The Economic Times

Marco Rubio visited China with Donald Trump. Beijing altered the spelling of Rubio's name to bypass sanctions imposed in 2020. This linguistic change allowed his entry despite previous criticism of China's human rights record. The meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping focused on Taiwan. China warned of potential conflict over the island.

PBKS vs MI Pitch Report: Punjab Kings face Mumbai Indians under pressure after four consecutive losses. A washout would grant both teams a point, potentially keeping PBKS in the Top 4 temporarily. Rain threatens the crucial Dharamsala clash, with a 55-60% chance of precipitation impacting the game.

US President Donald Trump extended an invitation to Chinese leader Xi Jinping for a White House summit in September. Trump praised the strong bond between the two nations during his state visit to Beijing. He noted a positive and constructive discussion with Xi. The leaders expressed a desire for continued engagement and a stable partnership.

Researchers at the University of South Florida have uncovered the mechanism that makes reinforced rubber exceptionally strong, solving a scientific mystery that has persisted for nearly a century. Using around 1,500 molecular simulations, the team discovered that carbon black particles prevent rubber from thinning normally when stretched, forcing the material to resist volume changes and become much tougher.

Mortgage rate today climbs as Treasury yields jump and refinance pressure returns across the US housing market. The average 30-year fixed refinance rate rose to 6.54%, while standard 30-year mortgage rates touched 6.34%. Rising bond yields, sticky inflation, and cautious Federal Reserve signals are now pushing borrowing costs higher again. Homeowners who once waited for lower mortgage refinance rates are facing a different reality in todays market.

Chris Wood will lead New Zealand's football team at the World Cup. The squad aims to make history by securing their first-ever win. Wood, a prolific striker, expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete. The tournament begins next month. New Zealand faces Iran, Egypt, and Belgium in Group G.

Pakistan has successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile. This advanced weapon system is designed for long-range precision targeting.

Chennai Super Kings have signed Dian Forrester as a replacement for injured Jamie Overton. Forrester, a South African all-rounder, joins CSK for Rs 75 lakh. He made his international debut in March 2026. CSK hopes Forrester will contribute with bat and ball as the tournament enters its crucial phase. The team is currently fifth and faces Lucknow Super Giants next.

Russia launched its largest aerial assault over a two-day period, striking Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities with hundreds of drones and missiles. The attacks caused significant damage to infrastructure, including residential buildings, and resulted in at least 11 deaths. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy urged continued Western support for air defense.

Trump left JD Vance a secret 'If I Die' letter before his China trip, and the story is chilling as a counterterrorism official revealed that the president wrote instructions for the vice president in case he dies in office. The letter is stored in the Resolute Desk. Officials say the move reflects global security concerns and strong protocols during international travel, including the China trip and ongoing assassination threats.

The West Bengal government has introduced new rules for animal slaughter. Animals must now have a 'fit certificate' from authorities before being slaughtered. Slaughter in public places is strictly forbidden. These guidelines follow court orders and existing laws. Violators face penalties including imprisonment or fines. The aim is to ensure legal compliance and prevent inhumane practices.

The Delhi government has announced a set of new measures aimed at saving fuel and reducing unnecessary expenses, following Prime Minister Narendra Modis call for fuel conservation and mindful spending. As part of the initiative, the government plans to increase the use of online meetings and encourage virtual academic sessions in colleges and universities wherever possible.

Kannada actor Dileep Raj died after a suspected cardiac arrest, with reports suggesting a smartwatch reading may have delayed his seeking medical help. This incident highlights concerns about over-reliance on wearable technology for health reassurance, as experts emphasize that smartwatches are not substitutes for professional medical evaluation and urgent care should always be prioritized for concerning symptoms.

Delhi WFH advisory explained: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced a wide-ranging fuel-saving and cost-cutting campaign under Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdaan, urging private offices, IT companies, educational institutions and businesses to reduce travel and fuel use. The Delhi government will implement work from home for two days a week in government offices and advise private firms to follow the same model.

