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Showing posts from March, 2025

Top banks charge THESE interest rates on personal loans in April 2025. Check latest rates here

If you are planning to raise a personal loan anytime soon, you are recommended to compare interest rates charged by top banks so that you can choose the best available deal from mint - money

New financial year begins today: Check what changes for you in UPI payments, GST, income tax slabs & more from April 1

As the new financial year begins today, on April 1, 2025, we take a look at what changes for UPI payments, GST rates, income tax slabs, bank balance, TDS, LPG cylinder prices, and more. from mint - money

Who gets the insurance payout—nominee or legal heirs?

While the 2015 amendment aimed to make insurance claims straightforward, conflicting court rulings have left policyholders confused. .Policyholders should take proactive steps to ensure their life insurance aligns with their estate planning, avoiding potential disputes for their loved ones. from mint - money

Mutual funds engineer new category in quest for tax-efficient debt funds

These schemes put 65% of the portfolio in debt and the remaining 35% in arbitrage funds to reap the benefit of 12.5% long-term capital gains tax, as pure debt funds are taxed at your income tax slab rate regardless of the holding period. from mint - money

Can I transfer a gifted amount from the NRO account to a foreign bank account?

Form 15CB is required to remit funds from an NRO account to a foreign bank account. from mint - money

Why lifetime-free credit cards deserve a place in every card portfolio

Lifetime-free credit cards offer entry-level benefits, making them appealing to first-time applicants. They have low eligibility criteria and quicker approval processes, serving as a useful tool for building credit scores and financial inclusion, especially in tier-2 and rural areas. from mint - money

How to keep your broking account ‘active’

Lack of activity for 24 months makes an account dormant, preventing fresh buy and sell orders till the re-KYC process is completed. 

 from mint - money

Income Tax Deadline! Last 2 days to invest in tax-saving instruments for FY 25. Check details here

There are multiple tax-saving options available for taxpayers. These include PPF (Public Provident Fund), NSC (National Savings Certificate), NPS (National Pension System), SSY (Sukanya Samridhi Yojana) and KVP (Kisan Vikas Patra). from mint - money

Personal loan in a hurry? Beware of THESE 7 points before you jump the gun

If you are contemplating taking out a personal loan in a hurry, it is recommended to be careful about a range of factors. We list out some of them here from mint - money

What are the hidden costs involved in lifetime free credit cards? 6 key points to know

Despite being a lifetime free card, there are several costs involved which include high interest rates, overlimit fee, forex markup charge and low activity fee, among others from mint - money

What amount must be invested in a residential house to claim an exemption for long-term capital gains?

Only long-term capital gains must be reinvested when selling a residential house to claim tax exemption under Section 54. In contrast, Section 54F requires the entire sale proceeds to be invested for exemptions, which applies to non-residential properties from mint - money

Personal loan balance transfer: How it works and when to consider it

A personal loan balance transfer can offer benefits like interest savings, longer tenure, higher loan amount, better customer service, etc. The balance transfer decision depends on net interest savings after factoring in fees. from mint - money

How to convert RBL Bank credit card payments into EMIs with flexible tenure and low interest rates | Step-by-step guide

Convert your RBL Bank credit card transactions into EMIs with flexible tenure options from 3 months to 24 months and competitive interest rates starting at 12% to 13% per annum. Enjoy easy EMI conversion through mobile apps, WhatsApp, and customer care support. from mint - money

7 critical RISKS of being a loan guarantor in India | All you should know to ensure your credit score, finances are safe

Becoming a loan guarantor carries significant financial and legal risks, including credit score damage, legal action, and asset seizure. Understanding these seven key risks before committing can help protect your finances, integrity and emotional well-being. from mint - money

How switching MFs to dividend option to book unrealised loss can reduce your tax bill

Are you one of the several investors sitting on losses this year? Are you bullish on the mutual fund that is performing poorly and do not want to stop investing in it? Here is what you can do from mint - money

Transforming innovators growth platform: India’s path to escaping the middle-income trap

The World Development Report 2024 indicates that India risks stagnation in productivity, hindering its transition to high-income status. The innovators growth platform aims to support tech firms but faces challenges, limiting its effectiveness compared to China and Hong Kong markets. from mint - money

Credit card wars: Will ICICI unseat HDFC Infinia with Emerald Private Metal?

