The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Wall Street ended sharply lower on Friday, with CoreWeave, Broadcom and other AI-related technology stocks under renewed pressure, while a jump in oil prices spooked traders heading into the weekend.The Nasdaq extended losses from earlier in the week, hammered by concerns that debt-laden AI infrastructure companies may not turn profits in time to repay debts, particularly with borrowing costs expected to rise.Nvidia-backed CoreWeave slumped, also adding to recent losses. The data center operator
Reliance Industries expressed its openness to competition within India's satellite communications market. The company welcomed Starlinks entry while emphasizing the need for compliance with Indian regulations. Reliance stated that its satellite services are awaiting necessary government approvals for operations. Elon Musk claimed that oligarchs are blocking Starlink's entry into India, which Reliance addressed in its statement. Other satellite operators also continue to seek Indian government cl
The Foreign Exchange Dealers' Association of India (FEDAI) has directed banks not to convert foreign currency remittances into rupees without specific instructions from the sender or beneficiary. The move follows concerns that intermediary banks were converting dollars at unfavourable exchange rates, leaving small exporters and individuals receiving overseas payments with less money. Banks have also been asked to ensure transparent forex service charges and disclose currency conversion rates on
British actress Esther McGregor and German actor Emilio Sakraya have been cast to portray Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson. In the narrative, Violet's mother, a powerful military general, forces her to abandon her dream of becoming a scribe and join as a dragon rider at Basgiath War College.
HSBC has deployed more than half of its $1 billion loan commitment to Indian startups within a year of launching its innovation banking platform. The British lender has reported strong demand across consumer technology, e-commerce and enterprise software, and is open to increasing its funding allocation. HSBC Global Head of Innovation Banking David Sabow said the bank expects to add at least 500 clients in India over the next year.
NITI Aayog is exploring policy measures to improve the manufacturing capabilities of medical and dental devices in India. The meeting included domestic manufacturers, government officials, and experts from IIT Delhi and IIT Mumbai. Key challenges such as regulatory hurdles and cost disadvantages faced by Indian manufacturers were discussed extensively. The industry body AiMeD emphasized the need for simpler regulations and financial support for local manufacturers.
With these approvals, the cumulative investment approved under the scheme has reached 3,687 crore to date to help transform ITIs into modern, industry-aligned and future-ready skill institutions.
Niti Aayog vice-chairman Ashok Lahiri stressed the need for rapid economic reforms and structural changes to help India become a developed nation by 2047. Technological progress is needed to compete with the rest of the world, he said.
Indias 1,200-tonne gold refining industry could unlock new export opportunities through GIFT City, Gujarat, following the introduction of responsible sourcing and audit guidelines by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). The framework sets standards for refiners seeking Good Delivery accreditation to trade gold through the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX). The move aims to strengthen global confidence in Indian-refined gold through supply chain transparency,
India's power sector planner recently said the country will require additional base load through conventional sources such as thermal power plants to meet the strong demand, along with renewable energy sources. Power consumption in September rose around 11% driven by cooling and irrigation requirements amid below-normal monsoon rainfall.
Maharashtras Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of 25 food establishments and four edible oil and spice manufacturing units during a statewide crackdown on food safety violations. Six Dominos Pizza outlets in Pune division were among those affected. The FDA also seized around 81,330 kg of suspected substandard, adulterated or mislabelled food products worth Rs 1.73 crore from 37 establishments across six divisions. Laboratory tests and further legal action are pending.
India aims to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047, from its current size of around $4 trillion. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) grew 7.8% in the June quarter, exceeding expectations.
In responses to the regulator's consultation paper on insurance distribution reforms, some industry participants said automobile manufacturers and dealers influence commissions, discounting and repair costs, which could blunt the impact of the proposed curbs on intermediary remuneration, according to people aware of the matter.
Theodoros Kokkalas, chief operating officer of ERGO International said greater predictability would help insurers make long-term business plans. We make plans, and today making long-term plans is like science fiction in the dynamic environment that we live in, he said. While India's general insurance industry is struggling to bring its combined ratio below 100%, with the industry average at 110-115% and ERGO is targeting a ratio of 80-85%, Kokkalas said there was no standard timeline for a marke
The Supreme Court has mandated the central government to provide details on the implementation of menstrual hygiene rights. This ruling emphasises that menstrual hygiene is crucial for Article 21 of the Constitution. The court is apprehensive about the effective execution of this directive in remote areas. Chief secretaries from non-complying states may face contempt proceedings for failing to respond.
