FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Livemint Money reports that India’s bond market has outperformed many other nations in recent years, while the equity market has lagged behind. RBI Deputy Governor Poonam Gupta highlighted this performance gap in the central bank’s bulletin and offered observations on the outlook for stocks. For the ordinary saver, the strong bond market suggests that fixed‑income instruments may continue to deliver relatively stable returns compared with equities, which have shown weaker performance. However, Gupta’s comments also hint at potential challenges ahead for the stock market, implying that investors should stay informed about policy signals and market dynamics. While the bulletin does not prescribe specific actions, it underscores the importance of diversifying savings across asset classes to balance risk and return. What to watch: future RBI guidance on equity markets and any policy shifts that could affect bond yields.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The 8th Pay Commission, which reviews salaries and pensions for central government employees, has released its latest schedule of field visits. It will be in Mumbai on 22‑23 October 2026 and in Bengaluru on 7‑8 October 2026. Alongside these two trips, the commission has issued five recent official updates that cover consultant guidelines and additional visits to Jaipur and Chandigarh. For ordinary savers and taxpayers, the announcements signal when new pay scales, allowances or pension formulas may be discussed. Employees can expect clarification on how the commission’s recommendations could affect take‑home pay, while pensioners should watch for any adjustments to monthly benefits. The consultant guidelines often set the framework for how the commission gathers data, which can influence the speed of any future salary revisions. In practical terms, the dates give a timeline for when ministries are likely to finalize recommendations that eventually flow into the next budget. Keeping an eye on the commission’s releases helps households anticipate any changes to disposable income or tax calculations. What to watch: the commission’s final report, expected later this year, for any changes to salary brackets or pension rates.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers has commissioned Larsen & Toubro to revamp its ammonia plant, a project valued at Rs 797 crore aimed at reducing energy consumption.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Nifty index has recently recorded its longest weekly losing streak since the market crash in 2020 triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic. This sustained downturn signals a period of caution for ordinary savers and taxpayers with investments in the stock market.
Two key factors contributing to this trend are a significant 11% weekly plunge in Brent crude oil prices and a hardening of the 10-year bond yield. For the average investor, falling crude prices might seem positive, but combined with rising bond yields, it often indicates broader economic concerns that can make equity markets less attractive. A hardening bond yield suggests that government borrowing costs are rising, which can draw money away from stocks as bonds offer a safer, albeit lower, return.
The market conditions have specifically weighed heavily on insurance stocks. Furthermore, PB Fintech, a prominent player in the financial technology sector, saw its shares crater by 33%. This sharp decline is attributed to fears surrounding potential reforms by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Such reforms could impact the business models and profitability of insurance-related companies, directly affecting investors holding these stocks.
For ordinary savers, this period underscores the importance of diversified portfolios and understanding market volatility. While it's not investment advice, recognizing these trends helps in managing expectations and making informed financial decisions.
What to watch: Further developments in crude oil prices, bond yields, and IRDAI reform announcements.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
For millions of ordinary savers contributing to the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), understanding how final withdrawal interest is calculated is crucial. The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has a clear rule: interest on your final PF settlement is calculated right up to the date the final payment is officially authorised. This is an important detail for members to grasp, as it operates independently of the date you might have initially submitted your claim.
This means that even if there's a delay between your claim submission and the actual authorisation of payment, your funds will continue to accrue interest during that period. The key date for interest accrual is not when you initiate the process, but when the EPFO gives the final green light for your payment.
For EPF members planning a final withdrawal, this system ensures that your savings continue to grow for as long as they are held by the EPFO, right up until the point of official disbursement. It's a mechanism designed to provide clarity and ensure members receive their entitled interest for the full duration their funds are with the organisation. Knowing this detail can help members manage their expectations regarding the final settlement amount.
