly siphoned off, leading to the investigation.
Pensioners can easily submit their Digital Life Certificate from the comfort of their home using the Jeevan Pramaan app. This innovative app employs Aadhaar-based face authentication through a smartphone camera. To aid the pensioners, a dedicated campaign is forthcoming to guide them through the submission process. Upon successful authentication, a Pramaan ID will be issued for future use, benefiting both central and state government retirees.
As the Diwali festivities unfold, investors should exercise caution and resist the urge to make hasty decisions based on the current market climate. It's vital to adhere to preset financial objectives and strategies rather than chasing after recent high-performers, which can lead to recency bias and unnecessary risk. A thorough evaluation of asset allocations, particularly in gold and silver, is essential to safeguard long-term wealth without succumbing to emotional impulses.
Robotic surgery is increasingly covered by health insurance in India, but not without complications. Despite having a high sum insured, policyholders must navigate sub-limits and exclusions that can significantly reduce payouts. Understanding these nuances before undergoing surgery is crucial to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses when the final bill arrives.
Policyholders gave Rs 35 lakh cash as insurance premiums which agent deposited in his bank a/c; Income Tax Dept sent agent notice for unexplained cash; he wins case in ITAT Jaipur.
Loan closed but CIBIL still shows it as active? Gather your NOC, contact your lender and raise a dispute with the credit bureau. Here is the full process.
Taxpayer wins GST refund denial case after depositing GST on airline ticket with the govt and later refunding the GST back to passengers due to cancelled ticket; GSTAT orders GST department to issue GST refund with interest to taxpayer
One may invest in large cap mutual funds with a minimum investment horizon of five to seven years. Look out for our monthly updates where we keep discussing the performance of these schemes. We typically come up with our updates in the first or second week of every month.
Nexus Select Trust reported an 8% year-on-year increase in net operating income for the second quarter. The company's retail assets experienced a 13% rise in consumption compared to the previous year. Nexus declared a distribution of Rs 359 crore, maintaining a 100% payout to unitholders for 13 consecutive quarters. The firm is expanding its portfolio with plans to develop a Grade-A mall and hotel in Guwahati.
8th Pay Commission latest news: On November 3, 2025, the government announced the 8th Pay Commissions Terms of Reference. The Commission is tasked with submitting its report within an 18-month deadline ending on May 3, 2027. An 18-question questionnaire was launched to gather inputs from stakeholders about various employment issues. Additionally, stakeholder consultations began in April 2026, with meetings held in multiple cities. Recommendations will influence future pay and pension adjustments
Quant Mutual Fund has strategically reduced its exposure to IT stocks and boosted its investments in FMCG sectors. This shift is due to disappointing earnings from key tech companies, leading to a cautious approach towards manufacturing amid ongoing supply chain issues. Nevertheless, the fund expresses confidence in India's investment potential amidst global market instabilities and has also introduced three new index funds for passive investors.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has put forth a proposal to exempt long-term capital gains tax for investors who switch mutual funds. This change if accepted by the government would enable individuals to adjust their portfolios without facing tax penalties, promoting more strategic reinvestment.
Around 14 equity mutual funds lost more than 10% in October, with international schemes dominating the list of worst performers. Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund recorded the steepest decline at 16.71%, followed by funds focused on global consumer trends and emerging markets.
Only eight of 292 equity mutual funds delivered returns exceeding 10% on lump-sum investments since Diwali 2025. TRUSTMF Small Cap Fund topped the list with an 18.73% gain, while 214 schemes posted negative returns, including eight that lost over 10%.
During Diwali, many choose to invest in gold due to its cultural significance and potential financial returns. It's crucial to grasp the tax implications when deciding between physical gold and gold ETFs. Purchasing physical gold triggers GST and varied capital gains taxes depending on how long it's held. Conversely, gold ETFs offer more favorable conditions for capital gains. Investors need to weigh their goals to make the best choice.
Gold rates tpday: Gold prices for 22k jewellery have increased across major brands in India as Dhanteras approaches. while, gold and silver jewellery indicative prices at the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) also increased today.
Nine leading fund managers share their preferred Diwali investment themes, ranging from asset allocation and large-cap equities to consumption, manufacturing and power equipment. Their selections focus on Indias domestic growth, improving valuations and long-term structural opportunities.
HIghest FD interest rate: Punjab National Bank and Canara Bank have updated their fixed deposit interest rates effective from November 2026. Bank of India also revised its fixed deposit interest rates recently with competitive offers.
During the festive season of Diwali, savvy investors often gravitate towards gold and silver seeking security. Experts recommend evaluating personal investment goals to decide on gold, known for its stability, or silver, which presents higher risks but potential for greater returns. Recent data shows gold ETFs delivered 9.22% returns, while silver ETFs outperformed with 14.05%. A balanced approach within your portfolio can lead to sustainable wealth amidst market fluctuations.
Trident shares rallied 13% after the company reported a 93.1% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY27 net profit to Rs 175.50 crore. Improved EBITDA and margins supported earnings growth, while the company announced a Rs 4,650-crore capacity expansion and modernisation programme.
In a significant ruling, the Hyderabad ITAT absolves Mr Chintakunta of tax additions regarding unexplained cash and jewellery found during a 2010 search. The tribunal underscored the importance of maintaining proper records and adhering to CBDT guidelines, emphasizing that taxpayers can contest similar disputes by presenting sufficient supporting evidence.
SEBI introduced Life Cycle Funds in February 2026. Learn how the glide path works, the allocation bands, exit loads, tax benefits and who should invest.
ETMutualFunds decided to put out a list of top 10 mutual fund schemes. 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.

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