The Economic Times

Wall Street today saw one of the shocking losses as Google-parent Alphabet sufferedthe worst day since the company began trading at the US Stock Market.

Standalone health insurers have requested that mandatory insurance products be excluded from expense-of-management calculations. They argue that including these products creates an imbalance for their business model. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India is considering changes to EoM regulations and limits. Insurers believe that the exclusion would help provide a more equitable competitive landscape. The proposed changes aim to revise expense calculation methods and set pro

Working-capital demand from banks has increased significantly due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Higher raw-material costs and elongated shipping timelines have led to greater funding needs for corporates. Mid- and large-sized companies reported a 12-20% increase in working-capital requirements. Several private sector banks have recorded strong growth in corporate lending during the recent quarter. This momentum was driven primarily by working capital needs and refinancing efforts.

Unified Fintech Forum is developing a framework to encourage best practices among technology service providers. This initiative aims to improve cybersecurity preparedness and operational resilience in the fintech sector. Banks and fintech companies increasingly rely on third-party vendors for various services and their failures can impact regulated entities. Registration with the Forum may provide these vendors with preference during selection by financial institutions.

In August, military commissaries in the United States experienced freezer malfunctions that resulted in significant food spoilage. Investigators are exploring these incidents as possible cyberattacks, with updates being shared with French counterparts. A similar attack in France impacted hundreds of commercial freezers, causing significant financial losses. The vulnerability of refrigeration systems to cyber threats poses risks to food safety and supply chains.

Vedanta Group has announced plans for a USD 25 billion investment to expand its existing businesses significantly. The investment will focus on organic growth in key sectors including aluminium, copper, and oil. Vedanta aims to become a leading silver producer and one of the largest mining companies worldwide. The company also intends to double its renewable energy capacity in the coming years.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi recently. They discussed the financial health of Manipur and the state's revenue losses over the last three years. Singh requested enhanced central assistance and additional funding under the SASCI scheme during their meeting. The Chief Minister also highlighted the timely payment of salaries and pensions to employees by the state government.

Sagility promoter Sagility B.V. is reportedly planning a 12% stake sale worth 2,377 crore through a block deal. The healthcare IT services firm posted 22.5% revenue growth and 8.1% adjusted profit growth in Q2 FY27.

Donald Trump approval ratings ahead of US midterm elections 2026 are out. All major surveyors have showed the US President and Republican Party's chances in the polls.

Investigators are investigating recent freezer failures at US military commissaries that may have resulted from cyberattacks, raising concerns about food safety. In France, similar issues involved the deliberate alteration of refrigeration temperatures, leading to food spoilage. The US military is consulting with French authorities about these strange events as they might be connected.

Indian equities rallied over 1% on Thursday as the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, crude prices eased and institutional buying strengthened sentiment. Sensex gained 905 points, while Nifty rose 238 points, adding nearly 5 lakh crore in market value.

Indian stocks rallied after the US Federal Reserve held rates steady, easing crude prices and renewed institutional buying lifted sentiment. Technical analysts identified Adani Ports and Eternal as potential Friday trading opportunities, citing bullish momentum, breakout levels and defined targets.

Laura Brand, the spouse of Russell Brand, took the stand to reveal details about their relationship in light of his ongoing trial involving serious allegations of sexual misconduct from six women. She characterized Brand as nurturing and supportive, especially in his role as a father. Although they faced initial hurdles, their connection deepened, leading to their marriage in 2017. The trial proceeds as jurors assess the critical evidence presented.

Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the recent high Arab voter turnout was influenced by voter fraud allegations. Arab leaders, including Ahmad Tibi, accused him of inciting fear to undermine election results. Authorities confirmed ongoing investigations into election integrity, but denied systematic compromise. Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasised the need to avoid tarnishing the entire Arab community involved in the democratic process.

Patna is set to become the first municipality in Bihar to issue municipal bonds, raising Rs 200 crore for urban infrastructure. This move highlights the ongoing need for investment in India's urban infrastructure amid challenges like urban flooding and sanitation. Other cities like Kanpur are also expected to follow with their own bond issues soon. However, many municipalities still struggle with reliable revenue sources needed for debt repayment.

