The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Hezbollah link Michigan synagogue attack: A Hezbollah-inspired terrorist attack targeted a Michigan synagogue, with the suspect driving a truck into the building and exchanging gunfire before taking his own life. The FBI stated the incident was planned and not random, with the suspect having connections to Hezbollah and acting under their direction.
Kid Rock helicopter video: The US Army is reviewing footage shared by Kid Rock showing an Apache attack helicopter flying unusually low near his Nashville home. The review will determine if flight regulations and airspace requirements were followed. The incident also sparked a political exchange between Kid Rock and California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Many people saving for retirement make a simple mistake by leaving money in cash instead of investing. This can slow growth and reduce future savings. Job changes and confusing rollover options add to the problem. Experts say checking accounts, combining funds, and using simple investment options can help avoid losses and improve long-term retirement planning.
Tensions are high in Manipur's Ukhrul and Kamjong districts following the alleged killing of four NSCN-IM cadres by a rival faction. In retaliation, an NSCN-IM office was torched. Naga organizations are demanding a transparent inquiry, while the Chief Minister urges peace and assures government action.
A mandatory open offer to public shareholders is currently underway in line with Indian takeover regulations and is expected to conclude within four to six months. Should the Magnum Ice Cream Company's stake rise above 75% following the offer, it will be required to cut holdings to comply with minimum public shareholding norms within a year.
India's renewable energy use has significantly increased. Renewable sources now provide over 20% of the nation's electricity. This growth reflects a national priority to tap into clean energy. Investment in renewable infrastructure is a key focus. Energy demand is also rising across the country. This progress highlights India's commitment to a sustainable energy future.
Reverse migration, driven by geopolitical tensions, is boosting India's tractor industry. Returning migrant workers are investing in tractors and equipment, fueled by easy NBFC financing and record farm incomes. This trend, observed during Covid, is expected to drive significant growth in tractor sales, with industry leaders anticipating a 22-24% increase.
India is taking proactive steps to secure urea supplies. A task group is assessing global availability and planning imports. Indian missions abroad are identifying new sources across several countries. The nation is also diversifying its fertilizer options with alternatives like Ammonium Sulphate and others.
India's insolvency law has significantly boosted the banking sector. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code has helped rescue struggling companies and recover bad loans. A new amendment bill passed in the Lok Sabha introduces fresh resolution frameworks. This aims to speed up the rescue of stressed firms and improve loan recovery processes across the country.
The research firm said rising memory costs have led Android handset brands to raise prices on existing models, while new products are also being introduced at higher prices. Until the first week of March, more than eight brands had already increased prices of their existing handsets, with an average hike of Rs 1,500 which is expected to rise further, the research firm said.
Hotel bookings for April show a notable decline. The ongoing conflict in West Asia is impacting international travel. Many foreign guests are cancelling reservations. This situation affects luxury hotels in major cities and tourist destinations. Industry leaders are hopeful for a recovery in the coming months. Domestic travel and corporate bookings are currently stable.
Novo Nordisk is set to lower the price of its popular weight loss and diabetes drug, Ozempic. This move comes after several Indian drugmakers launched cheaper generic versions of semaglutide. Industry sources suggest Novo's revised price will be competitive. This strategy aims to capture a larger market share against aggressive pricing from Indian companies.
New Delhi is set to maintain current import duties on pulses. The government will also extend the duty-free period for tur and urad. This move aims to prevent price increases. Officials anticipate an El Nino affecting monsoon rainfall. Production of tur and urad is expected to decline. This could lead to higher prices and food inflation.
Airlines and oil marketing companies are in talks to revise the aviation turbine fuel pricing model, proposing a cap on the crack spread to cushion the sector from surging costs. This move aims to protect airlines from abnormal price spikes and prevent a significant hike in jet fuel prices ahead of upcoming assembly elections.
People aware of the details told ET, the Department of Telecommunications has received over Rs 13,000 crore - around Rs 9,200 crore from Bharti Airtel and about Rs 4,100 crore from Tata Teleservices. March 31 was the last day to make the payments but it being a government holiday, the companies paid the amount Monday.
To safeguard agricultural stability, the government is intensifying efforts to eliminate fertiliser diversion and illicit marketing. Companies reporting abnormally high sales during downturns will be met with strict penalties. This action stems from growing concerns about supply shortages linked to ongoing global strife.
