Life Insurance Corporation has rolled out LIC New Smart Pension Plan. It is a non-participating, non-linked, individual, savings, immediate annuity plan. This is a single premium immediate annuity plan. The official website…
Category: Finance
Should you opt for both NPS and EPF in the new tax regime?
National pension system (NPS) and employee provident fund (EPF) are two key retirement schemes in India. While anyone can open an NPS account, one has to be in a full-time job to…
Five surprising reasons why credit card application could be denied
There are numerous potential reasons why a credit card application can be rejected, and the applicant is left confused. Knowing the reasons in advance can enhance your approval prospects the next time….
Kotak Mahindra Bank cuts interest on savings account by 50 bps. Check here
Kotak Mahindra Bank has slashed its interest rates on savings accounts effective February 17, 2025 soon after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced its repo rate by 25 basis points. Below…
Mutual funds: Why are investors stopping their SIPs? Experts say this
Despite an increase in systematic investment plan (SIPs) contributions, the stoppage ratio of SIPs, which stood at 52.3 per cent last year, has spiked to 109 per cent in January 2025. Against…
New Income Tax: While Australia took 3 years and UK even longer, how did tax reforms in India happen in 6 months?
India’s income tax law has recently undergone a major reform with a new Bill having been introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday and proposed to be reviewed by the select committee….
Is ELSS still a good investment without deduction offered under the New Tax Regime?
In 2023, new tax regime became a default regime which means the taxpayers must opt out of the new tax regime to be able to claim tax exemptions given under sections 80C,…
New Income Tax Bill: Taxpayers can find the relevant provision through section-wise mapping utility. Check here
The income tax department has launched the utility to enable taxpayers to check the relevant provision of the new income tax Bill. The new income tax Bill was introduced in the Parliament…
Mutual Funds: As small, mid cap funds fall sharply, is this the time to stop your SIP?
In 2025, Nifty 50 has lost around 2 per cent, whereas Nifty Midcap 150 index declined by 7 percent, and Nifty Smallcap 250 index 9 per cent. Read this Mint article to…
SBI credit card scam: Man nearly falls for fraud, spelling mistakes save him; Reddit user shares screenshots
A new credit card fraud is in the works where scammers are posing as employees of the State Bank of India, asking unsuspecting customers to avail an offer to increase their credit…
Here’s some investment advice – take expert opinions with a pinch of salt
The first involves doing your homework (reading company reports, analysing mutual funds, keeping tabs on the economy) before deciding which stocks or funds to invest in. This may sound straightforward, but the…
New Income Tax Bill mandates sharing ’access codes’ with tax officials during search and seizure, says Report
New Income Tax Bill: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the long-awaited bill for the new tax code in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, February 13. While the new bill is a significantly…
New Income Tax Bill: Simpler, lighter and future-ready
The bill is culmination of amendments incorporated in successive budgets since the idea of a Direct Tax Code 2010 was floated in 2009. It aims to maintain relative stability in the well…
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to introduce Income-Tax Bill 2025 in Lok Sabha on February 13
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will introduce the new Income-Tax Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha on February 13. The Bill aims to consolidate and amend the taxation laws of the country. “Smt….
Edelweiss CEO Radhika Gupta shares 6 SIP hacks you already know but keep ignoring
Edelweiss CEO Radhika Gupta emphasises that systematic investment plans (SIPs) are a long-term commitment, suggesting that patience and time are crucial for success in investing. Radhika Gupta shared a few insights on…
Will vs trust: Which one is right for my estate?
I am a textile merchant and I want to plan my estate in a way that it protects my wife, parents, and daughter after my death. What are the different things I…
India’s dividend-disclosure dilemma: Meaningful reform or tokenism?
Dividends are more than just a share of profits—they reflect a company’s commitment to shareholders and its approach to governance. Yet, balancing investor payouts with reinvestment for growth has always been a…
What will be your EMI on ₹10-lakh personal loan? Check calculation here
If you are taking a personal loan, all you are worried about is its repayment. It is vital to remember that a personal loan’s EMI hinges on two key factors: loan tenure…
Best Mutual Funds: These 6 value funds gave over 12% annualised returns in the past 10 years. Do you own any?
Before investing in a mutual fund scheme, it is important to see — among other factors –the past returns delivered by a scheme vis-à-vis others schemes which fall in the same category….
Income Tax Bill News LIVE: The proposed bill is expected to be presented in Parliament this week
Income Tax Bill News LIVE: The Union Cabinet has approved the new Income Tax Bill on Friday, February 7, potentially leading to its introduction in the Lok Sabha early next week. This…
These are some of the common UPI-related frauds. Key steps to avoid them
There is no denying the fact that Unified Payment Interface (UPI) has become quite pervasive and it is relied upon for most sundry transactions. In the past few years, most youngsters have…
Best Mutual Funds: These 5 flexi cap schemes delivered over 20% return in the past five years. Do you own any?
Before investing in a mutual fund, investors tend to assess the past returns of that scheme and compare the same with those of other schemes in the same category. Aside from past…
Long-term capital gains: How tax on the sale of an inherited property is computed?
Three sisters inherited one piece of land in 2003, but it was partitioned among the sisters in 2010. For the indexed cost of the purchase in the calculation of long-term capital gain,…
How would 25 bps RBI rate cut reduce monthly home loan EMI and tenure? EXPLAINED
The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Friday, February 8, decided unanimously to reduce the policy rate by 25 basis points to 6.25 per cent from 6.5 per cent….
RBI rate-cutting cycle begins; are personal loan interest rates headed for fall?
