News for 'Personal Finance'

Anup Saha appointed Kotak Mahindra Bank MD & CEO, effective 2027

Anup Saha appointed Kotak Mahindra Bank MD & CEO, effective 2027

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Anup Saha, currently a Wholetime Director at Kotak Mahindra Bank, has been appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for a three-year term, effective January 1, 2027, with the Reserve Bank of India's approval.

Why Rohan Bopanna Was Excluded From AITA's Elite SOM Roster

Why Rohan Bopanna Was Excluded From AITA's Elite SOM Roster

Rediff.com7 days ago

Rohan Bopanna, India's former world number one doubles player, has been excluded from the AITA's Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) roster. This exclusion is due to his failure to meet the mandatory one-year retirement criterion, as he announced his professional retirement on November 1, 2025, just shy of the October 16, 2026, deadline for the roster. Despite inquiring about his eligibility and receiving initial assurance, his continued participation on the Pro ATP tour until October 2025 meant he was still considered active.

L&T Finance posts strong Q1FY27 results, eyes AI-led growth and gold loan expansion

L&T Finance posts strong Q1FY27 results, eyes AI-led growth and gold loan expansion

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

L&T Finance reported a robust Q1FY27 with net profit growing 29% year-on-year to 900 crore, driven by strong asset growth and strategic initiatives including accelerating cross-selling, improving productivity, and fostering a technology-first, AI-led culture, alongside significant expansion in gold loans.

SC refers Rajpal Yadav's bounced cheque dispute to mediation

SC refers Rajpal Yadav's bounced cheque dispute to mediation

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has referred actor Rajpal Yadav's long-running cheque-dishonour dispute to mediation after he deposited Rs 2 crore with the court's registry. The court also directed the trial court to release his passport for professional commitments abroad. The dispute stems from a 2010 financial agreement for his directorial debut, leading to multiple cheque-bounce cases and a three-month imprisonment sentence upheld by the Delhi High Court.

Why has the Boxing Federation suspended its secretary?

Why has the Boxing Federation suspended its secretary?

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Boxing Federation of India president Ajay Singh has suspended secretary general Pramod Kumar with immediate effect. The suspension is pending an inquiry into alleged financial irregularities, non-cooperation with investigations, and misuse of authority. Allegations include unauthorised work orders for broadcasting and failure to cooperate with inquiries into championship cancellations.

Make good films, rebuild image, SC tells Rajpal Yadav

Make good films, rebuild image, SC tells Rajpal Yadav

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court advised actor Rajpal Yadav to make good movies and entertain people to rebuild his image, as it acknowledged his payment of Rs 1.15 crore in a long-running cheque-bounce case. The court also noted a prospective buyer for his property willing to deposit Rs 85 lakh. Yadav expressed financial losses from his film 'Ata Pata Laapata' and the impact on his career.

MPs Express Alarm Over New UPI Merchant Fee

MPs Express Alarm Over New UPI Merchant Fee

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Opposition MPs have voiced strong concerns regarding the government's decision to levy a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15. They argue that this "anti-people" move will negatively impact a large segment of the population, despite the finance ministry clarifying that the charge is on the merchant ecosystem and not directly on customers for P2P or small payments.

Nana Patekar: 'Never Seen Rs 1 lakh In My Life'

Nana Patekar: 'Never Seen Rs 1 lakh In My Life'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

'People started fearing Nana Patekar's frankness. Kuchh bhi bol sakta hai yeh. He once pointed to a major respected politician's belly and asked 'Kya hai yeh?''

Hockey India Chief Dilip Tirkey Accuses Officials Of 'Theft'; Files Police Complaint

Hockey India Chief Dilip Tirkey Accuses Officials Of 'Theft'; Files Police Complaint

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey has lodged a police complaint against several HI officials, including the former Executive Director, accusing them of "criminal breach of trust, theft, endangerment of life and wrongful abandonment." The complaint stems from an incident where Tirkey's personal belongings, including medicines, were allegedly withheld after an official vehicle was recalled. This incident highlights an ongoing power struggle between Tirkey and HI Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh, exacerbated by past controversies like the saffron jersey fiasco and disputes over board meetings.

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Shares of fintech firms, particularly Paytm, saw significant movement after the Indian government introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15.

Panel To Decide UPI Charges Above Rs 2,000 For Merchants

Panel To Decide UPI Charges Above Rs 2,000 For Merchants

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A high-level committee, including representatives from banks and payment associations, is set to decide on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants. While person-to-person and person-to-merchant transactions up to Rs 2,000 remain free, the move follows a recent amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, sparking debate and clarification from the Finance Minister that only certain high-value merchant transactions might incur charges.

