India’s Most Affordable City for Homebuyers in 2025
Buying a home is more than just a financial decision; it's an emotional one. It’s where memories are built, and dreams take shape. However, for many families, this dream seems distant due to high property prices and financial constraints. Thankfully, in 2025, the dream of homeownership has become more achievable, particularly in Ahmedabad. According to the latest Affordability Index by Knight Frank
India’s Most Affordable City for Homebuyers in 2025
Buying a home is more than just a financial decision; it's an emotional one. It’s where memories are built, and dreams take shape. However, for many families, this dream seems distant due to high property prices and financial constraints. Thankfully, in 2025, the dream of homeownership has become more achievable, particularly in Ahmedabad. According to the latest Affordability Index by Knight Frank
Jewellery vs Gold ETFs: How to Make Money Shine, Not Just Wrists
Gold has always held a revered place in many cultures, especially in India, where it is seen not only as a valuable asset but also as a symbol of tradition, prosperity, and security. However, when it comes to building long-term wealth, is simply owning gold jewellery the best option, or is there a more strategic way to invest in this precious metal? CA Nitin Kaushik, an expert in finance and investment strategies, recently shed light on this dilemma, highlightin
Jewellery vs Gold ETFs: How to Make Money Shine, Not Just Wrists
Gold has always held a revered place in many cultures, especially in India, where it is seen not only as a valuable asset but also as a symbol of tradition, prosperity, and security. However, when it comes to building long-term wealth, is simply owning gold jewellery the best option, or is there a more strategic way to invest in this precious metal? CA Nitin Kaushik, an expert in finance and investment strategies, recently shed light on this dilemma, highlightin
Why Middle-Class Indians Prefer Buying Property in Dubai Over India
Increasingly, middle-class Indian couples are opting to invest in property in Dubai rather than India to build their retirement wealth. A notable trend among Indian buyers in the UAE reveals that many couples, after years of hard work and savings, have managed to purchase two to three properties. These properties offer attractive rental yields of 6-7%, and are financed at an interest rate of just 5%. This financial model provides sustainable assets that genera
Why Middle-Class Indians Prefer Buying Property in Dubai Over India
Increasingly, middle-class Indian couples are opting to invest in property in Dubai rather than India to build their retirement wealth. A notable trend among Indian buyers in the UAE reveals that many couples, after years of hard work and savings, have managed to purchase two to three properties. These properties offer attractive rental yields of 6-7%, and are financed at an interest rate of just 5%. This financial model provides sustainable assets that genera
How to Retire at 40: Savings, Planning & Financial Tips
Retiring at 40 has become an exciting goal for many young professionals seeking freedom from traditional work life. While the idea of stopping work just when others are reaching their career peaks sounds appealing, achieving this early retirement requires disciplined saving, careful investing, and thorough planning. Experts say that to comfortably retire by 40, you must save between 35 to 79 times your annual expenses depending on your current age and lifestyl
How to Retire at 40: Savings, Planning & Financial Tips
Retiring at 40 has become an exciting goal for many young professionals seeking freedom from traditional work life. While the idea of stopping work just when others are reaching their career peaks sounds appealing, achieving this early retirement requires disciplined saving, careful investing, and thorough planning. Experts say that to comfortably retire by 40, you must save between 35 to 79 times your annual expenses depending on your current age and lifestyl
Is ₹70 Lakh Salary Still Middle Class in India
A surprising LinkedIn post by Gurugram-based investment banker Sarthak Ahuja has triggered widespread discussion across social media platforms, calling into question what it means to be “middle class” in urban India today. According to Ahuja, a ₹70 lakh annual salary a figure many would consider upper-middle class or even affluent may now fall squarely within what he terms the "new middle class." His argument is based on a simple truth:
Is ₹70 Lakh Salary Still Middle Class in India
A surprising LinkedIn post by Gurugram-based investment banker Sarthak Ahuja has triggered widespread discussion across social media platforms, calling into question what it means to be “middle class” in urban India today. According to Ahuja, a ₹70 lakh annual salary a figure many would consider upper-middle class or even affluent may now fall squarely within what he terms the "new middle class." His argument is based on a simple truth:
SBI Cuts FD, Savings Rates After RBI Policy Shift
In a move reflecting the Reserve Bank of India’s latest policy stance, the State Bank of India (SBI) has reduced interest rates on both savings accounts and fixed deposits (FDs), effective from June 15, 2025. This rate revision is expected to impact millions of depositors across the country, as banks realign with softer monetary cues from the central bank. SBI has cut its savings account interest rate by 5 basi
SBI Cuts FD, Savings Rates After RBI Policy Shift
In a move reflecting the Reserve Bank of India’s latest policy stance, the State Bank of India (SBI) has reduced interest rates on both savings accounts and fixed deposits (FDs), effective from June 15, 2025. This rate revision is expected to impact millions of depositors across the country, as banks realign with softer monetary cues from the central bank. SBI has cut its savings account interest rate by 5 basi
Farmers Insurance agent alleges wrongful policy cancellations affecting seniors
A Fremont-based Farmers Insurance franchise owner has raised serious allegations claiming the company has been canceling insurance policies by falsely stating the cancellations were requested by the insured clients. Jeffrey Carvalho, a 37-year veteran in the insurance industry, says this troubling practice has affected hundreds of his clients, especially senior citizens aged 65 and older across the Bay Area. Carvalho is demanding transparency and an end to these questionable cancellations.