With the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) slashing the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25 per cent, interest rates on fresh loans are likely to decline. Notably, today’s repo rate…
Why AIFs need regulatory innovation for next phase of growth
Alternative investment funds (AIFs) have evolved from niche offerings to become a cornerstone of India’s financial ecosystem. With a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31% over the past five years…
New tax regime: Deductions and exemptions explained
While the new tax regime trims down the deductions and exemptions available to taxpayers, it still offers several strategic benefits that can lighten the load for individual taxpayers. Here’s a breakdown of…
How to redeem your credit card points? 3 ways you need to know
The first best on using a credit card is earning reward points for tedious transactions. However, points alone wouldn’t bring value until you effectively learn how you can use them. This guide…
Mutual Funds: Why ’watching the pot’ is hurting your returns—And your sanity
In today’s fast-paced, information-driven world, it’s easy to get obsessed with monitoring the performance of your mutual fund every single day. With apps and websites giving live updates, checking your investment’s performance…
Personal loan: How to use EMI calculator to change your monthly instalment
When you take out a personal loan, one of the most important considerations is to check the monthly instalment to pay off your debt. In case you are wondering how you can…
New Tax Regime: Should you still invest in tax-savings instruments such as PPF, NSC, ELSS, SCSS?
Thanks to Budget 2025, new tax regime has become even more lucrative now. With no income tax for those who earn up to ₹12 lakh a year, taxpayers have one more reason…
What does no income tax up to ₹12 lakh really mean? Decoding differences between tax rebate, deduction & exemption
In the Union Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that the ‘nil income tax’ slab would be raised to ₹12 lakh; however, it is often misunderstood as a tax exemption or…
Are small cap funds still risky for investors? This is what latest stress test shows. Should you invest?
How would you know whether a small cap mutual fund is safe to invest in terms of future volatility? Among several metrics, you may also consider the results of ‘stress test’ which…
Redeeming equity funds? Here’s how to track gains before withdrawal
I want to redeem equity mutual funds this financial year but keep gains under ₹1.25 lakh to avoid capital gains tax. How can I check the split between principal and gains before…
Budget 2025: Earning above ₹12 lakh? Here’s how your tax could spike—or stay in check
Imagine getting a salary bump, only to find that your tax bill eats up most—if not all—of your raise. While the new tax regime in Budget 2025 promises no tax on incomes…
A pragmatic balance of consumption and fiscal discipline
Budget 2025 has moved in a path that at once caters to the immediate requirements of the economy, while continuing on the path to investing for future growth, even while ensuring a…
How much does the best tax return accountant typically charge?
How Much Does the Best Tax Return Accountant Typically Charge? When hiring the best tax return accountant, understanding the cost of their services is an essential consideration for individuals and businesses alike….
Budget 2025: Govt tries to strike a balance between credit and deposits
The Indian banking and financial sector though robust and well capitalized, still faces serious challenges linked to unsecured loans and global market volatility. This fact has already been highlighted in the Economic…
Income tax Budget 2025 Live Updates: Will FM tweak tax slabs and bring cheer for middle class?
Income tax Budget 2025 LIVE: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present Budget 2025 at 11 am on February 1. Will the focus be on potential changes to income tax slabs, exemptions, and…
Shahid Kapoor’s Deva: Behind the flash, the real money lessons you need
The movie has more flash, more swagger than the dark Malayalam version where Prithviraj looks like he’s truly haunted by his loss of memory, and events there seem to be a tad…
Is oral chemotherapy eligible for cashless insurance claim?
My wife has been diagnosed with Glioblastoma (brain cancer). After surgery and radiation, her doctor has prescribed Temozolomide for five days as part of chemotherapy which will continue for 9 -12 months….
Can You Transfer Mutual Funds? Discover the Surprising Offline Method Hidden in Plain Sight!
Are you looking to gift Mutual Fund units to your loved ones or simply consolidate your investments rejigging holdings between different accounts? Did you know that you can transfer or gift Mutual…
Mutual Funds: These 7 large-cap funds gave high returns in the past 10 years. Do you own any?
While the stock market is extremely volatile, some conservative investors are contemplating investing in mutual funds, thereby outsourcing their investing decisions to the experts. If you are also one of them, it…
I’m planning to upgrade my smartphone and laptop. Can I club these under one consumer durable loan?
Q. I’m planning to upgrade my smartphone and laptop. Can I club these under one consumer durable loan? -Name withheld on request If you’re looking to upgrade your gadgets, here’s some good…
What legal steps can be taken if someone challenges a will?
What legal steps can my family take if someone challenges my will? -Name withheld on request Drafting a will is a time-tested and widely used method of succession planning, enabling individuals to…
Need to know your credit card limit? Here are 6 key ways to check
To make intelligent financial decisions, you need to know your credit card limits. You can avoid overspending, which may lead to fines, reduced credit scores, and unnecessary fees, by adhering to these…
Income tax calculator: Find out which tax regime suits you better — New or Old
Income tax calculator: The new tax regime became a default tax regime in FY 2023, which means taxpayers are meant to pay income tax based on the new regime unless they opt…
Skipping notice period leads to a tax trap. Budget 2025 should address this
Switching jobs often brings excitement—a new role, better pay, fresh challenges. But it also comes with its share of challenges, and one of the trickiest is serving out your notice period. For…
UK’s top 100 taxpayers revealed: No.1 on the list is not Ed Sheeran or JK Rowling, it is someone known to Rishi Sunak
The United Kingdom’s (UK) top 100 taxpayers list revealed that the number one taxpayer in the country is not amongst the top celebrities like Ed Sheeran or JK Rowling, it is someone…
Turn capital gains into your dream home by leveraging the power of gifting
So, what do you do if you already have two residential properties in your name but wish to buy a third one for your child or parents with the sale proceeds of…
Top 6 banks charge THESE interest rates on personal loans in January 2025
If you are planning to take out a personal loan, it is recommended that you compare the interest rates charged by different banks so that you can get the best deal. The…
These mid cap, small cap mutual funds beat the benchmark index in past 3 years. Do you own any?
