The Economic Times

Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis, a word famous for its length, describes a lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust, particularly volcanic ash. Coined in 1935 by Everett M. Smith, it's a linguistic curiosity rather than a medically diagnosed condition. The word highlights the extremes of technical language and humanity's love for linguistic boundaries.

Bill Callahan has released his new single, Stepping Out for Air, ahead of his forthcoming album My Days of 58, set for February 27th. The track showcases his intense baritone voice along with a relaxed horn section, spotting a calming, introspective tone. Callahan explained its feel as someone on the couch playing and reflected, I held on to the song I like this song. It feels good.

The Supreme Court will review if the Enforcement Directorate has the legal standing to file petitions in high courts. This comes after Kerala and Tamil Nadu governments challenged an order upholding the ED's right. The Kerala High Court had previously stayed a state inquiry into alleged central agency overreach in a gold smuggling case.

Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel is in Assam to prepare for state polls and form alliances. He criticized Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing him of corruption. Baghel stated that Sarma's tenure marks the beginning of the end for BJP governments in the state. The Congress is in talks with like-minded parties for electoral partnerships.

India has decided to withdraw families of its officials stationed in Bangladesh due to the prevailing security situation. This precautionary measure comes just weeks before Bangladesh's parliamentary elections. The Indian High Commission and other posts in Bangladesh will remain operational.

Silver prices are trading near $95 per ounce, marking the strongest rally in modern history. The metal is now up nearly 230% from early-2025 lows near $28. On January 19, 2026, spot silver hit a record $94.67, outperforming gold with a 6.30% daily jump. Driven by solar energy demand and safe-haven buying, silver is now the worlds top-performing commodity of the year.

Filing taxes early in 2026 can help people get their tax refund faster and lower the risk of fraud. The IRS allows early filing, so waiting until April is not required. Experts say early filing can reduce stress, protect personal information, and help people use their refund money sooner.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick projected first-quarter 2026 GDP growth exceeding 5%, attributing current economic limitations to high interest rates. He also cautioned the EU against retaliating against President Trump's threatened tariffs concerning Greenland, predicting a resolution similar to past trade disputes.

Book of the day: Markovitss novel stands out for its unflinching focus on the inner life of a man navigating the universal terrain of ageing, loss and hope.

Diabetes risk: Top nutrition experts question the protein push, saying Americans already consume more protein than they need, and theres no new evidence that people need to drastically ramp up consumption.

U.S. stock markets moved lower as major companies faced heavy selling. The S&P 500 slipped after several days of losses, causing a huge drop in total market value. Big technology stocks played a key role in the fall. Experts used a Greenland value comparison to explain how large the market decline has been.

A$AP Rocky has officially announced the Dont Be Dumb World Tour in celebration of his latest studio album, Dont Be Dumb. The 42-date tour will be introduced on May 27 at the United Center in Chicago and travel across major cities in North America before ending the U.S. leg on July 11 in Newark, New Jersey.

European leaders in Davos are seeking a united front against Donald Trump's global gambit, with calls to resist he law of the strongest. CEOs warn against emotional responses to U.S. actions, while European officials emphasize independence and defending industries. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President Zelenskiy awaits U.S. commitment on security guarantees and reconstruction plans.

At workplaces, informal norms can be harder to navigate than formal rules, particularly in small teams where closeness is prized. New employees often feel compelled to overcompensate, mistaking compliance for acceptance.

New ticket cancellation rules are now in effect for Vande Bharat Sleeper and Amrit Bharat II trains. Passengers cancelling confirmed tickets less than eight hours before departure will receive no refund. This change aims to reduce last-minute cancellations and improve berth utilization. These premium trains operate on a 100% confirmed berth policy, unlike regular trains.

JioBlackRock Asset Management is set to offer Indian investors unique investment strategies. The company plans to introduce differentiated products, systematic investing, and technology-driven portfolio construction. This approach aims to create long-term value by 2026. They are exploring new investment vehicles beyond traditional mutual funds. JioBlackRock is building for long-term investor value.

Following a Delhi election setback, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is focusing on Punjab, its sole ruling state. The party is rebuilding its organization and identifying new leaders for upcoming elections in states like Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. AAP aims to regain power in Delhi by 2027 and solidify its position as a national player.

A 401(k) is a key retirement savings plan for many workers. Some rules are often missed but can help save money. These rules can reduce taxes, avoid penalties, and manage emergencies better. Learning how a 401(k) works early helps people keep more money for the future and make smarter retirement choices.

360 ONE Asset has successfully raised 1,000 crore for its pioneering Multi-Stage Defence & Space Strategy, attracting significant investor interest. This fund uniquely invests across the entire lifecycle of defence and space companies, from venture capital to pre-IPO stages.

