New Delhi, Nov. 2 -- Long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax is back in focus after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed interest in hearing views on the levy, which, along with the Securities Transaction Tax (STT), is viewed by experts as a twin blow for market participants.

While acknowledging the significance of the LTCG tax and STT for market investors, FM Sitharaman said: "We are very close to the budget, and the preparation for the budget has started, and it may not be the best time for me to say what I will or what I will not consider." This has since fueled calls for a cut in the LTCG tax rates.

SEBI has also reportedly joined calls for LTCG tax relief. Reuters reported that the markets regulator has recommended the governme...