What to watch: Monitor the authorisation date for your final PF withdrawal.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
While three-year returns help identify top-performing diversified equity mutual funds, they provide an incomplete picture. Performance analysis should also consider alpha to fully understand fund results.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
All scheduled banking operations will be suspended from September 28 to September 30 as a result of a strike organized by the United Financial Bankers Union (UFBU). The three‑day shutdown will affect branch services, cash withdrawals, cheque clearing and electronic fund transfers across the country. To mitigate inconvenience, banks have announced that they will remain open on September 27, offering a full day of services to accommodate customers before the strike commences. Customers are advised to complete essential transactions, such as loan repayments, bill payments and cash deposits, before the closure. The UFBU has stated that the strike is intended to press for better working conditions and policy reforms within the banking sector. While the strike is expected to resume normal operations on October 1, some ancillary services, such as ATMs and online banking platforms, may experience intermittent disruptions. What to watch: any announcements from the UFBU regarding the duration of the strike and its impact on credit availability.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
For ordinary savers and homebuyers, a recent ruling by the Allahabad High Court brings important clarity regarding property delays. The court has stated that accepting possession of a flat does not automatically mean a buyer gives up their right to claim compensation for delays in its handover. This decision is significant for individuals who have purchased properties and faced prolonged waits beyond the agreed-upon delivery dates.
Previously, there might have been an understanding or concern that taking possession of a property implied satisfaction with its delivery, thereby waiving any claims for past delays. However, the High Court's ruling clarifies this ambiguity, affirming that a buyer's right to seek financial redress for a developer's delay is not automatically forfeited simply because they have accepted the keys to their new home.
This means that if you have experienced a significant delay in receiving your flat, and have subsequently taken possession, you may still be entitled to claim interest or other forms of compensation for that period of delay. The ruling empowers homebuyers by ensuring their right to compensation for builder delays remains intact, even after the physical handover of the property. It emphasizes that accepting the property for use does not erase the financial impact of a delayed delivery.
What to watch: Future implications of this ruling on builder-buyer agreements.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
When buying a resale flat with an existing home loan, the buyer's first step should be requesting the seller's latest loan account statement or foreclosure letter to avoid pitfalls.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Indian equity benchmarks, the Sensex and Nifty, concluded Friday's trading session higher, with the Nifty settling above the 23,100 mark. This uptick followed what market observers termed 'value buying,' where investors purchased stocks after a recent sharp decline, perceiving them as more attractively priced.
Beyond domestic buying, broader economic factors played a supportive role. Easing crude oil prices, which typically benefit a net oil-importing nation like India, contributed positively to investor sentiment. A stronger rupee also provided support, potentially making imports cheaper and helping to manage inflationary pressures.
For the ordinary saver or taxpayer, these movements reflect the overall health and sentiment of the economy. When oil prices ease, it can indirectly lead to lower fuel costs and potentially stable prices for goods, benefiting household budgets. A stronger rupee also contributes to this stability. The market saw focused buying in sectors like consumer durables and automobiles, indicating confidence in domestic consumption. Conversely, IT and healthcare stocks experienced declines. While this is not investment advice, understanding these market dynamics offers insight into the economic landscape that can affect savings and financial plans.
What to watch: Continued trends in crude oil prices and currency strength.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Prestige Group has announced the launch of a new residential project named 'Prestige Parklane' in Devanahalli, Bengaluru. This development spans an area of 11.91 acres and carries an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of Rs 1,750 crore.
For an ordinary saver or taxpayer, this announcement signifies new activity in the Bengaluru real estate market. A large-scale project like 'Prestige Parklane' entering the market can have several implications. Firstly, it adds a substantial number of new housing units, potentially increasing the supply of homes in the Devanahalli area. This could influence property prices and rental rates in the surrounding localities over time, depending on demand.
The estimated GDV of Rs 1,750 crore reflects the total revenue potential of the project. For the local economy, such a large investment can generate employment opportunities in construction, sales, and ancillary services. For individuals considering property purchases in Bengaluru, this project represents a new option, particularly for those looking at the Devanahalli region, which is often associated with proximity to the airport and future infrastructure development.
It's important for potential homebuyers to research new developments thoroughly, considering location, developer reputation, and personal financial goals, rather than viewing new launches as inherent investment advice.
