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Surging gold prices take sheen off jewellery sales in festive season

The subdued trend followed a 15% year-on-year fall in gold sales by volume during Ganesh Chaturthi a month earlier. Jewellers are now counting on Dhanteras, a key gold-buying occasion, to revive demand.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 11:30 pm

Which transactions can trigger notice from Income Tax Department? Know rules for large cash deposits and UPI transfers

Large UPI transfers do not automatically trigger income tax notices, but unexplained bank credits can attract scrutiny. From freelancers to individuals receiving money for others, here's when digital transactions may raise red flags and what records to keep.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 11:21 pm

Supreme Court upholds Shree Naman Developers' acquisition of Bengaluru, Pune hotel under NCLT proceedings

The Supreme Court has upheld insolvency proceedings against Gstaad Hotels and Neo Capricorn Plaza. This decision arises while clarifying that disputes over outstanding debt do not prevent corporate insolvency resolution. The National Company Law Tribunal approved resolution plans exceeding the companies' admitted liabilities. Challenges to these proceedings were rejected, emphasizing that historical defaults occurred despite arguments on financial management. The ruling maintains the legality of the insolvency process moving forward.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 10:35 pm

Mumbai Port invites global bids for Rs 922.67 crore marina at Victoria Dock

Mumbai Port Authority has initiated a global bidding process for the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina project. This project, estimated to cost Rs 922.67 crore, will be developed using the DBFOT model. It encompasses a water area of 37.3 hectares and aims to accommodate 604 yachts at full build-out. Marine works such as breakwater construction and dredging are already underway as per the submitted plans.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 10:10 pm

FSSAI notice to Nestle, Abbott, Nutricia, Mead Johnson, influencer Ira Johnson on illegal advertising on Instagram

In a social media post on Wednesday, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said it also issued notices to Ira Fathima, Nutricia International and Mead Johnson Nutrition (India).

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 10:07 pm

I&B ministry cautions TV channels against AI misuse, calls for stronger editorial oversight

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory regarding AI use in news broadcasts. It cautioned channels to strengthen editorial oversight while adhering to the Programme Code. Concerns were raised about similar broadcasts and violations relating to sensitive content coverage. Broadcasters are encouraged to undertake regular training for editorial staff to ensure compliance. Violations of the Programme Code could lead to regulatory actions under applicable laws.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:47 pm

Term insurance claim amount rejected after death: Which common mistakes can put your family's payout at risk? List here

Term insurance provides a death benefit to beneficiaries during a fixed policy term, helping families manage debts and future expenses. Here's why a claim can get rejected.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 9:42 pm

IT stocks gain 77,000 crore in value as banking shares weigh on Nifty

IT stocks gained 77,000 crore in market value, cushioning the Nifty's 0.34% decline on Wednesday, while banking and financial stocks lost around 81,000 crore amid rising bond yields.

Business Standard 21 Oct 2026 9:18 pm

We have to change the conversation from media costs to business value: Publicis Media's Lalatendu Das

India's advertising sector is experiencing a transformative phase driven by innovations in artificial intelligence and the rise of the creator economy. Marketers are prioritizing agencies that provide tangible business outcomes over mere media optimization. As a result, there is a transition in advertising budgets from traditional celebrity endorsements to content created by influencers.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:17 pm

RBI imposes restrictions on Puducherry Co-op Urban Bank, caps withdrawals

The Reserve Bank of India imposed restrictions on Puducherry Co-operative Urban Bank due to financial instability. Customers are limited to withdrawals of Rs 5,000 over the next six months. The bank's recent lack of compliance with supervisory concerns prompted these regulatory actions. Eligible depositors can claim up to Rs 5 lakh through the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 8:42 pm

Ramayana: Part One to arrive on JioHotstar via pay-per-view after theatrical run

JioHotstar has announced a partnership with Prime Focus Studios for Ramayana: Part One's pay-per-view release. The film will premiere in cinemas worldwide on November 5, 2026, coinciding with Diwali celebrations. It will be available in multiple languages, including IMAX 3D format, enhancing viewing experiences. After its theatrical run, audiences can purchase access to the film on JioHotstar.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 8:38 pm

