AVERAGE SALARY INCREASE
Two major Social Security changes are coming in 2027: Retirees get a 3.6% raise, but some workers will pay $484 more in taxes — who will be affected?
Social Security 2027 changes: Social Security checks will rise 3.6% in 2027. The average retired worker will get $2,170 a month, up $75 from $2,095. SSI recipients will receive the higher payment on December 31, 2026. The Social Security tax limit for workers will rise from $184,500 to $192,300. Employees earning at least $192,300 could pay about $484 more in tax each year.
Behind Bangladesh's garment boom, workers cut food, healthcare as wages fall short
Garment workers in Bangladesh are facing financial struggles due to rising costs of living. Many workers, such as Shilpi Khatun, have seen wages stagnate while expenses continue to rise. Protests erupted recently, demanding an increase in the minimum monthly wage to 30,000 taka. The government plans to revise wages but has not announced the increase yet. The ongoing economic pressures are affecting workers' daily lives and choices.
Economic advancement can’t be judged through a single income figure, other conditions apply
India’s creamy layer debate has renewed focus on whether income alone can measure socioeconomic advancement. The Supreme Court’s March 11 judgment, upheld last Friday, said parental salary cannot be the sole criterion for determining creamy layer status among OBCs; occupational and service status must also be considered.
India's unemployment rate falls to 5.1% in July-September as rural joblessness declines
India's unemployment rate saw a decline to 5.1% from 5.4% in the prior quarter. The decrease in unemployment primarily occurred in rural areas, where it fell to 4.3%. The survey indicated that more individuals were either working or seeking jobs during this period. Women's employment participation also improved, rising to 34.7% from 33.2%. The overall employment figure reached approximately 57.9 crore individuals in India.
Rs 8.02 lakh leave encashment tax exemption denied: Retired employee wins case in ITAT Surat
Retiree Mr. Patel from Bharuch, Gujarat, sought a complete tax exemption on Rs 8.02 lakh of leave encashment. Initially, his company certified only Rs 3 lakh as exempt. The Income Tax Department later imposed tax on an additional Rs 5.02 lakh. To challenge this ruling, Patel approached the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal in Surat, which sided with him, citing the Department's failure to provide justifiable reasons.
Social Security payroll tax cap rises to $192,300 in 2027: How much more will high earners pay from their paychecks, who will be affected, and what does it mean for your take-home pay?
Social Security taxes will take a bigger bite out of some high earners' paychecks in 2027. The taxable income limit is rising to $192,300 from $184,500, meaning another $7,800 of wages will be taxed. Workers earning above the new limit could pay up to $483.60 more next year. The increase comes as retirees are set to receive a 3.6% benefit boost.
- Go To Page 1

These mid-caps have ‘strong buy’ & ‘buy’ recos and upside potential of up to 28%, according to analysts
Global markets on Wednesday celebrated the outcome of the US mid-term election as well as a sharp drop in oil prices. Oil prices, which at the end of last week were at about $118 to the barrel, are now under $95. The hope clearly is that Democrat control of both chambers of the US Congress will pressure the Trump administration to pursue a diplomatic end to the conflict with Iran in the Gulf.

Middle class spending boom in India comes with growing debt bill
Consumer borrowing in India has surged significantly as access to credit has expanded across the population. Individuals like Navjot Singh illustrate the financial burdens incurred from loans that have become widespread among the populace. As interest rates increase, many consumers face a heightened risk of default on their debts. Reports show that borrowing against gold and informal loans has also intensified in recent years.

The business of running a hospital: Balancing profitability, patient trust and scale
A hospital’s financial health depends on more than occupancy and revenue, requiring a careful balance of cost control, cash flow and patient trust.

Dubai in Transit: The megalopolis is trying to shake off nightmarish war months, but caution remains in the air
Dubai is struggling to regain business momentum eight months after Iranian missile strikes disrupted tourism, real estate and other sectors. While tourist arrivals and hotel occupancy have recovered from their March lows, the recovery has stalled amid renewed regional tensions.

8th Pay Commission pension calculator: How Rs 25,000 to Rs 75,000 basic pensions can change at 2.0, 2.25 and 2.57 fitment factors
8th Pay Commission news: The central government has many more pensioners than employees. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced DA and DR hikes that will benefit both employees and pensioners. The 8th Pay Commission will consider various recommendations regarding pension adjustments. Estimates show potential pension increases based on fitment factors of 2.0, 2.25, and 2.57. However, the final decision will be made once the Commission releases its report.

RBI hikes FRB 2034 interest rate to 7.26%: How much can you earn on Rs 5 lakh investment?
The Reserve Bank of India has declared a new interest rate of 7.26% per annum for the Government of India Floating Rate Bond 2034, reflecting an increase from the earlier rate of 6.45%. This updated rate will be effective from October 30, 2026, to April 29, 2027, allowing investors to earn more on their six-monthly coupon payments.

Who sent $2 bn military equipment to Iran past US blockade? More than 5,000 agencies
Iran has developed a clandestine network involving over 5,000 agencies to import military equipment and evade sanctions. This network functions despite ongoing US naval blockades and sanctions since the war began. Extensive investigations reveal significant transactions and military logistics supporting their activities. The secretive agencies have been linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and elite controlled businesses.

‘Facing ‘gerontonomia’, the West’s young opt for political extremes’
Tim Vlandas analyzes the influence of aging populations on electoral politics in advanced capitalist nations like Europe. Older voters display different policy preferences, emphasizing pensions over issues of younger demographics. Consequently, governments often allocate more resources to pension spending rather than investing in education and infrastructure. Young voters may become politically disenchanted, leading to radical shifts towards extreme parties.

