The Economic Times

People across India are protesting peacefully, contrasting with violent agitations seen in other countries. The 'one nation, multiple elections' framework allows diverse political benefits to be shared among parties. This electoral model keeps governments accountable and responsive to public needs. Elections help to channel frustrations and enable citizens to express their concerns. As a result, the political landscape remains dynamic and participatory, fostering a sense of empowerment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet the new leadership of Niti Aayog on November 5. This meeting aims to establish budget priorities amidst global uncertainty and economic growth challenges. The focus will be on enhancing domestic manufacturing and creating employment opportunities. Experts from various sectors will provide insights related to India's development objectives.

CII has called for extending the GST Council's approach to decriminalise offences in various sectors. This move aims to enhance ease of doing business and attract investments in land, labour, and construction. The organisation emphasizes the importance of simplifying regulatory processes across different government tiers.

The Enforcement Directorate has registered an ECIR against Essel Group chairman Subhash Chandra in an alleged Rs 1,322 crore loan fraud involving LIC Housing Finance. The move follows a CBI FIR over two loan facilities worth Rs 980 crore sanctioned to Essel Group-linked companies in 2018. Zee Entertainment said the case does not affect its operations.

A setback could derail Donald Trump's agenda in the Congress. While economic growth data is flashing green, energy inflation and the domestic impact of tariffs could be dampeners.

Offshore crypto cards that allow Indian residents to spend digital assets on domestic purchases and withdraw cash have come under the scrutiny of the RBI and Financial Intelligence Unit. Several users have reported card deactivations in recent days, while authorities are understood to be examining potential violations of payment regulations and FEMA.

Mumbai: Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world's largest brewer, has set aside $30 million against outstanding payments from the Telangana government, highlighting the financial risks of operating in India's state-controlled alcohol market, where delayed payments and restrictions on price increases are squeezing brewers.The disclosure comes amid wider industry concerns over nearly $400 million Telangana owes to alcohol companies in dues. Industry groups have accused the state of breaching accounting ru

Singapore-headquartered Ascentium is looking to expand its India presence through acquisitions as it builds an Asia-focused global corporate services business. Backed by Hillhouse Investment, the firm has completed seven acquisitions in India since 2019 and is negotiating another, with plans to consolidate specialist firms and challenge established players in the market.

Andreas Almgren went from watching the NYC Marathon as a spectator last year to winning it on his debut in 2026. The Swedish distance runner clocked 2:06:01, the third-fastest time in race history. A former financial analyst and data scientist, Almgren quit his job to focus on running full-time. He has studied for a masters degree in mathematics.

Centre's proposed examination reforms have encountered resistance from southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu and Kerala, potentially delaying a full transition to computer-based NEET-UG until 2028-29. The Nilekani panel is considering a gradual shift, retaining the pen-and-paper option in 2027 while building consensus and addressing concerns over accessibility.

Over the past four quarters, India's medicine sales have increased significantly due to rising demand in chronic care segments. The growth rate reached 12% year-on-year in the September quarter, showing a positive trend in the industry. Larger pharmaceutical companies have benefited from the shutdown of many non-compliant smaller units. Budgets were also boosted by a reduction in GST on medicines.

Gulf-based investors are exploring opportunities in India's artificial intelligence and space technology sectors, despite overall subdued interest. Yotta, a data centre operator, successfully raised $150 million earlier this year for expansion plans. Pixxel Space Technologies is also seeking funding in the UAE to capitalize on growing investor interest in technology. The Indian rupee's depreciation has contributed to the cautious investment sentiment among broader market participants.

Military commissary refrigeration cyberattack probe: The Pentagon is investigating a series of unusual freezer malfunctions at US military commissaries after food worth thousands of dollars spoiled at multiple bases in August 2026. Investigators are examining whether the incidents were caused by a coordinated cyberattack, particularly after similar attacks targeted French supermarkets in October this year.

IDFC First Bank and small finance banks such as AU, Jana and Suryoday were among the biggest users of the scheme to reduce credit risk. They have set aside the guarantee fee for the current fiscal year, expecting the government to reopen the window soon, people aware of the matter said.

