Key Financial Tasks for April 2025: New Tax Rules, Investments and ITR Tips

The financial year (FY) in India begins on April 1 and ends on March 31. This means April marks the beginning of FY 2025-26, making it a crucial time to review investments and tax planning. Taking early action can help optimise savings and ensure compliance with new tax laws.

Review New Tax Rules and Plan Taxes Wisely

Revised Tax Slabs for FY 2025-26

With the Finance Act 2025 now in effect, major changes have been introduced in the Income Tax rules. Under the new regime, individuals with an income of up to ₹12 lakh are now eligible for a rebate under Section 87A, up from the previous limit of ₹7 lakh.

This means that if your income is ₹12 lakh or below, you will not have to pay any income tax. Previously, taxpayers earning ₹12 lakh under the new regime would have paid ₹80,000 in taxes. However, even if no tax is due, filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) remains mandatory.

Updated Income Tax Slabs (FY 2025-26)

Income Range Tax Rate
Up to ₹4,00,000 Nil
₹4,00,001 – ₹8,00,000 5%
₹8,00,001 – ₹12,00,000 10%
₹12,00,001 – ₹16,00,000 15%
₹16,00,001 – ₹20,00,000 20%
₹20,00,001 – ₹24,00,000 25%
Above ₹24,00,000 30%

Choosing between the old and new tax regimes is crucial. If your income is below ₹12 lakh, you may not need tax-saving investments required under the old regime. This provides greater flexibility in financial planning.

Evaluate Your Investments and Portfolio

April is the perfect time to assess your investment portfolio. Reviewing your budget and financial goals helps in identifying unnecessary expenses and making better investment decisions. If needed, seek expert advice to align your investments with your financial objectives.

Submit Form 15G/15H to Avoid TDS Deductions

If your taxable income is below the exemption limit, submit Form 15G (for individuals under 60) or Form 15H (for senior citizens) to prevent unnecessary Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on your interest income.

Invest Early in PPF and NPS

If you plan to invest in the Public Provident Fund (PPF) or National Pension System (NPS), doing so in early April helps maximise interest earnings. Ensure you have sufficient funds to make a lump sum investment at the start of the financial year.

Start Preparing for Income Tax Return (ITR) Filing

Begin organising tax documents and investment proofs early to avoid last-minute hassles when filing your ITR for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26).

  • Deadline for regular ITR filing: July 31, 2025
  • Belated return deadline: December 31, 2025 (with a late fee)
  • Revised return: If you file on time but choose the wrong tax regime, you can submit a revised return before the deadline.

Employees should collect Form 16 from employers (typically available after June 15) and gather records for other income sources like capital gains, rental income, or professional earnings. If you have foreign income, consult a tax professional for proper reporting.

Conclusion

The start of a new financial year is the best time to plan ahead. Reviewing tax rules, adjusting investments, avoiding unnecessary TDS deductions, and organising documents for ITR filing will help you stay financially prepared for FY 2025-26.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Best Gold Stocks in India in April 2025 – Based on 5Y CAGR

Gold has long been a prized asset in India, representing both prosperity and financial stability. In the past, investments in gold were primarily confined to physical forms like jewellery and bullion. However, with the emergence of modern financial instruments, investors now have the opportunity to invest in gold stocks, offering an alternative way to gain exposure to the precious metal’s market trends. This article delves into the top gold stocks in India in April 2025.

Best Gold Stocks in India in April 2025 – 5yr CAGR Basis

Name Market Cap (₹ Crore) ↓5Y CAGR (%) 1Y Return (%)
Sky Gold and Diamonds Ltd 4,711.26 101.21 218.84
KDDL Ltd 4,013.57 94.83 36.54
Goldiam International Ltd 4,004.66 85.59 100.4
Thangamayil Jewellery Ltd 6,235.41 76.05 58.25
PC Jeweller Ltd 8,289.73 68.91 131.36

Note: The list of best gold stocks has been selected based on the market cap of over 4,000 crore and sorted based on 5Y CAGR as of April 01, 2025. 

Overview of Best Gold Stocks in India

1. Sky Gold Ltd

Sky Gold Limited specialises in designing, manufacturing, and marketing gold jewellery. Operating under a B2B model, the company primarily supplies its products to mid-tier jewellers and boutique stores. 

In Q3FY25, Sky Gold achieved a major milestone by onboarding Aditya Birla Novel Jewels’ Indriya, showcasing its ability to handle large-scale premium projects. Additionally, the company is actively strengthening its distribution network in Singapore to enhance its export revenue.

