The Economic Times

Palau plans a significant US military port expansion next year. This project aims to berth US Navy ships and deepen the harbor. Locals worry about becoming a target in potential superpower conflicts. Environmentalists express concerns about marine life and coral reef damage. The government seeks assurances for safety and environmental protection during construction.

Indias affluent investors are moving beyond traditional savings towards diversified portfolios, alternative assets, professional advice, and longer-term wealth planning. Read on to know where the money is flowing!

Psychology says people who are not able to speak properly in front of a crowd aren't incapable or less intelligent. Public speaking anxiety can trigger the body's survival response, leading to a racing heart, sweating, muscle tension and difficulty recalling words. Psychology links this reaction to social rejection, fear of negative evaluation and learned responses. Understanding the process can help people prepare, reframe anxiety and build confidence through gradual exposure.

Wind turbines can last for decades against the punishing winds, but what happens when they reach the end of their lives? A group of researchers from China did the impossible they came across a technology which would transform the blades to concrete for making roads.

Consumer watchdog investigates Apple for potential iOS 18 user rights violations. This probe follows numerous complaints regarding device malfunctions after the software update. The authority also imposed a significant penalty on ride-hailing platform Rapido. Rapido was fined for employing misleading interface designs and dark patterns. These practices were found to steer customers towards higher payments for rides.

Entry-level smartphones with 2GB or 3GB RAM are making a comeback. Brands like Itel and Lava are targeting this segment with new models. Major brands have shifted focus to premium phones, leaving a market gap. Shipments in this segment have significantly declined due to rising costs. However, demand for budget phones remains strong, especially in smaller towns.

Air India's board met to discuss operational priorities and remuneration for incoming CEO Tewolde Gebremariam. Outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson presented the airline's current operational position and progress made. Chairman N Chandrasekaran outlined expectations for the new leadership's focus on reliability and execution. Gebremariam will now lead the airline's demanding turnaround stage and integration efforts. The board also acknowledged Wilson's contributions to Air India's transformational jour

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited is pursuing coal gasification and coal-to-chemicals opportunities. The company expects progress in hydro power and pumped-storage projects this fiscal year. This strategic shift follows a recent assessment regarding its Maharatna company status. BHEL holds a substantial executable order book, with thermal business as its main anchor. The firm aims to build growth in non-thermal sectors as the power industry evolves.

Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages is set to invest over Rs 1000 crore in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on enhancing beverage production. A new manufacturing unit will be built in Vizianagaram, complementing the expansion of an existing facility. This strategic move, sanctioned by the State Investment Promotion Committee, aims to meet the increasing demand for beverages across southern India.

Dhaka is reviewing one hundred and one agreements signed with New Delhi. Bureaucrats trained in India over the past decade may face scrutiny. The ruling party alleges past governments compromised national interests with a friendly nation. Goods-laden vehicles from that country were reportedly allowed free road use.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the landscape of entertainment production, offering creators remarkable cost savings. Smaller production companies can now bring projects to life while maintaining their intellectual property rights. With generative AI at the forefront, content creation in areas like audio and microdramas is already gaining momentum. This shift is predicted to ripple across film and high-quality scripted series, leading to significant growth in innovation and content ou

Flipkart plans to hire over 250,000 workers for the upcoming festive season. This significant recruitment drive will increase last-mile delivery positions by 60 percent. Approximately 75,000 new workers will be entering the workforce for the first time. The company is expanding its delivery network with new hubs and employment opportunities. This expansion aims to meet rising customer demand during the Big Billion Days event.

El Nio effect: El Nio has left more than 50% of India grappling with drought conditions, severely affecting kharif crops currently in the fields. Maharashtra has been particularly hard hit, with extreme drought affecting a large part of its agricultural areas. Other key agricultural states are also experiencing varying levels of drought, raising concerns about crop yields and soil moisture levels as winter sowing approaches.

The United States has sought details from India on the use of rice for ethanol production. Washington has alleged that Indias rice stocks exceed food security requirements, affecting global trade. Indias price support policies have also been cited as contributing to higher domestic rice supplies. The World Trade Organization is expected to discuss these concerns later this month. Indias allocation of rice for ethanol production has reportedly increased significantly.

US lawmakers are considering tariffs on Russia's oil trading partners, including India. One amendment proposes 100% tariffs on countries like India and China. Another amendment seeks to remove the tariff provision entirely from the bill. India's energy sourcing policy prioritizes national interests amid these developments.

The Enforcement Directorate aims to expedite money-laundering trials within eight months. Zonal offices will identify key cases for accelerated prosecution and conviction. A new trial monitoring system will track case progress and delays. The agency is also expanding its sanctioned strength by sixty percent. This structural change will enhance the directorate's operational capabilities significantly.

