The Economic Times

Taiwan's defence ministry detected Chinese military vessels and balloons operating near its territory. President Lai Ching-te pledged to safeguard Taiwan and prevent Chinese interference. He asserted that China's actions prove Beijing's authority does not extend to Taiwan. The Republic of China and the People's Republic of China are not subordinate to each other.

President Donald Trump announced plans to discuss restoring internet access in Iran with Elon Musk. Amidst ongoing anti-government protests and a government-imposed internet blackout, Trump expressed confidence in Musk's company, SpaceX, and its satellite internet service, Starlink, which has been utilized in Iran.

US President Donald Trump is weighing options to address the widespread protests in Iran. These considerations include potential military action, cyber operations, and increased sanctions. The demonstrations have led to significant detentions and casualties. The US is signaling its readiness to support the Iranian people.

Choosing a retirement facility over ones own home will call for many financial decisions. Buying or renting the place; selling or renting the house; managing funds for routine monthly payments that would rise with inflation; estimating the contributions from others, especially children; and estimating healthcare and other expenses.

If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, heres a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 85th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains how these indicators differ from each other.

TrendMap's 10-year performance tracker reveals metals and real estate sectors as long-term outperformers among nine key NSE indices. Driven by robust demand and limited supply, these sectors have consistently delivered strong returns over the past decade. The analysis utilises calendar year returns and compounded average returns for its comprehensive ranking.

For discerning buyers, the experience must remain central. A successful branded residence merges design coherence, integrated services, and superior craftsmanship to make daily living noticeably better.

Rohit Kumar, a former gym trainer, ventured into the cafe business with no prior experience, opening Olipo Cafe & Bakery. Despite initial assumptions of easy money, he discovered the industry's tight margins and high working capital needs. Kumar now runs two successful cafes in Delhi, emphasising careful menu design, financial management, and a focus on walk-in customers for profitability.

Inflation significantly erodes the purchasing power of savings, especially over long investment horizons like retirement. Failing to account for inflation, particularly in expenses like education and healthcare, leads to an underestimated retirement corpus. A balanced asset allocation is crucial for managing inflation risk and ensuring long-term financial security.

Policyholders face significant delays in insurance claim resolutions, with many waiting six months to over a year for their complaints to be heard by insurance ombudsmen. Despite official reports showing a high disposal rate, on-ground experiences reveal a growing backlog, particularly at busy centers, highlighting the need for more ombudsman offices and streamlined processes.

Returning Indians face significant tax challenges, often experiencing 'return shock' due to complex rules on residency, overseas income, and foreign assets. Misclassifying residential status is a common, costly error. Experts advise meticulous day-count tracking, prompt account conversions, and proactive planning to navigate these complexities and avoid penalties.

Even after paying taxes in India, NRIs may be taxed in their country of residence on the same income. Most nations offer foreign tax credit for taxes paid in India, but the mechanics of claiming it involve additional compliance, documentation, and potential timing mismatches.

Most Indians now prefer the new tax regime for its simplicity and higher in-hand pay. Those sticking to the old regime need careful tax planning. This includes maintaining proper documentation for deductions like HRA and ensuring compliance with TDS rules. Smart salary structuring and capital gains tax optimisation are key strategies for both regimes.

The US has captured Venezuelan President Maduro, seizing control of its vast oil reserves. This move significantly reshapes global energy dynamics, granting the US unprecedented leverage. While short-term oil prices may spike due to uncertainty, the long-term outlook suggests potential price pressure as Venezuela's production could increase.

Activists report at least 538 killed in Iran's crackdown on nationwide protests, with over 10,600 detained. Tehran warns the U.S. and Israel are legitimate targets if America intervenes. U.S. President Trump stated very strong options are being considered in response to Iran's threats.

Protests are surging across Iran, with hundreds of thousands taking to the streets against the regime's corruption and economic mismanagement. Global leaders and investors are watching closely as the possibility of the Islamic Republic's overthrow looms, potentially transforming geopolitics and energy markets. The regime faces a narrowing window to regain control amidst a brutal crackdown.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell revealed Sunday that the Trump administration has threatened him with a criminal indictment. This follows grand jury subpoenas served to the Fed on Friday, which Powell described as a pretext to pressure him in a dispute over interest rates. The subpoenas are related to his testimony before the Senate Banking Committee last June.

