The Economic Times

Bank lending in the UAE is slowing down. Lenders are becoming more careful with new loans. This is happening because of the ongoing Iran conflict. Businesses in real estate and construction are finding it harder to get credit. Banks are setting aside more money to cover potential risks. Some businesses are now looking for private lenders.

New rules are set for companies managing their own provident fund trusts. Mandatory annual audits are replaced by a risk-based system. Interest rates offered by these trusts will now be capped. Exempted establishments can retain their status after mergers and acquisitions. These changes aim to strengthen oversight and improve ease of doing business.

India's Op Sindoor offers a model for modern warfare. Unlike protracted conflicts, it used calibrated force with clear objectives. The operation swiftly degraded Pakistani infrastructure and restored deterrence. This approach achieved mission goals within 88 hours. It highlights the importance of controlled escalation and disengagement for national interests and prestige.

India and Vietnam elevated their ties to an 'Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership', signing 13 MoUs focused on defense and economic cooperation, including banking and digital payments. Both nations aim to boost bilateral trade to $25 billion by 2030 and strengthen financial connectivity through central bank cooperation and linking payment systems.

Diageo has experienced an unforeseen surge in sales for the latest quarter, attributed to robust growth in Africa and Latin America that successfully counterbalanced a slowdown in the U.S. market. As the company upholds its annual forecast, it is simultaneously grappling with issues stemming from decreased consumer expenditure and shifting market dynamics.

Anthropic pre-IPO valuation explained: AI startup Anthropic's implied pre-IPO valuation has surged to a record $1.2 trillion, a 20% increase in just one week. This rapid ascent, driven by significant cloud and chip spending plans and strategic partnerships, positions Anthropic as a major player in the global tech landscape.

Quad foreign ministers will convene in Delhi to counter China's growing influence, focusing on critical minerals, technology, and supply chains. This meeting follows the US President's China visit. Meanwhile, Indian companies committed a record $20.5 billion in investments to the US, bolstering bilateral trade and strengthening supply chains, particularly in pharmaceuticals.

Chandranath Rath, personal assistant to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, was shot multiple times in North 24 Parganas district. The incident occurred Wednesday night in the Madhyamgram area. Rath was targeted on a public road and is receiving treatment at a private hospital. Police have launched an investigation into the attack.

Social Security May 2026 benefits update: The hidden calendar shift behind later SSA payments for millions of Americans. Social Security May 2026 payment schedule is trending across searches this week. Nearly 75 million Americans depend on these monthly benefits. This May feels different. Payments seem late at first glance. But the Social Security May 2026 payment schedule has not changed.

Thought of the day: Haruki Murakami has crafted a literary universe where the lines between reality and imagination often blur, yet his insights into human nature remain remarkably clear.

Chinese proverb of the day explains how a childs life is shaped by every interaction with parents, teachers, and society. The proverb compares childhood to paper that receives marks from everyone. The message highlights parenting, motherhood, education, human nature, mentorship, and responsibility. It reminds adults that daily words and actions influence development, values, personality, and life direction. The teaching encourages care, kindness, and awareness in every moment with children.

A new report says many Gen Z workers are facing job struggles as companies change hiring rules in the AI era. Experts say the issue is linked to changing work values, fewer beginner jobs, and different expectations between young employees and employers. As AI grows, Gen Z may need to rethink career choices and workplace habits to succeed.

Israel launched an airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs Wednesday, the first since an April 17 ceasefire, targeting a Hezbollah Radwan Force commander. This escalation follows continued fighting in southern Lebanon and previous major strikes on Beirut in early April. The unannounced attack marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

Hayden Panettiere has publicly come out as bisexual, sharing her journey in her new memoir. The actress revealed it was a scary experience dating women due to paparazzi and societal perceptions, but she is now comfortable sharing her truth. Panettiere also discussed her past struggles with abusive relationships and addiction.

An American fighter jet destroyed the rudder of an Iranian oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on Wednesday for attempting to breach a US blockade. The incident occurred despite an official ceasefire and ongoing negotiations for a war-ending agreement. US Central Command stated multiple warnings were issued to the vessel.