Key metrics:

  • Earning per Share (EPS): ₹6.71
  • Return On Equity (ROE): 28.16%

 

2. KDDL Ltd

KDDL specialises in manufacturing watch components such as dials, hands, and precision engineering products under its brand, Eigen. 

In Q3FY25, the company’s Bracelet division delivered a strong performance, with expectations of further improvement. Additionally, precision engineering contributed 40% to the company’s revenue in Q3FY25 and 38% over the first nine months of FY25.

Key metrics:

  • EPS: ₹176.92
  • ROE: 70.84%

3. Goldiam International Ltd

Goldiam International Ltd specialises in manufacturing and exporting gold and diamond jewellery to global retailers. 

In Q3FY25, lab-grown diamond jewellery accounted for 80% of the company’s export revenue, a significant increase from 58% in Q3FY24. As of December 31, 2024, the company had an order book worth ₹1,750 million, which is expected to be fulfilled within the next 3-4 months.

Key metrics:

  • EPS: ₹5.87
  • ROE: 20.22%

4. Thangamayil Jewellery Limited

Thangamayil Jewellery Limited runs a network of retail jewellery stores across multiple districts in Tamil Nadu, which accounts for 40% of India’s total gold consumption. 

In FY24, the company achieved a record turnover of ₹3,82,678 lakhs, along with its highest-ever EBITDA profit exceeding ₹21,777 lakhs.

Key metrics:

  • EPS: ₹42.11
  • ROE: 22.39%

5. PC Jeweller Limited

PC Jeweller is involved in the manufacturing, sale, and trade of gold jewellery, diamond-studded jewellery, and silver products. The company operates across multiple geographical regions.

In Q3 FY25, PC Jeweller reported a revenue of ₹638.73 crore, up from ₹504.97 crore in Q2 FY25. The net profit for the quarter stood at ₹146.21 crore, compared to ₹178.97 crore in the previous quarter. 

Key metrics:

  • EPS: ₹0.56
  • ROE: 10.49%

Best Gold Stocks in India in April 2025 – 1 year Return Basis

Name ↓1Y Return (%)
Sky Gold and Diamonds Ltd 218.84
PC Jeweller Ltd 131.36
Goldiam International Ltd 100.4
Thangamayil Jewellery Ltd 58.25
KDDL Ltd 36.54

Note: The list of best gold stocks has been selected based on the market cap of over 4,000 crore and sorted based on 1-year return as of April 01, 2025. 

 

Best Gold Stocks in India in April 2025 – Market Cap Basis

Name ↓Market Cap (₹ Crore)
Titan Company Ltd 2,71,396.68
Kalyan Jewellers India Ltd 48,134.17
PC Jeweller Ltd 8,289.73
P N Gadgil Jewellers Ltd 6,853.60
Thangamayil Jewellery Ltd 6,235.41

Note: The list of best gold stocks has been selected based on the market cap of over 4,000 crore and sorted based on the market cap as of April 01, 2025. 

Gold Demand in India

Total gold demand, including OTC investments, saw a 1% year-on-year rise in Q4, reaching a new quarterly high and contributing to a record annual total of 4,974 tonnes. Annual investment surged to a four-year high of 1,180 tonnes, reflecting a 25% growth. Gold ETFs played a crucial role, as 2024 marked the first year since 2020, where holdings remained largely stable, in contrast to the significant outflows of the previous three years. However, gold jewellery consumption declined by 11% year-on-year to 1,877 tonnes as buyers opted for smaller quantities. Despite this, overall spending on gold jewellery increased by 9%, reaching USD 144 billion.

Conclusion

Investing in gold stocks provides a strategic opportunity to gain exposure to the precious metals market while capitalising on the growth potential of mining companies. While gold is traditionally viewed as a safe-haven asset during economic volatility, gold stocks offer the added advantage of benefiting from operational efficiencies and expansion opportunities within the industry.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Closing Bell: Indian Markets Fall Over 1% on April 1, 2025: Sensex Down 1.80%, Nifty50 Drops 1.50%

On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Indian equity indices experienced a steep decline, dropping over 1% on the first trading day of the new financial year, FY26. The market sell-off was driven by growing concerns surrounding US President Donald Trump’s announcement of reciprocal tariffs.

Sensex and Nifty50 Fall Significantly

The 30-share Sensex plummeted by 1,390.41 points, or 1.80%, ending the day at 76,024.51. It traded within a range of 77,487.05 to 75,912.18 during the session.