Sundaram Mutual Fund announces launch of Equity Ex-Top 100 Long Short Fund through its SIF platform Select

Sundaram Mutual has launched its Select Equity Ex-Top 100 Long Short Fund, targeting mid- and small-cap stocks ranked 101st to 750th by market capitalisation. The NFO closes November 4, with limited short exposure through derivatives.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 6:03 pm

Business Banking Platform Nomba Extends Its Congo Payments Network Into Zambia

Nomba, the Nigerian business banking platform, said on Wednesday that it had extended its payments service in the Democratic Republic of Congo into neighboring Zambia. The []

startupuniversal 21 Oct 2026 5:51 pm

New policy in works to boost agrivoltaics in India; enhance farmers' income via energy generation

India's government is formulating a policy to enhance the adoption of agrivoltaics across the country. This initiative aims to increase farmers' income by combining agricultural production with solar energy generation. States with significant agrivoltaic potential include Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, accounting for nearly half of India's cropland suitable for this practice.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 5:29 pm

Retirement planning: How much should you invest in stocks and mutual funds after 60? Here's what expert suggests

Retirement planning requires balancing equity exposure with income security. Freefincal's M. Pattabiraman suggests limiting equity to 30% for typical retirees while accounting for inflation, market volatility and long-term withdrawal needs.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 5:15 pm

Delhi: Rooftop solar registrations cross 1 lakh mark; outskirts lead adoption

Delhi Power minister Ashish Sood said that the rising registration numbers were a milestone in clean energy. The adoption of solar energy shows distinct trends across different areas in Delhi, with city outskirts and industrial hubs like Bawana and Narela leading in registration numbers.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 5:10 pm

SBI cyber attack update: State Bank of India says customer balances are completely safe despite data leak

The State Bank of India has acknowledged a recent data breach that resulted in the exposure of limited customer information. Assuring its clients, the bank confirmed that financial assets remain secure.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 5:07 pm

SLMG Beverages eyes Rs 20,000 cr turnover in 5 yrs, IPO in 3-4 years

SLMG Beverages, a major Coca-Cola bottler in India, is targeting a turnover of Rs 20,000 crore in five years. The company has plans to list on stock exchanges before reaching its turnover goal. Currently, SLMG Beverages has a gross turnover of approximately Rs 9,000 crore and aims to increase that significantly. Investments in new bottling facilities and chilling equipment are underway to meet rising demand.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 5:01 pm

AlphaGrep Flexi Cap among top 5 flexi cap mutual funds with highest mid and small cap exposure in September 2026

Flexi-cap funds can invest across market capitalisations and sectors. In September 2026, AlphaGrep Flexi Cap Fund led five peers with 66.2% exposure to mid and small-cap stocks, followed by Old Bridge and Samco.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 5:01 pm

Market's early rally fizzles out as banking, financial stocks weigh on benchmarks

The 30-share BSE Sensex fell 484.98 points, or 0.66%, to 73,367.92

The Hindu 21 Oct 2026 4:43 pm

SRF Ltd announces 600 crore aluminium foil manufacturing plant in Madhya Pradesh for battery applications

SRF Ltd has secured board approval for a proposed 600 crore aluminium foil manufacturing facility in Madhya Pradesh. This plant will cater to aluminium foil needs for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. The facility will have a capacity of approximately 12,000 metric tons per annum and will be built in two phases. The first phase is expected to be completed by September 30, 2028.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 4:34 pm

Blinkit expects to cross 3,500 stores by FY27

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 4:21 pm

Last date alert! Income tax audit deadline ends today: Who must file? What happens if you miss the due date?

Tax audit reports for AY 2026-27 are due October 21, 2026, while audited taxpayers income tax returns are due November 21. Here's all you need to know to ensure compliance. 

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 4:10 pm

Mutual fund growth vs IDCW plans: Top 5 schemes returns compared, NAV differences What investors should know

Growth and IDCW options handle mutual fund earnings differently, affecting payouts, units held, and NAV. Returns across three equity schemes show similarities, but NAV alone cannot determine which option performs better. 

