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The Economic Times

Business / The Economic Times

Feds Barkin says rate hike an open question; Hammack backs increase on inflation concerns

Richmond Fed President Tom Barkin views further rate hikes as an open question. Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack advocates for an immediate interest rate increase as she believes current business borrowing pressures add to inflationary pressures.

13 Aug 2026 11:45 pm
Poland says it thwarted a Russian plot to kill an American citizen in Warsaw

Poland has thwarted a Russian plot to assassinate a Ukrainian American citizen in Warsaw. This incident marks the first time Moscow has been accused of targeting a U.S. citizen on NATO soil. Polish authorities detained a suspect allegedly recruited by Russian secret services on August seventh. The operation was conducted in cooperation with American intelligence services, which have warned of increased Russian activity.

13 Aug 2026 11:28 pm
In 1818, British prisons adopted William Cubitt's treadmill as a tool of hard labor. 208 years later, the machine is a fitness staple, but its modern medical and exercise history evolved separately from the original punishment device

The treadmill has an unsettling place in the history of exercise: its story includes Victorian prisons, forced labor, physiological research and modern cardiac medicine. In the early 19th century, engineer William Cubitt adapted an older treadwheel into a machine that required prisoners to climb continuously, sometimes generating useful power and sometimes simply increasing exhaustion.

13 Aug 2026 11:23 pm
US power outages are rising, but homeowners may not need a huge generator to keep the AC, refrigerator and essentials running

As power outages become a growing concern across the US, homeowners are looking for reliable ways to keep essential appliances running during blackouts. A massive generator may not always be necessary. By focusing on essentials such as air conditioning, refrigerators, lights and phones, households can choose a smaller and potentially more affordable backup power solution.

13 Aug 2026 11:17 pm
Instagram refreshes its wordmark, nearly a decade after last redesign

Instagram has updated its wordmark, replacing the decade-old text-based logo. The new design features a sharper and more modern typeface with flowing, curved forms. This visual change has elicited mixed reactions from users across social media platforms. The refresh focuses solely on the wordmark, not the app's iconic gradient icon. Instagram's last major visual overhaul occurred nearly ten years ago in 2016.

13 Aug 2026 11:16 pm
In 1935, this dam submerged entire US town under 60 feet of water; nearly 90 years later, falling lake levels are bringing the 'ghost town' back to life

Hoover Dam Construction: St. Thomas, a historic Nevada town, has reemerged as Lake Mead's water levels decline. The former Mormon settlement was submerged for decades after Hoover Dam's construction. Its streets and building foundations are now visible, offering a glimpse into the past. This reappearance highlights the dramatic changes in the reservoir's water levels. The drought affecting Lake Mead has wider consequences for the region's water supply.

13 Aug 2026 11:06 pm
Can giraffes do math? The worlds tallest mammals are better at addition than subtraction, scientists discover in surprising math study

New research reveals giraffes possess remarkable cognitive abilities. Some giraffes can mentally combine quantities, a foundational numerical thinking skill. This ability allows them to identify containers with more food after hidden transfers. Two giraffes consistently succeeded in these carrot-based experiments. These findings suggest a deeper understanding of animal intelligence and cognition.

13 Aug 2026 10:57 pm
India urea import offers decline 12% as war supply squeeze eases

India's urea import offers dropped significantly, signaling market easing after war-driven tightness. Offers for the soil nutrient were twelve percent below June's purchase price. State-run producers received bids for millions of tons against tender requirements. Prices have crashed to less than half of earlier war-driven levels. Vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has held below normal.

13 Aug 2026 10:51 pm
IndiGo launches new flight services from Vijayawada to Varanasi and Kolkata

In an exciting development, Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu unveiled new IndiGo flight services that link Vijayawada with Varanasi and Kolkata. The flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, generating considerable enthusiasm among passengers. Local MP Vallabhaneni Balashowry expressed interest in having direct international flights to Dubai and a connection to Kochi, as the Ministry of Civil Aviation aims to enhance Vijayawada's transport options.

