The Economic Times

As Diwali approaches, urban Indian households are hiring professional organizers to help them declutter and organize. Companies like Joy Factory and Messmerize report significant growth in festive bookings compared to last year. The demand for such services not only peaks during festivals but is also becoming a year-round requirement. Organizers focus on sorting belongings and creating organized spaces rather than deep cleaning homes.

US midterm elections 2026: Donald Trump also rallied for Republicans in competitive races in Alaska, Iowa, Montana and South Carolina. He is set to visit Mississippi on Monday.

The Indian Navy marked a key development in enhancing its underwater capabilities with the AIP system. The inauguration of the 'Setting to Work Phase-2' activity took place in Hazira, Gujarat. This advancement will significantly improve the endurance of diesel-electric submarines during underwater operations. The AIP energy module will undergo rigorous testing before integration into Kalvari-class submarines by 2027.

Muskan Rastogi and Sahil Shukla have filed an appeal in the Allahabad High Court challenging their death penalty. They were convicted for the murder of Saurabh Rajput, whose body was disposed of in a blue drum. The trial court described the case as one of the rarest of rare types. Their appeal argues that evidence presented was circumstantial and insufficient for a conviction.

India weather news: The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several states. Heavy rainfall is expected in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry over the next few days. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are forecasted in various regions, including Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Additionally, Odisha is preparing for the potential impact of cyclone Arnab approaching the coast.

Irans ambassador to Pakistan stated that Iran is willing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the US lifts its naval blockade. The June agreement, brokered by Pakistan and Qatar, aimed to ease tensions and restore shipping in the strait. Although Iran expressed readiness to negotiate, the US continues its blockade, complicating diplomatic efforts. The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, signed by several countries, is also under consideration by Tehran.

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced preparations for cyclone Arnab, expected to make landfall on October 28. The India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rainfall and rough seas in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Specific responsibilities have been assigned to various departments for coordinated disaster response measures. The government aims for zero casualties during the impending weather event.

Amitabh Bachchan encountered severe financial difficulties in the late 1990s due to his production company. The situation became so dire that his Juhu home was at risk of public bidding. Rajinikanth highlighted the support Bachchan received after he turned to television and advertising. Through persistence, Bachchan not only cleared his debts but also recovered both properties. Additionally, he successfully maintained communication with fans while focusing on his health.

Donald Trump has dismissed reports of planning to remove the White House press room and replace it with a swimming pool. He labeled the speculation as Fake News, affirming that the pool will not be restored. Trump indicated that the idea of bringing back the pool was foolish and never crossed his mind. Furthermore, he suggested possibly relocating the press but ruled out restoring the old pool.

AU's gross non-performing assets ratio fell 42 basis points (bps) to 1.99% at the end of September. This helped in 25% lower provision at Rs 359 crore against Rs 481 crore. Net NPA ratio improved by 7 bps to 0.81%. Annualised credit cost improved by 45 bps to 0.8% from 1.2% over the year.

In terms of stock performance, around 14 stocks in the portfolio have delivered positive returns so far in FY27, while nearly half have posted negative returns.

Kotak Mahindra Bank has announced an impressive 26% year-on-year increase in consolidated profit after tax for the second quarter, highlighting strong financial performance. Their standalone profit after tax surged by 29% compared to last year

The Nifty 50 declined in all four sessions of the holiday-shortened week, hitting an intraweek low of 22,372 on Friday before closing 2.4% lower at 22,600. The Bank Nifty fell 2.8%, while the Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap 100 plunged 5.6% and 7.3%, respectively, as selling pressure intensified beyond frontline stocks.

Indias emerging sectors are set to attract fresh bank financing over the next three to five years, with AI, semiconductors and defence leading investment opportunities, according to a Union Bank of India report. Battery storage, green hydrogen, semiconductor packaging and defence suppliers could gain funding as industries expand. However, technology obsolescence, uncertain revenues and long payback periods remain key lending risks.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has invited public opinion and stakeholder inputs on the proposed network architecture for a dedicated pan-India Broadband Public Protection and Disaster Relief (BB-PPDR) communication system aimed at strengthening communication capabilities among police forces and other public safety agencies across the country.