If you are planning to invest in a mutual fund scheme, it is quite usual to evaluate the past returns of that scheme and compare the same with its rivals in the…
Can a 30% flat deduction bring taxpayers back to long-term investments, insurance?
When the new income tax regime was introduced in 2021, people were taken aback by the lack of most deductions. However, the simplified tax regime made a lot of sense. Gone was…
SBI Credit Cards: How can you activate your online and contactless transactions?
Getting a credit card is only the first step in your journey to using it. You also need to get the card activated for carrying out online and contactless transactions and set the spend…
Demand remains soft, Budget needs to leave more money in hands ofconsumers: Pidilite MD Designate
New Delhi, Jan 23 (PTI) Overall demand continues to remain soft as inflation of food, educational and telecom expenses put pressure on disposable income of the average Indian, and steps to leave…
Budget 2025: Govt should announce an MF product like budget 2013 to drive financial inclusion
Mutual funds have come a long way; the numbers speak for themselves. systematic investment plans, or SIPs, have quadrupled in the last eight years, and monthly inflows in December 2024 crossed ₹26,000…
Budget 2025 wishlist: Parity between debt and equity taxation
There was a hue and cry after the Union Budget 2024-25 as the Centre increased the long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax on equity from 10% to 12.5%. However, since April 2023, the…
How to pay your HDFC credit card bill? 9 key methods explained
Paying your credit card bills on time is extremely important to keep a healthy credit score and get better deals on your future borrowings. HDFC bank offers a wide range of credit…
Estate planning in India and how to ensure a smooth transition
How do I plan the smooth transition and safety of the estate that I have accumulated over my lifetime? -Name withheld on request The initial step in estate planning involves a thorough…
Bank account for a minor: The best way to optimize your children’s savings
Avir Tiwari’s wallet was so full that it couldn’t take it anymore. For the six-month-old boy, it wasn’t particularly a bad situation. However, his dad, Ekansh Tiwari, associate vice president of currencies at…
IDFC FIRST Bank launches FD-backed RuPay Credit Card for the first time users
IDFC FIRST Bank, in partnership with RuPay, has announced the launch of the UPI-enabled FD-backed secured credit card. Known as FIRST EARN, it is backed by fixed deposit, thus enabling everyone to…
Navigating TDS compliance for share buybacks from NRIs
I am a resident Indian promoter of an Indian private limited company that manufactures and exports antique furniture. In 2015, my company allotted a small percentage of shares to a non-resident individual…
Your guide to investing in the US and global stocks through the Liberalized Remittance Scheme
Investing in US stocks allows Indian investors to own a slice of the world’s most influential companies, while global exchange-traded funds (ETFs) provide an avenue to diversify portfolios beyond domestic markets. While…
The wealth effect: How perceived prosperity drives spending—and how to stay in control
As you enter your apartment, you unlock your phone again to find the app still showing the discount on the latest model of your 18-month-old phone. Without much thought, you click ‘Buy…
New EPFO feature! Members can change personal details without employer approval
Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched a new feature for its members as employees can now change personal details like their name and date of birth online without any verification from…
Santosh Kamath of Franklin Templeton MF is back with a new credit alternative investment fund
Kamath stepped down as head of fixed income of the mutual fund segment in 2023 to head the newly set-up alternatives business. According to a private presentation accessed by Mint, the AIF…
Mint BFSI Summit | HDFC Pension’s Sriram Iyer busts five NPS myths
Although Indians are increasingly adopting financial assets like stocks and mutual funds, they still have to go a long way in terms of prudent retirement planning, believes Sriram Iyer, the chief executive…
‘The Roshans’ on Netflix: From struggles to success—Money lessons from the Roshans’ legacy
‘This is my grandfather’s voice,’ Hrithik says, and if you can take your eyes away from his beautiful chiseled face, then you will be amazed at how the old boombox is still…
5 key factors to keep in mind when paying for a car with a credit card
Purchasing a car is a major financial commitment, and the idea of using a credit card for the payment may seem appealing, particularly if you’re aiming to earn rewards. While this method…
Sebi’s revamped nominee rules aim to simplify succession but raise new challenge
To address such scenarios, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has rolled out revamped rules that allow nominees to manage the accounts of physically incapacitated investors without requiring a power…
Demystifying factor-based investing: A new opportunity for investors
Imagine you’re shopping for shoes on Amazon. You start with thousands of options but gradually narrow your search using filters like category, colour, size and material until you find the perfect pair….
