The Economic Times

Three NASA astronauts, including Anil Menon, participated in the US midterm elections from the International Space Station. Menon, along with fellow astronauts Luke Delaney and Jessica Watkins, cast their ballots securely from orbit. The ballots were sent via NASA's encrypted Near Space Network to ensure integrity. Menon filled out his electronic ballot for Harris County in Texas, marking a unique voting experience.

Crown New Materials Technology is provider of adhesive materials to Apple, Tesla, BYD. During the first day's trading, Crown New Materials Technology made an astronomical gains of 787 per cent.

Gurugram's administration has announced a ban on construction and demolition activities to combat rising air pollution. This ban will be effective from November 5 to 20 and affects various projects. Both government and private offices are allowed 50 percent of staff to work physically. Exemptions include essential services and infrastructure projects related to railways, metro, and hospitals.

Donald Trump congratulated Republican candidate Tony Ada on winning the governor's race in Guam. This win is noteworthy as Guam is traditionally a Democratic territory. Trump asserted that this victory might indicate future Republican successes in upcoming midterm elections. Ada faced Democrat Therese Terlaje in the November 3 election for governor. Additionally, Republicans reportedly secured a majority in Guam's Senate following the same election.

Texas voting results by county: Texas voters are heading to the polls in a closely watched Senate race between Democrat James Talarico and Republican Ken Paxton. With Democrats seeking their first statewide election victory since 1994, heres when Texas voting results are expected and how to check the latest updates.

Securities and Exchange Board of India has imposed a total penalty of Rs 40 lakh on four entities. This penalty includes fines on Woodstock Broking and Marfatia Stock Broking for front-running trades. The investigation spanned from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, involving these entities. Evidence indicated that brokers facilitated these trades by providing necessary infrastructure and assistance.

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank experienced a loss of Rs 70 crore in the second quarter, marking six consecutive quarters of decline. The lenders operating profit was Rs 85 crore, but provisions of Rs 166 crore led to the net loss. Its gross non-performing asset ratio improved slightly, standing at 5.96% at the end of September. The bank's gross loan portfolio saw a year-on-year growth of 7.5%, reaching Rs 20,062 crore.

An office assistant of Punjab National Bank in Greater Noida and a private individual have been arrested for alleged fraud. The fraudulent activity involved Rs 10.24 crore in unauthorized withdrawals from multiple customer accounts. Punjab National Bank's investigation began after a customer reported suspicious debit transactions in her account. The accused allegedly carried out the transactions over three years using compromised banking credentials.

State Bank of India reported a 14% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY27 net profit to Rs 23,038 crore, driven by 18% loan growth, higher net interest income, lower deposit costs and reduced loan loss provisions.

Indian equities rallied nearly 2%, with Sensex gaining 1,225 points and Nifty rising 370 points. Falling crude prices, renewed FII buying, resilient earnings and expectations of LTCG tax changes boosted sentiment, adding nearly Rs 4 lakh crore to market capitalisation.

Kotak Mahindra Bank has received approval for the acquisition of Deutsche Bank's retail and wealth management business. The acquisition will take place on a slump sale basis from Deutsche Bank's branches in India. This business includes services such as deposits, loans, investments, insurance, and foreign exchange products. KKR-backed Sapphire US Holdco will also subscribe to securities of Gentari Renewables India, which specializes in renewable energy.

Multi Commodity Exchange of India reported a 130% year-on-year jump in Q2FY26 consolidated net profit to Rs 454.57 crore, while revenue surged 114%. EBITDA rose 151%, margins expanded and shares touched a fresh 52-week high.

Motilal Oswal Financial Services announced major leadership changes across alternatives, retail broking and private wealth businesses. The reshuffle coincides with strong Q2 performance, with operating PAT rising 29% year-on-year to Rs 718 crore.

Speaking exclusively to following the bank's Q2 FY27 financial results presentation, Setty expressed confidence in sustaining credit growth despite concerns over rising borrowing costs and competition for deposits.

Bata India Ltd achieved a 30.4% increase in net profit for the September quarter of FY27. Revenue from operations also rose by 7.54% to Rs 861.78 crore compared to the previous year. The company noted significant growth in profit after tax, driven by higher average selling prices. Bata India aims to maintain this growth momentum despite rising input costs and wage revisions. Shares of Bata India Ltd increased by 1.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Tuesday approved Kotak Mahindra Bank Limiteds proposed acquisition of Deutsche Bank AG's retail banking, private banking and wealth management businesses in India.The proposed transaction also includes referral arrangements between the parties through their affiliates, it said in a release.Earlier in June this year, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Deutsche Bank AG entered into a definitive agreement for acquisition, comprising approximately Rs 29,000 crore (E

On November 3, midterm elections faced significant disruption due to severe storms and flash floods across the United States. In Florida, polling places were forced to relocate because of flooding, while Oklahoma experienced tornado destruction. Although conditions in Texas improved after a cold front, some regions encountered persistent issues. Colorado also struggled with logistical challenges, raising questions about statewide access to polling.

