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The Economic Times

Company / The Economic Times

China wouldn't let Marco Rubio in, so he did something nobody in US politics has ever done

Marco Rubio visited China with Donald Trump. Beijing altered the spelling of Rubio's name to bypass sanctions imposed in 2020. This linguistic change allowed his entry despite previous criticism of China's human rights record. The meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping focused on Taiwan. China warned of potential conflict over the island.

14 May 2026 5:55 pm
PBKS vs MI Weather Update of Dharamsala: Will rain play a spoilsport in crucial Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians IPL 2026 clash?

PBKS vs MI Pitch Report: Punjab Kings face Mumbai Indians under pressure after four consecutive losses. A washout would grant both teams a point, potentially keeping PBKS in the Top 4 temporarily. Rain threatens the crucial Dharamsala clash, with a 55-60% chance of precipitation impacting the game.

14 May 2026 5:53 pm
Trump invites Chinese President to White House, Xi calls for ew chapter in ties

US President Donald Trump extended an invitation to Chinese leader Xi Jinping for a White House summit in September. Trump praised the strong bond between the two nations during his state visit to Beijing. He noted a positive and constructive discussion with Xi. The leaders expressed a desire for continued engagement and a stable partnership.

14 May 2026 5:52 pm
What makes tires so tough has been a mystery for 100 years, scientists just found the surprising answer

Researchers at the University of South Florida have uncovered the mechanism that makes reinforced rubber exceptionally strong, solving a scientific mystery that has persisted for nearly a century. Using around 1,500 molecular simulations, the team discovered that carbon black particles prevent rubber from thinning normally when stretched, forcing the material to resist volume changes and become much tougher.

14 May 2026 5:50 pm
Mortgage rates today jump sharply: Is the hidden Treasury yield surge making 2026 home refinancing painfully expensive for Americans?

Mortgage rate today climbs as Treasury yields jump and refinance pressure returns across the US housing market. The average 30-year fixed refinance rate rose to 6.54%, while standard 30-year mortgage rates touched 6.34%. Rising bond yields, sticky inflation, and cautious Federal Reserve signals are now pushing borrowing costs higher again. Homeowners who once waited for lower mortgage refinance rates are facing a different reality in todays market.

14 May 2026 5:44 pm
Wood urges New Zealand to 'create some history' at World Cup

Chris Wood will lead New Zealand's football team at the World Cup. The squad aims to make history by securing their first-ever win. Wood, a prolific striker, expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete. The tournament begins next month. New Zealand faces Iran, Egypt, and Belgium in Group G.

14 May 2026 5:04 pm
Pakistan test fires Fatah-4 cruise missile

Pakistan has successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile. This advanced weapon system is designed for long-range precision targeting.

14 May 2026 4:57 pm
CSK name Dian Forrester as replacement for injured Jamie Overton

Chennai Super Kings have signed Dian Forrester as a replacement for injured Jamie Overton. Forrester, a South African all-rounder, joins CSK for Rs 75 lakh. He made his international debut in March 2026. CSK hopes Forrester will contribute with bat and ball as the tournament enters its crucial phase. The team is currently fifth and faces Lucknow Super Giants next.

14 May 2026 4:54 pm
Russia pounds Ukraine in heaviest wartime drone attack over two days

Russia launched its largest aerial assault over a two-day period, striking Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities with hundreds of drones and missiles. The attacks caused significant damage to infrastructure, including residential buildings, and resulted in at least 11 deaths. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy urged continued Western support for air defense.

14 May 2026 4:52 pm
Trump left JD Vance a secret 'If I Die' letter before his China trip, and the story is chilling What the aide revealed about the hidden instructions

Trump left JD Vance a secret 'If I Die' letter before his China trip, and the story is chilling as a counterterrorism official revealed that the president wrote instructions for the vice president in case he dies in office. The letter is stored in the Resolute Desk. Officials say the move reflects global security concerns and strong protocols during international travel, including the China trip and ongoing assassination threats.

14 May 2026 4:50 pm
Fit certificate a must: Bengal govt issues new guidelines for animal slaughter

The West Bengal government has introduced new rules for animal slaughter. Animals must now have a 'fit certificate' from authorities before being slaughtered. Slaughter in public places is strictly forbidden. These guidelines follow court orders and existing laws. Violators face penalties including imprisonment or fines. The aim is to ensure legal compliance and prevent inhumane practices.