Similarly, the Nifty50 dropped by 353.65 points, or 1.50%, to close at 23,165.70, with the day’s highest point being 23,565.15 and the lowest at 23,136.40.

Top Gainers and Losers

Except for Zomato, IndusInd Bank, and State Bank of India, all other Sensex stocks ended lower. HCL Tech, Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, and Infosys suffered the biggest losses, which extended up to 3.66%.

Broader Market and Sectoral Impact

Both Nifty Midcap100 and Nifty Smallcap100 indices fell, dropping 0.86% and 0.70%, respectively. 

Sector-wise, all indices except Nifty Media and Oil & Gas closed in the red, with losses reaching up to 3.11%. The IT, financial services, banking, real estate, and consumer durables sectors were particularly hit hard.

Volatility Increases

The India VIX, a measure of market volatility, surged by 8.37%, closing at 13.78 points, reflecting increased market uncertainty.

Oil Prices

As of April 01, 2025, at 03:55 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $75.05, up by 0.37%.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

 

Nifty Bank Index Falls 1.25% on April 01, IndusInd Bank Leads Gains on April 1, 2025

The Nifty Bank Index, which represents the most liquid and large-capitalised banking stocks in India, is an essential benchmark for investors to gauge the performance of the Indian banking sector. As of April 1, 2025, the Nifty Bank Index stands at 50,922.35, marking a decline of 642.50 points or -1.25% from the previous session.

Market Overview

At 12:20 PM IST on April 1, the Nifty Bank Index showed a dip, with Nifty Bank at 50,922.35 and other major market data reflecting similar downturns. The market’s movement from 11:00 AM to 12:20 PM saw fluctuations, with the index reaching a high of 50,950 and a low of 50,825 during the trading window. Investors remain watchful of these movements as the market continues to adjust to ongoing financial events.

Top Gainers and Losers in Nifty Bank Index

Among the top gainers in the banking sector, IndusInd Bank (INDUSINDBK) surged by 4.30%, trading at ₹677.80. Other notable gainers include IDFC First Bank with a 3.57% increase, reaching ₹56.92, and Canara Bank (CANBK) at ₹89.86, up by 0.97%.

In contrast, the top losers in the sector remained relatively stable with smaller fluctuations, including Bank of Baroda (BANKBARODA) at ₹228.71 with a marginal increase of 0.08% and PNB (Punjab National Bank) at ₹96.20, up by 0.07%.

Performance 

The Nifty Bank Index has shown a price return of 1.39% over the past year, 9.42% over three years, and 16.90% over 5 years. It also offers a dividend yield of 2.2%, with a P/E ratio of 13.18 and a P/B ratio of 1.01, making it an attractive option for investors looking for both growth and income.

Top Constituents by Weight

The Nifty Bank Index is heavily weighted towards a few key players in the Indian banking sector. The top constituents, based on weightage, include HDFC Bank Ltd. at 28.27%, ICICI Bank Ltd. at 25.38%, and Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. at 8.53%. Other significant players include State Bank of India at 8.51%, Axis Bank Ltd. at 8.40%, and Federal Bank Ltd. at 3.81%. These stocks dominate the index and play a major role in shaping its overall performance.

Conclusion

On April 1, 2025, the Nifty Bank Index faced a decline of 1.25%, reflecting broader market fluctuations. Despite the downturn, IndusInd Bank stood out with a notable 4.30% rise, showcasing resilience in the sector. 

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

IndusInd Bank Share Price Rise Over 3% Amid Loan Transfers and Accounting Concerns

IndusInd Bank share price is trading at ₹674.00, up by ₹24.15 (3.72%) as of 12:10 PM IST on April 1, as reports emerged about the bank’s recent loan transactions. The bank has transferred high-rated corporate loans to private banks like Federal Bank and ICICI Bank to strengthen its liquidity position. These loans were acquired at an interest rate of 7.5-8% through the Inter-Bank Participation Certificate (IBPC) market, as per sources.

Accounting Issues Raise Governance Concerns

Despite the stock’s gain, investors remain cautious due to ongoing concerns over accounting lapses that may have reduced IndusInd Bank’s net worth by ₹2,100 crore. 

RBI has instructed IndusInd Bank to fully implement remedial actions by March 31, 2025 (Q4FY25). Investors are also awaiting the PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) report, which is expected to reveal the actual losses incurred due to these discrepancies.