Mumbai: Banks are reporting 10-50% improvements across productivity, turnaround time and operating costs from artificial intelligence-led initiatives, with some lenders handling up to 30% more servicing volumes without adding manpower as AI moves deeper into corporate banking, collections and transaction processing.The gains vary across operations: Axis Bank has recorded productivity improvements of more than 10% in selected customer journeys, Kotak Mahindra Bank can handle 20-30% more corporate

Delhi Police have arrested three people, including a woman, over pro-Khalistan graffiti targeting singer Diljit Dosanjh at Jahangirpuri and Shastri Nagar metro stations ahead of his October 30 concert. Police allege the accused acted on instructions from an SFJ-linked associate and were offered financial rewards for defacing public property.

Diesel sales experienced an 11.7% year-on-year increase in October due to heightened economic activity. Petrol sales, on the other hand, increased by only 3.1% during the same month. LPG sales continued to decline significantly, dropping 12.1% year-on-year as supplies tightened. Aviation turbine fuel sales decreased by 1.3%, reflecting persistent sluggishness in the aviation sector. Overall, the fuel market showed mixed trends amid changing consumption patterns in India.

Thanksgiving 2026 will be celebrated across the US on Thursday, November 26, with millions expected to travel and gather with family and friends for the holiday. However, weather conditions could vary significantly across the country during Thanksgiving week. The Old Farmers Almanac has forecast rain in parts of the Pacific Northwest, cooler conditions across the Southwest and Plains, and possible snow or flurries in the Great Lakes and Midwest.

Electric car sales in India nearly doubled year-on-year to 35,777 units in October, taking their share of passenger vehicle sales to 7% from 3.2% a year earlier. Tata Motors led with a 40.7% market share, followed by Mahindra at 23.7%, as high fuel prices and expanding charging infrastructure supported demand.

Iran's Supreme Leader's representative stated the country seeks peace but is prepared for conflict. Iranian officials responded strongly to recent threats from the United States and Israel regarding military actions. Both Iranian Defence Minister and Foreign Minister emphasized the need for direct negotiations concerning the Strait of Hormuz. The situation remains tense as military options are being evaluated in Washington.

Las Vegas flash flooding remains a concern as the National Weather Service issues a Flood Advisory for northeastern Clark County until 9 am Sunday and keeps a broader Flood Watch in effect through Sunday night. Light-to-moderate rainfall will continue through the morning, with highest rainfall accumulations across Clark, Lincoln, & Mohave counties, according to NWS Legas.

Honda Cars India reported a 23% year-on-year decline in total sales to 8,082 units in October, as exports plunged 88% to 473 units. Domestic sales rose to 7,609 units from 6,394 a year earlier, supported by festive demand and a strong response to the recently launched Honda Elevate.

NYC Marathon TV Coverage: The 2026 NYC Marathon will bring nearly 60,000 runners to New York City on Sunday, November 1. Wondering where to watch the race live? Here's everything you need to know about NYC Marathon TV coverage, including the channels broadcasting the event, live streaming platforms, broadcast timings in the US and viewing options for audiences in India.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India plans to delist companies that have no economic activity. This move aims to protect investors, especially those investing in penny stocks. The regulator highlights the potential dangers posed by such inactive companies in the market. Additionally, Sebi intends to announce compliance requirements for foreign institutional investors soon.

Union Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched EPFO services through WhatsApp for easier access. Subscribers can check their PF balance and transaction history conveniently using this platform. The automatic settlement for inoperative EPF accounts was also introduced, streamlining the process for beneficiaries. In total, around one lakh accounts will benefit from this initiative. The EPFO's commitment to evolve and focus on worker-centric innovations was emphasized during the cele

India has engaged in discussions with Russia, Europe, and Ukraine regarding the ongoing conflict and its impact. These talks focused on preventing attacks on civilian shipping and restoring grain exports affected by Black Sea disruptions. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the complexity of discussions around ceasing attacks on energy installations. Various interpretations of what constitutes energy installations have complicated these discussions.

Heidi Klum Halloween costume: Heidi Klum stunned fans with another bizarre Halloween transformation in 2026, dressing up as a giant, bloodied replica of her own left hand. The elaborate costume featured oversized fingers, fake blood, her engagement and wedding rings, and a sweet tribute to husband Tom Kaulitz through his name tattooed on her finger.

