The Economic Times

Investors holding assets acquired before April 1, 2017, have received a significant reprieve. The Central Board of Direct Taxes has clarified that gains from these legacy investments will be exempt from General Anti-Avoidance Rules (GAAR). This move aims to provide much-needed clarity and reassurance for foreign investors and private equity funds concerning their existing holdings.

Steve Jobs, a visionary entrepreneur, co-founded Apple Inc. and spearheaded the personal computer revolution with the Macintosh. After a period away, he returned to Apple, leading its resurgence with iconic products like the iPod and iPhone. His legacy is defined by a relentless focus on design, innovation, and user experience.

Oracle layoffs 2026: US-IT firm Oracle has laid off thousands of employees and sent brutal 6 am emails on Tuesday, which stated that their jobs have been terminated. In India, 12,000 jobs have been affected and the company is planning another round of layoffs soon. The company is also offering severance packages to employees who resign at their will.

A recent Telangana food safety drive inspected 109 confectionery establishments, uncovering widespread issues with product quality and safety. Authorities seized 35 kilograms of expired sweets and issued notices to violators, urging parents to be vigilant about loose and unbranded treats to protect children's health.

Kuwait International Airport faced a drone attack from Iran, igniting a large fire at fuel tanks. No casualties were reported. Similar incidents occurred in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. A tanker near Qatar was also struck. These attacks follow US-Israeli strikes against Iran, with Tehran threatening Gulf infrastructure.

Asansol Dakshin gears up for a crucial 2026 West Bengal assembly election. Key issues include the declining coal economy, illegal mining, and identity politics. The BJP aims to retain the seat, while the TMC seeks to regain ground. Land subsidence and demographic shifts also influence the electoral landscape.

Celebrity news outlet TMZ is capturing lawmakers on vacation during a government shutdown. Videos of politicians at airports and theme parks have gone viral. This coverage is increasing pressure on Congress to end its recess. President Trump also wants lawmakers back. However, a funding impasse persists, making a swift resolution unlikely even if they return.

US President Donald Trump will address the nation on Iran at 9 pm Wednesday (6:30 am IST Thursday), the White House said. The announcement follows his statement that the US could end its military campaign within two to three weeks and that Iran does not need to strike a deal for the war to wind down.

April Fools Prank Ideas: April Fools' Day offers a chance for lighthearted fun, with the article suggesting simple, harmless pranks for home, school, work, and friends. The focus is on shared laughter and breaking routines with clever, quick tricks that don't cause distress or lasting issues.

India should definitely look for a geographical diversification for gas to mitigate the risks posed by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to Sandeep Jain, Former Executive Director (Gas) at Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL).

Chaitra Purnima kitna tarik ko hai: Chaitra Purnima will be observed today on April 1, 2026, and on this people offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and perform Satyanarayana puja at their homes and distribute bhog prasad to everyone. Chaitra Purnima tithi began from 7.06 am today and will end at 7.41 am tomorrow.

During a late-night encounter in Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir, security personnel thwarted a terrorist threat by eliminating one armed individual. The tactical operation was initiated on Tuesday night after receiving intelligence regarding potential hostile movements. Upon engagement, the suspects fired upon the troops, who swiftly retaliated, resulting in the enemy combatant's death.

American diplomats are now tasked with using the social media platform X. They will also partner with military psychological operations units. This initiative aims to combat foreign propaganda that threatens U.S. national security. The directive encourages leveraging tools like X's 'community notes' to expose falsehoods and promote trustworthy information. This move signals a new strategy in information warfare.

American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad, with Iraqi security forces pursuing her captors. A U.S. official blamed Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah, and one suspect has been arrested. Kittleson, who has reported extensively from the region, had previously been warned of danger.

LPG commercial cylinder price: The commercial LPG gas cylinder prices have been hiked significantly from April 1 amid the West Asia conflict. A 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder now costs Rs 195.50 more in Delhi. In big relief, domestic LPG prices remain unchanged. A 14.2-kg household cylinder continues to retail at Rs 913 in Delhi, following the last increase of Rs 60 on March 7.