Potential Risks and Impact on Deposits

Market analysts fear that governance concerns may lead to a loss of investor confidence and a potential withdrawal of deposits. If the external audit uncovers further discrepancies, the bank may have to increase provisions, restate financials, and undergo further regulatory scrutiny.

Microfinance Portfolio Under Pressure

IndusInd Bank’s microfinance portfolio is also facing challenges. Credit slippages have pushed the 30-90 days past due (DPD) bucket to 4%, leading to higher credit costs. The situation is particularly concerning in Karnataka, where collection efficiency has weakened due to regulatory changes.

The Karnataka ordinance, implemented in February 2025, could result in lower collections and increased defaults. However, the bank has limited exposure in affected districts, as Karnataka accounts for only 13% of its microfinance portfolio.

CEO Transition and Future Strategy

The RBI’s decision to extend CEO Sumant Kathpalia’s term by only 1 year has also drawn attention. While the bank will continue operations as usual, investors are keen to see how the new CEO, once appointed, will address governance concerns and revive growth.

About IndusInd Bank Limited

IndusInd Bank Limited, established in 1994, is a public-sector commercial bank operating under the Banking Regulation Act of 1949. It offers a broad range of banking products and financial services to corporate and retail clients and treasury operations. The bank operates across India, including in International Financial Service Centres.

Conclusion

IndusInd Bank is navigating a challenging phase, balancing liquidity management through loan transfers while addressing governance issues. Investors remain cautious, awaiting regulatory updates and the PwC report’s findings, which will likely determine the bank’s next course of action.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

DA Arrears for Central Government Employees: Payment Date, Expected Amount and More

The central government has approved a 2% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for government employees and pensioners. This decision, taken on March 28 in a cabinet meeting chaired by PM Narendra Modi, will benefit over 1 crore employees and pensioners. The new DA rate will be effective from January 1, 2025.

When Will Employees Receive DA Arrears?

The announcement of the DA hike was delayed this time. Usually, such increases are announced before Holi or Diwali. As a result, employees will not only receive the revised DA in their April 2025 salary but also receive arrears for the months of January, February, and March. This means that employees and pensioners will get 3 months’ worth of pending DA payments along with their April salary or pension.

Lowest DA Hike in 7 Years

This 2% DA hike is the lowest in the past 7 years. In previous years, DA was typically increased by 3% or 4%. The last increase, announced for the July-December 2024 period, raised DA from 50% to 53%. With the new hike, DA will now be 55%.

How Much Will Salary and Pension Increase?

Under the 7th Pay Commission, the minimum basic salary of a central government employee is ₹18,000. A 2% DA increase will result in an additional ₹360 per month. Over 3 months (January to March 2025), this amounts to ₹1,080 in arrears.

For pensioners receiving a minimum basic pension of ₹9,000, the arrears for 3 months will be ₹540. This amount will be added to their April 2025 pension.

First DA Hike After the 8th Pay Commission Announcement

This is the first DA hike following the announcement of the 8th Pay Commission on January 16, 2025. The commission is likely to submit its recommendations by 2026, which will determine future salary and pension increases for government employees and retirees.

What’s Next for Central Government Employees?

The government will declare the next DA hike for July-December 2025 around October-November this year. Once the 8th Pay Commission’s recommendations are implemented, DA will be reset to zero and included in the basic salary.

For now, the increased DA and three months’ arrears in April 2025 will provide financial relief to employees and pensioners. Meanwhile, the government is expected to announce the names of the members of the 8th Pay Commission soon. The commission’s report, which could take 15-18 months to prepare, will play an important role in deciding future salary and pension hikes.

Conclusion

The 2% DA hike and arrears will bring financial relief to employees and pensioners in April. With the 8th Pay Commission in progress, future salary hikes will be closely watched.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Aditya Birla Capital Merges Aditya Birla Finance to Form a Larger NBFC

On March 31, 2025, Aditya Birla Capital Limited (ABCL) completed the merger of its wholly owned subsidiary, Aditya Birla Finance Limited (ABFL), into itself. This follows the approval of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Ahmedabad, on March 24, 2025. The merger officially takes effect on April 1, 2025, with the appointed date set as April 1, 2024.

Approval Process and Leadership Appointments

The boards of ABCL and ABFL first approved the merger on March 11, 2024. It has since received approvals from shareholders, creditors, regulatory bodies, and authorities such as SEBI, RBI, and the Stock Exchanges.