13 Aug 2026 10:50 pm
Several homes catch fire in central England, Sky News footage shows

Firefighters battled a large grass fire near a golf course in Stourbridge. Several homes were on fire as the blaze spread close to properties. Around sixty firefighters worked to control the significant incident on Thursday. Aerial footage showed at least three houses engulfed in flames. There was no immediate information regarding injuries or the full extent of damage.

13 Aug 2026 10:50 pm
Cars were once a New Terror of Locomotion in America, and almost anyone could drive one. Then Drivers Licenses arrived, but tests were still not required

In the early days of automobiles, there were virtually no regulations governing their use, prompting the eventual requirement for driver's licenses. Massachusetts and Missouri took the lead in 1903, mandating licenses without any testing. Over time, these licenses transformed into secure IDs featuring photographs and intricate security elements. Today, digital licenses are available, with some states even offering online testing.

13 Aug 2026 10:50 pm
Life Lesson of the Day: Even a hut feels like paradise when youre with your loved one Russian proverb offers a timeless reminder about love, happiness and finding joy in lifes simplest moments

Life Lesson of the Day: The Life Lesson of the Day comes from the Russian proverb Even a hut feels like paradise when youre with your loved one, offering a timeless reminder that true happiness is not always found in wealth, luxury or material comforts. The saying celebrates love, companionship and the simple moments that can make an ordinary life feel extraordinary.

13 Aug 2026 10:48 pm
10 Baby Names Inspired By Ancient Greek Words That Have Beautiful Meanings

10 Baby Names Inspired By Ancient Greek Words That Have Beautiful Meanings

13 Aug 2026 10:47 pm
'Consequences will get higher': Air India CEO Campbell Wilson tells staff amid crackdown on rule violations

Air India chief Campbell Wilson urged staff to do the right thing even when unobserved. He highlighted instances of employee travel privilege misuse and other violations since privatization. Around one thousand employees have been terminated for various rule breaches since January 2022. Systems and controls are being tightened to prevent and address abuse within the airline. Wilson will depart next month after leading the company through these changes.

13 Aug 2026 10:46 pm
Quote of the Day by Robert Pattinson: When you love someone, you want that person to know Inspiring lessons on appreciation, caring, trust, communication and why you should make the people you love feel valued by the actor known for his powerful performances and deep insights on relationships and human nature

Quote of the Day by Robert Pattinson: Robert Pattinsons quote, When you love someone, you want that person to know that shes your everything, explores the importance of love, emotional devotion, appreciation, and expressing deep feelings in relationships. The quote suggests that when someone truly loves another person, they want their partner to understand how deeply valued and important they are, rather than leaving those feelings unspoken or uncertain.

13 Aug 2026 10:41 pm
Not every decision will be right but: Blanches bold message in first speech as attorney general

Not every decision will be right but: Blanches bold message in first speech as attorney general

13 Aug 2026 10:38 pm
Svalbard polar bear woken by foghorn, triggering fine worth thousands of dollars for wildlife disturbance

A visitor in Svalbard received a substantial fine for using a foghorn to wake a polar bear. This action unnecessarily disturbed protected wildlife in the fragile Arctic environment. Polar bears have been protected species in Svalbard since 1972, with strict rules in place. Regulations prohibit unnecessary disturbance, attraction, or pursuit of these animals. The fine serves as a reminder of the consequences for interfering with Arctic wildlife.

13 Aug 2026 10:36 pm
In 2009, Monterey Bay scientists used live underwater footage to expose a surprising secret of a deep-sea fish. 13 years later, their ROVs had logged 5,600 dives, helping reveal why the ocean's strangest creatures can look radically different after collection

Deep Pacific creatures exhibit unique survival strategies in perpetual darkness. Some animals produce their own light, while others possess transparent bodies. Live observations revealed barreleye fish's transparent head and rotating eyes. Preserved specimens often provide an incomplete and altered view of these animals. Thousands of dives continue to uncover the ocean's vast and mysterious undiscovered species.

