The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Apple Inc. has accused the Competition Commission of India of exceeding its powers by seeking its financial data in an antitrust case related to the iPhone app market, as the company challenges Indias penalty framework in court.
This Chinese proverb of the day, attributed to Zhuang Zhou uses the image of a straight and a twisted tree to explain a deeper truth about life. It suggests that those who appear useful, perfect, and capable are often the ones who get used the most, sometimes at the cost of their own freedom. In contrast, those who seem imperfect or unconventional may avoid such pressures and live more freely.
The May full moon is called the Flower Moon because it coincides with the season when flowers are in full bloom. Before the adoption of the Gregorian calendar or the Julian calendar, many Native American cultures relied on the moon as a natural timekeeper. They used specific moon names to mark seasonal changes and guide activities such as planting and harvesting.
Quote of the day by Haile Selassie I explains real leadership in simple words. It shows leaders should guide people, not control them. The story covers his life, rise to power, reforms, war struggle, and global role. It also highlights lessons on leadership, power, and responsibility that are still useful for young people today.
US stock market surging big today. Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq rally as Dow jumps record 500 points. A powerful mix of blowout earnings, resilient economic data, and cooling oil prices is pushing the US stock market to a historic April close even as Wall Street keeps one eye on Iran and Apple's after-bell report.
America's Operation Epic Fury is now Operation Economic Fury. The US is targeting Iran's cryptocurrency networks. This aims to stop Iran from moving money globally. Hundreds of millions of dollars in crypto linked to Iran have been frozen. This new digital battleground is a key part of US sanctions policy.
The Mines Ministry has approved 58 companies under a 1,500 crore incentive scheme to promote recycling of critical minerals as part of the National Critical Mineral Mission. The scheme aims to build domestic recycling capacity for materials from lithium-ion batteries, e-waste and industrial scrap to reduce import dependence and support clean energy and manufacturing.
The African proverb A woman holds the knife at the sharp end reflects deep traditional wisdom from parts of Africa about responsibility, emotional strength, and unseen sacrifice. It highlights how some individuals carry heavier emotional and practical burdens in life, often without recognition. The African proverb of the day symbolizes endurance in difficult situations and the quiet strength required to maintain balance within families and society.
Amidst a surge in naval advancements, Pakistan has officially launched its maiden Hangor-class submarine in Sanya, China, with President Asif Ali Zardari honoring the event. This state-of-the-art submarine, outfitted with the latest in armament and sensing technology, is set to significantly improve Pakistan's defensive posture in waters.
Meta stock crash after earnings: Meta Platforms shares plummeted over 10%, erasing $170 billion in value despite better-than-expected Q1 earnings. Investors reacted negatively to the company's significantly increased AI spending forecast for 2026, raising concerns about future profitability. While user growth and advertising showed strength, future investment plans overshadowed past performance.
UAE Quits OPEC: How the World's Energy Map Just Shifted Permanently. The UAE's departure from the Saudi Arabia-led cartel is being called the most consequential rupture in OPEC's history. And for major oil importers, this UAE exit from OPEC carries profound economic implications.
Mesa School of Business, a startup-focused, AI-first institution backed by Elevation Capital, has released independently audited placement outcomes showing an average CTC of 26 lakh for its first two cohorts,with 60% of graduates in founder-facing roles and a 2.8x average salary jump.
Cameron Diazs quote of the day is not about giving up control, its about redefining it. It encourages effort without attachment, ambition without anxiety and trust without fear.
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that new free trade agreements will boost exports and create lakhs of jobs. A recent pact with New Zealand includes a USD 20 billion investment. These agreements open new markets for Indian industries.
Latin Proverb of the day: The Latin proverb Aegroto dum anima est, spes est emphasizes that as long as life persists, so does the possibility for change and recovery. This timeless saying underscores that hope is not blind optimism but is rooted in the simple fact of being alive, offering resilience in personal, professional, and health-related struggles.
