The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Eckhart Tolle: Eckhart Tolle's quote emphasizes living in the present moment, as it's all we truly have. By focusing on the Now, individuals can reduce stress, improve emotional balance, and find greater clarity and peace. This mindfulness approach, popularized by Tolle, encourages appreciating simple moments and taking responsibility for one's experience.

Jewish Proverb of the Day: A timeless Jewish proverb emphasizes that acquiring wisdom and understanding is far more valuable than material wealth like gold and silver. This ancient teaching remains relevant today, guiding individuals to prioritize inner riches, ethical decision-making, and meaningful relationships over mere financial gain for a more fulfilling life.

US Treasury yields today: Global bond markets are experiencing unease. Rising oil prices and persistent inflation are reshaping interest rate expectations in the US and globally. US Treasury yields are climbing as inflation fears intensify. This situation is causing investors to rethink Federal Reserve rate cut possibilities. UK bond markets are also facing pressure.

Air India Flights: Rumors of Air India suspending all international flights until July 2026 are misleading. The airline has temporarily reduced services on select routes due to rising costs and geopolitical tensions, not a complete cancellation. Flights to major global destinations continue, though some long-haul sectors face reduced frequency.

Consumers are rushing to buy bridal jewellery across India. This surge follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for austerity measures. Jewellers report a significant increase in sales. Customers fear higher import duties or GST on gold. Many are advancing purchases planned for later in the year. This buying frenzy is driven by uncertainty and cultural significance of gold.

The famous quote Big things have small beginnings from Lawrence of Arabia highlights the importance of patience, persistence, and believing in gradual progress. The saying reminds people that major achievements rarely happen overnight and often begin with small actions, simple ideas, or uncertain first steps. It encourages individuals not to underestimate humble beginnings or feel discouraged by slow progress.

Airlines are experiencing weak forward bookings and muted growth plans due to high airfares and a weaker rupee, following a call to postpone foreign travel. While large-scale cancellations haven't occurred, the focus is shifting towards boosting domestic tourism and its economic benefits.

Rani Kapur has turned to the Supreme Court in an effort to block Priya Kapur from disrupting the RK Family Trust along with five affiliated businesses. Her plea comes just in time for a mediation process orchestrated by the court. Rani claims Priya is attempting an unlawful takeover of family resources.

The statistics ministry has adjusted the release date for provisional GDP estimates and fourth-quarter data to June 7 annually, moving from the last working day of May. This change, driven by data availability delays, will see FY26 provisional GDP and Q4FY26 data released on June 5.

India has launched its significant Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool. The initiative aims to bolster domestic maritime trade by reducing dependence on foreign insurers. The pool offers a substantial sovereign guarantee, ensuring continuous insurance coverage for vessels. This move provides crucial assurance for India's growing maritime sector. The first insurance covers have now been issued to key entities.

Rahul Gandhi convened a meeting with the Kerala Congress leadership to navigate the party's chief ministerial options. During the discussion, he sought valuable feedback on key candidates, spotlighting the dynamics of recent public advocacy. Leaders expressed their inclinations toward KC Venugopal, VD Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala, while the Indian Union Muslim League is preparing to contribute their perspective.

A major private hospital group warns of a crisis for advanced cancer patients under the Central Government Health Scheme. A reimbursement cap on life-saving immunotherapy drugs is creating financial strain for hospitals. This policy threatens patient access to essential treatments. The association has identified nine specific drugs that are now out of reach for many beneficiaries.

New research indicates that stronger grip strength and the ability to easily stand from a chair are powerful predictors of a longer, healthier life for older women. A study found that greater muscle strength was linked to significantly lower mortality risk, even when accounting for physical activity and other health factors.

Indian banks foresee robust corporate loan growth this fiscal year. Demand is surging from key sectors including renewable energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing. Major lenders like SBI and Bank of Baroda report strong loan pipelines. This expansion signals a positive outlook for business lending across the country. However, banks face liquidity challenges in sustaining this growth.