These large-, mid- and small-cap stocks can give more than 20% return in 1 year, according to analysts
Here’s one thing that is worth clarifying, because it is in the headlines. Large global technology companies have been announcing heavy spending on AI, and there has been some correction in those stocks because of it. It is natural to worry that this will spill over into the Indian market. It most likely will not.

DA hiked by 3% to 63%: Know the impact of hike on salaries of Level 1-10 central government employees
DA hike news: In a significant update for central government employees, a 63% dearness allowance will be implemented for the period of July to December 2026. This marks a 3% rise in the current allowance, providing enhanced financial assistance. Level 1 employees can expect an increase of Rs 540 in their monthly salary.

Axis Bank to revise savings account charges from December 1, 2026: Free transaction limit to fall; EDGE Rewards Program to end; charges to rise
Axis Bank will implement a new fee structure affecting its domestic and NRI savings accounts. The free cash transaction limit will reduce from four to three transactions or Rs 1 lakh. Minimum balance penalties will also change, particularly for semi-urban and rural accounts due to increased maximum charges. Additionally, the EDGE REWARD program will be discontinued for several account categories.

DR rises by 3% to 63%: How will the hike impact pension, family pension and commuted pension? See calculations for basic pensions of Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000
DR hike: On October 28, 2026, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw heralded a notable 3% rise in dearness relief for pensioners, lifting the rate from 60% to 63%. This increase aims to provide substantial financial support to both regular and family pensioners. Those under the Old and Unified Pensioner Schemes will find their monthly pensions adjusted favorably, enhancing financial well-being for many retirees nationwide.

How AI is changing pay, career growth and the employee deal in India
As AI changes the skills companies need, the relationship between employers and employees is being renegotiated. Career progression, access to training and the way salaries reward new capabilities are becoming central to retaining talent and preparing the workforce for changing roles.

Industrial DA hike for CPSE employees: Rate rises to 59.1% from October 1; check revised rates for 1997, 2007 and 2017 pay scales
The Ministry of Finance announced a revision in the Industrial Dearness Allowance rates for certain CPSE employees. This revision will be applicable starting from October 1, 2026, affecting various pay scales. Employees in board-level and supervisory roles will see an increase in their IDA rates. Different IDA rates will apply for those under distinct pay scales from 1987 to 2017.

Pia Dandiya's $12.7 Million Net Worth: How the Florida Congressional candidate built her career
Pia Dandiya is contesting for a seat in the US House of Representatives for Florida's 22nd district. Her wealth, primarily attributed to her career at Apple, has garnered scrutiny in her campaign. Dandiya's experience spans teaching, public service, and corporate roles, which influence her policy approach. She advocates for economic opportunities and affordability amidst questions about her financial status.

DA hike for central government employees: Can government announce dearness allowance increase on Wednesday?
DA news: More than 55 lakh central government employees are anticipating a dearness allowance hike announcement soon. The hike is expected to be announced following the cabinet meeting scheduled for October 28, 2026. If approved, the DA rate may increase from 60% to an estimated 63%, resulting in salary increases. Employees are hopeful for the announcement after delayed expectations in previous meetings this month.

EPS pension hike: Can EPFO increase minimum monthly pension from Rs 1,000 at its proposed November 19 meeting?
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation may discuss increasing the minimum monthly pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme. A proposal to raise the pension from Rs 1,000 is anticipated during the next Central Board of Trustees meeting.

44% of India’s GCCs now own platforms and AI outcomes: Report
Global Capability Centres in India are transitioning into AI capability hubs, significantly increasing salaries for digital professionals. The focus of GCCs is shifting from execution to innovation and strategic capabilities. Reports indicate that AI talent in India commands a significant wage premium due to higher demand. As GCCs expand their roles, the need for skilled talent in AI and related fields continues to grow.

DA hike announcement: Do central government employees need to wait till next cabinet meeting?
DA hike news: As of now, the central government has not disclosed the dearness allowance hike for July 2026, leaving employees in suspense. Hopes were raised during recent cabinet discussions, yet no announcement was made. The next potential reveal is scheduled for October 28, 2026. Workers are eagerly awaiting this increase, which will directly affect their salaries and ongoing allowances, with arrears also considered for the July-December 2026 timeframe.

Hormuz war risk pushes crude shipping costs sevenfold, squeezes refiners' margins: Goldman Sachs
Global crude oil freight rates are rising due to war-related risks in the Strait of Hormuz and increased ship-to-ship transfers. Goldman Sachs reports that shipping costs are significantly higher than they were a year ago. Asian refiners are particularly pressured, facing potential profit margin reductions as they may pass costs to consumers. The increased freight costs could lead to lower refined fuel output and rising global fuel prices.

DA hike for central government employees: Can Centre announce dearness allowance on October 21, 2026?
DA hike news: Central government employees are eagerly awaiting a long-overdue increase in their dearness allowance, which was expected to take effect on July 1, 2026. The anticipated hike could boost the DA from 60% to 63%. With growing protests urging timely disclosure, the upcoming cabinet meeting may reveal crucial updates for employees and pensioners. Employee federations are applying pressure, prompting the government to address their concerns promptly.

US lawmakers propose raising H-1B salary threshold to nearly $140,000 for some workers
In a significant move, Republican lawmakers are advocating for a new bill that would raise the H-1B visa salary cap to almost $140,000, reflecting necessary updates to outdated regulations dating back to 1998. This change aims to strengthen hiring protections for American workers, as the current threshold of $60,000 permits various exemptions for employers dependent on H-1B visas.

Retired employee received income tax notice for Rs 9.04 lakh leave encashment; she wins case in ITAT Jaipur, know how leave encashment is taxed
Retired employee sent income tax notice for Rs 9.04 lakh leave encashment, she wins case in ITAT Jaipur; Know how leave encashment is taxed for private and government employees in India.
Load More