The Economic Times

Cathie Wood Oil Price Forecast: Oil markets jumped nearly 50% during the Strait of Hormuz crisis, with WTI crude touching almost $120 before easing. Yet Cathie Wood warns the long-term outlook could flip. She says electric vehicles, autonomous mobility, and falling oil demand may push crude prices toward $50 per barrel in the next decade. Short-term war shocks lift prices. But technology could reshape global energy markets and trigger a deeper oil price decline.

IRS tax update 2026:Millions of Americans filing taxes will find the IRS's updated online withholding estimator crucial. Reflecting recent tax law changes, including new deductions and credits for workers and seniors, the tool helps adjust paycheck deductions. This aims to prevent unexpected tax bills and ensure taxpayers keep more of their earnings throughout the year.

The United States and India are close to finalizing a critical minerals agreement. A significant announcement is anticipated in the coming months. This pact aims to secure supply chains for advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies. The US envoy highlighted recent breakthroughs in trade, technology, and strategic coordination, underscoring a growing partnership.

A hardware business owner challenges the popular 'hustle culture'. Despite earning more than their previous job, they miss the structured environment and professional interactions. The entrepreneur finds dealing with uneducated suppliers and unpredictable behavior mentally exhausting. They suggest that for some, a traditional job offers a better quality of life than entrepreneurship.

Loquacious describes someone who talks a lot, sometimes so much that they dominate conversations. Unlike casual words like chatty or talkative, it often hints at eloquence or even overwhelming speech. Loquacious people can keep discussions flowing, but they may unintentionally overshadow others. Whether in social, professional, or literary contexts, loquacious is a versatile word worth adding to your arsenal.

Iran is coordinating special flights for around 180 Indian sailors, mainly departing from Kochi. Tragically, this mission also includes returning the remains of those lost when a US submarine sank their vessel near Sri Lanka. This comes in light of the unfortunate incident with the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena.

Bank credit saw a strong 14.5% year-on-year growth by February 28. Deposits also expanded, reaching 11.9% growth. This marks an acceleration from the previous fortnight. Scheduled commercial banks hold Rs 251.90 lakh crore in deposits, with fixed deposits forming 87% of this amount. Total bank credit stands at Rs 207.54 lakh crore. The credit-deposit ratio slightly eased to 82.39%.

Iran has granted permission for two Indian LPG tankers to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. This development occurs as ongoing conflict in West Asia impacts shipping routes. Despite security concerns, Iran's Supreme Leader's representative stated the strait remains open. He confirmed that some vessels are still transiting the vital waterway.

Shriram Life Insurance is gearing up for a significant leap, projecting a robust 20% growth by the fiscal year 2025-26. To enhance its footprint in the market, the company is forging new alliances with banks, broadening its distribution avenues. This pivotal strategy marks a shift from their prior emphasis on direct distribution methods.

The Indian oil tanker Jag Prakash has boldly navigated through the tumultuous Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant achievement amidst increasing regional conflicts that had left 28 Indian vessels stranded. Carrying a vital cargo of gasoline from Oman destined for Tanzania, the Jag Prakash serves as a beacon of resilience.

Madan Thangavelu, a senior director at Uber, achieved a remarkable promotion from senior software engineer to senior director in just six years. He attributes his rapid ascent to proactively taking on responsibilities beyond his role, building strong relationships with managers, and understanding the critical importance of timing when presenting innovative ideas to the organization.

Temptation Island Season 10 will once again centre on four couples who travel to a tropical destination to test the strength of their relationships. As part of the experiment, the partners are separated and placed in villas with a group of singles whose presence is meant to challenge their commitment, pushing participants to confront insecurities and questions about their relationships.

Quote of the day by Lin Yutang: Lin Yutang's quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal limitations for self-awareness and growth. Understanding what one cannot do guides choices, conserves energy, and fosters realistic goals, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment and success. This perspective encourages humility and better collaboration by acknowledging boundaries.