ICICI Bank’s iShop platform is offering premium cardholders accelerated rewards. But without a strong transfer partner ecosystem, can it really shake up the premium card hierarchy? from mint - money

Does delaying your property sale to April give you more time for tax payment?

Sold a property but receiving payments in instalments? Know when your capital gains tax is due and how sale timing impacts your advance tax liability. from mint - money

The wealth trap: Why more money doesn’t always mean more happiness

The relentless pursuit of money can lead to a life spent accumulating rather than living. Real success lies in striking a balance—using wealth to create happiness, not just more wealth. from mint - money

Only 2% of finfluencers are Sebi-registered. Can you trust the rest?

Social media is the new stock market advisor, but with only 2% Sebi-registered finfluencers, how much of their advice is credible—and how much is just paid promotion? from mint - money

IndusInd Bank EazyDiner Credit Card: Is it the best dining credit card? Find out

The IndusInd Bank EazyDiner Credit Card provides benefits like a 25% discount on restaurant bills, complimentary domestic airport lounge access, two free movie tickets per month, reward points, etc. The card provides a complete lifestyle benefits package with food, movies, and travel benefits. from mint - money

Your Questions Answered: What are the benefits and risks of commodity mutual funds for my investments?

Investing in commodity mutual funds provides benefits such as diversification, inflation protection, and access to global growth. However, potential risks like market volatility and regulatory changes require careful consideration of the fund's strategy and performance before investing. from mint - money

Personal loan co-applicant: Can it increase your chances of getting a personal loan?

A co-applicant with a good credit score, stable job, decent monthly income, lower DTI ratio, etc., can increase your chances of getting a personal loan. from mint - money

Centre approves ₹1,500 crore incentive for UPI transactions: What is it? Who will benefit? All you need to know

The UPI incentive extension is applicable to transactions of up to ₹2,000 for small merchants. Here is everything you need to know about the extension of the ₹1,500 crore incentive to promote UPI transactions. from mint - money

How MSMEs can access loans up to ₹1 crore without collateral—A complete guide

Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can now access loans up to ₹1 crore without collateral. The program aims to foster economic growth and innovation while allowing businesses to manage working capital and invest in infrastructure. from mint - money

Credit score: Hard inquiry vs soft inquiry – 5 key differences explained

Credit inquiries in India are of two types: Hard and Soft. A hard inquiry occurs when a lender checks your credit for a loan, lowering your score by 5–10 points and staying for 2 years. A soft inquiry happens during self-checks or pre-approvals, with no score impact. from mint - money

Stanley Druckenmiller’s lessons for investors: Passion, risk-taking, and continuous learning

Stanley Druckenmiller, widely regarded as one of the finest investing minds of all time, has created a legacy that inspires investors worldwide. With an estimated net worth of $6.9 billion, as reported by Forbes. from mint - money

Why the US market may no longer be your best global bet

With US equities facing turbulence due to tariff uncertainties, fading consumer confidence, and stretched valuations, Indian investors must rethink their global diversification strategy. from mint - money

Should I invest in multiple schemes of the same mutual fund category?

A 35-year-old investor is encouraged to diversify their mutual funds, limiting small-cap investments. Recommended asset allocation includes 40% large-cap, 30% mid-cap, and 30% small-cap, totaling 65% equity based on age from mint - money

How to activate your SBI credit card and how to set up an auto pay? A step-by-step guide

We explain the process – through a step-by-step guide – to activate an SBI credit card, and also to set up an auto pay of bill payments from mint - money

Personal loans: Borrowers must know THESE RBI's guidelines to get a fair deal from the bank

Personal loans: Banking regulator released a set of guidelines early this year, offering relief to borrowers from mint - money

Gen Z Is Taking ‘Micro-Retirement.’ Don't Laugh.