NEET-UG 2026 paper leak: Despite recommendations from the K Radhakrishnan Committee following the 2024 NEET-UG crisis, the National Testing Agency (NTA) faces renewed scrutiny over alleged paper leaks for NEET-UG 2026. Basic security measures like functional CCTV surveillance remain a challenge, raising concerns about the implementation of proposed reforms.

Vodafone Idea's board will meet on May 16 to discuss a significant fundraising plan, aiming to secure fresh capital through equity and warrants. This move is crucial for the debt-laden telco to strengthen its financial position, fund network upgrades, and compete effectively against rivals.

Renewable energy and power ministries will convene Wednesday to address industry concerns regarding the deviation settlement mechanism and curtailment of green power. Stricter grid compliance rules have raised viability issues for renewable energy projects, prompting ongoing discussions and government examination of these critical matters.

In a disconcerting turn of events, the National Testing Agency finds itself embroiled in fresh controversy following serious allegations of examination paper leaks. This development echoes past challenges faced in 2024 and multiple blunders in 2026, including disruptive power failures and incorrect answer keys.

Canara Bank saw a 10% dip in net profit last quarter, mainly due to treasury losses. The bank is now prioritizing core income to maintain its net interest margins. Advances are expected to grow between 11-12% this year, while deposit growth is projected at 9-10%. Asset quality remains strong with a low slippage ratio.

Electric two-wheeler companies are feeling the pinch. Rising raw material prices and supply chain issues are impacting profits. Companies like Bajaj Auto, Hero MotoCorp, and Ather Energy are warning of price increases. Demand for AI infrastructure is also affecting the supply of crucial components. Consumers may see higher prices for electric vehicles soon.

In a significant move, the CBI is now investigating the leak of the NEET-UG 2026 examination paper. This comes after the education ministry lodged a formal complaint, leading to an FIR. The agency is delving into potential criminal conspiracies and methods of cheating, deploying special investigative teams to ensure a comprehensive inquiry.

Chinese proverb of the day highlights the timeless message behind One joy scatters a hundred griefs. The proverb explains how a single happy moment can reduce sorrow, change perspective and support emotional balance. It explores happiness, resilience, gratitude, kindness, mental strength and positive thinking. The story explains meaning, relevance, teachings and daily application while sharing other inspiring Chinese proverbs people should know today.

The central government has fully operationalised four new labour codes, consolidating 29 laws into a simplified framework designed to be both pro-worker and business-friendly. These codes aim to foster effective coordination between labour and industry. The ministry also plans a comprehensive employment policy to guide future job generation.

Retail inflation reached a four-month peak of 3.5% in April. This rise was fueled by increasing food and gold/silver prices. Economists anticipate further inflationary pressures ahead. The Reserve Bank of India is expected to maintain its current policy rate. Inflation is nearing the RBI's target, suggesting a pause in rate hikes for now.

The National Testing Authority has taken decisive action by canceling the NEET-UG 2026 examination that took place on May 3, following serious allegations of paper leaks. This swift decision affects around 23 lakh students and is aimed at safeguarding the credibility of the testing system.

R Mukundan, CEO of Tata Chemicals, has assumed the presidency of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for 2026-27, succeeding Rajiv Memani. Suchitra K Ella of Bharat Biotech International is now the president-designate, and Shashwat Goenka of RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group takes on the role of vice-president for the same term.

Niti Aayog member Rajiv Gauba emphasized the government's commitment to trust-based governance reforms, focusing on granular changes at state and municipal levels. He urged industry to boost R&D investment, develop indigenous technology, and move beyond protectionism to capitalize on global supply chain shifts and establish India as a manufacturing and innovation hub.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning's poignant words emphasize that true living transcends mere survival, urging a passionate embrace of emotions like joy and love. Her quote, Not to eat and drink and breathe,but to feel the life in you down all the fibres of being, passionately and joyfully, remains profoundly relevant today.

Large companies must pay micro and small enterprises on time. This eases their working capital and reduces funding costs. Managing the current account, financing it, and preventing currency depreciation are key macroeconomic goals for FY27. The West Asia crisis presents a balance of payments stress test.

