The Economic Times

RCB vs DC Women WPL Final predicted playing 11: Smriti Mandhanas RCB eyes a second title, while Jemimahs DC seeks their maiden trophy in Vadodara.

Did You Know: Water is made up of HO molecules that are polar, meaning they have a slightly positive side and a slightly negative side. This polarity creates strong cohesion, causing water molecules to attract one another and stick closely together.

Prime Minister Modi stated that India's recent trade agreements are drawing significant global economic attention. Major economies are keen to enhance commercial ties with India. Agreements with the European Union and the United States have boosted international confidence in India's economic trajectory. The world is welcoming these new trade deals.

The recent US-India trade agreement sparked a wave of online derision directed at Pakistan, as India was offered terms that overshadowed Pakistan's expectations. While Pakistan aimed to gain traction with President Trump, their approach yielded little compared to India's assertive negotiations. The backlash on social media revealed a collective disappointment among users, fueling a conversation about self-reflection within Pakistan.

XRP price crash today: XRP has fallen to multi-month lows, mirroring a wider crypto market downturn. Analysts cite derivative selling and global economic uncertainty as key drivers. Leverage has exited the market, indicating a structural reset rather than panic. Investors watch crucial support levels, with a potential slide towards $1 if current zones fail.

Meta Platforms Inc. (META) shares plummeted 3.28% to $668.99 on February 5, 2026. The sell-off centers on a staggering $115 billion to $135 billion capital expenditure (capex) forecast for 2026. This aggressive AI infrastructure pivot has investors fearing rapid margin compression. Metas operating margin already dipped to 41% from 48% last year. While revenue surged 24% to $59.89 billion, the high cost of Personal Superintelligence is spooking Wall Street.

Many Americans claim Social Security early and later regret it because payments are lower. The Social Security Administration allows limited ways to undo or pause benefits. These options have strict time rules, repayment needs, and effects on family payments. Knowing when to withdraw or suspend benefits can help retirees increase future monthly income and avoid costly mistakes.

Ukraine's President Zelenskyy revealed 55,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died in the ongoing war. Meanwhile, U.S.-brokered talks between Russia and Ukraine officials in Abu Dhabi were called productive. The discussions led to a prisoner exchange, the first in five months. Civilian casualties also saw an increase last year. Russia continues its drone and missile attacks on Ukraine.

Certain botanical oils like Rosemary, Pumpkin Seed, and Castor oil are proving to be powerful allies in the fight against thinning hair. By blocking DHT and stimulating blood circulation, these natural remedies provide a science-backed way to nourish follicles and support hair regrowth for a thicker, healthier mane in 2026.

New Delhi has set a minimum import price of Rs 100 per umbrella. This move aims to boost local umbrella production. Imports below this price are now restricted. This policy change affects finished umbrellas. However, certain importers like those with Advance Authorisations are exempt.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has denied reports of a meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated there was no basis for the claims. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar described his recent US visit as productive.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, mother of NBC Today anchor Savannah Guthrie, has been reported missing from her Arizona residence. She was last seen Saturday night, and officials suspect she may have been taken during the night. President Donald Trump has stepped in, pledging all federal law enforcement resources to support the local investigation.

India boasts surreal landscapes that defy belief, from the salt-cracked Great Rann of Kutch to the ancient living root bridges of Meghalaya. This story explores seven destinationsincluding gravity-defying hills and floating islandsthat offer travelers an otherworldly experience in 2026, proving that natures most unreal wonders are right here.

Why is silver price falling by 9.3% and will it drop below $79.88 or bounce back? Silver prices fell sharply after hitting record highs last week. Industrial demand weakened at higher levels. The dollar strengthened. Global markets sold off. Gold, platinum, and palladium prices also declined amid easing geopolitical tensions.

The Bombay High Court has denied gangster Abu Salem's request for parole. Salem sought to visit his native place in Uttar Pradesh to mourn his brother's death. His lawyer stated Salem could not afford the required police escort charges. The court ruled he must pay the mandatory fees if he wishes to go on parole.

