The Economic Times

Public sector banks are borrowing more to fund lending expansion. Deposits are not keeping pace with credit growth for these banks. Private banks show stronger deposit growth and are gaining market share. This trend raises concerns about funding sustainability for state-owned lenders. Abundant system liquidity currently cushions the impact of these shifts.

Fire insurance premiums dropped significantly in the first four months of the financial year. Aggressive discounting on large industrial risks pressured insurers competing for corporate accounts. The regulator received complaints of steep discounts, raising financial health concerns. Major insurers like New India Assurance and ICICI Lombard saw premium reductions. Pricing for industrial fire risks must now follow sound actuarial principles.

Gaja Alternative Asset Management's listing marks a significant step for the industry. The company is the first pure-play PE asset manager to list domestically. This listing allows retail investors indirect access to private equity investments. Gaja Alternative has committed capital of 3,200 crore as of March 31, 2026. The company raised 550 crore through its initial public offering.

Best Italian Proverb of the Day: The wolf is always said to be bigger than it is captures how fear can make dangers appear greater than they really are. The Italian proverb uses the image of an oversized wolf to show how people can exaggerate threats, difficulties or risks, reminding us to distinguish genuine danger from the fear created by perception and repeated stories.

India is open to expanding its economic partnership agreement with Japan. The nation seeks to make the existing pact more contemporary and relevant. Japanese textile firms, including Uniqlo, plan increased sourcing and investment in India. Significant Japanese investment is already flowing into India at a rapid pace. India aims to support Japan's ambition to double its companies operating locally.

Quote of the day by Jackie Chan reflects on the value of self-improvement and doing ones best despite difficulty. The idea speaks to everyday experiences such as facing setbacks, managing self-doubt, staying disciplined at work and accepting that progress takes time. The article explores how persistence, personal responsibility, patience and a willingness to help others can shape meaningful growth.

Bennedict Mathurin joins the New Orleans Pelicans on a two-year contract. He arrives after a season split between two NBA teams. Mathurin averaged a career-high 17.6 points per game last season. The deal includes a player option for additional flexibility. This signing adds another scoring option for the Pelicans.

India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal proposed a startup pitching series between India and Japan. This initiative, similar to Shark Tank, aims to connect young companies with investors. The virtual format will leverage digital connectivity for increased participation and collaboration. Japan's patient capital and precision engineering are invited to partner with Indian firms. This move seeks to deepen commercial ties and foster business growth between the two nations.

The rupee's depreciation and strict valuation rules hinder foreign income disclosure. A one-time voluntary disclosure window allows regularization of overseas assets up to one crore. However, many exceed this limit due to currency conversion dates and asset values. Taxpayers explore updated returns and disclosure schemes, risking misrepresentation claims. Clarification on valuation rules is needed for borderline cases and falling-value assets.

A new robot named CiliaVine manipulates blood flow using magnetic fields. This device successfully captured circulating tumor cells from all tested liver cancer patients. It also demonstrated improved clot breakdown in laboratory models. Researchers coated CiliaVine with antibodies for effective tumor cell capture.

Rupert Grint will portray Ron Weasley in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway. He is scheduled to join the production for a limited engagement starting February 2027. This marks Grint's return to the iconic character after many years. The play is set nineteen years after the original Harry Potter book series concluded. Grint will play an older, fatherly version of the beloved wizarding character.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stated allegations against a judge require institutional examination. Justice Sandeep Mehta wrote letters raising concerns about the Rajasthan Acting Chief Justice. The Supreme Court collegium is reviewing the material provided by Justice Mehta. The concerned judge will receive a fair opportunity to respond to allegations. Any administrative action will follow due consideration of all placed material.

Quote of the day by Elton John highlights why asking for help is often harder than saying I love you. The idea connects with relationships, setbacks, uncertainty and the pressure to manage difficult moments alone. The article examines lessons about acceptance, self-understanding, courage and knowing when to seek support.

A 17-year-old Connecticut student, Leon Wang, identified two FDA-approved lung-scarring drugs that reduced Alzheimers-linked cellular damage in lab-grown brain blood-vessel cells. His research offers a promising new clue into how APOE4 and the TGF pathway may contribute to Alzheimers disease, while raising the possibility that existing medicines could eventually be repurposed for brain health.

India is among the world's top five economies and will soon reach third place. The nation is strengthening its indigenous defense production capabilities significantly. Defense exports have increased substantially after 2014, reaching new heights. Women now hold prominent leadership roles in defense and development sectors. Citizens are urged to uphold national unity and constitutional values.

The Upper Mississippi River's navigation was transformed by America's construction of locks and dams in the 1930s. While these aging structures facilitate the annual transport of millions of tons of goods, supporting vital economic activity, they have also inflicted ecological harm on river ecosystems. Current modernization initiatives strive to enhance navigational reliability while simultaneously mitigating environmental impacts.