14 May 2026 4:49 pm
Online classes back? After work-from-home push, Delhi CMs latest announcement for schools and colleges

The Delhi government has announced a set of new measures aimed at saving fuel and reducing unnecessary expenses, following Prime Minister Narendra Modis call for fuel conservation and mindful spending. As part of the initiative, the government plans to increase the use of online meetings and encourage virtual academic sessions in colleges and universities wherever possible.

14 May 2026 4:48 pm
Dileep Raj death: How a smartwatch cost the Kannada actor his life

Kannada actor Dileep Raj died after a suspected cardiac arrest, with reports suggesting a smartwatch reading may have delayed his seeking medical help. This incident highlights concerns about over-reliance on wearable technology for health reassurance, as experts emphasize that smartwatches are not substitutes for professional medical evaluation and urgent care should always be prioritized for concerning symptoms.

14 May 2026 4:43 pm
Delhi WFH advisory explained: Delhi govt asks private offices, IT firms to adopt 2 days work from home amid fuel-saving push

Delhi WFH advisory explained: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced a wide-ranging fuel-saving and cost-cutting campaign under Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdaan, urging private offices, IT companies, educational institutions and businesses to reduce travel and fuel use. The Delhi government will implement work from home for two days a week in government offices and advise private firms to follow the same model.

14 May 2026 4:35 pm
My Life with the Walter Boys Season 4 Expected release window: Will Jackie finally be with Cole or will she choose Alex?

Netflix is officially returning to Silver Falls. During the streamers 2026 Upfronts presentation in New York City, the company announced that My Life with the Walter Boys has been renewed for a fourth season, even though Season 3 has yet to premiere.

14 May 2026 4:25 pm
Centre allocates Rs 4,900 crore to Arunachal Pradesh under Pride of Hills scheme

Arunachal Pradesh receives a significant boost with Rs 4,900 crore from the Centre's new 'Pride of Hills' initiative. This funding targets critical infrastructure and development gaps in the state. Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed gratitude for the allocation. The initiative aims to improve connectivity and foster long-term economic growth in remote areas.

14 May 2026 4:22 pm
HFCL to invest Rs 230 crore to set up defence manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh

Telecom gear maker HFCL will invest Rs 230 crore to build a new defence manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The plant will produce Multi-Mode Hand Grenades and similar products. This facility is expected to be operational by December 2027. The investment will be funded through internal accruals, debt and convertible warrants.

14 May 2026 4:02 pm
Proposal for posthumous Padma Vibhushan to Olympian Khashaba Jadhav sent to Centre: Maharashtra govt

The Maharashtra government has informed the Bombay High Court about a proposal for the posthumous Padma Vibhushan award for wrestler Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav. Jadhav was India's first individual Olympic medalist. The government will also submit a fresh proposal for the Padma Awards 2027. The court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by Jadhav's son's foundation.

14 May 2026 3:49 pm
CBI produces five NEET paper leak accused before Delhi court

The CBI has presented five individuals arrested in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case to a Delhi court. These accused were apprehended from various states, including Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Their alleged involvement in the exam leak necessitated their custodial interrogation. The NEET (UG) 2026 exam was previously cancelled due to paper leak allegations.

14 May 2026 3:47 pm
Fortnite status: When will the servers be back up? Epic Games massive v40.40 update leaves millions waiting as new chapter 7 features roll out

Fortnite requires server downtime during major patches because Epic Games deploys backend system updates, gameplay changes and new content simultaneously. The update is expected to include gameplay balancing, new map changes, storyline developments and possible Overwatch crossover content.

14 May 2026 3:45 pm
Quote of the day by Henry Ford: Two classes of people lose money; those who are too weak and... - Timeless lesson on two major causes of failure by one of the greatest American industrialist

Henry Ford, a renowned industrialist, left behind timeless wisdom. His words warn against two paths to ruin: being too weak to protect gains or winning money through deceit. Both ultimately lead to loss. Ford stressed that true success involves more than just wealth. It requires wisdom, discipline, and strong moral values.

14 May 2026 3:43 pm
Uttar Pradesh Rain News: Yellow alert in Ghaziabad, Noida; more rainfall likely in Lucknow, Kanpur as 104 killed due to thunderstorms, strong winds

Rain in Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh braces for more heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds as the IMD issues orange alerts for Lucknow and Kanpur, with specific districts facing severe weather. Tragically, 104 lives were lost due to recent storms, prompting CM Yogi Adityanath to order immediate relief and compensation for affected families and livestock. New advanced weather forecasting systems have also been launched.

