facebook
SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 31    C

Economy

...

Gen Z employee was suspended for 30 days, so he left the country: HR said youre not expected to report before calling him back after 10 days. Here's why

A Gen Z employee was suspended for 30 days after repeatedly arriving late and was told not to report to work or contact his manager. He used the time to leave the country. Ten days later, HR asked him to return early because the company was understaffed. He refused without written confirmation, saying his plans were based on the original suspension. The story sparked social media debate, with many users backing him.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 9:28 am

Air India Phuket-Delhi flight altitude loss incident: Preliminary report expected in 10-15 days; DGCA to decide on action

Fines, management liability and enhanced surveillance measures cannot be ruled out

The Hindu Businessline 13 Aug 2026 9:13 am

Air India Phuket-Delhi flight logged multiple hydraulic failures; autopilot disconnects before 300ft drop

Air India flight AI2379 from Phuket to Delhi experienced technical warnings on August 4. The Airbus A320 aircraft suffered a sudden 300-foot altitude drop over Odisha. This incident resulted in injuries to twenty passengers and four cabin crew members. A post-flight maintenance report revealed multiple system warnings and alerts.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 8:24 am

8th Pay Commission salary hike: Will the report be submitted before May 2027? Government clarifies 18-month deadline

The 8th Pay Commission has 18 months from its constitution on 3 November 2025 to submit its recommendations, putting the deadline in May 2027. The government has clarified that it has not confirmed an early submission.

Livemint 13 Aug 2026 8:23 am

NaBFID plans $3-4 billion ECB raise to support infrastructure financing

The infrastructure financier expects domestic long-term savings to play a bigger role in funding projects and other long-duration assets

The Hindu Businessline 13 Aug 2026 8:19 am

Actor Madhavan shares Coimbatore-based GD Naidu's 5 incredible inventions: From a 1925 mechanical calculator to an electric razor

R Madhavan, who portrays G.D. Naidu in G.D.N., highlighted five inventions by the Coimbatore-based innovator: a 1925 mechanical calculator, 1936 vote recording machine, 1935 Rasant electric razor, 1937 electric motor and coil spring juicer. Naidu reportedly also developed electronic calculators, radios, vending machines and other devices. G.D.N., based on his life, released worldwide on August 7, 2026.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 8:18 am

American Airlines shakes up leadership as CEO faces pressure to close profit gap

American Airlines is reorganizing its senior management team. New roles are being added to broaden oversight and boost performance. A former Spirit Airlines executive will now lead technical operations. The airline aims to close its profit gap with competitors like Delta and United. These changes are the first step in strengthening the team and accelerating execution.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 8:06 am

When will govt issue plastic 10 and 20 banknotes? FM Nirmala Sitharaman responds to query in Rajya Sabha

Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed that the RBI's proposal to introduce 10 and 20 plastic banknotes has been approved by the government. Here's what she said about the launch timeline. 

Livemint 13 Aug 2026 8:03 am

RBI proposes tighter loan pricing rules: External benchmark norms, APR caps and key changes explained for borrowers

The RBI has proposed a common framework for loan pricing, including benchmark-linked rates, board-approved pricing policies and tighter rules on loan spreads. The draft also proposes APR caps for small-value and microfinance loans.

Livemint 13 Aug 2026 8:01 am

Powerball jackpot hits $1 billion: Check ticket rules and drawing time

Powerball draw: The Powerball jackpot has soared to approximately one billion dollars, marking it as the eighth-largest prize ever in the games history. The last winning jackpot was awarded to two fortunate players on May 2. Drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evening, with tickets available in forty-five states and additional territories.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 7:54 am

Donald Trump is making a rare Western trip to raise cash for Republicans and talk about the economy

President Trump visits California and Nevada to contrast his economic policies with Democrats. He aims to bolster Republican support in upcoming November elections. Trump will discuss the economy and criticise Democratic policies during his trip. California's governor criticizes the president's visit as a fundraising and attack mission.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 7:53 am

Paytm CEO, CFO get Sebi notice over 2023 disclosure curbing small loans

The company, in a statement on December 6, 2023, said it would issue fewer sub-50,000 (about $525) personal loans, after the Reserve Bank of India tightened rules on consumer lending

Business Standard 13 Aug 2026 7:46 am

Karnataka bandh today: Are banks open or closed in Bengaluru on Thursday, August 13?

Essential services are expected to remain operational during the statewide bandh in Karnataka on Thursday.

