The Economic Times

China is bearing much of Asias crude demand reduction as the Iran war disrupts Middle East oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Its July imports rose from Junes near-decade low but remained 24.3% below last year. Lower imports, supported by large stockpiles, are helping balance tighter regional supplies.

Australian outdoor advertising company oOh!media has agreed to be acquired by infrastructure investor I Squared Capital for A$1.04 billion, including debt. The deal values its equity at about A$898 million, with shareholders receiving A$1.70 per share.

Nikita Rawal recently grabbed attention after a surprising moment at a red carpet event was caught on camera. A female fan approached her for a selfie, but the interaction suddenly became unexpected. The video quickly went viral online. Nikita, known for films like Garam Masala and Black & White, has also worked in Telugu cinema and has upcoming projects. Read on!

If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, heres a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 113th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains how this fund raising option works.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) remains steadfast in its support for the newly implemented closing auction system. Despite initial trading fluctuations shaking investor confidence, the initiative is designed to enhance price discovery while aligning with international standards. However, a decrease in participation from proprietary traders has resulted in reduced liquidity. Sebi advocates for technology enhancements and a boost in order flows to ensure the system's effectivenes

Welcome to TrendMap, your quick guide to investment performance. This edition tracks 10 years of global equity returns. Currency fluctuations impact the returns on foreign investments. To capture the real value from an Indian investors standpoint, these returns are adjusted to reflect their equivalent in Indian rupees. The key takeaway: no market dominates, diversification is important. By Sameer Bhardwaj.

Financial action is moving faster than financial preparedness among employees, with many investing, exploring new opportunities, and thinking about long-term goals, but still seeking clarity on fundamentals. A survey by financial education firm Finsafe sheds light on this paradox and the role employers can play.

Financial freedom isnt about buying everything you want. Its the ability to say yes to the opportunities that matter most. Those choices evolve as you grow. For teenagers, it could mean pursuing a hobby because you love itnot because its the cheapest optionor turning a skill into a side hustle by funding your own supplies or instruments, or supporting a cause you care about without relying on your parents for money.

Global investing is no longer just for the affluent in India. Individuals now have the opportunity to diversify their investment portfolios across various economies and currencies, leading to notable benefits. Aggressive investors should consider allocating around twenty to twenty-five percent of their portfolio internationally. However, concentrated thematic funds can be risky due to high valuations, while passive index funds present a straightforward and affordable way to engage in global mark

Dr S. Prakash, CEO, Health Insurance Ecosystem & Strategic Partnerships, General Insurance Council, speaks to Preeti Kulkarni on policyholders complaints around claim rejections, spike in renewal premiums and the industrys push for greater standardisation in treatment protocols and billing practices.

The objective of life insurance is to provide a replacement income to the dependents of the deceased employee. That is why it is important to link the GTL cover to an employees annual salary. Employers who link the sum assured to CTC generally use a multiple of 2.

A prolonged consolidation in Indian equities has tested investors patience. But Bajaj Asset Managements Managing Director Ganesh Mohan tells Sameer Bhardwaj that this is precisely when disciplined investors should stay the course.

Introduced in 2013, direct mutual fund plans present a cost-effective alternative for investors, accounting for thirty percent of total assets under management. However, it has been observed that those who opt for direct plans tend to exit their investments earlier than those in regular plans. Despite the mathematical advantage of direct plans, behavioral trends reveal a notable gap in performance.

Vamsi Ayyagari and Gajendra Sharma are among professionals who are leaving corporate jobs to follow their entrepreneurial dreams. They focus on creating financial buffers while ensuring robust emergency funds and sufficient insurance coverage before making significant career changes. A solid retirement fund is similarly prioritized to support them during these new ventures, with careful planning reducing the risks of stepping away from stable employment.

Generation Z places a strong emphasis on balancing experiences and career adaptability while ensuring financial security. This generation is becoming increasingly knowledgeable about their financial objectives and is unafraid to express their needs. With a focus on early investment and varied financial opportunities, Gen Z effectively navigates modern economic challenges through credit products, and they seek clarity in career guidance from employers right from the start.

