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Showing posts from June, 2025

Gift City Investment: Minimum Investment Size, Options, and Opportunities

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Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) stands as India’s flagship international financial hub, offering a unique platform for both domestic and global investors. With recent regulatory reforms, attractive tax incentives, and a broad range of investment options, GIFT City is increasingly seen as a gateway to global finance. What is GIFT City? GIFT City, located between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar in Gujarat, is India’s first operational greenfield smart city and the country’s only International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). It is designed to provide a world-class ecosystem for financial services, fintech, IT, and related sectors, supporting both Indian and international investors. Minimum Investment Size in GIFT City Recent regulatory changes have made GIFT City more accessible to a wider range of investors by lowering entry barriers: Portfolio Management Services (PMS): The minimum investment size for PMS has been reduced to  USD 75,000 (approximately ₹65 lakh) , down...

What Are Specialized Investment Funds (SIFs)?

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Specialized Investment Funds, or SIFs, are a new type of investment option in India, launched by SEBI in 2025. SIFs are designed for investors who want more choices and flexibility than regular mutual funds, but don’t want to invest the large amounts needed for Portfolio Management Services (PMS) Why Were SIFs Created? Many people want to invest in special sectors or use advanced strategies, but regular mutual funds often don’t allow this. PMS options require a lot more money to start. SIFs help bridge this gap by offering more options at a lower minimum investment. Key Features of SIFs Minimum Investment: Usually, you need at least ₹10 lakhs to invest in a SIF. Risk and Return: SIFs are for people who understand the risks and are ready for moderate to high risk for the chance of better returns. Investment Strategies: SIFs can use advanced methods like long-short equity, sector rotation, or dynamic asset allocation. They can also invest in things like real estate, infrastructure, and p...

NRIs in the UAE: How to Pay 0% Tax on Mutual Fund Gains in India

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  The DTAA Advantage: Zero Tax Legally   Under the India–UAE DTAA, capital gains made by a UAE tax resident from the sale of Indian mutual funds are  taxable only in the UAE . Since the UAE does not levy personal income tax, this effectively means you  pay no tax  on these gains at all.   Step-by-Step Guide to Claim This Benefit Step 1: Check Your Eligibility You qualify if: You’re an NRI (i.e., you stayed outside India for more than 182 days in the financial year). You’re a  UAE tax resident  during the relevant financial year.   Step 2: Get a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) This is essential to claim DTAA benefits. How to apply: Visit the UAE’s Ministry of Finance online platform. Register on EmaraTax. Upload documents like passport, Emirates ID, visa, 6-month bank statement, and proof of Indian income. Pay the application fee (AED 50 + AED 500). TRC is usually issued in 5–10 working days.   Step 3: Fill Form 10F This form is avail...