African proverb of the day: True leadership begins with obedience. This African proverb teaches that learning to follow instructions builds discipline, respect, and understanding. Before commanding others, one must first learn to obey. This path fosters humility and empathy, essential qualities for effective guidance. Modern life, from schools to families, reinforces this timeless wisdom.

The West Asia crisis serves as a crucial reminder for Indian industries to boost self-reliance and efficiency. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal urged businesses to reduce import dependency and focus on indigenous design and manufacturing. He also highlighted the need for faster electric vehicle adoption to cut oil bills.

US President Donald Trump will discuss arms sales to Taiwan and the case of jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump expressed confidence that tensions over Taiwan would not escalate during his presidency. China reiterated its consistent stance against US arms sales to Taiwan.

In a significant political move, R Seenivasa Sethupathi, a representative from the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, has made his way to the Supreme Court. This action follows a controversial Madras High Court decision that restricts his voting privileges in the assembly, thus jeopardizing the ruling alliance's grip on majority power.

Did you stand in front of your cupboard today trying to pick an outfit, but feel like you have nothing to wear? Girl, you are not alone! Whether it is a teenager, a young woman, or someone with some grey hair but a lot of experience, the crisis is huge and the same for everyone; the closet is full, but it still feels empty.

Japan's Mitsui OSK Lines plans to build ships in India. The company is also exploring opportunities for roll-on, roll-off terminals. MOL aims to strengthen inland logistics services. This expansion will support its leadership in shipping automobiles from India. The company sees India as a priority region for growth.

Carl Jungs quote of the day about identity highlights the importance of understanding oneself before society begins defining who a person should be. It explains how Jung believed people often lose their individuality by following outside expectations related to success, behaviour and social approval. It also connects his ideas to todays social media-driven world, where public opinion can strongly shape personal identity.

Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of When a man is crazy about a woman only she can cure him. The saying reflects how deep love and emotional attachment can completely consume a persons thoughts, emotions, and behavior. It suggests that when someone becomes intensely devoted or emotionally overwhelmed in love, the comfort, reassurance, and affection of the person they love becomes the only thing capable of bringing them peace.

Is Spotify Down Today? Over 15,000 users have flooded Downdetector with reports of Spotify not working. The platform confirmed the outage on X but offered no timeline for a fix.

Himanta Biswa Sarma has solidified his legacy as the first non-Congress Chief Minister to secure a second consecutive term. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya officially swore him in, alongside four newly appointed ministers, in a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a significant moment in the state's political landscape.

India has teamed up with the International Fund for Agricultural Development to introduce a transformative eight-year program, slated for 2026 to 2033. This initiative is designed to amplify rural income and bolster the resilience of communities facing environmental uncertainties. By emphasizing social and economic improvements alongside advanced knowledge systems, this program echoes Indias commitment to its Viksit Bharat@2047 aspiration.

Indian cinema is returning to a theatrical-first release model. Streaming platforms are reducing spending, and studios are focusing on box office success. Films now arrive on OTT services about eight weeks after their cinema debut. This shift marks a departure from direct-to-digital premieres. Box office collections are rising, while digital licensing demand has weakened.

The Competition Commission of India has approved four business deals, including Adani Power's acquisition of GVK Energy and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board's stake in Ctrl S Datacenters. The regulator also cleared Thriveni Earthmovers' purchase of a stake in Llyods Engineering Works and the merger of three entities into the company.

Great news for aspiring interns: the Ministry of Corporate Affairs has opened the doors for companies to recruit directly from academic institutions through the PM Internship Scheme! With the government subsidizing ninety percent of intern stipends, its a win-win situation. Recruiters can engage with potential candidates right on campus, making the hiring process streamlined and efficient.

Pune's Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Vivek Wadekar, announced the new Income Tax Act, 2025, aims to simplify compliance and foster transparency. Launched on April 1, 2026, the act features digital initiatives like the 'Kar Saathi' chatbot and 'Kar Setu' for taxpayer assistance.