Livemint 13 Aug 2026 5:07 am

Quote of the day by George Bernard Shaw: 'Marriage is popular because it combines maximum temptation in life with maximum opportunity...' - A lesson on the complicated nature of love by the Irish playwright

Quote of the day from George Bernard Shaw is a famous observation on marriage that takes a witty and unconventional look at why people continue to be drawn to the institution. Taken from his 1903 play Man and Superman, the quote, Marriage is popular because it combines the maximum of temptation with the maximum of opportunity, reflects Shaw's habit of using humour and sharp social commentary to question everyday beliefs.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 4:41 am

Ride-hailing aggregators told to remove tipping prompts

The road transport ministry has mandated that motor vehicle aggregators eliminate any tipping prompts that appear before or during trips. This decision is based on the need for adherence to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, especially after instances of deceptive tipping practices were noted. Tips should only be suggested post-trip to ensure all funds go directly to drivers without any reductions.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:47 am

Green and Neglected Grass Economy of Rural Kashmir

Kashmir's agricultural identity has been built around a handful of familiar images: the paddy fields of Pulwama and Anantnag turning gold before harvest, the apple orchards of Shopian, Sopore and Baramulla that anchor the Valley's cash economy, and the saffron fields of Pampore that lend it a distinct global identity. Horticulture today makes up a significant share of Jammu and Kashmir's economic output, and a very large proportion of rural households depend, directly or indirectly, on orchards, paddy and allied farming for their livelihood. This is the Kashmir agriculture that gets discussed in policy circles, covered in newspapers, and celebrated in government schemes. But beneath this visible economy runs a quieter one grass. It does not appear in horticulture department press releases, it has no mandi, no minimum support price, and no season of celebration. Yet from the alpine meadows of Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam to the modest grazing patches along village roads, grass sustains a rural economy that is every bit as real as an apple orchard, just far less visible. An Economy Hiding in Plain Sight Call it hidden, because that is exactly what it is. Every village household that keeps a cow tied behind the house, every family that sends a few sheep up to the marg above the settlement each summer, every horse used to ferry tourists across a meadow all of this rests on grass, yet none of it shows up in the way Kashmir's economy is usually described. Milk, ghee, wool, meat and manure move through informal local markets every day of the year, and the entire chain begins with a resource nobody thinks to count. The clearest example of this hidden economy is the Gujjar and Bakarwal community, whose way of life is built entirely around the seasonal rhythm of pasture. Each summer, these pastoralist families walk their flocks from the plains of Jammu up into the high meadows of Kashmir a migration that can take over a month on foot, timed to the melting of snow and the opening up of grass at higher altitudes. Once they reach these high pastures, herds graze on the lush grasses of the Himalayan ridges at altitudes between 3,000 and 4,500 metres, close to the snowline. For a very large tribal population in Jammu and Kashmir, this is not a supplementary activity it is the entire economic base of the household, hidden from view for much of the year in remote dhoks and bahaks that most of the Valley never sees. And the output is substantial, even if uncounted. Gujjar families rearing cattle sell milk and dairy products such as ghee and cheese as their primary source of income, alongside wool and mutton. Multiply that across thousands of households scattered through forests and meadows across the Valley, and what emerges is a genuine rural industry one that has simply never been mapped, registered or valued the way an apple orchard is. Why It Stays Hidden Part of why this economy remains hidden is structural, not accidental. Unlike an orchard or a paddy field, the land grass grows on is rarely owned outright by the people who depend on it. Meadows, forest floor, roadside verges and riverbanks are commons used, but not possessed by any one household. And land that belongs to no one in particular tends to be improved by no one in particular either. Encroachment, unplanned tourism infrastructure, and the slow conversion of grazing land to other uses eat steadily into pasture area, with no single stakeholder positioned to stop it. There is also a record-keeping problem that keeps this economy hidden even from those meant to plan for it. Land records across Jammu and Kashmir, as in most of India, track cultivated area, orchard area and forest cover not pasture condition or fodder productivity. A decline that never shows up in an official number is very difficult to argue exists at all. So fodder scarcity does not announce itself as a headline statistic; it shows up quietly, as thinner cattle, falling milk yields, and herders selling off animals they can no longer feed. Climate change is now pulling this hidden crisis into the open, whether policy is ready or not. Pastoralist families have reported that natural resources, their only source of income, appear to be shrinking, with flocks having to make do with less grass each day. Erratic snowfall, early heatwaves and unpredictable rainfall are disrupting the very timing that transhumant pastoralism depends on. Researchers studying Gujjar and Bakarwal communities note that their climate-dependent lifestyle faces unprecedented challenges from shifting temperature and precipitation patterns, and argue that adaptive strategies are urgently needed to protect this way of life. When the grass fails, there is no crop insurance to fall back on; only a family with fewer animals than it had the year before. What Staying Hidden Costs The consequences of this invisibility are not abstract. Herding families across the Valley increasingly report reduced cattle numbers and declining fodder quality, forcing hard trade-offs between feeding animals and meeting other household needs. In some areas, traditional barter arrangements around grazing herders exchanging wool and ghee for access to land have already begun shifting toward cash payments, a sign that even this informal economy is being monetised, often to the disadvantage of those with the least bargaining power. There is an ecological cost hidden in here too. Healthy alpine meadows are not just fodder banks; they anchor soil on steep Himalayan slopes, regulate the water that eventually irrigates paddy fields downstream, and sustain the biodiversity that draws tourists to Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam in the first place. Degrade the grass, and the apple orchards, paddy fields and tourism economy downstream eventually feel it too. Kashmir's agricultural economy is far more interconnected than the neat line drawn between farmland and grazing land in official records suggests. Bringing It into the Light None of this calls for reinventing the wheel, only for noticing what has been there all along. Protecting common grazing land from encroachment, investing in improved and drought-tolerant fodder grass varieties, developing silvipasture models that combine trees and grass on degraded slopes, and most fundamentally, actually counting pasture area and condition in land-use surveys would go a long way toward bringing this hidden economy into policy view. So would extending to the dairy and wool economy the same institutional attention horticulture already receives: cooperatives, market linkages, veterinary support. Kashmir's rural economy has always run on more than what is harvested from a field. The grass on the hillside above a village is not empty land waiting for something else to happen to it; for a great many families, it already is the economy. It has simply been hidden from the story Kashmir tells about itself. (The author is Assistant Professor, University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab)