A foreign traveller has praised India's road network, saying the country now has some of the best roads in the world after completing a journey of more than 2,500 km from Tamil Nadu towards the Himalayas. The drive took him through several states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan, as India continues to expand its National Highway network.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India has directed Avadhut Sathe Trading Academy to refund 546.18 crore to investors. Avadhut Sathe and his academy provided unregistered investment advisory services under the pretext of education. The regulator found that misleading testimonials were circulated while concealing overall trading losses. A penalty of 11.5 crore was imposed on Sathe and the academy for their actions.

Kerala Governor Om Prakash Mathur's decision to ban non-vegetarian meals in the Lok Bhavan kitchen has stirred controversy. Congress leader K.C. Venugopal criticized this directive, claiming it violates individual dietary rights. He highlighted Kerala's diverse culinary customs and emphasized the people's freedom to choose their diet. Sources from the Governor's office clarified that the kitchen's restrictions only apply to Mathur's personal meals.

Damanis other top stock holdings in terms of holding value are United Breweries, TSF Investments, Horizon Industrial Parks, Blue Dart Express and Bhagiradha Chemicals.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has reported a 21.45% decline in consolidated net profit for Q2 FY27. The decline is attributed to losses from the sale of petrol, diesel, and LPG, which affected marketing margins. Consolidated revenue from operations increased by 29.7% compared to the previous fiscal year. As of September 30, 2026, BPCL's cumulative under recoveries on LPG reached 17,334.40 crore.

In the second quarter of FY2027, Dr. Reddy's Labs experienced a downturn in both revenue and profit. However, the company supports new trade margin regulations that aim to improve access to vital medicines. With a commitment to boosting its core business performance, management is also dedicated to exploring growth avenues.

Adani Power has reported a 142% increase in net profit for the July-September quarter. This profit was driven by strong electricity demand and exceptional prior-period income. Operating revenue for the company saw a nearly 30% increase compared to the previous year. The company also recognized significant revenue due to adjustments in historic energy charges under its power purchase agreements.

JSW Steel achieved an impressive three-fold rise in its consolidated net profit for the September quarter, highlighted by a record-breaking 13% increase in sales volumes compared to last year. The company has received approval for ambitious expansion projects, aiming to add 5 million tonnes at the Utkal site in Odisha.

Outward remittances under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) stood at $2.7 billion, with travel accounting for the largest chunk. Indians spent $1.6 billion on travel in August, from $1.7 billion in July, while $275 million were spent on maintenan-ce of relatives. Indian citizen spent $321 million on investments in equity and debt, while $191 million on studies abroad.

Gross foreign direct investment (FDI) to India decreased to $11 billion in August, from $14 billion a month ago. Net FDI to India slows $3 billion in August, from $7 billion in July. Financial services, communication services, computer services and manufacturing accounted for around 73% of total FDI equity inflows during April-August 2026.

Shares of Swiggy fell by 16.4% to 176.70, marking a record low for the company. This decline raises concerns over cash burn and achieving profitability in its quick-commerce business. Analysts are questioning Swiggy's strategic choices and execution following its market debut. The widening losses in the quick-commerce segment have drawn attention to the company's overall performance.

BSE has initiated the search for its next managing director and chief executive officer. Sundararaman Ramamurthy is scheduled to retire in June 2027 after reaching the age limit. The exchange is looking for candidates with at least 20 years of experience, which includes senior leadership roles. Applicants need to be under 62 years old as of July 1, 2027.

IndusInd Bank reported an impressive consolidated net profit of

Infosys released its quarterly results, showing good revenue growth and stable operating margins. However, the management reduced the annual revenue guidance due to competitive pressures. The company secured a significant $2 billion deal, boosting its total contract value to $5.2 billion. Despite positive performance from some sectors, weaknesses in others contributed to the cautious outlook. The market response led to a rise in the stock price, affecting valuation metrics.

Jio Platforms has experienced a surge in demand for its initial public offering, garnering roughly

Mid-cap and small-cap stocks in India have faced major declines, indicating a shift in market sentiment. The Nifty MidCap 150 and Small-cap 250 indices reported their worst weekly falls in two years. Domestic retail investors initially supported these segments by increasing mutual fund contributions. However, concerns over rising oil prices and fiscal deficits are adding to market uncertainties.

Donald Trump issued a military warning to Iran during a campaign rally, suggesting possible future strikes. He highlighted the importance of diplomatic negotiations, implying that Iran's leadership may not be sufficiently strategic. Trump discussed the US Navy's presence in the Caribbean and noted Senator Marco Rubio's role in diplomacy. Additionally, he announced a federal investment of $250 million to hire new nurses for elder care facilities.