CD Tenerife striker Jess de Miguel dies at 30 after collision with Andorra goalkeeper: CD Tenerife player Jess de Miguel collided with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jess Owono during a match on November 2. This incident occurred in the seventh minute of stoppage time, when both players were trying to play the ball. De Miguel was taken to hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest, but his condition worsened overnight.

US midterm elections 2026: These districts are important because their results are expected during the first few hours of election night. Indiana and Kentucky will begin reporting results during the 6 pm Eastern Time hour, followed by several Florida congressional races during the 7 pm Eastern Time hour. These districts could also signal a Democratic wave before midnight.

Millions of Americans are expected to vote on Election Day amid severe weather conditions nationwide. Florida has been hit hard by heavy rains, causing floodwaters and forcing polling relocations. Oklahoma experienced tornado damage, while other states like Texas and Mississippi are also at risk of storms. Research indicates that bad weather can decrease voter turnout, particularly among younger and occasional voters.

Midterm elections vs presidential elections: Americans will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, but they will not vote for president. The midterm elections will decide control of the House and part of the Senate, along with dozens of governorships and other state and local offices. Heres how midterms differ from presidential elections.

The NITI Aayogs India Science and Technology (S&T) Scoreboard, launched on Tuesday, provides a comprehensive picture of Indias science and technology ecosystem through key indicators, including research and development expenditure, scientific publications, citations, patent applications and technological innovation.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for tea garden workers. The government is considering increasing rice allocation from 35 kg to 50 kg for these workers. Adhikari emphasized the commitment to reopen closed tea gardens for better employment opportunities. He also mentioned upcoming employment benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana for eligible workers.

Happiest Minds Technologies has seen a 15.12% rise in consolidated net profit for the September quarter FY27. Revenue from operations also increased by 12.5% compared to the previous year. The company announced an interim dividend of Rs 3.05 per equity share for the 2026-27 fiscal year. An exceptional charge was included in the quarter's results due to a proposed merger with ITC Infotech.

Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd has posted a remarkable consolidated net profit of Rs 325.06 crore for the September quarter, reflecting substantial growth. Revenue surged from Rs 2,269.82 crore to Rs 2,820.47 crore during this period, with international operations increasing by 34 per cent. Additionally, domestic revenue witnessed an 11.1 per cent rise, as company leaders expressed confidence in sustaining this positive trend through the latter half of FY27.

Nexus Select Trust has announced an 8% increase in its net operating income for the second quarter. The company reported a distribution of Rs 359 crore, reflecting growth in distribution per unit. Nexus Select Trust has cumulatively distributed over Rs 4,400 crore to its unitholders since its listing. The company marks its strategic entry into Northeast India with plans for a mall and hotel in Guwahati.

V-Mart Retail reported a significant net loss of Rs 16.34 crore for the September quarter of FY27, a rise from Rs 8.87 crore reported in the same quarter of FY26. Revenue from operations saw an upward trend, increasing by 18 percent year-on-year to Rs 952.99 crore. However, total expenses surged by 22 percent, totaling Rs 976.37 crore. For the first half of FY27, total income reached Rs 2,047.

Minda Corporation Ltd has reported a significant 68.2% year-on-year increase in consolidated net profit for Q2. Revenue from operations also increased by 42.6% year-on-year, reaching Rs 2,189 crore. The company's Chairman highlighted continued progress in their growth strategy across key vehicle segments. Electric vehicle-related products contributed around 35% of new order wins during this quarter. Minda plans to enhance its product offerings and invest in R&D and manufacturing capabilities.

NSE Q2 Results: The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) reported a 23% year-on-year (YoY) increase in its consolidated profit after tax (PAT) to Rs 2,578 crore in the second quarter of FY27 (Q2FY27), compared with Rs 2,098 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal year (Q2FY26).

Are banks and the stock market open on Election Day 2026? Check November 3 federal holiday status, NYSE and Nasdaq trading schedules, and how to confirm your local bank branchs opening hours. Banks and financial markets are expected to follow their regular schedules on Election Day, November 3, 2026. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will remain open for usual trading hours. USPS, UPS, and FedEx are likely to maintain standard delivery operations on that day.

Six BSE 200 stocks, including Bosch, Coforge, Divi's Laboratories, Eternal, Indian Hotels and Zydus Lifesciences, touched fresh 52-week highs as the Sensex rallied 1,225 points, reflecting renewed market momentum and buying interest.