US India Trade Deal: India and the United States are close to finalizing a historic trade agreement. Negotiations are in their final stages. This deal marks a new era for bilateral ties. It promises significant opportunities in trade, investment, and strategic cooperation. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the progress after meetings in Washington DC. The agreement is expected to be completed very soon.

West Bengal's economy has expanded significantly over the last decade. The budget outlay has reached a record high of over Rs 4 lakh crore. State tax collection has risen substantially, and nominal Gross State Domestic Product is projected to grow. Capital expenditure has seen a massive increase, with a focus on asset creation.

West Bengal's government has boosted allowances for women and incomes for civic volunteers, asha, and anganwadi workers. These hikes come before the upcoming assembly elections. The Lakshmir Bhandar scheme sees a Rs 500 monthly increase for women. Other workers will receive a Rs 1000 raise.

The Congress party will contest all 294 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections on its own. This decision was finalized after a meeting of top party leaders and West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee representatives. The party aims to strengthen its position by contesting independently. Past alliances have reportedly demotivated grassroots workers. The elections are expected in April-May.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards have seized two oil tankers in Gulf waters. The vessels were reportedly smuggling fuel. Over one million litres of fuel were found on board. Fifteen foreign crew members have been referred to the judiciary. The incident occurred near Iran's Farsi island. This is the latest in a series of similar seizures in the region.

Mrunal Thakur and Dhanush's marriage rumors have been fueled up again. Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal's 'Do Deewane Seher Mein' promotional event is going viral. . Siddhants Chennai connection jokes left Mrunal blushing, further fueling rumors of her relationship with Dhanush. Their modern love story film is set to hit theaters on February 20, 2026.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday painted a picture of Indias economic trajectory, noting that the nation was at the 6th position during the time of independence, then we were pushed down to 11, and today we are soaring at the 3rd spot.

India's logistics sector requires 47 lakh new workers by 2030. This demand stems from growth in freight, warehousing, and transportation. Major skilling reforms and digital workforce creation are essential to meet this need. The Logistics Sector Skill Council is partnering with LogiMAT India to bridge this talent gap. The industry is also focusing on increasing women's participation.

RBI MPC Meet Feb 2026 Date & time: The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee is meeting to decide on interest rates. Markets, borrowers, and investors are watching closely. The decision on the repo rate is expected on February 6, 2026. Analysts anticipate the repo rate will remain unchanged at 5.25%.

Why is gold price down again and will it go below $4,917 or make a comeback? Gold prices fell with silver as the dollar strengthened. Market selling followed easing global tensions, tech stock pressure, and lower demand for precious metals.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unveiled a pro-people interim budget. She stated the budget prioritizes citizens' welfare and demonstrates fiscal discipline. Banerjee contrasted it with the Union Budget, calling it directionless. The state government allocated funds focusing on women, youth, workers, and vulnerable sections. This budget aims to balance welfare spending with financial prudence.

Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD has vocally contested the methods employed by the ruling NDA, claiming they funneled a staggering Rs 40,000 crore to sabotage the Mahagathbandhan in the latest Bihar assembly elections. He raised alarms over a democracy compromised by threats and coercion.

Word of the Day: In journalistic reporting, where clarity and neutrality are paramount, desuetude helps distinguish between repeal, reform, and neglect, three outcomes often conflated in public discourse.

Delhi is bringing back double-decker buses this month for a special tourism service. These electric buses will connect major attractions like Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya and the National War Memorial. The service aims to offer visitors a smoother sightseeing experience. Evening tours are also planned. This initiative marks a return of the iconic buses to the city's roads.

Paulo Coelho's timeless quote, 'Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience,' remains vital in today's world. It encourages embracing action over overthinking and highlights that true growth and confidence stem from real-world experiences, learning from both successes and failures.

The Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal government to pay dearness allowance to its employees. This payment covers the period from 2008 to 2019. The court has directed the state to pay 25 percent of the outstanding DA by March 6. A committee will determine the total amount and payment schedule.