As part of the transition, the board has appointed:

  • Ms. Vishakha Mulye as Managing Director & CEO 
  • Mr. Rakesh Singh as Executive Director & CEO (NBFC) 

These appointments are subject to regulatory approvals. Additionally, Mr Nagesh Pinge and Mr Sunil Srivastav will join as Independent Directors.

Commenting on the merger, Mr Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, stated that India’s financial sector is growing rapidly, and Aditya Birla Capital has played an important role in this expansion. The merger will help the company offer a wider range of financial products and contribute to economic growth.

Benefits of the Merger

  1. Simplified Corporate Structure: The merger reduces the number of legal entities within the group, making operations more streamlined. 
  2. Stronger Financial Position: ABCL will transform from a Core Investment Company into an operating NBFC, giving it direct access to capital. 
  3. Enhanced Stakeholder Value: The merger will lead to operational synergies, enabling sustainable growth and benefiting investors. 
  4. Greater Efficiency: A unified structure will improve decision-making and reduce regulatory compliance burdens.

Business Performance

As of December 31, 2024, ABCL manages:

  • Assets under management: ₹5.03 lakh crore 
  • Lending book: ₹1.46 lakh crore 
  • Gross written premium (Life & Health Insurance): ₹16,942 crore (9M FY25) 
  • Consolidated revenue: ₹28,376 crore (9M FY25) 
  • Profit after tax: ₹2,468 crore (9M FY25) 

ABCL operates 1,482 branches across India and has a network of over 200,000 agents and channel partners.

About Aditya Birla Capital Limited

ABCL is a leading non-deposit-taking NBFC and the financial services arm of the Aditya Birla Group. Through its subsidiaries and joint ventures, it offers services in loans, investments, insurance, and payments. The company is part of the US$66 billion Aditya Birla Group, which has a global presence and a workforce of over 187,000 employees across 100 nationalities.

As of April 1, 2025, at 11:29 AM IST, Aditya Birla Capital share price (NSE: ABCAPITAL) is trading at ₹181.54, down 1.91% (-₹3.53) for the day. The stock opened at ₹183.07, reached a high of ₹185.82, and hit a low of ₹181.00. Over the past 52 weeks, the stock has touched a high of ₹246.90 and a low of ₹149.01.

Conclusion

The merger marks a significant milestone for Aditya Birla Capital, strengthening its position in India’s financial sector. With a unified structure, the company aims to drive long-term growth, improve operational efficiency, and expand its financial offerings, benefiting customers and investors alike.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

 

Big Financial Changes from April 1: Tax Slabs, Pension Rules, UPI Updates and More

Starting April 1, 2025, several new financial and tax rules will come into effect. These changes, announced in the Union Budget 2025 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, will impact your income, banking, investments, and spending habits. Here’s what you need to know:

No Income Tax for Earnings Up to ₹12 Lakh

The revised tax slabs under the new tax regime mean that income up to ₹12 lakh will now be tax-free. Additionally, a standard deduction of ₹75,000 ensures that salaried employees earning up to ₹12.75 lakh annually will pay zero tax.

Inactive UPI Accounts Will Be Deactivated

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced that UPI accounts linked to mobile numbers that have not been used for a long time will be deactivated. To avoid service disruption, ensure your number is active and updated before April 1.

Changes in Credit Card Reward Points

Holders of SBI SimplyCLICK, Air India SBI Platinum, and Axis Bank Vistara credit cards will experience changes in their reward structures. These modifications are part of the ongoing merger of Air India and Vistara.

New Unified Pension Scheme Begins

The new Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) will replace the old pension system, benefiting around 23 lakh central government employees. Those with over 25 years of service will receive 50% of their average basic salary from the past 12 months as pension.

Stricter GST Rules for Businesses

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) portal will now require multi-factor authentication for login. Also, e-way bills can only be generated using documents issued within the last 180 days.

Higher GST on Luxury Hotel Stays

Hotels charging over ₹7,500 per night will be classified as ‘Specified Premises.’ Restaurants in these hotels will now attract an 18% GST rate, though input tax credit benefits will be available.

Revised Minimum Balance Rules in Banks

Major banks such as SBI, PNB, and Canara Bank will enforce new minimum balance rules. Customers failing to maintain the required balance from April 1 may face penalties.

PAN-Aadhaar Linking Required for Dividend Payouts

Investors must link their PAN with Aadhaar by March 31 to continue receiving dividend payouts. Those who fail to do so will face higher tax deductions at source (TDS) and may lose tax credit benefits in Form 26AS.