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 4:01 pm

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme: Have 30 lakh to invest? Check your quarterly interest, tax and maturity benefits

The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme offers 8.2% annual interest, allowing retirees to earn 61,500 every quarter on a 30 lakh investment. Here's how the scheme works, including eligibility, tax implications, maturity benefits and withdrawal rules.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 3:59 pm

Sanofi healthcare receives CDSCO approval for Qftilia therapy for haemophilia patients in India

Sanofi Healthcare has obtained authorisation from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation for Qfitlia. This therapy is designed to prevent bleeding in haemophilia patients aged 12 years and older. Qfitlia offers unique protection for Haemophilia A and B patients, requiring only six injections annually. The approval follows promising results from the ATLAS phase 3 clinical trials. This advancement aims to enhance access to treatment options for patients in India.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 3:39 pm

Gujarat asks factories to curb power usage as demand surges

Gujarat state has requested factories to limit their electricity consumption during peak evening hours from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The call comes amid rising power demand driven by increased industrial activity and insufficient coal supplies. Several states are seeking short-term coal power through tenders to address the shortages. India's coal inventories at power plants have decreased significantly, resulting in widened gaps between supply and demand.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 3:23 pm

Income tax audit report deadline today: How to check whether your CA has uploaded report on e-filing portal

Dont miss the deadline on October 21, 2026, for filing tax audit reports for Assessment Year 2026-27! Taxpayers can verify their report uploads on the e-filing portal. To complete the filing, they must collaborate with their chartered accountant to fill out Form 3CA-3CD or 3CB-3CD. After completion, the report needs to be accepted and e-verified from the Worklist to guarantee timely filing and acknowledgment receipt.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 3:21 pm

Multi-million dollar deals to clean dirty linen in public: How celebrities make massive fortunes with their memoirs

Publishers pay heavily for celebrity memoirs, which attract readers with intimate accounts of public figures lives. Nobody seems interested in reading about someone's happy childhood.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 3:20 pm

Essar Ports gets nod to develop Rs 2,276.06 crore multipurpose cargo terminal at Kandla

Essar Ports has been approved by Deendayal Port Authority to develop a cargo terminal at Tuna Tekra. The project, costing Rs 2,276.06 crore, will be built under a Build, Operate and Transfer model. It will have an annual capacity of 18.33 million tonnes and accommodate large vessels. Development includes common-user infrastructure, which aims to improve efficiency and connectivity. Essar Ports currently operates around 60 million tonnes capacity across multiple locations.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 3:05 pm

Wedding Season 2026: Gold prices crashed over 5% in a month Should you buy jewellery now or wait? Experts suggest

Gold prices in India have fallen nearly 5% in a month, offering potential relief to wedding shoppers. Should you buy jewellery now or wait for further price cuts? Experts explain the key factors to watch, buying strategies, and the outlook for gold prices before and after Diwali 2026.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 3:01 pm

NFO Alert: Choice Mutual Fund launches large & midcap fund, its first actively managed equity fund

Choice Mutual Fund has launched its inaugural actively managed equity scheme, the Choice Large & Mid Cap Fund. This fund is designed to allocate at least 35% of investments in both large and mid-cap stocks, with up to 30% in small-cap equities. Investors can join the fund with a minimum investment of Rs 1,000 and SIPs starting at Rs 250.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 2:35 pm

Varmora Granito H1 profit jumps 498% to Rs 53.7 cr; shares rise nearly 6%

Varmora Granito Ltd reported a 498 percent growth in profit after tax for the first half of the fiscal year. They saw a 3.3 percent rise in operational revenue, reaching Rs 714.2 crore. The September quarter brought a 9 percent year-on-year revenue spike alongside a profound 206 percent increase in profit after tax.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 2:30 pm

What goes wrong? Why most entertainment, sports celeb brands fail, struggle to make profits - These might be key reasons

Celebrity brands can attract attention, but lasting success depends on product quality, fair pricing, repeat purchases and sound management. 

