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Leon Black faces contempt vote over Epstein matter
Gold prices in India rose nearly 0.65% today amid US-Iran conflict uncertainties. Check retail rates of both gold and silver in top metro cities of India today.
RBI backs MDR on large-value UPI transactions, says users will pay no fee
In a post on X, the central bank said the move would help UPI continue to scale and innovate while serving consumers and businesses across the country
Nagaland Government Plans Framework to Boost Live Entertainment Economy
The Nagaland government is developing a framework to enhance the live entertainment economy, aiming to create jobs and promote tourism. Nagaland Government Plans Framework to Boost Live Entertainment Economy
Former CEO Aditya Kulkarni described modern parenting in Indian metros as a well furnished prison, arguing that families have lost the village-like support once provided by neighbours and grandparents. Parents now pay for nannies, daycare and other services while managing demanding careers. He said every arrangement comes with a cost, whether money, career, parental presence or retirement, leaving families with difficult trade-offs.
UPI MDR from October 15: Will your mutual fund SIP, insurance premium or OTT AutoPay get costlier?
UPI will introduce MDR on select merchant payments above 2,000 from 15 October, but the new charge does not apply uniformly to all UPI transactions. Mutual fund SIPs through UPI AutoPay remain outside the prescribed MDR, while one-time capital-market payments get a lower 0.02% rate.
US military port project in Palau revives WWII memories, stokes fears
Palau plans a significant US military port expansion next year. This project aims to berth US Navy ships and deepen the harbor. Locals worry about becoming a target in potential superpower conflicts. Environmentalists express concerns about marine life and coral reef damage. The government seeks assurances for safety and environmental protection during construction.
Breaking News Live Updates: Houthi official calls Saudi claim of drone attack near Mecca a lie
From 15 October, NPCI's new MDR policy will apply to certain UPI transactions. Here's how the merchant charges compare with credit card and debit card fees, and credit-linked UPI.
UPI charges from Oct 15; Activates maiden fund
Products made by UP self-help groups to be available on online platforms
More than 3,000 products made by self-help groups (SHGs) in villages across the state can be ordered through Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, Prerna Mart, e-Saras and ONDC
Yogi Cabinet clears ethanol plant in Mathura, new toy manufacturing policy
Sugarcane Minister Chaudhary Lakshmi Narayan said the Cabinet had approved a proposal to restart the sugar mill in Chhata tehsil of Mathura district, which had been closed 19 years ago
A postgraduate medical student received 18.34 lakh as a stipend from Aligarh Muslim University, but the Income Tax Department treated it as taxable salary. The Delhi ITAT held that the stipend was linked to her education and compulsory residency training and allowed the Section 10(16) exemption.
Wealth Management in India: 7 trends reshaping how wealthy Indians invest
Indias affluent investors are moving beyond traditional savings towards diversified portfolios, alternative assets, professional advice, and longer-term wealth planning. Read on to know where the money is flowing!
PE exits in tech services stretch thin
Premji Invest may lead funding round in Lets Try
Activate closes maiden fund at $105 million
Psychology says people who are not able to speak properly in front of a crowd aren't incapable or less intelligent. Public speaking anxiety can trigger the body's survival response, leading to a racing heart, sweating, muscle tension and difficulty recalling words. Psychology links this reaction to social rejection, fear of negative evaluation and learned responses. Understanding the process can help people prepare, reframe anxiety and build confidence through gradual exposure.
Wind turbines can last for decades against the punishing winds, but what happens when they reach the end of their lives? A group of researchers from China did the impossible they came across a technology which would transform the blades to concrete for making roads.
India's Pivotal Role In Salesforce's AI Strategy
Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff highlights India's crucial role in the company's shift to an AI-first enterprise system. He emphasized India's vast pool of technology professionals and partners as key to this transformation, underscoring the country's importance in Salesforce's global strategy.
