Share Market Expiry To Visa Rules: Know Big Changes In India Starting Today

Starting January 1, 2025, India will see significant regulatory and financial changes impacting various sectors. Key updates include mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for GST compliance, adjustments in US visa appointment rescheduling, LPG price changes, and simplified EPFO pension withdrawals. Additionally, higher transaction limits for UPI and new agricultural loan rules will be introduced. Both businesses and individuals must prepare for these shifts as the new year brings these updates.

LPG cylinder prices

From January 1, 2025, LPG cylinder prices will be adjusted. Although specific changes haven't been detailed yet, both domestic and commercial LPG prices are expected to change. This adjustment is part of a broader set of regulatory updates that will affect various aspects of daily life and business operations in India.

GST Compliance Updates

To enhance security measures, all taxpayers must adopt mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) when accessing GST portals. This involves updating mobile numbers for OTPs and training employees on the system. Additionally, E-Way Bills will only be valid for documents not older than 180 days, necessitating better coordination between invoicing and logistics processes.

Changes in Loan Rules for Farmers

The Reserve Bank of India has introduced new regulations allowing farmers to access loans up to Rs 2 lakh without guarantees. This move aims to provide more financial flexibility to farmers across the country. These changes are part of a series of updates affecting various sectors starting from January 1, 2025.

Visa Requirements

Effective January 1, 2025, non-immigrant visa applicants in India can reschedule their US visa appointments once without any additional fee. Further rescheduling will require reapplication and fee payment. Moreover, from January 17, 2025, the H-1B visa process will undergo modernization to offer more flexibility for employers and ease for Indian F-1 visa holders.

EPFO Withdraw Change

Pensioners from the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) can withdraw their pensions from any bank without extra verification starting January 1. This change aims to make pension withdrawals more accessible for retirees across the country.

UPI Transaction Limit Increase

The transaction limit for UPI 123Pay will increase from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 starting January 1, 2025. This update provides feature phone users with greater flexibility in conducting transactions. It is one of several financial changes being implemented at the start of the new year.

Share Market Expiry Date Update

• The expiration dates for Sensex and other indices will shift from Fridays to Tuesdays beginning January 1, 2025. This change affects both weekly and monthly contracts within India's share market.
• Investors should take note of this update as it may influence trading strategies moving forward.