RisingKashmir 13 Aug 2026 1:41 am

MSME rules next month, focus on global value chains

The MSME ministry is set to announce new regulations for small businesses next month. These amendments focus on improving invoice financing through the Trade Receivables Discounting System, ultimately aiming to bolster cost efficiency and global competitiveness. As Parliament has recently addressed issues of delayed payments, digital platforms will play a crucial role in overseeing the effective implementation of this law.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:36 am

Nirmala Sitharaman calls on multilateral banks to lay BRICS for private infra investment

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the challenges faced by BRICS nations in mobilizing private capital. She urged multilateral institutions to draw investors into infrastructure projects, as India needs ample private investments alongside its public capital. A substantial pipeline of infrastructure projects is being cultivated through public-private partnerships, allowing the group to target resilient and sustainable growth through meaningful cooperation outcomes.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:31 am

From reels to episodes: 80% Indians embrace microdrama as new entertainment habit

Microdrama is now a mainstream Indian entertainment format, with most audiences preferring it. Viewers spend over fifteen minutes daily watching these short, episodic stories. Social media feeds are the primary source for discovering new microdrama content. This format shows strong brand recall and purchase intent for advertisers. Microdrama offers creators and brands opportunities for deeper audience engagement.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:24 am

SAT reserves interim relief order in Zee, Punit Goenka-SEBI case

The Securities Appellate Tribunal reserved its order on interim relief for Zee Entertainment and Punit Goenka. They are challenging a Securities and Exchange Board of India order which they deem punitive. Lawyers argued the order should not take effect until future resolutions are completed. These resolutions are for the company's overall benefit and future operations. Parties must file their replies and submissions within the next six weeks.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:16 am

Drug formulations & biologicals keep India's pharma exports healthy in Q1

During the first quarter of fiscal 2027, India's pharmaceutical exports soared to $8.10 billion, showcasing remarkable strength in drug formulations and biologicals, which together made up roughly three-quarters of the total. Both bulk drugs and vaccines saw substantial double-digit growth. North America and Europe served as vital markets for Indian medicines, indicating a promising future for the nation's pharmaceutical sector.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:09 am

TV ad demand weakens as ratings blackout enters festive season

Television broadcasters anticipate a challenging festive advertising season ahead. This comes as ratings remain withheld following a ministry directive. Advertising demand is already subdued due to economic pressures and digital shifts. Free commercial time consumption has fallen to a three-year low. This situation impacts the entire TV broadcasting ecosystem significantly.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:06 am

Supreme Court rulings set to raise insurers' third-party liability

General insurers face higher motor third-party claim reserves due to Supreme Court rulings. A recent ruling fixes homemakers' notional income, increasing claim payouts. This interpretation is expected to raise claim outgo significantly over eighteen months. Insurers also face policy standardization for occupant and pillion-rider coverage. Motor third-party insurance remains challenging with rising claim costs and slow premium growth.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:04 am