Indias goods exports surged in August, driven by robust global demand, while the trade deficit narrowed to a five-month low as imports declined. Key free trade agreements are on track for finalisation, while exporters are being prepared for the European Unions Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Trade ministers are also set to address bilateral concerns and review the status of ongoing free trade negotiations.

Trade agreements beyond the multilateral trading system can also offer examples whereby unilateral enforcement mechanisms have been tailored to the particular market access outcome arrived upon, according to the WTOs World Trade Report 2026. Given the target-based structure of the FDI commitment, the parties chose an enforcement mechanism which would permit India to unilaterally reimpose tariffs if it determined that the targets had not been met, the WTO said.

Sivakumar Sundaram highlighted the importance of collective purpose at The Economic Times awards, urging awardees to utilize recognition as a foundation for ongoing contributions. He addressed the swift evolution of AI and stressed the necessity for aligning human values with technology. Cautioning against becoming overly reliant on devices, he emphasized that maintaining relevance demands a continual showcase of one's value and capability.

Nelson Mandela's wisdom teaches us the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. He championed the fight against apartheid and racial oppression in South Africa. His insights remind us that failure is merely a stepping stone on our path. Embracing our failures with an optimistic mindset can yield true success. By learning from our setbacks, we rediscover our strength to rise again.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the BJP's uniform civil code approach. He stated the bill should be introduced in Parliament, not through individual states. Abdullah argued that implementing the code state-by-state would not make it universal. He noted that not all NDA allies agree with the uniform civil code proposal. The Chief Minister emphasized Parliament represents the entire country, not individual states.

After vanishing for decades, the New World screwworm has made a distressing return to the United States. To address this threat, scientists have created an advanced tracking system designed to foresee potential infestations. The U.S. is leveraging the Sterile Insect Technique, which has previously demonstrated success. Coordinated actions are underway to ensure this parasite does not regain its former presence throughout the country.

On December 8, GE Renewable Energy initiated a partnership with French waste management firm Veolia to recycle old blades from onshore wind turbines in the United States. The programme gave outdated turbine blades a new chance at life as a component of cement, making it the first recycling deal of its sort in the American wind energy industry.

Donald Trump's childhood residence in Queens has recently fetched $1.93 million. This charming Tudor-style home, featuring five bedrooms, had fallen into notable disrepair prior to its restoration. A diligent developer poured in $500,000 and spent eight months revitalising the property. This house provides a fascinating window into the early years of the once-future president, located within the prestigious Jamaica Estates neighbourhood, which his father transformed into a thriving empire.

The Reserve Bank of India supports Merchant Discount Rate on large UPI transactions. This move aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of India's digital payments ecosystem. New provisions will apply MDR to person-to-merchant transactions exceeding two thousand rupees. Person-to-person transactions and smaller merchant payments will remain free of charge.

A new merchant discount rate will fund UPI's expanding infrastructure costs. Large value person-to-merchant transactions above two thousand rupees will incur a fee. This framework shields small merchants and everyday consumer transactions from charges. The revenue distribution aims to support issuing banks and payment applications. This policy seeks to ensure UPI's long-term financial sustainability and accessibility.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority has begun a detailed investigation into Apple's iPhone technical issues. This action follows a year of ongoing complaints from users after the iOS 18 update. A recent survey shows increased iPhone user complaints, which will aid the authority's probe. LocalCircles advocates for a class action, noting users await a proper fix.

India is taking proactive steps by establishing a committee dedicated to assisting exporters in fulfilling the EU carbon tax requirements. This month, Indian verifiers are granted access to the EU's carbon tax registry, and from September 2027, domestic exporters will be mandated to submit returns. The government is actively collaborating with exporters to facilitate compliance and streamline verification efforts.

Indias gold imports declined significantly in August following an increase in customs duty, while silver imports rose sharply during the month. However, during the April-August period, cumulative gold imports increased, whereas silver imports declined. Switzerland remained the largest source of gold imports, accounting for a significant share.

Dhiraj Bommadevara, a 25-year-old youth from Andhra Pradesh, made Indian proud by winning the men's individual title at the Archery World Cup Final 2026. Business tycoon Anand Mahindra took to X to congratulate the youth on his milestone and also wondered if the golden age of Indian archery has arrived.

Trade data: August saw a notable rise in Indias merchandise exports to both the US and China, with shipments recording strong year-on-year growth. Imports from the two countries also increased significantly during the month. From April to August, Indias exports to the US grew by more than 6%, while exports to Singapore surged sharply, highlighting varied trends in the countrys international trade.

The NCLAT stressed insolvency proceedings are time-bound and appeals must be filed promptly. An appeal against a revival order was rejected for exceeding the allowed time. The tribunal noted a maximum 15-day condonable period for delayed filings. The suspended director's explanation for delay was deemed insufficient by the bench. Consequently, the appeal was declared not maintainable and dismissed by the NCLAT.