14 May 2026 3:39 pm
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu to lay foundation for AMCA infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu will lay foundation stone for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme infrastructure at Sri Sathya Sai district in Andhra Pradesh. Several defence, aerospace, and drone manufacturing projects will also launch. This positions Andhra Pradesh as a key hub for these industries.

14 May 2026 3:39 pm
China's Xi lauds 'new positioning' in ties with US

In a significant pivot in international relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump have unveiled a fresh strategy for their nations' partnership that prioritises collaboration while recognising necessary competition. This initiative aims to steer their diplomacy over the coming three years, fostering stability by keeping differences within bounds.

14 May 2026 3:31 pm
Bade logon ko bachaya jata hai: NEET-UG accused alleges big people protected in paper leak case

An accused in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case alleged that influential individuals are being protected while smaller players face action. The CBI arrested five individuals across three states, suspecting a multi-state network involving coaching institutes, courier services, and social media. Investigations are focusing on digital records and financial trails to uncover larger operators.

14 May 2026 3:27 pm
US-China Summit: Semiconductors, rare earths to dominate Trump-Xi talks

Strategic supply chains spanning semiconductors, rare earth minerals, aerospace and agricultural trade are expected to dominate bilateral discussions between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the ongoing US-China summit, according to a report by Rubix Data Sciences.

14 May 2026 3:26 pm
Delhi HC to initiate contempt action over defamatory content against judge in excise policy case

The Delhi High Court will start contempt proceedings. This action follows the circulation of extremely defamatory content against Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. The judge made this announcement in open court. The content is linked to the Delhi excise policy case. Justice Sharma stated she cannot remain silent. A detailed order will be passed later today.

14 May 2026 3:25 pm
Uttar Pradesh viral video: Man flung several feet into the air during thunderstorm. Watch

Powerful thunderstorms swept across Uttar Pradesh, causing widespread destruction. At least 89 people died in the severe weather. Prayagraj, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Fatehpur, and Mirzapur were among the worst-hit districts. Homes were damaged, trees uprooted, and livestock perished. Authorities are assessing the damage and providing assistance to affected families.

14 May 2026 2:45 pm
Is Shehnaaz Gill dating RCB crickter Devdutt Padikkal? Ex-Big Boss fame posts video of IPL match

Actress Shehnaaz Gill's presence at an IPL match has ignited dating rumors with RCB batter Devdutt Padikkal. Viral videos of her cheering for the team led fans to speculate about a personal connection, despite neither party confirming the rumors. The discussion intensified as social media users noted they don't follow each other on Instagram.

14 May 2026 2:42 pm
NEET paper leak: Plea in SC seeks NTA revamp or replacement, interim monitoring panel

A medical body has urged the Supreme Court to overhaul the National Testing Agency (NTA) due to recurring NEET-UG paper leaks, calling it a direct assault on students' fundamental rights. The plea seeks a robust, autonomous system and a high-powered committee to ensure exam integrity, highlighting systemic failures and outdated security measures that jeopardize the future of over 22.

14 May 2026 2:40 pm
Dearness allowance for Tamil Nadu govt employees, teachers hiked by 2%

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on Wednesday announced a 2 per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and teachers, providing a salary boost to lakhs of beneficiaries across the state. The revised allowance is expected to increase the financial burden on the state exchequer but comes as relief for employees amid rising living costs.

14 May 2026 2:31 pm
Kerala Lottery Karunya Plus KN-623 Result Out Today (14-05-2026); 1 Crore prize winning number and full list here

Kerala lottery results today: Kerala State Lottery Karunya Plus KN-623 results for Thursday, 14 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.

14 May 2026 2:30 pm
Safer pilgrimage, dedicated lanes for warkaris in Maharashtra: Nitin Gadkari

Union minister Nitin Gadkari announced significant progress on the Pandharpur pilgrimage route. Nearly 80 percent of the work is complete, with remaining stretches to be finished in four to six months. Dedicated lanes and Foot Over Bridges will enhance pilgrim safety. Major infrastructure projects, including the Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi Marg and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi Marg, are nearing completion.