Govt tightens drug quality net, initiates 950 actions since 2022: Over 1,100 cough syrup makers are also facing intensive audits amid quality concerns

The government has initiated 950 enforcement actions against pharmaceutical companies since December 2022. These actions aim to improve the quality of locally made medicines and prevent spurious drug sales. More than 1,100 cough syrup manufacturers are facing intense audits due to quality concerns. Drug manufacturing premises are inspected periodically to verify compliance with good manufacturing practices. Risk-based inspections are now prioritized based on a company's risk profile.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 1:01 am

Southern banks on a golden lending streak; gold-loan books swell 2x

South Indian banks have seen their gold-loan portfolios nearly double in three years. This significant growth is driven by rising gold prices and increased demand for credit. Federal Bank, CSB Bank, and others experienced substantial portfolio expansions. CSB Bank recorded the fastest growth, more than doubling its gold loan book. Gold loans now represent a significant portion of advances for these regional lenders.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 12:55 am

Banks to reveal loan rates every month in RBI's disclosure tweak

The Reserve Bank of India has proposed new lending rate guidelines. Regulated entities must declare lending rates monthly and reset floating loans quarterly. Total charges for microfinance and small loans will be capped by the regulator. These new norms aim to harmonize interest rate determination methods. Final guidelines will take effect from April 1, 2027.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 12:24 am

Psychologists say people who love spending time alone aren't necessarily introverts, they may have a stronger sense of autonomy

People who genuinely enjoy spending time alone are not necessarily introverts, psychologists say. Research suggests that a preference for solitude may instead be linked to a strong sense of autonomy, where people feel comfortable making their own choices, following their interests and spending time without needing constant social approval. For some, alone time can also help them process emotions, think clearly and recover from overstimulation. The key difference is that chosen solitude can feel peaceful and fulfilling, while loneliness is usually linked to wanting connection but not having it.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 12:23 am

Quote of the day by Rumi: 'Half of life is lost in charming others. The other half is lost in dealing with anxieties caused by others...' A lesson on finding your own path by ancient mystic and poet

Rumis quote, Half of life is lost in charming others. The other half is lost in going through anxieties caused by others. Leave this play. You have played enough, offers a simple but powerful reminder about how much time can be spent trying to please people and worrying about their opinions, actions and reactions. The passage encourages stepping away from the constant need for approval and focusing instead on living with greater awareness.

The Economic Times 13 Aug 2026 12:01 am

In 1863, Daniel Freeman became the first homesteader in US history. A year later, his love letters began a romance that turned the claimed land into a home

Daniel Freeman made history in 1863 when he became the first person to file a claim under the Homestead Act, taking 160 acres of land in Nebraska. A year later, his life took a personal turn when he began exchanging letters with Agnes Suiter, who had once been engaged to his brother James, a Civil War casualty. Their correspondence slowly grew into a romance, and the two married in 1865. Agnes moved to Nebraska, where they raised eight children and built a life on the homestead.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 11:23 pm

India Retail Inflation Rises To 4.45% In July As Food Prices Stay Elevated

India's retail inflation increased to 4.45% in July, marking the fourth consecutive monthly rise, driven mainly by higher food prices. Food inflation climbed to 5.52%, with rural areas witnessing stronger price pressures. Prices of spices, vegetables and precious metals remained elevated, while some vegetable items provided limited relief

IBTimes 12 Aug 2026 11:12 pm

Four equity fund categories saw outflows in July despite gains: Should investors be concerned?

Four equity fund categories large-cap, dividend-yield, value, and ELSS saw net outflows in July despite mostly positive returns. Experts explain the key reasons behind the trend and what investors should consider before making changes to their portfolios.

Livemint 12 Aug 2026 11:06 pm

Real Estate Projects Fined for RERA Violations

The Authority reiterated that real estate projects must obtain mandatory RERA registration before advertising, marketing, or undertaking sales

Deccan Chronicle 12 Aug 2026 11:03 pm

10 Unique Baby Names For Little Ones Inspired By Zodiac Signs

10 Unique Baby Names For Little Ones Inspired By Zodiac Signs

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:50 pm

Repco Home Finance loan book grows 8.9% in Q1; net profit rises to 114 crore

GNPA ratio improves to 2.7% from 3.3% a year ago, while net interest income rises 10.2% in the June quarter

The Hindu 12 Aug 2026 10:42 pm

Zerodha Fund House unveils arbitrage fund for short-term cash management, investment starts at 5,000

The new fund offer is aimed at investors looking to park surplus money for relatively short periods while keeping volatility lower than that typically associated with pure equity funds.