The US budget deficit for fiscal 2026 rose to $1.99 trillion, driven by increased tariff refunds and spending. Total spending for the year reached a record $7.40 trillion, while total receipts were $5.40 trillion. Net tariff receipts fell significantly, contributing to the deficit increase as refunds reached $145 billion. The debt-service outlays recorded a new high of $1.36 trillion during this fiscal year.
RJ Mitte's mother, Dyna, revealed the painful morning she discovered her son had died by suicide. She had tried to contact him before deciding to bring him lunch. Dyna expressed her regrets about encouraging RJ to seek therapy, which he resisted. His passing has prompted discussions on the importance of acknowledging emotional distress in the community.
The White House announced investments of over $330 billion from India as part of total investments. This total is reported as $10.871 trillion from various countries and private industries. Specific investments included $310 billion and $20.5 billion, plus a $15 billion steel plant by Essar Group. US President Donald Trump previously mentioned Reliance Industries' $300 billion investment in Texas.
Leonardo DiCaprio's vision for Blackadore Caye focuses on intertwining luxurious hospitality with environmental recovery. Facing scrutiny over ecological sustainability and the projects scale, the proposal aimed to integrate extensive conservation areas alongside habitat restoration efforts. However, construction delays have cast doubt on its viability, leaving the equilibrium between tourism growth and nature conservation at Blackadore Caye hanging in the balance.
One random, impulsive real estate purchase years ago made Bollywood star Jeetendra one of the wealthiest men in the tinsel town. In an interview, the Himmatwala star said how buying a home from Baiju Bawra star Bharat Bhushan for just over Rs 4 lakh decades ago changed his fortune forever.
At just 12 years old, Evan LaBelle discovered his passion for 3D printing, which ultimately led him to establish Autotiv Manufacturing. His company currently boasts an expansive production facility equipped with over 200 3D printers, catering to the aerospace and robotics sectors. Honored as Young Entrepreneur of the Year, LaBelle is celebrated for his innovative contributions and dedication to community.
Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) aims for 18-20 percent growth in total advances for the fiscal year 2027. The bank focuses on retail, agriculture, and MSME lending, which constitutes 86 percent of its advances. Though corporate lending will be increased, high-value loans will be capped at 20 percent going forward. Gold loans are expected to see significant growth supported by lower borrowing costs.
Yes Bank is examining the Supreme Court ruling regarding the write-down of Additional Tier-1 bonds. The Supreme Court upheld a prior Bombay High Court decision that quashed the bank's March 2020 action. Following the judgment, the bank is considering its legal options and future steps. The Reserve Bank of India and Yes Bank had previously appealed the High Court's ruling.
The AAIB has released a report following the accident involving VSR Ventures' Learjet 45XR in Mumbai. It noted serious injuries to all eight individuals onboard during the incident. Recommendations were made to the DGCA for pilot training checks and improving emergency protocols. The report highlighted the flight crew's failure to adhere to standard procedures which contributed to the accident.
The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) suspended operations at a railway base kitchen in Lucknow and cancelled the food registration of an establishment in Saharanpur after inspections uncovered food safety and hygiene lapses. The drive covered 41 railway catering units and two airline food suppliers. Officials seized 978 kg of unlabeled food items in Kanpur Nagar and collected 26 samples for laboratory testing.
India has instructed oil marketing companies to cease sugar diversion for ethanol production by the year 2026-27. This decision arises amid rising sugar prices and concerns over domestic sugar supply due to poor rainfall. Ethanol from sugarcane juice and other sugar-based feedstocks will not be included in the latest tender. The government aims to boost domestic sugar production and curb oil imports as part of its policies.
MacKenzie Scott has made a significant $15 million donation to the conservation organization Maliasili. This gift aims to enhance community-led conservation efforts throughout Africa, fostering sustainable ecological practices. Maliasili plans to strengthen over 100 African organizations and develop 400 leaders by 2030. Scott's funding will assist in mobilizing additional resources for these partner organizations over time.
