The Economic Times

More than 7.4 million Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive their March 2026 Social Security payment early on February 27, 2026. The early SSI deposit is nationwide. It is not a stimulus check. The Social Security Administration moved the payment because March 1 falls on a Sunday. Federal rules require benefits to go out on the prior business day. March will not have a separate SSI payment. It is a schedule shift. Not extra money.

Twenty suspects are now the focus as the FBI identifies names and photos in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. Agents are canvassing gun shops with photo packets to find the owner of a black Ozark Trail backpack. DNA evidence from a recovered glove is undergoing genetic genealogy testing. Over 14,500 search hours and a $200,000 reward drive this high-stakes Tucson case. Savannah Guthries family is cleared as federal searches expand.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos believes Nancy Guthrie, 84, was a victim of targeted kidnapping near her Tucson home. Law enforcement is actively searching, with evidence including DNA analysis and surveillance footage of a potential suspect. Rewards for information now exceed $200,000.

Skywatchers have a rare opportunity to witness a rare six-planet alignment on February 28, 2026. Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter will appear in a line shortly after sunset. While four planets can be watched with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a telescope. NASA highlights that planets must be sufficiently above the horizon for optimal viewing, as lower positions are obscured by Earths atmosphere and obstacles.

Jeffrey Immelts quote, Leadership is an intense journey into yourself... Every morning, I look in the mirror and say, 'I could have done three things better yesterday' highlights the significance of self-reflection in leadership. It refers to daily accountability and personal growth. Immelts career, spanning major corporate transformations and global challenges, offers weight to his perspective.

Bitcoin BTC USD price prediction: Eric Trump expressed strong confidence in Bitcoin at the World Financial Forum, calling it a top-performing asset class. He believes Bitcoin could reach $1 million, citing its significant past growth and potential upside, despite acknowledging its inherent volatility. Trump remains highly bullish on the cryptocurrency's future.

The International Monetary Fund will present its U.S. economic policy review on February 25. This report will examine fiscal, trade, and current account deficits. It will also assess the dollar's value. The IMF views the dollar as central to the global monetary system. The review follows consultations with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other Trump administration officials.

Many job seekers are now trying AI interview tools to feel more confident during interviews. These tools can help people structure answers, remember points, and reduce stress. But they cannot replace real preparation or strong knowledge. Experts say candidates still need good basics, practice, and understanding because AI tools can only give small support, not full success.

The United States has paid USD 160 million towards its substantial UN dues. This payment is for the UN's regular budget. The UN had warned of financial collapse if member nations did not pay. The US owes billions to the UN's regular and peacekeeping budgets. This comes as President Trump convenes a new peace initiative.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed concerns over the recent India-US trade deal. He stated the agreement will adversely affect farmers in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Apple, almond, and walnut growers are expected to face significant consequences. Sukhu highlighted that almond prices have already seen a decline due to such trade agreements.

Supreme Court is investigating missing case records. A fact-finding inquiry has been ordered by the court's secretary general. This follows the discovery of a missing order from a Goa tiger reserve case. The court noted that missing proceedings have become a common issue. The inquiry aims to understand how these important documents disappear from case files.

Iran's nuclear deal window is closing amid US military build-up in the Middle East. The UN nuclear watchdog chief met with Iranian and US officials to discuss concrete proposals for inspections. Inspectors have not verified Iran's nuclear material for over eight months.

Airbus is setting up a helicopter production line in India with Tata. This facility will cater to regional civilian and military needs. Over 1,000 choppers are expected for the civilian sector. The military sector also presents large requirements. The first helicopter is anticipated by early 2027.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly condemned the trailer for The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond. He described the film as a collection of fabricated narratives designed to create communal discord. Vijayan stated that Kerala will reject this attempt to tarnish its secular image. He urged the public to treat the film with utmost seriousness.

The Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam has officially joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led Secular Progressive Alliance. This alliance is for the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The DMDK's decision ends speculation about their political alignment. This move is seen as a blow to the National Democratic Alliance. The DMK chief welcomed the DMDK's general secretary to the alliance.

Maha Vikas Aghadi partners are not united on sending Sharad Pawar to the Rajya Sabha. Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray Sena and NCP-SP support the move. Maharashtra Congress is hesitant, seeking clarity on a potential NCP merger with the ruling NDA. Congress also feels sidelined by the unilateral decision. All three parties need to discuss their stance.