AU Small Finance Bank appointed two new senior executives to its leadership team. Anil Agarwal and Amol Padhye joined the bank as part of its strategic expansion. These appointments precede the bank's planned transition into a universal bank. AU received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India. The bank must complete this significant transition within eighteen months.

Talk about cool recycling! Old wind turbine blades are getting a second life as stylish sneakers. Spanish companies are turning this waste into awesome new products. They chop up the blades, mix them with rubber, and voil new shoe soles! It's a neat sign of how the renewable energy world is getting more sustainable.

Northern Railway has introduced an OTP-based digital luggage locker system at four major railway stations in Delhi, allowing passengers to store and retrieve their luggage independently and securely without assistance from railway staff. The facility is currently operational at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations, while Anand Vihar Terminal and Delhi Junction will become operational shortly. Passengers can use their mobile numbers for OTP verification, making the process of storing and coll

Yes Bank has approached the Supreme Court challenging a recent Delhi High Court directive. The court ordered a forensic audit into the sale of Fortis Healthcare shares. Yes Bank argues it was not a party to the original arbitration proceedings. However, the bank does not oppose auditing Fortis and its former promoters. It will provide relevant transaction information within legal limits.

Saatvik Green Energy has clinched a substantial Rs 1,041.63 crore order from SECI to supply solar PV modules. This pivotal agreement, set to be fulfilled by December 2027, underscores a significant milestone for the renewable energy landscape. With this contract, Saatvik solidifies its position as a key player in advancing clean energy initiatives, promoting sustainable practices and innovation.

Beneath San Franciscos bustling streets lies a forgotten maritime past. During the Gold Rush of 1849, thousands of fortune seekers arrived in ships that were abandoned promptly when they felt in search of gold. By 1851, more than 800 vessels crowded Yerba Buena Cove, transforming its once-muddy shores into a forest of towering masts.

State Bank of India is expanding its wealth management services to existing customers. The bank aims to manage significant investments for affluent clients. SBI is also developing new growth engines like acquisition financing. These initiatives are projected to enhance shareholder value over time. Analysts suggest these new ventures will take time to impact profits.

India's economy shows resilience despite global geopolitical and financial challenges. Strong bank credit and GST collections support this positive economic outlook. Rising global interest rates and oil prices introduce volatility after a calm period. India's Chief Economic Adviser emphasizes the need for adaptation and innovation. Private sector investment and R&D are crucial for future economic growth.

An IndiGo flight from Agartala to Delhi diverted to Lucknow after a cargo hold smoke alert. Emergency teams responded to the IndiGo flight which landed safely with 103 passengers and 6 crew members. This incident follows recent similar alerts involving Air India Express flights.

New UPI rules will introduce a 0.02% merchant discount rate for capital market transactions. This special rate applies to mutual funds and investment platforms, capped at Rs 300. Standard person-to-merchant UPI payments above Rs 2,000 will attract a 0.4% charge. Other sectors like railways and telecom will see a flat Rs 5 fee. These changes aim to support UPI infrastructure and keep consumer payments free.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories has taken a significant step in cancer care with the introduction of NIVORZ, a biosimilar of nivolumab. Designed to enhance immune response against a variety of cancers, this new treatment has received approval from the DCGI for twelve specific indications. By making this intravenous therapy available, Dr Reddy's aims to broaden access to affordable, high-quality cancer care options for patients in need.

UPI transactions up to Rs 2,000 will remain free for all users. A new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) will apply to specified merchant payments above Rs 2,000. The revised framework aims to support investment in UPI infrastructure, innovation and cybersecurity. Most person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions will remain unaffected by the changes. The updated provisions will take effect from October 15, 2026.

US high school students are transforming plastic bottles into 3D-printer filament. This recycled material is then used to create essential tools for community clean-up efforts. The project, called Project Respindle, aims to establish a circular economy at a local level. Students collect plastic waste and process it into usable equipment for environmental organizations. This initiative demonstrates how technology can enhance recycling and promote environmental action.

Passenger car sales increased by over a third in August, reaching 439,309 units. This growth followed a decline in the previous year due to GST rate changes. Three-wheeler and two-wheeler sales also saw significant rises during the month. Industry experts anticipate continued strong demand through the festive season. Manufacturers are preparing for further sales increases with new model launches.

Hotels around the world are increasingly adopting generative AI technology, but fewer than 10% report meaningful reductions in manual work, highlighting a gap between adoption and tangible benefits. Many hotels are opting to enhance their existing systems rather than invest in entirely new platforms, creating challenges in using AI effectively for better decision-making.