Bessent Vs Waters Shouting Match Erupts As Economy Hearing Heats Up | Watch
Rep. Maxine Waters and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent clashed during a heated House Financial Services Committee hearing over tariffs, inflation and the Trump administrations economic policies. Waters repeatedly reclaimed her time as she pressed Bessent on the impact of tariffs and rising prices. The exchange escalated when Bessent told Waters, Youre not making sense. The fiery confrontation came as lawmakers questioned the Treasury secretary about inflation, interest rates and the administrations broader economic agenda.
More households are moving up the income ladder: How India's wealth pyramid could change by FY31
Indias income pyramid is shifting rapidly, with millions of households moving into higher-income brackets. As earnings rise, spending patterns, savings, and investment behaviour are also changing.
Consumer watchdog steps up probe into Apple on iOs 18 software update issues
Consumer watchdog investigates Apple for potential iOS 18 user rights violations. This probe follows numerous complaints regarding device malfunctions after the software update. The authority also imposed a significant penalty on ride-hailing platform Rapido. Rapido was fined for employing misleading interface designs and dark patterns. These practices were found to steer customers towards higher payments for rides.
Mobiles phones with low specs make a comeback in premium market
Entry-level smartphones with 2GB or 3GB RAM are making a comeback. Brands like Itel and Lava are targeting this segment with new models. Major brands have shifted focus to premium phones, leaving a market gap. Shipments in this segment have significantly declined due to rising costs. However, demand for budget phones remains strong, especially in smaller towns.
Decoding Indias GDP base revision
A major driver of the revision in nominal GDP in the case of India is the improved measurement of Indias unincorporated services sector
Air India Board clears all decks as new chief Tewolde Gebremariam enters the cockpit
Air India's board met to discuss operational priorities and remuneration for incoming CEO Tewolde Gebremariam. Outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson presented the airline's current operational position and progress made. Chairman N Chandrasekaran outlined expectations for the new leadership's focus on reliability and execution. Gebremariam will now lead the airline's demanding turnaround stage and integration efforts. The board also acknowledged Wilson's contributions to Air India's transformational journey.
Key Partnership For India's High-Altitude UAV Development
An Indian firm, Bharat Forge, and US defence major Pratt and Whitney Canada have announced a collaboration to develop India's high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This partnership will focus on integrating advanced turboprop engines into the DRDO-designed HALE UAV, bolstering India's indigenous defence capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The collaboration aims to enhance India's strategic self-reliance in surveillance and reconnaissance technology.
Centre rap pushes BHEL to diversify beyond thermal
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited is pursuing coal gasification and coal-to-chemicals opportunities. The company expects progress in hydro power and pumped-storage projects this fiscal year. This strategic shift follows a recent assessment regarding its Maharatna company status. BHEL holds a substantial executable order book, with thermal business as its main anchor. The firm aims to build growth in non-thermal sectors as the power industry evolves.
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages lines up 1,127 crore for new unit, expansion in Andhra Pradesh
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages is set to invest over Rs 1000 crore in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on enhancing beverage production. A new manufacturing unit will be built in Vizianagaram, complementing the expansion of an existing facility. This strategic move, sanctioned by the State Investment Promotion Committee, aims to meet the increasing demand for beverages across southern India.
BNP Government of Bangladesh reviews 101 pacts signed with India
Dhaka is reviewing one hundred and one agreements signed with New Delhi. Bureaucrats trained in India over the past decade may face scrutiny. The ruling party alleges past governments compromised national interests with a friendly nation. Goods-laden vehicles from that country were reportedly allowed free road use.
Flipkart plans to hire 250,000 workers to meet festive blitz
Flipkart plans to hire over 250,000 workers for the upcoming festive season. This significant recruitment drive will increase last-mile delivery positions by 60 percent. Approximately 75,000 new workers will be entering the workforce for the first time. The company is expanding its delivery network with new hubs and employment opportunities. This expansion aims to meet rising customer demand during the Big Billion Days event.
El Nio effect: Kharif crops, winter sowing face stress as drought hits 53% of India
El Nio effect: El Nio has left more than 50% of India grappling with drought conditions, severely affecting kharif crops currently in the fields. Maharashtra has been particularly hard hit, with extreme drought affecting a large part of its agricultural areas. Other key agricultural states are also experiencing varying levels of drought, raising concerns about crop yields and soil moisture levels as winter sowing approaches.
