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The Economic Times

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No takers: Public sector banks put 39,000 cr of bad loans up for sale again

Public sector banks offered many bad loans previously for sale. Nearly eighty percent of these loans were repeat sale attempts. Indian Overseas Bank and Indian Bank led these repeated offerings. Private sector banks showed a sharp contrast with few repeat sales. This highlights challenges in selling large legacy corporate accounts.

20 Aug 2026 12:44 am
ET World Leaders Forum: It's time for Indian cos to scale across global markets with Dubai as the base

Indian companies have long played a major role in Dubais economy, with nearly 82,000 active Indian businesses registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce by end-2025. Rising bilateral trade and the India-UAE CEPA are deepening ties, while Dubais infrastructure, capital, talent and connectivity offer Indian firms a platform for global expansion.

20 Aug 2026 12:39 am
Used car loans grew faster than auto loans in last five years despite higher stress: Report

Used car financing grew faster than auto loans over five years. The used car finance portfolio reached Rs 1.3 lakh crore by June 2026. Auto loans portfolio grew to Rs 9.9 lakh crore during the same period. Financiers funded used cars despite facing higher stress levels. Overall asset quality in the wheels finance segment is now stabilising.

19 Aug 2026 10:59 pm
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Thursday

Indian equities extended losses for a seventh session as rising oil prices and US-Iran tensions heightened risk aversion. Nifty fell to 24,078, while Sensex declined 326 points. Analysts flagged 24,000-24,050 as crucial support, with weak breadth favouring bears.

19 Aug 2026 9:16 pm
Sebi flags manipulative trades during CAS on Sensex expiry day, fines two entities

Sebi issued an interim order against Copthall Mauritius and Mansi Share and Stock Broking for manipulative trading during the August 13, 2026, Closing Auction Session. The regulator impounded Rs 3.67 crore in alleged wrongful gains from these two entities.

19 Aug 2026 8:56 pm
RBI deputy governor Murmu calls for focus on meaningful financial inclusion

Banks must measure financial inclusion by effective usage and informed decisions. Technology shifts and consumer behavior necessitate responsive banking systems. Digital inclusion deepens, and AI helps recognize capability across diverse groups. Institutions need skilled people to challenge models and oversee external providers. Prudence requires pooled intelligence and credible alternatives for system resilience.

19 Aug 2026 8:50 pm
Goldman Sachs backs D-street debutante Shiprocket, buys over 40 lakh shares

Shiprocket debuted on the NSE at 131, a 35% premium, closing at 143.10. Goldman Sachs India EQ Portfolio acquired 40.24 lakh shares post-listing. Analysts advise investors to book partial profits while holding remaining shares for long-term growth.

19 Aug 2026 8:27 pm
BSE looks to launch MSCI-linked futures and options in India

BSE has partnered with MSCI to explore futures and options contracts linked to MSCI indexes in India, subject to regulatory approvals. The move could broaden BSEs derivatives offerings, strengthen index-based investing and provide investors additional tools to hedge India exposure.

19 Aug 2026 8:13 pm
In 1984, Texas A&M researchers developed Rio Red grapefruit using radiation-induced mutations. 42 years later, it accounts for around 75% of all grapefruits produced in Texas, becoming the states dominant variety

Texas's popular Rio Red grapefruit originated from radiation-induced mutations in 1984. This variety, developed at Texas A&M University, offered vibrant pink flesh and improved hardiness. Early atomic research explored radiation's potential to alter living organisms and create beneficial mutations.

19 Aug 2026 8:06 pm
Quote of the day by Epicurus: 'He who has peace of mind disturbs...' Life lessons from inspirational quote on inner balance, hard work, self-disturbance, peace, kindness and external harmony

Quote of the day by Epicurus, He who has peace of mind disturbs neither himself nor another, explains how inner calm can affect daily life. The quote connects peace of mind with managing worry, desire, fear, anger and conflict. It also offers life lessons about self-kindness, contentment, friendship, external harmony and avoiding actions that disturb others around you.