What to watch: The project's progress and its impact on local property trends.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Nifty Realty Index has recorded a 0.92% surge, according to Capital Market.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has clarified that the new 0.4% merchant discount rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000 will be borne by merchants, not customers. The rule takes effect on 15 October 2026. For everyday savers and taxpayers, this means that the cost of higher‑value digital payments will not appear as a direct charge on their bank statements. Instead, merchants will need to absorb the fee, which could influence pricing strategies, potentially leading some sellers to adjust product prices or offer discounts to remain competitive. The clarification aims to keep the UPI ecosystem affordable for consumers while shifting the financial responsibility to businesses that benefit from larger transaction volumes. What to watch: whether merchants pass on any portion of the MDR to consumers through price changes.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Indian cable manufacturer Orient Cables has opened the bidding window for its initial public offering. The process started on 25 September 2026 and will remain open until 29 September 2026. During this four‑day period investors can submit orders for shares at the price set by the company and its advisers. For ordinary savers, the IPO represents a chance to buy stock in a company that is tied to the country’s growing digital infrastructure, but participation is optional and limited to those who have a trading account that allows IPO subscriptions. The short bidding window means decisions must be made quickly, and the final allocation of shares will be determined after the close date. Taxpayers should note that any profit from a later sale of the shares will be subject to capital‑gains tax under existing rules. The outcome of the bid will be announced after the closing date, and the shares will begin trading once the company completes the listing process.
What to watch: the final price and allocation results announced after 29 September.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Steamhouse India has been awarded a Rs 311-crore contract to handle the engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and operations of the Common Steam Plant and Co-generation Power Plant at the Bulk Drug Park in Una, Himachal Pradesh.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Welspun Corp's share price has increased by 78% over the last two months and has risen 300% since hitting a 52-week low of ₹709.95 on February 2, 2026.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Indian rupee saw a minor recovery, opening at 95.92 per dollar, as oil prices retreated on hopes of a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Despite this, persistent dollar demand and hawkish Federal Reserve signals continue to weigh on the currency, while benchmark equity indices trade slightly lower.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Analysts at Jefferies have warned that new draft regulations from Irdai could significantly impact the near-term earnings of PB Fintech.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Welspun Corp shares rose 3.84% to Rs 2786.30 after its US subsidiary, Welspun Tubular, secured a Rs 4,000 crore contract to supply HFIW pipes.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
ESDS Software Solution shares fell 5% to Rs 1,757.65 following mixed Q1 FY27 results, as revenue growth was dampened by a sequential drop in profitability.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Savers now have new opportunities to consider international mutual funds, as six such schemes are reopening for fresh subscriptions. These funds had previously been subject to periodic restrictions on overseas investments.
The reopening comes at a time when some of these international schemes have shown strong performance, with five of them delivering double-digit returns over the past year. This impressive track record might understandably make these funds appear attractive to investors looking for growth.
However, before considering an investment, it's important for ordinary savers to conduct thorough due diligence. While past performance can be enticing, it does not guarantee future results. It is crucial to understand the fund's objectives, risks, and expense ratios. Checking your own financial goals and risk tolerance against the fund's profile is also a vital step. Always remember that investing involves risks, and a cautious approach is key.
What to watch: The specific checks and due diligence required before investing in these funds.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Starting October 15, a new charge will apply to certain UPI transactions related to debt collection. Specifically, UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000 for purposes such as loan repayments and the collection of Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) will incur a ₹5 Merchant Discount Rate (MDR).
It is important for ordinary borrowers to understand who bears this charge. The good news is that this ₹5 MDR will be applied on the merchant side, meaning the entity collecting the debt, rather than directly on the borrower. This measure aims to clarify the cost structure for digital debt collection via UPI.
This new charge will be applicable to various forms of debt collection, including standard EMIs, transactions made through UPI AutoPay features, and other credit-linked UPI payments. Borrowers should be aware of this change, although it does not directly impact the amount they pay. The focus remains on the operational costs for lenders and financial institutions utilizing UPI for large-value debt collection.
What to watch: How this charge might influence the adoption and structuring of UPI-based loan repayments by lenders.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Reviewing your coverage, sum insured, healthcare requirements, and premiums can help ensure uninterrupted protection when renewing your health insurance policy.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
To determine adequate coverage and avoid being underinsured, families must evaluate how much financial backing is necessary if the primary breadwinner's income vanishes.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Nifty 50 index recently experienced its steepest single-day decline since July 8, marking a significant downturn for the Indian stock market. This drop pushed the benchmark index to an over five-month low, impacting numerous investors and savers.
