News for 'financial policy'

How To Prepare For A Heart Emergency

How To Prepare For A Heart Emergency

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Families, especially those with a history of these ailments, must prepare before an emergency strikes.

RBI raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.1% amid global headwinds

RBI raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.1% amid global headwinds

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased its GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year (FY27) by 40 basis points to 7.1 per cent, acknowledging the resilience of domestic economic activity despite global headwinds and geopolitical tensions.

FCNR(B) Inflows Squeeze Private Bank Margins in Q2, Recovery Expected

FCNR(B) Inflows Squeeze Private Bank Margins in Q2, Recovery Expected

Rediff.com7 days ago

Leading private banks in India, including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank, experienced a decline in net interest margins (NIMs) during the second quarter of the financial year due to significant deposit mobilisation under the Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank), or FCNR (B), scheme. However, banks anticipate a recovery in margins in the coming quarters as these funds are deployed and the interest-rate cycle supports lending yields.

Machine Learning Uncovers Patterns Of Aggression On Indian X During Key Events

Machine Learning Uncovers Patterns Of Aggression On Indian X During Key Events

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Researchers from Goa Institute of Management (GIM) and Goa Business School conducted a study analysing over 1.31 lakh posts on social media platform X using machine learning models. They found that indirect aggression is most common during major social, financial, sporting, and political events in India. The study classified aggression into overt, covert, and non-aggressive forms, noting that overt aggression remained relatively low but peaked during events like India's T20 World Cup loss. The findings have significant implications for online moderation and communication policies.

Sonam Maskar Sets Sights On 2028 LA Olympics Quota

Sonam Maskar Sets Sights On 2028 LA Olympics Quota

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Sonam Maskar, a silver medallist in the women's 10m air rifle team event, has expressed her ambition to secure a quota place for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics at the upcoming ISSF World Championship in Doha. She also reflected on her journey, highlighting financial struggles and her father's support. The article also features kabaddi player Raj Rani, who won a gold medal at the Asian Games, sharing her joy and acknowledging her father's role in her success.

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.

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

If a bank sold the policy, complain to its grievance cell and, if necessary, escalate the complaint to the Reserve Bank of India Ombudsman.

India's FY27 growth to moderate in H2 amid inflation, liquidity risks: DBS

India's FY27 growth to moderate in H2 amid inflation, liquidity risks: DBS

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

India's economy is projected to lose momentum in the second half of fiscal 2026-27, with tighter financial conditions, elevated energy prices, and broadening inflation pressures posing significant risks, according to DBS Bank economist Radhika Rao.

Retail Inflation Jumps to 5.54% in September, Driven by High Onion and Food Prices

Retail Inflation Jumps to 5.54% in September, Driven by High Onion and Food Prices

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

India's retail inflation surged to 5.54 per cent in September, primarily due to a significant increase in onion and other food prices, remaining just within the Reserve Bank of India's tolerance band. This marks the highest inflation since the new series with base year 2024 took effect in January.

Sensex Plunges 1,045 Points, Nifty Hits 52-Week Low Amid FII Selling, RBI Tightening

Sensex Plunges 1,045 Points, Nifty Hits 52-Week Low Amid FII Selling, RBI Tightening

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Indian stock market experienced a significant downturn, with the Sensex crashing over 1,000 points and the Nifty hitting a fresh 52-week low, driven by sustained selling from foreign institutional investors, the RBI's monetary policy tightening, and elevated Brent crude prices.

H-1B visa 'completely broken', should be scrapped: Vance

H-1B visa 'completely broken', should be scrapped: Vance

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

US Vice President J D Vance has labelled the H-1B visa programme as "completely broken" and expressed support for its total abolition. He argues that corporations exploit the system to replace American workers with cheaper international staff, rather than bringing in elite talent. Vance also defended the controversial $100,000 levy on certain H-1B petitions, viewing it as a deterrent against cost-cutting exploitation.

RBI proposes 60-day debit hold on suspected money mule accounts to combat cyber fraud

RBI proposes 60-day debit hold on suspected money mule accounts to combat cyber fraud

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed a standard operating procedure (SOP) for banks to implement temporary debit holds on accounts or transactions suspected of being involved in money-mule activity and cyber-enabled financial fraud, with a maximum duration of 60 days.

Is India-US Trade Deal Near The Finish Line?

Is India-US Trade Deal Near The Finish Line?

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Marco Rubio will visit Mumbai and Jamnagar to discuss energy cooperation as S Jaishankar says India-US trade talks are nearing a landing point, with a few issues unresolved.