19 Aug 2026 7:59 pm
In 2016, Yale began following 3,635 people aged 50+; 12 years later, those reading books regularly showed a 23% lower mortality hazard, with readers reaching an 80% survival point 23 months later

Yale researchers tracked 3,635 adults aged 50 and older over a twelve-year study. Their findings showed that regular book readers had a 23 percent lower mortality hazard. Active book readers reached an 80 percent survival milestone 23 full months later than non-readers. Deep cognitive engagement from daily reading strengthens brain function over time. Reading books regularly remains one of the most effective habits for living a longer life.

19 Aug 2026 7:59 pm
Commerce minister Piyush Goyal leads 70-member business delegation to Singapore

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is leading a large delegation to Singapore. This visit aims to strengthen trade and investment ties between the two nations. The delegation includes representatives from various key sectors like technology and finance. Singapore remains India's largest source of foreign direct investment. Bilateral trade has significantly expanded following a cooperation agreement.

19 Aug 2026 7:58 pm
A Byzantine royal ship sank off Croatia in the 7th century, 1300 years later it was discovered with 600 grams of gold including a gold ring linked to emperor Heraclius

A 1,300-year-old shipwreck off Croatia's Mljet island revealed over 600 grams of gold. This significant discovery includes a signet ring possibly linked to Emperor Heraclius. Gem-encrusted belts and coins bearing four emperors' names were also recovered. The vessel sank during a challenging period for the Byzantine Empire. This find offers a rare glimpse into maritime activity and elite life.

19 Aug 2026 7:57 pm
J&K CM Omar Abdullah reacts to viral We are Gen Z video after tourists argument at Kargil checkpoint: What happened

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the growing use of Gen Z as a threat. He stated this rhetoric could undermine goodwill associated with the younger generation. Abdullah compared the phrase to an old saying about parental influence. Using generational identity as a threat is counterproductive and damaging. This warning comes amid discussions on tourist treatment in Jammu and Kashmir.

19 Aug 2026 7:52 pm
Rs 3 crore to Rs 4,925 crore: Sebi order gives details on Dhenu Buildcon market cap surge

Sebis interim order alleges Dhenu Buildcon routed Rs 1,000 crore through connected entities as loans, later converting Rs 840 crore into equity. Despite negligible revenue, its market cap surged to Rs 4,925 crore. The regulator ordered restrictions while investigations continue.

19 Aug 2026 7:18 pm
VC fund Caret Capital invests Rs 12 crore in Yantra Packs

Yantra Packs secured Rs 12 crore in seed funding from Caret Capital. This capital will fuel expansion across India and enhance technology capabilities. The company aims to scale its reusable packaging assets for enterprise customers. Yantra Packs offers reusable packaging solutions as a service to businesses. Their platform Trakkia provides crucial asset tracking and supply chain visibility.

19 Aug 2026 5:57 pm
Lenskart Solutions among 4 stocks to hit 52-week highs & surge up to 25% in a month

Four BSE 200 stocksGlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, Lenskart Solutions, Bosch and Samvardhana Motherson Internationalhit fresh 52-week highs despite Sensex weakness. The stocks gained 18%-24% over the past month, signalling strong investor interest and positive momentum.

19 Aug 2026 5:46 pm
Market wrap: HCL Tech, Sun Pharma, Power Grid, Bajaj Finance top gainers and losers on Nifty and Sensex on Wednesday

Indian equities extended losses for a seventh session, with Nifty falling 0.32% and Sensex 0.42% ahead of US FOMC minutes. IT stocks gained, but broader markets weakened. Analysts flagged 24,000 as crucial Nifty support amid persistent sell-on-rallies sentiment.

19 Aug 2026 5:42 pm
Tech holds the crown, but defensive positioning grows: BofA survey

Technology remains investors top choice, but Asia fund managers are turning defensive, with 59% hedging AI downside through value, cyclical and defensive sectors. Asia ex-Japan optimism rose, while Japan exposure remains concentrated in banks and semiconductors amid policy expectations and weaker semiconductor sentiment.

