The Economic Times

In a collective effort in 2018, over 6,000 volunteers joined the BashTheBug project, focusing on tuberculosis bacteria images. Utilizing the Zooniverse platform, they gathered crucial data on antibiotic resistance through crowd-sourced analysis. Participants meticulously assessed photographs to evaluate bacterial growth under varying antibiotic conditions. Remarkably, their findings resonated with those of seasoned experts, reinforcing the integrity of the evaluations.

The Centre has declared 18,093 villages Adarsh Grams under the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY), while 785 student hostels have been completed, the Social Justice Ministry said. The scheme supports infrastructure development, livelihoods and educational access for Scheduled Caste communities, with Rs 1,730 crore released to states between 2021-22 and 2025-26.

Axis Bank Q2 Results: Private lender Axis Bank on Saturday reported a net profit of Rs 7,003 crore for the second quarter of FY27, marking a jump of 38% from Rs 5,089 crore posted in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

Nicholas Sleeps investment philosophy emphasises independent thinking, patience, and understanding business fundamentals. His successful Nomad Investment Partnership demonstrated the value of identifying high-quality businesses, assessing sustainable competitive advantages, and focusing on long-term value rather than daily price movements. He advocated disciplined research, selective diversification, emotional control, continuous learning, and adapting decisions when circumstances change.

Fairfax Financial Holdings $5.6 billion acquisition of a controlling stake in IDBI Bank is significant not just for being the biggest foreign investment in Indias banking sector, but also because the transaction was handled without the involvement of major investment banks. Fairfax and IDBI Bank did not launch a formal process to appoint financial advisers, while KPMG advised the government on the sale and two professional agencies helped determine the governments fair valuation.

Over the five trading sessions ended October 16, the Sensex gained 3.11%, or 2,257 points, to close at 74,729. The benchmark index closed higher in three of the five sessions between October 12 and 16. Amid the broader market rally, around 22 BSE 500 stocks advanced in each of the five consecutive trading sessions. Of these, we identified 15 stocks that gained consistently throughout the period, delivering cumulative returns ranging from 5% to 25%. (Data Source: ACE Equity)

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The Finance Ministry clarified the legislative developments regarding IDBI Bank's government stake in 2003. An amendment to restrict the dilution of the government's ownership was proposed but ultimately rejected during parliamentary discussions. The ministry highlighted that this issue was previously examined by the Delhi High Court. This examination took place in the case of All India IDBI Officers' Association v. Union of India & Others.

The Indian IT sector experienced an impressive surge, achieving its highest weekly increase in 18 years, driven by unexpectedly strong quarterly results from companies like HCLTech. The Nifty IT index jumped 11.7%, amidst falling semiconductor stock prices in Asia. Furthermore, the rupee showed notable strength, closing below the 95-mark for the first time in 38 days, reflecting the effective measures implemented by the Reserve Bank of India.

AISA president Neha Bora was released early Saturday after being taken into preventive custody ahead of the 'Lehra Do Tiranga' protest march at Connaught Place on Friday. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, who was also detained, was arrested under relevant BNSS provisions and will be produced before the SEM court.

The move would mark the next legal step for the lender after the apex court upheld the Bombay High Court judgment quashing the March 2020 write-down of the AT1 instruments issued by Yes Bank.

Panasonic has recently appointed Japanese executives to senior roles in its Indian operations. The company is restructuring its leadership back to an expat-led model after focusing on Indian leadership. Former executives, such as Manish Sharma and Sandeep Sehgal, have left the company, leading to significant changes in strategy. Panasonic has downsized its operations and streamlined its product offerings to focus on air-conditioners.

HSBC has deployed more than half of its $1 billion loan commitment to Indian startups within a year of launching its innovation banking platform. The British lender has reported strong demand across consumer technology, e-commerce and enterprise software, and is open to increasing its funding allocation. HSBC Global Head of Innovation Banking David Sabow said the bank expects to add at least 500 clients in India over the next year.

In responses to the regulator's consultation paper on insurance distribution reforms, some industry participants said automobile manufacturers and dealers influence commissions, discounting and repair costs, which could blunt the impact of the proposed curbs on intermediary remuneration, according to people aware of the matter.