Rising Inflation? Protect Your Money Now

Rising Inflation? Protect Your Money Now

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

'Separate needs from wants and minimise discretionary spending.'

Can top professionals fall for cyber fraud? IIT Madras study says...

Can top professionals fall for cyber fraud? IIT Madras study says...

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

An IIT Madras study reveals that financial cybercrime victims in India are often highly educated professionals, challenging the notion that only careless or financially unaware individuals are targeted. The research highlights that digital literacy doesn't guarantee protection, as fraudsters exploit stress and emotional vulnerabilities.

Tax Defaulters Won't Be Arrested

Tax Defaulters Won't Be Arrested

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

'Tax recovery will continue through attachment and sale of assets and other recovery mechanisms, but personal arrest will no longer form part of the prescribed recovery process.'

Mobile Retailers Call For 'No UPI Day' Over MDR Fees

Mobile Retailers Call For 'No UPI Day' Over MDR Fees

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Mobile phone retailers across India, represented by AIMRA, are protesting the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 for merchants. They plan to observe 'No UPI Day' on October 2, 2026, arguing that this fee will significantly impact their income and burden small businesses, advocating for a continued Zero MDR structure for UPI merchant payments.

Anil Ambani, RCAP Under CBI Scanner For Alleged Rs 2,684 Crore LIC Fraud

Anil Ambani, RCAP Under CBI Scanner For Alleged Rs 2,684 Crore LIC Fraud

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The CBI has registered a case against Reliance Capital Limited (RCAP), its former chairman Anil Ambani, and others for an alleged Rs 2,684.57-crore fraud. The case stems from a complaint by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) regarding investments in RCAP's non-convertible debentures, alleging criminal conspiracy, misrepresentation, and fraudulent diversion of funds causing significant loss to LIC.

DRI Cracks Down On Illicit Drug Trafficking With Massive Seizures

DRI Cracks Down On Illicit Drug Trafficking With Massive Seizures

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has conducted multiple intelligence-led operations across India, seizing over 845 kg of various contraband substances including ganja/cannabis, charas, amphetamine, and cocaine. These operations led to the arrest of 15 individuals involved in illicit drug trafficking, disrupting several supply chains.

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.

Why Zero-Fee UPI Transactions Are Crucial For India's Digital Economy

Why Zero-Fee UPI Transactions Are Crucial For India's Digital Economy

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Former NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar has urged the government to maintain zero-fee UPI transactions for several more years, arguing that the benefits of UPI as a public good outweigh the costs. This comes amidst the government's recent decision to introduce a 0.4% fee on person-to-merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 from October 15, a move that has drawn criticism.

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends nearly six years of fully free UPI payments, though person-to-person (P2P) transfers and small P2M payments remain free. The charges aim to bolster investment in UPI infrastructure, with specific exemptions and caps for essential sectors.

CBI Registers Case Against RCAP, Anil Ambani In Rs 2,684 Crore LIC Fraud

CBI Registers Case Against RCAP, Anil Ambani In Rs 2,684 Crore LIC Fraud

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The CBI has registered a case against Reliance Capital Limited (RCAP), its former chairman Anil Ambani, and others for an alleged Rs 2,684.57-crore fraud involving investments made by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). Anil Ambani has denied any wrongdoing. The LIC alleges criminal conspiracy, misrepresentation, and fraudulent diversion of funds.

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI and do not favour international cards. The ministry also asserted that the MDR, applicable to person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, is unlikely to increase cash transactions or cause inflation, with measures in place to prevent burdening consumers.

Why PCB doesn't want its finances made public

Why PCB doesn't want its finances made public

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court against the Pakistan Information Commission's directive to disclose its confidential financial records, player contracts, and employee salary details. The PCB argues that such disclosure would harm its commercial interests and contractual negotiations, as it operates in a competitive international environment and does not receive government funding.

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The NCP (SP) has demanded a complete rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. The party termed the move a "direct assault" on small traders and shopkeepers, accusing the Modi government of "double standards" by burdening small merchants while large industrialists benefit from loan write-offs.

'Airtel Will Remain An Institution Run By Professionals'

'Airtel Will Remain An Institution Run By Professionals'

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

'The Rs 35,000 crore of capex every year, I don't get to sign 35 paise out of this.'

Opposition Slams New UPI Charges, Questions GDP Calculation

Opposition Slams New UPI Charges, Questions GDP Calculation

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Opposition MPs have voiced strong criticism against the government's new fee on UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants, calling it "anti-people" and expressing widespread "outrage". The issue was raised in a Parliamentary Standing Committee meeting, where concerns were also flagged regarding the methodology of GDP growth calculation and the government's stance on Virtual Digital Assets.