Modern Indians are redefining investment strategies; rather than saving first, the youth now prioritize their financial goals before choosing investment products. This evolution signifies a desire for financial independence, allowing individuals the liberty to make choices unburdened by financial strain. The advent of technology and improving accessibility to investment options has significantly enhanced wealth accumulation opportunities, indicating a broader trend of increasing incomes across t

Kattalan, an action-packed Malayalam thriller, is set to make digital debut, following its theatrical release on May 28. The film enriches the Mikhael Extended Universe by introducing fresh characters and intricate connections. Viewers will join protagonist Antony in his gripping quest to dismantle a sinister ivory trade empire. Read on to know when and where to watch it online.

Iran says a deal with Oman on new shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz is in its final stages, but reopening the strategic waterway depends on U.S. concessions, including compensation, sanctions relief and an end to military threats. The developments come amid heightened regional tensions and attacks on shipping.

Will be 4th acquisition for the US private equity giant in Indias healthsector in four months. Kedaara to make 5x rupee returns on exit.

While it is understandable to feel overcome with righteous fury if you have been slighted or made to feel lesser than, it is not advisable to let fury consume you or rule you. An old Russian proverb warns us about getting overpowered by desire for revenge.

Peace is a blessing. It is also a privilege that is often taken for granted. Years ago, the USs former president Jimmy Carter explained why peace is not just the absence of strife but also a boon that helps people grow up with a loving family.

Indian exporters face delays due to congestion at Singapore and Colombo ports. A surge in China-US trade is reducing container availability globally. Freight rates have significantly increased for major shipping routes. Shipping lines are citing container shortages and delaying bookings for exporters. This situation impacts Indian trade and causes increased transit times.

Restaurants nationwide are voluntarily closing outlets for deep cleaning and hygiene improvements. Regulatory crackdowns over food safety and labelling violations are intensifying across India. Many chains are reducing artificial food colours and enhancing staff training programs. Some establishments are pursuing legal action after facing forced shutdowns and licence suspensions.

Life cant be ascertained as to how fruitful it was when we are living it. A wisdom imparted by French statesman Charles de Gaulle speaks of how we understand how meaningful our lives were when we were nearing death.

Indias non-fossil power capacity has crossed 300 GW, reaching 60% of its 500-GW target for 2030. Solar leads with 164.59 GW, while non-fossil sources now account for more than 54% of the countrys total installed generation capacity.

Manav Sardana purchased a penthouse for 271 crore, setting a new record. This luxury unit boasts 17,200 sq ft of super area and 10,500 sq ft carpet area. DLF's The Dahlias project has seen significant sales, with prices exceeding 1 lakh per square foot. The developer noted strong interest from tier-two cities and NRI buyers. Earlier, Madhusudan Kela bought a flat in the same project for 120.7 crore.

Coal stocks at Indian power plants are expected to fall to 24-30 million tonnes by September-end from about 37 million tonnes currently, amid seasonal supply constraints, deficient monsoon and higher temperatures, before rebuilding from mid-November.

The government plans to revamp the five-decade-old Integrated Child Development Services programme by upgrading Anganwadi centres, strengthening nutrition delivery and empowering frontline workers. The proposed changes also include better remuneration and social security coverage for Anganwadi workers.

Proposed government rules may increase compliance burdens for India's OTT industry. Platforms could need to retrofit thousands of hours of existing films and shows. These new standards will apply to websites, mobile applications, and digital content. Larger platforms have one year to comply with non-negotiable provisions. All establishments must fully meet accessibility standards within two years.

Britannia Industries MD Rakshit Hargave backed FSSAIs crackdown on packaged foods and beverages, saying consumer interests should be protected. Britannia is also strengthening its regional strategy amid rising competition and plans price increases of 1.5-2% in the second quarter.

Government will meet state-owned lenders to attract foreign investment. This aims to stabilize the rupee and bridge the current-account gap. The meeting will also focus on deposit mobilization and supporting small businesses. Fresh foreign capital inflows will boost reserves and domestic manufacturing. Durable foreign direct investment is preferred over short-term deposits.

A pilot is under scrutiny for substance use after a recent flight incident. Initial screening results were non-negative, requiring further confirmatory testing. Samples have been sent for analysis, and a final report is currently awaited. Aviation medicine specialists note that therapeutic treatments can also trigger such results. This follows a previous incident involving another Air India pilot in April.