Quote of the day by Amy Tan: Renowned author Amy Tan reveals how reading offered her a vital refuge and the power to envision different outcomes during challenging times. Her insights, drawn from a life shaped by a multilingual upbringing and the immigrant experience, highlight literature's role in fostering resilience and imagination.

The Election Commission of India has directed chief electoral officers across 23 states and Union Territories to expedite preparatory work for a special intensive revision of electoral rolls. This significant exercise is slated to commence in April. This move covers states like Uttarakhand, Manipur, and Punjab, which are preparing for elections in 2027.

The Labour and Employment Ministry has prepared a list of nearly two dozen compliances for employers under four new labour codes. These reforms aim to increase accountability and minimize legal disputes. The codes, which replaced 29 old laws, mandate foundational, monthly, annual, and event-based compliances. Employers must ensure timely wage payments, social security contributions, and adherence to safety regulations.

In a bold rebuttal, Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, has called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his controversial reference to the revered Ramakrishna Paramahansa as 'Swami.' Banerjee passionately emphasized that Bengals cultural icons should be honored with their rightful titles, such as the cherished name 'Thakur' for Ramakrishna.

A massive unsecured database with billions of records was discovered by security researchers. It includes emails, passwords, and many real Social Security numbers. Experts say much of the data is old but still very risky because some details never change. Many victims may not even know their information is exposed, which makes the leak a serious long-term security threat.

In a surprising political shuffle, Bishnu Prasad Sharma, a formerly defiant MLA from the BJP representing Kurseong, has opted to align himself with the ruling Trinamool Congress. Sharma revealed that the escalating pressure to embrace communal rhetoric and divisive campaign strategies forced him to leave the BJP.

In West Bengal, a staggering 7 million voters might find themselves removed from the electoral rolls. Approximately 500,000 have had their names rejected, while another 500,000 did not attend their hearings. The final voter list is set to be published on February 28, but many names remain in limbo due to document verification issues.

Carl Sagans quote, Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were, but without it we go nowhere, highlights imagination as the foundation of progress, even when it leads to ideas that never materialize. It states that imagining possibilities, whether realistic or not, is what motivates exploration and growth. Without imagination, curiosity fades and advancement stops.

Hypnagogic refers to a dreamlike state that appears as wakefulness fades and sleep begins. During this brief phase, imagination happens freely, logic softens, and the mind forms unusual connections. The concept matters because several creative insights, emotional realizations, and rapid ideas emerge here. The hypnagogic state states why late-night thoughts feel profound and why strange sensations can occur before sleep.

Oil price to touch $100 as Iran nuclear talks collapse? Brent crude hit $71.41 on February 19 as U.S.-Iran war fears explode. Trump deployed two carrier strike groups and 50 fighter jets to the Middle East in 48 hours. Iran nuclear talks collapsed in Geneva. A military strike could come within days. The Strait of Hormuz carrying 31% of global seaborne oil is now at direct risk. Analysts warn oil hits $100 if shooting starts. The 10-day countdown has begun.

Job interview tips for leaving current job: A Reddit user's query about leaving a job highlights a common professional challenge. Experts advise focusing on future opportunities like growth and new challenges. Speaking negatively about a current employer can backfire. Framing your exit around career development and skill enhancement is key.

Jennifer Garner starrer The Last Thing He Told Me Season 2 release time, schedule and how to watch worldwide is confirmed. Season 2 starts February 20 on Apple TV+. The story continues after five years. Eight episodes will release weekly. Viewers can watch using Apple TV+. The season follows Hannah, Owen, and Baileys story continuation.

The European Central Bank has imposed a significant fine of over 12 million euros on JPMorgan's European division. This penalty stems from incorrect reporting of capital requirements. The bank miscalculated its risk-weighted assets for a prolonged period.

India hosted a successful AI Impact Summit with global leaders attending. The BJP praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for this achievement. The party criticized the Congress for not acknowledging the summit's success. Prime Minister Modi unveiled a human-centric AI vision. The Congress leaders had previously called the summit a PR spectacle and criticized the display of Chinese products.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with global CEOs at the India AI Impact Summit, focusing on responsible AI scaling and enhanced global collaboration. The summit, inaugurated by the Prime Minister, saw stakeholders united in their commitment to leveraging AI for human progress and sustainable development.