Capital gains tax: Adding unclaimed loan interest to cost of acquisition
I will be adding unclaimed interest on my home loan to the cost of acquisition. Should I add indexed cost or absolute cost of unclaimed interest while calculating capital gain? – Name…
What home-loan borrowers hope to see in the Budget 2025
The importance of the housing sector to India’s gross domestic product (GDP) cannot be overstated. The major employment generator is expected to contribute 13% to the national GDP. With the Union budget…
FAQs on HUF: Tax benefits, formation, and key rules explained
Confused about Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) units? This guide answers the most common questions about their tax advantages, formation, income types, and legal intricacies. Get expert insights on how to effectively manage…
Personal loan EMI: Now you can switch from floating interest rate to fixed as RBI clarifies norms
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently released a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding a circular on resetting floating interest rates on Equated Monthly Instalment (EMI)-based personal loans. One of…
Filing ITR: You can file updated income tax return for past two years before March 31. Check the rules that apply
If you somehow failed to file your income tax return (ITR) for any of the past two years, you can still file an updated income tax return. These two years are 2021-22 (AY…
Remote worker or a retiree? Thailand has long-term residency options for you
Thailand recently launched two residency programmes that are gradually gaining popularity: the remote work visa and the wealthy pensioner visa for retirees. Here is a look at these options. Remote work visa:…
Budget 2025: The NRI’s wish list
Non-resident Indians play a vital role in India’s economic and social progress, significantly contributing to the country’s growth through remittances, investments, entrepreneurship, and international trade. As the Union Budget for 2025-26 approaches,…
MUST check in ITR filing! These cash transactions may lead to 100% income tax penalty
MUST check in ITR filing: Tax sleuths are out to tighten the noose on cash transactions. Ahead of the union budget, Mint takes a look at some transactions that may result in…
High-interest rate fixed deposits for super senior citizens: SBI vs PNB vs Union Bank of India vs RBL vs Indian Bank
High-interest rate fixed deposits for super senior citizens: Super senior citizens (aged 80 and above) can earn significantly higher returns on their fixed deposits (FDs) than regular depositors. Several leading Indian banks,…
How to apply for education loan: From eligibility to benefits, all you need to know
Tuition, living expenses and other fees rank among the many high costs associated with higher education. Education loans are an effective means for students to meet their objectives without ever having to…
Mahakumbh Mela 2025: First-of-its-Kind Insurance launched for devotees by PhonePe and ICICI Lombard. Details here
Days before MahaKumbh Mela 2025, the digital wallet and payment app Phone Pe, in collaboration with ICICI Lombard General Insurance company, has launched a ‘first-of-its-kind’ insurance policy for devotees. The insurance will…
How to use credit card for UPI payments? A step-by-step guide
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions hit a record high of 16.73 billion in December 2024, a rise of 8 per cent from November data with 15.48 billion transactions, according to data released…
Health insurance claims: How to ensure fair grievance redressal
My health insurance company has rejected my claim because I am unable to furnish internal hospital papers. I have submitted all the required documents. What are my options to ensure that my…
Want to improve your credit score? Holding more than one credit card may help
Do you hold a credit card and plan to procure one more amid some confusion and doubts? If that is the case, then it is vital to remember that holding more than…
Missed the Income Tax deadline? File your belated return by January 15
Taxpayers must note that the deadline for filing a belated income tax return or submitting a revised return for the assessment year 2024-25 is fast approaching. The final date for submission is…
Unlocking value: These 6 mutual funds offered over 15% annual returns in last 10 years; should you invest?
Prior to investing in a mutual fund, investors are advised to evaluate the performance of different schemes in the same category to gauge their historical performance. This not only gives investors a…
A gold loan can solve your cash crunch. Here’s all you need to know about getting one.
If you face a temporary cash crunch and are in an urgent need of funds, you can use the gold sitting in your locker to tide over your cash flow issues. Banks…
How 16.73 billion UPI transactions killed the ubiquitous toffee business
India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions rose to 16.73 billion for the month of December 2024, according to data collected from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) website. This rise is…
RBI tightens personal loan rules: Credit scores now updated within 15 days
As from January 1, 2025, one of the key regulations taken by the Reserve Bank of India will make it compulsory for lenders to update credit bureau records every 15 days. This…
What is the process to merge two EPF UANs?
I worked with two different establishments from 2011 to 2015 and 2015 to 2016, respectively, for which I was assigned two different UANs and PF accounts. My current organisation, for the past…
How this 27-year-old is rebuilding her finances in India after a French detour
But what has worked in favour of Angane is the double income from giving French tuition in the evenings and her day job as a marketing executive. She has decided to stay…
Avoid Tax Hassles: Your comprehensive guide to income tax proof submission for 2024-25
The submission of income tax investment proofs for FY 2024-25 is generally due by March 31st, subject to deadlines, which may vary across organisations. Employers typically start collecting these proofs between January…
Best Mutual Funds: These are the top small-cap MFs to invest in 2025. Do you own any?
Best Mutual Funds: While Indian stock markets remain bullish, analysts point to small-cap mutual funds (MFs) as appealing investment possibilities. Some of these funds have generated alpha gains by consistently outperforming benchmark…
Income Tax Return: Why opting for the old tax regime may make sense for you
If you have made investments in some tax-saving instruments but realise that you won’t be able to claim the deductions against them since you missed intimating your employer about opting for the…
Business loan without collateral: How can you get one for your business?
