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The Economic Times

Personal Finance / The Economic Times

5 highest FD interest rates in April 2026 after RBI MPC meet: 1, 3 and 5-year FD rates across PSU, private and small finance banks

Highest FD rates: The Reserve Bank of India has kept the repo rate steady at 5.25%. Experts suggest fixed deposit rates may not increase immediately. However, future rate hikes are possible due to various economic indicators. The article highlights the highest FD interest rates across public, private, and small finance banks for 1, 3, and 5-year tenures as of April 8, 2026.

8 Apr 2026 5:30 pm
Looking to invest in ETFs? Know 3 strategies to consider before you start

Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) offer a passive investment approach, mirroring index performance and allowing investors to align choices with their time horizon and financial goals. A structured strategy, including regular investments via SIPs, can foster discipline and help achieve objectives. Understanding the tracked index is crucial for informed ETF selection.

8 Apr 2026 4:00 pm
PPFAS Asset Management gets approval to sponsor pension funds under NPS

PPFAS Asset Management has received approval from the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) today to become a sponsor for a pension fund under the National Pension System (NPS).

8 Apr 2026 3:14 pm
RBI MPC outcome: Experts explain what the rate pause means for investors

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India, in its bi-monthly review on Wednesday, decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% and maintained its neutral stance.

8 Apr 2026 3:08 pm
NFO Alert : Groww Mutual Fund launches arbitrage fund

Groww Mutual Fund has announced the launch of the Groww Arbitrage Fund, an open-ended scheme investing in arbitrage opportunities. The scheme is designed to capture pricing differences between the cash and derivatives markets, with the aim of generating relatively stable returns with limited directional equity risk.

8 Apr 2026 2:49 pm
22k gold rate today: Check 22K, 24K gold prices (April 8, 2026) on Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Kalyan Jewellers, Joyalukkas and IBJA

Gold prices in India saw a slight increase on April 8, 2026, despite a ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran. Major jewelers like Tanishq, Kalyan Jewellers, Joyalukkas, and Malabar Gold & Diamonds reported higher rates for 22k gold.

8 Apr 2026 2:29 pm
4 new PAN card forms in FY26-27: Which form to use- 93, 94, 95 or 96? Old vs new

Starting April 1, 2026, new PAN application forms are in effect. Four distinct forms, 93, 94, 95, and 96, cater to specific applicant types including Indian citizens, foreign individuals, and various entities.

8 Apr 2026 2:11 pm
Sunil Singhania-backed Abakkus Small Cap Fund first portfolio out since NFO; 42 stocks held, Karur Vysya Bank top bet

Sunil Singhania backed Abakkus Mutual Fund has unveiled the maiden portfolio of its smallcap fund - Abakkus Small Cap Fund, following an in-house investment framework viz. MEETS, to evaluate key drivers of long-term value creation. This marks the funds first update since its NFO.

8 Apr 2026 1:28 pm
Bank holiday for elections on April 9, 2026: Are banks open or closed in Assam, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa and other poll-bound states?

Bank holiday on April 9: Bank customers in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry are seeking clarity on bank operations for April 9, 2026. Elections for legislative assemblies are scheduled in these states. While the RBI holiday calendar does not list a closure, local branches should be consulted. Central government offices will close in notified polling areas. This ensures citizens can exercise their voting rights.

8 Apr 2026 1:02 pm
RBI ups crude oil, exchange rate baseline assumptions for FY27

The Reserve Bank of India said it anticipated crude oil prices to average USD 85 per barrel and the Indian rupee to trade at 94 against the US dollar in FY27. These projections are part of the central bank's latest Monetary Policy report. The report also details past trends, including the rupee's significant depreciation in FY26 due to outflows and global factors.

8 Apr 2026 12:54 pm
RBI MPC decision: How should debt mutual fund investors change strategy after rate pause?

The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% presents a complex landscape for investors. Experts advise debt fund investors to prioritize short-to-medium duration funds and high-quality corporate bonds to manage risks. Equity investors are encouraged to consider largecap and flexicap strategies amidst global uncertainties and inflation concerns.

8 Apr 2026 12:33 pm
Did you donate to a political party or plan to do so in the future and claim an income tax deduction? New ITR forms require extra disclosure, check what to report

New income tax return forms for Assessment Year 2026-27 demand greater detail on political party donations. Taxpayers seeking deductions under Section 80GGC must now provide the political party's name and PAN. This change aims to enhance transparency and traceability of contributions. Individuals donating through banking channels or UPI should be aware of these updated disclosure requirements.

8 Apr 2026 11:33 am
Retirement planning via mutual funds: How to achieve Rs 2 crore corpus

A 52-year-old investor aiming for a Rs 2 crore retirement corpus by age 60 faces a potential shortfall with his current Rs 30 lakh portfolio and Rs 40,000 monthly SIP. Experts advise simplifying the diversified portfolio, increasing SIPs by 8-10% annually, and gradually shifting towards debt for capital protection.