Himachal Pradesh is boosting its income through new rules for liquor shops, toll collection, and vehicle entry fees. These changes aim to collect more revenue after a key grant ended. The government is using technology for better collection and transparency. Reforms in excise and toll collection are now in place.

Cristiano Ronaldo invested millions in a health technology company linked to Herbalife. The software collects user health data and gives personal wellness plans. The news came with Herbalifes earnings report and helped its stock rise. Ronaldo already works with the company and earns huge money from business deals, social media, and football while preparing for the 2026 World Cup.

A US federal agency is suing Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast. The agency alleges the company discriminated against male employees. This happened by excluding them from a company-sponsored networking event for women. The lawsuit claims this violates civil rights law. Coca-Cola Northeast states it looks forward to presenting its full story in court.

Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette series Episode 4 release time, schedule and how to watch is confirmed for February 19 on FX and Hulu. The limited series has nine episodes. It follows weekly releases, streaming options, free trial access, and full schedule details for viewers worldwide.

President Trump has issued a stark 10-day ultimatum to Iran, hinting at potential US military action if a peace deal isn't reached. This warning comes amidst a significant US military buildup in the Middle East, despite Trump's claims of prioritizing peace and ending wars. The deadline looms as nuclear talks remain stalled.

President Donald Trump announced the United States will provide financial assistance to the United Nations to strengthen its operations and ensure its viability. Despite previously withholding mandatory payments and cutting voluntary funding, Trump stated the U.S. will help improve UN facilities and make the organization more effective, believing it has significant untapped potential.

India and Kenya have partnered to launch a DigiLocker pilot project in Kenya. This agreement, signed in New Delhi, will enable secure digital storage and verification of official documents. The platform will be customized for Kenyan needs. This initiative aims to reduce paperwork and improve access to public services for citizens, students, and businesses.

2026 Winter Olympics Women Single Skating Free Skating event promises a blend of artistry, athleticism and nerve. With medals hanging in the balance, fans worldwide will be tuning in to witness history unfold on Olympic ice.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced plans to introduce nine new tourist destinations and reopen sites closed after the Pahalgam terror attack by May. The government is focusing on improving infrastructure and encouraging repeat tourism to revive the sector, with hotels in key winter destinations now operating at full capacity.

Thousands of Delhi residents faced harrowing commutes on Thursday due to severe traffic congestion and route diversions during the AI Impact Summit. Key areas like Sunehri Bagh and routes to the airport saw vehicles crawling for hours. Commuters expressed frustration on social media, citing movement restrictions linked to VIP security. Navigation apps frequently rerouted users as roads remained choked.

The US trade deficit became very large in 2025 and worried economists. The gap grew because imports increased while exports dropped. Tariffs, AI equipment buying, and changing trade with different countries also affected the numbers. Experts say trade stayed unstable all year. The data shows the US still buys much more from other countries than it sells.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh distributed Rs 33 crore to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) through Direct Benefit Transfer. For the first time, he interacted with both Meitei and Kuki-Zo IDPs together, listening to their hardships and assuring efforts to bridge trust deficits and facilitate their return home.

Rising US-Iran military tensions see Iran conduct partial Strait of Hormuz closure during drills, a familiar tactic to signal its ability to disrupt global energy markets. This military posturing occurs amid ongoing nuclear negotiations in Geneva, highlighting a delicate balance between diplomacy and deterrence.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She took offense at his use of the prefix 'Swami' for spiritual leader Ramakrishna Paramahansa. Banerjee stated that the Prime Minister should not invent new titles for Bengal's great figures. She explained that Ramakrishna was revered as 'Thakur', while 'Swami' was a title for his disciples.

Virginia Giuffre was one of the most visible survivors to openly accuse Jeffrey Epstein and his associates of sex trafficking and abuse. Her testimony named powerful personalities and exposed how vulnerable girls were exploited through manipulation, coercion, and institutional neglect. In her memoir Nobodys Girl, published after her death in 2025, Giuffre traced her journey from a traumatic childhood to global advocacy for survivors.

Hardik Pandya revealed his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma's significant impact on his personal and professional life, helping him rediscover his passion for cricket. He believes he has only utilized 40% of his batting potential and is now intensely training to unlock it, with Mahieka's support playing a crucial role in this renewed focus and commitment.