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Showing posts from January, 2025

Taxpayer benefits in Budget 2025: New income tax slabs and key rebate adjustments

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 2025-26 Union Budget, focusing on tax relief for the middle class. Key changes include no tax on income up to Rs. 12 lakh and revised tax slabs to increase disposable income and stimulate economic growth. from mint - money

Budget 2025: Is the govt planning to phase out the old regime next week?

Is the govt planning to phase out the old regime? from mint - money

Budget 2025: From 37% in US to 48% in Scotland – these are the maximum income tax rates in other countries

In America, maximum rate on income tax is 37 percent which is levied on income more than $609K, equivalent to ₹5.3 crore in Indian currency. from mint - money

Hybrid mutual funds: What are they and why do they matter in 2025?

Hybrid mutual funds are funds that invest in multiple asset classes. Their investments constitute a collection of equity, debt, gold and even real estate. Hence, ensuring both growth potential and stability making the case for them as solid investment options for 2025. from mint - money

Banks struggle with margin pressure as loan growth slows amid high interest rates: S&P Global

Indian banks and prominent financial institutions are facing margin pressure according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. This is impacting loan growth and margins for the banking sector. from mint - money

Credit Cards vs. Charge Cards: What sets them apart and which is best for you

A charge card can be used like a credit card to pay for goods and services. A charge card has no pre-set limit, and the entire monthly bill must be paid before or by the due date. from mint - money

Credit score under 650? Here are effective ways to raise a personal loan

Regularly checking your credit score is essential as mistakes can impact loan eligibility. A secured credit card can help improve your score over time, enabling better loan options. However, loans might come with higher interest rates for those with lower credit scores. from mint - money

Instant personal loan vs. pre-approved loan: What should you choose? Key points to consider

Instant personal loan is an advance given to a customer by the bank without any delay whereas a pre-approved loan is an existing offer which is given based on a customer's overall profile from mint - money

Personal loan: How can you use an EMI calculator to lower your instalment?

If your personal loan EMI feels high, use an EMI calculator to adjust the loan amount, tenure, or interest rate. This can help you find a more comfortable monthly payment that suits your financial situation. from mint - money

Should you link your credit card to the UPI? Advantages and disadvantages explained

Credit cards provide ease and rewards, while UPI payments are gaining popularity. Utilising UPI with a credit line can enhance payment flexibility and financial management, but may lead to overspending, reliance on one payment method, and missing out on unique card benefits. from mint - money

Tax deduction at source complications and their impact on small bond investors

Small or retail investors often invest in bonds to earn predictable returns. TDS affects them by interrupting cash flow and complicating filing requirements  from mint - money

How to increase your SBI credit card limit in 2025? Here are 2 key ways

Credit cards can assist in emergencies, but they have monetary limits. SBI cardholders can increase their limits through pre-approved offers or requests, but must use credit responsibly to avoid accumulating debt. from mint - money

Credit Cards: How can you maximise your seasonal rewards? Here are 8 smart ways

Credit cards provide opportunities to earn seasonal rewards through strategic spending. Understanding reward programs, leveraging promotions, and making big purchases can maximize benefits during holidays and sales events. Be mindful of time-sensitive offers to enhance cash back and loyalty points. from mint - money

How can you get a small cash loan using Aadhaar card? A step-by-step guide

Small cash loans using Aadhaar cards offer quick borrowing for urgent needs, but require careful consideration of risks. These loans, available from various lenders, depend on salary and credit score, making responsible borrowing essential to avoid debt traps. from mint - money

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana: Complete guide to eligibility, features, and benefits

The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana aims to foster entrepreneurship by providing loans up to ₹ 10 lakh for micro and small businesses. The application process involves submitting personal details and required documents, followed by lender evaluation and fund disbursement upon approval. from mint - money

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

UK's top 100 taxpayers list from The Sunday Times, UK revealed that regulars like Ed Sheeran or JK Rowling were not heading the list this year, according to a news report. Check details on the list of top 100 individuals.  from mint - money

Turning capital gains into your dream home by leveraging the power of gifting

Navigating the complexities of tax exemptions under Section 54F can be tricky, especially for homeowners looking to purchase a new property. from mint - money

Breaking India’s tax litigation gridlock

The backlog of income tax disputes in India has reached alarming levels, with over 74% of the total tax demand under litigation. As the government attempts to streamline processes, experts argue for more innovative solutions like mediation and enhanced support for tax authorities. from mint - money

Centre notifies Unified Pension Scheme for government employees; Check effective date, eligibility and other details

Centre notifies Unified Pension Scheme for government employees; Check effective date, eligibility and other details from mint - money

These mid cap, small cap mutual funds beat the benchmark index in past 3 years. Do you own any?