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 2:20 pm

Zee Studios appoints Suraj Singh as business head

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. has appointed Suraj Singh to be the business head of Zee Studios. His tenure will commence on November 10, 2026, based in Mumbai. Singh's role will involve overseeing production, distribution, and expanding strategic partnerships for the studio. He brings over twenty years of experience in film production and business strategy from various significant companies.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 2:18 pm

Bonding with bonds: high yields possible, but be mindful of the risks

Double-digit bond yields can be attractive, but investors should remember that higher returns come with higher credit and default risks. 

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 2:13 pm

Deendayal Port Authority issues LoA to Essar Ports Ltd. to develop Multi-Purpose Cargo Terminal at Tuna Tekra

Deendayal Port Authority has issued a Letter of Award to Essar Ports Ltd. for developing a Multi-Purpose Cargo Terminal. This terminal will be located at Tuna Tekra port in Gujarat and is part of a Public-Private Partnership initiative. The project will operate on a Build-Operate-Transfer basis for a 30-year concession period. Essar Ports emerged as the highest bidder, offering a royalty to DPA.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 2:13 pm

Elder brother got 5 bigha land not younger brothers

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 1:56 pm

Government securities tax rules: How are interest income and capital gains taxed for resident and foreign investors?

How are government securities taxed in India? From interest income and capital gains on G-Secs, SDLs, SGBs and T-bills to the tax exemption available to foreign portfolio investors, here's what resident and foreign investors need to know.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 1:52 pm

L&T to build govt buildings in Delhi, AP under large order between Rs 2,500-5,000 crores

Larsen & Toubro Limited has secured significant orders to construct government buildings in Delhi and Andhra Pradesh. The projects involve constructing two office towers in Amaravati and Central Secretariat buildings in New Delhi. The scope of work includes structural, architectural, and external development elements for both projects. The New Delhi project is expected to be completed in 24 months, while the Amaravati towers will be finished in 30 months.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 1:40 pm

HDFC Bank investigates two senior executives over alleged leak of business secrets

HDFC Bank conducted an internal investigation after concerns about confidential information being leaked surfaced among executives. The probe discovered that two senior executives disclosed sensitive business strategies to outsiders, prompting further examination. This investigation is ongoing, and the involved executives have already been informed of the findings. The bank is committed to upholding ethical standards and will take appropriate action based on the investigation's results.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 1:36 pm

Gold rate today (October 21, 2026): Check 24k, 22k, 20k and 18k gold jewellery prices from IBJA, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Joyalukkas, Kalyan Jewellers and Tanishq

Gold rate today: Gold jewellery prices from leading brands such as Joyalukkas and Malabar Gold & Diamonds decreased significantly today. The IBJA's indicative rates for various gold purities also experienced a decline today compared to previous rate. Silver prices fell significantly, marking a notable change in the market.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 1:27 pm

Content India 2027 to bring 1,000-plus media and entertainment professionals to Mumbai

Taking place in Mumbai from March 10 to 12, Content India 2027 will draw upwards of 1,000 stakeholders from the media and entertainment world. This gathering will spotlight innovative technologies and foster international co-productions, striving to establish India as a premier hub for content creation. Organized by Dish TV India and C21Media, the event serves as a vital marketplace for collaboration and growth within the industry.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 1:26 pm

Gurgaon, Noida housing demand drops 8-9% as NCR property market cools

Housing demand in the National Capital Region showed a decline in the third quarter of 2026, particularly in Gurgaon and Noida. While demand grew across six major Indian metros, new launches in NCR experienced significant reductions. Bengaluru demonstrated strong demand growth and price appreciation, making it a standout market. Pune and Mumbai Metropolitan Region saw substantial increases in new supply ahead of the festive season.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 12:48 pm

Mutual funds got nearly 34% of Jio Platforms IPO anchor book allocation: Which schemes will own Jio shares? Expert views

Reliance Jio Platforms IPO saw 25 domestic mutual funds receive 34.34% of the anchor book allocation through 95 schemes. Here are the top 10 schemes that secured the highest allocations, how Jios listing could affect their returns, and what you should consider before making investment decisions.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 12:44 pm

Dinner with strangers, 1,500 a ticket: the economics of Indias at-home social clubs