Livemint 12 Aug 2026 10:37 pm

India, S African customs union ink terms to launch trade talks

India and the Southern African Customs Union have commenced discussions by signing Terms of Reference for a trade agreement. Expected to finalize within a few months, this preferential trade pact is designed to enhance bilateral trade significantly. India plays a pivotal role as a key supplier to SACU nations across a range of industrial sectors, promising to cultivate stronger economic ties throughout Africa.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:33 pm

NCERT faces 1,596 vacancies, 44% CBSE positions unfilled: Par panel

NCERT faces over half its sanctioned posts vacant, impacting its key educational roles. CBSE also has 44 percent of its positions unfilled, a significant concern. This major shortage of permanent staff risks the safety and quality of national board exams. The parliamentary committee urged fast-track recruitment to fill these critical vacancies. Urgent attention is needed to address these staff shortages at both bodies.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:30 pm

Bank of America invests around Rs 18,268 crore for 49.9% stake in Jio Credit

Bank of America will invest up to $1.9 billion in Jio Credit. This significant foreign investment aims to acquire nearly fifty percent of the lending subsidiary. The transaction will provide substantial capital for Jio Credit's expansion plans. It will combine Jio's digital network with Bank of America's financial expertise. This partnership seeks to enhance credit access for all Indians.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:23 pm

India exports first gasoline cargo to Russia as refinery outages mount

The shipment of around 350,000 barrels arrived on August 5, while two more cargoes are expected by month-end as attacks on Russian energy infrastructure disrupt refining

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 10:18 pm

Child certificate under Income Tax Act 2025: What is it, who needs it and how to generate one?

Form 128 allows taxpayers to obtain lower or nil TDS/TCS certificates. Under the Income Tax 2025, child certificates can be generated for individual payers. Here's what they mean, who needs them, and how to get them.

Livemint 12 Aug 2026 10:14 pm

Air India pilot in Phuket-Delhi flight incident was on sleep medication

An Air India pilot on sleep medication tested positive for marijuana after an incident. The aircraft rapidly lost altitude, injuring seventeen passengers on its flight. The pilot reported sleep difficulties and personal circumstances affecting his rest. Aviation experts stated prescribed sleep medication would not detect THC. The incident is now under investigation by the Air Accident Investigation Bureau.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:12 pm

India signs terms for SACU trade deal, negotiations to begin in a month

The proposed preferential trade agreement will initially cover goods, with India and the five-member customs union aiming to conclude negotiations within a year

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 10:01 pm

Bank deposits hit decade-high growth as NRI dollar inflows cross $37 billion

Bank deposits saw their fastest growth in nearly ten years by July. Overseas Indians deposited about $37 billion in foreign currency accounts. Bank credit growth also accelerated to its fastest pace since June 2024. This surge was driven by corporate demand and MSME lending programs. India garnered nearly $41 billion in total inflows by July 31.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:00 pm

RBI proposes new interest rate rules for regulated entities, seeks public comments

The Reserve Bank of India is harmonizing interest rate determination methods for regulated entities. New guidelines will define internal benchmarks and loan pricing components for banks. Floating rate loans will have benchmark resets not exceeding three months. Existing loans must migrate to the new framework by April 2029. These draft guidelines are open for public comment until September 11.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 10:00 pm

Man buys $1.4 million ghost town, turns the 360-acre land into a successful business. But has one request from people

In 2018, entrepreneur Brent Underwood spent millions to buy Cerro Gordo, an abandoned California mining town. What began as a bold investment soon became an unexpected adventure when he moved there during the COVID-19 pandemic. Surrounded by historic buildings, old mine shafts and reminders of the towns violent past.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:48 pm

In 1960s, a New Jersey prisoner began studying law to fight his own drug conviction. Decades later, he became a New York judge despite criminal record

Walter Strauss was sentenced to prison in New Jersey in the 1960s after a drug conviction, but his time behind bars set him on an unexpected path. He began studying law, helped other inmates with their cases and continued his education after release. Years later, despite the barriers created by his criminal record, Strauss became a lawyer and eventually a New York Housing Court judge.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:46 pm

RBI draft keeps external benchmark optional for NBFCs in loan-rate rules

The proposed harmonised framework requires banks to link certain floating-rate loans to external benchmarks while giving NBFCs and other lenders discretion over adoption

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 9:46 pm

Kia plans India plant expansion as sales surge; aims 410,000 units by 2030

Kia India plans to expand its manufacturing capacity to meet future demand. The automaker targets annual sales of 410,000 vehicles by the year 2030. Kia will introduce ten new vehicles, with eight being electrified models. The company is also expanding its network into smaller Indian cities. This expansion aims to serve both domestic customers and increase exports.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:43 pm

Gujarat Pipavav Port Q1 FY27 profit rises 42% to 148 cr

Revenue from operations climbs 33% to 332 crore

The Hindu Businessline 12 Aug 2026 9:34 pm

Govt mulls MDR charge or tiered incentives to make UPI financially self-sustaining

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance remain deeply concerned by the staggering mismatch between the Rs 2,000 crore allocation and the industrys estimated operational cost of Rs 20,700 crore.