13 Aug 2026 10:31 pm
Quote of the day by Sofa Vergara: Never take 'no' personally. Sometimes people tell you 'no' for a... Inspiring life lessons on resilience, confidence, courage, perseverance, self-belief and emotional strength, and why rejection should never stop you from moving forward by the Colombian-American actress known for her remarkable rise to fame

Quote of the day by Sofa Vergara: Sofa Vergaras quote, Never take no personally. Sometimes people tell you no for a reason that has nothing to do with you. You must keep going, offer a timeless lesson about resilience, confidence and emotional strength. It is a lesson in self-belief. The Colombian-American actress knows what it means to keep moving forward. Her remarkable journey proves that one rejection should never stop you from chasing your goals, dreams, and success.

13 Aug 2026 10:30 pm
Feisty Parsi woman unfurled first version of Tiranga in Germany in 1907, spent 35 years in exile, sold her jewellery and funded freedom fighters

Independence Day 2026: In 1907, Madame Bhikaji Cama proudly displayed an Indian national flag in Germany, marking a pivotal moment in the fight for India's independence. She passionately championed the cause on foreign soil, dedicating years of her life to the freedom movement from Europe. Through her significant personal wealth, she financed revolutionary efforts and legal support. After a long exile of thirty-five years, Cama returned to India, where she ultimately passed away.

13 Aug 2026 10:28 pm
Britain and France swelter again as western Europe is hit by another heat wave

Britain recorded its hottest day of the year with temperatures reaching 38.1 degrees Celsius. Western Europe is experiencing its fifth heatwave of an exceptional summer season. Both Britain and France are ill-equipped to handle these extreme heat levels. Widespread drought conditions are spreading, shriveling crops and draining rivers. Authorities remain on high alert for wildfires as land remains parched.

13 Aug 2026 10:28 pm
FPIs emerge as biggest sellers among anchor investors in IPOs' 30-day window: Sebi study

Foreign portfolio investors led anchor investor selling in IPOs. Heavy anchor exits around the 30-day unlock window pressured stock prices. Smaller IPOs experienced higher anchor investor exits and selling intensity. Anchor investors continued selling beyond prescribed lock-in periods significantly.

13 Aug 2026 10:26 pm
Ukraine offers Russia truce in Black Sea as food supply fears mount, source says

Ukraine has proposed a halt to attacks on civilian targets in the Black Sea. This offer was transmitted via a third party, and Ukraine awaits a response. Both nations are major agricultural exporters and accuse each other of intensified targeting. Ukrainian grain exports have significantly decreased due to Russian port blockades. The agricultural sector warns of severe economic consequences if the situation persists.

13 Aug 2026 10:25 pm
Quote of the day by Socrates: 'If you wish to be loved, you must first make yourself worthy of that love...' - A life lesson on how to find true love that stays forever from the ancient philosopher

Socrates' quote of the day, If you wish to be loved, you must first show yourself worthy of love by performing deeds of true goodness, offers a simple lesson about love, kindness and character. The ancient Greek philosopher suggests that people should not only expect affection and respect from others but also show through their actions that they are worthy of it. The quote also reflects Socrates' wider interest in virtue, morality and the question of how a person should live a good life.

13 Aug 2026 10:20 pm
The hidden owl war: An invasive owl is conquering ancient forests, putting the threatened northern spotted owl at even greater risk

Invasive barred owls are occupying ancient forests vital for northern spotted owls. These aggressive competitors concentrate in the exact habitats the native species needs. Barred owls occupy significantly larger territories, influencing extensive forest areas. Removing invasive owls has reopened crucial nesting and roosting habitats for spotted owls. Long-term recovery requires protecting forests and managing invasive barred owl populations.

13 Aug 2026 10:20 pm
Going around with Constitution's copy in hand but did not allow House to function: FM Nirmala Sitharaman slams opposition

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman faced off against the opposition, decrying their disruptions in Parliament. She emphasized that those who uphold the Constitution should respect the Houses operations. Home Minister Amit Shah promised in-depth answers during forthcoming discussions. Meanwhile, the Tiranga Yatra initiative is drawing impressive crowds. Although 12 Bills were passed in the Monsoon Session, the debates were notably curtailed due to ongoing protests.

