TAX CHANGES
FICCI makes recommendations to FM ahead of Budget 2027-28, highlights LTCG exemption, TDS relief and faster tax appeals
FICCI has recommended the restoration of long-term capital gains tax exemption on listed shares in Budget 2027-28. The organization highlighted concerns regarding the withdrawal of foreign portfolio investments and the impact of capital gains tax. Additionally, it requested the government to implement lighter TDS rules and resolve backlog issues in tax appeals. FICCI emphasized the need for measures to provide certainty to investors over the long term.
Firm It Up, Don't Junk It: India needs a more predictable capital gains tax regime to deepen equity markets
India's capital markets have seen significant changes, with millions of households participating in equity investing. The current tax framework needs to evolve to encourage better investment behavior among participants. A predictable and neutral tax system can foster deeper domestic participation in capital markets. Implementing a graduated tax rate could motivate investors to hold their investments longer. Adjusting the capital gains tax structure could align taxation with economic returns for investors.
Pull it, not just for better FPIs: Scrap FPI capital gains tax to boost inflows, strengthen rupee and cut fiscal deficit
Scrapping the long-term capital gains tax could significantly enhance foreign portfolio investment in India. This move would likely lead to a stronger rupee and reduced fiscal deficit for the government. Historical data suggests that foreign capital flows have a direct correlation with the value of the rupee. The elimination of this tax could also support higher valuations and better disinvestment proceeds.
SC says 1974 ruling on states' power to levy additional sales tax continues to hold
The Supreme Court held that a previous ruling from 1974 regarding additional sales tax remains applicable today. It determined that the legal question raised was now of no practical significance due to legislative changes. The Goods and Services Tax law implementation in 2017 contributed to this determination. The court ruled that state legislatures' ability to impose surcharges is governed by existing precedents.
2026 US election results: JB Pritzker, Illinois governor touted as potential candidate for 2028 presidential race, defeats Republican Darren Bailey to win third term
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has won a third term, defeating Republican challenger Darren Bailey in the midterm election. This victory enhances Pritzker's visibility and potential as a presidential candidate for the 2028 election. He has recently visited key early primary states, including New Hampshire and South Carolina, to bolster his national profile. Additionally, Pritzker has criticized President Trump's actions regarding the National Guard and immigration policies.
Social Security benefits warning: Will retirees lose $500 a month when the retirement trust fund runs out in 2032? What the latest forecast means for your monthly checks
The Social Security retirement fund is projected to exhaust its reserves by the end of 2032 without any legislative intervention. If changes are not made, monthly benefits for retirees might face substantial reductions, estimated between 22% and 26%. This impending decline is attributed to demographic shifts like an increasing elderly population and dwindling birth rates. Lawmakers have a limited timeframe to tackle these pressing issues before retirees experience significant cuts.
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LTCG tax relief for these mutual fund investors proposed by SEBI; know how switching funds for portfolio rebalancing can save tax
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has put forth a proposal to exempt long-term capital gains tax for investors who switch mutual funds. This change if accepted by the government would enable individuals to adjust their portfolios without facing tax penalties, promoting more strategic reinvestment.
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Wednesday
Indian equities rallied nearly 2%, with Sensex gaining 1,225 points and Nifty rising 370 points. Falling crude prices, renewed FII buying, resilient earnings and expectations of LTCG tax changes boosted sentiment, adding nearly Rs 4 lakh crore to market capitalisation.
Angel One, CDSL, BSE, other capital market stocks jump up to 8%. 3 reasons behind the rally
Capital market stocks rallied up to 8% as hopes of LTCG tax relief, renewed FII buying and a broader market recovery lifted investor sentiment. The Nifty Capital Markets index climbed over 3% to a seven-week high.
We will consider the call for review of LTCG tax: Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman
"The circumstances have changed and, therefore, the voices of concern are louder,'' she said at a media event, in reference to reports that her administration has received suggestions to review levies on long-term capital gains (LTCG) for overseas investors. "I quite appreciate that. So, I'll consider all this... Our growth is very important, where people are putting their very best, we are able to see sustained 7(%)-plus growth.''
Government has fiscal headroom to absorb Rs 50,000 crore revenue loss from LTCG tax abolition: SBI Research
SBI Research indicates that eliminating the long-term capital gains tax may lead to a modest revenue decline, estimated to be between Rs 40,000-50,000 crore for FY28. The suggested reforms involve raising the exemption limits and introducing lower tax rates based on extended holding durations. Furthermore, an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax is expected to help mitigate some revenue losses, thereby fostering foreign investment and enhancing market confidence.
LTCG abolition may cost just Rs 40,000–50,000 crore, SBI estimates show
SBI Research estimates that abolishing long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax would cost the government just Rs 40,000–50,000 crore in FY27, far below the Rs 1.3 lakh crore collected in FY25. Weaker stock market returns and sustained foreign investor outflows have significantly reduced expected collections, suggesting the move may not derail the government's fiscal consolidation plans.
Budget 2027: Customs duty relief on 118 goods under review
The Indian government is currently reviewing customs duty concessions applicable to 118 products set to expire. This review involves input from respective line ministries and industry stakeholders regarding these exemptions. Goods under review include materials for power projects and certain medical devices. A focus is on correcting the inverted duty structure to support local manufacturing initiatives. The outcomes of this review will influence the upcoming budget for 2027-28.
Lowering LTCG isn't a magic bullet
A reduction in Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) tax could uplift sentiment in India's equity market, especially as foreign investors withdraw. The current landscape is shaped more by external economic influences than tax adjustments. The reinstatement of LTCG has rendered India less appealing compared to rivals like Hong Kong and Singapore. A strategically planned tax cut may provide clearer policy stability for investors while preserving fiscal responsibility.