From supper clubs to themed game nights, home-hosted events are becoming a paid social space. Attendees seek meaningful connections, while hosts balance ticket prices, costs and profitability.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 12:42 pm

Form 173A notified to claim exemption on G-Sec gains

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 12:34 pm

Hydrogen train science: Leak detectors, flame sensors and automatic fuel cut-off, how Railways has made Jind-Sonipat hydrogen train safer

Indian Railways has introduced multiple safety systems in the countrys first indigenous hydrogen-powered train, including hydrogen leak detectors, flame sensors, continuous ventilation and an automatic fuel cut-off mechanism. The systems are designed to detect potential hazards and respond quickly, while a dedicated emergency mode allows the loco pilot to move the train to safety if required. Inaugurated on July 17, 2026, the hydrogen fuel cell-powered train is set to operate on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway. The pilot project combines hydrogen-based propulsion with dedicated storage, refuelling and operational infrastructure as Indian Railways explores cleaner alternatives to conventional diesel traction.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 12:26 pm

Global Market: Eurozone banking crisis fears return as government borrowing costs surge

Rising euro zone borrowing costs have renewed fears of a sovereign debt crisis, particularly in France. European banks stronger capital buffers, diversified bond holdings and tighter regulation offer protection, but prolonged market volatility could increase funding costs, weaken profitability and revive investor concerns over banks exposure to government debt.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 12:18 pm

Bird Group plans to double the business across all verticals by 2030

Bird Group has signed a lease for developing a hotel on 12 acres in Shillong. The hospitality arm aims to increase its keys from 600 to approximately 1,200 by 2030. The group also plans to introduce a new brand that caters to value for money in service. Additionally, ongoing aviation projects and a growing food services business are key areas of focus.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 12:11 pm

Bandhan Small Cap among 5 smallcap mutual funds with over 16% gains in 3 years. Do you own any?

Five smallcap mutual funds delivered over 16% annualised returns over three years, led by Bandhan Small Cap Fund at 21.2%, highlighting performance differences across schemes as investors assess opportunities.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 12:09 pm

Planning to go green? Do solar panels and EV chargers actually slash your utility bills and save you money? Decoded

Solar panels and home EV charging can deliver substantial savings but conditions apply. 

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 11:49 am

Made an error while paying income tax? How to request challan corrections, key deadlines and tax year changes

Made an error while paying income tax? Taxpayers can request online challan corrections for eligible details, including the tax year and tax payment category. Know the key deadlines, the step-by-step process, and how the Income-tax Act, 2025 changes the tax-year framework.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 11:35 am

Beauty firms chase 'Ozempic face' market as weight-loss drugs boom

Galderma, Natura, and L'Oreal are developing treatments for consumers experiencing facial sagging due to rapid weight loss. These companies are responding to increased demand linked to the popularity of GLP-1 obesity drugs. Experts indicate that rapid weight loss may lead to skin laxity and diminished facial volume. While existing treatments show promise, some limitations remain in addressing deeper facial structure issues.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 11:32 am

Dr Reddy's gets DCGI nod for Zytorvi in advanced esophageal cancer

Dr Reddy's Laboratories has received approval for Zytorvi, an immunotherapy targeting advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. This new indication allows treatment for adult patients with a combination of toripalimab, cisplatin, and paclitaxel. Approximately 80 percent of esophageal cancer cases in India are attributed to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The approval derives from positive results in the Phase 3 JUPITER-06 trial.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 11:22 am

SBI probes suspected data breach after 3.75 lakh records surface on dark web

State Bank of India is investigating a suspected data breach involving approximately 3.75 lakh records found online. The bank has engaged cybersecurity experts to assess the extent and risks related to the exposed data. Preliminary analysis has identified nearly 3,900 customer records, which include personally identifiable information. Previously, Central Bank of India experienced a technical glitch affecting its systems but reported no financial losses.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 11:16 am

Netflixs India revenue grows 18% as viewing hours rise 24% in Q3

Netflix reported an 18% year-on-year revenue growth in India during the July-September quarter of 2026. Viewing hours increased by 24%, while paid net additions reached a quarterly record amid successful content offerings. The company noted that its reality series Lock Upp drove unprecedented viewing hours, helping to achieve significant subscriber growth. Globally, Netflix also experienced revenue growth of 11.8% in the same quarter.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 11:13 am

Bajaj Finance shares fall 3% after Q2 results. What Jefferies, Nomura, other brokerages now expect?