MTAR Technologies has received NCLT approval to merge its wholly owned subsidiaries Gee Pee Aerospace and Defence and Magnatar Aero Systems into the parent company. The restructuring aims to simplify the corporate structure, consolidate operations, reduce administrative costs and improve efficiency.

PN Vasudevan's recent announcement of his resignation as managing director of Equitas Small Finance Bank highlights pressing concerns over a conflict of interest involving his daughter's NBFC. Following the news, the bank's shares experienced a drastic dip yet managed a partial recovery before settling lower. This comes on the heels of the bank's impressive Q2 net profit growth, showcasing its strong operational health.

Punjab National Bank has taken action by suspending twelve staff members linked to unauthorized fund transfers utilizing the branch manager's password. Evidence points to a female employee collaborating with external parties in these transactions. Current estimates of the losses indicate they are below Rs 10 crore, contradicting widespread claims online.

Vedanta Power reported a turnaround in Q2 FY27, posting 83 crore profit against a 1,688 crore loss last year. Revenue rose 38% to 2,908 crore, while EBITDA surged 122%, supported by record power sales and improved operations.

Motilal Oswal reported a 29% year-on-year rise in operating profit to 718 crore in Q2 FY27, driven by asset management and wealth management growth. Assets under management expanded, while recurring revenue strengthened earnings visibility and business resilience.

The Sensex surged 905 points to close at 74,151, while four healthcare stocks hit fresh 52-week highs. Shukra Medtech, Acutaas Chemicals, Piramal Pharma and Laurus Labs recorded monthly gains of 12% to 26%.

In response to various uncertainties, nations such as the United States, the UK, and Japan are encouraging families to build emergency stockpiles. The suggested duration fluctuates from three days to two weeks. Crucial supplies include water, canned foods, medications, and hygiene essentials. Those living in colder regions or with pets may need additional provisions. These preparedness strategies are designed to help households cope during emergencies and social upheaval.

AFG vs ZIM Live Streaming: Afghanistan will face Zimbabwe in the second T20I match on October 29 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The first match ended with Afghanistan winning by 37 runs, giving them a 1-0 series lead. Zimbabwe aims to recover from this loss and even the series before the final match. Conditions in Sharjah are suitable for bowlers, especially spinners, due to the pitch's characteristics.

Chhattisgarh High Court has held that a woman working as a guest lecturer cannot be denied maternity leave salary merely because she is not a regular employee. Justice Bibhu Datta Guru directed the State authorities to decide Pushpa Jaiswal's claim for unpaid maternity salary, preferably within three months.

Indian equities rallied on Thursday, with the Sensex rising 905 points and the Nifty gaining 238 points as easing crude oil prices, the US Federal Reserves rate decision and institutional buying lifted sentiment. Adani Ports SEZ and Adani Enterprises led Nifty gainers, while Trent and Maruti Suzuki were among the top losers.

Uber has introduced encrypted trip video recording to help resolve disputes, with footage accessible only to law enforcement agencies that formally approach the company. The ride-hailing platform has also strengthened driver safety measures and expanded earning opportunities through intercity bike rides, parcel deliveries and additional services.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin a two-day visit to Gujarat, where he will inaugurate significant development projects. He will dedicate over Rs 14,000 crore worth of initiatives, including child-friendly Anganwadi Centres and agriculture infrastructure projects. Modi is also set to participate in cultural celebrations, notably Bharat Parv 2026, aimed at showcasing India's diverse heritage. Additionally, he will lay the foundation stone for the Ahmedabad Metro phases.

Anil Agarwal made a compelling case for the crucial impact of promoters in emerging markets, particularly India. He pointed out the differences when compared to developed markets, where the management often operates independently from ownership. Highlighting the changing dynamics of India's corporate sector, shaped largely by family entrepreneurs, Agarwal emphasized the requirement for professional management to enhance governance and efficiency as businesses flourish.

Godrej Consumer Products posted 13.8% profit growth to 522.92 crore and 19% revenue growth to 4,413.09 crore in Q2 FY27. Strong international performance, expanding home care brands and a 5 interim dividend supported its outlook for sustained growth.

Christine Lagarde announced her resignation from the European Central Bank, set for February 7, 2027. Her departure is earlier than planned, as her term was due to end in October 2027. This resignation allows EU leaders to appoint her successor ahead of upcoming French presidential elections. Europe faces economic challenges, including inflation and high energy costs, which the ECB must address.

Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi defended the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists in Karnataka. His defense contradicted concerns raised by Home Minister Priyank Kharge regarding irregularities in specific districts. Kharge highlighted issues like deceased individuals being incorrectly marked as living and bulk applications lacking verification. The opposition BJP capitalized on the discord, criticizing the Congress's contradiction of its leadership's claims.

School Assembly News Headlines for October 30, 2026: The Centre will release the 24th instalment of the PM-Kisan scheme on October 30, benefiting eligible farmers. The Bombay High Court has denied Meta's request to relocate a lawsuit to California, affirming Indian jurisdiction. Jamia Millia Islamia has prolonged online classes until November 24 due to ongoing protests on campus. In Israel's 2026 elections, Benjamin Netanyahus bloc is reportedly leading with a projected seat count near 54.

A Dubai real estate agent received a Lamborghini Urus worth up to Rs 4 crore after closing more than $500 million in sales over two years. Richkey Properties CEO Daban Othman surprised Natalia Chavez with the luxury SUV at the firm's third anniversary gala, where she was also named its Top Performer of 2026 after winning four major awards.

In February 1905, the Duluth Aerial Ferry Bridge debuted to facilitate travel over a challenging sandbar. This innovative structure enabled rapid transport of individuals and cargo across water. However, with the rise of cars during the 1920s, its limitations became all too clear. As a result, the city opted for a modern vertical lift bridge.

Following a national vote, Benjamin Netanyahu remains as caretaker prime minister without a clear government. President Isaac Herzog will consult with party leaders to identify potential candidates for government formation. If unsuccessful, a new election could be triggered within approximately 100 days. Netanyahu may attempt to recruit opposition members to secure a right-wing majority. Alternatively, a unity government with opposition parties may also be considered as a last resort.

Suzlon Energy reported a 69% year-on-year profit decline to 394 crore in Q2 FY27, despite 26% revenue growth to 4,869 crore. Record turbine deliveries, a 6,009 MW order book and a 2,048 crore net cash position strengthened its outlook.

ESAF Small Finance Bank reported a net profit of Rs 160 crore in Q2, reversing a Rs 116 crore loss in the year-ago period. Improved margins, lower provisions and stronger asset quality supported the turnaround, while advances and deposits grew 25% and 24%, respectively.

Trent Q2 Results: Trent reported a 25.3% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY27 consolidated net profit to Rs 468 crore, while revenue grew 21.9% to Rs 5,873 crore. EBITDA rose 29.6% to Rs 1,054 crore, with margins improving to 18.2%. The retailer expanded its footprint across Westside, Zudio and other lifestyle concepts.

Indias defence stocks have outperformed the Nifty 50 in FY27, with the sector index rising 22%. The top 10 performers gained 43513%, including five multibagger stocks.

HR operations experts are essential in boosting effectiveness and enriching the employee journey inside companies. The ET HR Excellence Awards 2027 celebrates teams that have transformed HR workflows and provided valuable insights based on data. This recognition motivates them to capture their accomplishments and receive the praise they truly merit for their impactful contributions.

IndiGo Q2 Results: Budget airline IndiGo reported narrowing of its consolidated loss to Rs 1,879 crore in the second quarter of FY27, compared with Rs 2,582 crore in the year-ago quarter. However, the loss widened from Rs 237 crore posted in the preceding June quarter.

India's M&A deal value has declined over the year while the number of deals remains stable. Strategic partnerships are expected to increase, particularly between Indian and Chinese companies. Sectors like healthcare, consumer, infrastructure, and technology are showing strong activity. Concerns over the rupee and market volatility are downplayed by investment bankers. Despite challenges, the long-term growth outlook for India is regarded as stable and positive.

Ambit Capital sees the recent correction in power stocks as a re-entry opportunity, favouring Tata Power, JSW Energy and Torrent Power. Rising electricity demand, fresh capacity contracting and limited PPA visibility could drive the sectors next growth phase.

Bajaj Electricals executive chairman Shekhar Bajaj will step down from his current role by the end of 2026 after leading the company for four decades. He will transition to a non-executive board position from January 1, 2027, subject to shareholder approval. The move is part of the companys shift towards a professionally managed, board-led governance model, it said.