Mid cap mutual funds refer to the schemes which invest at least 65 per cent in the mid cap stocks. There are 29 mid cap mutual fund schemes with net assets under management (AUMs) amounting to ₹3,99,784 crore. from mint - money

What is IDBI’s Chiranjeevi Super Senior Citizen FD offering up to 8.05% interest?

This private sector bank offers an interest of 7.90 percent per annum on 375-day deposit and 8 percent on 444-day deposit. These rates came into force on Jan 13, 2025 from mint - money

Personal loan eligibility: What are the key gender-specific criteria?

While gender-based loan criteria address specific challenges, they risk reinforcing biases. Personal loans, useful for various purposes, often carry higher interest rates. Awareness of eligibility factors like credit score is vital for securing favorable loan terms. from mint - money

Boost credit card rewards: 5 insider tips for maximum benefit

Credit cards can yield substantial rewards and savings when used wisely, offering benefits like cashback and travel perks. However, mismanagement can lead to high interest rates. Strategic planning and financial discipline are key to maximizing credit card benefits while avoiding common pitfalls. from mint - money

Personal loan approval with a low credit score: Key tips and strategies

Applying for personal loans in India is possible even with bad credit, but it may involve higher interest rates and stricter terms. Knowing your credit score and exploring options like secured loans or co-applicants can improve chances of approval. from mint - money

How to easily activate your Axis Bank credit card? Here are 4 key ways

Axis Bank offers credit cards with rewards on purchases and everyday spending. Activating the card is easy. However, users should be cautious of spending habits to avoid debt and scams, ensuring secure transactions and maintaining a good credit score. from mint - money

Nithin Kamath raises alarm on rising debt from personal loans & credit cards: How to use them wisely? Check few tips

Zerodha's Nithin Kamath discusses the surge in personal loans and credit card usage in India, pointing out the associated risks of over-borrowing and rising defaults. He emphasizes the need to manage debts wisely and prioritize paying off high-interest loans. from mint - money

UPI on credit card: How can you activate it on your smartphone?

To activate UPI on credit cards, you need to first download BHIM app from Playstore. Following this, you have to complete the registration and select credit card as on option from mint - money

What is an instant credit card? Key features explained

Credit cards: As soon as you apply for an instant credit card, the bank carries out a soft credit check before giving an immediate approval. The card recipient, thereafter, can start using the credit digitally. from mint - money

Personal loans: As bad debts spike, stocks of private banks slide

Personal loans: Stock prices of private banks are falling amid rising bad beds, particularly in personal loans and micro-credit sectors. RBL Bank & Axis Bank reported increased slippages, while Kotak Mahindra Bank's stock rose despite caution on loan quality. from mint - money

Govt debunks claims of RBI prohibiting use of black ink on cheques | What are the specifications

The government clarified that the RBI has not prohibited black ink on cheques, countering social media claims. The RBI has not specified ink colors for cheques, confirming that black ink is acceptable. from mint - money

Budget 2025: FM Nirmala Sitharaman may propose new Income Tax Act. Key changes to expect

The upcoming Budget 2025 may introduce a new Income Tax Act, as announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. from mint - money

Personal Loan Lifecycle: Key tips for smooth application, approval, and repayment

Personal loans can help with immediate financial needs but require understanding their life cycle for responsible management. Key stages include planning, application, approval, disbursement, repayment, and closure, each important for successful loan handling and credit improvement. from mint - money

Flexi-cap funds are an excellent choice for investors, says Varun Goel of Mirae Mutual Fund

Mutual Funds: Varun Goel of Mirae Asset believes Budget 2025 will likely see no significant changes. He highlights a positive outlook for IT and pharmaceuticals, and suggests that both active and passive funds serve essential roles in investor portfolios amid market consolidation. from mint - money

Can you foreclose a personal loan, and what are the charges involved?