US midterm election results live: Find out how to watch the 2026 US midterm election results live on CBS News, Fox News, ABC and C-SPAN. Check election-night coverage timings, TV schedules and streaming options, along with when polls close and results are expected to come in as Americans vote in key House and Senate races.

A long-term study by researchers at Cornell University revealed that deer populations are affecting eastern forests significantly. These deer have decreased the number of woody plants by half in open plots over 18 years. In contrast, fenced plots, which excluded deer, retained a sustainable number of trees. Furthermore, deer have caused an increase in seed diversity, resulting in a more varied plant community.

In the US, voter identification rules differ markedly state by state. Some states mandate photo identification, while others accept non-photo or even no ID at all. First-time voters should check specific ID requirements to verify their identity. Preparing in advance will likely enhance their voting experience on November 3.

The Supreme Court has expressed disappointment regarding the lack of responses from 23 states and Union Territories. These regions have not provided the requested information about eliminating jail discrimination. The apex court previously deemed caste-based discrimination unconstitutional in jail regulations. A final opportunity has been given to these states to reply, with a hearing scheduled for January 13. The court has indicated potential consequences if responses are not received.

Rachel Apa, 24, died after collapsing in Central Park during the New York City Marathon. Her father attributed her death to rhabdomyolysis. Here is what happened, her background and fundraising mission, and what medical authorities say about the conditions symptoms, risks and treatment.

Indian markets extended gains as the Sensex surged 1,225 points and Nifty climbed 370 points. Falling crude prices, softer US Treasury yields and FII buying boosted sentiment, with FMCG and realty stocks leading the broad-based rally.

The insurance sector grapples with pressing issues like mis-selling and customer complaints, which hinder the efficacy of policies. However, digital platforms offer improved transparency, enabling consumers to make well-informed choices about their coverage options. By comparing policies, customers not only save on premiums but also gain better insights into their coverage. Additionally, digital channels simplify grievance resolution, fostering easier interactions with insurers.

Royal Enfield Continental GT 750 unveiled: Royal Enfield has unveiled the Continental GT 750 at EICMA 2026, featuring a new 743cc parallel-twin engine shared with the Himalayan 750. The cafe racer gets twin exhausts, dual front disc brakes, updated suspension and a new instrument cluster. The motorcycle is expected to launch in India in 2027.

In India, more than 40 percent of sexual harassment incidents occur outside typical workspaces, according to research. Alarmingly, many employees lack knowledge of their company's Prevention of Sexual Harassment policies. Complaints point to a pervasive hostile work environment, fueled by multiple harassment forms. Additionally, there's growing anxiety about confidentiality in addressing these issues, underlining the persistent challenges in ensuring a safe workplace against harassment.

Three burglars allegedly broke into a Kolkata businessman's home hours after his wife shared a picture wearing a Rs 5 lakh birthday necklace on social media. They spent around 50 minutes ransacking the empty house, using birthday cake to cover CCTV cameras and stealing cash, jewellery and imported liquor worth Rs 9 lakh.

In Utah, a groundbreaking road restoration initiative is underway on US Route 50, employing cold in-place recycling. This innovative method conserves 90% of existing materials, yielding estimated savings of $5 million. Additionally, it notably cuts down greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. While more suited for low-traffic routes, UDOT's future plans for I-70 reflect a commitment to eco-friendly road management.

Foreign portfolio investors infused $2.29 billion into Indian equities over 10 days, signalling improving sentiment. Strong corporate earnings, attractive valuations and potential LTCG tax relief could revive foreign inflows, while crude oil prices remain a key risk.

The Bombay High Court expressed discontent over the removal of Dia Mirza's eco-friendly Diwali campaign video. Political objections led to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's decision to delete the clip. The court emphasized the need for a secular approach in environmental awareness efforts. Justice Gokhale criticized local politicians for not advocating for environmental issues effectively.

Indian companies increasing R&D spending outperformed the NSE 500 TRI over five years, delivering 23.5% average annualised returns. Businesses combining strong research growth with higher R&D intensity achieved 32.5%, highlighting innovation's growing importance for investors.

A recent survey indicates that 72 percent of Indian holiday shoppers prefer brands that provide personalized experiences. Consumers are increasingly seeking brands that demonstrate understanding of their preferences and offer seamless engagement. The survey found that 68 percent of respondents favor brands with an omnichannel presence for better communication. Additionally, shoppers are concerned about data security, which influences their loyalty just like festive offers.

Emcure Pharmaceuticals shares rose up to 7.3% after the company reported a 29.3% year-on-year increase in Q2 FY27 profit to Rs 325.1 crore. Revenue grew 24.3%, while EBITDA rose 30.9%, supported by strong international business growth.