19 Aug 2026 5:33 pm
The UK pension pot question: Why 2026-27 is the year to decide

Starting April 2027, UK pension pots will be subject to inheritance tax, prompting a reevaluation of legacy planning strategies. For Indians holding UK pensions, transferring them to Indian QROPS before this deadline becomes vital. This process involves specific forms and an exact completion sequence. Indian pension schemes present a variety of investment options tailored to different risk profiles.

19 Aug 2026 4:35 pm
AI in finance: From crunching numbers to making decisions, how far can it go?

Artificial intelligence is increasingly assisting in financial tasks and decision-making. Organisations report improved decision quality and faster processing with AI integration. Routine finance work like bookkeeping is being automated by AI systems. However, complex decisions still require human judgment and professional expertise.

19 Aug 2026 4:21 pm
Oil India vs ONGC vs OMCs: What JM Financials $80 Brent call means for oil stocks

Brent crude may stay near eighty dollars a barrel for twelve months. Analysts favor Oil India and ONGC due to expected earnings growth. Oil India's refinery capacity expansion will drive future output increases. Oil marketing companies face pressure from lower integrated gross margins. Valuation and earnings concerns persist for HPCL, BPCL, and IOCL.

19 Aug 2026 3:50 pm
Congress stands with tribals staging 'satyagraha' against 'Ken-Betwa project', will pressure govt: Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi supports tribals protesting the Ken-Betwa river-linking project. He will visit the protest site to pressure the government. Tribals claim the project will displace thousands and harm the Panna Tiger Reserve. They allege administrative harassment and seek parliamentary intervention. Gandhi pledged his and Congress's solidarity with the affected communities.

19 Aug 2026 3:06 pm
Italian Proverb of the Day: The eye doesnt see, the heart doesnt hurt. A timeless lesson on peace of mind

Italian Proverb of the Day: The eye doesnt see, the heart doesnt hurt explores the connection between awareness and emotional pain. The traditional saying suggests that people may avoid worry or distress when they remain unaware of something unpleasant. Its broader lesson considers whether knowing difficult truths always brings greater peace or whether ignorance can sometimes protect peace of mind.

19 Aug 2026 3:04 pm
Swiggy to see $400 million outflows after Indian-owned status? Jefferies explains why

Swiggy is moving closer to becoming an Indian-owned and controlled company (IOCC), a move that could enable an inventory-led model for Instamart and potentially improve margins. However, Jefferies expects the shift to trigger passive outflows of over $400 million from MSCI and FTSE indices due to foreign ownership limits. The brokerage retained its Buy rating with a target price of Rs 435.

19 Aug 2026 3:02 pm
In 2018, scientists added up to 15 tons of cacao-shell biochar per hectare to degraded tropical soil; maize yields improved over several growing seasons

Research indicates that using cacao-shell waste to create biochar has significantly improved agricultural yields on degraded farmland in Sumatra. Over time, this biochar technique demonstrated enhanced effectiveness, particularly in the acidic Ultisol soil. However, its benefits diminished after multiple growing seasons, necessitating repeated applications to sustain its positive influence. Thus, biochar emerges as a beneficial resource for promoting soil health and ensuring food security.

19 Aug 2026 3:00 pm
Bangladesh seeks faster business visas, balanced economic ties with India

Bangladesh seeks faster business visa issuance for its nationals traveling to India. Dhaka also urged greater ease of doing business for mutual economic benefits. The nation wants businesses and private sectors to communicate more frequently. Bangladesh desires more vibrant trade, investment, and communication between the two countries. It invites greater Indian investment in Bangladesh's economic zones.

19 Aug 2026 2:58 pm
Zendaya movies & series to watch this weekend on OTT: From Spider-Man and Malcolm & Marie to Euphoria, must-watch picks

Looking for something entertaining to watch this weekend? Zendaya has built an impressive screen career, moving effortlessly between superhero blockbusters, musical dramas, intense romances and dark coming-of-age stories.

19 Aug 2026 2:57 pm
Shiprocket lifts off: The fire that fuels the new logistics engine

Shiprockets strong stock market debut reflects surging investor confidence in Indias tech-driven e-commerce infrastructure. As rapid D2C expansion, SMB digitization, and quick commerce transform Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets, Shiprockets neutral API aggregation model unifies a fragmented logistics ecosystem. Beyond core shipping aggregation, the platform's long-term growth is powered by expanding merchant fulfillment, payments, and checkout workflows.