The primary drivers behind this market slide appear to be two-fold: the continued rise in global crude oil prices, with Brent crude nearing $105 a barrel, and intensified selling pressure within the financial sector, particularly in banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
For an ordinary saver or taxpayer, this market movement can have several implications. Those with investments in equity mutual funds, pension plans linked to the stock market, or direct stock holdings may see a temporary reduction in the value of their portfolios. Higher oil prices can also lead to increased inflation, potentially affecting household budgets through higher fuel and commodity costs. The decline in financial stocks might signal broader economic concerns, which could indirectly influence lending rates or access to credit.
What to watch: The trajectory of Brent crude prices and the performance of the banking and NBFC sectors.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
A latest MoSPI tourism expenditure survey indicates Indian households’ spending varies by travel purpose, with trips for medical needs and pilgrimages incurring the highest costs, and highlights distinct spending patterns between rural and urban families.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is actively exploring a groundbreaking initiative set to transform digital transactions, particularly for ordinary savers and taxpayers. This involves enabling e-rupee payments even when internet connectivity is unavailable. The central bank is investigating the use of technologies such as Bluetooth and Near Field Communication (NFC) to facilitate these offline transactions.
For the average individual, this development holds significant promise. Imagine being in a remote area, during a power outage, or in a bustling market where mobile data is unreliable. The ability to make digital payments without needing a live internet connection would provide unparalleled convenience and resilience. It aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure financial transactions remain possible in diverse scenarios where online access is a challenge.
This move by the RBI underscores a commitment to making the digital rupee a robust and accessible form of currency for everyone. By leveraging established short-range communication technologies, the initiative seeks to broaden the utility of the e-rupee, making it a more practical option for daily use across the country. It’s about enhancing the reliability and reach of digital money.
What to watch: Further details on the implementation and rollout of offline e-rupee capabilities.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
A Livemint Money guide outlines practical steps for saying no to monetary asks while keeping personal ties intact. It points out that lending without clear terms often leads to unpaid debts, strained relationships and personal stress. The advice centers on establishing firm boundaries, such as stating a clear policy on lending, and suggests delaying responses to give time for thoughtful consideration. Offering alternative solutions—like budgeting help, payment plans, or non‑financial assistance—can preserve goodwill. By communicating openly and consistently, savers protect both their finances and their relationships, reducing the risk of resentment or financial strain. The guidance is framed as informational, not investment advice. What to watch: emerging trends in personal finance education focusing on relational money management.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
IPO-bound CJ Darcl is expanding its operations into a trucker marketplace, alternative fuels, EVs, and warehousing in an effort to sustain its revenue growth momentum.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Insurance stocks jolted after the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) proposed a phased reduction in the expenses of management (EoM) limits for insurers. The regulator’s proposal, disclosed on a Wednesday, aims to curb excessive cost structures by tightening the ceiling on how much insurers can spend on management and distribution expenses. Analysts interpret the move as an effort to protect policyholder interests and improve the sector’s profitability, but the immediate market reaction was negative, with shares of PB Fintech, Max Financial Services and HDFC Life dropping as much as 20 per cent. For ordinary savers, the change could mean insurers may pass on cost efficiencies through lower premium hikes or enhanced policy features over time. Taxpayers are unlikely to feel a direct impact, but the broader push for tighter cost control may influence the pricing of future insurance products. What to watch: IRDAI’s final rulebook release and subsequent earnings reports from the major insurers mentioned.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Indian rupee experienced a sharp decline on Thursday morning, trading at Rs 95.84 per dollar and reaching a low of 95.87. This volatility follows a surge in global oil prices, triggered by rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
For the average saver and taxpayer, this development is significant. A weaker rupee often leads to higher import costs, particularly for crude oil, which can put upward pressure on domestic fuel prices and inflation. Meanwhile, Indian equity markets have reacted negatively; the Nifty 50 dropped nearly 1% to 23,221.80, and the BSE Sensex fell over 600 points to trade near 74,187.70.
Rising U.S. bond yields are also creating pressure, leading to market expectations that the Federal Reserve may implement another interest-rate hike. For individuals, this global economic environment suggests potential volatility in both fuel costs and investment portfolios in the near term.