Bankers said the decision has altered the company's liability profile, adding that clarity on its funding needs and future business plans are crucial for considering fresh funding.

Trents strategy is similar to some of the worlds largest retailers, including Spains Inditex, owner of Zara, and British department store chain Primark, which has long prioritised dense store networks in high-footfall catchments, using scale for more bargaining power with vendors and real estate developers.

Europe takes center stage in Indian diplomacy this week. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visits Monday, seeking trade expansion before the EU free trade agreement. France's Emmanuel Bonne arrives Monday and Tuesday, preparing for President Macron's February trip. Poland's foreign minister Radosaw Sikorski follows. Prime Minister Modi meets Merz in Ahmedabad to boost cooperation.

Beverages makers like Coca-Cola and Kingfisher are facing a critical shortage of aluminium cans ahead of the summer seasons. Manufacturers are doubling import orders from West Asia and Sri Lanka due to manufacturing compliance delays and rising demand, aiming to prevent a repeat of last year's shortages. Beer makers are seeking government intervention to ease certification requirements for imported cans.

As Assam gears up for the 2026 assembly elections, the air is heavy with the sorrow of losing beloved cultural figure Zubeen Garg. With the ruling BJP aiming for a hat-trick in governance, they are rolling out fresh faces to rally support. Meanwhile, opposition parties are banding together in a spirited effort to take on the BJP's dominance.

Businesses in India are urging the government to prioritize economic growth in the upcoming budget. They are calling for more reforms and increased government spending on infrastructure. Incentives for private investment and privatization are also key demands. Support for exporters facing challenges from US tariffs is crucial. The budget is expected to outline the path for future economic expansion.

As West Bengal gears up for the pivotal 2026 assembly elections, the air is thick with political tension. The electoral rolls are seeing a targeted revision, setting the stage for a fierce showdown. Major players like the Trinamool Congress and the BJP are hitting the ground running with their campaigns.

Adani Group will invest 1.5 lakh crore in Gujarat's Kutch region over the next five years. This investment will boost renewable energy projects and expand port capacity. The group is developing the world's largest renewable energy park in Khavda. Mundra port capacity will double in the next decade. Cargo volumes show strong growth.

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani plans a massive 7 lakh crore investment in Gujarat. This will boost clean energy, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. Jamnagar will become a global hub for green energy exports. Reliance will also build India's largest AI-ready data centre. The company will support India's Olympic ambitions and expand social infrastructure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urges global investors to seize India's growth opportunities. He positions Saurashtra and Kutch as vital centers for manufacturing. India's economic reforms, policy certainty, and strong performance create a favorable investment climate. The nation is rapidly advancing, offering significant potential for international businesses. This region supports diverse manufacturing needs, from basic tools to advanced components.

A Supreme Court ruling impacts shareholders in company mergers. Those receiving new shares via share-swap may face taxes on gains, even without selling. This applies if their old shares were considered 'stock-in-trade'. The difference in value between old and new shares will be taxed as business income. This decision could lead to more tax disputes for investors and traders.

While Trump's actions have unnerved leaders around the globe, Canadians have particular reason to worry. After all, with Greenland, Trump and his advisers are seeking control - even raising the possibility of military action - of a territory that is democratic, strategically located in the Arctic, and part of Nato. Canada is all of those things, too.

India's credit demand is surging. Lower taxes and supportive monetary policy are fueling investment. Outstanding bank credit has crossed a major milestone. This growth surpasses projections, indicating a strong economic rebound. Auto loans, small and mid-sized companies, and home loans are key drivers. Investment intentions are translating into spending, creating a positive environment.

The downturn in FY21 was sharp, with FM radio ad revenues plunging to 941 crore. Since then, the recovery has been steady. Revenues rose to 1,227 crore in FY22, climbed to 1,547 crore in FY23 and reached 1,776 crore in FY24, according to data submitted by private FM radio operators to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai).