19 Aug 2026 2:44 pm
Behari Lal Engineering shares rally 14% after stellar debut. What are brokerages saying?

Behari Lal Engineering shares surged 14% after making a strong market debut, listing at a 63% premium to the IPO price. Brokerages remain positive, citing strong investor appetite and reasonable valuations, though they advise investors to book partial profits after the sharp listing gains. Heres what SBI Securities and Swastika Investmart recommend on the stock.

19 Aug 2026 2:41 pm
BlackRock, Capital Group anchor IDFC FIRST Banks maiden $500 million global bond

IDFC FIRST Bank raised $500 million through its maiden international bond issuance, marking its entry into global debt markets. The three-year senior notes, due in 2029, carry a 5.625% coupon and attracted major investors including BlackRock, Capital Group and AllianceBernstein. The fundraising diversifies the banks funding base and supports its long-term growth ambitions.

19 Aug 2026 2:28 pm
Indian Bank raises $400 million for four years

Indian Bank raised $400 million through a four-year overseas funding programme via its GIFT City branch, joining Indian lenders tapping global debt markets. Banks are accelerating dollar bond issuances following regulatory changes to the concessional swap window for FCNR deposits. Axis, ICICI, Federal, IDFC First, Kotak Mahindra and Yes Bank are also active.

19 Aug 2026 2:20 pm
Mihir Rale appointed chair, Dibyajyoti Das co-chair of IAMAI Legal Tech Committee

Mihir Rale and Dibyajyoti Das will lead IAMAI's Legal Tech Committee. This committee fosters collaboration among legal professionals and tech providers. It aims to simplify regulations for India's evolving digital economy. The group will address overlapping laws and compliance challenges. Their work supports innovation while protecting consumers and managing risks.

19 Aug 2026 2:10 pm
Sabse bada rupaiya: India prints 3x more notes than the US, 6x more than Europe

India's rupee banknotes in circulation significantly outnumber US dollar and Euro notes. The Reserve Bank of India reports 176 billion rupee notes are currently in use. This volume is driven by a preference for lower-denomination notes and a Clean Note Policy. Physical currency circulation expands at double-digit rates annually, despite digital payment growth. This expansion presents forecasting challenges for the central bank's production planning.

19 Aug 2026 2:08 pm
Tiger Global-backed broking firm Upstox said to plan India IPO

Upstox is currently in talks with investment banks regarding a possible initial public offering. Backed by Tiger Global, the company plans to hire advisers shortly for the imminent listing. This IPO could potentially generate approximately $400 million from both new and existing investors. Following Groww's impactful IPO last year, Upstox reached unicorn status in 2021 subsequent to a significant funding round.

19 Aug 2026 1:20 pm
BSE shares bounce 2% after 5-session losing streak. Heres why Jefferies, Nuvama advise caution

BSE shares face fresh pressure after Nuvama and Jefferies downgraded the stock, citing headwinds from the Closing Auction Session, RBIs bank guarantee norms and limited scope for further market share gains. Nuvama cut its target price to Rs 3,240, while Jefferies lowered its target to Rs 2,940.

19 Aug 2026 1:07 pm
India stocks top Indonesia as Asias least-favoured in BofA poll

India has replaced Indonesia as Asias least-preferred stock market among fund managers surveyed by Bank of America, with 32% of respondents net underweight on Indian equities. Lack of clear AI exposure, weak growth, high valuations and limited reforms emerged as key concerns, even as improving earnings and renewed foreign inflows provide some support.