Getting the money may not be that easy, particularly when you don’t have collateral to pledge to them. Conventional loans demand collateral, for example, in the form of equipment or real estate,…
UPI hits record with ₹16.73 billion in transactions in December 2024
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions hit a record 16.73 billion in December 2024, shows data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). This figure marks an eight percent increase as…
Credit Cards: Why paying only the minimum credit due could hurt your financial health
Do you feel happy when you only pay the minimum amount on your credit card bill because ultimately, you have more money left to spend on other things. Also, you don’t have…
Filing ITR: Last 90 days to claim tax exemption via investments for fiscal year 2025. Check details here
The calendar year 2025 has begun and the financial year 2025 is set to end in three months. However, taxpayers can still invest in a slew of tax-saving schemes that enable them…
Attention taxpayers! You can now claim Section 87A rebate in updated ITR-2 and ITR-3 forms
The Income-Tax (I-T) Department is allowing taxpayers who qualify for the section 87A tax rebate for FY24 to now claim it in the updated Income-Tax Return (ITR) forms — ITR-2 and ITR-3,…
Small savings schemes: Interest rates on PPF, SSY, SCSS remain unchanged for January-March quarter; Check rates
Small savings schemes: The central government has kept the interest rates unchanged on various small savings schemes for the January-March quarter of the financial year 2024-25 (Q4FY25). According to an official notification…
Secured Credit Card: How it can help you establish a strong credit history
Are you looking to build a credit history? But you need a credit history/score to get a credit product that can help you build a credit history. This can make it difficult…
Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme 2024: I-T dept extends deadline to avail interest, penalty waiver till January 31
The income tax department on Monday extended till January 31 the due date for determining the tax dues and filing declaration under the Vivad Se Vishwas scheme for waiver of interest and…
Personal loan for wedding: 5 key factors to consider before you borrow
Weddings are magical, once-in-a-lifetime celebrations where love takes centre stage, and everything else, the venue, the food, the music, works to make the day unforgettable. But let’s be real: magic has a…
Taxing resident Indian’s US rental income: What to watch for
Q – Should a resident Indian having rental income from the US, take the benefit of depreciation and other reliefs allowed in the US and offer for tax on house property income…
2025 Personal Finance Updates: Key changes to know and plan ahead; visa, credit card, EPFO, fixed deposits, UPI, more
New Year 2025 is just around the corner, and it brings more than just resolutions: it is a chance to realign our financial goals for the year. Planning finances for the new…
PPI interoperability: How RBI’s new UPI rule set to ease digital payments? An explainer
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently allowed the users of prepaid payment instruments (PPIs) to access UPI services via third party applications. This is seen as a commendable move which will…
Best Mutual Funds: These equity schemes across market cap gave highest returns in the past 1 year. Do you own any?
Before you invest in a mutual fund, it is natural to evaluate its past returns and compare the same with its peers in the same category. Although past returns do not guarantee…
Loan insurance: What is it, and how does it impact your EMI and interest?
When raising a personal loan, lenders often urge the borrowers to opt for loan insurance. This is to make sure that any unforeseen circumstance does not prevent the borrower from clearing the…
HDFC credit card rewards points: How to redeem them for maximum benefits – check here
Do you know whether you have been accumulating HDFC credit card reward points? Exciting benefits such as travel discounts, cashback, and retail vouchers can be availed of with these points. Here’s a…
Personal loan: How an impressive set of documents can help you get loan at a lower interest rate?
If you are planning to raise a personal loan then the bank would invariably ask you to submit several documents (unless it is a pre-approved loan) such as your salary slips, your…
Plan to buy a house? Here are essential terms to know before borrowing home loan
Buying a home is one of the crucial decisions of life, and it requires years of planning and investment. While many rely on investments to buy their dream home, others borrow money…
These 5 credit cards give cashback when you buy gadgets online
If you are a credit card user and planning to buy an electronic gadget some time soon, it is rational to check whether the card offers any cashback on the purchase of…
How to check if you have a pre-approved consumer durable loan offer
How can I check if I’m pre-approved for a consumer durable loan, and does it save time in the application process? -Name withheld on request Pre-approved consumer durable loans offer a quick…
Mutual funds: Are flexi cap schemes the right choice for investors amid market volatility?
Thanks to the current volatility, retail investors are increasingly jittery about investing directly in the stock market. With benchmark indices already lower by 10 per cent from their all-time high, there are…
Investors in this government-guaranteed bond have been left high and dry
That’s not all. While you are waiting for your funds, you learn that some other investors in the same bond got their money back in full and on time. This is what…
EPFO extends deadline for UAN activation, linking bank account to Aadhaar for ELI scheme benefits to Jan 15
The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has extended the deadline for UAN activation and seeding of bank accounts to Aadhaar to avail the benefits under the ELI (Employment Linked Incentive) scheme to…
How to address India’s falling household savings
Savings have long been the backbone of financial stability in Indian households. Deeply ingrained in the nation’s ethos, the act of saving has traditionally ensured resources for future uncertainties, children’s education, and…
How freelancers can avoid hidden fees and maximise their earnings
The freelance economy in India has witnessed extraordinary growth, transforming from a niche working arrangement into a mainstream career choice. With more than 15 million active freelancers and an industry projected to…
How to choose the right tenure for your rental agreement
Bhansali prefers an 11-month rental agreement as it doesn’t need to be registered. “It helps to save registration costs, as well as the hassles of making an agreement. If you make a…
Higher Pension: Employers must submit wage details by January 2025 to get benefits
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) provides an online facility for submitting wage details by employers for pensions on higher wages. The EPFO has extended the date to submit the wage details…
Beware credit card card holders! There is bad news for you in this Supreme Court ruling
In a verdict that will impact lakhs of credit card holders in India, the Supreme Court on December 20 overturned a 2008 National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) judgment capping credit card…
Personal Loan: Is moratorium a boon or a bane? Find out how it affects your EMI and interest payments
Borrowers who find it difficult to repay personal loans can explore the prospect of a moratorium, a temporary period during which they are not supposed to make any payment. It is noteworthy…
A few lesser-known hacks to save nearly 60% on your next holiday travel
The Christmas and New Year holidays are a time to relax and explore new destinations. Many travellers use the year-end holiday season to visit their favourite destinations. Exploring new destinations comes at…
How to plan your retirement with a SWP
In India, healthy life expectancy at birth improved by 4.02 years from 54.1 years in 2000 to 58.1 years in 2021, according to statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO). As average…
Should a 75-year-old port a health plan if coverage is low?