Theodoros Kokkalas, chief operating officer of ERGO International said greater predictability would help insurers make long-term business plans. We make plans, and today making long-term plans is like science fiction in the dynamic environment that we live in, he said. While India's general insurance industry is struggling to bring its combined ratio below 100%, with the industry average at 110-115% and ERGO is targeting a ratio of 80-85%, Kokkalas said there was no standard timeline for a marke

The Supreme Court has mandated the central government to provide details on the implementation of menstrual hygiene rights. This ruling emphasises that menstrual hygiene is crucial for Article 21 of the Constitution. The court is apprehensive about the effective execution of this directive in remote areas. Chief secretaries from non-complying states may face contempt proceedings for failing to respond.

The US budget deficit for fiscal 2026 rose to $1.99 trillion, driven by increased tariff refunds and spending. Total spending for the year reached a record $7.40 trillion, while total receipts were $5.40 trillion. Net tariff receipts fell significantly, contributing to the deficit increase as refunds reached $145 billion. The debt-service outlays recorded a new high of $1.36 trillion during this fiscal year.

The total valuation of businesses run by individuals under 35 in India rose significantly this year. The number of young business leaders increased from 155 to 180, showing notable growth. A total of 37 companies on the list are valued at over $1 billion, employing more than 5.88 lakh people. Meanwhile, the emergence of founders in the artificial intelligence sector has quadrupled.

At just 12 years old, Evan LaBelle discovered his passion for 3D printing, which ultimately led him to establish Autotiv Manufacturing. His company currently boasts an expansive production facility equipped with over 200 3D printers, catering to the aerospace and robotics sectors. Honored as Young Entrepreneur of the Year, LaBelle is celebrated for his innovative contributions and dedication to community.

Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) aims for 18-20 percent growth in total advances for the fiscal year 2027. The bank focuses on retail, agriculture, and MSME lending, which constitutes 86 percent of its advances. Though corporate lending will be increased, high-value loans will be capped at 20 percent going forward. Gold loans are expected to see significant growth supported by lower borrowing costs.

Yes Bank is examining the Supreme Court ruling regarding the write-down of Additional Tier-1 bonds. The Supreme Court upheld a prior Bombay High Court decision that quashed the bank's March 2020 action. Following the judgment, the bank is considering its legal options and future steps. The Reserve Bank of India and Yes Bank had previously appealed the High Court's ruling.

Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals reported a 65 percent increase in consolidated net profit for the September quarter. The company's revenue from operations also jumped by 18.15 percent compared to the previous year. Significant revenue growth was achieved in the electric consumer durable segment, especially in fans and appliances. Overall, the company's total income surged by 18.24 percent in the same period.

Inside the Bharat D2C Conclave 2026, which brought founders, investors and policymakers together to discuss the business decisions shaping Indias direct-to-consumer (D2C) ecosystem, from scaling revenues and expanding distribution to using customer data and navigating regulatory requirements.

Cult.fit has received Sebi observations for its proposed IPO, comprising a fresh issue of up to Rs 950 crore and an offer for sale. Revenue rose 36.26% in FY26, while adjusted EBITDA margin improved significantly as fitness operations expanded nationwide.

The Reserve Bank of India has approved the merger of Emirates NBD Bank's Indian branches with RBL Bank. This amalgamation will officially take effect on December 1, 2026, according to the central bank's announcement. Emirates NBD Bank initially opened its first Indian branch in Mumbai in 2017, expanding later to Gurugram and Chennai. The Finance Ministry had previously approved Emirates NBD's acquisition of a significant stake in RBL Bank.

DLF reported a 11% year-on-year increase in July-September net profit to Rs 1,301 crore, with sales bookings reaching Rs 3,800 crore. Its Aureva luxury retirement project in Gurugram sold out, while the company maintained a strong net cash position.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank plans to raise Rs 409 crore through a preferential share allotment to IFC and three insurers at Rs 64.73 per share. The bank also reported a 200% year-on-year jump in Q2 net profit to Rs 365 crore.