Personal loan: When you prepay the loan, you can save yourself from interest burden. Although prepayment leads to some additional cost, this is one time payment and may be lower than the total interest payable in future. from mint - money

Your guide to investing in the US and global stocks through the Liberalized Remittance Scheme

Under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme, Indian residents are allowed to remit up to $250,000 annually. Platforms like Vested Finance, INDmoney, and Appreciate have leveraged this provision to simplify US stock and ETF investments. from mint - money

The wealth effect: How perceived prosperity drives spending—and how to stay in control

As rising asset prices create a sense of financial well-being, many fall prey to the psychological trap of over-spending. But by adopting strategies to stay grounded, we can harness the wealth effect without letting it derail long-term financial health. from mint - money

Can I add the cost of furnishing the house to its cost of acquisition at the time of selling?

Planning to sell your house? Certain furnishing and interior expenses may help reduce your taxable capital gains, provided they qualify as cost of improvement. from mint - money

New EPFO feature! Members can change personal details without employer approval

Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) launched a new facility on January 18, allowing members to change personal details without employer approval. from mint - money

Santosh Kamath of Franklin Templeton MF is back with a new credit alternative investment fund

The AIF will only lend to financial services companies and is targeting an internal rate of return of 11% to 14%. from mint - money

New Tax Regime: Why should you still opt for tax-saving instruments such as PPF, NPS, NSC?

Income Tax: The new tax regime has made traditional tax-saving investments like PPF and NSC less appealing, encouraging diversification into higher-return options. However, some experts still consider these instruments relevant for conservative strategies. from mint - money

High FD rates: THESE 10 banks offer over 8% interest on fixed deposits | Check latest rates here

Fixed deposits are ideal for risk-averse investors, with some banks offering over 8% interest. Northeast Small Bank tops the list at 9%.  from mint - money

3 things you can do to get personal loan at the lowest interest rate

Personal loan: Here we give three key tips which can help you grab a good personal loan deal – improve credit score, opt for applying for a loan over a pre-approved offer on credit card, and work with a reputable employer from mint - money

How to secure a ₹50,000 loan using your PAN card – A simple guide

Personal loans can provide financial relief but come with risks like high interest and credit damage. It's crucial to analyse finances, compare lenders, and choose repayment terms wisely. A PAN card is essential for loan applications in India, serving as a key identifier for credit assessment. from mint - money

How to get a ₹10,000 loan using your Aadhaar card – A complete guide

Aadhaar card-based personal loans provide instant cash with less paperwork. They are available for individuals with stable income and good credit history. Borrowers should compare lenders to find the best rates and ensure timely repayments to maintain a good credit score. from mint - money

How business owners should ringfence their personal wealth to avoid market downturns and unforeseen setbacks

Lack of asset segregation can leave entrepreneurs financially vulnerable .Through disciplined financial practices, Indian business owners can fortify their wealth and ensure long-term stability from mint - money

IDFC FIRST WOW! vs. ICICI Bank Instant Platinum: Which is a better FD-based secured credit card?

The FIRST WOW! Credit Card offers 4X reward points, interest-free ATM cash withdrawals up to 45 days, and a zero-forex conversion fee. The ICICI Bank Instant Platinum Credit Card offers two reward points for every Rs. 100 spent and is issued lifetime-free. from mint - money

How to get a 2 lakh loan using your Aadhaar card in 2025? A step-by-step guide

Personal loans using Aadhaar cards enable easy access to funds with simplified documentation and faster processing. They are available to salaried and self-employed individuals, though borrowers should consider interest rates and their financial situation before applying. from mint - money

Budget 2025: Simplified capital gains tax, enhanced benefits on investors' budget wish list

Budget 2024 significantly changed capital gains tax, eliminating indexation benefits and raising rates. Experts expect minor adjustments in the next budget, with ongoing demands for rationalization aimed at benefiting long-term investors and aligning tax rules across asset classes from mint - money

How to maximise your income tax savings? Key deductions under the old tax regime explained

To save taxes under the old income tax regime, individuals can invest up to ₹1.5 lakh in specified instruments under Section 80C. Additional benefits include health insurance and home loan interest deductions from mint - money

Compounding: ₹1 lakh investment in this mutual fund would have swelled to over ₹4 crore in 29 years; check how

Tata Mid Cap Growth Fund: This mutual fund scheme has shown a CAGR of 13% to 23% in 30 years. Investing consistently allows for compounding returns, with a ₹1 lakh investment potentially growing to crores in established funds. from mint - money

Top 6 banks offering personal loans for students in 2025 – check interest rates here

Student personal loans provide quick financial assistance for education and related costs without requiring collateral. While they offer flexibility, students should be cautious of higher interest rates and ensure they can manage repayments alongside their guarantor's financial situation. from mint - money

Credit cards: 3 Kotak Mahindra Bank cards offer discounts, reward points on shopping

