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The Economic Times

Personal Finance / The Economic Times

22k gold rate today: Check 22K, 24K gold prices (April 9, 2026) on Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Kalyan Jewellers, Joyalukkas and IBJA

Gold prices saw a dip today, April 9, 2026, after a sharp rise yesterday. This shift follows developments in the global bullion market, specifically the Iran-US ceasefire. Major Indian jewellery brands like Tanishq, Kalyan Jewellers, Joyalukkas, and Malabar Gold & Diamonds reported lower rates for 22k gold. The Indian Bullion and Jewellers Association also noted this downward trend.

9 Apr 2026 3:17 pm
Filing ITR just got easier: This new AI chatbot helps with income tax queries, forms and rules; check details

The Income Tax Department has launched Kar Saathi, an AI chatbot on its revamped portal to simplify tax filing. This tool offers 24/7 assistance, clear explanations of complex tax rules, and step-by-step guidance, aiming to reduce errors and taxpayer reliance on experts. It marks a move towards proactive compliance.

9 Apr 2026 3:03 pm
7 rules for child education allowance eligibility: Ministry clarifies criteria for central government employees to get CEA benefit

The Department of Posts has issued new FAQs clarifying child education allowance rules for central government employees. These clarifications address admissibility for pre-primary classes, including repetitions under NEP-2020, and situations like leave, suspension, retirement, and termination. The aim is to ensure uniform implementation and avoid confusion for postal staff.

9 Apr 2026 2:44 pm
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund raises stakes in TCS, ITC and 14 other stocks in March

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund increased stakes in Tata Consultancy Services, ITC and 14 other stocks in March, while trimming only Balkrishna Industries. The fund raised holdings in HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Coal India and others, maintaining a diversified portfolio across 21 sectors.

9 Apr 2026 1:10 pm
Revised NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme rules: Onboarding fee, coverage, claim process, premature exit and more

New guidelines for NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme PoC 2 are now in effect. Health insurance benefits are mandatory for subscribers. The scheme allows partial withdrawals for medical expenses and a 100% lump sum exit for emergencies. Any Indian citizen can join this voluntary, contributory pension scheme. Contributions are invested for retirement while providing immediate medical support.

9 Apr 2026 1:07 pm
Should you invest in multicap mutual funds? Heres how to decide

Multicap funds are gaining traction post market correction as a diversified investment route. However, their mandated exposure to large, mid, and smallcap stocks makes them vulnerable to volatility, especially during market downturns. These funds are best for investors comfortable with higher risk across market cycles.

9 Apr 2026 12:45 pm
Earning from idle crypto: A practical guide for long-term holders

Crypto investors can now earn from idle assets without constant trading. Flexible savings accounts allow users to deposit cryptocurrencies like USDT, BTC, and ETH to generate interest. This approach offers a middle ground, keeping funds accessible while they work in the background.

9 Apr 2026 11:32 am
Silver, gold ETFs fall up to 4% as rising crude, rate hike fears hit sentiment. What should investors do?

Silver and gold ETFs saw significant drops on Thursday, shedding up to 4%, as MCX bullion prices followed global weakness. The US Federal Reserve's minutes signaled further rate hikes amid inflation concerns, while geopolitical risks from the Iran conflict also weighed on markets. Investors remain cautious, awaiting clarity on the US-Iran ceasefire.

9 Apr 2026 10:32 am
Gold ETFs lose up to 6% since Mideast war. Should investors buy, hold or exit?

Gold ETFs have seen declines of up to 8% despite Middle East tensions, leaving investors uncertain. Experts advise against panic selling, recommending asset allocation and staggered buying for those at higher entry points. The recent ceasefire has caused a temporary rally, but long-term gold performance hinges on inflation and central bank policies.

9 Apr 2026 10:17 am
Best large & mid cap funds to invest in April 2026

Large & mid cap mutual funds invest a minimum of 35% in both large and mid-cap stocks, offering a blend of stability and risk. Fund managers have flexibility with the remaining corpus, making these schemes suitable for aggressive investors with a long-term horizon willing to take on extra risk.

9 Apr 2026 9:58 am
Deposited Rs 80 lakh cash during demonetisation? ITAT rejects property purchase claim, calls it unexplained income

A Surat businessman's Rs 80 lakh cash deposit during demonetisation was deemed unexplained by ITAT Surat. The tribunal rejected his claim of withdrawing funds for a property deal. The court found his explanation lacked evidence and defied normal business conduct. The businessman's appeal was dismissed, upholding the tax department's action.

9 Apr 2026 8:34 am
After 43 years, family wins back pay and post-death benefits for employee fired for yelling at company doctor

After a 43-year legal battle, the family of an employee fired for yelling at a company doctor has won back pay and post-death benefits. The Jharkhand High Court ruled the dismissal harsh, citing medical negligence and the employee's severe pain as mitigating factors. The family will receive 40% of back wages and all consequential benefits.

9 Apr 2026 8:03 am
DA hike delay: Will government skip it or just postpone it? Experts weigh in

Central government employees are eagerly awaiting their dearness allowance hike. The announcement, usually made earlier, is now delayed. Experts suggest this is due to administrative transitions and the upcoming 8th Pay Commission. Employees will receive arrears from January 1, 2026, regardless of the announcement date. The government is expected to issue the official order soon, possibly by mid-April.

9 Apr 2026 8:00 am
Bank holiday today for elections: Are banks open or closed today on April 9, 2026, in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry?

Bank customers in poll-bound states should plan branch visits for April 9, 2026. Elections are scheduled in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry. Banks in polling constituencies may close. ATMs and online services will operate normally.

9 Apr 2026 7:00 am
NCLAT upholds NCLT order on distribution of funds from a resolution plan

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal has rejected a plea from five banks. They challenged fund distribution to SBI and Punjab National Bank. The tribunal upheld the distribution mechanism. This mechanism was approved by the lenders' body and the NCLT. The case involves OCL Iron and Steel insolvency proceedings. Indrani Patnaik's resolution plan was approved.

8 Apr 2026 10:49 pm
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