India's largest solar equipment maker, Waaree Energies, is aggressively acquiring companies across the green energy value chain. This expansion includes transmission, distribution, grid connectivity, and EPC services. The company is also growing its battery, inverter, transformer, and electrolyzer businesses.

Poddar is currently serving his gardening leave and is expected to formally exit the firm by the end of January.

Companies are using insolvency proceedings to acquire urban real estate. This process offers clear titles and approvals, attracting developers. Large conglomerates are building land banks through these deals. Recent acquisitions include significant land parcels in Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai. This trend highlights the growing role of the bankruptcy framework in India's property market.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's India visit is cancelled. Growing protests in Iran and threats of external intervention have led to this decision. India is monitoring the situation closely. The future of Chabahar Port was a key agenda item. India had secured a sanctions waiver for the port. The port is vital for Afghanistan and Central Asian states.

Budget FY26 expectations: The Confederation of Indian Industry suggests a three-year plan for selling stakes in government companies. This strategy aims to speed up privatisation. The industry body estimates a significant amount could be raised to fuel development. The proposal includes gauging investor interest first and then prioritising companies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a grand vision for India's next thousand years at Somnath. He highlighted the nation's cultural renaissance and the confidence of its citizens. Modi recalled historical attacks on the Somnath temple, emphasizing its reconstruction as a symbol of victory and resilience. He urged vigilance against divisive forces, stressing unity for India's future glory.

India urged greater international collaboration for a faster global energy transition, emphasizing technology transfer, affordable finance, and capacity building for developing nations. Renewable energy minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted India's commitment to its 2030 non-fossil fuel capacity target and 2070 net-zero goal, noting the significant investment opportunities in the sector.

Highway developers are pushing back against the government's proposal to end arbitration for major road projects. They warn that removing this dispute resolution mechanism could lead to longer legal battles and higher financial claims due to mounting interest. Developers suggest structured settlements and improved dispute resolution within the authority instead.

Clean energy investment is set to continue its upward trend. Economic factors strongly support the shift to cleaner technologies. Damilola Ogunbiyi of Sustainable Energy for All highlights this momentum. India is seen as a leader in this transition, sharing its expertise. Cooperation among developing nations is a key focus. India's work on energy efficiency is also crucial for these economies.

The Centre has released over 83,000 crore to states for capital investment. This is part of the special assistance scheme for capital investment. The government is confident of fully utilizing the allocation by the fiscal year end. The scheme provides interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure.

As the world overflows with obligate fellows, it is natural for the obligated to take a splash in the river of resolutions. It's a different issue that no one wants to become the river itself. Just a dip of ablution and it is done. If the major rivers could voice their struggles and share their grief, the wise men would probably understand the reason.

The hatchback market in India is experiencing a revitalization, with a remarkable 20% surge in sales reported for the last quarter of 2025. Analysts attribute this upswing to recent GST reductions that have made these compact vehicles more accessible for first-time drivers. Maruti Suzuki has noted a 5% uptick in first-time buyers, indicating a potential shift in consumer trends.

Sneakers have been the kings of footwear for twenty years running, but some market analysts are ringing alarm bells about a possible downturn, pointing to a dip in growth rates. However, there's a camp of optimists who believe that the demand for comfy kicks will never fade.

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, V D Satheesan, alleged that the government was spending crores of rupees on the propaganda using party volunteers keeping an eye on the upcoming assembly polls.

ED is investigating if funds for the construction of the varsity were sourced from alleged proceeds of crime, the sources told PTI.

Britain is discussing with NATO allies how to bolster Arctic security against Russia and China, according to a government minister. These talks are described as routine, not a direct response to U.S. President Trump's desire to acquire Greenland. The UK agrees that Russia and China are increasingly competitive in the Arctic, emphasizing the need for an effective deterrent.

We have seen BJP mayor in Thiruvananthapuram and tomorrow we will see BJP CM in Kerala, said Shah. People have wiped out Communist parties all over the world, and Congress is on a slippery slope, the BJP leader added.

Leading industrialists have announced significant investment commitments in Gujarat. Reliance Industries will invest Rs 7 lakh crore over five years, focusing on green energy and technology. Adani Group plans Rs 1.50 lakh crore in Mundra for energy projects. Other companies will also invest in manufacturing and skill development.