Young workers have rebranded sabbaticals — and they may be onto something. from mint - money

As markets stay volatile, investors can explore these mutual fund categories. Check list here

Mutual funds: With Nifty50 already down by nearly 14 percent from its peak of 26,277 it hit in September last year, retail investors are getting too finicky with time from mint - money

Wealth Creation: Investing ₹1 lakh in this mutual fund at its launch in 2007 would have grown to ₹11 lakh; check how

Magic of compounding: If someone had invested ₹one lakh in Invesco India Contra Fund, the investment would have grown to ₹ 11.57 lakh by now. We explain how from mint - money

Deadline Alert! Last two weeks left to invest in tax-saving instruments. 5 key points to know

To be able to claim income tax deduction for FY 2024-25, taxpayers must invest in a tax saving scheme given in the relevant sections of Income Tax Act prior to March 31 from mint - money

These 6 post office savings schemes offer income tax deductions under section 80C

Income Tax: Investors are entitled to claim tax deduction under section 80C by investing in one or more of these small savings schemes such as PPF, NSC, KVP, SSY, SCSS from mint - money

Income Tax: These deadlines expire before March 31. Check list here

Income Tax: Investors must invest before March 31 to be able to claim tax deduction for the financial year 2024-25. from mint - money

High FD rates: Get over 9% on fixed deposits | Latest interest for small finance banks

Several small finance banks in India offer competitive FD rates, with Unity Small Finance Bank leading at 9.1% for senior citizens. Equitas, AU, and Ujjivan provide 8.25% for specific tenures, while North East Small Finance Bank offers 9% for FDs lasting 18 months. from mint - money

The state where Ponzi schemes thrive, but mutual funds barely exist

Even as mutual funds gain traction across India, one region remains dominated by unregulated schemes. A lack of financial literacy, local outreach, and physical infrastructure has left investors vulnerable—many learning the risks too late. from mint - money

My Melbourne: How four immigrant tales teach powerful money lessons

My Melbourne: Young women are gaining financial independence by managing their own bank accounts and making informed decisions. This anthology reflects the multicultural essence of Melbourne, exploring themes of loss, immigration, and personal growth through compelling stories. from mint - money

Holi 2025: Five key money lessons you can learn from the festival of colours

Holi 2025: The festival of colours teaches us a range of money lessons which include diversification and important of research that investors are meant to carry out. from mint - money

HSBC Bank launches TravelOne Credit Card: Should travel geeks consider it?

TravelOne Credit Card: The card offers travel benefits like discounts on travel bookings, accelerated reward points on travel aggregators, complimentary airport lounge access, reward points transfer to airline and hotel partners, etc. from mint - money

How reinsurers can help bridge India's huge protection gap

The significant disparity between economic losses and insured losses from natural disasters highlights a critical gap in coverage, one that reinsurers can help reduce by shouldering some of the risk insurance companies bear. from mint - money

Your Questions Answered: What is the difference between Nifty 100 index and Nifty 100 quality 30 index?

The Nifty100 Quality 30 index tracks the top 30 companies within the Nifty 100 based on quality scores derived from ROE, D/E ratio, and EPS growth, providing investors with exposure to high-quality firms and long-term growth potential. from mint - money

7 common credit report errors that you must watch out for

Some common errors in a credit report can include incorrect balance, a closed account is still open, an account is shown delinquent inspite of payment, duplicate entries, inaccurate personal information, incorrect credit enquiries, etc. from mint - money

Loan, SIP, or assets? The best way to fund higher education

The cost of education is rising—is your financial plan keeping up? Here's how to smartly plan top-tier education without compromising financial security. from mint - money

Missed an EMI? Discover what happens to your credit score and how to recover

Missing even a single EMI can immensely impact your credit score in a negative way. Potentially dropping it by 100 points or even more. That is why understanding how to deal with this kind of damage is essential for your financial stability. from mint - money

First credit card? Here’s your ultimate step-by-step guide to getting started

Credit cards are crucial for Indians, offering easy access to credit and helping build a strong credit history. The total number of credit cards in India is projected to grow and reach 200 million by FY28-29, growing at a CAGR of 15% according to a report by PwC. from mint - money

BOBCARD offers special savings on Amazon, MakeMyTrip, and more—Valid till March 31

Credit card: Bank of Baroda's BOBCARD offers exclusive discounts on e-commerce platforms until March 31. Shoppers can access special deals across fashion, travel, and more, with significant savings on credit card purchases. from mint - money

Air India Maharaja Club Bonus: Earn 50% bonus points for transferring credit card rewards—Here’s how

Club Maharaja has partnered with five banks to offer up to 50% bonus Maharaja Points on transferring credit card reward points. The offer is valid up to 31st March 2025 and can provide up to a maximum of one million bonus Maharaja Points. from mint - money

How much it costs to pursue a career in sports in India

Mint speaks to parents and sportspersons to find out how much it costs to train a champion and how rewarding a career in sports could be in the long term in India. from mint - money

Poor credit score: At what level this becomes a cause of concern for loan applicants?