Bajaj Finance shares dropped on Wednesday after the NBFC reported a 29% year-on-year rise in Q2FY27 net profit to Rs 6,367 crore. Nomura and Jefferies retained Buy ratings, with Jefferies cutting its target price, while 360 One WAM upgraded the stock to Buy, citing improving risk-reward and strong growth.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 10:47 am

Transrail Lighting shares rally 9% after bagging orders worth Rs 927 crore

Transrail Lighting shares rose nearly 9% after the company secured fresh orders worth Rs 927 crore, taking its financial year order intake to Rs 3,356 crore. However, foreign institutional investors trimmed their stake in the company during the September 2026 quarter.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 10:44 am

Gold, silver prices today, 21 October: Check retail rates of 24K, 22K gold, 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata

Gold and silver prices today, 21 October: Check the latest 24K and 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities. Also, track MCX gold and silver futures, key market movements, and factors influencing precious metal prices.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 9:56 am

After 79 years, Railways reaches this remote town

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:51 am

Box office collections jump 17% as Indian films deliver across genres

Box office collections and audience attendance for Indian films have shown recovery and growth in 2026. Data indicates a 17% increase in cumulative box-office collections compared to the previous year. Films across various budgets and languages have achieved notable success, reflecting changing audience preferences. Regional films have particularly resonated with local audiences before expanding their reach.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:49 am

Tenants arrested for no Indian visa & docs

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:48 am

Gold may hit $5,000 an ounce as central banks, Asian buyers drive demand

Gold prices are predicted to stay elevated between USD 4,200 and USD 5,000 per ounce over the next two years. Central bank purchases and strong demand from Asian markets are driving these prices. While US interest rate movements traditionally influence gold, their impact is diminishing. Increased global gold production is forecasted, but supply limitations may sustain price levels. Geopolitical developments could influence gold's future price trajectory significantly.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:45 am

India's power crunch deepens as 96 coal plants face fuel shortages

India's coal-fired power plants are currently experiencing critical fuel shortages due to rising energy demands. This surge in electricity usage is attributed to unusually hot weather and insufficient hydroelectric output. The Central Electricity Authority has reported a significant increase in the number of plants with low coal stocks. Despite escalating power demands, coal supply has fallen by approximately 5% this month.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:42 am

Indias occupied office stock approaches 1 billion sq ft milestone

Indias occupied office stock across eight markets rose 7% year-on-year to 917.7 million sq ft, nearing the 1-billion-sq-ft mark, according to Knight Frank India. Bengaluru remained the largest market, while Hyderabad recorded the fastest growth among markets exceeding 100 million sq ft. Punes occupied office stock crossed 100 million sq ft.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:33 am

Best arbitrage mutual funds to invest in October 2026

Arbitrage funds are taxed like equity mutual funds. This means they qualify for long term capital gains tax of 12.5% if investments are held for more than a year. If investments are for less than a year, short term capital gains tax of 20% will be applicable.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:22 am

Cement stocks face a cost squeeze; UltraTech, JK Cement and JSW Cement top 3 Motilal Oswal picks; 5 more with upsides

Motilal Oswal expects weak Q2 cement earnings as fuel costs rise and prices stay soft. See its top picks, neutral calls and one Sell.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:08 am

SBI flags dark web exposure of 3,897 customer records; names, mobile numbers, addresses among data leaked

State Bank of India has flagged the suspected exposure of 3,897 customer records containing personally identifiable information on the dark web. The data reportedly includes names, mobile numbers, dates of birth and residential addresses. SBI has initiated incident response measures and engaged an independent cybersecurity agency to investigate the alleged compromise.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 9:08 am

SIFs vs mutual funds performance in 2026: Equity and hybrid scheme returns, risks compared what investors need to know

SIFs offer long-short strategies that traditional mutual funds generally cannot. A study compares their downside protection, market recovery, and year-to-date returns, with equity long-short SIFs down 1.8% versus 6.9% for large-cap funds. Here's what investors need to know. 