13 Aug 2026 10:19 pm
Scientists uncover an impossible giant 'Red Dot' in deep spaceand what's inside is terrifying

Astronomers found an unusual object, MoM-BH*-1, in the early cosmos. This object is believed to be the universe's first identified 'black hole star'. It is a massive black hole within a dense hydrogen gas blanket. This discovery may resolve the 'Little Red Dots' enigma observed by JWST. The finding offers a missing link in how supermassive black holes grew quickly.

13 Aug 2026 10:14 pm
Trump White House says it's losing $19B-$26B a year in revenue as countries dodge tariffs

A new US report claims countries route exports through third nations to avoid tariffs. This practice, known as transshipping, costs the United States billions in lost tax revenue annually. China is specifically named as a country utilizing this method to circumvent import taxes. The Trump administration is implementing new measures and artificial intelligence to combat this trade evasion.

13 Aug 2026 10:14 pm
Bill Ackman adds Netflix, Visa & Mastercard in biggest portfolio shake-up in years

Investor Bill Ackman has disclosed significant portfolio changes, adding Netflix and other companies. His funds acquired stakes in Alcon, Intercontinental Exchange, and S&P Global. Ackman also added Microsoft to his portfolio earlier this year.

13 Aug 2026 10:00 pm
US can keep naval blockade on Iranian ports indefinitely, Pentagon chief says

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the Navy can maintain an indefinite blockade of Iran. Ships will be rotated in and out of the region as needed for sustained pressure. President Donald Trump asserted complete control over the Strait of Hormuz. The US Navy has redirected over fifty commercial vessels attempting to breach the blockade. Military forces have also disabled and boarded several ships during operations.

13 Aug 2026 9:54 pm
MBA graduate was struggling after leaving his job when he discovered paan shop owner had bought car & built Rs 1 crore fortune; Internet debates education-wealth gap

An MBA graduate reevaluated traditional career paths after noticing the impressive wealth of a local paan shop owner. This revelation ignited a vibrant discussion on Reddit about the value of education versus entrepreneurship. Similarly, skilled trades like plumbing and electrical work demonstrated remarkable financial success, proving that several routes to wealth exist, often diverging from the typical salaried career trajectory.

13 Aug 2026 9:50 pm
An explosion strikes an ammunition plant near Rome; no injuries reported

An explosion struck an ammunition manufacturing plant in Colleferro near Rome on Thursday. Local authorities confirmed the incident at the former Simmel Difesa facility, now KNDS Ammo Italy. Initial reports indicated no injuries and all workers were safe following the blast. The explosion may have originated in the plant's powder-pressing department. Emergency crews responded to the site as the fire continued to burn.

13 Aug 2026 9:49 pm
Quote of the Day by Cher: If you really want something you can Inspiring lessons on determination, resilience, persistence, motivation and why you should never give up on what matters to you by the American singer known for her powerful performances and deep insights on human nature and lifes challenges

Quote of the Day by Cher: Chers quote, If you really want something you can figure out how to make it happen, explores the importance of determination, ambition, and persistence in achieving personal goals. The quote suggests that when a person genuinely wants something, they can look for solutions, overcome obstacles, and find ways to turn their dreams into reality rather than allowing difficulties or setbacks to stop them.

13 Aug 2026 9:47 pm
Quote of the day by Lewis Carroll: 'While the laughter of joy is in full harmony with our deeper life, the laughter of...' - inspiring quote by Through the Looking-Glass author teaches life lessons on laughter, joy, knowing when to joke and why some things should be taken seriously

Quote of the day by Lewis Carroll: Lewis Carroll's quote distinguishes genuine joy from mere amusement. He believed true happiness aligns with life's deeper aspects. Constant mockery can diminish the importance of serious matters. Finding a balance between humor and seriousness is a key life lesson.

13 Aug 2026 9:46 pm
Quote of the Day by Nikola Tesla: I do not think you can name many great inventions that have been made by married men The legendary inventors striking take on marriage, ambition, sacrifice and the price of extraordinary success

The quote of the Day by Nikola Tesla, I do not think you can name many great inventions that have been made by married men explores the famous inventors provocative views on marriage, creativity, ambition and the sacrifices behind extraordinary achievement. Nikola Tesla meant that he believed great inventions often require intense focus, and marriage could bring responsibilities that divide that attention.