India will offer temporary customs duty relief for goods produced in special economic zones and sold domestically. The reduced duty rates, ranging from 5% to 12.5%, will be effective from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, benefiting businesses that commenced production by March 31, 2025.

US crude oil is reaching Greece for the first time in four years. This shift is driven by Middle East conflicts impacting trade routes. Meanwhile, Ecuadorian crude oil has also been sent to Canada after a year's absence. These movements highlight changing global energy supply dynamics. Refineries are adapting to secure necessary oil supplies.

A US judge has halted President Donald Trump's plan for a 400 million dollar ballroom. The project aimed to replace the demolished East Wing of the White House. A preservation group sued, arguing Trump exceeded his authority. The judge agreed, blocking construction while the lawsuit continues. This is a setback for the administration's efforts to reshape the White House.

Israeli strikes in Beirut's southern suburbs and a nearby town killed at least seven people, with the military claiming to have targeted senior Hezbollah members. This escalation follows Hezbollah's involvement in the wider Middle East conflict, which has led to significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon. Israel's defense minister indicated plans for a buffer zone, drawing condemnation.

Delhi weather today: Delhi is likely to experience rain, thunderstorms and strong gusty winds on April 3 and 4, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said in its latest weather bulletin. No rain has been predicted today for Delhi and Noida. However, Gurugram may witness partly cloudy sky with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers today.

America anticipates an end to the Iran war within weeks. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated a potential direct meeting with Iran. Following the conflict, the US may reassess its alliance with NATO. European nations have not joined offensive operations against Iran. This war has impacted global markets and oil prices.

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps has issued a stern warning to eighteen major American companies. The IRGC alleges these firms aided US-Israeli terror operations within Iran. Retaliatory strikes are planned for regional offices, with devastating consequences anticipated. Employees and nearby residents are urged to evacuate potential target sites. This escalation follows recent alleged killings of Iranian figures.

On Wednesday three men and one woman are set to embark on the first crewed journey to the Moon since 1972, a landmark odyssey that aims to launch the US into a new era of space exploration. This contemporary era of American lunar investment has frequently been portrayed as an effort in competition with China, which is currently aiming to land humans on the Moon by 2030.

Nonplussed means bewildered. It describes a moment of being mentally at a loss. People are caught off guard and cannot think clearly. Journalists use it for unexpected events. It adds precision to reporting. The word comes from Latin. It helps convey subtle reactions with sophistication. It is effective for describing moments when individuals are caught off guard.

A panel has decided to exempt oil and gas drillers operating in the Gulf of Mexico from certain endangered species protections. This move is expected to ease regulations for these companies, potentially impacting marine life in the region.

A federal judge has allowed former Twitter investors to proceed with a class action lawsuit against Elon Musk. Investors claim Musk delayed disclosing his initial stake in the social media company. This decision could expose Musk to greater damages. The case centers on Musk's disclosure of his Twitter share ownership in 2022.

Tiger Woods has announced he is stepping away from golf to seek treatment following his recent DUI arrest. His attorney entered a not guilty plea to charges of misdemeanor driving under the influence and refusal to submit to a urinalysis. Woods cited prioritizing his well-being and working towards lasting recovery.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the campaign against Iran's regime is ongoing, asserting joint US-Israel operations have significantly destabilized it. He stated the regime, which vowed destruction against America and Israel, is being crushed. Netanyahu also hinted at new regional alliances being forged, emphasizing that Iran's substantial investment in its anti-Israel agenda has been futile.

The US is sending a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East as operations against Iran continue. The USS George H.W. Bush left Norfolk with destroyer escorts and is expected to reach the region in about three weeks.

U.S. Customs is developing a new system to process $166 billion in illegal tariff refunds, with the portal 60-85% complete. The agency aims to begin accepting claims in phases, prioritizing recent and suspended entries. This streamlined process aims to avoid individual lawsuits for importers seeking reimbursement.