The Hindu 12 Aug 2026 9:30 pm

Air India Phuket-Delhi flight maintenance report flags hydraulic, flight-control faults

Investigators question pilots and crew as probe into August 4 altitude loss of AI2379 continues

The Hindu Businessline 12 Aug 2026 9:23 pm

Retail inflation breaches RBI's median target again to hit 4.45% in July

India's retail inflation rose to 4.45% in July, driven by higher food prices, while economists expect no immediate RBI rate hike despite rising upside risks

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 9:20 pm

Putin says Russia will start seizing European vessels if its ships targeted

The comments, which Putin made as he oversaw navy drills in Russia's far east, come as the EU tries to ratchet up pressure on Russia's so-called shadow fleet, expanding sanctions against hundreds of vessels and detaining some ships and their crews for checks. Some European governments have said they are exploring tougher maritime enforcement measures against ships suspected of sanctions evasion.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:08 pm

Delhi High Court questions Meta over Rights Manager access after creator alleges misuse of copyright tool

The Delhi High Court questioned Meta's copyright tool access policy. A content creator alleged misuse of the tool by unauthorized users. The court directed Meta to provide guidelines and eligibility criteria for the tool. Meta stated that disputed copyright strikes against the creator were reversed. The court will hear the matter again on September 24.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:04 pm

7-second gravity blackout? NASA explains viral earth disaster claim

Viral posts falsely claimed Earth would experience a seven-second gravity blackout. Scientists confirmed this physics-bending anomaly is impossible due to Earth's mass. Astronomical events like eclipses do not affect planetary gravity significantly. Hypothetical scenarios show a gravity loss would eject the atmosphere. The hoax exploited public interest in celestial events for engagement.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:00 pm

That old phone in your drawer could be hiding gold: Study reveals a tonne of e-waste can contain 100 times more gold than gold ore; every handset contains tiny traces of gold, silver & copper, and millions of devices could create urban mine

Old mobile phones contain valuable metals such as gold, silver and copper, with some metals found at higher concentrations in e-waste than in conventional ore. Global e-waste generation is rising rapidly, creating a significant opportunity for recovering these valuable resources. Recycling these metals can help reduce the need for virgin mining and its associated environmental impact. However, recovering metals from electronic devices requires specialised industrial processes and facilities. Consumers should therefore recycle unwanted electronics through authorised e-waste collection and recycling channels rather than attempting to extract metals at home.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 9:00 pm

Bank of America to acquire 49.9% in Jio Credit in potential Rs 18,268 crore deal

Jio Financial Services and Bank of America announced a significant joint venture agreement. The US banking major will acquire up to 49.9% in Jio Credit. This investment could reach Rs 18,268 crore, approximately $1.9 billion. Bank of America will initially hold a 26.5% stake in the NBFC. The transaction is subject to necessary regulatory and statutory approvals.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:56 pm

Rescuers evacuate more than 200 from a ferry fire that left at least 1 dead near Bali

Rescuers saved 211 people from a ferry fire near Bali island. One passenger's body was recovered after the blaze erupted at sea. The Putri Yasmin ferry was carrying vehicles and motorcycles when the fire started. Rough seas and high waves complicated the extensive rescue operation efforts. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and passenger number discrepancies.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:53 pm

Tier-II, III cities account for over half of forex demand: Thomas Cook

Thomas Cook's report shows smaller cities driving forex demand as young travellers adopt digital channels and buyers increasingly opt for destination-specific currencies.

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 8:41 pm

Laid off employee was forced to train his own replacement for months. But his revenge plan made the company regret their decision instantly

An employee's exit from a company took an unexpected turn after management informed him that his position would soon be taken over by someone else. Instead of leaving immediately, he was asked to spend weeks passing on his knowledge and helping the new employee understand the role. The unusual situation has led to a discussion online about workplace loyalty, layoffs, notice periods and how companies handle employees who know they are being replaced.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:39 pm

West Asia conflict may have fiscal implications in FY27: Finance Ministry

The ministry said its fiscal consolidation path and Rs 1 trillion stabilisation fund provide room to absorb mild shocks, but sustained oil-price increases pose risks

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 8:33 pm

Govt weighs tiered incentives to phase out zero MDR in coming years: FinMin

The Finance Ministry is exploring selective MDR restoration or tiered incentives as a parliamentary panel flags a widening funding gap in the UPI ecosystem.