Buying A Used Car On Loan? Know The Cost

Buying A Used Car On Loan? Know The Cost

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Used-car financing has seen significant growth, but borrowers must be aware of higher interest rates, conservative loan-to-value ratios, shorter tenures, and the risk of owing more than the car's depreciated value. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions.

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a "Modi tax" and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.

Should You Buy A Return-Of-Premium Plan?

Should You Buy A Return-Of-Premium Plan?

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Compare premiums, claim settlement ratios, exclusions, waiting periods and surrender provisions.

Is Modi Govt Bowing To US Demands On UPI Charges?

Is Modi Govt Bowing To US Demands On UPI Charges?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Congress party has accused the Modi government of succumbing to US pressure by introducing a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000 for merchants. The party alleges this move aims to benefit US card companies and links it to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues. The government, however, clarifies that consumers will not be charged.

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly refuted government claims that its MPs on the Parliament Standing Committee on Finance supported a fee on high-value UPI payments. Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, stated that the "UPI tax" proposal was not specifically discussed by the committee, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from public backlash and appeasing US companies. The government, however, cited the committee's report which pressed for a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

Debate Rages Over New UPI MDR Charges

Debate Rages Over New UPI MDR Charges

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

BJD chief Naveen Patnaik has voiced concerns over the Centre's decision to introduce Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 from October 15, urging protection for small traders and common people. This move has sparked a political debate, with the BJP defending the charges as beneficial for digital infrastructure and largely not impacting consumers, while the Congress and traders' associations criticise it as an additional burden.

Why RBI Backs UPI MDR For Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Why RBI Backs UPI MDR For Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has endorsed the introduction of a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, which levies a 0.4 per cent fee on merchant payments above the threshold, aims to bolster the long-term sustainability and growth of India's digital payments ecosystem. The RBI clarified that person-to-person (P2P) transactions and small person-to-merchant (P2M) payments below Rs 2,000 will remain free for users, ensuring no direct charge on customers.

J&K High Court Denies ED's Request For Additional Charges In Cricket Fund Scam

J&K High Court Denies ED's Request For Additional Charges In Cricket Fund Scam

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has rejected a petition by the Enforcement Directorate to add charges of receiving and concealing stolen property in the alleged Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association fund scam. While the court upheld the ED's right to file such an application, it found insufficient merit in the current material to invoke sections 411 and 424 of the Ranbir Penal Code, stating that the alleged acts were part of the principal transaction of conspiracy and breach of trust.

Why Jharkhand Businesses Are Concerned About New UPI MDR Charges

Why Jharkhand Businesses Are Concerned About New UPI MDR Charges

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

A trade body in Jharkhand, FJCCI, has urged the Union Finance Minister to withdraw the proposed 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants. The body argues that this charge will significantly increase operating costs for businesses, especially MSMEs and retailers, who rely on the current zero-MDR regime for digital payments.

Mayawati Criticises New UPI Merchant Transaction Fee

Mayawati Criticises New UPI Merchant Transaction Fee

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

BSP chief Mayawati has criticised the Centre's decision to introduce a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. She termed it a "capitalist profiteering attitude" that burdens the common people, while the government clarified that the charge is on merchants and not customers for person-to-person transactions.

Thane Finance Company Duped With Fake Jewellery

Thane Finance Company Duped With Fake Jewellery

Rediff.com28 May 2026

A finance company in Thane, Maharashtra, has reported being defrauded of Rs 25.96 lakh by five individuals who allegedly mortgaged fake jewellery to obtain loans. Police are investigating the case, which reportedly occurred in 2025.

President Murmu returns West Bengal anti-goonda bill for reconsideration

President Murmu returns West Bengal anti-goonda bill for reconsideration

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

President Droupadi Murmu has returned the West Bengal government's proposed anti-goonda bill for reconsideration. The objection stems from a provision in the bill that may overlap with a central anti-narcotics law, specifically concerning offences under the NDPS Act, 1985, and the PITNDPS Act, 1988. This raises concerns about potential duplication and repugnancy under Article 254 of the Constitution.

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transfers above Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15, ending nearly six years of free merchant payments. This move led to initial rallies in fintech stocks like Paytm and Mobikwik, though some later pared gains. Person-to-person transactions and small payments remain free for customers, with the fee being a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR).

Why India's Banks Need A Five-Day Week

Why India's Banks Need A Five-Day Week

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A two-day weekend would help employees recover physically and mentally. They would return better prepared for branch work that demands patience, judgment, and accuracy, asserts Tamal Bandyopadhyay.