Hi there! 
After weeks of speculation, the Union Budget is set to be presented on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Many of us will be half-watching the TV and half-scrolling through updates to see what the day brings. Even when expectations are low, the Budget always draws attention, so it’s a good time to catch up on what to expect.
Silver, too, has been making headlines, with prices touching an all-time high, hovering around ₹3,32,000 for 1 kg. If selling silver is on your mind, the amount you finally take home depends on how those gains are taxed.
Finally, we dive into workplace perks, or perquisites – benefits that come alongside your salary. One such perk is a company car. There’s no EMI to worry about, no insurance renewals to track, and in some cases, even fuel and a driver are covered. But whether you use it for office runs, personal travel, or a mix of both, taxes still take a seat in the passenger side.
We’ve handpicked threads on these topics in today’s edition.
TOP THREADS
What to expect from the Union Budget 2026?
Every year, as the Union Budget approaches, people start thinking about changes that could affect their finances and investments. This time, the discussion is around raising the LTCG limit and how certain incomes, such as F&O trading and…Continue Reading
How are silver investments taxed in India?
Silver prices are touching new highs, and many investors are looking to cash in. If you’re holding silver, it’s important to understand the impact of taxes when you sell. The tax you pay depends on whether your investment is in physical silver, digital silver, silver ETFs, or silver mutual funds. The tax on physical silver is…Continue Reading
How can a company car affect your taxes?
A company car is considered a perquisite under the Income Tax Act. While it offers many benefits, you’re not taxed on what the company spends on the car – fuel, maintenance, or insurance. Instead, the taxable amount depends on the engine size, who pays for the fuel, and…Continue Reading
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FAQs
Is GST applicable on the purchase of silver?
Yes, GST of 3% is applicable when you buy silver in India, whether it’s in the form of coins, bars, bullion, or jewellery.
Is digital silver taxed differently from physical silver?
No, digital silver follows the same tax rules as physical silver, including the holding period and the tax rate.
Is home-to-office travel taxable in a company car?
No, travel between your home and office in a company-provided car is not taxed and is treated as a non-taxable perquisite.
RESULTS FROM LAST DIGEST
What’s the additional tax if ITR-U is filed within 12 months after AY 2025-26?
A) 25% (54%) 
B) 50% (23%)
C) 60% (15%)
D) 70% (8%)
54% of people chose the right answer. Well done!