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 8:30 pm

Small-cap funds attract highest ever monthly inflow in July: Is your equity portfolio taking the right risk?

Small-cap mutual funds attracted a record 7,768 crore in July, while large-cap funds saw their first outflow in 30 months. The sharp shift in equity fund flows raises questions about small-cap exposure, portfolio diversification and the right level of equity risk for investors.

Livemint 12 Aug 2026 8:29 pm

Inflation likely to rise from here as food prices remain key risk: Experts

Retail inflation in India is projected to increase in upcoming months. Food prices are the primary driver, though inflation should stay below six percent. Analysts anticipate the Reserve Bank of India will maintain its current policy stance. Supply-side factors like tomato and onion costs are influencing current price increases. Geopolitical easing could lead to inflation undershooting official projections.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:28 pm

Consumer durable makers begin passing higher input costs to buyers

Companies had faced continuing input-cost pressure and have responded by increasing realisations in the domestic market

The Hindu Businessline 12 Aug 2026 8:27 pm

Brics face constraints in mobilising private capital at scale: Sitharaman

The finance minister said public funds should catalyse private investment, while stable policy frameworks and multilateral institutions must help reduce investment risks

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 8:23 pm

Road ministry directs motor vehicle aggregators to pull down all tip-related prompts prior to acceptance or ride completion

The Road Transport Ministry has directed ride aggregators to immediately remove all pre-ride tipping prompts from their apps, saying tips must remain voluntary and can only be offered after a journey is completed under the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:21 pm

Nifty 50 needs 8% returns to reclaim peak; mid-caps narrow gap: What it means for investors

Large-, mid- and small-cap indices are at different stages of recovery from their previous peaks. While Nifty Midcap 150 is almost back to its record high, Nifty 50 has a wider gap to close. A study highlights how past corrections have shaped recovery timelines.

Livemint 12 Aug 2026 8:11 pm

Gold prices are soaring, but buyers are still stepping up festive purchases

Gold prices have surged significantly, encouraging consumers to buy the yellow metal. Expectations of further price increases are driving purchases ahead of the festive season. Consumers are adapting by choosing lighter designs and lower-carat gold options. Jewellery purchases for festivals remain driven by tradition and sentiment. Buyers are increasingly focusing on a fixed budget rather than weight.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:10 pm

CAG flags 401 crore GST lapses in works contracts, findings accepted

The CBIC accepted observations in 903 of the 1,334 cases detected by the auditor, involving Rs 268.36 crore, and has recovered Rs 15.88 crore so far.

Business Standard 12 Aug 2026 8:09 pm

Maharashtra FDA suspends licenses of four Domino's Pizza outlets over hygiene norms' violation

Maharashtra FDA suspended four Domino's Pizza outlet licenses for hygiene violations. This action follows a recent suspension of a Blink Commerce facility due to infestations. Reliance Retail also faced scrutiny after live larvae were found in a sweet. The food authority has intensified statewide inspections and crackdowns on food outlets. Ayurvedic drug manufacturers received show-cause notices for serious compliance issues.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:05 pm

Indias exports increased by about 15 per cent in April-July: Goyal

Indias $4 trillion economy is set to become $30 trillion by 2047, the Minister said

The Hindu Businessline 12 Aug 2026 8:04 pm

Wednesday star Jenna Ortega reveals she avoided food for work: What exactly happens when you skip meals regularly?

Jenna Ortega revealed childhood struggles as an actor. She neglected basic needs like food and water to avoid inconveniencing others. This behaviour is not a healthy fast, especially for children. Research on intermittent fasting shows adult benefits, but not for prolonged deprivation. Ortega's experience highlights pressures faced by young performers.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:03 pm

Deaths, damage reported as severe weather spawns tornadoes, flash flooding in the Midwest

A series of vicious storms ravaged the Midwest, unleashing tornadoes and heavy rainfall. The storm's fury left hundreds of thousands without power, as fallen trees and wires littered the area. Sadly, several lives were lost due to the unforgiving weather. In response, emergency teams executed water rescues as flooding affected numerous states. Forecasts suggest that severe thunderstorms and intense rainfall may persist in the coming days.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 8:03 pm

