The Economic Times

Taiwan has been waiting months for US President Donald Trump to approve a $14 billion sale of weapons and equipment, which the island democracy would use to fend off a potential Chinese attack. - Taiwan is developing a multi-layered air defence system, known as the T-Dome, that it hopes could counter a potential Chinese attack.

Israeli forces detained U.S. Congressional candidate Brad Lander while he assisted Palestinian farmers with their olive harvest. The military stated the harvest lacked proper coordination, viewing it as a security risk. Lander expressed concern over the detentions and emphasized the right to harvest olives. Several other volunteers, including American rabbis, were also detained during the incident. The situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding Palestinian land access and Israeli military con

India vs New Zealand 1st T20I Playing 11 Prediction: Check India and New Zealand's predicted playing XIs, with Shreyas Iyer leading India and Sanju Samson expected to open. Read the latest team news, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi update and Hagley Oval pitch report ahead of the Christchurch T20I.

The Indian Air Force held an Industry Outreach Program at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. This event aimed to engage with various stakeholders regarding unmanned and autonomous systems. Air Marshal Premkumar K chaired the program, which included around 100 representatives from drone companies. The IAF presented its operational requirements and shared the 'IAF Roadmap booklet' with participants.

On Wednesday, the Trump administration dropped its legal appeals against the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programme. This decision came after federal judges ruled in favor of advocates in June. The programme aims to forgive loans for public service employees after a decade of payments. The changes proposed by the Education Department faced significant legal challenges and were deemed unlawful.

A Kuwait-flagged oil tanker named M/T Al Dasma was hit by a projectile while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. All 21 Indian seafarers aboard the vessel are reported safe following the incident. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the safety of the crew via a post on X. The UK Maritime Trade Operations tracked the strike and noted its location west of Bukha in Oman.

Tamil Nadu is likely to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall until October 25, with heavy showers forecast on October 26. Check the latest school holiday updates for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Ranipet amid the continuing rain alert and thunderstorms.

One individual died and eight were injured in an attack at King Fahd International Airport. The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the incident, which caused material damage at the airport. Following the attack, some flights were diverted away from the location for safety. The Iranian-backed Houthis have previously targeted Saudi airports amid rising tensions in the region. U.S.

Gold prices saw a decline as investors shift attention to the looming Federal Reserve policy meeting regarding interest rates. Spot gold prices dipped to $4,115.50 per ounce, with US gold futures for December slipping to $4,132.30. Analysts anticipate potential rate hikes in the coming months, particularly in December, where the likelihood stands at 90%. Other precious metals like silver and platinum also noted price drops.

Donald Trump suggested renaming the Strait of Hormuz and both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. He recounted how officials initially dismissed a previous naming proposal for the Gulf of Mexico. After some discussion, they recognized its long-standing name and history. Trump justified his ideas by emphasizing the United States' significant coastline share. He humorously speculated about Arab countries' reactions to renaming the Strait of Hormuz.

Rajinikanth's latest movie, Jailer 2, is dominating the box office with global earnings swiftly heading to Rs 600 crore. The film has outdone the lifetime box office of Hanuman Ansh and is on track to join the ranks of major blockbusters. Its domestic net collection has hit Rs 317.20 crore in just one week since its release, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. Read on!

Speaking to reporters before departing the White House for South Carolina, Trump highlighted the delicate state of peace discussions, arguing that imposing additional economic penalties could derail diplomatic momentum.

Reserve Bank of India has significantly reduced banking system liquidity from a peak surplus in a short time. Liquidity surged after banks received funds from overseas Indians under the FCNR(B) scheme. The central bank utilized reverse repo auctions and cash reserve ratio adjustments to absorb this surplus effectively. As overnight rates increased following these liquidity measures, RBI temporarily infused funds to manage sharp rate rises.

Missiles struck Kyiv early Thursday, following a previous evening air strike that injured six people. In Lipetsk, a drone attack resulted in damage to apartment buildings and a medical facility. US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff recently engaged in talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and President Vladimir Putin. These discussions aim to mediate an end to the ongoing conflict initiated by Russia's invasion in 2022.

Contracts for the Nasdaq 100 Index slipped 0.6% and those for the S&P 500 dropped 0.4% in early Asian trading following a split set of results from Tesla Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc. The automakers shares fell 3.1% in post-market trading after cutting its capital-spending forecast. Meta Platforms, however, rose 2% after hours as the company boosted its bet on AI with spending outlook.

Morning Brief Podcast: AI Agents Breach Indian Firms. Who Is Accountable?

US President Donald Trump emphasized that his administration successfully prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He stated Iran would already have used nuclear weapons if actions had not been taken. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi argued that the US abandoned the nuclear agreement without justification while opposing Iranian ideology. Despite tensions, he noted Iran's military readiness deters potential US aggression.

US stocks ended higher on Wednesday as SpaceX and Super Micro Computer boosted sentiment around artificial intelligence stocks. The Nasdaq led gains, while strong semiconductor stocks added support. However, weakness in Netflix, AT&T and other communications shares limited the broader advance as investors awaited more major technology earnings.

Meta raised its 2026 capital expenditure forecast to $135 billion-$145 billion to accelerate AI expansion and announced plans for non-voting shares, while reporting stronger revenue amid mounting legal challenges and intensifying competition.

BlackRock has launched a new robotics focused ETF as investors become more selective about AI investments. The fund targets companies using intelligent machines across industries such as manufacturing and transportation, adding to a rapidly expanding market of ETFs built around different parts of the AI theme.

India is set to implement a requirement for exporters to report emissions data across their entire value chains. This initiative presents challenges, especially for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which struggle to track emissions. Large companies are expected to take the lead in this process, developing systems for reporting. Collaboration among stakeholders, including government and industry, is crucial for supporting MSMEs and ensuring compliance.

