Indian e-commerce firms have achieved an estimated ₹24,000 crore in festive sales during the first two days of the current season, with smartphones, electronics and fashion leading demand. According to latest reports, this strong performance highlights the growing importance of online shopping during India's festive season, as millions of consumers take advantage of discounts, promotional offers, bank deals, and attractive financing options. The impressive start reflects the continued expansion of India's digital commerce market, with online retailers benefiting from increased consumer spending and the convenience of shopping from home. From smartphones and consumer electronics to fashion, home appliances, beauty products, and everyday essentials, online marketplaces are experiencing significant demand across multiple categories.
No-cost EMI schemes allow shoppers to split payments for expensive products like smartphones, appliances, and furniture without apparent interest charges. According to reports from CRIF High Mark, these schemes typically involve buyers giving up upfront discounts that effectively cover the interest payable to banks or financial institutions. For example, a washing machine priced at ₹40,000 may be available for ₹36,000 with a total payment, but customers opting for no-cost EMI may have to pay the full ₹4,000 discount amount in installments. Similarly, a laptop listed at ₹50,000 may cost ₹55,000 under an EMI plan if the interest amount is added to the product price. However, the name can be misleading as buyers may lose upfront discounts or face additional charges that increase the overall cost.
Festive sales represent a popular shopping period for Indians, with e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Myntra rolling out deals and discounts. As reported by NDTV Profit, this season provides opportunities for consumers to make big purchases at lower prices. Paying for products in installments can be particularly useful during festive periods when households may have several expenses, as smaller monthly payments help buyers plan their spending more effectively. The option is also promoted across e-commerce platforms and retail stores, allowing customers to consider products that might be beyond their current budget. Major online marketplaces typically launch special shopping events ahead of festivals such as Dussehra and Diwali, offering discounts and exclusive deals to attract customers.
The decision to choose no-cost EMI depends on individual budget constraints and offer terms. According to CRIF High Mark, buyers who can comfortably pay the full amount and receive substantial discounts may find paying in full works out cheaper because it avoids EMI-related fees and preserves savings. However, for buyers who want to spread expensive purchase costs over several months, no-cost EMI may be more suitable. Before making decisions, shoppers should compare total prices with EMI amounts, check for processing fees and taxes, and review terms related to missed payments to understand the actual cost implications. Smaller monthly instalments do not automatically mean a better deal - buyers should compare the EMI price with the upfront payment price before making a decision. The current festive season offers particularly attractive financing options, with consumers increasingly using no-cost EMI schemes for high-value purchases like smartphones, laptops, and home appliances.