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 9:00 am

RIL Share Price Live Updates: RIL's Market Activity Today

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 8:11 am

Finance Ministry exempts interest on NDB's Maharaja Bonds from TDS: What changes for resident investors and FIIs?

The Ministry of Finance has exempted interest payments on the New Development Banks Maharaja INR Bonds from TDS for eligible resident investors and foreign institutional investors from the tax year 2026-27.

Livemint 21 Oct 2026 7:50 am

Vijaya Dasami/Durga Puja bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed in your state today (October 21, 2026)? Check RBI list

Bank holiday today: Bank branches will be closed on October 21, 2026, in several Indian states for Vijaya Dasami festivals. Customers are advised to check the Reserve Bank of India's holiday list before their visits. Digital banking services such as mobile banking and UPI will remain available on this holiday.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 7:00 am

Wife evicted from mother-in-laws house over matrimonial disputes with husband; why HC upheld the order

The Delhi High Court just ruled that matromonial fights can really upset elderly parents and so on this ground the court ordered a wife to move out of her mother-in-law's house. Since the wife has her own home and job, the court felt she could handle it, and they highlighted the eviction rules under the Senior Citizens Act.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 7:00 am

Diwali sweet sellers face heat over shelf life

New Delhi: How long will a peda stay fresh? For India's mithai makers, the question is becoming a business concern ahead of Diwali as tighter food safety rules in several states require the display of manufacturing and use-by dates even on loose sweets.Watchdog agencies in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand are among those that have made this mandatory. The directive aims to help consumers assess freshness as inspections have revealed that buyers were not always given clear information about when sweets were made or how long they remained suitable for consumption, the agencies said.Also Read: FSSAI issues notice to Zepto over alleged delivery of expired besanHowever, small and medium-sized manufacturers and sellers said that the frequent inspections and notices have made it difficult for them to operate during the festive season, when sales are at their highest. Determining shelf life for different varieties could mean hiring external agencies, adding to costs and workload during the industry's busiest season, said Firoz H Naqvi, president of the Federation of Sweets and Namkeen Manufacturers.135076403Eye on AdulterationProducts on shelves are replenished many times a day during the busy season, said Naqvi.The Uttar Pradesh Mithai Namkeen Bakery Association recently urged the state food safety department to adopt a what it described as a supportive approach during the festive season, allowing small and medium-sized traditional businesses adequate time, training and technical guidance to formalise such practices.Also Read: Nepal bans import, sales of Indian biscuit Priyagold over food safety violationsFor minor documentation, display, record-keeping or other correctable deficiencies, businesses may kindly be guided and given a reasonable opportunity to rectify them, instead of facing immediate disruption of production or disproportionate action, the grouping wrote to the Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) on October 11.Other states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka and Haryana have also stepped up vigilance against adulteration during festivals and other large gatherings, when demand for sweets, edible oils, dairy products and other food items typically rises.Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has been on a food safety, hygiene and anti-adulteration crusade that has led to widespread action with inspections of restaurants, hotels, cloud kitchens, dairies, quick-commerce dark stores and manufacturing units.The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has asked states to increase surveillance to prevent the sale of adulterated and counterfeit food items during the festive season. It has also intensified scrutiny of packaged food products, issuing notices to major companies over alleged misleading health and nutritional claims, labelling discrepancies and non-compliance with food regulations.This comes as prices of key ingredients - milk and other dairy products, dry fruits, sugar, gram flour (besan) - have risen to records this year.Impact on marginsThe rising prices of inputs including fuel has had a cascading effect on the end product and will squeeze manufacturers' margins, said Suresh Goel, chief executive officer, Bikanervala Foods.Inspections happen during all festival seasons and so good and hygienic practices have become a part of our processing and packaging systems, he said. Since the Covid pandemic, the industry has aligned itself with health trends with even unorganised players making efforts to adopt best practices, he said.

The Economic Times 21 Oct 2026 6:00 am