New Delhi: The beginning of May 2026 has brought a fresh set of financial and regulatory changes that are set to directly impact household budgets and daily transactions. As is customary at the start of every month, several revisions across fuel pricing, banking, and digital sectors have come into force from May 1. These changes range from LPG cylinder prices and export duties to credit card charges, online gaming regulations, and bank holidays.
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Commercial LPG Cylinder Prices Rise Sharply
One of the most closely watched updates relates to LPG cylinder prices. Oil marketing companies have released revised rates, keeping domestic LPG cylinder prices unchanged for now. In Delhi, the price continues to remain at ₹913 per cylinder. However, there has been a sharp increase in the cost of commercial LPG cylinders. The 19 kg commercial cylinder has witnessed a steep hike of ₹993, taking its price to ₹3,071.50 in the national capital. This increase is expected to impact restaurants, small businesses, and commercial establishments that rely heavily on bulk gas usage.
In another significant move, the government has reduced export duties on key petroleum products, offering relief to oil companies. The export duty on diesel has been cut from ₹55.5 per litre to ₹23 per litre. Similarly, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) export duty has been reduced from ₹42 to ₹33 per litre. There is no export duty on petrol, which remains unchanged. Despite these adjustments, there has been no immediate change in domestic petrol and diesel prices, providing temporary relief to consumers.
SBI Credit Card Users Face Revised Charges
Credit card users, particularly those holding SBI cards, will notice changes in fee structures. From May 1, late payment charges have been revised. For outstanding dues between ₹100 and ₹500, a fixed late fee of ₹100 will now apply. For dues between ₹500 and ₹1,000, the late payment charge has been set at ₹500. Additionally, benefits on co-branded cards such as BPCL SBI credit cards have been modified. The annual fee waiver will now be applicable only if the cardholder spends ₹1 lakh annually, compared to the earlier threshold of ₹50,000.
Online Gaming Sector Gets New Regulator
A major regulatory development has also taken place in the online gaming sector. From May 1, the Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) will be established to oversee and regulate digital gaming platforms. Under the new framework, online games will be classified into three categories: Online Money Games, Online Social Games, and E-Sports. Platforms offering real-money gaming services will be required to register with the authority and comply with stricter guidelines. Monitoring of financial transactions will also be enhanced to ensure transparency and curb misuse.