Quote of the day by Vin Diesel: Hollywood star Vin Diesel shares a powerful lesson on chasing dreams, revealing his early struggles and return from California as a perceived failure. He emphasizes that talent alone isn't enough; resourcefulness, adaptability, and perseverance are crucial for overcoming setbacks and achieving success.

Tornado warning: Northeast Ohio experienced severe weather on Tuesday, with tornado warnings issued for Cuyahoga, Geauga, and Lake counties. Severe thunderstorms brought high winds and hail to multiple counties, causing widespread power outages. Residents were urged to seek shelter as storms moved rapidly through the region.

Nike stock NKE today: Nike's stock dipped after its latest earnings report. The company reported better-than-expected earnings per share and revenue. However, investors were not convinced about a strong turnaround. Sales for Converse dropped significantly. China also presented challenges for Nike. The company is working on improving its business.

Elon Musk crypto update 2026: Elon Musk is once again drawing attention to cryptocurrencies. His ongoing interest in Bitcoin and Dogecoin remains strong. Tesla and SpaceX hold significant amounts of Bitcoin. Musk believes Bitcoin is a superior store of value compared to fiat currency. His social media posts continue to influence Dogecoin's price movements.

IRS tax filing tips: The Internal Revenue Service is reminding everyone about the April 15 tax deadline. Fewer tax returns have been filed this year. The IRS offers a Tax Time Guide to help you file correctly and avoid penalties. If you owe money, pay as much as possible now. Payment plans are available. Use online tools for easy tax management.

Medicare Advantage deadline ends March 31, and missing it may lead to higher health costs for months. People can still switch plans or return to Original Medicare before the cutoff. Experts warn some users could face bigger drug costs, network issues, or fewer choices later. Free counseling is available, but acting now is important to avoid being stuck until the fall enrollment period.

April 2026 is a major month for HBO Max, highlighted by the return of Euphoria starring Zendaya and the final season of Hacks. New releases like Marty Supreme, Christy, and Alien: Romulus add cinematic appeal, while Half Man introduces fresh storytelling. Overall, the lineup blends returning favorites, new premieres, and nostalgic titles, offering something for every viewer and reinforcing HBO Maxs position as a leading streaming destination.

In a significant shake-up, Abhishek Singh, who spearheaded the IndiaAI Mission, will now take the helm as the director general of the National Testing Agency. This strategic move comes amid a broader bureaucratic realignment.

Ranjith was taken into custody following a complaint filed by a woman actor, who alleged that he attempted to sexually assault her on a film set, police said.

Who is Shelly Kittleson, and who has abducted US female journalist became a global concern after the kidnapping of Shelly Kittleson in Baghdad. The Iraqi Interior Ministry launched a search operation, arrested one suspect, and continues tracking the abductors. The United States is working with Iraqi authorities as press freedom groups warn about rising threats to journalists operating in conflict zones across Iraq.

Starting April 1, India has abolished the 10 lakh threshold on courier exports, a shift aimed at propelling e-commerce forward and supporting small enterprises. The introduction of a quick return mechanism for unclaimed parcels is also noteworthy, designed to alleviate shipping delays and enhance overall delivery efficiency for cross-border commerce.

New tax rules and budget changes begin April 1. Higher taxes on speculative stock trades will curb risky bets. Lower taxes on overseas travel packages and remittances for medical and education will benefit many. A new Income-tax Act simplifies filings. Changes also affect virtual digital assets and employee stock options.

After a first quarter marked by stop-and-start activity for IPOs, talk has turned to the implications of the raging conflict and the lingering effect of artificial intelligence scares. No wonder many listing candidates are sitting on their hands as a possible IPO for billionaire Elon Musk's rocket company, which could come as soon as June and dwarf every other debut, takes shape.

Tens of millions of drivers here can choose between filling their tank with 100 per cent sugarcane-based ethanol or a gasoline blend that contains 30 per cent of biofuel.

India is preparing a major reform plan. The government is focusing on self-reliance and strengthening domestic supply chains. This initiative aims to counter global disruptions. Actionable steps and quick wins are prioritized. The plan addresses short, medium, and long-term goals. Energy and fertiliser supplies are immediate concerns.