New modelling suggests that eliminating modifiable health risks could add 12 years to healthy life expectancy at birth by 2050. Realising even part of this potential will require making prevention part of everyday life.
Varroc Engineering has announced a joint venture with Forsee Power to develop battery-pack solutions for electric vehicles. The collaboration will begin with battery packs for three-wheelers, with plans to expand into other vehicle segments. Varroc will acquire a 45 percent stake in Forsee Powers Indian subsidiary. This venture aims to combine expertise in battery technology and manufacturing for scalable solutions.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the importance of creating sustainably investable cities in India. She proposed a combination of public investment alongside private capital to achieve these goals. Various urban development initiatives have been established to support this approach effectively. The Urban Challenge Fund aims to improve municipal finances and is pivotal for project preparation. Overall, the strategies discussed will enhance urban planning and infrastructure developm
The Diplomat Season 4 leaves Kate and Hal facing a choice that could reshape their future. The finale raises questions about their loyalties, and where the Netflix thriller can go next.
Hazel Johnson transformed a personal tragedy into a lifelong battle against environmental pollution after losing her husband to lung cancer and witnessing health problems among her seven children. In 1979, she established the People for Community Recovery to demand cleaner air and water in Chicago. She was later recognised a sthe Mother of Environmental Justice Movement.
China said it was ready to work with India to allay its concerns of rising trade imbalance. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the trade imbalance was due to China's restrictions in market access to Indian goods and services. She said that India has not resorted to punitive tariffs to reign in large trade imbalances and prefers negotiations despite the process being time-consuming.
Sai Pallavi attended the international trailer launch of Ramayana, emphasising her preference for minimal makeup. She opted for a fresh-faced look, highlighting her natural features instead of bold cosmetics. The event featured her in a pink silk saree alongside understated accessories that complemented her appearance. Sai's consistent choice of simple beauty reflects a growing trend among celebrities favoring a natural aesthetic.
The Reserve Bank of India has approved the merger of Emirates NBD Bank's Indian branches with RBL Bank. This amalgamation will officially take effect on December 1, 2026, according to the central bank's announcement. Emirates NBD Bank initially opened its first Indian branch in Mumbai in 2017, expanding later to Gurugram and Chennai. The Finance Ministry had previously approved Emirates NBD's acquisition of a significant stake in RBL Bank.
Gold rate, silver price were up on Friday but both precious metals were jolted by weekly losses.
State-owned company HLL Lifecare launched HLL eStore, a digital platform aimed to expand access to its healthcare and wellness products across the country. The platform would be part of its broader digital transformation strategy, enabling customers, business partners and healthcare institutions to engage with the company through an integrated online marketplace. The eStore also offers medical products and supplies.
Carnation Hotels Private Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Omaxe Limited for a new hospitality venture. This partnership aims to operate 4,000 keys in key Indian destinations including travel and pilgrimage hotspots. The collaboration focuses on tier-two and tier-three cities to meet growing accommodation demands. Both companies bring extensive expertise in real estate development and hotel management.
National highway projects awarded experienced a 62.9% increase in distance during the April-September period. Electronic toll collection transactions also rose significantly, indicating increased digital use. Air cargo movement increased by 12%, and foreign tourist arrivals grew as well. The telecommunications sector expanded, adding over 29,000 kilometers of optical fiber cable. Overall, performance indicators across multiple infrastructure sectors have shown positive trends in FY27.
Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo is priced at Rs 2,99,900 in India, making it a premium option. The device features a larger display but compromises on camera specifications and battery life. Users will find a shift from Face ID to Touch ID for authentication, which may require adaptation. Repair costs for the Duo could add to its overall expense with potential high fees.
Diane Wilson, a Texas fisherwoman and a passionate advocate for the environment, has been at the forefront of the battle against plastic pollution instigated by Formosa Plastics. In 2019, she achieved a significant legal victory, securing a settlement that mandated no plastic waste discharge from the companys Point Comfort factory on Texas' Gulf Coast.
Indian Railways has stepped up its crackdown on unauthorised drone operations over railway tracks, stations and other infrastructure, citing safety and security risks. The action follows a Kollam court ruling that fined a man and sentenced him to one day of community service for illegally flying a drone over a railway line. The move could affect vloggers and rail enthusiasts filming trains, bridges, tunnels and scenic routes for social media without the required permissions.

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