Farmers Insurance agent alleges wrongful policy cancellations affecting seniors
A Fremont-based Farmers Insurance franchise owner has raised serious allegations claiming the company has been canceling insurance policies by falsely stating the cancellations were requested by the insured clients. Jeffrey Carvalho, a 37-year veteran in the insurance industry, says this troubling practice has affected hundreds of his clients, especially senior citizens aged 65 and older across the Bay Area. Carvalho is demanding transparency and an end to these questionable cancellations.
Kerala sees record growth in remittances and NRI deposits in 2025
Kerala has reached an unprecedented economic landmark as annual remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly those from Kerala, have surpassed ₹2 lakh crore for the first time. Alongside this, total deposits from NRIs in the state’s banking sector have crossed ₹3 lakh crore, signaling a robust and growing contribution of overseas Malayalis to the state’s financial ecosystem. This financial influx has significantly boosted Kerala’s domestic econo
Kerala sees record growth in remittances and NRI deposits in 2025
Kerala has reached an unprecedented economic landmark as annual remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly those from Kerala, have surpassed ₹2 lakh crore for the first time. Alongside this, total deposits from NRIs in the state’s banking sector have crossed ₹3 lakh crore, signaling a robust and growing contribution of overseas Malayalis to the state’s financial ecosystem. This financial influx has significantly boosted Kerala’s domestic econo
Retired Before March 2025? Claim UPS Benefits by June 30
If you retired from Central Government service on or before March 31, 2025, or are the legally wedded spouse of such a retiree, you may be eligible for significant financial benefits under the recently launched Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The deadline to claim these benefits is June 30, 2025, as announced by the National Pension System (NPS) Trust. Launched on April 1, 2025, the UPS is designed to supplement the pension income of retired Central Government employees and their spou
Retired Before March 2025? Claim UPS Benefits by June 30
If you retired from Central Government service on or before March 31, 2025, or are the legally wedded spouse of such a retiree, you may be eligible for significant financial benefits under the recently launched Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The deadline to claim these benefits is June 30, 2025, as announced by the National Pension System (NPS) Trust. Launched on April 1, 2025, the UPS is designed to supplement the pension income of retired Central Government employees and their spou
Why Young Indians Prefer Renting Over Buying Homes
For decades, owning a house was seen as a proud achievement in Indian households symbolic of success, stability, and adulthood. Parents often pushed their children to buy homes early, even if it meant burdening themselves with heavy EMIs. But in 2025, the mindset of India’s younger generation is shifting. With rising property prices, changing work patterns, and a desire for lifestyle freedom, more and more young Indians are opting to rent rather than buy. The traditional belie
Why Young Indians Prefer Renting Over Buying Homes
For decades, owning a house was seen as a proud achievement in Indian households symbolic of success, stability, and adulthood. Parents often pushed their children to buy homes early, even if it meant burdening themselves with heavy EMIs. But in 2025, the mindset of India’s younger generation is shifting. With rising property prices, changing work patterns, and a desire for lifestyle freedom, more and more young Indians are opting to rent rather than buy. The traditional belie
Middle East fast becoming global tech hub with AI, startups and cloud infrastructure
The Middle East is rapidly positioning itself as a significant force in global technology, with countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar taking bold steps to attract international tech investors and build local capacity. These nations are not only signing multibillion-dollar deals but also enacting legal reforms, fostering startup ecosystems, and constructing the infrastructure needed to support advanced artificial intelligence systems and cloud-based technologies. Thi
Middle East fast becoming global tech hub with AI, startups and cloud infrastructure