A massive Louisiana solar panel factory operates independently of new import tariffs. This plant produces panels using a unique cadmium telluride semiconductor technology. While free from polysilicon tariffs, it still needs Chinese tellurium for production. The facility is a significant domestic manufacturing hub for solar energy. Its economic viability is bolstered by domestic content requirements in contracts.

A Kerala temple has attracted online attention for a long-standing tradition in which devotees offer Munch chocolate to Lord Murugan and receive it back as prasad. A recent video has revived interest in the practice, with some viewers sharing memories and excitement, while others questioned the customs religious significance and criticised the chocolate and its packaging.

President Trump announced new tariffs on Canadian imports after trade talks broke down. Canada retaliated with matching duties on United States goods, which will take effect soon. Trump also imposed tariffs on Canadian autos and parts starting next year. White House advisor Peter Navarro predicted a worse deal for Canada in the future. He stated that Canada would not get the same advantageous offer again.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to the UK, with the couple said to have found a hidden gem in the Cotswolds as their potential new home. The picturesque area could put the Sussexes among some of Britains and Americas biggest celebrity names, including Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, the Beckhams, Kate Moss and Stella McCartney.

Indian equities reversed morning gains to close sharply lower, with Sensex falling 183 points and Nifty declining 0.52%. IT stocks weakened on visa concerns, offsetting gains in banks and metals. Technical signals pointed to continued range-bound trading and caution.

Indian markets ended marginally lower as sectoral divergence offset gains in banks and metals. IT stocks weakened on visa appointment concerns, while easing bond yields supported financials. Analysts recommended Ashok Leyland and NMDC, citing strong breakouts and improving technical momentum.

Capital Group divested a 1.04 percent stake in Avenue Supermarts for Rs 2,537 crore. This significant open market transaction involved selling over 67 lakh equity shares of D-Mart's parent company. The shares were offloaded at an average price of Rs 3,750.58 per share. Avenue Supermarts' stock experienced a slight decline following the divestment announcement. The company recently reported an 11.33 percent rise in its June quarter net profit.

Octave Intelligence has opened its largest global office in Hyderabad, India. This new technology center will drive software engineering, AI, and product development efforts. The company sees significant growth opportunities in India's expanding infrastructure sector. Octave's software supports critical assets across their entire lifecycle. The firm is also exploring acquisition possibilities following its recent spin-off.

Adani Group-backed Cemindia Projects, formerly known as ITD Cementation India, is preparing to launch a qualified institutional placement (QIP) to raise up to Rs 5,000 crore. The company has appointed ICICI Securities and SBI Capital Markets as advisers and has been meeting institutional investors ahead of the potential share sale.

In a strategic move, Allcargo Logistics plans to raise its blue-collar workforce by twenty percent. This decision aims to strengthen its express distribution and consultative logistics services ahead of the festive season, which is expected to bring about a notable increase in demand. To support this growth, the company will also implement a new incentive program for all its operational units.

Mold-Tek Packagings board has approved a 1:1 bonus issue and recommended a final dividend of Rs 3 per share for FY26. Under the proposal, shareholders will receive one bonus share of Rs 5 face value for every share held. The company will announce the record date later, while the dividend will be declared at its annual general meeting.

Indian companies are increasingly using mergers and acquisitions to accelerate growth. Deal volumes have more than doubled since fiscal 2017, reflecting this trend. Many companies are acquiring technology and talent through strategic acquisitions. Successful deals expanded scale and improved margins after synergies kicked in. Integration challenges and regulatory delays remain key risks for some acquisitions.

While the Nifty Midcap 150 continues to trade near record levels, several individual midcap stocks have seen sharp declines from their 52-week highs. An analysis of ACE Equity data highlights 14 midcap stocks that have fallen between 30% and 55%, revealing the weakness beneath the index-level resilience.

Jefferies has raised its target prices for Hindustan Zinc and Hindalco Industries, but prefers the former, retaining a Buy rating versus Hold on Hindalco. The brokerage expects stronger zinc and silver prices to boost Hindustan Zincs earnings, while softer aluminium prices and higher debt could weigh on Hindalcos performance.

India's stock exchange has seen options turnover plummet to its lowest in a year, a direct consequence of newly enforced trading regulations and the adoption of a closing auction system. Cash equities trading has also dipped, marking its lowest since November. This downturn poses a significant challenge for the upcoming initial public offering by the NSE, as traders recalibrate their strategies to align with the modified auction process.

