Higher tax for tobacco: Centre mulls new bill for Parliament’s winter session; compensation cess stays for now

The central government is likely to propose legislation during Parliament’s winter session to implement a tax on tobacco and related products, potentially replacing the existing GST compensation cess levied on these items.The present compensation cess, applied alongside the 28% GST, is expected to remain for a minimum of three months, allowing the government to complete…

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Who could replace Powell? Donald Trump eyes Fed chair post for Hassett, Warsh, Waller; Bessent opts out

President Trump has identified three candidates as frontrunners to replace Jerome Powell as Federal Reserve chair: his advisor Kevin Hassett, former Fed governor Kevin Warsh, and sitting Fed governor Christopher Waller.At the White House, Trump told reporters that Scott Bessent was initially considered, but the Treasury secretary declined interest. “I had four,” Trump said. “Now…

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Gold surges to record high: October futures hit Rs 1.07 lakh on MCX — time to invest?

Gold futures for October delivery have risen substantially, climbing approximately Rs 6,500 within the last month to achieve an unprecedented Rs 1,07,807 per 10 grams on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) on Friday.The upward movement persists despite recent profit collection preceding vital US employment statistics, whilst global economic uncertainty and central bank purchases continue to…

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Investor awareness push: IEPFA panel suggests easing small investor claims, move aimed at faster redressal

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) has received a set of recommendations from a high-level committee that proposes a simplified process for low-value investor claims, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) said on Saturday.According to the ministry, the changes are expected to reduce timelines, enhance transparency, and deliver hassle-free services to investors, PTI…

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GST reforms to boost dairy and fertiliser sectors; lower household costs, aid farmers

The sweeping GST reforms announced this week will give a major push to India’s cooperative and farm sectors by reducing costs, boosting demand, and raising incomes, the Ministry of Cooperation said in a statement.The ministry noted that the reforms will particularly benefit rural enterprises, farmer producer organisations (FPOs), and women-led self-help groups engaged in food…

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GST reform: Nirmala Sitharaman calls overhaul ‘a people’s reform’ touching every family; to boost consumption

Calling the landmark GST overhaul a “people’s reform”, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the sweeping rationalisation of tax rates across nearly 400 products will benefit every family, lower household bills, and boost consumption, giving a fresh push to the economy.In an interview to PTI, Sitharaman emphasised that she would personally monitor whether the benefits of…

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