US seeks details of India's rice stocks used for Ethanol output
The United States has sought details from India on the use of rice for ethanol production. Washington has alleged that Indias rice stocks exceed food security requirements, affecting global trade. Indias price support policies have also been cited as contributing to higher domestic rice supplies. The World Trade Organization is expected to discuss these concerns later this month. Indias allocation of rice for ethanol production has reportedly increased significantly.
US Congressman names India, China in Russia Sanctions Bill
US lawmakers are considering tariffs on Russia's oil trading partners, including India. One amendment proposes 100% tariffs on countries like India and China. Another amendment seeks to remove the tariff provision entirely from the bill. India's energy sourcing policy prioritizes national interests amid these developments.
ED to fast-track 10 big PMLA cases in each region
The Enforcement Directorate aims to expedite money-laundering trials within eight months. Zonal offices will identify key cases for accelerated prosecution and conviction. A new trial monitoring system will track case progress and delays. The agency is also expanding its sanctioned strength by sixty percent. This structural change will enhance the directorate's operational capabilities significantly.
Benjamin Grahams The Intelligent Investor advises on understanding investments through careful examination. Check out these 5 simple money lessons from the celebrated book.
Indias goods exports surged in August, driven by robust global demand, while the trade deficit narrowed to a five-month low as imports declined. Key free trade agreements are on track for finalisation, while exporters are being prepared for the European Unions Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Trade ministers are also set to address bilateral concerns and review the status of ongoing free trade negotiations.
WTO cites India-EFTA trade deal as unilateral mechanism to achieve market access outcome
Trade agreements beyond the multilateral trading system can also offer examples whereby unilateral enforcement mechanisms have been tailored to the particular market access outcome arrived upon, according to the WTOs World Trade Report 2026. Given the target-based structure of the FDI commitment, the parties chose an enforcement mechanism which would permit India to unilaterally reimpose tariffs if it determined that the targets had not been met, the WTO said.
Government clarifies credit card-linked UPI payments exempt from 0.4% fee
The clarification comes ahead of the revised UPI fee structure, which is scheduled to take effect from October 15. Under the new framework, a 0.4% MDR will be applicable to certain direct account-to-merchant-account UPI payments above 2,000, with the fee capped at 300 per transaction
Mutual fund investors cannot always rely on a schemes category to determine capital gains tax. The actual portfolio allocation and tax classification can change the holding-period threshold and tax rate. Heres what investors should check before redeeming.
ET Under 40 2026: As AI races ahead, leaders urged to put purpose above success
Sivakumar Sundaram highlighted the importance of collective purpose at The Economic Times awards, urging awardees to utilize recognition as a foundation for ongoing contributions. He addressed the swift evolution of AI and stressed the necessity for aligning human values with technology. Cautioning against becoming overly reliant on devices, he emphasized that maintaining relevance demands a continual showcase of one's value and capability.
Nelson Mandela's wisdom teaches us the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. He championed the fight against apartheid and racial oppression in South Africa. His insights remind us that failure is merely a stepping stone on our path. Embracing our failures with an optimistic mindset can yield true success. By learning from our setbacks, we rediscover our strength to rise again.
Introduce UCC Bill in Parliament instead of pushing it via states: Omar to BJP
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the BJP's uniform civil code approach. He stated the bill should be introduced in Parliament, not through individual states. Abdullah argued that implementing the code state-by-state would not make it universal. He noted that not all NDA allies agree with the uniform civil code proposal. The Chief Minister emphasized Parliament represents the entire country, not individual states.
The US eradicated this flesh-eating parasite decades ago. Now it is detected in Texas and New Mexico
After vanishing for decades, the New World screwworm has made a distressing return to the United States. To address this threat, scientists have created an advanced tracking system designed to foresee potential infestations. The U.S. is leveraging the Sterile Insect Technique, which has previously demonstrated success. Coordinated actions are underway to ensure this parasite does not regain its former presence throughout the country.