In January, American job openings surged to nearly 7 million, yet the actual pace of hiring has noticeably dwindled. This paradox points toward a hiring recession in the United States. Although layoffs remain low, job seekers are encountering hurdles. Factors such as elevated interest rates, uncertain policies, and the impact of artificial intelligence are shaping the labor market landscape.

Life stinks, but that doesn't mean you don't enjoy it the quote by Dustin Hoffman reflects a realistic yet optimistic view of life. Hoffman, an acclaimed actor popular for movies like The Graduate, Kramer vs. Kramer, and Rain Man, suggests that life includes both struggles and joyful moments. His words remind us that challenges, disappointments, and setbacks are unavoidable parts of the human experience. However, they should not prevent people from appreciating happiness, relationships, and pers

President Donald Trump said Friday he feels honored to be killing Iran's leadership, calling them deranged scumbags. We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time -- Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today, Trump posted on Truth Social.

HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) announced a Rs 2,600 crore investment in Punjab's speciality and fine chemicals sector. Additionally, HMEL plans to launch 500 new retail fuel outlets nationwide, equipped with modern technology. This expansion follows HMEL's significant Rs 60,000 crore investment in its Bathinda refinery, Punjab's sole oil refinery.

A CAG report reveals the Namami Gange program failed in Uttarakhand. Implementing agencies showed major flaws. Sewage treatment plants had defective designs and poor maintenance. Drains discharging into the Ganga were not tapped. Waste was dumped near rivers. Funds were underutilized. Local communities were not involved. This led to infrastructure not being used.

Two weeks into Operation Epic Fury, the US faces a financially punishing war against Iran. Billions are being spent on advanced munitions, depleting stockpiles and prompting a request for tens of billions more. The high cost of precision weapons and the imbalance with cheaper Iranian drones present a significant economic challenge.

India's urea imports from China reached a three-year peak. Fertilizer imports from China and Russia saw a significant increase this fiscal year. Urea imports from China dramatically outpaced previous years. Russia also supplied substantial quantities of urea, DAP, MoP, and NPK fertilizers. Overall urea imports from these two nations are considerable. Domestic urea availability currently exceeds requirements.

The growth will ride on increased exports to the US following the interim trade deal that eliminated the 25 per cent reciprocal tariff on Indian gems and diamonds, effectively bringing down the US tariff to zero, though the escalating Middle East conflict could prevent diamond polishers from fully benefiting from it, Crisil Ratings said.

Why US stock market surging today: The Dow Jones stands at 46,809.47, up 131 points. The S&P 500 reaches 6,681.73. The Nasdaq climbs to 22,324.48. The Russell 2000 jumps 1.16%, leading the rally. Nearly 70% of US stocks are advancing. Fresh PCE inflation data rose 0.3%, while core PCE increased 0.4%. Investors now expect a Federal Reserve rate cut in 2025. Strong buying appears in Nvidia, Intel, Micron and Nokia. Meanwhile WTI crude trades near $94 and gold holds around $5,094. Markets also watc

As per the structured payment mechanism of Tri-Partite Agreement (TPA) signed among MTNL, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Beacon Trusteeship Limited, the telecom company has to fund the semi-annual interest into the escrow account maintained in Bank of India with an adequate amount 10 days before the due date, which in this case is March 24, 2026.

Manappuram Finance has been hit with a fine of Rs 2.70 lakh by the Reserve Bank of India due to lapses in regulatory adherence. The penalty stems from the companys oversight in postponing variable compensation for essential staff. While this fine aims to rectify compliance issues, it will not impact customer interactions.

IndiGo airfare hike: With fuel prices remaining uncertain amid the geopolitical tensions, aviation analysts expect ticket prices to remain volatile in the coming weeks, with airlines continuing to recalibrate surcharges and fares depending on the trajectory of oil markets and regional security developments.

A Reddit user shared a concerning experience where their company laid off dedicated, hardworking employees first, despite their extra efforts and loyalty. The user, who maintained a strict work-life balance, admitted they might be next but would leave with dignity, advising others to prioritize well-being over company devotion. Online commenters agreed, suggesting networking over overtime for career advancement.