Ironhill has acquired its US namesake through bankruptcy proceedings, creating a 450-crore hospitality group. The Indian microbrewery chain has invested about $7 million in the US business and plans to expand its combined network to around 43 outlets by 2030.

Asset reconstruction companies bought twenty-six thousand three hundred four crore rupees of bad loans. This acquisition saw a fifty-six percent increase from the previous year's figures. The overall non-performing asset ratio in the banking system continued its downward trend. Banks have been resolving legacy stressed assets for several years now. Transactions are increasingly being settled in cash and through security receipts.

Jammu and Kashmir police attached property valued at seventy lakh rupees. Searches were conducted at twenty-six locations in Baramulla district. This action is connected to a UAPA case registered in two thousand eight. An arrest warrant was also obtained for another accused individual. The Jamaat-e-Islami outfit was banned by the central government.

Albert Camus quote, Everything is forgotten, even a great love. That's what's sad about life, and also what's wonderful about it, reflects on how love, pain and memories slowly change with time. The quote, from his early novel A Happy Death, explores the bittersweet nature of forgetting and is followed by a look at Camus life, major works, philosophy and lasting influence on literature.

Basant Kumar Meghwal secured silver in the men's high jump event. Shahnavaz Khan earned a bronze medal in the men's long jump competition. These medals brought India's total to three at the championships. Ashish Yadav had previously won silver in the javelin throw. This performance matches India's best-ever medal tally at the event.

West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi has asked all universities to observe August 14. This day will remember the horrors of Partition and its impact. The observance aims to educate the younger generation about this historical event. Bengal experienced immense suffering and disruption during the Partition. The state government is also distributing national flags for Independence Day.

The Territorial Army is expanding its role to include AI and cybersecurity experts. This initiative aims to infuse technical talent into the part-time military reserve force. Direct induction and honorary commissions are planned for specialized personnel. An innovation cell is already operational, conducting hackathons and internships. Future plans include national-level hackathons for cyber defense capabilities.

ACME Solar Holdings plans to invest 15,000-20,000 crore to expand its renewable energy business, with battery storage as a key focus. The company aims to deploy about 10 GWh of battery capacity this year and enter the data centre power market.

School holiday, August 10: In anticipation of heavy rainfall across multiple regions in India on August 10, 2026, district administrations are preparing to assess local conditions for possible school closures. It's important to note that Telangana's schools will be shut for the Bonalu festival, which is unrelated to the ongoing rain warnings. Additionally, states such as Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are on alert for similar weather developments.

Several offshore banks are becoming reluctant to issue or renew international credit cards for wealthy resident Indians due to Indias 180-day rule on deploying overseas funds. The requirement is also creating difficulties for minors holding foreign accounts under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme.

Govinda has recalled a candid conversation with Salman Khan before Partner, saying he advised the actor to focus on himself during a difficult phase and told him he would go on to rule Bollywood for 10 years. Govinda also remembered telling Salman, You are the hero, but you dont look like one right now, while encouraging him to exercise and regain his confidence.

Passengers on an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi reported severe turbulence and concerns about the pilot's behavior. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is investigating the incident which caused passenger injuries. Initial screening tests for the pilot indicated a need for further confirmatory analysis. Passengers demanded accountability from aviation authorities and the airline for the incident. The flight experienced a sudden loss of altitude during its journey.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day has surpassed Avatar: The Way of Water as India's top-grossing Hollywood movie. The film has collected 407 crore in India, exceeding its predecessor's lifetime earnings. Aggressive marketing and the character's multi-generational appeal significantly boosted audience interest before its release. Exhibitors and analysts predict a lifetime collection of at least 450 crore due to sustained audience engagement.

Does high blood sugar make you more susceptible to cancer or lead to more aggressive growth of cancerous cells? An article published in Stanford Medicine News Centre says the relationship between sugar and cancer is not cut and dried but complicated.

Indian REITs could gain greater tax flexibility under the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which allows SPVs to opt for concessional corporate tax rates, avoid future MAT and use accumulated MAT credits while retaining tax-exempt dividends for unitholders.

Napolon Bonapartes famous quote on endlessly pursuing money and more money and power and more power reflects an extreme view of ambition and success. Heres the meaning behind the quote, its attribution to Abel Gances 1927 film Napolon, and a look at the French emperors remarkable rise, military career, reforms and eventual downfall.