NPS Vatsalya: Rules for withdrawal and exit from scheme, explained
National pension scheme: The NPS Vatsalya Scheme allows children below 18 years to partially withdraw funds from their accounts under certain circumstances. We take a look at the process and how it works
DGFT should review notification aligning ITC(HS) code with Finance Act 2026
The real test is whether a bank can refuse to close an otherwise eligible entry merely because the customer disputes or declines to pay the charge.
UPI MDR: RBI Explains New Transaction Fee
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has endorsed the introduction of a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, which levies a 0.4 per cent fee on merchant payments above the threshold, aims to bolster the long-term sustainability and growth of India's digital payments ecosystem. The RBI clarified that person-to-person (P2P) transactions and small person-to-merchant (P2M) payments below Rs 2,000 will remain free for users, ensuring no direct charge on customers.
Only 17% merchants willing to bear 0.4% MDR on UPI payments: Survey
LocalCircles survey finds 41% of merchants unwilling to bear any MDR on UPI payments above Rs 2,000, while 9% do not accept UPI payments
On December 8, GE Renewable Energy initiated a partnership with French waste management firm Veolia to recycle old blades from onshore wind turbines in the United States. The programme gave outdated turbine blades a new chance at life as a component of cement, making it the first recycling deal of its sort in the American wind energy industry.
Donald Trump's childhood residence in Queens has recently fetched $1.93 million. This charming Tudor-style home, featuring five bedrooms, had fallen into notable disrepair prior to its restoration. A diligent developer poured in $500,000 and spent eight months revitalising the property. This house provides a fascinating window into the early years of the once-future president, located within the prestigious Jamaica Estates neighbourhood, which his father transformed into a thriving empire.
RBI backs MDR on large-value UPI transactions, says could help expand UPI acceptance
The Reserve Bank of India supports Merchant Discount Rate on large UPI transactions. This move aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of India's digital payments ecosystem. New provisions will apply MDR to person-to-merchant transactions exceeding two thousand rupees. Person-to-person transactions and smaller merchant payments will remain free of charge.
5 early signs to watch: Lifestyle creep sneaks in after every promotion; how to overcome it
A promotion often leads to lifestyle creep, where increased spending diminishes savings. Check the importance of examining expenses post-promotion to maintain financial discipline.
UPI MDR seen as sustenance fee, not windfall; small merchants remain shielded
A new merchant discount rate will fund UPI's expanding infrastructure costs. Large value person-to-merchant transactions above two thousand rupees will incur a fee. This framework shields small merchants and everyday consumer transactions from charges. The revenue distribution aims to support issuing banks and payment applications. This policy seeks to ensure UPI's long-term financial sustainability and accessibility.
RBI may hike rates by 25 bps each in Oct & Dec as inflation may cross 6%
Economists say the rate hike cycle could be shallow, with 50-75 bps hike in the current cycle
Apple under scrutiny: India's consumer protection body steps up probe over iOS 18 related complaints
The Central Consumer Protection Authority has begun a detailed investigation into Apple's iPhone technical issues. This action follows a year of ongoing complaints from users after the iOS 18 update. A recent survey shows increased iPhone user complaints, which will aid the authority's probe. LocalCircles advocates for a class action, noting users await a proper fix.
Indian government allocates record sugar sales quota for September to rein in retail prices
The quota announcement comes ahead of Dussehra even as retail prices drop below 60 a kg
India ramps up preparedness for European Union's carbon tax; verifiers begin EU registry access
India is taking proactive steps by establishing a committee dedicated to assisting exporters in fulfilling the EU carbon tax requirements. This month, Indian verifiers are granted access to the EU's carbon tax registry, and from September 2027, domestic exporters will be mandated to submit returns. The government is actively collaborating with exporters to facilitate compliance and streamline verification efforts.
