Summary of this article
FCNR(B) special facility ends from September 1, 2026.
Investors and taxpayers face new nomination rules and advance-tax deadline.
Revised ETF rules and small-savings rate updates are also due this month.
September 2026 brings a series of updates and changes in major financial and regulatory practices that can affect investors, taxpayers, NRIs and households. From changes to FCNR(B) deposits and demat account nominations, revised ETF rules, and key tax deadlines. Individuals are expected to keep track of these dates and the changes during the month. Here are the major changes and deadlines one should keep track of.
FCNR(B) special window closes
As per several media reports, one of the key changes will be proposed in the Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank), FCNR (B) deposits. The Reserve Bank of India’s special dollar-rupee swap facility for eligible FCNR (B) deposits will end on August 31, 2026. From September 01, 2026, FCNR(B) deposits will no longer receive the benefit of this; however, this does not mean that FCNR(B) will be discontinued. Banks can continue offering these deposits in accordance with the regulatory framework. The interest rates will be determined by the prevailing conditions and bank policies. For NRIs who consider such deposits, the end of the special window can affect the rates that are available on deposits.
New nomination rules
Investors will need to pay attention to nomination requirements. There are new rules that concern nominations for demat accounts and mutual funds. These are to take effect from September 01, 2026. Investors should check whether their nomination details are updated while also making sure that the required nominations are completed. Being on top of the updates will help ease the transfer of assets for nominees in the future.
Revised ETF framework
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is implementing a revised framework for exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from September 07, 2026. These changes cover several aspects of ETF trading, which include the base price, price bands, the pre-open call auction and the close-out systems. The implementation date was extended to September 07, 2026. This gives market participants more time to prepare for the revised framework.
September 15 advance-tax deadline
For eligible taxpayers, September 15, 2026, is another important date. At least 45 per cent of the total advance tax liability is required to have been paid by the stated date. Taxpayers with income sources coming from businesses, investments or other sources require tax payments that should review their liability and ensure they have fulfilled their responsibilities.
Small-savings rates announcement
September 30, 2026, is an important date for investors in government-backed small savings schemes. The government is expected to announce the interest rates which are applicable to these schemes for the October to December 2026 quarter. This announcement will further determine whether the existing rates are unchanged or if they are revised for the new quarter. Investors who have invested in such products as small savings schemes should watch for the notification before they make decisions which are based on expected returns.
Aside from tax and investment-related changes, September will also see travel reforms. From September 01, 2026, international passengers who depart from India will no longer need to get their boarding passes stamped at immigration counters while travelling. With changes related to finances and investments being introduced this month, people should stay on top of updates that can affect them.