KYC Mandatory for Mutual Funds and Demat Accounts

To keep mutual fund and demat accounts active, investors must complete re-verification of their nominee details starting in April.

New Positive Pay System for Cheques Above ₹50,000

To prevent fraud, banks will verify cheque details electronically before processing payments above ₹50,000 under the Positive Pay system.

Higher Home Loan Limits Under Priority Lending

Homebuyers can now avail of higher loan amounts under the Priority Sector Lending scheme: ₹50 lakh in metro cities, ₹45 lakh in mid-tier towns, and ₹35 lakh in smaller cities.

Increased TCS Limit for Foreign Transactions

The Tax Collected at Source (TCS) limit for foreign travel, high-value transactions, and investments has been raised from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh per year.

Act Now to Avoid Penalties

These changes could significantly affect your financial planning. Ensure compliance to avoid penalties and maximise benefits under the new rules.

Conclusion

With these financial changes taking effect from April 1, 2025, it’s essential to review your tax planning, banking, and investment strategies. Ensure compliance to avoid penalties and make the most of new benefits.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Govt Keeps NSC, SCSS, Sukanya Samriddhi, PPF Interest Rates Unchanged for Apr-Jun 2025

The central government has decided to keep the interest rates on small savings schemes, such as the Public Provident Fund (PPF) and National Savings Certificate (NSC), unchanged for the first quarter of the financial year 2025-26 (April to June 2025).

In a notification issued on March 28, 2025, the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) confirmed that the interest rates applicable from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025, will remain the same as those for the previous quarter, January to March 2025.

Interest Rates for Small Savings Schemes (April to June 2025)

The interest rates for small savings schemes will remain unchanged for the April-June 2025 quarter. The key rates for popular schemes are as follows:

  • Public Provident Fund (PPF) – 7.1%
  • Post Office Savings Deposit – 4%
  • Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana – 8.2%
  • Three-Year Fixed Deposit – 7.1%
  • Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) – 8.2%
  • Five-Year Recurring Deposit (RD) – 6.7%

PPF and NSC Remain Popular for Long-Term Savings

The PPF and NSC continue to be widely preferred by investors looking for secure investment options with steady returns. The PPF interest rate of 7.1% remains unchanged, making it an suitable option for long-term financial planning.

Meanwhile, deposits under the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, a scheme designed to support girl child education and financial security, will continue to offer 8.2% interest, one of the highest among small savings schemes.

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme Offers Higher Returns

SCSS will also retain its 8.2% interest rate for the April-June quarter of FY26. This scheme is designed to provide financial security to senior citizens, offering higher returns compared to other savings options.

Additionally, a three-year fixed deposit will continue with an interest rate of 7.1%, while a five-year recurring deposit (RD) will offer 6.7% interest.

Government Reviews Interest Rates Every Quarter

The government revises interest rates every quarter on small savings schemes based on market conditions and other macro-economic factors. These schemes are mainly operated through post offices and banks, providing safe and stable investment options for individuals across the country.

It is worth noting that the interest rates remained unchanged for the January-March 2025 quarter as well, indicating stability in government-backed savings instruments.

Conclusion

The decision to maintain interest rates for small savings schemes ensures stability for investors seeking secure returns. With quarterly reviews, future changes will depend on economic conditions.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Bank Holidays 2025: Are Banks Open Today, April 1, 2025?

As per the RBI Holiday Calendar 2025, most banks in India will remain closed today, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, except in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya. Throughout April, banks will be closed for up to 15 days due to public holidays, including the second and fourth Saturdays and Sundays.

Why Are Banks Closed Today?

If you are wondering, “Are banks open today?”, the answer is that banks across India are closed on April 1 due to the year-end bank closing. Financial institutions use this day to finalise their accounts for the financial year 2024-25 (FY25). They reconcile yearly transactions, update records, and prepare financial statements for the new fiscal year.

Additionally, banks in Jharkhand are closed today for Sarhul, a spring festival that marks the beginning of the new year. This year, Sarhul coincides with the year-end closing, making it a 1 April 2025 bank holiday in the state.

ATM and Online Banking Remain Operational

Despite bank branches being closed, ATM and online banking services will function as usual. Customers can still perform online transactions, bill payments, and other digital banking services without any disruption. If you need to visit a bank branch, it is advisable to plan ahead to avoid inconvenience.

Conclusion

Since April 1, 2025, is a bank holiday, customers should plan their in-branch transactions accordingly. However, digital banking services and ATMs will continue to operate without disruptions.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.