Livestock feed makers see rising competition for maize from ethanol producers
Want Goverment to secure supplies for feed sector as maize is single source of feedstock, says CLFMA Chairman Divya Kumar Gulati
Customs duty hike impact: Gold imports contract to USD 2.3 billion in August
Indias gold imports declined significantly in August following an increase in customs duty, while silver imports rose sharply during the month. However, during the April-August period, cumulative gold imports increased, whereas silver imports declined. Switzerland remained the largest source of gold imports, accounting for a significant share.
The commission's three-day visit to Chandigarh from September 16-18 will focus on employee and pensioner issues. Here's a look at what's on the agenda for meetings with representatives from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and the UT of Chandigarh.
Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'
A LinkedIn post by Pooja Sahu, detailing her husband Sourabh's sudden layoff from Oracle after 12 years of dedicated service, including working through holidays and even from a hospital, has gone viral, capturing the emotional toll of the tech giant's latest job cuts.
Dhiraj Bommadevara, a 25-year-old youth from Andhra Pradesh, made Indian proud by winning the men's individual title at the Archery World Cup Final 2026. Business tycoon Anand Mahindra took to X to congratulate the youth on his milestone and also wondered if the golden age of Indian archery has arrived.
High food inflation seen in August unlikely to persist: CEA Nageswaran
CEA V Anantha Nageswaran said India's economic momentum remained intact despite global risks and expressed confidence in meeting the FY27 fiscal deficit target.
Penguin Random House India to publish The Ideas That Shaped India and Its Economy
An ambitious intellectual history of nearly 150 years of Indian economic thought, tracing the debates, thinkers and ideas that shaped modern India
Goyal-Greer meeting likely on G20 sidelines in Milwaukee
India expects the bilateral trade agreement and other pending issues to figure in talks
Insolvency appeals are time-bound, no leeway beyond 45 days: NCLAT
The NCLAT stressed insolvency proceedings are time-bound and appeals must be filed promptly. An appeal against a revival order was rejected for exceeding the allowed time. The tribunal noted a maximum 15-day condonable period for delayed filings. The suspended director's explanation for delay was deemed insufficient by the bench. Consequently, the appeal was declared not maintainable and dismissed by the NCLAT.
Indias exports to US rise 21.83%, China shipments jump 52.35% in August
The latest trade data showed strong growth across key markets, even as Indias shipments to some major destinations declined during August.
WTO warns global output could fall up to 10% without stronger multilateral trade rules
Shifting economic power, rising state intervention, digitalisation, the green transition, and geopolitical tensions are making cooperation more complex: World Trade Report 2026
Telangana tops India's inflation table for eighth consecutive month
Telangana recorded the highest combined inflation among states in August at 6.27 per cent, while rural inflation exceeded urban inflation across most leading states.
TREV sues Trevel over EV-cab brand as rivals chase 22,000-crore market
Delhi High Court has not granted an interim injunction; trademark fight returns to court on September 18 as EV-cab rivals chase 22,000-crore market
AU Small Finance Bank bolsters leadership ahead of universal bank transition
AU Small Finance Bank appointed two new senior executives to its leadership team. Anil Agarwal and Amol Padhye joined the bank as part of its strategic expansion. These appointments precede the bank's planned transition into a universal bank. AU received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India. The bank must complete this significant transition within eighteen months.
Talk about cool recycling! Old wind turbine blades are getting a second life as stylish sneakers. Spanish companies are turning this waste into awesome new products. They chop up the blades, mix them with rubber, and voil new shoe soles! It's a neat sign of how the renewable energy world is getting more sustainable.
UPI Fee: Congress Slams 'Modi Tax', BJP Hits Back
The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a Modi tax and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.
Northern Railway has introduced an OTP-based digital luggage locker system at four major railway stations in Delhi, allowing passengers to store and retrieve their luggage independently and securely without assistance from railway staff. The facility is currently operational at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations, while Anand Vihar Terminal and Delhi Junction will become operational shortly. Passengers can use their mobile numbers for OTP verification, making the process of storing and collecting luggage convenient and hassle-free.
