While repealing the 2025 Directions, RBI clarified that penalties, obligations, and legal proceedings initiated under the earlier framework will continue to apply. This ensures continuity despite the transition to the new 2026 Directions.
The central bank repealed the 2025 Directions governing dividend payouts by Local Area Banks. However, it clarified that investigations, penalties, and obligations arising under the repealed Directions will continue unaffected.
Under the 2026 Directions, dividend payouts by Small Finance Banks cannot exceed 75% of Profit After Tax. The framework links dividend limits to Tier 1 capital ratios to safeguard banks’ capital strength.
The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), through Circular No. IFSCA-CSD0MSC/1/2026-DCS dated March 10, 2026, has amended its earlier “Guidelines on Cyber Security and Cyber Resilience for Regulated Entities in IFSCs” issued on March 10, 2025. The amendment follows representations from regulated entities (REs) highlighting challenges in complying with certain provisions of the original circular. […]
The proposed regulations prescribe timelines, subscription periods, allotment procedures, and monitoring of issue proceeds for rights issues by IFSC-listed entities. The framework seeks to ensure orderly and transparent capital raising.
Rules 307–311 of the Draft Income-tax Rules, 2026 outline how pension funds must purchase annuities, restrict commutation, prevent employer claims on fund money, and ensure employee benefits even if the business closes.
Draft Income-tax Rules 2026 prescribe definitions, trust conditions, investment rules, and limits on employer contributions for approved superannuation funds to ensure proper governance and compliance.
Draft Income-tax Rules 2026 outline procedures for provident fund recognition, penalties for assigning PF interest, and tax treatment when recognition is withdrawn.
Draft Income-tax Rules 2026 require provident fund nominations to favour family members and mandate annual account reporting by trustees and employers to ensure transparency and compliance.
EPFO streamlined the process for transferring pension contributions and nominee payments. The instructions aim to avoid procedural errors and ensure uniform implementation across field offices.