Bengaluru faces heavy rains and flooding. Seven people died in a single incident, prompting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to review preparedness. The Lokayukta has initiated a case and warned officials. Actions include suspending an engineer and issuing notices. Efforts are underway to clear debris, fill potholes, and desilt drains to prevent further tragedies across the state.
Indian Hotels Company Limited has expanded its premium homestay brand am Stays & Trails with the signing of a cluster of bungalows in Port Blair, marking its entry into the island destination. The project will include 10 bungalows near Manjery beach with amenities such as a restaurant, gym, spa and pool.
Actor Sonali Kulkarni was caught in a massive traffic gridlock on the Mumbai-Pune route after a construction accident involving a piling rig collapse in Mankhurd. The incident, which killed a police constable, caused severe congestion across Mumbai's eastern suburbs, leaving commuters stranded for hours with limited updates.
At 36, Tamannaah Bhatia says her glowing skin comes from simple habits she picked up early in her career. In a video, she shared that her mother introduced her to natural skincare remedies to balance the effects of heavy makeup and styling. She continues to rely on two easy DIY face masks made with ingredients like sandalwood, coffee, honey, besan, yoghurt and rosewater, adjusting them based on her skins needs.
Digestive discomforts like bloating and acidity can impact overall well-being. Celebrity nutritionist Luke Coutinho shares a simple homemade tea recipe to aid gut health. This drink, featuring coriander, cumin, fennel, and ajwain, supports digestion naturally. It can be prepared by overnight infusion or boiling. Optional additions like lemon juice can enhance its benefits.
Four people drowned on Thursday after a cruise boat carrying 3540 passengers overturned in the Bargi river in Jabalpur district following a sudden storm.
U.S. Commerce Department has said its Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE) rose in line with expectations in March.
After a recent attack in Golders Green, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the area but faced angry protests and loud boos. Many people are worried about safety and rising hate crimes against Jewish communities. The government has promised more security and action, but some people feel it is not enough and want stronger steps soon.
China Detains Panama-Flagged Ships: Nearly 70 Panamanian vessels held in Chinese ports. COSCO suspending operations at Balboa. A $2 billion arbitration lawsuit. How a Hong Kong port concession turned into a full-scale geopolitical confrontation and why your supply chain may already be feeling it. When China detains Panama-flagged ships at record rates, it isn't only squeezing a small Central American nation. It is disrupting a global logistics ecosystem that the United States depends on more th
Quote of the day by Denzel Washington highlights a powerful lesson about responsibility and mindset in life. You have to take what you're given and do something with it. The easiest thing to do is complain reminds us that circumstances are not always in our control, but our response always is. It encourages people to move beyond excuses and focus on action, growth, and resilience.
US jobless claims dropped significantly last week, falling below 200,000. This occurred despite ongoing economic challenges, including the war in Iran and elevated oil prices. Consumer prices have also seen a substantial monthly increase. The Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark interest rate due to economic uncertainty. Employers added jobs in March, though the labor market shows signs of strain.
Karnataka has released a draft excise policy proposing to cut alcohol consumption by 89% over six years, while shifting towards lower-strength beverages and improving compliance. The draft, unveiled by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, suggests strength-based taxation, digital tracking of supply chains, and simplified licensing, alongside measures to curb illicit trade and restrict outlets near sensitive zones.
President Donald Trump criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, urging him to prioritize ending the Russia-Ukraine war and addressing domestic issues like immigration and energy. Trump also accused Merz of interfering with efforts to counter Iran's nuclear threat, claiming this work makes the world safer.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has finalised the AGR dues of Vodafone Idea Limited at 64,046 crore as of December 31, 2025, lower than the earlier estimate of 87,695 crore, following directions from the Supreme Court of India.
Compulsory insurance is a legal rule that forces people or businesses to buy certain insurance. It mainly covers car, motorcycle, workers safety, and medical liability in some cases. Rules change by state, and not everyone follows them. It helps protect victims and workers from big financial loss when accidents or injuries happen, making risk safer and more controlled overall.
