The Economic Times

ICICI Bank Q2 Results: Private lender ICICI Bank reported a net profit of Rs 14,843 crore in the second quarter of financial year 2027, marking 20.1% year-on-year increase from Rs 12,359 crore posted in the same period last year.

IDBI Bank reported a 39% year-on-year profit decline to Rs 2,205 crore in Q2 FY27, impacted by a one-off gain in the previous year. Excluding this, profit rose 14%. Asset quality improved, deposits grew 17%, advances increased 18%, and net interest margins strengthened sequentially to 4.11%.

Indian equity markets rebounded 2.78%, with the Nifty reclaiming its crucial 200-week moving average. However, weak momentum indicators and overhead resistance warrant caution. Banking, metal, media, pharma and IT stocks show relative strength. Investors should monitor key support levels, prioritise fundamentally strong stocks and maintain disciplined risk management strategies.

DLF Ltd focuses on generating strong pre-sales of luxury homes and increasing rental income from commercial properties. The company expects significant revenue growth as housing projects launched post-COVID complete over the coming years. DLF's recent performance reflects brand strength and disciplined execution, despite a decline in sales bookings. The company has achieved a positive net cash position, even after significant dividend outflows.

Nana Patekar passed away at 75. His estranged wife Neelkanthi Patekar attended the funeral and it sparked a discussion online. Their son Malhar Patekar broke the silence and recently opened up about their strong emotional bond despite living separately for decades.

Russia has hailed US President Donald Trump's decision to waive new sanctions targeting its energy revenues as a historic move, raising concerns among Ukraine and its European allies that Washington is favouring Moscow.

With a fresh sanctions waiver from the US, India is poised to sustain its current levels of Russian crude imports, having now surpassed China as the leading importer. The country's strategic embrace of discounted Russian oil has transformed its energy cost framework and prompted a rethink of crude sourcing tactics. Analysts anticipate that this trend will have lasting effects on India's import profile and overall economic dynamics.

Despite a nearly 4% decline in the Nifty 50 over three months, several Nifty Smallcap 250 stocks have rallied sharply. Cupid led with 66% gains, followed by Sterlite Technologies and Welspun Corp, highlighting pockets of resilience amid market volatility.

HDFC Bank Q2 Results: Indias largest private lender HDFC Bank on Saturday reported a net profit of Rs 19,509 crore for the second quarter of FY27, marking a 4.6% year-on-year jump from Rs 18,641 crore posted in the same period last year.

Despite a decline in crypto trading activities, there is a rising interest in traditional assets among investors. Open interest in real-world asset contracts has increased to $9 billion, claiming 14% of total volume. The transition marks a significant change in the derivatives markets as crypto inroads are being utilized for traditional trading. This shift indicates a maturation of the digital asset space, making it more accessible to mainstream investors.

Delhi Lok Adalat news: Delhi Traffic Police will now hold Lok Adalat hearings on October 25, 2026, after previous deferment. Motorists can download challan slips starting October 19, 2026, with a daily limit of 50,000. The Lok Adalat will be organized in various district court complexes across Delhi. National Lok Adalat will also take place on October 19, 2026, at different legal venues. This initiative aims to offer a faster resolution to traffic-related disputes.

Karnatakas provisional electoral rolls show 2.28 crore women against 2.25 crore men, a lead of nearly 3.7 lakh that breaks the pattern in available historical data. Women outnumber men in 25 of 34 districts, while officials work to clear pending hearings and applications before the final roll is published on October 27.

ABVP has claimed victories in eight out of 13 state universities during student elections held in Odisha. The opposition BJD-affiliated BCJD stated its candidates won approximately 55 to 60 percent of the seats. The NSUI reported that it secured president posts in 30 colleges while finishing second in an additional 80 institutes. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed that the results indicate Gen Z's faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In the beginning it was 500%, then it came down to 100% and then, a waiver. This is how the tariff threat has evolved from an ambitious proposal into a more flexible instrument of policy for Trump and US. For India, the immediate danger has receded. But with US retaining the power to reinstate the measures, the waiver offers relief rather than a lasting resolution.

Axis Bank Q2 Results: Private lender Axis Bank on Saturday reported a net profit of Rs 7,003 crore for the second quarter of FY27, marking a jump of 38% from Rs 5,089 crore posted in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

Mohammed Shami has been left out of the Indian squad for the upcoming ODI and Test series against New Zealand. Despite strong domestic performances, he has not made the cut for the national team. Akash Deep has earned a spot in the Test squad after recovering from a lower-back injury. The Indian team will see a leadership change during the ODI series, with Shubman Gill as captain initially.

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Mahela Jayawardene has resigned from his position as head coach of Mumbai Indians after ten years. He led the team to three IPL titles and served in various roles since 2017. Jayawardene expressed gratitude towards Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their support throughout his journey. Under his leadership, Mumbai Indians Women's team, MI New York, and MI Emirates achieved success as well.

Anirudh Ravichander has worked on four films with his uncle, superstar Rajinikanth: Petta, Darbar, Jailer and Jailer 2. Speaking to Film Companion, the composer revealed how they keep their family bond separate from professional commitments, saying they have to do their job right regardless of who is involved. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad co-owner Kavya Maran and Anirudh are reportedly preparing for their wedding reception in Chennai on November 21.

PL Capital remains cautious after the Niftys eight-week losing streak, warning against expectations of a V-shaped recovery. Despite market uncertainty, the brokerage favours eight small and midcap stocks, including CESC, Amber Enterprises and Healthcare Global, citing potential upside of 13-50%.

