The government has shifted buyback taxation to a capital gains framework, while tightening rules for promoters who were seen as misusing buybacks as a tax-saving tool.
Ahead of Budget 2026, one question dominates conversations among salaried taxpayers: will income tax relief finally come? Let's have a look.
With January 2026 nearly over and no formal announcement yet, government employees are growing anxious about the 8th Pay Commission. The big question now is whether delayed salary revisions will lead to arrears, and when the money may actually reach their bank accounts.
The 8th Pay Commission has raised hopes of a higher salary hike for central government employees and pensioners. With consumption slowing and incomes under pressure, expectations this time are higher than in the past.
Mis-selling pulls families into long-term commitments, and low surrender values lock them in. Until these rules change, life insurance will remain a product where many lose more than they gain.
With the 8th Pay Commission expected to submit its recommendations in the coming months, attention has turned to the pattern of real salary hikes over the years. A look at earlier pay commissions offers useful clues about what employees may realistically expect this time.
Several insurer-backed studies show that a large share of Indian policyholders have life cover of less than five times their annual income. Most financial planners recommend at least 10 to 15 times annual income, and often more.
A sudden medical emergency can quickly turn into a financial crisis. With healthcare costs rising and insurance cover often falling short, many Indian families are increasingly turning to personal loans to bridge the gap.
Financial advisors say this income level is enough to begin building a long-term portfolio, provided the focus remains on discipline, safety and clear financial goals.
The meeting will be held under the banner of the National Council (Staff Side) of the Joint Consultative Machinery, which represents central government employees in discussions with the government.
The same investment amount can mean very different things for different people, depending on income, responsibilities and life goals, says expert.
With the 8th Pay Commission in focus, expectations are building around changes to pay and pensions for government employees. How might these revisions impact public spending, consumption and long-term fiscal health? Let's have a look.
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is preparing for its next major digital upgrade, EPFO 3.0. The move aims to make PF services faster, more user-friendly and accessible to workers across both organised and unorganised sectors.
Retirement promises freedom and flexibility, but it also brings a quiet shift in how money is taxed. Small mistakes made during this transition can slowly drain your savings, often without you noticing until it is too late.
An income tax refund delay can be frustrating, especially when everything seems in order. From data mismatches to bank account issues, even small errors can stop the refund from reaching your account on time.
