credit access

IDFC FIRST Bank launched a Business Multiplier Credit Card for entrepreneurs, addressing the gap in credit access for startups. Issued against a fixed deposit, the secured card offers a lower interest rate, zero forex markup, and a 100% credit limit, simplifying financial management for small businesses.

Tripura has made headlines with a groundbreaking reduction in its Infant Mortality Rate, now at just 12 deaths per 1,000 live births—far below the national average. This achievement, driven by advancements in healthcare access, robust antenatal and postnatal support services, and a comprehensive immunisation strategy, represents a monumental leap forward for the health of mothers and children in the region.

Principal Secretary PK Mishra cautioned financial systems against excessive speculation and market instability, emphasizing their connection to the real economy and citizens' lives. He highlighted India's digital public infrastructure, including the JAM trinity and UPI, as transformative forces for financial inclusion and credit access, particularly for underserved populations.

Get smart borrowing tips to improve approval chances, plan repayments better, and secure funds quickly with minimal hassle.

The UAE has launched a new tenant screening system, allowing landlords to check prospective tenants' credit scores. This secure digital platform, a collaboration between Etihad Credit Bureau and UAE PASS, ensures transparent data sharing with tenant consent. It enhances security for landlords, moving beyond traditional checks and bolstering the nation's digital economy.

A new government fund to boost urban development faces challenges in smaller cities. Weak financial reporting and limited capacity in Tier II and III cities may hinder their ability to access market funding, a key requirement for the Urban Challenge Fund. This could slow down much-needed urban investments across India.

In the financial landscape of Bihar, a remarkable milestone was reached as the credit-deposit ratio soared past 60.21% in FY 2025-26, reflecting vigorous economic growth and a surge in citizen confidence. This impressive jump from 44.09% in 2018-19 particularly supports vital areas such as agriculture and MSMEs.

Technological advancements like AI and blockchain are transforming the chartered accountant profession, pushing CAs towards higher-value advisory roles. Data literacy is becoming as crucial as technical accounting knowledge. The ICAI, now the world's second-largest accounting body, is expanding its reach, with demand for the CA course and placement opportunities on the rise.

In a remarkable achievement, Bihar has been crowned the leading state for rural sanitation in eastern India as part of the Swachh Survekshan Gramin 2025. Bhagalpur district emerged as a shining example, receiving special recognition for its exemplary sanitation efforts.

DBT BET Answer Key 2026: The National Testing Agency has released the provisional answer keys, question papers and recorded responses for GAT-B and BET 2026 examinations conducted on May 17, 2026. Candidates can raise objections online till May 24, 2026 by paying a non-refundable fee of Rs 200 per question. The examinations were held across 54 cities for 26,662 registered candidates. NTA stated that challenges submitted by candidates will be reviewed by subject experts before preparation of the final answer key and results.

IIT Roorkee has unveiled the provisional JEE Advanced 2026 answer key on its official website. Aspirants can now check their responses and raise objections until May 26, 2026. The final answer key and results are slated for release on June 1, 2026, following a thorough review of all submitted challenges.

For countless individuals, the dream of owning a home seems increasingly out of reach due to escalating prices and limited access to financing. In response, governments are launching a spectrum of housing initiatives.

India's market regulator is exploring ways to deepen the corporate bond market by potentially easing disclosure rules for debt-only firms. A pilot project on bond tokenisation will also be launched to boost settlement speed and transparency.

Indian overseas travel spending saw a significant drop in March, with remittances falling by over $212 million from February. This decline, attributed to rising oil prices and a weakening rupee, occurred despite travel remaining the largest component of outward remittances under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme.

Fraud Proceeds Allegedly Laundered Through Shell Entities, Say Investigators

A Bengaluru homemaker lost Rs 1.4 lakh after a cab booking mix-up led her to fraudsters posing as Rapido customer care. Tricked into downloading malicious apps, she was manipulated into authorizing fraudulent transactions. The incident highlights the dangers of seeking help through unverified online numbers.

Mohanlal defended 'Drishyam 2's' direct OTT release, emphasizing its global reach and accessibility for regional cinema. Despite initial industry criticism from exhibitors, the film's massive success proved compelling stories transcend platforms. Mohanlal asserted that audience appreciation is paramount, highlighting the film's ability to connect worldwide, a significant moment for Malayalam cinema.