An Indian employee's request for medical leave was met with an offer of unpaid time off. The company founder reportedly dismissed the employee's illness. This incident, shared online, drew criticism for insensitive leadership. Another worker recounted a similar experience of delayed salary after taking sick leave. Both employees eventually sought more respectful workplaces.

Investigators say preliminary evidence indicates that Nancy Guthrie may have been intentionally targeted, though authorities have not yet reached a definitive conclusion.

Quote of the Day by Michael Sandel: More than 20 million people watched the famous Justice lectures by Michael Sandel at Harvard University. His quote remains powerful. Justice is not only about distributing wealth. It is about valuing things correctly. Sandel asks a key question. Should markets decide everything? Or should society protect dignity and fairness? His philosophy challenges profit-driven systems and highlights ethics, equality, and the common good in modern democracy.

The recent government allocation of commercial LPG has been met with enthusiasm from hotels and restaurants. As industry representatives call for rapid distribution, they're highlighting the pressing gas shortages that have led countless establishments to limit their services.

A viral video of Richard Pulley, a 78-year-old working as a delivery driver in Manchester, sparked widespread support online. The clip featured him carefully delivering a Starbucks order, initiating viewers to learn more about his situation. After discovering that Pulley and his wife had returned to work because of financial pressures and medical expenses, thousands of people donated money to help them. A fundraiser launched on GoFundMe rapidly gained momentum, collecting around $500,000.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated there is no clear evidence Iran has placed mines in the Strait of Hormuz, contradicting earlier news reports. This assessment comes as global oil prices remain high amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel war.

New family tax bill 2026: Connecticut families may soon get a tax break. Lawmakers are considering a new bill for a child tax credit. Eligible households could receive up to $600 per child. This aims to ease the burden of rising living costs. The proposal could help families with essential expenses. Connecticut would join other states with similar credits if the bill becomes law.

The National Testing Agency has reopened the application window for JEE Main 2026 Session 2. Candidates can now apply until March 13, 2026. Fee payment is also due by March 13, 2026. The JEE Main 2026 Session 2 exams will be held from April 2 to April 9, 2026.

Earlier, for every proposal that involved more than 40 hectares of forest land, the conservator of forests of the forest circle in question had to carry out a field inspection -- in addition to the verification by the divisional forest officer (DFO) concerned.

The US economy grew at a significantly slower pace than initially estimated for the final months of 2025, government data showed Friday, a major downgrade that comes as fallout from war in the Middle East looms. Trump was quick to blame a lengthy government shutdown late last year for the slowdown in growth when early estimates were released last month.

The electric vehicle market experienced a notable 11% reduction in sales globally this past February. China, in particular, faced its most significant downturn since early 2020, influenced by changing laws and the end of certain tax breaks. North America followed suit with its own substantial drop, while Europe managed to see a rise in sales.

Director James Cameron clarifies his approach, stating he's a 'rightist,' not a perfectionist. He emphasizes refining work until it fulfills its purpose, rather than endlessly chasing unattainable flaws. This practical philosophy promotes efficiency and confidence, encouraging creators to move forward after achieving a meaningful standard.

Tata Motors has secured significant supply orders for over 5,000 buses and chassis from various state transport undertakings nationwide. These diverse orders, including Magna and Starbus models, will be deployed across multiple states for intercity and intracity operations. This achievement underscores Tata Motors' leading role in shaping India's public transportation future.

Karnataka has identified a potential airport site near Ballari, approximately 19 km away. The state government will proceed with further steps after consulting local representatives. This proposed airport aims to benefit Ballari, Vijayanagara, and Koppal districts, learning from past airport planning challenges.

A 43-year-old Indian business consultant's dream of a career reset in the US turned into a nightmare. Despite academic success, he faced immense job search challenges, accumulating $40,000 in debt and burnout. Returning home, he struggles with financial dependence and shattered confidence.