Crypto mortgage explained: Buying a home with crypto gains is becoming more feasible as regulators explore counting digital assets for mortgages. However, volatility remains a major hurdle, often necessitating conversion to cash. While stablecoins and crypto-backed loans offer alternatives, they have limitations. Tax implications also need careful consideration for crypto investors eyeing property.
The remarks from Mustafa Suleyman highlight a major shift in the AI landscape. As demand for real-time AI services grows, inference compute is becoming the key constraint. Companies like Microsoft are investing billions to stay ahead, creating a gap where only financially strong players can scale effectively.
Central security forces in Chhattisgarh will be gradually reduced over the next 18 months. The state has freed 96 percent of its areas from Maoist influence. Top Maoist leaders are no longer active in the region. The government will assist surrendered Maoists in reintegrating into their villages.
In absolute terms, the fiscal deficit between April 2025 and February 2026 stood at 12.53 lakh crore against 13.47 lakh crore a year ago. The government has pegged the 2025-26 fiscal deficit at 15.58 lakh crore.
JPMorgan Chase is pushing software engineers to use AI tools in daily work. The bank is linking AI usage to performance reviews and productivity goals. Managers expect developers to show better output with AI. Employees may be graded based on results and work style. Engineers who dont adopt AI risk lower ratings as companies increase focus on AI skills.
South Korea has already imposed driving restrictions on civil servants, curbing how often they can access government buildings by car based on the last number of their licence plates. Expanding restrictions to the private sector would be the first such move since the 1991 Gulf War. It would also signal heightened concern over a looming energy shock for an economy that is a key player in global tech supply chains.
US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran. He desires a deal before April 6. If Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, US forces may target its energy infrastructure. This includes power plants and oil wells. Iran has rejected US peace proposals.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared in Lok Sabha that India is now Naxal-free, with the movement's central structure dismantled and its Bastar stronghold largely cleared. He highlighted the significant reduction in Naxal violence, attributing the success to the government's firm resolve and the efforts of security forces and tribal communities.
Jammu and Kashmir Police and Punjab Police have busted a Pakistan-controlled terror module. Two Pakistani nationals, Abu Huraira and Usman, were detained in Malerkotla, Punjab. They allegedly belonged to the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba. The duo had been living in India for months, posing as Indian nationals. Investigations are ongoing into their alleged reconnaissance of targets and recruitment activities.
Tehran remained defiant in the month-old war, which began with U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28 and has spread across the region, killing thousands, disrupting energy supplies and hitting the global economy. The majority of those reported killed were in Iran and Lebanon, and many were civilians.
India's Census 2027 begins April 1, rolling out in 11 states. This census will be fully digital for the first time. Phase one focuses on house listing and housing details. Phase two, scheduled for February 2027, will include population enumeration and the recording of caste information. Self-enumeration options are available to respondents.
Coins are often overlooked in daily life, yet some hold remarkable stories and surprising value. A notable example is a Lincoln Wheat Penny that sold for an estimated $840,000 in 2021 through Heritage Auctions. With fewer than 20 believed to exist, these coins are extremely rare. Simple checks like color, magnetism, date details, and weight can help identify them, but professional verification is essential for confirmation.
A workplace story shared by career coach Simon Ingari highlights a company's failure to accommodate an employee's upcoming wedding. Despite two months' notice, management is demanding she work through the weekend before her engagement, dismissing the event as not an emergency. This lack of empathy and poor planning underscores a broader issue of corporate disconnect from human realities.
Jasmine Sandlas' journey from self-made CDs to chart-topping film songs highlights her unwavering commitment to authenticity. Her recent work on Dhurandhar and its sequel showcases raw, honest performances, even under immense pressure. Sandlas prioritizes artistic integrity over constant visibility, a choice that defines her unconventional path from Jalandhar to global recognition.
Angel Number Day on March 31, 2026, is being linked to themes of luck, self-expression, and fresh beginnings, with five zodiac signs expected to experience positive developments.
Realty major DLF has completed the sale of its IT-ITeS SEZ project and vacant land in Kolkata. The deal, valued at Rs 710 crore, was made with Srijan Group. This move is part of DLF's strategy to monetize its commercial assets. The transactions involved the transfer of DLF TechPark II and nearly 18 acres of land.