For future loan applications, maintaining a credit score above 700 is essential. Scores below 670 may result in higher interest rates, potential loan rejections, and stricter borrowing conditions. It's beneficial to improve any low scores prior to seeking loans. from mint - money

Want to save big? Discover how to layer credit card offers, coupons, and rewards for maximum benefits

Digital payments and credit cards can lead to significant savings through a technique known as stacking. By combining bank discounts, merchant offers, credit card rewards, and wallet app promotions, consumers can maximize their savings on purchases, dining, and travel. from mint - money

Deadline Alert! Last 3 weeks to invest in tax saving instruments to claim deduction, check details here

Income Tax Deadline: Last three weeks are remaining before the taxpayers can invest to claim income tax deduction such as PPF, SSY, SCSS, NSC, KVP from mint - money

Mutual fund calculator: How to accumulate ₹41 crore with a monthly Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) of ₹15000

Investing in mutual funds is beneficial for long-term wealth creation. With a monthly SIP of ₹15,000 and a 10% annual step-up, investors can accumulate substantial wealth over 35 years. Experts advise starting early and maintaining a diversified portfolio from mint - money

The silent surcharge: Pink tax and how it eats into women's earnings

This invisible yet pervasive price disparity, known as the ‘pink tax’, quietly drains women’s wallets on everything from personal care items to professional services like dry cleaning and healthcare. from mint - money

New TDS, TCS rules 2025: Key changes impacting income taxpayers starting April 1. All you need to know

New TDS, TCS rules 2025: One of the key changes is the increase in TCS on foreign remittances under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), which has risen from 20% to 22% for amounts over ₹7 lakh per year from mint - money

Income Tax department releases latest list of 30 banks for e-pay tax service. Check list here

The two banks which recently added to the list are Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (included on March 5, 2025) and IDFC First Bank which got added on Nov 27, 2024. Another bank which added to the list is Dhanlaxmi Bank on June 26, 2024. from mint - money

FD interest rates: These 7 banks offer highest interest on their 3-year fixed deposits

These seven banks offer highest interest rates on their 3-year fixed deposits. Typically longer the tenure, higher the interest rates on term deposits from mint - money

International women’s day: 4 financial tips every woman should know for smart fund allocation

International Women's Day 2025 is just as good a day as any to provide strength to women and enable them to be the torchbearers of their own financial destiny. This can be done through proper planning, effective money management and thoughtful fund allocation. from mint - money

Women's Day 2025: Is the BOB Tiara Credit Card the perfect gift for yourself?

The card provides 5X accelerated reward points on specific categories, two complimentary health packages, unlimited complimentary domestic airport lounge access, complimentary annual memberships for Amazon Prime and Gaana Plus, and a quarterly BOGO offer on movies. from mint - money

Dividend yield funds: Why should you invest in them? Key advantages explained

Dividend yield funds refer to mutual funds that invest predominantly in dividend-paying stocks, with at least 65 per cent in stocks. from mint - money

Your Questions Answered: How are multi-asset allocation funds different from equity funds?

Multi-asset allocation funds suit long-term investors seeking income and capital growth. Their dynamic asset allocation adjusts to market changes, making them ideal for retirement or education funding. from mint - money

Beyond just saving: How can women secure, invest, and create long-term wealth?

More women are investing, but are they truly building wealth? While stock market participation is rising, financial hurdles like low savings, debt, and investment confusion continue to slow progress. from mint - money

Personal loan: When can you claim tax benefits against interest paid on loan?