BJP chief Nitin Nabin criticized Rahul Gandhi for allegedly acting under foreign influence to create disorder. He emphasized that the Constitution should govern the country rather than the 'Gandhi family's law.' Nabin accused the Congress party of seeking to challenge democratic processes after failing to secure a people's mandate. He also reiterated the BJP's intent to retain power in the upcoming general elections.

Renault India experienced a small decline in total sales during October compared to the previous year. However, domestic sales showed strong growth of 31% from January to October this year. The company reported total October sales of 4,577 units, down from 4,672 units last year. Sequentially, sales increased by 35%, indicating strong market traction. Deliveries for the New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 will begin soon.

Karnataka's Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced a mandatory flag hoisting for private firms this month. This decision arises from issues regarding local employment in IT and manufacturing sectors. Pro-Kannada group KRV will collect data on Kannadiga employment in companies statewide. Complaints of discriminatory hiring practices have recently drawn attention and are being addressed by the government.

Kia India reported its highest-ever monthly wholesales since entering the Indian market at 33,462 units in October 2026, registering a 13.22% year-on-year increase from 29,556 units in the same month last year.The company also surpassed its previous monthly sales record of 32,017 units set in September, marking a second consecutive month of record sales.Also read: TVS Motor sales rise 29% to 7 lakh units in October; EV sales jump 120%The automaker's cumulative wholesales rose 21.31% to 2,86,470

Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS may have formed more than 7 billion years before our Sun was born. A new study using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has uncovered unusual chemical clues that could reveal the comet's ancient origins and the conditions in which it formed. Its deuterium-to-hydrogen ratio was also 13 times higher than that of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko.

Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP is manipulating the Election Commission to influence upcoming elections in Uttar Pradesh. He claimed that the names of eligible voters had been wrongfully deleted from electoral rolls, impacting electoral fairness. The INDIA bloc held a rally in Delhi's Ramlila Maidan to protest against these alleged irregularities and to rally support.

Climate author and entrepreneur Mridula Ramesh has warned that rising temperatures are melting Himalayan permafrost, weakening mountain slopes and increasing the risks of landslides and floods. Comparing the changes to Lord Shiva's loosening locks, she also explained how earlier snowmelt could leave less water for summer.

Regulation is vital for protecting consumers and building trust, but unpredictable or poorly calibrated policy changes can disrupt business economics, valuations and investment.

Carlsberg has filed an updated draft red herring prospectus for its potential IPO in India. Pernod Ricard continues to prepare for its proposed listing while awaiting board approval for its Indian business. Coca-Cola is exploring a potential IPO for its Indian bottling operations, emphasizing the value in the domestic market. These developments indicate a growing interest in public listings among multinational beverage companies in India.

Cyclonic storm 'Murasu' has intensified over the Bay of Bengal, with landfall expected on the Andhra Pradesh coast. Odisha's government has issued a high alert in the southern regions, preparing for potential heavy rainfall. Evacuations have been ordered for residents in low-lying and hilly areas as a precautionary measure. Meteorological officials predict significant rainfall in Odisha starting November 2, with increased intensity expected soon after.

Rahul Gandhi accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of forcibly closing shops in Connaught Place during a recent rally. He stated that this action led to significant losses for local traders who relied on shoppers from the event. Gandhi emphasized that attendees were encouraged to support local businesses during their visit. He questioned the motives behind the alleged shutdown of shops in the area.

In October, various automakers experienced different sales results, highlighting a mixed performance across the industry. Hyundai Motor India observed a 17.7% sales increase, with domestic and export growth. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles reported an impressive 23% rise in sales, including a 75% increase in electric vehicles. Conversely, Escorts Kubota faced a 10% sales decline during this time period.

Investors building a Rs 10 lakh mutual fund portfolio with a 5-10 year horizon should focus on growth-oriented strategies and consider diversifying across two fund managers, says Prateek Agrawal of Motilal Oswal AMC. He highlights flexi-cap funds, emerging sectors and AI-linked businesses as opportunities, while advocating focused investing and a mix of growth and value strategies.

Ten actively traded penny stocks have fallen between 34% and 73% over the past three months, highlighting the risks associated with low-priced shares. Cropster Agro recorded the steepest decline at 73%, followed by Bridge Securities and Empower India, which dropped 55% and 50%, respectively.