8 Apr 2026 11:13 am
Best small cap mutual funds to invest in April 2026

Despite a challenging 2025 with negative returns, small cap mutual funds saw renewed investor interest in February 2026 with significant inflows. While valuations are considered rich and market volatility persists, advisors suggest staggered investments in these high-risk, high-reward schemes for long-term wealth creation.

8 Apr 2026 10:56 am
Silver, gold ETFs rally up to 6% as Iran ceasefire eases inflation fears. Should you buy?

Silver and gold ETFs surged up to 6% on Wednesday, mirroring gains in global bullion markets. This rally followed U.S. President Trump's agreement to a two-week ceasefire with Iran, easing energy-driven inflation concerns. Experts suggest current levels offer an attractive consolidation zone for long-term investors.

8 Apr 2026 10:04 am
Will FD investors see higher interest rates in coming months despite RBI holding repo rate?

Retaining repo rates in succession was a relief for many FD investors who have been depositing for low maturity amounts for some time after many banks and small finance banks cut deposit rates following the RBIs 125 bps repo rate cut last year (2025). However, traditional banks and small finance banks are less likely to increase FD rates in the near future, but the possibility of a rate is quite a possibility given many indicators suggesting so.

8 Apr 2026 10:04 am
Will dream run for home loan borrowers end soon despite RBI maintaining status quo on repo rate?

The Reserve Bank of India has kept the repo rate steady at 5.25%. Home loan borrowers may see temporary relief. However, rising inflation, driven by global events, suggests a potential repo rate increase in upcoming meetings. This could lead to higher home loan interest rates. Strategies like prepayment and refinancing can help manage future loan costs.

8 Apr 2026 10:04 am
Builder fraud: Bombay HC denies society membership to homebuyer who was sold refuge area as residential flats

When Mr Sewadsha from Ghatkopar East purchased five apartments in a housing project in Bhandup he had no idea that the builder had cheated him by selling refuge areas (vacant areas). The reason why the builder could dupe Sewadsha is because there was an error in the plan annexed to the Occupancy Certificate which shows a part of the vacant space as residential flats on 8th and 15th floor of the housing society even though no constructed residential apartment, fit for occupation, exists there.

8 Apr 2026 7:01 am
Think your NPS saving is enough for retirement? Watch out for this common mistake that could derail your financial plans

Many investors overlook their National Pension System, assuming retirement plans are on track. However, a 'set and forget' approach can lead to misaligned asset allocation and insufficient corpus. Regular reviews are crucial to ensure contributions and investments align with long-term goals. Adjusting risk and rebalancing portfolios helps secure retirement wealth.

8 Apr 2026 6:30 am
Multicap funds gain traction, but risk from small-cap exposure persists

Multicap funds are gaining traction as a comprehensive investment option, offering exposure to large, mid, and small-cap stocks. However, regulatory mandates requiring significant allocation to smaller stocks make them more susceptible to market volatility and deeper drawdowns during corrections, unlike more flexible categories.

8 Apr 2026 6:20 am
Tata Mutual Fund allows lumpsum investments in small-cap plan again

Tata Mutual Fund has reopened its small-cap fund to lumpsum investments. This move follows a market correction that has presented better entry points. The fund manager sees a favourable risk-reward for investors with a 3-5 year horizon. Other small-cap funds still have restrictions. The small-cap category manages significant assets.

8 Apr 2026 5:51 am
Parental wealth crucial when determining wife's maintenance? Bombay HC directs husband to deposit Rs 3 lakh; know why

What must be assessed is whether the claimant spouse has sufficient independent income to sustain herself, the court said. While highlighting that the wifes familys financial background is irrelevant in this case, Justice Urmila Joshi Phalke noted that interim maintenance depends on financial necessity.

7 Apr 2026 5:43 pm
Tata Mutual Fund resumes lumpsum subscriptions in Tata Small Cap Fund

Tata Mutual Fund has announced the resumption of all fresh inflows through lumpsum and switch-in applications, in Tata Small Cap Fund effective from April 06, 2026.

7 Apr 2026 5:36 pm
24K gold rates in Dubai today (April 7, 2026): Latest 24K, 22K prices at Kalyan Jewellers, Dubai Jewellery Group, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Joyalukkas

Gold prices in Dubai saw minor fluctuations on April 7, 2026. Major retailers like Joyalukkas, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Dubai Jewellery Group, and Kalyan Jewellers reported rates for various karats. Investors remained cautious due to geopolitical tensions involving the US and Iran. The UAE Dirham exchange rate against the Indian Rupee was also provided.

7 Apr 2026 5:19 pm
Shukla family strengthens footprint in Mumbais premium real estate segment

Promoters of DGS Group, Brahamdev, Sourav, and Rohan Shukla, have acquired a luxury penthouse at Oberoi Elysian in Goregaon East for approximately 60 crore. This significant transaction, covering 8,561 sq. ft. with eight parking slots, highlights the growing interest of business families in Mumbai's premium real estate market.

