Author: Invest Policy

Many people ignore their old income tax return (ITR) files once they submit them yearly. But in many situations, old ITR copies become very important. Whether you are applying for a bank loan, planning to travel abroad, filing a visa application, or applying under a government scheme, your ITR can be your most significant financial proof. Also, in some cases, the Income Tax Department may send a notice asking for details from past years. If you have claimed a refund and haven’t received it, you should show your ITR copy again. So, keeping your old ITR safe can save you…

In the last few months, checking the Provident Fund (PF) balance has become very simple. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced many features to make it easy for workers to track their savings. That’s why more people are now checking their PF balances online or using mobile apps. According to Google Trends, searches related to PF balance check have seen a big jump recently, making it one of the most searched topics in the finance category. One of the main reasons behind this surge is the ease with which people can now check their PF balance—even if they…

Two of India’s biggest private banks—HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank—have shown strong performance in the fourth quarter of FY25. Both banks posted better-than-expected results, and their stocks have gained over 7% in just one week. Now, investors are wondering: after this recent surge, which stock is better placed for future growth? Here’s a simple breakdown of both banks based on key financial indicators like valuation, loan and deposit growth, net interest margin (NIM), and what top brokerages are saying about their future. ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank Stock Valuation: What Numbers Say Valuation is one of the most important factors…

Investing is essential for financial growth, but choosing the right investment option can be overwhelming, especially for small investors with limited capital. Should you invest in shares, mutual funds, gold, or PPF? Each option has its benefits, risks, and potential returns. In this guide, we’ll break down all four investment types and help you decide which one suits you best. 1. Shares: High Risk, High Return What Are Shares? Shares, or stocks, represent ownership in a company. When you buy shares of a company, you become a part-owner and gain the right to a portion of its profits. Pros of…

Donald Trump’s re-election as the US President has brought his “America First” economic policies back into focus. These policies aim to benefit the US economy but can have significant ripple effects on global economies, including India. With Budget 2025 on the horizon, the Indian government must carefully navigate the challenges posed by Trump’s policies to maintain economic stability and growth. Let’s explore how Trump’s second term might influence India’s economic decisions and priorities. Tariff Wars and India’s Trade Challenges Under Trump’s “America First” policy, the US has increased tariffs on imports to protect domestic industries. In his first term, Indian…

Taxes are the backbone of a nation’s economy, helping fund public services, infrastructure, and development. Every citizen must contribute by paying taxes as per their income. While paying taxes is a legal obligation, some people intentionally or unintentionally fail to fulfill this responsibility. But what happens if someone refuses to pay taxes? Let’s explore the consequences, including fines, interest, and the possibility of jail time. Understanding Income Tax in India The Indian tax system is based on income brackets called tax slabs. Taxpayers can choose between two systems—the old tax regime and the new one, each offering different tax rates…

Mutual funds are a popular investment option in India, with a growing number of investors venturing into them every year. However, despite their popularity, many investors lack a proper understanding of mutual fund categories and their differences. Two commonly discussed categories are small-cap mutual funds and large-cap mutual funds. Knowing the differences between these two can help investors make more informed decisions. Understanding Small-Cap Mutual Funds Small-cap mutual funds are equity-oriented schemes that focus on investing in companies with smaller market capitalizations. According to SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India), these are companies ranked 251st and below in terms…

Indian Railways, the world’s fourth-largest railway network, carries over 2.5 crore passengers daily. For many travelers, booking reserved tickets ensures a comfortable journey. However, life is unpredictable, and sometimes you may find yourself unable to board the train from your designated station. Did you know that Indian Railways offers a facility to change your boarding station? Yes, you can switch your boarding point if needed. Here’s a complete guide on how and when you can do it. When Can You Change Your Boarding Station? Passengers are allowed to change their boarding station up to 24 hours before the train’s scheduled…

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has introduced a significant change in its rules for claim settlement. This move is set to benefit nearly 7 crore active subscribers by providing higher interest payouts on their provident fund money. The updated rule ensures that interest is calculated until the exact date of claim settlement, unlike earlier provisions. Key Change in Claim Settlement Rules Previously, under Paragraph 60(2)(b) of the EPF Scheme 1952, members withdrawing funds before the 24th of a month received interest only up to the end of the previous month. This often resulted in a loss of interest for…

The recent Supreme Court ruling has put an end to income tax exemptions on the salaries of priests and nuns, stirring conversations around religious income and tax policy. For years, priests and nuns working in churches, particularly in Catholic institutions, enjoyed a unique tax-free status. However, with the rejection of 93 petitions from various religious organizations, the Supreme Court has set a new precedent, requiring all salaried individuals, regardless of religious affiliation, to pay taxes on their income. Background: Why Were Priests and Nuns Exempt from Tax? The roots of this exemption date back to the 1940s during British rule…