The air show, organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), will showcase its operational capabilities, technological strength and aerial combat skills. Aircraft such as Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, Mirage 2000, Jaguar and indigenous light combat aircraft are expected to participate.

The Supreme Court has stayed the investigation into corruption FIRs against Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena T, and PA Mohammed Riyas. They are allowed to challenge a Kerala High Court order that prompted the registration of these FIRs. The court clarified that its observations do not reflect any opinion on the merits of the cases. It also expressed concern regarding the urgency with which the matter was taken to the high court.

Union home minister Amit Shah confirmed that peace has been established in Kashmir, the Northeast, and Naxal-affected areas. He highlighted the recent West Bengal elections where security personnel prevented any electoral violence. Shah set a target for India to become drugs-free by December 31, 2029. He also noted the sacrifices of martyred security personnel in the fight against Naxalism.

Two New York women, Judith Jones and Carolyn Kenyon, raised $12,500 in four months to help erase $1.5 million in medical debt for 1,284 strangers. Their fundraising campaign supported R.I.P. Medical Debt, a nonprofit that buys overdue medical bills at heavily discounted prices and cancels them. The initiative also highlighted how medical expenses can create long-term financial problems.

US Treasury yields slipped as investors weighed the impact of higher borrowing costs on AI stocks, with the 10 year yield heading for a second straight daily decline. The move came ahead of a $13 billion 20 year Treasury auction, while markets continued to price in a muted chance of a Fed rate hike.

The Pentagon has authorized a temporary transfer of the Active Denial System to the Department of Homeland Security. This technology, known as a heat ray, is designed to disperse crowds without physical contact. Officials have yet to determine the specific testing locations or methods for its use. Previous military assessments have shown limited application in combat or crowd control situations.

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.

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).

Weather tomorrow, October 22: The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, and Kerala and Mahe on October 22. Heavy rain is also likely in parts of Andhra Pradesh and Lakshadweep, while Karnataka and other regions may experience rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds. Check the state-wise weather forecast, rainfall alerts and warnings for tomorrow.

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.

Celebrity-endorsed television ad volumes saw a 17% decline from last year in January to September. Shah Rukh Khan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni stood out as the most visible celebrity endorsers. Film actors accounted for 65% of endorsed ads, while sports personalities increased their share from 19% to 28%. Food and beverages led in advertising volume, with toilet and floor cleaners attracting the most attention.

Los Angeles and Southern California are bracing for a major storm from Wednesday to Thursday, with the National Weather Service warning of potential flooding from heavy rains expected to reach three inches. Coastal regions are also under tornado threat, increasing the need for caution. Communities recovering from wildfires should prepare for possible mud and debris flows.

Indian Railways links Chhattisgarhs Rowghat to national network for first time since independence

Vladimir Putin has agreed to resume negotiations with Washington and Kyiv regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The trilateral talks will focus on establishing a post-war security system for both countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists on a leaders' summit to address ongoing hostilities. Recent discussions have yielded minimal progress amid continued military confrontations in Ukraine. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff noted a slight momentum in peace efforts following multiple high-level

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory to private television channels regarding compliance with the Programme Code. Channels are urged to exercise caution in their use of artificial intelligence for news content production. Strict adherence to statutory provisions is emphasized following observed violations by various channels in past broadcasts. Additionally, the ministry reiterated prohibitions on inappropriate content and live coverage of anti-terrorist operations

Water supply will be reduced in several areas of Lutyens' Delhi until November 8 due to maintenance. The Upper Ganga Canal will be closed for repairs, affecting the Sonia Vihar Water Treatment Plant. During this time, residents will receive water from the Yamuna, leading to potential changes in taste. Areas impacted include Bharti Nagar, Golf Links, and Lodhi Estate among others.

RBI's monetary policy committee has increased the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points due to inflation concerns. Core inflation has shown an upward trajectory, indicating a normalization from earlier benign levels. Various members expressed views on external supply shocks impacting inflation expectations and the need for timely policy adjustments. The differing opinions highlight the complexities of achieving growth while managing inflation effectively.

Netflix shares fell after the streaming giant reported its slowest sales growth in three years and forecast another quarter of slowing revenue growth. Its fourth quarter sales outlook missed analysts expectations, while weaker than expected advertising revenue added to concerns. The stock had already declined 30% this year, underperforming the S&P 500.

New Delhi: Despite heavy demand, Indian Railways continues to take its passengers safely, comfortably and with consistent and increased punctuality. This is being done through improved monitoring, timetable rationalisation, better maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.The railways said that it has improved from 69.2% in 2018-19 to 77.43 in 2025-26 & 77.11% in 2026-27 (till now) if punctuality data are taken into consideration. It said that consistent performance on more than 77 per cent punctu

School holiday tomorrow, October 22, 2026: Schools across India may follow different reopening schedules as Dussehra and Durga Puja vacations continue in some states. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand schools are expected to reopen on October 22, while Telangana schools may reopen on October 23. Schools in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal may remain closed for longer. Parents should check official school notices for confirmation.

In the gripping season finale of Slow Horses, the Slough House crew confronts perilous situations that lead to devastating consequences. River Cartwright suffers an alarming collapse due to apparent poisoning, casting doubt on his survival as the episode draws to a close. Jackson Lamb crafts a clever scheme to redirect blame from a risky operation, determined to shield his colleagues.

The Delhi Metro will run 20 additional weekday train trips from October 22 after GRAP-I was implemented across Delhi-NCR to tackle worsening air pollution. The DMRC will also intensify dust-control drives at construction sites, inspect nearby roads and strengthen existing pollution-control measures. Delhi's AQI stood at 246 in the poor category, with forecasts indicating that air quality could remain poor in the days ahead.