Netflix is officially returning to Silver Falls. During the streamers 2026 Upfronts presentation in New York City, the company announced that My Life with the Walter Boys has been renewed for a fourth season, even though Season 3 has yet to premiere.

Arunachal Pradesh receives a significant boost with Rs 4,900 crore from the Centre's new 'Pride of Hills' initiative. This funding targets critical infrastructure and development gaps in the state. Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed gratitude for the allocation. The initiative aims to improve connectivity and foster long-term economic growth in remote areas.

Telecom gear maker HFCL will invest Rs 230 crore to build a new defence manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The plant will produce Multi-Mode Hand Grenades and similar products. This facility is expected to be operational by December 2027. The investment will be funded through internal accruals, debt and convertible warrants.

The Maharashtra government has informed the Bombay High Court about a proposal for the posthumous Padma Vibhushan award for wrestler Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav. Jadhav was India's first individual Olympic medalist. The government will also submit a fresh proposal for the Padma Awards 2027. The court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by Jadhav's son's foundation.

The CBI has presented five individuals arrested in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case to a Delhi court. These accused were apprehended from various states, including Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Their alleged involvement in the exam leak necessitated their custodial interrogation. The NEET (UG) 2026 exam was previously cancelled due to paper leak allegations.

Fortnite requires server downtime during major patches because Epic Games deploys backend system updates, gameplay changes and new content simultaneously. The update is expected to include gameplay balancing, new map changes, storyline developments and possible Overwatch crossover content.

Henry Ford, a renowned industrialist, left behind timeless wisdom. His words warn against two paths to ruin: being too weak to protect gains or winning money through deceit. Both ultimately lead to loss. Ford stressed that true success involves more than just wealth. It requires wisdom, discipline, and strong moral values.

Rain in Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh braces for more heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds as the IMD issues orange alerts for Lucknow and Kanpur, with specific districts facing severe weather. Tragically, 104 lives were lost due to recent storms, prompting CM Yogi Adityanath to order immediate relief and compensation for affected families and livestock. New advanced weather forecasting systems have also been launched.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu will lay foundation stone for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme infrastructure at Sri Sathya Sai district in Andhra Pradesh. Several defence, aerospace, and drone manufacturing projects will also launch. This positions Andhra Pradesh as a key hub for these industries.

In a significant pivot in international relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump have unveiled a fresh strategy for their nations' partnership that prioritises collaboration while recognising necessary competition. This initiative aims to steer their diplomacy over the coming three years, fostering stability by keeping differences within bounds.

An accused in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case alleged that influential individuals are being protected while smaller players face action. The CBI arrested five individuals across three states, suspecting a multi-state network involving coaching institutes, courier services, and social media. Investigations are focusing on digital records and financial trails to uncover larger operators.

Strategic supply chains spanning semiconductors, rare earth minerals, aerospace and agricultural trade are expected to dominate bilateral discussions between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the ongoing US-China summit, according to a report by Rubix Data Sciences.

The Delhi High Court will start contempt proceedings. This action follows the circulation of extremely defamatory content against Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. The judge made this announcement in open court. The content is linked to the Delhi excise policy case. Justice Sharma stated she cannot remain silent. A detailed order will be passed later today.

Powerful thunderstorms swept across Uttar Pradesh, causing widespread destruction. At least 89 people died in the severe weather. Prayagraj, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Fatehpur, and Mirzapur were among the worst-hit districts. Homes were damaged, trees uprooted, and livestock perished. Authorities are assessing the damage and providing assistance to affected families.

Actress Shehnaaz Gill's presence at an IPL match has ignited dating rumors with RCB batter Devdutt Padikkal. Viral videos of her cheering for the team led fans to speculate about a personal connection, despite neither party confirming the rumors. The discussion intensified as social media users noted they don't follow each other on Instagram.