13 Aug 2026 9:45 pm
Gen Z worker was told to attend client meeting after work hours. Heres how he outwitted his manager: You are not understanding'

Career coach Simon Ingari recently shared a brilliant post on how a Gen Z employee, whose manager was trying to pressure him into attending a client call after work hours, outwitted his boss and established that he would not be expected to work after hours.

13 Aug 2026 9:45 pm
US judge dismisses Trump administration lawsuit alleging Harvard failed to protect Jewish students

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Trump administration against Harvard University. The administration alleged Harvard failed to protect Jewish and Israeli students from harassment. Judge Richard Stearns ruled the lawsuit did not show an ongoing civil rights violation. This decision means the legal challenge against the university has been unsuccessful. The court found no plausible evidence of current federal law breaches on campus.

13 Aug 2026 9:42 pm
Aditya Birla Group levies royalty on Grasim, Hindalco, Novelis for brand use from June 2026

Aditya Birla Group companies will pay a brand royalty starting June 2026. A 0.25% revenue royalty is mandated, capped annually at Rs 225 crore. Grasim Industries expects royalty payments well below the established ceiling. Hindalco and Novelis will also adopt this new royalty payment structure. This transition marks a move towards more structured corporate governance practices.

13 Aug 2026 9:39 pm
Quote of the Day by Tom Holland: I think the most important thing is to be grateful for what... Timeless life lessons from an inspiring quote by the Spider-Man star on gratitude, family, happiness, love, mindfulness, meaningful relationships, and why appreciating the people in our lives may be one of lifes greatest lessons

Quote of the day by Tom Holland: Tom Holland's famous quote, I think the most important thing is to be grateful for what..., is a simple reminder to be grateful for what we have. The Spider-Man stars words carry a message about happiness, family, love, and meaningful relationships. In a world that moves fast, this quote asks us to pause. Sometimes, appreciating the people and moments in our lives is the greatest lesson of all.

13 Aug 2026 9:37 pm
Pakista's KPK CM calls for protest after meeting with Imran Khan denied

Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has called for protests after his delegation was denied a meeting with Imran Khan. Authorities have repeatedly denied access to the jailed former prime minister despite court orders. Khan's supporters allege inadequate medical care and restricted access to family members. A large march towards Islamabad is planned for September 27 demanding justice. The party is pursuing legal avenues but feels grievances are unaddressed.

13 Aug 2026 9:36 pm
Americas 5 Historic Haunted Places: Dark Energy, Ghosts and Unexplained Encounters You Wont Believe

Americas 5 Historic Haunted Places: Dark Energy, Ghosts and Unexplained Encounters You Wont Believe

13 Aug 2026 9:34 pm
Gen Z employee was asked to have work email on his phone. He asked one question: Who should I bill? Heres why it left HR silent

Generation Z is often unfairly condemned as lazy and entitled. Taking to X, a popular career coach explained how the current generation of employees is far from being entitled. They are just establishing boundaries when there were none before

13 Aug 2026 9:34 pm
USGS Earthquake Alert: 5.5-magnitude quake strikes off El Salvador Coast

A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck off El Salvador's coast on Wednesday. The offshore event occurred at a moderate depth of 56.8 kilometers. Tremors were felt in the capital city of San Salvador by residents. No immediate reports of major damage or casualties were issued. The seismic activity highlights El Salvador's ongoing vulnerability to earthquakes.

13 Aug 2026 9:30 pm
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Friday

Sensex gained 114 points while Nifty fell over 40 points on expiry day, reflecting divergent benchmark moves. Softer inflation supported sentiment, but elevated crude prices and geopolitical risks kept investors cautious, with Nifty remaining rangebound between key technical levels.

13 Aug 2026 9:29 pm
4 Zodiac Signs finally escape a 2-year karmic struggle as their luck begins to change

In astrology, the end of a difficult cycle is often less about receiving a reward and more about becoming ready for what comes next. Sometimes the biggest sign that a chapter has ended is simply realizing you no longer want to return to it.

13 Aug 2026 9:29 pm