14 May 2026 1:52 pm
Junior analyst leaves Ohio logistics firm, then gets hit with $3,000 bill for attending zoom seminar teaching basic excel shortcuts: an exit fee for quitting

An Ohio junior analyst says his former employer sent him a $3,000 training repayment bill after he quit for a better job, claiming a Zoom seminar teaching basic Excel shortcuts counted as specialized training. The viral Reddit post has sparked debate over controversial workplace clawback agreements and whether companies are using them as exit fees for quitting.

14 May 2026 1:52 pm
Wholesale inflation hits 42-month high of 8.3% in April

India's wholesale inflation reached an 8.3% peak in April, a 42-month high. Rising fuel, power, and crude oil prices fueled this surge. Experts predict inflation may climb further in May. Disruptions in West Asia and potential El Nino effects are key concerns. Consumers are shielded from retail fuel price hikes, but commercial LPG costs increased.

14 May 2026 1:51 pm
Supreme Court urges truce in Kapur family trust feud, asks parties not to disrupt mediation

The Supreme Court has called for calm in the Kapur family trust dispute. The court urged Rani Kapur and Priya Kapur to avoid actions that could harm ongoing mediation. An amicable settlement is seen as beneficial for all parties involved. Failure to resolve the matter could lead to a lengthy legal battle over the family's assets and trust control.

14 May 2026 1:40 pm
An ancient warning hangs over the Trump-Xi summit bonhomie

Chinese President Xi Jinping invoked the Thucydides trap at his summit with US President Donald Trump, highlighting the risk of war between a rising and established superpower. The meeting aimed to manage escalating tensions amid trade disputes, Taiwan's status, and technological rivalry, acknowledging that competition must be controlled to avoid conflict.

14 May 2026 1:38 pm
India condemns attack on Indian-flagged ship off Oman coast, says crew safe

India has strongly condemned an attack on an Indian-flagged ship near Oman. The nation stated that targeting civilian vessels is unacceptable. All Indian crew members on board are reported safe. India urged all parties to avoid actions that endanger civilian mariners or disrupt maritime trade. This incident highlights growing security worries in vital regional shipping lanes.

14 May 2026 1:33 pm
Major explosion erupts at firecracker factory in Madhya Pradesh; casualties feared

An explosion rocked an alleged illegal firecracker factory in Dewas district, Madhya Pradesh, on Thursday, with multiple casualties feared. Relief and rescue operations are underway, and injured individuals have been hospitalized. Senior officials are at the scene, though the exact nature of the factory's production remains unconfirmed.

14 May 2026 1:30 pm
'It makes companies seem strong...': As LinkedIn announces layoffs, co-founder warns tech firms may be using AI as excuse for job cuts

Microsoft LinkedIn layoffs: LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, has announced layoffs impacting engineering, marketing, and other teams, with co-founder Reid Hoffman urging caution against attributing all tech job cuts solely to AI. He suggests that overhiring during the pandemic years is a significant, often overlooked, factor driving these reductions. The company aims to operate more profitably by focusing on key priorities and infrastructure investments.

14 May 2026 1:26 pm
7 low-maintenance flowering plants perfect for balconies

Transform your Indian balcony with seven flowering plants that thrive on minimal care. From the sun-loving Desert Rose to the ever-faithful Sadabahar, this guide highlights the most resilient varieties that can withstand the Indian heat, providing year-round color without the need for constant watering or expert gardening skills.

14 May 2026 1:22 pm
Three IPL captains likely to lose leadership roles after disastrous campaigns

Disastrous IPL campaigns are putting three captains in the hot seat, with sources indicating potential job losses at season's end. Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, and Rishabh Pant have struggled to lead their teams to playoff contention for two consecutive seasons. Will leadership changes be on the horizon for these franchises?

14 May 2026 1:06 pm
Nagaland Lottery Sambad Result Out today 14 May 2026; Check Dear Star thursday weekly lottery winner for Rs 1 cr prize

Nagaland lottery Sambad result today (14 May 2026): Nagaland State Lottery Sambad Dear Star Thursday Weekly draw results for 14 May 2026 have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 Crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.

14 May 2026 1:05 pm
Shakira, Madonna and BTS to headline first-ever FIFA World Cup halftime show

Global music stars Shakira, Madonna and K-pop group BTS will headline the first-ever halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, with proceeds supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund aimed at expanding access to education and football for children worldwide

14 May 2026 1:03 pm