7 Apr 2026 3:58 pm
22k gold rate today: Check 22K, 24K gold prices (April 7, 2026) on Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Kalyan Jewellers, Joyalukkas and IBJA

Gold rate prediction: Gold prices are experiencing volatility amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with a US deadline for Iran creating uncertainty. While leading jewelers saw slight increases in 22k gold rates, the IBJA reported a drop across various purities. Experts predict short-term price fluctuations but a positive medium to long-term outlook for gold and silver.

7 Apr 2026 3:43 pm
I invest Rs 60,000 monthly via SIPs. Should I add a multi-asset or balanced advantage fund to reduce volatility?

I am 42, earning Rs 28 lakh annually. I invest Rs 60,000 per month through SIPs in a mix of large cap (40%), flexi-cap (30%) and mid-cap (30%) funds. My investment horizon is 12-15 years, primarily for retirement. Is it advisable to add a multi-asset or balanced advantage fund to reduce volatility?

7 Apr 2026 3:42 pm
Invesco India Mid Cap among 5 mid cap mutual funds to offer over 20% CAGR in 3 years

Five mid-cap mutual funds delivered over 20% returns in three years, led by WhiteOak Capital. Meanwhile, laggard funds posted modest gains, highlighting performance divergence within the mid-cap mutual fund category.

7 Apr 2026 3:24 pm
This industry gives the highest salary hike: Not IT or real estate; check what's driving salary success in 2026

Salary hikes in India are stabilizing around 9.1% for 2026, a slight increase from 9.0% in 2025, as companies prioritize cost discipline and productivity. While some sectors offer higher increments, a broader talent pool and a shift towards skills-based hiring are influencing compensation strategies.

7 Apr 2026 2:30 pm
Six big TDS & TCS changes for Tax Year 2026-27: From TDS on NRI property to TCS on overseas remittance for education, know all that has changed

New tax rules for Tax Year 2026-27 begin April 1, 2026. Key changes affect TDS on NRI property and TCS on overseas remittances for education. Interest on motor vehicle compensation is now tax-exempt. Small taxpayers get an easier process for lower TDS certificates. TDS on manpower supply is clarified.

7 Apr 2026 2:28 pm
Qsif Active Asset Allocator Long-Short Fund is open for subscription. 8 key things to know

Quant Mutual Fund launches dynamic multi-asset long-short fund, investing across equity, debt, derivatives, commodities and InVITs. The strategy aims to optimise returns, manage risk, and suit long-term investors.

7 Apr 2026 2:28 pm
EPFO 3.0 withdrawal rules explained: When can EPF members withdraw their PF corpus through UPI?

EPFO is set to launch EPFO 3.0, enabling UPI withdrawals and simplifying fund access for members. New rules consolidate withdrawal provisions into three categories: essential, housing, and special needs. Members can now withdraw up to 75% of their balance anytime, including employer contributions, offering greater flexibility for emergencies and life events.

7 Apr 2026 2:08 pm
Laid off or lost your job? Use 75% EPF amount while rest 25% compounds @8.25% - Check EPFO withdrawal rules in case of unemployment

While members are entitled to take out up to 100% of their eligible EPF balance, including both employee and employer contributions, there are certain terms and conditions that apply. So, what happens in case you lose your job or are laid off by your company?

7 Apr 2026 1:59 pm
Want to build Rs 1 crore corpus? Find out the mutual fund SIP amount needed with this calculator

This guide helps you calculate the monthly SIP needed to reach a Rs 1 crore goal using simple Excel functions or a DIY paper formula. Adjust assumptions, returns, and timelines to plan your investments with confidence and clarity.

7 Apr 2026 1:42 pm
HDFC Bank trims lending rates: EMIs for these loans to fall as lender cuts MCLR on select tenures

HDFC Bank lending rates: HDFC Bank has reduced its Marginal Cost of Funds-based Lending Rates (MCLR) on select tenures by up to 5 basis points, effective April 7, 2026. This adjustment benefits borrowers with loans linked to the MCLR regime, with overnight and one-month rates now at 8.10%.

7 Apr 2026 12:13 pm
Portfolio in red after moving from FDs? Expert shares how to handle volatility and allocate smartly

A Gujarat-based investor, new to equity mutual funds after years in fixed deposits, faces initial losses but shows courage to invest further. Experts advise focusing on asset allocation across market caps rather than changing existing sound funds. Additional investments should be channeled into current flexi-cap and multi-cap schemes, with lumpsum considered if comfortable with volatility.

7 Apr 2026 11:53 am
MF Tracker: Quant Multi Asset Allocation Fund shines across timeframes. Can it sustain the lead?

Quant Multi Asset Allocation Fund has achieved top returns across 3, 5, 7, and 10-year periods among its peers. Its dynamic asset allocation strategy, particularly overweight positions in financials and timely tactical shifts, has driven this consistent outperformance, even outshining the category average.

7 Apr 2026 10:49 am
India plans sovereign guarantees on loans to businesses hit by Iran war, sources say

India is set to launch sovereign credit guarantees for loans totaling $26.7 billion. This initiative aims to bolster businesses, especially small ones, impacted by the Middle East crisis. The government will provide guarantees for four years, similar to measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move is expected to cost between 170 billion and 180 billion rupees.

7 Apr 2026 9:46 am