We are a 75-year-old couple holding a mediclaim policy of ₹4.5 lakh from a PSU insurer. The coverage has remained unchanged for the last 10 years and has been in continuation for…
How to build a ₹5 crore retirement corpus with ₹1.5 lakh monthly salary
-Name withheld on request Firstly, it is great to hear that your cousin has successfully paid off their home loan at the age of 35 and has begun investing 30% ( ₹45,000…
Stress test: Have small cap mutual funds become safer for retail investors to invest?
The latest stress test ofmutual funds reveals that the mid cap schemes will take as long as 32-34 days to liquidate 50 percent of their portfolio. At the same time, small cap…
Lost track of mutual fund units? Sebi moots MITRA to help investors reclaim inactive MF folios
Capital market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has proposed a platform to give relief to those investors who have lost track of their mutual fund investment. By releasing a…
Low salary? Here are 6 banks that offer personal loans you can qualify for
Personal loans are a popular choice for people looking for quick cash to cover their finances or if they are facing any sudden emergency. These loans offer quick loan disbursement as well…
Delhi Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana: Women to get ₹1,000 a month, says CM Atishi; check eligibility, other details
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi recently announced the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana that will provide financial aid for women. The scheme aims to provide monthly financial assistance of ₹1,000 to women above 18…
Best Mutual Funds 2024: THESE large cap, mid cap, small cap schemes beat the benchmark index in past 1 year
If you are planning to invest in a mutual fund, then it is recommended to examine the past returns of that scheme vis-a-vis other schemes in the same category. The past returns…
Make your investments more tax-efficient with these debt-oriented funds
Since April 2023, fresh investments in the growth option of debt mutual funds have been taxable at the marginal income tax rate for short-term capital gains (STCG). For most investors, this is…
ITR advance tax deadline today: Who all should pay these taxes? All you need to know
As the third installment of advance tax is due on December 15, taxpayers are reminded of the importance of adhering to this deadline to stay compliant and avoid penalties. Advance tax, often…
ITR advance tax deadline on December 15: What is it? How to pay tax before due date? Here’s all you need to know
ITR Advance Tax: The deadline for the third instalment of advance tax is December 15, 2024. Taxpayers must pay the advance tax before the due date to avoid penalty. What is advance…
Income tax news: How the ESOPs are taxed in India?
My employer offered me an ESOP two years ago when I joined the company. I will receive these shares in January 2025. I work for an unlisted company, and a listed company…
Top 4 credit cards for saving big on IRCTC railway tickets
Credit cards have become a popular choice amongst travellers as they provide great deals and exclusive discounts so that you can have a luxurious vacation while avoiding a hole in your pocket!…
Marriott Bonvoy Hotel Loyalty Program: How to maximise benefits with credit card reward points?
Marriott International is one of the biggest hotel chains in India and across the globe. It has 8,900+ properties under 30+ brands spread across 141 countries. With this vast network, it caters…
Mastering the art of investing: Build a portfolio that lasts
Investing wisely doesn’t require a crystal ball or insider secrets; it thrives on time-tested principles and disciplined execution. Whether you’re building your portfolio for 2025 or decades beyond, the fundamentals remain consistent….
Top 4 credit cards that let you stay at luxury hotels for free
Credit cards are no longer just a luxury but have aligned with our day to day spending habits. With the perks offered by credit cards, you can get access to exclusive discounts…
How can NRIs ensure their wills are valid in both India and the UK?
I am a Hindu non-resident Indian (NRI) based in the UK, living with my husband. We have no children, and the rest of our family and relatives reside in India. My husband…
Motilal Oswal offers zero-expense for first year on new arbitrage fund
Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund has launched a new arbitrage fund with a unique zero-expense offer for the first year. The New Fund Offer (NFO) is open for subscription from 16-19 December. This…
Where should a 66-year-old invest with a five-year horizon?
My 66-year-old aunt, who is still working at a private school, received ₹18 lakh last year from the sale of our ancestral property. She doesn’t need this amount for three to five…
Personal loan eligibility: How does having a co-borrower affect your chances?
Although applying for a personal loan might seem like a pretty big financial decision, having a co-borrower with you could make the process go easier. Let’s see how adding a co-borrower to…
Is your credit card data safe online? Here are 5 ways to protect it
Since the rise of digital payments, protecting credit card information in transactions is much more important than before. Security risks, that include phishing, bullying, hacking attacks and data losses, are real threats…
Managing multiple credit cards? Here are 10 essential tips you need
A credit card is considered one of the most convenient financial tools for making emergency payments. It allows you to purchase an item when needed and pay for it later and provides…
What proposed banking law amendments mean for you
The bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on 3 December, says that nominees are only custodians and safekeepers representing the beneficiaries (if there is a testamentary document, e.g., Will/Trust deed) and heirs…
How can tenants of NRIs apply for TDS reduction?
Under what circumstances a tenant whose landlord is a non-resident Indian (NRI) can apply for a reduction in tax deducted at source (TDS) on rent and what are the documents needed to…
Yes Bank’s new credit card rules: How the December 2024 changes affect you
In the last few months, some banks have made changes to their credit card reward program and introduced or increased fees for some services. In September 2024, HDFC Bank made changes to…
If you have more than one Universal Account Number for EPF, do this now
The Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) allows individuals to only have one Universal Account Number (UAN). Think of UAN as an umbrella account that can house multiple member IDs. When you switch…
7 best credit cards which offer complimentary access to airport lounges in India and abroad. List here
If you are a travel freak, you would naturally be spending a lot of time at airports. Often times, you would reach there before time, thus having to wait at the terminal…
Credit Lines on UPI: RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das says small finance banks to now offer facility
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das, during the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting announcement on December 6, said the bank’s facility of providing credit lines through Unified Payments Interface (UPI)…
Are instant-redemption liquid funds better than savings accounts or sweep-in FDs?