Meghan and Harry's return to Britain sparks intense media interest and polarized opinions. Reports of Meghan's potential acting role illustrate their brand's appeal and challenges. The couple previously cited media scrutiny as a reason for leaving royal duties. Their commercial ventures have faced setbacks, impacting their public image. Experts suggest a return to Britain could refresh Meghan's brand with a new narrative.

India and Seychelles agreed to deepen cooperation in fisheries and the blue economy. They will focus on sustainable marine resource management and scientific research. Both nations aim to foster economic growth and rural employment opportunities. They will explore joint development in aquaculture and tuna fisheries optimisation. This collaboration seeks to enhance food security and maritime prosperity.

A catastrophic flash flood has hit Nepal, sweeping away entire villages and vital infrastructure. Authorities are expressing grave concerns about potential casualties and are strongly advising locals to move to higher altitudes without delay. Rescue operations involving police and military personnel are underway to assist affected families. Those residing near the Bhote Koshi river are specifically cautioned to stay alert and prepared for any further developments.

After declaring at 503/9, India successfully bowled Sri Lanka out for 290, leading to a 213-run deficit for the visitors. Notably, Sonal Dinusha's remarkable century gave Sri Lanka a glimmer of hope. As India nears an innings victory, they only need ten more wickets, while Sri Lanka has a strenuous challenge ahead to evade defeat on the final day.

India's rice exports to key markets saw value and volume increases recently. The Bharat International Rice Conference aims to boost these exports further. This event will focus on showcasing Indian rice varieties for diverse international cuisines. Chefs and consumers will engage with Indian rice through various culinary activities. The strategy shifts from volume to application-led diversification for sustained demand.

ChatGPT Raksha Bandhan Photo Editing Prompts 2026: Celebrate Raksha Bandhan on Friday, August 28, 2026, a day dedicated to the cherished bond between brothers and sisters. This article showcases eight creative ChatGPT prompts designed to inspire stunning images that capture both traditional and modern celebrations, including the heartfelt connections shared by siblings separated by distance. These prompts aim to generate photorealistic visuals suitable for various media.

A Ukrainian commander rescued two wounded soldiers stranded on a battlefield. He drove into a mine-filled kill zone without protective gear. A Russian drone had immobilised their evacuation land drone, leaving them exposed. The commander's bravery earned him Ukraine's highest military honor. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented the award during Independence Day celebrations.

29-year-old woman's 4-step retirement plan: Sneha Rajguru retired from corporate life at 29 and, with her father, built a farm stay focused on permaculture, fruit cultivation, home-grown food and well-being. Her Instagram video explaining her four-step approach has crossed 4 lakh views and inspired many people online.

Gujarats reported decision to extend port concessions has removed a key overhang for Adani Ports and Gujarat Pipavav. While Pipavav stands to benefit more immediately as its concession expires in 2028, Adani Ports gains longer-term visibility for its Gujarat assets. Brokerages, however, see a sharper valuation risk for Pipavav.

Non-Resident Indians utilize NRE accounts to facilitate smooth transfer of their overseas income. For income earned within India, they commonly rely on NRO accounts. Many opt to hold both types of accounts to distinctly manage their finances. This distinction enhances clarity and simplifies record-keeping across various income sources, allowing NRIs to streamline their banking experiences effectively.

Sidbi achieved a record net profit of Rs 5,493 crore in FY26. Its balance sheet and asset base saw significant growth during the financial year. Loans and advances increased by seventeen percent, reflecting strong business expansion. The bank maintained stable asset quality with a low gross NPA ratio. Sidbi also approved a twenty percent dividend for its shareholders for FY25.

Welspun Corp shares fell sharply on Wednesday after 63 lakh shares worth Rs 1,433 crore changed hands in a block deal. Promoter group entity Welspun Investments and Commercials and CEO Vipul Mathur were likely sellers. The transaction represented about 2.4% of the companys outstanding shares and came after a sharp rally.

Cyient shares jumped 8% after the IT services company outlined its growth and margin roadmap at its investor day. Management is targeting double-digit revenue growth and EBIT margins above 15% in the near term, while brokerages remained divided on the pace of recovery. Motilal Oswal retained its Sell rating, while Nuvama and PL Capital maintained Hold ratings with higher target prices.

Motilal Oswal has reiterated its Buy rating on Vedanta Aluminium Metal with a target price of Rs 540, implying 21% upside. The brokerage expects EBITDA to grow at an 18% CAGR through FY26-28, supported by higher volumes, cost efficiencies, greater value-added production and favourable aluminium market dynamics.

Purple Style Labs, the parent company of Pernias Pop-Up Studio, has set its IPO price band at Rs 546-575 per share. The Rs 680-crore issue will open on August 31 and close on September 2. The luxury fashion platform plans to use proceeds for retail expansion, marketing and corporate purposes.