A recent intelligence report indicates that Iran is intensifying its attacks on American diplomats in the Middle East. The U.S. Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel in Saudi Arabia. Security concerns have risen due to Iranian-backed Houthi forces targeting civilian infrastructure in the region. Additionally, President Donald Trump has warned Iran of potential military action if negotiations do not succeed.

A ceasefire in the Kherson region of Ukraine will commence to enable humanitarian efforts in Oleshky. Melania Trump has played a crucial role in organizing aid delivery and civilian evacuations. The agreement was reached between Ukrainian, Russian and US negotiators ahead of the mission. Civilians in Oleshky are facing dire conditions with limited food and medical supplies. Safety measures for the mission will include mine clearance and secure evacuation routes.

Rafael Grossi from the IAEA forecasts that nuclear power usage may more than triple by 2060. This increase will be driven by rising demands for electricity, especially from data centers powered by artificial intelligence. Grossi emphasized the importance of nuclear energy for energy security and its safety compared to other options. He also highlighted concerns regarding nuclear programs in Iran and North Korea, urging diplomatic efforts.

A tanker transporting Russian diesel to the United States has departed, signaling a new import agreement. This deal has raised concerns in Ukraine due to Russia's ongoing invasion. U.S. political figures criticized the agreement as it contravenes existing American laws and may benefit Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed disappointment over the decision and its potential impacts.

With the midterm elections approaching, President Trump is implementing various strategies to combat high diesel prices. These measures include financial aid for farmers and adjustments to regulations for truckers. However, criticisms arise regarding the effectiveness of these solutions and their geopolitical implications. Many voters attribute rising costs to Trump's policies, posing a challenge for Republican candidates. Ultimately, the pressure to lower diesel prices remains as the elections

Hunter Biden Laptop case: The case was filed less than two weeks before the November 3 elections via criminal complaint, which means prosecutors have not yet presented the allegations to a grand jury for an indictment.

Congress has approached Samajwadi Party regarding contesting a significant number of seats in Uttar Pradesh. While Congress has proposed 175 to 200 seats, Samajwadi Party considers this demand excessive for the party's strength. Currently, Congress holds only two seats in the UP assembly of 403 members. The leadership of both parties will meet for discussions on seat-sharing arrangements.

Tata Sons is currently observing the situation involving its majority owners, Tata Trusts, regarding governance issues. The annual general meeting (AGM) deadlines are approaching and require shareholder majority for resolutions. Important changes in trustee roles could affect voting dynamics significantly. Legal experts suggest focusing on regulatory clarity to facilitate successful AGM execution. Clear representation and consensus among the trusts are critical for passing necessary resolutions.

Tata Motors Ltd achieved a standalone net profit of 2,138 crore for the September quarter, reversing last year's loss. Revenue from operations rose significantly to 23,930 crore, up 42% from the previous year. Improved demand was driven by higher fleet utilization and industrial activity, according to managing director Girish Wagh. Consolidated profit also increased to 1,257 crore, aided by a drop in mark-to-market losses.

The US Justice Department is seeking to invalidate Alaska's Senate election results if the Republican incumbent loses next month, in a rare legal move that raises questions about the Trump administration's willingness to accept defeat in the midterms. Democrats have accused the Trump administration of seeking to influence the November vote by expanding federal control over state-run elections and by repeatedly questioning the integrity of election results.

In Trappes and La Verriere, a Paris suburban area, a gunman opened fire, killing one person and injuring several others. Authorities suspect the attack to be racially motivated, leading them to classify it as a terrorist crime. A twelve-year-old girl was among the seriously injured, reflecting the attack's random targeting of passersby. The suspect was arrested shortly after the shootings, which happened in under fifteen minutes.

EAAA India Alternatives has successfully raised approximately Rs 360 crore from anchor investors prior to its IPO. This IPO is set to open for public subscription on October 26. The company will not receive any proceeds from the issue as it is an offer for sale. Prominent institutional investors and major domestic mutual fund houses participated in the anchor allocation.

Shriram Finance reported a 59.4% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY27 standalone profit to Rs 3,677 crore, driven by higher net interest income and lower funding costs. Assets under management grew 17%, while the board declared an interim dividend of Rs 6.50 per share.