Quote of the day by Confucius: 'To put the family in order, we must first...' Life lessons from inspirational quote on outer peace, self-discipline, well-guided heart, inner character and harmony

Quote of the day by Confucius explains how personal discipline can shape family life and influence society. The teaching, found in The Great Learning, presents a chain that begins with the heart, moves to personal conduct and family life, and then extends to leadership, social order and harmony. Its message focuses on responsibility, self-control and daily choices.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:58 pm

Karnataka Cabinet reshuffle: CM DK Shivakumar allocates portfolios to 19 ministers

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar allocated portfolios to nineteen ministers. Senior minister Ramalinga Reddy moved to Forest, Environment and Ecology. Health Minister UT Khader received additional charge of Minority Welfare. Ballari Rural MLA B Nagendra was allotted Planning and Statistics portfolio. AS Ponnanna was appointed political secretary with Cabinet rank.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:57 pm

Japanese tyre maker Yokohama to invest $100 million in India over 1-3 years

Yokohama India plans a USD 100 million investment over the next three years. This expansion aims to meet rising demand for SUV tyres following GST reforms. The company will increase its tyre production capacity from 4.5 million to 6.3 million units. Yokohama India will focus its growth strategy on tier three and four markets. A new premium tyre range, GEOLANDAR X-CV, has also been launched.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:52 pm

Why some people say take care instead of bye Psychology says the difference may reveal how they relate to you

Psychology suggests that the real challenge is not making decisions we will never regret. It is developing enough psychological flexibility to recognize when an old justification has stopped serving us, and allowing ourselves to choose differently without treating that change as an admission that we were foolish all along.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:52 pm

EU, 26 countries condemn Iran's executions of protesters

The European Union and twenty-six nations have condemned Iran's executions of protesters. These countries urged Iran to listen to its people and respect human rights. They also called for an immediate end to the death penalty. Furthermore, the nations demanded the release of all arbitrarily detained individuals. This joint statement was announced by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:50 pm

Nazi salutes at French synagogue: What happened to the Russian teen

A French court has sentenced a Russian man for performing Nazi salutes near a synagogue. He received eight months in prison and a permanent ban from France. A second man, a French national, also received a six-month prison sentence. The convictions address rising concerns over antisemitism in France. This ruling sends a clear message about consequences for extremist conduct.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:50 pm

FD rates: Which banks are offering the best returns on fixed deposits right now?

DCB Bank, RBL Bank, YES Bank, Tamilnad Mercantile Bank and Jammu & Kashmir Bank are among the banks offering some of the highest FD interest rates across various tenures for deposits of up to 1 crore.

Livemint 12 Aug 2026 7:50 pm

Key Largo used a sealed underwater habitat 22 feet below the surface to test prolonged human immersion; the result revealed a startling effect as a professor emerged after 100 days with his spine compressed and his height reduced by half an inch

Joseph Dituri spent 100 days underwater in a 100-square-foot habitat near Key Largo, Florida. The extreme experiment changed more than his routine. He reported being about half an inch shorter after resurfacing. His spine had adapted to prolonged pressure and confinement. The finding offers a striking lesson about the human body. Height is not always fixed. Pressure, gravity, movement and rest can all reshape how we measure ourselves.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:49 pm

Container rail movement commences between Chennai port and ICD Sanathnagar

The inaugural movement, operated by CONCOR in association with OOCL, comprised a 40-wagon container rake with 14 FEUs and 18 TEUs, aggregating 46 TEUs

The Hindu Businessline 12 Aug 2026 7:48 pm

India needs to double infra investments to Rs 40 lakh cr/year to achieve growth ambitions: NaBFID MD

India must double infrastructure investments to forty lakh crore rupees annually. This significant scaling up is crucial for achieving long-term economic growth ambitions. Manufacturing capital expenditure also requires substantial and continuous investment for sustainable growth. Growing domestic long-term savings will increasingly finance infrastructure and other long-duration assets. Financial institutions will need to originate projects and distribute exposure to other investors.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:47 pm

In 1937, Amelia Earhart disappeared during her around-the-world flight. A new mission now aims to solve the 90-year-old mystery

An exciting new expedition is set to uncover the secrets of Nikumaroro Island in search of Amelia Earhart's missing aircraft. With researchers targeting a peculiar object identified in satellite images, they plan to utilize a hydraulic dredge to investigate this intriguing anomaly close to the lagoon. This quest holds the promise of revealing tangible evidence supporting the Nikumaroro survival theory, aiming to resolve one of aviation's most captivating mysteries.

The Economic Times 12 Aug 2026 7:46 pm