The Middle East is rapidly positioning itself as a significant force in global technology, with countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar taking bold steps to attract international tech investors and build local capacity. These nations are not only signing multibillion-dollar deals but also enacting legal reforms, fostering startup ecosystems, and constructing the infrastructure needed to support advanced artificial intelligence systems and cloud-based technologies. Thi
Dubai Firm Disappears Overnight, Investors Lose Millions
In yet another shocking case of financial fraud in the UAE, Gulf First Commercial Brokers, a Dubai-based brokerage firm, has reportedly shut down overnight, leaving behind empty offices and millions of dirhams in vanished investor funds. Many of the victims, including Indian expats, are now demanding answers after being lured into the scheme through aggressive cold-calling and promises of secure returns on forex investments. The firm operated from two office spaces in Capital Golden
Dubai Firm Disappears Overnight, Investors Lose Millions
In yet another shocking case of financial fraud in the UAE, Gulf First Commercial Brokers, a Dubai-based brokerage firm, has reportedly shut down overnight, leaving behind empty offices and millions of dirhams in vanished investor funds. Many of the victims, including Indian expats, are now demanding answers after being lured into the scheme through aggressive cold-calling and promises of secure returns on forex investments. The firm operated from two office spaces in Capital Golden
ULIPs vs Mutual Funds vs Stocks: Best for Long-Term Wealth?
Choosing the right investment vehicle for long-term wealth creation is a crucial step for financial planning. Among the most common options available to Indian investors are ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans), mutual funds, and direct investment in stocks. Each of these instruments offers a different mix of risk, return, flexibility, and cost. Understanding their core differences can help individuals make better investment decisions aligned with their goals and risk appetite.
ULIPs vs Mutual Funds vs Stocks: Best for Long-Term Wealth?
Choosing the right investment vehicle for long-term wealth creation is a crucial step for financial planning. Among the most common options available to Indian investors are ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans), mutual funds, and direct investment in stocks. Each of these instruments offers a different mix of risk, return, flexibility, and cost. Understanding their core differences can help individuals make better investment decisions aligned with their goals and risk appetite.
Mark Mobius Goes 95% Cash – Warns of 6-Month Global Market Risk, Bets Big on India
Veteran emerging markets investor Mark Mobius has shifted nearly all of his investments into cash, citing ongoing global trade tensions and market uncertainty. In an interview with Bloomberg Television, Mobius said that he currently has around 95% of his funds in cash, declaring that “cash is king” as the global economy navigates unstable trade dynamics. Mobius, who has over three decades of experience investing across developing markets and co-founded Mobius Capital P
Mark Mobius Goes 95% Cash – Warns of 6-Month Global Market Risk, Bets Big on India
Veteran emerging markets investor Mark Mobius has shifted nearly all of his investments into cash, citing ongoing global trade tensions and market uncertainty. In an interview with Bloomberg Television, Mobius said that he currently has around 95% of his funds in cash, declaring that “cash is king” as the global economy navigates unstable trade dynamics. Mobius, who has over three decades of experience investing across developing markets and co-founded Mobius Capital P
Tourist Wins $3.1 Million Jackpot on Illinois Lottery Visit to Chicago
A trip to Chicago ended with far more than sightseeing and selfies for one lucky tourist who now returns home $3.1 million richer. The unexpected windfall came courtesy of the Illinois Lottery’s FastPlay Ultimate Diamond Jackpot game, with the winning ticket purchased at Komal Wine and Liquors near O’Hare International Airport. The winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous, snagged a $3,188,104 jackpot while enjoying a visit to one of America’s most iconic cities.
Tourist Wins $3.1 Million Jackpot on Illinois Lottery Visit to Chicago
A trip to Chicago ended with far more than sightseeing and selfies for one lucky tourist who now returns home $3.1 million richer. The unexpected windfall came courtesy of the Illinois Lottery’s FastPlay Ultimate Diamond Jackpot game, with the winning ticket purchased at Komal Wine and Liquors near O’Hare International Airport. The winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous, snagged a $3,188,104 jackpot while enjoying a visit to one of America’s most iconic cities.