NPCI releases MDR framework for UPI transactions Here's what changes for merchant payments
UPI will remain free for all person-to-person transactions, merchant payments up to 2,000, and for small merchants, as per the NPCI's MDR framework. The organisation said it aims to promote digital payments and ensure UPI's sustainability.
Yes Bank has approached the Supreme Court challenging a recent Delhi High Court directive. The court ordered a forensic audit into the sale of Fortis Healthcare shares. Yes Bank argues it was not a party to the original arbitration proceedings. However, the bank does not oppose auditing Fortis and its former promoters. It will provide relevant transaction information within legal limits.
AISATS personnel under scanner over Air India hub-and-spoke immigration lapse
Ground-handling personnel suspended pending investigation, industry insider says
By reserving a fixed percentage of income immediately, individuals can reduce reliance on discipline and make spending decisions more manageable. Check all 8 tricks.
New UPI MDR rules explained: Will you pay more? What it means for users like you and me
UPI remains free for person-to-person payments under new MDR rules. Here's what changes for merchant payments and what it means for users like you and me.
Zetwerk gets factory-heavy as manufacturing order book hits 12,370 cr
The company operated 26 owned manufacturing facilities across India, the US, Spain and Germany as of March 31, 2026
Saatvik Green Energy bags order worth Rs 1042 crore from SECI
Saatvik Green Energy has clinched a substantial Rs 1,041.63 crore order from SECI to supply solar PV modules. This pivotal agreement, set to be fulfilled by December 2027, underscores a significant milestone for the renewable energy landscape. With this contract, Saatvik solidifies its position as a key player in advancing clean energy initiatives, promoting sustainable practices and innovation.
Beneath San Franciscos bustling streets lies a forgotten maritime past. During the Gold Rush of 1849, thousands of fortune seekers arrived in ships that were abandoned promptly when they felt in search of gold. By 1851, more than 800 vessels crowded Yerba Buena Cove, transforming its once-muddy shores into a forest of towering masts.
UPI Payments Above Rs 2,000 Face 0.4% MDR, Know- Who Will Actually Pay?
UPI merchant payments above Rs 2,000 face up to 0.4 percent MDR from October 15, but consumers, smaller transactions and eligible vendors remain exempt.
Rapido has been fined 10 lakh by the CCPA over prompts that allegedly nudged riders to pay more before rides were confirmed. Heres what the regulator found, how dark patterns can influence spending and what consumers should check before agreeing to pay extra.
Remidio Gets Japan Patent For AI-Powered Retinal Scan
Bengaluru-based Remidio Innovative Solutions has secured a patent from the Japan Patent Office for its deep learning system that automates retinal image capture. This new patent enhances their existing intellectual property in Japan, strengthening their integrated AI platform and making retinal screening more accessible and cost-effective.
Goods exports surge 26% in August to $43.8 billion, trade deficit narrows
The major drivers of trade deficit have been energy items like petroleum, crude and coal, coke and briquettes, and electronic goods
Kamarajar Port initiates plans for 1,200 crore IPO; issues RFP to hire domestic legal counsel
The selected legal counsel will manage end-to-end legal and secretarial due diligence, draft key offer documents
UPI Payments To Merchants Now Attract Charges
The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments exceeding Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, marking the end of nearly six years of free service. Person-to-person transfers and small-value transactions below Rs 2,000 remain free. The new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) is capped at Rs 300 for transactions above Rs 75,000, with differentiated rates for essential sectors and investments, and safeguards to prevent costs from being passed to consumers.
SBI targets Rs 2.4 lakh crore wealth management market, eyes shareholder value growth
State Bank of India is expanding its wealth management services to existing customers. The bank aims to manage significant investments for affluent clients. SBI is also developing new growth engines like acquisition financing. These initiatives are projected to enhance shareholder value over time. Analysts suggest these new ventures will take time to impact profits.
Chennai air cargo terminals face delays of up to 5 days, exporters turn to Bengaluru
Industry representatives have sought urgent measures to ease cargo movement, citing warehouse constraints, manpower shortages and traffic restrictions at Chennai airport