Personal loans usually do not give any income tax benefits unless a few exceptions which include spending money on house renovation and business expenses. from mint - money

What not to do with a personal loan: 6 key pitfalls to avoid

Things you should not do with a personal loan include not comparing personal loan offers, using them for unnecessary purchases, taking more than required, delaying/defaulting on EMI, extending the tenure unnecessarily, taking multiple personal loans, etc. from mint - money

Balance transfer credit cards: What are the key benefits and how they work?

Balance transfer credit cards can help you manage and eliminate credit card debt by allowing transfers to cards with lower interest rates. This reduces interest payments, accelerates debt repayment, and offers potential savings from mint - money

Can banks outsmart AI-driven fraud before it’s too late?

The fight against financial fraud is escalating as criminals use deepfakes, synthetic identities, and fake records to bypass security. With soaring losses, banks must rethink fraud detection strategies fast. from mint - money

New income tax bill provisions grant wide search powers to authorities, make privacy of taxpayers vulnerable

The Income-Tax Bill, 2025, grants tax authorities extensive powers to search digital spaces for tax evasion. Concerns arise over data privacy, potential misuse, and lack of safeguards for taxpayers' information amid increasing government scrutiny. from mint - money

Are credit card reward points really worth it? Here's what you need to know

Cardholders should grasp the value of credit card rewards to avoid overspending and debt. A recent report shows a drop in credit card spending in India, underlining the necessity for users to keep an eye on their credit profiles and manage their spending habits responsibly. from mint - money

Is a personal loan top-up right for you? Benefits and eligibility explained

A personal loan top-up has benefits like low to no documentation, attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, faster approval and disbursal, etc. from mint - money

Stocks, MFs, Gold to PPF: 8 top investment options for women on International Women’s Day 2025

International Women's Day, March 8: By exploring investment options such as mutual funds, stocks, gold, and REITs, women can empower themselves towards financial independence and long-term stability. from mint - money

Credit cards: How low mark-up fee can help you save big? An explainer

Credit card users can save considerable amount of money by opting for the card(s) which levy low forex conversion charges or mark-up fee from mint - money

Does your spouse's credit history impact yours? The answer might surprise you

To put it simply, your marriage does not have any impact on your credit score because your marriage status is not kept by credit bureaus such as CRIF High Mark, CIBIL, Equifax, or Experian. Still, your shared money issues that you face with your spouse can break or make your credit health. from mint - money

What is core-satellite investment approach and how it helps grow your portfolio

In choppy market waters, a strong anchor and a sharp sail can make all the difference. While core investments provide stability, satellite investments let you seize high-growth opportunities—striking the perfect balance between risk and reward. from mint - money

Amid gold rally, should you buy gold ETFs over physical variant? 5 key advantages explained

Although gold prices saw their biggest weekly drop of 2.5 percent after eight consecutive weeks of gains, but they still remain higher by 2.2 percent in the month of February. from mint - money

Income Tax Calculator: Here you can assess which tax regime – old or new – is better for you?

Through income tax calculator you can evaluate which regime turns out to be good for you. from mint - money

FD interest rates: These 7 banks offer highest interest on fixed deposits on these tenures

The tenure on which different financial institution offers the highest rate of interest varies from bank to bank. from mint - money

How exemption on long-term capital gains for the sale of agricultural land can be claimed?

To avoid capital gains tax on the sale of urban agricultural land, consider reinvesting in another agricultural land within two years or specified assets. Exemptions under Sections 54B and 54F can apply if conditions are met, including the use of a Capital Gains Account from mint - money

You saved for retirement. Now comes the tricky part: Spending your savings.

Four tactics to make sure you don’t run short in your golden years. from mint - money

Income Tax Deadline: Taxpayers can file an updated return before March 31 for THIS year, check details

Income Tax: Last date for filing an updated income tax return for financial year 2021-22 is March 31, 2025 from mint - money

Best Mutual Funds: These large cap schemes gave highest returns in past 5 years. Do you own any?

Here, we list out the top performing schemes in large cap category based on their past five-year returns. from mint - money

New limits of UPI Lite transactions come into effect on THIS date, check details here

Currently the transaction limit of UPI LITE is ₹500 which will be raised to ₹1,000. Total limit at any point in time has been raised from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000. The new limits are supposed to come into effect immediately from mint - money