Here we list out the key features and discounts offered by three major credit cards offered by Kotak Mahindra Bank from mint - money

Personal loan: 6 key reasons for which you could consider taking a loan

Personal loan: When there is a wedding at home and one falls short of funds, one can rely on personal loan. One, obviously, can not postpone the wedding. The shortfall in funds can – therefore – be met via a personal loan. from mint - money

Remote worker or a retiree? Thailand has long-term residency options for you

Thailand recently launched a bunch of long-term residency options, including for remote workers and retirees.  from mint - money

Budget 2025: The NRI’s wish list

Experts from EY India outline changes the government could introduce in the Union Budget for 2025-26 to strengthen contribution from NRIs to India’s economic landscape. from mint - money

Are you a senior citizen? Don't miss out on these special fixed deposit (FD) schemes by SBI, IDBI, Indian Bank & others.

Investors seeking consistent long-term returns often choose fixed deposits (FDs). Major banks like SBI and IDBI offer special FD schemes with varying interest rates for general and senior citizens, available until March 31, 2025. from mint - money

MUST check in ITR filing! These cash transactions may lead to 100% income tax penalty

The Income Tax Department urges individuals to avoid cash transactions. For violations, penalties can reach 100% of the transaction value from mint - money

Sonu Sood’s Fateh: How this film's action and money lessons are a mixed bag

In the film Fateh, Sonu Sood plays a hero tackling a loan scam in Punjab, but the plot is slow and unoriginal. Despite his efforts, the film fails to deliver impactful action or compelling performances, leaving audiences wishing for more excitement and substance. from mint - money

Budget 2025: Five income tax changes that you can expect in Nirmala Sitharaman's speech

As Budget 2025 approaches, potential income tax reforms for salaried individuals may include changes to tax slabs. Experts suggest raising Section 80C limits. from mint - money

Mutual Funds vs PPF: You won't believe who's winning over Indian investors

Despite mutual funds offering higher long-term returns, PPF attracts three times more investments due to its government backing and safety. In FY24, PPFs received ₹7.18 lakh crore compared to ₹2.38 lakh crore for mutual funds. Tax benefits further enhance PPF's appeal for conservative investors from mint - money

Is it time to rethink India’s market cap classifications?

With thresholds rising sharply, expanding largecap and midcap categories could bring more flexibility to a rapidly growing market. from mint - money

Mahakumbh Mela 2025: First-of-its-Kind Insurance launched for devotees by PhonePe and ICICI Lombard. Details here

Ahead of MahaKumbh Mela 2025, PhonePe and ICICI Lombard launched a unique insurance policy for devotees. Offered in two plans, it covers hospitalization, trip cancellations, and more.  from mint - money

GST portal faces technical issues; taxpayers struggle as GST Network seeks extension for December filing deadline

GST Network wrote on X handle that it has sent an incident report to CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Tax) to consider an extension of the deadline, which is set to expire on Saturday. from mint - money

Personal Loan: Why should small business owners include it in their financial planning?

A personal financing plan is vital for small business owners, helping them manage unexpected expenses and focus on growth. While personal loans offer flexibility and quick access to funds, they come with risks such as higher interest rates, requiring careful consideration. from mint - money

HDFC personal loan for ₹10 lakh: Eligibility, interest rates and application process explained

HDFC Bank's personal loans use a lowering balance approach for interest calculations. Rates start at 10.85%, with a repayment period of one to five years. It's crucial to understand terms and compare offers from different lenders before applying. from mint - money

Income tax slab for AY 2025-26: Which is better, the old tax regime or the new tax regime?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2024 modified income tax slabs, favouring the new tax regime. The old regime, with its deductions and exemptions, could still be advantageous for taxpayers depending on their financial situation. from mint - money

Credit score: 6 key ways to improve your scale of creditworthiness

Credit score: Some of the fundamental ways entail maintaining a healthy credit lifestyle by paying your credit card bills on time, keeping credit card utilisation below 30 percent and limiting your hard credit inquiries. from mint - money

THESE two cards by Axis Bank and ICICI Bank are well suited for travel freaks

Credit cards: Travel enthusiasts should consider travel-focused credit cards offered by banks like Axis Bank and ICICI Bank. ICICI offers a card with perks such as cash back on bookings, lounge access, and a low forex markup. Axis Bank's card features dining discounts and fuel surcharge waivers. from mint - money

How loan aggregators are transforming the future of lending? Find out

Loan aggregators streamline the borrowing process by connecting borrowers with lenders. They offer personalized recommendations, transparent comparisons, and increased accessibility, enabling users to make informed choices while reducing hard inquiries and potential debt traps. from mint - money

HDFC Bank Personal Loan vs Bike Loan: Which is better for your needs?