May Ekadashi Dates 2026: In May 2026, two significant Ekadashis will be observed: Apara Ekadashi on May 13 and Padmini Ekadashi on May 27. Both Ekadashis are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, with Apara Ekadashi offering liberation from sins and Padmini Ekadashi, observed during Adhik Maas, promising spiritual growth and prosperity.
Gut health issues like bloating and discomfort are common. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, suggests five dietary changes for better digestion. He advises choosing whole-grain sourdough over white bread, probiotic-rich yogurt alternatives, slightly green bananas, sparkling water with lemon instead of diet sodas, and grilled or baked proteins over processed deli meats for improved gut balance and overall wellness.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of orchestrating exit poll predictions. She claims these projections are designed to demoralize Trinamool Congress workers. Banerjee expressed strong confidence in her party's victory. She anticipates the TMC will secure more than 226 seats in the upcoming assembly elections. Banerjee also alleged central forces acted as BJP agents during polling.
Korean proverb of the day: Birds hear the words spoken in the day, and mice hear the words spoken at night highlights the enduring power and reach of words. It suggests that nothing we say is ever truly private, as someone is always listening, whether seen or unseen. The proverb shows lessons on mindful communication, discretion, and emotional awareness. This Korean saying serves as a reminder that words carry lasting impact and should be used carefully in both personal and professional life.
Indias used car market is projected to double to about $70 billion by 2031 from $35 billion currently, driven by rising affordability, shorter ownership cycles and increasing demand, according to a report by Redseer Strategy Consultants.
Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said India can reach a $30 trillion economy by 2047 if it achieves around 12% annual growth in dollar terms and strengthens its capabilities in technology and frontier research.
Hindustan Unilever will implement calibrated price increases to counter rising input costs, focusing on volume-led growth. The company remains confident in its ability to protect volumes in daily essential categories due to low price elasticity. HUL is also driving savings across its operations to navigate short-term challenges while maintaining long-term growth.
A fitness coach, Will Stone, has shared a list of 10 foods that can support weight loss by keeping hunger under control. His approach focuses on choosing high-satiety foods like eggs, chicken breast, oats, fruits, and yogurt that help people stay full for longer and avoid overeating. He explains that fat loss becomes easier when the body isnt constantly fighting hunger, and encourages building meals around these simple, everyday foods instead of relying on restrictive diets.
The U.S. economy grew at a modest 2% annual pace in the first quarter of 2026, recovering from a weak 0.5% expansion in the previous quarter after the government shutdown. Growth was supported by a sharp rise in government spending and an 8.7% increase in business investment, partly driven by artificial intelligence, while consumer spending slowed to 1.6%.
Young professionals in their 20s can build lasting wealth and freedom by adopting smart money habits. Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo shares five crucial lessons. He emphasizes that wealth building requires patience and discipline, not quick fixes. Salary should not define personal worth. Financial compatibility with a partner is vital. Money should create independence, not status.
India has attracted significant investment, facilitating over USD 6.1 billion in projects for FY 2025-26. These initiatives are set to generate more than 31,000 jobs across 14 states. European countries are major contributors, alongside the US, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. This reflects growing global confidence in India as a prime investment hub.
Indias gold imports in April are set to fall to around 15 metric tons, a near 30-year low, as banks halted shipments following a 3% IGST demand by customs, industry and government sources said. Banks, which handle most gold imports, stopped clearing consignments due to the tax issue and delays in formal authorisation for bullion imports.
Quote of the day by Muhammad Ali: Boxing legend Muhammad Ali believed age is a state of mind. His famous quote highlights how perception shapes our experience of aging. This idea encourages individuals to maintain energy and pursue goals regardless of years lived. Ali's life exemplified this philosophy, remaining influential beyond his boxing career.

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