Sabrina Carpenters quote, I might not know who I was yesterday or who Im going to be tomorrow, but I know who I am right now highlights self-awareness, living in the present, and embracing ones personal identity. Today, in a fast-paced world packed with social comparisons and unpredictability, her phrases remind people to focus on the present moment rather than past mistakes or future worries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the crucial role of youth in building a Viksit Bharat. He praised the BJP's cadre-based system, contrasting it with family-run parties that he claims stifle young talent. Modi also accused the opposition of appeasing infiltrators for votes. He stressed that the BJP, a party of governance, must avoid the pitfalls of the Congress.

The gathering in Davos, Switzerland, comes as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to push for the seizure of Greenland and the imposition of related trade tariffs.

Beyonc's powerful words urge women to change how they see themselves and step forward to lead. This philosophy guided her journey from Destiny's Child to global superstardom. Her career, marked by reinvention and record-breaking success, inspires confidence and agency. Beyonc's impact extends beyond music, influencing culture and acting. Her message highlights that empowerment begins within, driving personal and collective progress.

US President Donald Trump claims he ended the India-Pakistan conflict. He also stated Norway controls the Nobel Peace Prize, an award he believes he deserves. Trump is launching a 'Board of Peace' initiative for Gaza's redevelopment. He has invited global leaders, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to join this new body aimed at resolving global conflict.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stated at the World Economic Forum that global companies are investing in India due to its stable government, policies, and talent. He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership as India's est USP on the world stage, driving economic growth and the country's ambition to become the third-largest economy.

Micron (MU) stock price: Micron Technology shares surged after Stifel raised its price target to $360, citing strong AI cloud demand and improved supply. The memory chipmaker is expected to post significant revenue growth, supported by strategic shifts and a recent fab acquisition in Taiwan. Analysts remain divided on its valuation, but the company's outlook appears robust.

India's advanced defence capabilities will be on full display at the 77th Republic Day Parade. The DRDO's new long-range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Glide Missile, with a 1500 km range, will be showcased. This advanced weapon system highlights India's growing self-reliance in defence technology. Other defence assets will also be featured, underscoring India's military prowess.

RMZ commits $10 billion to Andhra Pradesh for mixed-use, digital, industrial, and logistics infrastructure over five to six years. Plans include a 10 million sq ft IT park and a 1 GW data centre in Visakhapatnam, plus a 1,000-acre industrial park in Rayalaseema, aiming to boost employment and technology-led growth.

Palantir stocks today down as PLTR share price slid by over 1 per cent at Nasdaq.

Dow Jones Crash today: U.S. stocks plunged as Trump threatened tariffs over Greenland acquisition. Dow fell 725 points, S&P 500 dropped 1.3%, Nasdaq slid 1.5%. Treasury yields surged, dollar weakened. European leaders warned of countermeasures. Nvidia, AMD, Alphabet led tech losses. Geopolitical tensions in Iran and Israel added stress. Investors fled to gold and bonds. Global markets remain volatile and cautious.

A Danish pension fund has decided to sell its US Treasury bonds due to money risks. The move shows concern about US debt and future finances. Global investors are watching closely as trust in government spending is questioned. The decision highlights growing caution in financial markets without going into political reasons.

Chris Pratt in 'Mercy': Mercy centers on homicide detective Chris Raven, who awakens strapped into an executioners chair with no memory of the night his wife was murdered. Judged by an AI system, he is granted ninety minutes to prove his innocence before execution. The movie delves into justice without juries, the challenges of automated punishment, and how shallow, intense and constant monitoring increase fear.

Indian companies are elevating sanctions exposure from a compliance issue to a central business risk due to volatile geopolitics and expanding sanctions regimes. Boards and senior management are now accountable for anticipating and managing these risks, which have direct implications for operations, reputation, and access to capital.

Sarhad Dairy in Ahmedabad, India's first camel milk plant, procured over 4,700 litres of camel milk daily in 2024-25. The dairy paid more than Rs 8.7 crore to over 350 camel farming families. This initiative supports animal husbandry farmers and showcases growth in the dairy sector.

10 year treasury yield: Global markets felt the heat as US Treasury yields surged following fresh tariff threats from Washington, reigniting trade war anxieties with Europe. Investors pulled back from US assets, pushing the 10-year Treasury yield above 4.28%. Concerns over potential tariffs on European goods and French wine added to the risk-off sentiment, impacting equities and the dollar.

Thought of the day associated with Billie Eilish ultimately reflects a broader argument about art in the digital age. Noise may dominate timelines and playlists, but it is words that linger

En route to the inter- Scaling Energy Systems Through Policy, Finance & Regional Leadership, discussing with the Chief Secretary on positioning Jharkhand as a global player in energy security, Soren posted on X.

Victor Wembanyama had a season-high seven 3-pointers and finished with 33 points and 10 rebounds, and the San Antonio Spurs beat the Utah Jazz 123-110 on Monday.

MSTR stock is getting attention after a major investment by a large fund manager. Strategy is known for holding bitcoin, which links its share price to crypto market moves. Investors are watching how big institutions react and what the company says in its upcoming earnings, as market interest in bitcoin-linked stocks continues to grow.