Finance-Economy-News-The Economic Times 
Govt plans to stick to budgeted capex, exit non-strategic areas
India plans to keep its capital spending high in FY27 to support economic growth. Officials stated the government will continue its planned expenditure despite global challenges. The focus is on priority sectors like urban infrastructure and railways. The government also aims to encourage private sector growth by exiting non-strategic areas.
April saw India's Goods and Services Tax collections soar to an impressive Rs 2.42 lakh crore, showcasing an 8.7% growth from the previous year. This remarkable figure underscores the strength of the economy, bolstered by substantial import revenues.
RBI accelerates gold repatriation as global trust wanes
The Reserve Bank of India is bringing home nearly 77% of its gold reserves by March 2026. This significant move accelerates the onshoring of bullion. The central bank has already repatriated a large portion of its gold. This action follows global events that raised concerns about storing sovereign assets abroad. Many countries are now repatriating their gold.
EPFO may raise minimum pension under EPS-95; settles 83.1 million claims in 2025-26
Labour and employment minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Wednesday, said that the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) settled 6.103 million claims in April 2026, with nearly 74% of PF advance claims processed in auto mode and 98.70% of total claims settled in less than 20 days, on the back of EPFO 3.0, a digital overhaul of the retirement fund body designed for instant, paperless PF withdrawals and faster automated claim settlements.
SBI calls for structural measures to manage rupee depreciation, inflation risks and BoP deficit
India faces significant economic challenges. The rupee's depreciation is fueling imported inflation and straining the balance of payments. Experts warn of a widening current account deficit in the coming years. A structural policy response is crucial to control these risks and ensure price stability. Relying solely on currency movements is not a sustainable strategy.
Financial inclusion 2.0 road map set for review this week
This week, the Finance Ministry is set to evaluate the advancements in financial inclusion, laying the groundwork for Financial Inclusion 2.0. Officials will scrutinize existing initiatives such as the Atal Pension Yojana.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman pushes unified KYC framework, asks Sebi to lead
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called for a single know-your-customer system across the financial sector. She asked the Securities and Exchange Board of India to lead this initiative. The minister also urged Sebi to focus on future risks. These include artificial intelligence misuse and cyber threats. A strong defense against cyberattacks is crucial for market stability and public trust.
India's financial system and external sector remain resilient despite global volatility and capital outflows: RBI Bulletin
The RBI noted that key external sector vulnerability indicators "remained contained" and foreign exchange reserves continued to remain "comfortable" even amid heightened global uncertainty.
India assured DTAA tax benefits will continue after Supreme Court ruling, Mauritius Cabinet Note says
India has assured Mauritius that it will uphold benefits under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement. This comes after a Supreme Court ruling raised concerns. India has softened tax regulations regarding the General Anti-Avoidance Rule for older investments. This move aims to provide certainty to foreign investors and private equity funds on tax matters.
India approves Rs 30 billion for Maldives under SAARC currency swap
India has approved a Rs 30 billion currency swap for the Maldives. This reaffirms New Delhi's role as a key financial partner. The Maldives also settled a previous $400 million swap. This facility will support economic stability amid regional challenges. India's support strengthens ties and regional financial cooperation.
India's digital currency push targets its leaky welfare system
India is piloting its digital rupee, the e-rupee, for welfare payments. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and reduce corruption in government subsidies. Farmers like Samadhan Sonawane are receiving funds directly for farm equipment. Similar trials are underway for food distribution. The e-rupee offers programmable features to ensure funds are used as intended.
Clearing Corporation of India Ltd eyes AI-led, resilient market infra growth
Future financial markets require enhanced agility, intelligence, and integration. CCIL Chairman Rajeshwar Rao highlighted the need to manage cyber threats and supply chain disruptions. Emerging technologies like AI and machine learning will boost efficiency and resilience. CCIL aims to create a unified workspace for trading and risk management. Expansion into new services and global reach are key objectives.
The K-pop cash flow: South Korean beats power India's FDI remix
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's visit to New Delhi signals India's strategic push for large-scale FDI in advanced manufacturing and technology. Discussions focused on deepening capital flows, particularly in semiconductors, shipbuilding, and energy, aiming to position India as a preferred investment base amidst global supply chain shifts.
Multiple states to borrow Rs 16,900 crore through RBI SGS auction on April 21
Multiple state governments are set to raise a combined Rs 16,900 crore through a revised auction of State Government Securities on April 21. The Reserve Bank of India will conduct the auction on its E-Kuber platform, featuring fresh issuances and re-issues with varying tenors. Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Telangana are among the participating states.
Singapore emerges as top FDI source in Apr-Dec FY26, high inflows from tax havens
Singapore emerged as the top source of FDI equity inflows into India during April-December FY26, contributing $17.6 billion. The US and Mauritius followed, with significant investments also noted from tax havens like the Cayman Islands and Cyprus. Computer Software & Hardware and the Services Sector were the most attractive investment destinations.