HDFC Bank provides personal and two wheeler loans, catering to different needs. Personal loans have lower interest rates starting at 10.85%, while two wheeler loans start at 14.5%. Assess your financial situation before borrowing to avoid unnecessary debt. from mint - money

Top 5 government loan schemes for business owners in 2025

Various government loan schemes like MSME Loan and PMMY help entrepreneurs secure necessary funds for growth and job creation. These programs cater to different business needs, ensuring inclusive economic development while requiring careful consideration of terms and application processes. from mint - money

SBI collateral-free study loan: 10 things to know – eligibility, maximum amount, tax benefits and more

The State Bank of India now offers collateral-free education loans up to 50 lakhs for students studying abroad. The SBI Global Ed-Vantage includes a processing fee of ₹10,000 and an interest rate of 10.15% for loans between ₹7.5 lakh and ₹50 lakh. from mint - money

₹50,000 loan with Aadhaar card, no guarantee needed under PM Svanidhi Yojana | How to apply, eligibility & details

The PM Svanidhi Yojana, launched in 2020, aims to support small traders and street vendors impacted by COVID-19 by providing loans up to ₹50,000. An Aadhaar card is required for application, which can be submitted online or at local service centers. from mint - money

What is the process to merge two EPF UANs?

For the merger of the UAN you should select the ‘one member and one EPF account’ on the EPFO website after signing into with the UAN credentials in which the earlier UAN is to be merged. from mint - money

How this 27-year-old is rebuilding her finances in India after a French detour

After covid-19 and medical emergency disrupted her master’s degree in France, this Mumbai girl is using double income from her French tuition classes and marketing job to rebuild family finances from mint - money

All We Imagine As Light: What this Cannes-nominated film can teach us about money and dreams

The film 'All We Imagine As Light' portrays the lives of three women navigating dreams and hardships in a bustling city, garnering critical acclaim including a Palme D’Or nomination. It offers insights on personal struggles, the impact of development, and investment lessons. from mint - money

New UPI features to use in 2025: UPI One World wallet, payment delegation, foreign travel, link WhatsApp &more

UPI is enhancing user experience with new features, including WhatsApp Pay's lifted onboarding limit and upcoming international payment capabilities.  from mint - money

Best Mutual Funds: These are the top small-cap MFs to invest in 2025. Do you own any?

Best Mutual Funds: Small-cap mutual funds are highlighted as promising investments amid bullish markets, with 13 funds outperforming benchmarks over three years from mint - money

Avoid Tax Hassles: Your comprehensive guide to income tax proof submission for 2024-25

The deadline for submitting income tax investment proofs for FY 2024-25 is March 31st. Employees must declare investments at the financial year's start and provide documentation for deductions. Timely submission is crucial to avoid higher tax rates and ensure correct refunds from mint - money

EPFO withdrawal from ATM to become a reality soon. Here's how it will work

EPFO members may soon withdraw provident fund money through ATMs, thanks to the upcoming EPFO 3.0 software. Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced this initiative, which aims to streamline access to funds and enhance service delivery for over 7 crore subscribers from mint - money

L&T Finance Personal Loan: 5 essential features you shouldn’t miss

L&T Finance provides personal loans with flexible repayment options from 12 to 72 months, high amounts up to ₹30 lakhs, and attractive interest rates starting at 11%. The loans require no collateral and offer rapid approvals, catering to various financial needs for eligible borrowers. from mint - money

Personal loan: Want to borrow money on low salary? Make note of these 5 points

With a low salary, you could apply for personal loan so long as you have a high credit score and your loan EMI remains under 40 percent of total income from mint - money

Credit Cards: What are the key tips to maximise cashbacks and rewards?

To maximise rewards, you can use some credit cards such as Flipkart Axis Bank which offer cashback/rewards on purchases from their respective platforms. from mint - money

Are you pre-approved for a consumer durable loan? Here's how to check.

Pre-approved loans offer a quick and easy way to finance your purchases. Learn how to check your eligibility, the benefits they offer, and what to consider before applying. from mint - money

The cost of delayed financial action and how to avoid it

Think about that one important financial task which you have been procrastinating for a long time to act upon and what is that first step you can take around it from mint - money