Sunetra Pawar has resigned from her Rajya Sabha seat. This comes just two days after her significant victory in the Baramati assembly bypoll. She secured a record margin of over 2 lakh votes. Pawar had become a Rajya Sabha member in June 2024. She was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on January 31.

President Donald Trump has signed a new national counterterrorism strategy. This plan prioritizes neutralizing threats in the Americas by crippling cartel operations. It also targets violent, anti-American political groups within the United States. The strategy aims to protect America's homeland. International partners will also be consulted on combating threats from Iran.

Barak Ravid and the Iran Leak Pipeline: The name Barak Ravid keeps appearing whenever sensitive Iran stories break in Washington. A new leak about Iranian responses to U.S. proposals. A private White House discussion. Israeli intelligence assessments. Anonymous officials shaping the narrative before formal policy announcements. Again and again, the same reporter lands at the center of the information cycle. That repetition has triggered a broader debate far bigger than one journalist. Is this si

Emaar Properties founder Mohamed Alabbar prioritizes discipline, commitment, and a strong work ethic over raw intelligence when hiring, particularly favoring Indian professionals. He believes consistent effort and attention to detail are crucial for success, stating that hard work can surpass talent. Alabbar also emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability for businesses to navigate global disruptions.

Scientists found signs of a giant squid in deep waters near Western Australia using DNA in seawater. The study also showed many unknown sea animals living in deep ocean canyons. This discovery helps experts learn more about hidden ocean life and why it is important to protect these deep-sea areas for the future and better research.

Under the operation, India launched a series of precision missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the early hours of May 7 last year eliminating at least 100 terrorists, in response to the horrific Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 innocent civilians.

India faces economic challenges from Middle East conflict. Energy prices and supply constraints strain finances. Rising bond yields, inflation, and a weakening rupee affect growth. Experts highlight energy and food security, and economic reforms as priorities. Self-sufficiency and diversification are crucial for India's resilience and investment appeal.

Quote of the day by Betty White highlights the message: Its not easy being a mom. If it were easy, fathers would do it. The quote reflects motherhood, family life, and daily responsibilities. This explainer covers the quote meaning, life lessons, relevance today, and the career story of Betty White, her television journey, awards, and achievements.

African proverb of the day: An African proverb reveals that losing often teaches more than winning. Mistakes force reflection, revealing weaknesses and driving improvement, unlike success which can be celebrated without deep examination. Embracing these uncomfortable lessons builds resilience, strengthens judgment, and ultimately guides individuals toward better decisions.

France's aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is now in the Red Sea. This move prepares for a possible mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The French-British plan aims to ensure safe passage for ships. The operation will start when threats decrease and shipping is reassured.

Iran's top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Wednesday that Washington was seeking Tehran's surrender through various means, including a naval blockade. The enemy, in its new design, is seeking, through a naval blockade, economic pressure and media manipulation, to destroy the country's cohesion in order to force us to surrender, Ghalibaf said in a voice message published on his official Telegram channel.

Vivek Ramaswamy has won the Ohio Republican primary. He is an Indian-origin American-born politician. Ramaswamy has repeatedly clashed with the MAGA movement. He managed to ride the MAGA wave despite provoking its base. His victory shows a complex relationship within the Trump loyalist crowd. Ramaswamy's strategy of provoking and then reinterpreting his arguments has proven successful.

Quote of the Day: Ted Turner, a media mogul, embodied relentless persistence, famously stating, You can never quit. Winners never quit, and quitters never win. His journey, marked by early setbacks and bold risks, led to the creation of CNN and a vast media empire. Turner's life exemplifies how unwavering determination, rather than avoiding failure, is the true hallmark of success.

WTI crude oil price crash today is shaking global commodity markets. Oil prices suddenly collapsed as traders rushed to remove geopolitical risk premiums from crude futures. WTI crude fell below key resistance levels. Brent crude oil also crashed more than 7% in one session. Investors are now searching for answers. The biggest trigger came from easing Middle East tensions and expectations of higher global oil supply. Markets also reacted to a massive short-selling position placed before reports

Global debt has reached a record nearly $353 trillion. Investors are now looking beyond U.S. Treasuries, showing more interest in Japanese and European government bonds. This shift is driven by differing debt trajectories. U.S. debt is expected to rise, while euro zone and Japan's debt paths are seen as more moderate. Corporate bond markets in the U.S. are booming.

