The Times of India

According to GTRI, the latest trade figures for January 2026 reflect the significant impact of US tariffs on Indias export performance, while also indicating early signs of diversification into other markets.

Supplies of Urals, along with other export grades such as Sokol and Varandey, have added to regular shipments of Russias flagship ESPO blend exported from the Far East port of Kozmino, which is geographically closer to China.

A homebuyer advocacy group has alleged that several state regulators have failed to publish the annual reports mandated under the law. Has RERA improved project delivery? What are RERA reports and why are they important for protecting homebuyers? We take a look:

India is set to launch a new ail tech policy to boost domestic manufacturing of advanced railway technology and equipment. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imports, particularly from China, by offering manufacturers partial funding, technical support, and access to testing facilities. The policy builds on previous innovation efforts and supports the government's broader rail modernization drive.

Draft Income Tax Rules 2026: Under the proposed framework, the threshold limits for several transactions requiring PAN Card details to be disclosed have undergone a change.

Rajesh Nambiar, President of Nasscom, addressed concerns about AI displacing tech jobs, emphasising that intricate business demands and regulatory frameworks will ensure the ongoing necessity of IT services. He envisions a future where the industry evolves through AI orchestration, building on profound enterprise expertise. Furthermore, he highlights that India's skilled workforce is well-positioned to thrive in this transformative era.

Referring to established jurisprudence, including precedent from the Bombay High Court, the Bench emphasized the legal principle that long cohabitation and societal recognition reinforce presumptions of lawful marriage.

Stock market recommendations: Arvind, and Bajaj Finance are the top stock picks by Sudeep Shah, Head - Technical Research and Derivatives, SBI Securities for the week starting February 16, 2026. He also shares his views and outlook on Nifty, Bank Nifty:

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices have pulled back from recent highs, but there is an underlying bullish bias, says Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd. Below is his outlook for gold prices today and this week, along with top factors that will influence the movement of the yellow metal:

As the United States observes Presidents Day on Monday, February 16, federal holidays mean many services will be closed. Banks, government offices, and post offices will shut down, with no mail delivery. However, digital banking and ATMs remain accessible, and most retail stores and restaurants will operate normally.

Stock market today: After deep cuts towards the end of last week, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, opened in red on Monday. While Nifty50 was below 25,450, BSE Sensex dropped over 100 points in opening trade.

UAE telecom provider du has partnered to invest in the Singapore-India-Gulf (SING) submarine cable system, a new undersea fiber-optic network linking the Middle East with South and Southeast Asia. This strategic move reinforces the UAE's position as a regional data hub, enhancing connectivity for AI, cloud services, and global digital growth.

Stock market recommendations: Delhivery, and Britannia are the top stock picks for the trading week starting February 16, 2026 from Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd. Lets take a look:

Top Indian firms saw over Rs 3 lakh crore wiped off their market value last week, with IT giants TCS and Infosys leading the decline. A broad market selloff, fueled by global cues and AI disruption fears impacting tech stocks, dragged down valuations. However, select banking and financial stocks like SBI managed to gain.

A new rural employment scheme, VB-G RAM G, has secured the largest budget share, overshadowing MGNREGA with a significant allocation. While MGNREGA faces a sharp funding cut, other key rural development projects like PMAY-G and PMGSY have seen substantial increases. The shift in fund-sharing for VB-G RAM G could impact state government spending.

India's economic growth is expanding beyond major cities, with northern and eastern districts emerging as new activity hubs. While established metros like Ahmedabad and Bengaluru lead, districts such as Gurugram, Hooghly, and Moradabad show significant rank improvements. This decentralised growth, driven by infrastructure and connectivity, signals a reshaping of local economies beyond traditional urban centres.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the Union Budget's focus on productive spending and record infrastructure outlays, steering clear of populism for sustainable growth. He emphasized plugging structural gaps, pursuing reforms, and laying foundations for a developed India, marking the 'next level' of the nation's journey. The Budget prioritizes long-term assets over short-term gains.

Precious metal prices are set for continued volatility and consolidation as investors await crucial US economic data, including inflation and GDP figures. Market watchers are closely observing Federal Reserve signals for potential rate cut timelines. Gold experienced a sharp correction in February, influenced by stronger US employment data, while silver futures saw a decline.

India and the UK's free trade agreement, signed last year, is slated for implementation by April 2026. This pact promises 99% duty-free access for Indian exports to Britain, while India will lower tariffs on cars and whisky. Parliamentary approval is currently underway in the UK, paving the way for enhanced bilateral trade.

Stock markets are poised for a volatile week, driven by US economic data, the Federal Reserve's policy outlook, and growing AI disruption fears. Analysts anticipate a cautious sentiment as investors monitor global geopolitical events and currency movements. Domestic sectors like banking and automobiles may gain traction, while broader indices are expected to trade sideways awaiting clearer economic signals.

India and the US aim to boost bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, with energy imports like crude oil and LNG forming a key part. This interim trade agreement will help India secure competitive energy prices and diversify suppliers. The pact also focuses on increasing steel, coking coal, and IT exports, enhancing market access for Indian goods.

The railway ministry has launched a new onboard cleaning initiative for long-distance trains, deploying professional teams to clean coaches and toilets at hourly intervals or as needed. This tech-enabled reform aims to enhance passenger experience through real-time monitoring and accountability. Additionally, the ministry will permit cargo facilities on spare railway land to boost freight operations.

Foreign investors injected Rs 19,675 crore into Indian stocks in early February, reversing months of outflows. This surge, driven by a US-India trade deal and easing global economic worries, signals renewed optimism. Despite this, overall 2025 flows remain weak, with significant net outflows recorded year-to-date.

UAE's property market is seeing a surge in first-time homebuyers in 2026, driven by government support and a shift towards long-term value. Buyers now prioritise build quality, practical design and community infrastructure over speculation. Affordability and tech-driven mortgage solutions are making ownership more accessible, fostering a generation committed to homeownership as a lifestyle choice.

Contrary to fears, generative AI isn't causing mass layoffs in India's IT sector. A new ICRIER-OpenAI study reveals AI is boosting productivity and transforming roles, not replacing workers. While entry-level hiring has seen a slight dip, mid and senior positions remain stable, indicating a shift towards skill enhancement rather than job elimination.

Young Indians, across Gen Z and Millennials, overwhelmingly favor gold as their top investment choice, with 62% preferring it over mutual funds, stocks, and crypto. Even with modern options available, gold is seen as the safest bet, especially during uncertain economic times. Purchases are increasingly personal and smaller, driven by income and investment goals rather than just tradition.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed India committed to halting additional Russian oil purchases, amidst ongoing US sanctions. However, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized strategic autonomy and decisions guided by ational interest and market dynamics. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov disputed claims of India stopping oil buys, accusing the US of coercion.