Markets regulator Sebi issued a circular on instant redemption in liquid funds in 2017, allowing investors to withdraw up to ₹50,000 or 90% of the money parked in a liquid fund per…
Personal Loan: 5 macroeconomic factors that affect your interest rates
Before getting a personal loan, various factors such as credit history, banks, income, and employment type, among many other factors, may determine interest on your loan. These factors are directly related to…
How a Lucknow-based jeweller streamlined his cluttered portfolio of 27 mutual funds and 9 insurance policies
Over 40% of his annual expenses went into paying the premium for the nine insurance plans, another 40% towards mutual funds, and the remainder for household expenses. Coming from a traditional Lucknow-based…
FD interest rates: 8 banks offer highest interest on 3-year fixed deposits, see details
Before you lock your funds in a fixed deposit, it is vital to compare the interest rates offered by different banks. Typically most banks offer somewhat similar interest on the deposits of the…
This 23-year-old distributor is making mutual funds ‘sahi’ for the hearing impaired
But what about the deaf community? There’s little information on mutual funds that’s available in sign language. In fact, six hearing-impaired people told Mint they’ve never come across a guide to mutual…
Credit score vs credit report: Know the major difference between financial terms
Credit reports and scores are vital determinants in the contemporary financial world as they determine our prospects. Even though these two phrases are frequently substituted for each other, it is worth noting…
Credit card expiration: Check how to pay your pending dues
Credit cards often serve as a quick and convenient mode of payment for several financial transactions. However, the trouble starts when your credit card expires and debts are still pending. It is…
Retail revolution needed: Five reasons to add fixed income mutual funds in your portfolio
In recent years, the decline in debt mutual fund investors has been alarming. Since 2020, folios in fixed income funds have dropped to 7.1 million from 8.1 million even as equity-oriented fund…
Can an NRI-turned-resident freely repatriate foreign currency non-resident account FD?
When an NRI becomes a resident, can the foreign currency non-resident account FD be freely repatriated without coming under the ambit of the liberalised remittance scheme (LRS)? – Name withheld on request….
Starting December 1, these money-related changes likely to impact your pocket. Check details
A new month has begun and the year 2024 is about to culminate in a span of 31 days. With this, some changes have come into effect, or set to be effective,…
What are the benefits of raising a personal loan over other financing options?
Are you short of funds and exploring different ways of raising money? There are multiple ways to do so such as personal loan, instant loan, credit card loan and loan against an…
EPFO update: Central Board of Trustees meet to decide on proposals — ETF investment increase to 15%? Details here
The Employees Provident Fund Organisation’s Central Board of Trustees is set to meet today, November 30, to decide on various proposals, according to a Business Today report citing sources. Chaired by Union…
Personal loans: Use EMI calculator to check monthly instalments across time durations
When you raise a personal loan, the first thing you want to do is to find out your equated monthly instalment or EMI. This can be computed with the help of a…
Personal loan: 10 key questions to ask yourself before opting for it
If you are suddenly short of funds and do not wish to borrow from friends then one of the options that you can avail is to raise a personal loan. However, before raising…
How is closure of credit card different from the blocking of card?
If you have faced a credit card fraud, the immediate reaction is to call up the banker to get the card blocked. Does it mean that your card has been closed? Well,…
How to manage emotional biases during volatile markets?
Over the years, it has become evident that the most significant challenges in wealth management rarely stem from market complexities or economic uncertainties. Instead, they emerge from the intricate relationship between human…
How to build a corpus of ₹1 cr in six years with an annual income of ₹20L
My husband and I earn ₹20 lakh every year and invest ₹40,000 every month through a systematic investment plan (SIP), which I started two months ago. At present, I have ₹3 lakh…
How to apply for a credit card online and offline? A step-by-step guide
Credit cards provide you a variety of exclusive offers designed specifically according to your lifestyle and needs. From discounts on hotels and flight bookings to great deals on restaurants and premium brands,…
Do you need to change your PAN card under PAN 2.0? All queries answered
The central government has launched the PAN 2.0 project, revising the country’s current permanent account number (PAN) system. The Income Tax Department (ITD) plans to streamline and digitise the existing PAN system…
Credit Card vs Debit Card: Which one should you choose?
Modern credit cards and debit cards are the core of financial life in a fast-paced world. Both are made for convenience and flexibility but are based on fundamentally different concepts. Understanding these…
How to maintain a high credit score: 7 tips for financial stability
Your credit score determines a lot, from low interest on loans to premium credit cards. But with any credit rating, there comes the cost of maintaining it. Keeping a good credit score…
Does your credit card include luggage insurance? Find out here
Travel credit cards come in handy if you are a frequent traveller, as they are specifically designed to provide additional rewards and insurance while travelling. One of the major aspects of travelling…
India’s insurance reforms: A bold transformation, but not without challenges
India’s insurance industry, long seen as an underpenetrated yet promising market, is poised for a major transformation with the government’s proposal to permit 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in insurance companies and…
Which credit card to opt for? Compare them along these 8 key parameters. Check list here
If you are planning to get a credit card sometime soon, it is vital to first carry out the initial research and do an objective comparison between the cards offered by different…
Personal loans: How is a pre-approved loan different from a regular one? See details here
If you fall short of money, then you can avail the option of raising a personal loan from a bank or non-banking financial company (NBFC). Some borrowers, meanwhile, are also offered pre-approved…
Money Lessons from Wicked: The most exciting musical of our times!