Gold rate, silver price were up on Friday but both precious metals were jolted by weekly losses.

Federal Bank posted record Q2 profit of Rs 1,386 crore, up 45% year-on-year, as net interest income climbed 26%. Advances grew 22% and deposits 19%, while asset quality improved, with gross NPAs declining to 1.32% during the September quarter.

Five BSE 500 stocksShyam Metalics, PVR Inox, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Indian Hotels and Laurus Labshit fresh 52-week highs as the Sensex gained 413 points. All five stocks posted monthly gains of around 8% to 15%, signalling positive momentum.

LTM reported a marginal 0.1% decline in Q2 FY27 profit to Rs 1,379.9 crore, while revenue rose 13.6% to Rs 11,807.6 crore. Enterprise AI and Business AI revenue grew 47%, and the company declared an interim dividend of Rs 25.

Bajaj Housing Finance reported an 18% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY27 profit to Rs 757 crore, while net interest income increased 10%. Assets under management grew 25% to Rs 1.58 lakh crore, with asset quality remaining largely stable.

Federal Bank has appointed Rajesh Varrier as a non-executive independent director on its board. This decision follows the announcement of the bank's impressive financial results for the September quarter. Varrier previously served as president of global operations at Cognizant and brings extensive management experience. The bank reported a significant rise in net profit and net interest income in comparison to last year.

Urban Company reported a net loss of Rs 182 crore in Q2FY27 as investments in its quick services business, InstaHelp, weighed on profitability. Revenue rose 41% year-on-year to Rs 537 crore, while orders grew 103%. The company also approved a fresh capital raise of up to Rs 2,500 crore, subject to shareholder approval.

Indian equities extended gains as strong IT earnings lifted sentiment, with the Nifty rising 149 points to 23,146 and Sensex gaining 413 points. Tech Mahindra led advances, while broader markets slipped. Analysts flagged 23,000 as crucial for further upside.

Swiggy Limited has completed the sale of its shareholding in Lynks Logistics Limited to Trustroot Internet Private Limited. The transaction was executed through its subsidiary, Swiggy Networks Limited, and concluded on October 15, 2026. This sale follows previous communication from Swiggy on September 7, 2026, about the intended transaction. Consequently, Lynks Logistics is no longer a subsidiary of either Swiggy Networks or Swiggy Limited.

The strategic sale of IDBI Bank to Canadas Fairfax Financial Holdings is expected to be completed by the end of FY27, subject to RBI approval, DIPAM Secretary Arunish Chawla said. Fairfax will acquire a 60.72% stake from the government and LIC for about Rs 53,000 crore, in what the government described as a major step in the banks long-delayed privatisation.

Yes Bank is expected to post a 48% YoY jump in Q2 net profit to Rs 969 crore, driven by robust loan growth and higher NII. However, investor focus remains on the Supreme Court ruling invalidating its Rs 8,415 crore AT-1 bond write-off, which has pressured the stock.

Nuvama Institutional Equities has initiated coverage on Laurus Labs with a Buy rating and a target price of Rs 2,520, implying a 24% upside from the current market price. The brokerage expects the drugmakers shift from its traditional anti-retroviral (ARV) business towards contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) to drive its next phase of growth.

DP World is ready to increase its investment in India between USD 3 billion and USD 5 billion in the coming years. The company urges for faster infrastructure development and quicker project approvals to unlock trade potential. Despite challenges, Narayan believes that India remains attractive due to its growing economic scale. Enhanced logistics capacity is critical for supporting India's manufacturing and export growth.

Mukesh Ambani is mobilising Reliance Industries workforce to boost interest in Jio Platforms record IPO. The conglomerate has encouraged employees to consider investing, released October salaries early and set aside shares for eligible employees and Reliance shareholders.

Yami Gautam has dismissed reports that she received a hefty cheque for her cameo in Dhurandhar: The Revenge. On Madhuri Dixit's Kon Honaar Crorepati, she said working with director Aditya Dhar was priceless.

Anxiety cant be controlled before the starting line. Breaking your preparation into small tasks can help you reduce it and prepare you for D-Day.