What to watch: Crude oil price stability and any further impact on domestic inflation and interest rates.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Infomerics Valuation and Rating has upgraded the credit ratings of Steel Exchange India.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Jagsonpal Pharmaceuticals has signed a business transfer agreement to acquire the wellness portfolio of Group Pharmaceuticals via a slump sale.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
IDFC First Bank Ltd shares declined by 0.29% over the past month, while the BSE BANKEX index fell by 2.99% and the SENSEX dropped by 4.36%.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
On a three-to-five-year outlook, the NSE is considered the preferred choice for investors. In Q1FY27, the NSE reported earnings of ₹3,122 crore, more than 3.5 times the ₹873 crore earned by the BSE.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Landmark Cars and OLX India, a division of CarTrade Tech, have formed a partnership to develop an integrated phygital experience for buying and selling pre-owned cars in India.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Indian Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) market has recently experienced significant volatility, leaving many ordinary savers and taxpayers wondering about the implications. A key concern highlighted by experts is that some Indian ETFs have been trading at steep premiums, meaning investors might be paying ₹150 for assets effectively worth only ₹100. This situation arises primarily from a combination of high demand and a limited supply of these specific ETFs.
Such a scenario introduces considerable risks for investors. When an ETF trades at a premium, there's a higher chance of sharp declines if the market corrects, or if the demand-supply imbalance normalises. This could lead to a loss of capital for those who bought at inflated prices. For an ordinary saver, it means vigilance is paramount. Understanding the true underlying value of an ETF, rather than just its market price, becomes crucial.
Instead of rushing into popular but potentially overvalued ETFs, individuals might consider alternative investment avenues or wait for market conditions to stabilise. Consulting with a financial advisor can also provide clarity on navigating such turbulent periods. The recent tumultuous week serves as a stark reminder of the importance of due diligence in investment decisions.
What to watch: The demand-supply dynamics and premium levels of Indian ETFs.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The story of Sinchina Raikar, a 15-year-old Class 10 student from Bengaluru, offers an inspiring look at early financial literacy and strategic investing. Sinchina has reportedly built an investment portfolio valued at ₹13.9 lakh, demonstrating a mature approach to wealth creation at a young age. Her primary goal for these investments is to finance her master's education, highlighting the power of long-term financial planning.
Sinchina employs a specific "GDP method" for selecting mutual funds. This strategy focuses on key principles: identifying funds with strong growth potential, opting for direct plans, and allocating investments towards passive funds. For an ordinary saver or taxpayer, Sinchina's approach underscores several valuable lessons. Firstly, setting clear financial goals, such as funding education, provides strong motivation and direction for investing.
Secondly, understanding and applying specific investment methods, like focusing on growth, direct plans, and passive funds, can lead to disciplined and potentially effective portfolio management. Direct plans often mean lower costs, while passive funds can offer broad market exposure. Her story suggests that with diligent research and a clear strategy, even young individuals can make significant strides towards their financial aspirations.
What to watch: The impact of early financial planning on long-term goals.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
A survey report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta indicates that the majority of US firms receiving or seeking tariff refunds plan to retain the funds as cash, invest in R&D or new capital projects, temporarily lower prices, or provide bonuses to workers and managers.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Indian home buyers can obtain a second loan subject to lender approval. Key factors for consideration include repayment capacity, income coverage, and available tax deductions.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to launch its Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 awareness campaign next week. This initiative is a crucial last-mile monthly outreach programme designed specifically for EPFO members. Under this programme, the provident and pension fund body organises regular camps across India, operating at the district level.
For the ordinary saver or taxpayer, Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 signifies enhanced accessibility to essential provident and pension fund services and information. Instead of having to travel long distances or navigate complex processes, members can expect to find assistance and clarity closer to their homes through these district-level camps. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between the EPFO and its vast member base, ensuring that queries are addressed and services are delivered efficiently and locally. It provides a direct channel for members to engage with the fund body, understand their benefits, and resolve any issues pertaining to their provident and pension accounts. It's about bringing services to the doorstep of the beneficiaries.
What to watch: The specific dates and full list of cities for the campaign's launch next week.
