Income Tax Deadlines
The end of December marked several crucial deadlines for Indian taxpayers. December 31st was the final date for linking PAN with Aadhaar, filing belated
ITRs, and submitting GST returns. Individuals who missed the deadline for the Assessment Year 2025-26 were still able to file, but faced consequences like penalties. Moreover, the Income Tax Department urged timely submission of investment proofs to facilitate faster refunds. The MCA extended FY25 annual filings till January 31 without late fees, owing to portal glitches, thus providing relief for businesses.
ITR Filing Insights
The ITR filing landscape saw significant activity. Data revealed that by December 31st, 22.4 lakh updated returns and 26 lakh revised returns had been filed. The government had previously issued an advisory about potential delays in tax refunds towards the year's end. The deadline for revised ITRs for the Assessment Year 2025-26 was crucial for taxpayers seeking to correct any errors. The importance of submitting investment proofs on time was emphasized, as it directly impacted the speed of refund processing. Understanding these aspects helps taxpayers manage their finances more efficiently.
FD Interest Rates
Fixed Deposits (FDs) remain a popular investment choice, with attractive interest rates being offered by several top banks. A comparison of 3-year FD interest rates for 2026 was provided, allowing individuals to assess different offers. Simultaneously, Amazon Pay introduced the option for users to directly open fixed deposits, presenting another convenient avenue for investment. These options cater to individuals seeking secure and reliable investment avenues within the Indian financial market.
Investment Strategies
Beyond traditional FDs, various investment strategies were highlighted. An analysis suggested considering smart moves to boost returns without incurring high risk, thereby expanding the possibilities beyond simply relying on a single FD. Multi-asset funds, encompassing both active and passive approaches, were evaluated to determine which strategy best suits different investment goals. The RBI's SGB 2020-21 Series IX offered an early exit option, yielding returns of over 150%, which was a favourable outcome for investors. Experts also discussed the role of AIFs in NPS, focusing on their potential as an inflation hedge.
Market Updates
Market movements and economic trends shaped the financial narrative. The GST collection in December 2025 showed a 6.1% year-on-year rise, reaching Rs 1.74 lakh crore, indicating continued economic activity. The stock market experienced fluctuations, with the Sensex and Nifty showing decreases on January 8th. The IPO market saw a surge, placing India at the forefront globally, with a projected Rs 4 lakh crore in 2026. Experts also examined why the stock market might be declining and key factors behind the Sensex and Nifty's performance.
Tax-Saving Schemes
For taxpayers seeking exemptions, ICICI Bank launched the Capital Gains Account Scheme. Linking PAN with Aadhaar was a critical requirement, and the article explained who was exempt from this rule, including NRIs, seniors, minors, and joint holders. The ongoing changes in the tax landscape necessitate informed decision-making for efficient tax planning.
Other Financial News
Additional financial insights were provided. The article mentioned personal loan growth in India, which increased by 35% in 2025. It also mentioned a new mutual fund launch by BOI Mutual Fund, focusing on banking and financial services. Zepto filed a DRHP with SEBI, aiming to raise around Rs 11,000 crore, showing significant growth in the quick commerce sector. The article also touched upon the options market and the financial struggles faced by some investors, illustrating the risks involved in different investment avenues.