BRICS raises 'serious concerns' over unilateral tariffs, trade barriers

BRICS raises 'serious concerns' over unilateral tariffs, trade barriers

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

BRICS members have expressed 'serious concerns' over the unilateral imposition of trade and finance-related measures, including higher tariffs and non-tariff barriers, stating these actions distort trade and are inconsistent with WTO rules. The grouping also highlighted elevated risks to the global economic outlook due to geopolitical tensions, trade fragmentation, and protectionism.

What Your Health Insurance Policy Really Covers -- And The Fine Print You Should Never Ignore

What Your Health Insurance Policy Really Covers -- And The Fine Print You Should Never Ignore

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Here's decoding the fine print so that you know exactly what your health insurance policy covers, what it doesn't and the policy conditions that deserve your attention before you need to make a claim.

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.

The High Cost Of Defending The Rupee

The High Cost Of Defending The Rupee

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The FCNR (B) stratagem relies on using public money to defend the rupee. The State subsidises foreign borrowing to attract dollars. This tool requires large-scale borrowing to make a material difference against a gross external flow of $11 billion a day. A commensurately large fiscal cost falls upon the exchequer. The ministry of finance will choose how much it is willing to spend in exchange for this round number, points out Ajay Shah.

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

PAYD suits infrequent drivers who can estimate annual mileage.

Repo Rate Hike: Impact On Loans, FDs

Repo Rate Hike: Impact On Loans, FDs

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

'Existing borrowers who have surplus cash should make partial loan prepayments to offset the impact of rising EMIs and reduce the overall interest burden.'

India Is Ageing Faster Than US

India Is Ageing Faster Than US

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

'While the population remains relatively young, its age structure is beginning to shift, setting the stage for a much older population later this century.'

Irdai proposes phased reduction in insurer expense limits, new commission framework

Irdai proposes phased reduction in insurer expense limits, new commission framework

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) has proposed a phased reduction in the expenses of management (EoM) limits for insurers, aiming to lower the overall cost of insurance and enhance returns for policyholders. The proposals also include a new framework for commissions, stricter measures against mis-selling, and mandatory cost audits.

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Chennai on Saturday for the sixth edition of 'Chhatron Ki Goonj,' a youth outreach programme. He is scheduled to meet Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, marking their first interaction since the formation of the SSJV alliance and TVK joining the INDIA bloc. The visit includes an unscripted interaction with students at Island Grounds, focusing on critical issues, amidst tight security arrangements.

India Inc's credit quality robust in H1FY27, but global risks loom

India Inc's credit quality robust in H1FY27, but global risks loom

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Indian corporate sector demonstrated strong credit quality in the first half of FY27, driven by robust balance sheets and healthy liquidity, despite facing risks from elevated crude prices, inflation, and global interest rates.

BRICS finance chiefs push for greater emerging market representation in IMF, World Bank

BRICS finance chiefs push for greater emerging market representation in IMF, World Bank

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors have called for increased representation of emerging-market and developing economies in the IMF and World Bank, while also criticising unilateral tariffs and trade measures, as the expanded bloc aims to bolster financial cooperation amidst global fragmentation.

Rupee stabilises in H1FY27 amid RBI interventions, global pressures persist

Rupee stabilises in H1FY27 amid RBI interventions, global pressures persist

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

After a significant 9.9% depreciation in FY26, the Indian rupee has shown comparative stability in the first half of FY27, depreciating by only 1.1%, attributed to regulatory interventions and measures to attract foreign capital, despite ongoing global pressures from rising crude oil prices and foreign investor outflows.

FM Sitharaman Confident Of India's Double-Digit Economic Growth

FM Sitharaman Confident Of India's Double-Digit Economic Growth

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed strong confidence in India achieving over 10 per cent economic growth, advocating for increased technology adoption and innovation. She urged overcoming scepticism and highlighted technology's transformative role in agriculture and public sector reforms, while also launching a new fund and book at an IIT Madras event.

Paytm CEO Foresees Increased Profitability From New UPI Charges

Paytm CEO Foresees Increased Profitability From New UPI Charges

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Paytm CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma stated that the government's new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on large-value UPI transactions will significantly increase the company's revenue and profitability. The 0.4% fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants, effective October 15, is expected to give Paytm a competitive edge. Sharma also highlighted the company's focus on generating free cash flow, expanding internationally, and developing proprietary artificial intelligence capabilities to drive future growth.

Associate membership for Andaman & Nicobar, representative at ICC on agenda at BCCI AGM

Associate membership for Andaman & Nicobar, representative at ICC on agenda at BCCI AGM

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The BCCI's 95th Annual General Meeting in Mumbai will address several crucial matters, including the grant of associate membership to the Cricket Association of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the appointment of a BCCI representative to the ICC, and the induction of new members to the IPL Governing Council.