Some of us grew up with the fairy tale of The Wizard of Oz (had an uncle play ‘Somewhere over the rainbow’ for us kids), some lucky ones have watched the musical…
Loans against shares spiked on bull run. Is this a good idea to borrow against securities? Experts answer
A number of investors raised personal loans against their shares and mutual funds partly because of the bull run (that has apparently ended with 10 percent correction having taken place). The latest…
Credit card: Three ways in which you must not use it
Credit cards are a simple way to buy something today on a loan, plus it takes just one swipe. But why do banks make it so easy for you to access credit?…
I have achieved 95 per cent of his retirement corpus with 17 years of disciplined investing, says Kartik Sharma
Effective financial planning includes defining financial goals and drafting out an investment plan to meet these goals. This is essential for achieving financial stability and building a strong foundation that lets you…
From Aadhaar-PAN linking to foreign taxation: 5 key income tax services at India International Trade Fair 2024
Visitors to the ongoing International Trade Fair 2024 at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan can use several beneficial Income tax services at the Taxpayers’ Lounge, specifically designed to offer professional support for various tax-related…
Balancing risk and reward: A hybrid approach to retirement savings
Considering your moderate risk appetite as mentioned in your query, your preference towards protecting the downside is natural and we completely understand it. Considering you have 18 years to retirement, which is…
Credit card expiration: What happens when your card expires?
If you rely on a credit card to make most of your financial transactions or you are planning to switch to a credit card for the rewards and cashback it offers, it…
Can a private trust benefit a differently abled child?
How can a private trust benefit a differently abled child? Who should be appointed as a trustee? And how can utilization of the trust’s assets be effectively controlled? Establishing a private trust…
Best Mutual Funds: With benchmark indices on a downhill, these value funds can be your pick this November
While the benchmark indices have declined by over 10 percent in the past one month on account of massive FII outflow to the tune of ₹94,000 crore, investors are getting profoundly jittery over…
Do I need to bring the money I earned abroad when returning to India?
I will be moving back to India in FY25. Do I need to bring the money I earned abroad with me? If yes, will it be taxed? If no, what are the…
New pension scheme for minors: Should you invest in NPS Vatsalya?
NPS Vatsalya is a National Pension System (NPS) contributory new pension scheme for minors. Its goal is to empower kids by establishing the retirement savings habit at a young age. By allowing…
Tax regime shift: Is filing ITR under old regime still valid after default new regime?
I’m working with the Indian Army. Until last year, we received Form 16 under the old tax regime, which included all allowances such as house rent allowance, travel, uniform, etc. However, from…
Income tax implications of property sale and gifted proceeds from legal heirs
My father passed away last year without executing a valid Will, leaving behind my mother, a son, i.e. me and my sister. He had bought a residential house in 2009 which has…
Credit cards: What are the different types of offers that banks give to woo new customers?
Credit card companies typically employ a number of marketing strategies or offers to woo new customers. These strategies or offers are aimed to highlight the benefits of their credit cards, target specific…
Credit cards: What types of credit card insurance are available, are they worth it?
Just like other insurance coverage, credit cards also offer insurance to the card users. A credit card insurance covers a range of eventualities such as travel delay, trip cancellation, credit card shield…
Best Mutual Funds: 10 flexi cap schemes gave over 15% annualised return in the past 3 years. Do you own any?
Before investing in a mutual fund scheme, it is common among investors to examine the past returns. More often than not, these returns are merely indicative, however, they are seen to be setting…
Modern health treatment procedures: How some insurers don’t tell policyholders about exclusions and sub-limits
New Delhi-based Rahul Kumar’s 67-year-old father was diagnosed with liver cancer that needed an advanced palliative treatment called Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE). Kumar’s brother had a corporate policy with a private insurer. However,…
Will my old disease be covered if the cured period is over three years?
My health insurance policy started on 29 June 2022. I went through a treatment for a disease in October 2016. The period between the last medication or treatment and the policy start…
How NRIs can invest in Indian mutual funds
Unlike direct investment in stocks, which involves cumbersome account setups, regulatory complexities, and high costs for Portfolio Investment Scheme (PIS) or Non-PIS demat accounts, mutual funds offer a streamlined and cost-effective alternative….
ITR filing: Deadline to file tax returns for corporates, some taxpayers is November 15; Check penalty and other details
The deadline to file income tax returns (ITR) by corporates and individuals requiring audit for the financial year 2024-25 is November 15, 2024. The deadline was set for October 31, 2024, initially,…
ICICI Bank updates credit card charges: Cardholders need to know THESE changes that take effect from November 15
ICICI Bank announced several updates to its credit card fees, set to begin on November 15, 2024. The changes cover finance charges, late payment fees, and additional transaction fees for education, utilities,…
How social engineering scamsters have weaponized fear of the CBI, ED to defraud victims
What followed was nothing short of a nightmare. Within an hour, the octogenarian received calls from people posing as Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers from Mumbai. They alleged that his Canara…
Sovereign Gold Bond: SGB 2016-17 Series III value increases 160% in 8 yrs, RBI announces final redemption price and date
Investors in the SGB 2016-17 Series III scheme of Sovereign Gold Bond can redeem their assets in November at a 159% higher value along with accumulated interest. SGB 2016-17 Series III scheme…
