UPI survey shows resistance to additional payment costs A LocalCircles survey suggests that 76% of respondents could move purchases above ₹2,000 away from UPI if merchants charge them extra for using the payment method. The findings reflect a possible change in consumer behaviour, rather than an actual shift already recorded.

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UPI MDR comes into effect from October 15 The government will introduce a Merchant Discount Rate on select UPI merchant payments from October 15, 2026. Under the new framework, eligible person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000 will attract an MDR of up to 0.40 per cent. PhonePe CEO Sameer Nigam said the framework creates

New Delhi, India | UPI payments up to Rs 2,000 are protected from charges, but crossing that amount does not automatically create a consumer fee. UPI Payments Above Rs 2,000: Will Users Pay Charges? UPI users do not automatically have to pay a transaction fee when sending Rs 2,500, Rs 5,000 or Rs 10,000. The Rs 2,000 figure mentioned in the latest government notificat

India and Canada have agreed to deepen investment and financial cooperation while targeting CAD 70 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. Treaty talks could strengthen investment ties India has expressed its readiness to begin negotiations with Canada on a Bilateral Investment Treaty at the earliest, marking another important step in the revival of economic relations between New Delhi and Ottawa.

Parliament has cleared an amendment allowing the Centre to reshape the zero-MDR framework for UPI and other notified digital payments. No new UPI charge has taken effect yet, while the government says customers will not directly bear MDR charges. India has moved closer to potentially introducing Merchant Discount Rate charges on some UPI merchant transactions after Parliament cleared changes to the law governing digital payment charges. The Taxation a

India has proposed a legal change that could permit merchant fees on selected UPI payments, including transactions above Rs 2,000. No fee has been finalised, and the proposals mainly target large merchants rather than customers, small shops or personal transfers. UPI Fee Has Not Been Introduced Yet UPI payments above Rs 2,000 are not automatically becoming chargeable. A proposed amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act woul

How WhatsApp usernames change user identity sharing WhatsApp’s rollout of usernames introduces a new way for users to connect without directly sharing their mobile number. In India, where phone numbers are closely connected to UPI payments, Aadhaar verification, banking services, and multiple digital identity systems, this shift is especially significant. While phone numbers remain required for account creation and verification, they will no longer be the only way users identify or connect with each other on the platform. Privacy improvements and everyday impact The introduction of usernames helps reduce exposure of personal phone numbers in group chats, business communication, and online marketplaces. This can lower the chances of spam calls, unsolicited messages, and basic data harvesting. It also creates a separation between private identity and public interaction, which is increasingly important in large digital ecosystems like India’s. However, the actual privacy benefit will depend on how WhatsApp manages visibility settings and user discovery options. Cybersecurity concerns and impersonation risks At the same time, experts warn that usernames introduce new cybersecurity challenges. The biggest concern is impersonation, where attackers can create similar-looking usernames to deceive users. Unlike phone numbers, usernames can be copied or slightly modified, making fake accounts harder to detect at a glance. In India, where cyber fraud linked to messaging apps and digital payments is already rising, this increases the importance of careful identity verification. Safety features and implementation factors WhatsApp is expected to introduce additional protections such as a “username key” system, which restricts who can message a user even if they know the username. This could help reduce spam and unwanted contact. However, the overall effectiveness of the feature will depend on default settings, user awareness, and how strictly WhatsApp enforces anti-impersonation measures. The update represents a shift in digital identity handling, offering stronger privacy on one side while introducing new forms of security risk on the other.

World Cup Returns With New Format And India Watch Details FIFA World Cup 2026 begins with a bigger format, three host nations, and strong attention from Indian football fans. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and a new knockout stage, this edition is set to be the largest World Cup so far.   FIFA World Cup 2026 Kicks Off With New Format And Big India Interest

Venus-Jupiter Conjunction 2026 Lights Up Evening Sky Venus and Jupiter appeared close together in the western sky, creating a bright celestial view for skywatchers on June 9. Venus And Jupiter Create a Stunning Evening View Skywatchers witnessed a beautiful celestial moment as Venus and Jupiter appeared close together in the evening sky. The two bright planets were seen sinking towards the western horizon, creating a striking

Zee Confirms FIFA World Cup 2026 Broadcast For Indian Fans Indian football fans finally have an answer as Zee secures the FIFA World Cup 2026 India broadcast rights just days before the tournament begins. Zee Brings Big Relief For Football Fans The suspense over the FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast in India has finally ended. Zee Entertainment has secured the India rights for the tournament, giving football fans clarity on where

Key June Financial Updates Consumers Should Know June has brought a fresh set of money-related changes that may affect households, taxpayers, small businesses and digital payment users. From commercial LPG rates to UPI security checks, these updates can impact monthly budgets and financial planning. LPG Price Hike Hits Businesses Commercial LPG cylinder prices have incr

An Indian climate-tech startup, in collaboration with IIT Delhi, has developed a next-generation air conditioner designed to operate efficiently in extreme temperatures of up to 50°C. The innovation comes as rising heat levels across India drive urgent demand for more reliable and energy-efficient cooling solutions. The newly developed system has suc