Indias rising temperatures and growing AC adoption: The country's AC market is predicted to grow significantly in the coming years due to rising temperatures and urbanization. A recent survey indicates that air conditioners are an essential part of household electricity consumption. Many consumers are prioritizing energy efficiency when purchasing air conditioning units to reduce their electricity bills. Companies are responding by introducing advanced technology and enhancing energy-saving feat

Nicholas Sleeps investment philosophy emphasises independent thinking, patience, and understanding business fundamentals. His successful Nomad Investment Partnership demonstrated the value of identifying high-quality businesses, assessing sustainable competitive advantages, and focusing on long-term value rather than daily price movements. He advocated disciplined research, selective diversification, emotional control, continuous learning, and adapting decisions when circumstances change.

Akhilesh Yadav has posed twelve significant questions to the Centre about the current state of the banking sector. His concerns highlight issues like bank privatisation, high fees, and the challenges faced by customers. He queries the closure of rural branches and the accessibility of loans for young borrowers and small traders. Yadav also addresses cyber fraud, loan interest rates, and the pressure on bank employees affecting customer service.

MEA underscores energy market stability while restating Indias stand on US-Russia diesel deal

A Delhi court on Saturday issued bailable warrants against YouTuber Dhruv Rathee in a defamation case dating back to 2018. The order marks a development in the long-running legal proceedings involving the content creator. Details of the court's directions and the next steps in the case remain to be established.

The prohibitory orders, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, banned mass gatherings in Connaught Place and adjoining areas.

Over the five trading sessions ended October 16, the Sensex gained 3.11%, or 2,257 points, to close at 74,729. The benchmark index closed higher in three of the five sessions between October 12 and 16. Amid the broader market rally, around 22 BSE 500 stocks advanced in each of the five consecutive trading sessions. Of these, we identified 15 stocks that gained consistently throughout the period, delivering cumulative returns ranging from 5% to 25%. (Data Source: ACE Equity)

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Brent crude surpassed $110 per barrel as escalating attacks around the Strait of Hormuz and renewed Russia-Ukraine hostilities heightened global supply concerns. WTI also surged, recording weekly gains above 10%. Goldman Sachs warned prices could reach $120 if shipping disruptions worsen, while easing tensions could bring crude towards $80.

Gold rate today: On October 17, 2026, a rise in gold prices marked a significant shift for leading jewellery retailers, including Tanishq and Malabar Gold.

Anirudh Ravichander was just 19 when Why This Kolaveri Di became a global sensation. The song from Dhanush and Shruti Haasans film 3 was originally planned for a CD release but landed on YouTube after a rough version leaked. Anirudh recalled that Amitabh Bachchans tweet helped propel it further, with views rising from 3 lakh to 3 million the following day.

The Kerala government has appointed M C Mayin Haji as the new chairman of the State Waqf Board, dissolving the previous board less than seven months after its formation. The reconstitution comes amid ongoing legal challenges and protests against the Centre's amendments to the Waqf law, while also highlighting a lack of representation for the A P Sunni faction.

Abakkus Mutual Funds Sanjay Doshi sees opportunities across market capitalisations, despite elevated mid- and smallcap valuations. He urges investors to prioritise sustainable earnings, cash flows and returns on capital, maintain disciplined stock selection and align SIP allocations with long-term goals.

Nuvama Wealth Managements Rahul Jain says alternative investments can diversify portfolios through private markets, AIFs, private credit, REITs and InvITs. He recommends evaluating risk before returns and taxes, while considering global equities and liquidity constraints when determining portfolio allocations.

MK Stalin criticized the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party after a functionary was arrested for methamphetamine possession. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence seized 100 kg of the drug intended for smuggling to Sri Lanka. Stalin called for a thorough investigation and questioned the presence of a drug network within the party. He suggested that TVK should focus on identifying drug-related elements rather than targeting other political groups.

The Indian government has approved the continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme with significant financial outlay. Changes will be made to pension schemes, including eligibility criteria and assistance rates. The eligibility for disability pension will now depend on 40% disability against the previous 80%. This initiative aims to benefit 3.20 crore individuals across all states and Union Territories.

GTRI has warned that Donald Trumps waiver of threatened 100% tariffs on Russian oil buyers offers India only temporary relief, as Washington can reinstate the duties at any time. The think tank cited US purchases of Russian diesel, tariff protection for China and ongoing India-US trade talks as possible reasons for the move. It also urged New Delhi to protect its energy security and avoid permanent trade concessions in exchange for reversible tariff relief.

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Jude Law is set to portray Liverpool FC legend Bill Shankly in an upcoming series written by Adolescence creator Jack Thorne. Backed by A24 and Box To Box Films, the drama will explore how Shankly transformed Liverpool from a struggling Second Division side into a major force in football. It will cover his training methods, key signings, trophies and lasting legacy, alongside Laws celebrated acting career.

Rule 114 helps investors estimate how long mutual fund investments may take to triple based on expected annual returns. Dividing 114 by the return rate gives the approximate timeframe, supporting long-term financial planning. However, the formula provides only an estimate, as mutual fund returns fluctuate and are never guaranteed.

Mrs. Khanwani, a Dubai resident, faced tax notices for unexplained money linked to her FCNR deposits. The ITAT Jaipur ruled in her favor, highlighting the funds' clear origin from bank records. The Income Tax Department could not dispute the source of funds provided by her husband, Mr. Chand.

These top five midcap stocks witnessed the highest net selling by mutual funds in September. Here is a detailed breakup, according to a report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services.

The risks of artificial intelligence may exceed its opportunities if no adequate safeguards and ethical framework are put in place, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Friday, backing a blend of industry self-regulation and input from key governments.

Kavya Maran, CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad, is reportedly set to marry music composer Anirudh Ravichander. The Sun TV heiress studied at Stella Maris College in Chennai before completing an MBA at Warwick Business School in the UK. Her father, Kalanithi Maran, has an estimated fortune of $2.6 billion, according to Forbes.