FM Sitharaman acknowledges foreign investor anxiety, says she will consider voices seeking tax changes before Budget
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman acknowledged concerns from investors regarding potential tax changes to support equity markets. She emphasized that while taxation is vital, India's economic indicators remain robust and positive. Sitharaman highlighted the necessity for capital expenditure to sustain economic growth and fiscal prudence. On welfare, she noted significant improvements in access to essential services contributing to decreased poverty levels.
Indians turn to side hustles, freelancing as non-salary income rises: ClearTax
Indians are increasingly earning from non-salary sources like trading and freelancing as reported by ClearTax. The percentage of self-filers reporting such income grew significantly from previous years. Data shows that young individuals are entering investment opportunities earlier than ever before. Additionally, women's participation in capital gains and higher income brackets has increased noticeably. This reflects a significant change in financial habits and diversification of income sources among taxpayers.
Rs 3.2 crore found in blue drums buried in UP village; police probe brothers' Mumbai, Pune links
The recovery of Rs 3.2 crore from three buried blue drums in Uttar Pradesh's Nawabganj has prompted investigators to examine two brothers' property purchases and financial links in Maharashtra. Their changing statements have complicated efforts to trace the cash, while excavation has resumed amid suspicion that more money may be buried at the site.
How are equity investments taxed in India? A guide to capital gains tax
In a bid to invigorate domestic and foreign mutual fund investments, India's Securities and Exchange Board has put forth recommendations for tax concessions. These proposals are designed to boost post-tax returns, particularly as market performance has been behind that of emerging counterparts. The current capital gains tax rates are seen as a hindrance, leading to demands for a review.
Sebi backs removal of LTCG tax for foreign investors: Report
To boost foreign investment interest, India's Securities and Exchange Board has put forth a proposal to scrap long-term capital gains tax for foreign investors and extend tax relief to mutual fund investors. This move is designed to counteract the high capital gains taxes and transaction costs faced by foreign entities, aiming to enhance the overall attractiveness of India's equity market.
Delhi techie couple donates Rs 50 to political party, claims Rs 40 lakh ITR deduction, evades Rs 5.3 crore income tax, faces IT probe
A Delhi-NCR techie couple allegedly claimed Rs 40 lakh in tax deductions after donating just Rs 50 to a political party. An Income Tax Department probe uncovered fabricated donation receipts, a ChatGPT-generated Yale education loan certificate, bogus housing loan claims and undisclosed rental income, estimating tax evasion of Rs 5.3 crore over five years.
GST decriminalisation decisions set benchmark for trust-based governance: CII
The Confederation of Indian Industry praised the GST Council's recent decisions aimed at decriminalising certain offences. The Council recommended raising the prosecution threshold from Rs 1 crore to Rs 5 crore, promoting trust in businesses.
Income Tax 2026: 3 key changes in deductions & exemptions every taxpayer must know
The Finance Act, 2026 outlines significant changes in income tax deductions and exemptions for Tax Year 2026-27. Non-resident individuals will benefit from tax exemptions on foreign-source income for five tax years. Disability pensions are only exempted if individuals are invalided out due to service-related disabilities. Compulsory land acquisition income will also be tax-exempt, clarifying previous ambiguities in the law.
US green card applications face new tax scrutiny; unpaid dues could affect approval and US citizenship
In a move affecting green card applications, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services has altered its stance on tax compliance. Unpaid taxes and unfiled returns could jeopardise an applicant's chances of approval, as immigration officers will closely evaluate tax history. This change extends to US citizens sponsoring relatives and has sparked legal disputes about its conformity to existing regulations.
CBDT tightens merger rules for charity trusts, imposes five-year curbs on changing objectives
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has made it mandatory for organisations merging with another registered non-profit to inform the I-T Department within a prescribed deadline, get their accounts audited and disclose the reasons for the merger. The new rules, notified on October 30, also prevent organisations with regular registration from merging with those holding provisional registration, and vice versa.
GST reforms: Easier registration for small e-commerce sellers, faster refunds to take effect Nov 1
Simplified GST registration processes will benefit small sellers using e-commerce platforms without physical presence in multiple states. The GST portal will offer user-friendly interfaces and clearer documentation requirements for registration applications. Automatic sanctioning of full refund claims for excess balance in electronic cash ledgers will expedite the refund process. Flexibility in post-supply discount taxation will support industries with volume-based incentives and trade schemes.
Money changes from November 1, 2026: Revised PNB credit card charges, increased Indusind Bank fees and ITR deadline; know key changes
Effective November 1, 2026, IndusInd Bank will roll out new fees for any failed savings account transactions. Concurrently, Punjab National Bank will adjust service charges related to credit card transactions. Pensioners must provide their life certificates by November 30, 2026, to continue receiving benefits.
CBIC holds outreach programme in Chandigarh to discuss GST 2.0 reforms with taxpayers
More than 200 taxpayers and industry representatives participated in an outreach programme with CBIC leadership. The engagement aimed to discuss implementation of reforms from the 57th GST Council meeting. Key reforms include a higher threshold for criminal prosecution and improved processes for tax refunds and registration. This initiative underscores the Finance Ministry's commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement. The implemented reforms are set to take effect from April 1, 2027.
Potential LTCG tax cut could revive FIIs’ India bet, says Jefferies: Which stocks may benefit most?
Jefferies sees a potential long-term capital gains tax (LTCG) cut as a possible trigger for foreign investors to return to Indian equities after record outflows. Banks, Reliance Industries, utilities and real estate stocks could be the biggest beneficiaries. Here’s where foreign investors are positioned and what a tax cut could mean.
India to implement changes to GST from November 1
India plans to implement easing rules related to the goods and services tax for post-sale discounts while speeding up provisional refunds for businesses facing inverted duty structures from November 1, according to a government notification dated October 26.
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