Vijay slams Stalin for 'body-shaming' TVK woman candidate

Vijay slams Stalin for 'body-shaming' TVK woman candidate

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has accused DMK president M.K. Stalin of 'body-shaming' their Dharapuram bypoll candidate P. Satyabama during a campaign rally, petitioning the Election Commission to revoke his star campaigner status and impose a temporary ban.

Reliance Industries raises Rs 25,000 crore in September bond issues, navigating rising borrowing costs

Reliance Industries raises Rs 25,000 crore in September bond issues, navigating rising borrowing costs

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has successfully raised a total of Rs 25,000 crore through domestic bond issues in September, including a recent Rs 13,000 crore 10-year bond at 7.90 per cent, as it prioritises funding certainty amidst expectations of a possible RBI rate hike and rising borrowing costs.

Should You Buy Dengue Insurance?

Should You Buy Dengue Insurance?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Buyers should check their scope and triggers and whether they need such policies alongside their regular health insurance.

Thales CEO Warns Of AI-Powered Cyberattacks And Quantum Threats

Thales CEO Warns Of AI-Powered Cyberattacks And Quantum Threats

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Patrice Caine, Chairman and CEO of Thales, highlighted Artificial Intelligence as both a major cybersecurity challenge, accelerating attack speed and autonomy, and a crucial tool for defenders. He also warned about quantum computing's future threat to encrypted data. Thales introduced new AI-powered solutions like Luna 8 and CipherTrust DSPM at its Cyber Summit 2026 to combat these evolving threats.

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.

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of levying fees on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants. The government highlighted that a parliamentary standing committee, which included Congress MPs, had previously backed a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI. This move aims to ensure the financial sustainability of the UPI ecosystem and reduce its dependence on government subsidies, a concern raised by the committee due to the significant funding gap between allocations and operational costs.

FCNR(B) funds find a runway ahead of festival season-led credit demand

FCNR(B) funds find a runway ahead of festival season-led credit demand

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

RBI Deputy Governor Rohit Jain highlighted that banks are well-positioned to deploy $133 billion mobilised through FCNR(B) deposits, especially with strong credit demand ahead of the festival season, while also stressing the importance of robust technology governance and cyber defences in the financial sector.

PM Modi Calls For AI-Driven Civil Service Transformation At UPSC Centenary

PM Modi Calls For AI-Driven Civil Service Transformation At UPSC Centenary

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the UPSC centenary, urged a fundamental shift in civil services recruitment and governance. He highlighted the need for services to adapt to an "instant-delivery world" powered by AI, focusing on citizen-centricity and evaluating candidates' motivation beyond academic knowledge. The PM also praised Captain Smit Machchhar's bravery during his address.

Government Forms Task Force To Explore Formula 1 Revival In India By 2028

Government Forms Task Force To Explore Formula 1 Revival In India By 2028

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India's Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has announced the formation of a 10-member Task Force, chaired by Niti Aayog's Yugal Kishore Joshi, to assess the feasibility and challenges of reviving Formula 1 in the country. The committee aims to develop a roadmap for India to host a Grand Prix by 2028, focusing on sustainable growth, policy interventions, and addressing past issues like taxation. The Adani group, owners of the Buddh International Circuit, will also be involved.

Leaked images show damaged US bases in Iranian strikes

Leaked images show damaged US bases in Iranian strikes

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

New photographic evidence and a Pentagon inspector general's report confirm extensive damage to US military installations across the Middle East due to Iranian missile and drone strikes. The report details billions in financial costs, structural losses to hundreds of buildings, and damage to dozens of aircraft, contradicting previous assertions about US military readiness and ordnance stockpiles. The conflict also led to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil prices.

How India Is Integrating Payment Systems In Global Trade Deals

How India Is Integrating Payment Systems In Global Trade Deals

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

India is actively integrating payment system harmonisation into its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, especially with countries hosting a large Indian diaspora. This strategy aims to leverage India's growing fintech ecosystem, facilitate cross-border financial services, and position India as a global hub for financial services exports, particularly through platforms like GIFT City.

UIDAI Plans International Expansion For Aadhaar

UIDAI Plans International Expansion For Aadhaar

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is actively working on plans to expand Aadhaar's reach globally, particularly to benefit non-resident Indians (NRIs) and overseas citizens of India (OCIs). This initiative aims to enhance interoperability, attract investment, and streamline digital identification processes, with new guidelines for merchants and products like Aadhaar Lite also in development.