800 people go missing in Delhi: The data released by the Delhi Police shows that nearly 2,000 people go missing every month in the national capital. Since 2016, the figure has hovered around 23,000 to 24,000 a year, showing no significant surge. The data comes at a time when concerns have been raised amid reports of 800 people missing in Delhi in just fifteen days of 2026.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla revealed he advised Prime Minister Narendra Modi to stay out of the House. This decision followed unexpected and unprecedented conduct by Congress members during Wednesday's proceedings. Birla stated he had information about Congress MPs planning to approach the Prime Minister in an unexpected manner. He personally witnessed the developments.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced a one-man committee to address alleged ghee adulteration in Tirupati laddus. A Special Investigation Team report confirmed the use of palmolein oil and chemicals. Naidu described the adulteration as a grave offense. He stated that a previous report in 2022 also indicated adulteration.

Today's thought of the day reflects on Elon Musks recent tweet about how money cant buy happiness. The piece explores the meaning behind his words, the global reaction they sparked, and what the idea teaches us about purpose, fulfilment and real-world happiness.

Lunar New Year 2026: Those born under the Ox are among the zodiac signs facing a Tai Sui clash in the Year of the Horse 2026, prompting increased attention to traditional remedies and more cautious planning.

Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi met with West Bengal Congress leaders. This comes as the state prepares for assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party also held a meeting with its West Bengal MPs. BJP National President Nitin Nabin offered guidance. The Trinamool Congress has not initiated alliance talks. Political parties are strategizing for the upcoming high-voltage contest.

Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in rare, back-to-back calls with Russia's Putin and US President Trump, signaling Beijing's global positioning. Discussions covered trade, Ukraine, and Iran, with China committing to increased US soybean purchases. Xi also cautioned the US on arms sales to Taiwan, while strengthening ties with Russia against the West.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated her government will provide land for border fencing. However, she insisted the central government must first withdraw its decision to expand the Border Security Force's jurisdiction.

India is open to sourcing crude oil from Venezuela and other nations. This decision hinges on commercial viability. Venezuela has been a long-term energy partner for India. Imports were halted in 2019-20 but resumed in 2023-24. Sanctions led to a subsequent halt. Indian public sector undertakings maintain partnerships in Venezuela. India assesses all crude availability on commercial grounds.

Tirupati has launched India's first AI-powered temple governance model. The Integrated Command Control Center enhances pilgrim comfort and safety. Real-time analytics and operational intelligence streamline darshan, queue, and accommodation management. This initiative reduces waiting times and improves security.

Marie Curie, a pioneering physicist and two-time Nobel laureate, believed that building a better world starts with individual self-improvement. She emphasized that personal growth, coupled with a shared responsibility to humanity, is crucial. Individuals should focus their efforts where they can be most useful, balancing personal development with practical contributions to society.

DSSSB is set to release admit cards for the Primary Assistant Teacher (PRT) exam, a computer-based test scheduled for February and March 2026. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website by entering their application number and date of birth. The exam will feature 200 objective questions across various subjects.

Bihar Police has launched a statewide crackdown on vulgar and double-meaning songs, deeming them a significant social problem impacting women's safety and children's development. Ahead of Holi, district police units are instructed to conduct a special campaign, booking individuals playing such songs in public spaces and on transport.

Quote of the day by Anne Frank: Anne Frank's profound quote, What is done cannot be undone, but one can prevent it happening again, emphasizes the power of reflection and personal responsibility. This timeless wisdom encourages learning from mistakes to foster growth and avoid repeating errors, offering guidance for a more mindful and intentional life.

The University of Calicut has announced new undergraduate and postgraduate results. Students can now check their scorecards online. Recent declarations include Third Semester BCom Professional and BCom, BBA, and BCom Honours supplementary and improvement results. Earlier, fifth semester results for various UG and PG programs were also published. Access is available via the official university results portal using registration numbers.