American soldiers are arriving in the Middle East. Thousands of troops from the 82nd Airborne Division are now in the region. This builds capacity for potential operations. President Donald Trump is considering various options. These include seizing Kharg Island or securing passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. has been conducting strikes since February 28.
State-owned ONGC has begun gas production from its Daman Upside Development Project in the Arabian Sea, a significant milestone achieved on March 29. The project, located off the coast of Gujarat, aims to produce 21.5 billion cubic meters of gas and is expected to reach peak production of around 5 million standard cubic meters per day.
A Russian photographer's photoshoot featuring a model on a pink-painted elephant in Jaipur has ignited widespread criticism across India. Concerns over animal welfare were amplified when it was confirmed the controversial concept was real, not digitally altered. The photographer defended the use of organic, festival-like powders, claiming permissions were obtained and the elephant was cared for.
Global energy chokepoints highlight India's need for mineral security. A new strategy focuses on deep partnerships in Africa. This involves technology transfer and capacity building. India can become a partner in governance and green industrialization. This approach secures critical minerals for India's clean economy. Engagement in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania offers a roadmap.
The Reserve Bank of India should use its substantial foreign exchange reserves to stabilize the Indian Rupee. A report from SBI suggests this action is necessary as the ongoing West Asia crisis impacts global markets. The report highlights that India possesses ample reserves to manage speculative moves.
The International Monetary Fund warned that the Middle East war, initiated by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, is causing significant global economic disruption. The conflict has led to tighter financial conditions and a historic shock to the oil market, with frontline countries and low-income nations facing particular risks of food insecurity and slower growth.
New SNAP rules are starting in some U.S. states this April. The changes limit buying sugary drinks, candy, and desserts with benefits. Texas begins first, while other states follow later. Millions of families may notice blocked items at checkout. Officials say it supports healthier food choices, but critics worry it may make shopping harder. More updates are expected as additional states implement rules.
Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat this week as the Pink Moon, the rare alignment of Moon and Spica, and the possible appearance of a comet tail combine to create one of Aprils most striking astronomical displays.
The Enforcement Directorate has returned assets valued at over Rs 15,000 crore to a special committee. This action aims to help investors recover funds lost in the PACL Ponzi scam. The fraud is estimated to be worth Rs 48,000 crore. This move is a significant step towards refunding victims. The ED is committed to recovering all proceeds of crime.
Americans in North Dakota have hours left to claim the $1,600 property tax credit before the April 1 deadline. This primary residence tax benefit can lower annual property bills and ease the rising cost of living. Homeowners in single-family homes, condos, duplexes, townhouses, and mobile homes are eligible if they live in the property most of the year. Trust-owned properties also qualify. Seniors and individuals with permanent disabilities may access extra credits. Applications must be submitte
The Enforcement Directorate has attached properties valued at over Rs 270 crore. This action is part of a money laundering investigation targeting Rajendra Lodha, former director of Lodha Developers. Lodha is accused of diverting and siphoning company funds through unauthorized property sales and inflated land purchase deals. He was arrested in February and is currently in judicial custody.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi voiced his anticipation for Kerala to elect a woman chief minister. He highlighted Congress's commitment to women's empowerment and participation in the state's development. Guarantees include free KSRTC bus travel for women and financial aid for college students. Gandhi also participated in a bicycle ride with MLA Chandy Oommen during his campaign.
The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal has overturned a lower court's decision to start insolvency proceedings against real estate firm Vatika Ltd. The tribunal found that principal repayment was not yet due and some claims were overstated. It clarified that insolvency proceedings should only cover the specific project 'Aspirations'. This ruling allows Vatika to focus on its operations.
Lenders will now report to credit bureaus weekly, a shift from fortnightly, enhancing real-time borrower risk assessment. This move is expected to improve underwriting standards by enabling continuous monitoring and reassessment of borrower risk throughout the loan lifecycle. Digitised lending products will be crucial for this transition, allowing for almost real-time borrower behavior monitoring and faster response to emerging stress.
Chris Hemsworth stars in the crime thriller Crime 101, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. The film, based on Don Winslow's novella and directed by Bart Layton, follows a meticulous jewel thief whose life unravels after a daring heist. A determined detective investigates a series of robberies, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse chase.

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