Finance-Economy-News-The Economic Times - Seite 4 
Digital gold may come under RBI, Sebi oversight; physical backing proposed
Discussions are underway to tighten digital gold rules, requiring physical bullion backing for every unit. The government is considering joint oversight by the Reserve Bank of India and Sebi. Digital gold, managing approximately three billion dollars in assets, is seen as an unregulated segment. Stakeholders agree that bringing this popular product under regulatory supervision is urgently needed.
Retailers are strongly opposing a proposed merchant discount rate on UPI payments. This new charge will significantly impact their already very thin net profit margins. Industry associations are petitioning the finance ministry to scrap the proposed transaction fee. They highlight that this fee will erode the survival margins of many small businesses. The proposed charge is set to be implemented from October fifteenth.
Finance Ministry rejects US pressure claims over new UPI MDR, says RuPay has no special edge
India's Finance Ministry rejects claims of US influence on UPI payment charges. The new framework prioritizes RuPay credit cards for UPI transactions. This move aims to foster domestic competition and create a sustainable revenue model. Small merchants and certain transactions will remain exempt from the new charges. The government emphasizes protecting India's electronic payment ecosystem sovereignty.
MDR on UPI transactions faces PIL in Supreme Court
A Public Interest Litigation challenges the government's new UPI charges. These charges apply to merchant payments exceeding two thousand rupees. The petition argues these new fees will ultimately affect ordinary citizens. Businesses might pass these additional costs directly to consumers. The Supreme Court will now review this significant financial move.
EPF wage ceiling hiked to Rs 25,000: How much employees gain and what it costs the government
In a significant move, the government has lifted the provident fund wage ceiling to Rs 25,000 monthly, bringing over 51 lakh new employees into the fold of social security. This adjustment is projected to cost the Centre Rs 11,339 crore annually. As a result, more individuals will benefit from mandatory coverage, but employers should prepare for an increase in obligatory contributions once the changes take effect.