A medical body has urged the Supreme Court to overhaul the National Testing Agency (NTA) due to recurring NEET-UG paper leaks, calling it a direct assault on students' fundamental rights. The plea seeks a robust, autonomous system and a high-powered committee to ensure exam integrity, highlighting systemic failures and outdated security measures that jeopardize the future of over 22.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on Wednesday announced a 2 per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and teachers, providing a salary boost to lakhs of beneficiaries across the state. The revised allowance is expected to increase the financial burden on the state exchequer but comes as relief for employees amid rising living costs.

Kerala lottery results today: Kerala State Lottery Karunya Plus KN-623 results for Thursday, 14 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari announced significant progress on the Pandharpur pilgrimage route. Nearly 80 percent of the work is complete, with remaining stretches to be finished in four to six months. Dedicated lanes and Foot Over Bridges will enhance pilgrim safety. Major infrastructure projects, including the Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi Marg and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi Marg, are nearing completion.

An Ohio junior analyst says his former employer sent him a $3,000 training repayment bill after he quit for a better job, claiming a Zoom seminar teaching basic Excel shortcuts counted as specialized training. The viral Reddit post has sparked debate over controversial workplace clawback agreements and whether companies are using them as exit fees for quitting.

India's wholesale inflation reached an 8.3% peak in April, a 42-month high. Rising fuel, power, and crude oil prices fueled this surge. Experts predict inflation may climb further in May. Disruptions in West Asia and potential El Nino effects are key concerns. Consumers are shielded from retail fuel price hikes, but commercial LPG costs increased.

The Supreme Court has called for calm in the Kapur family trust dispute. The court urged Rani Kapur and Priya Kapur to avoid actions that could harm ongoing mediation. An amicable settlement is seen as beneficial for all parties involved. Failure to resolve the matter could lead to a lengthy legal battle over the family's assets and trust control.

Chinese President Xi Jinping invoked the Thucydides trap at his summit with US President Donald Trump, highlighting the risk of war between a rising and established superpower. The meeting aimed to manage escalating tensions amid trade disputes, Taiwan's status, and technological rivalry, acknowledging that competition must be controlled to avoid conflict.

India has strongly condemned an attack on an Indian-flagged ship near Oman. The nation stated that targeting civilian vessels is unacceptable. All Indian crew members on board are reported safe. India urged all parties to avoid actions that endanger civilian mariners or disrupt maritime trade. This incident highlights growing security worries in vital regional shipping lanes.

An explosion rocked an alleged illegal firecracker factory in Dewas district, Madhya Pradesh, on Thursday, with multiple casualties feared. Relief and rescue operations are underway, and injured individuals have been hospitalized. Senior officials are at the scene, though the exact nature of the factory's production remains unconfirmed.

Microsoft LinkedIn layoffs: LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, has announced layoffs impacting engineering, marketing, and other teams, with co-founder Reid Hoffman urging caution against attributing all tech job cuts solely to AI. He suggests that overhiring during the pandemic years is a significant, often overlooked, factor driving these reductions. The company aims to operate more profitably by focusing on key priorities and infrastructure investments.

Transform your Indian balcony with seven flowering plants that thrive on minimal care. From the sun-loving Desert Rose to the ever-faithful Sadabahar, this guide highlights the most resilient varieties that can withstand the Indian heat, providing year-round color without the need for constant watering or expert gardening skills.

Disastrous IPL campaigns are putting three captains in the hot seat, with sources indicating potential job losses at season's end. Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, and Rishabh Pant have struggled to lead their teams to playoff contention for two consecutive seasons. Will leadership changes be on the horizon for these franchises?

Nagaland lottery Sambad result today (14 May 2026): Nagaland State Lottery Sambad Dear Star Thursday Weekly draw results for 14 May 2026 have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 Crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.

Global music stars Shakira, Madonna and K-pop group BTS will headline the first-ever halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, with proceeds supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund aimed at expanding access to education and football for children worldwide