19 Aug 2026 1:02 pm
Sebi reviewing IPO rules for smaller companies and delisting norms: Tuhin Kanta Pandey

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is actively analyzing new frameworks for small company IPOs and delisting procedures. In a move to bolster global fund management operations from Indian turf, proposed enhancements to portfolio manager regulations aim to strengthen onshore trading strategies. Furthermore, the SEBI head announced that the innovative closing auction session will effectively pinpoint manipulative practices, assuring the public that severe repercussions await any det

19 Aug 2026 12:47 pm
Trump aide Natalie Harps brother reacts to report she climbed into SUV trunk to accompany President; recalls her letter to George Bush

Preston Harp, Natalie Harp's estranged brother, was taken aback after hearing that she climbed into an SUV trunk due to denied access to a motorcade. He expressed concern over what he views as her unhealthy fixation on President Trump, attributing her loyalty to their shared conservative beliefs and a strong sense of American exceptionalism, which he believes shapes her understanding of Trump's values.

19 Aug 2026 12:08 pm
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay announces 365 days maternity leave for third child to boost population growth

The Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister Vijay has extended maternity leave for women state government employees having a third child from 12 weeks to 365 days. Human Resources Management Minister D Sarathkumar announced the decision in the Assembly on Tuesday. The move aligns third-child maternity benefits with those for the first two children amid Tamil Nadu's declining fertility rate and ageing population.

19 Aug 2026 12:07 pm
As Europe bakes, momentum grows for climate-resilient farming

Extreme weather is pushing farmers toward climate-resilient practices for better yields. Regenerative farming methods improve soil health and water retention significantly. Major companies and financial institutions are funding this agricultural transition. These collaborations aim to mitigate risks from climate change and ensure supply chains. Farmers adopting these techniques are outperforming conventional holdings during droughts.

19 Aug 2026 12:03 pm
Tamil Nadu CM Joseph Vijay announces official vehicles and allowances for MLAs to address public grievances

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced new measures for MLAs. These measures include official vehicles and a monthly allowance for their work. MLAs will now travel constituencies to monitor projects and address public grievances. This initiative aims to enhance their capacity and provide support. The announcement was made under rule 110 in the state assembly.

19 Aug 2026 11:55 am
Kangana Ranaut backs Isha Koppikar after she calls herself a proud andhbhakt, says she 'identifies being a bhakt of almost anyone who I meet'

Isha Koppikar identified as a proud 'andhbhakt' for India's progress. She clarified her devotion is towards the nation, not any political party. Kangana Ranaut voiced support for Koppikar's sentiment on social media. Ranaut explained her own identification with loving one's country and people. This exchange follows Ranaut's earlier criticism of Gen Z protests.

19 Aug 2026 11:54 am
IIT Delhi admission is 20 times harder than Harvard, says founder-turned-investor at $40 billion fund

Bengaluru-based investor and IIT Delhi alumnus Ishan Preet Singh has claimed that entering an IIT is mathematically 20 times harder than getting into Harvard. In an Instagram vox pop interview, he discussed Indias rapid growth, founders returning from the US, career advice, passion, ambition, financial success and the importance of enjoying the work.

19 Aug 2026 11:51 am
Apple camera AirPods could launch soon: macOS Tahoe reveals Visual Intelligence demo

Apple's rumored camera-equipped AirPods may launch soon, showing Visual Intelligence capabilities. These earbuds could understand wearer's surroundings and save visual information for later use. The new AirPods, codenamed B790, might debut alongside the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models.

19 Aug 2026 11:41 am
Hayden Panettiere's secret lover, boyfriend Brian Hickerson's brother, got very emotional as she lay dying, while Brian did not until she was declared dead; both brothers were at the scene

Hayden Panettiere was found unresponsive at a South Carolina apartment. Both Brian and Zach Hickerson were present when emergency responders arrived. Zach became emotional while Brian showed no visible emotion until after her death. Medication was found at the property, and Narcan was reportedly present. Panettiere's mother expressed distress over Brian's presence at her daughter's death.

19 Aug 2026 11:24 am
Pia Dandiya, Indian-origin educator who founded school for low-income students, wins Florida Democratic primary; faces Republican ex-Marine Casey Askar in November showdown

Pia Dandiya has clinched the Democratic primary for Floridas newly redrawn 22nd Congressional District, setting up a contest against Republican Casey Askar in the general election in November. With a campaign centred on her experience as an educator and her vision for progress, Dandiya has secured backing from the Democratic National Committee, marking a significant moment in South Floridas evolving political landscape.

19 Aug 2026 11:21 am