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FINANCE · Livemint Money · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Workers in Madhya Pradesh are set to receive a significant healthcare boost, as a new Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) move comes into effect from October 1. The government has officially notified this date for the commencement of contributions under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948, in areas covered by the order across Madhya Pradesh.
For thousands of ordinary workers in 24 districts of the state, this development marks a crucial expansion of social security benefits. Once contributions become payable, eligible employees will gain access to the comprehensive healthcare services provided under the ESIC scheme. This typically includes medical care for themselves and their dependents, sickness benefit, maternity benefit, disablement benefit, and dependent’s benefit. It effectively extends a vital safety net, ensuring access to medical facilities and financial support during times of illness, injury, or other contingencies covered by the Act. This move aims to improve the overall well-being and financial security of the working population in these newly covered regions, reducing the burden of healthcare costs.
What to watch: The specific implementation details and the scope of benefits for the newly covered areas.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 9/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
An advocate from Ahmedabad recently sent a legal notice to PVR INOX over its cashless policy. According to experts, private businesses are permitted to skip cash and insist on digital payments.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Nifty index closed above the 23,400 mark on Wednesday, signalling a modest rebound in India’s equity markets. The lift came after oil prices continued to fall, easing concerns over energy costs. Traders also noted a softening of Middle‑East tensions following recent US‑Iran talks, which helped improve market sentiment. Metal stocks, fast‑moving consumer goods (FMCG) shares and public‑sector bank equities led the gains, pushing the benchmark higher. In contrast, information‑technology (IT) and oil‑and‑gas stocks slipped, showing a mixed sectoral performance. For the everyday saver, the move suggests a short‑term boost in portfolio values, but the underlying drivers—commodity price swings and geopolitical news—remain volatile. Taxpayers should watch for any policy responses that could affect capital gains or dividend taxation as market sentiment shifts.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Garware Hi Tech Films has signed a memorandum of understanding with Lubrizol to collaborate on the development and manufacturing of Lubrizol's global TPU technology in India.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Intellect Design Arena announced that Cargills Bank, a licensed commercial bank in Sri Lanka, has selected the Composable eMACH.ai Core Banking Architecture to expand its digital banking capabilities and strengthen its long-standing technology partnership with Intellect.
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FINANCE · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Brahma AI, a company known for its AI-native operating system tailored for enterprise audiovisual content, has announced a significant funding round. The firm successfully raised $150 million through the issuance of preferred shares. A substantial portion of this, $100 million, came from Multiples Alternate Asset Management, which led the investment.
Additionally, Brahma AI has garnered further investor interest amounting to $100 million, signaling strong confidence in its business model and technological offerings within the artificial intelligence sector. This capital injection is expected to fuel the company's growth and development in the competitive AI landscape.
For the ordinary saver or taxpayer, this news primarily reflects the robust and growing investment landscape in advanced technology, particularly AI. While it doesn't directly impact personal finances, it indicates that private capital is flowing into innovative areas that could reshape how businesses operate, potentially leading to new services or efficiencies in industries that use audiovisual content. It's a sign of where technology trends are heading, rather than a direct financial opportunity or risk for individual savers.
What to watch: How this funding accelerates Brahma AI's product development and market expansion in enterprise AI.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Glenmark has received an Establishment Inspection Report (EIR) for its manufacturing facility in Goa following an inspection conducted from June 22 to June 30, 2026.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The Mumbai ITAT has deleted a ₹1.93 crore tax addition related to gains from Toyam Industries. The tribunal ruled that the taxpayer provided a sufficient transaction trail, while the Revenue failed to provide evidence linking the taxpayer to alleged price manipulation.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Oswal Pumps has been awarded an order valued at Rs 297.50 crore from TREDCL.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · BS Personal Finance · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
Shares of Kaynes Technology, LIC Housing Finance, Manappuram Finance, and SAIL have been excluded from F&O trading effective September 23, 2026.
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FINANCE BRIEFquick bite · Livemint Money · editor 10/10 · 1 min read fact-checked
The 8th Pay Commission is currently reviewing salaries, pensions, and allowances for central government employees and pensioners, addressing inquiries regarding fitment factors, pay scales, and implementation timelines.
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