Ted Turner cause of death: Ted Turner, the visionary founder of CNN and influential media entrepreneur, has died at the age of 87. Turner revolutionized global journalism by launching the worlds first 24-hour news network and reshaped cable television through ventures like TBS. He also owned the Atlanta Braves, leading the team through its most successful era, including a 1995 World Series win. His passing marks the end of a transformative era in broadcasting, sports ownership, and global commun

Operation Sindoor, launched after the Pahalgam attack, redefined India's security. It utilized drones and AI, prompting a military upgrade. India acquired advanced platforms like S-400 systems and Rafale jets. New submarines and missile tests bolster defense. This response to terrorism enhanced India's combat readiness and strategic goals.

US stock market today: Dow Jones jumps 650 points, Nasdaq surges as AMD stock explodes 19%, oil crashes, and AI optimism reshapes Wall Street. Chipmakers and geopolitics collide on a volatile Wednesday morning as the market is betting heavily that a ceasefire framework is closer than anyone expected. Oil prices crashed as hopes of a U.S.-Iran peace deal eased inflation fears. Bond yields fell. The dollar weakened. Gold surged above 4,700.

A simple aluminum foil test can help find why a wall has damp spots. It shows if the problem is humidity or water leaking inside. This quick method helps people understand moisture issues early without tools. Fixing the cause fast can prevent wall damage, mold growth, and health problems, making homes safer and more comfortable to live in.

India saw a six percent drop in crimes in 2024. Over 58 lakh cases were reported, down from 62 lakh in 2023. The crime rate per lakh population also decreased. Cases of 'Hurt' saw a significant decline. Murder cases reduced marginally. Crimes against women and Scheduled Castes and Tribes also showed a dip. These figures reflect the latest crime statistics.

Newly elected West Bengal MLAs show a significant increase in criminal cases. Over 65 percent declared criminal charges, a jump from the previous election. Wealth concentration also rose, with 61 percent being crorepatis. This trend highlights growing concerns about criminalisation of politics and wealth in the state's legislature.

Ted Turner net worth: The news of Ted Turners death comes years after he publicly disclosed his diagnosis of Lewy body dementia in 2018. Despite ongoing health challenges, Turner remained a towering presence in media, philanthropy and business.

A consensus to this effect was arrived at the 2nd BRICS Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting under Indias presidency in Kerala with delegation from China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa and UAE along with knowledge partners like the International Labour Organization, International Social Security Association and United Nations India.

African Proverb of the Day: If you want to know the end, look at the beginning highlights the deep connection between origins and outcomes. It teaches that nothing in life happens suddenly; instead, results are shaped by early decisions, actions, and intentions. The timeless proverb encourages awareness, foresight, and responsibility in how we begin any journey, whether in relationships, work, or personal growth.

The trade ministers of the Group of Seven leading industrialised nations criticised Wednesday economic coercion by placing arbitrary restrictions on exports, particularly critical minerals, in a clear swipe at China. We express our grave concerns regarding economic coercion, including coercion through arbitrary export restrictions that may lead to supply chain disruptions, notably for critical minerals, and undermine economic security and resilience, the ministers said.

Mel Gibson famously described Hollywood as a factory. He believes actors are replaceable parts in a demanding industry. If not for films, Gibson would have pursued a career as a chef. He enjoys cooking, especially Malaysian Laksa. Gibson also admitted to a love for chocolate. He achieved global fame with Mad Max and Lethal Weapon.

AMD stock up nearly 19% today after blockbuster earnings beat. Something shifted in the semiconductor world on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. AMD stock didn't just rise it lunged. Shares of Advanced Micro Devices climbed 18.9% in a single session, adding more than $110 billion in market value in one day. And if you look closely at what drove them, you start to see a much bigger story about where AI infrastructure is actually heading.