Harsh Goenka's Gold vs. Gadgets Post Wins Internet, Sparks Investment and Marriage Debate
RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka, known for his witty and thought-provoking social media posts, has once again struck a chord with netizens. This time, he took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a humorous yet insightful comparison between material purchases and long-term investments particularly gold. Using real-life anecdotes involving his wife, Mr Goenka cleverly highlighted how investing in gold has proven to be far more valuable over the years than spending on depreciating assets like cars,
Harsh Goenka's Gold vs. Gadgets Post Wins Internet, Sparks Investment and Marriage Debate
RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka, known for his witty and thought-provoking social media posts, has once again struck a chord with netizens. This time, he took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a humorous yet insightful comparison between material purchases and long-term investments particularly gold. Using real-life anecdotes involving his wife, Mr Goenka cleverly highlighted how investing in gold has proven to be far more valuable over the years than spending on depreciating assets like cars,
Gold vs Mutual Funds: Which Investment Offers Better Returns in 2025?
If you're wondering whether to invest in gold or mutual funds this year, you're not alone. With rising market uncertainty, inflation concerns, and global geopolitical tensions, investors are reevaluating traditional assets. Gold and mutual funds have long stood as two prominent options for Indian investors. While both offer potential returns, they cater to different investment styles, goals, and risk appetites. Financial experts suggest that a well-balanced investment portfolio, tailo
Gold vs Mutual Funds: Which Investment Offers Better Returns in 2025?
If you're wondering whether to invest in gold or mutual funds this year, you're not alone. With rising market uncertainty, inflation concerns, and global geopolitical tensions, investors are reevaluating traditional assets. Gold and mutual funds have long stood as two prominent options for Indian investors. While both offer potential returns, they cater to different investment styles, goals, and risk appetites. Financial experts suggest that a well-balanced investment portfolio, tailo
India’s Organic Food Exports Surge 35% to $665.96 Million in FY2024-25
India's organic food exports have witnessed a significant surge, registering a 35% increase to reach $665.96 million (approximately ₹5,700 crore) in the financial year ending March 31, 2025. This growth underscores the rising global demand for Indian organic products and the country's expanding footprint in the organic food sector. In terms of volume, exports grew by 41%, totaling 0.37 million tonnes in 2024-25, up from 0.26 million tonnes in the previous fiscal year. The
India’s Organic Food Exports Surge 35% to $665.96 Million in FY2024-25
India's organic food exports have witnessed a significant surge, registering a 35% increase to reach $665.96 million (approximately ₹5,700 crore) in the financial year ending March 31, 2025. This growth underscores the rising global demand for Indian organic products and the country's expanding footprint in the organic food sector. In terms of volume, exports grew by 41%, totaling 0.37 million tonnes in 2024-25, up from 0.26 million tonnes in the previous fiscal year. The
ED Files Chargesheet Against Sonia, Rahul Gandhi in National Herald Case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formally filed a chargesheet against senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in connection with its ongoing money laundering investigation into the National Herald case. This marks the first time that both leaders have been officially charged in this high-profile case, which has been under scrutiny for several years. The chargesheet, submitted to a special court in Delhi on April 9, 2025, also names five other individuals, including Indian Overs
ED Files Chargesheet Against Sonia, Rahul Gandhi in National Herald Case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formally filed a chargesheet against senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in connection with its ongoing money laundering investigation into the National Herald case. This marks the first time that both leaders have been officially charged in this high-profile case, which has been under scrutiny for several years. The chargesheet, submitted to a special court in Delhi on April 9, 2025, also names five other individuals, including Indian Overs
NRIs Not Liable for Capital Gains Tax on Mutual Fund Sales in India, Rules ITAT
In a ruling that could significantly influence the tax liabilities of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) investing in Indian mutual funds, the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT), Mumbai bench, has determined that capital gains earned by NRIs on the redemption of mutual fund units are not taxable in India. This decision was delivered in a case involving a Singapore-based NRI who had declared short-term capital gains from mutual fund investments but claimed exemption under the Double Taxation Avoidance
NRIs Not Liable for Capital Gains Tax on Mutual Fund Sales in India, Rules ITAT
In a ruling that could significantly influence the tax liabilities of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) investing in Indian mutual funds, the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT), Mumbai bench, has determined that capital gains earned by NRIs on the redemption of mutual fund units are not taxable in India. This decision was delivered in a case involving a Singapore-based NRI who had declared short-term capital gains from mutual fund investments but claimed exemption under the Double Taxation Avoidance






