The Economic Times

Lionel Messi has finally retired from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable Argentina career that included heartbreak, criticism, a brief retirement and, ultimately, World Cup glory. The journey began when Barcelona signed him at 13 in an agreement famously written on a napkin. At 29, after Argentina lost another major final, Messi quit the national team, but returned weeks later. He went on to win the 2021 Copa America and captain Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, ending t

Canara Bank recovered all dues totaling 510 crore from Rajesh Exports. This recovery followed an order by a debt recovery tribunal. The bank initiated this action after the company blocked other recovery attempts. Rajesh Exports faced allegations of financial misrepresentation from SEBI. The bank was the largest creditor for the gold and jewellery exporter.

Ralph Waldo Emerson's Quote of the Day, A man's wife has more power over him than the state has, was written in his private journal between 1835 and 1838. The statement explores how personal relationships can exert a stronger influence on an individual than formal institutions and government authority. The quote also connects with Emerson's wider philosophy of individualism, self-reliance and the tension between personal freedom and external influence.

India's economy shows strong near-term momentum, driven by domestic factors and exports. The Reserve Bank of India's deposit mobilisation offers significant balance of payments support. This action also provides a stable floor for the Indian rupee against the US dollar. All three economic sectors contributed to the first quarter's robust GDP growth. Structural reforms implemented over the past twelve years are now yielding beneficial results.

HDFC Bank's board faces a difficult CEO succession task with a thin internal leadership pipeline. Regulatory tenure limits may push the bank towards a wider external executive search. Analysts suggest candidates from other banks and NBFCs could be considered. Jagdishan's exit offers an opportunity for a strategic reset and narrative change. The bank's strong franchise and financial profile should mitigate transition risks.

As of October first, banks will bear the new burden of overseeing cross-border payment transactions. They are required to confirm the validity of service contracts and foreign entities involved. Furthermore, banks will also be tasked with tracking export revenues and handling overdue export bills, creating a challenging landscape in service imports and exports aimed at curbing money laundering and suspicious trading practices.

India seeks predictable regulatory pathways in Brazil to boost pharmaceutical exports. This move aims to ensure affordable and quality medicines for accessible healthcare. Both nations agreed to finalize terms for expanding the India-Mercosur trade agreement. Bilateral trade between India and Brazil reached $15.07 billion in 2025-26. The countries aim to increase this trade to $30 billion by 2030.

India's economic activity and external position show relative stability amid global risks. Domestic demand continues to support economic activity, which is expected to remain steady. Easing cost pressures and firm demand conditions will support future economic activity. However, El Nino poses risks to food inflation and crop yields, impacting edible oil prices. The finance ministry closely monitors global bond markets and investment capital flows.

India's services sector experienced broad-based growth in June. Eighteen of nineteen tracked segments expanded, with eight achieving double-digit gains. Real estate led this expansion, growing 24.7% year-on-year. Retail and wholesale trade also showed strong performance, growing 18% and 15.1% respectively. Air transport was the only segment to contract, declining 6%.

The Centre's fiscal deficit for April-July FY27 stood at 26.8 percent of the budget estimate. This figure showed a slight decrease compared to the previous year's deficit. Total receipts grew faster than total expenditure, indicating fiscal stability. Capital expenditure surged by nearly 30 percent during this period. Major subsidies utilization was 37 percent of the budgeted amount.

Transactions were either not reported, were undervalued or had suspected benami ownership; deals span bulk land purchases, agri land & other high-value properties

Nine pharmaceutical firms reached deals with the Trump administration for lower drug prices. These agreements expand the total number of companies to twenty-six manufacturers. The deals cover medicines for chronic and rare diseases, benefiting Medicaid programs. Sun Pharma will contribute antibiotics to the US Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve. These initiatives aim to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and lower costs.

The landscape of India's microdrama industry is evolving, shifting from an emphasis on acquiring users to nurturing and monetizing them. Currently, active paying users represent a small fraction of the total users. Analysts predict that the market will converge around a few dominant firms as they navigate global competition and find ways to lower production expenses. To thrive, platforms must prioritize user engagement and sustainable revenue streams.

Maruti Suzuki will invest Rs 77,500 crore in capital expenditure over five years. This significant investment aims to capitalize on anticipated demand momentum and industry expansion. The company expects the Indian car industry to grow substantially by 2031. Maruti Suzuki's current products are also compatible with E20 fuel. This plan represents a notable increase from previous investment announcements.

The Supreme Court took action on Monday by dismissing a public interest litigation that sought mandatory transparency regarding ethanol percentages on fuel nozzles and bills. Advising the petitioner to consult a competent authority instead, the court noted the Attorney General's view of the application as proxy litigation, hinting at broader implications for such requests.

GRT Jewellers will acquire a 74.12% stake in Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri for up to 1,033.71 crore. This acquisition will expand GRT's retail network to 106 stores across India. GRT will also launch a mandatory open offer for the remaining 26% stake. The deal will see TBZ promoters resign from the board after completion. Some promoters may enter employment or consultancy arrangements to aid the transition.

India achieved class-leading growth of 7.8% in the April-June quarter. Sectoral performance was surprisingly robust across agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Consumption defied global energy shocks and investment surprised on the upside. This broad outperformance should confound naysayers and foreign investors. Growth resilience affects the inflation outlook and the central bank's interest rate trajectory.

Individuals over forty hold most bank deposits, while younger workers contribute less. Term deposits grew significantly, outpacing savings and current accounts. Large deposits of one crore and above formed a substantial portion. Bank credit growth accelerated, driven by corporate sector loans. Interest rates on loans below nine percent increased notably.

Blaise Pascal was a child mathematical prodigy who wrote about vibrating bodies at 11, developed a major geometry theorem by 16 and built the Pascaline mechanical calculator before turning 19. In 1654, a gambling puzzle about dividing stakes in an interrupted game led Pascal into correspondence with Pierre de Fermat. Their work introduced new ways to calculate mathematical expectation and helped lay the foundation for modern probability theory.

Mahanagar Gas announced price increases for CNG and domestic piped natural gas. CNG prices rose by Rs 2 per kg and PNG by Rs 1 per SCM. These revisions are attributed to escalating input gas costs from Middle East tensions. The company stated this hike will partially offset rising expenses and ensure supply. This price adjustment affects numerous vehicles and domestic consumers across several regions.

The 1897 North Pole balloon expedition led by Swedish explorer Salomon August Andre ended in disaster when his balloon became uncontrollable and disappeared over the Arctic. For 33 years, the fate of Andre and his two companions remained unknown until their remains, diaries and photographs were discovered on a remote Svalbard island in 1930, revealing how the expedition unfolded after the balloon crashed.

HDFC Bank is actively searching for a new chief executive officer. The bank expects to appoint an executive search firm soon. Several internal and external candidates are being considered for the top position. The new leader will focus on restoring investor confidence and driving growth. This succession occurs as the bank navigates a crucial leadership transition.

Gen Z employees today are embracing open dialogue around salaries and financial goals, shaking up traditional workplace dynamics. In contrast, older employees often find this trend surprising and unsettling. This shift towards salary transparency could enhance workplace relations and minimize salary gaps. As Gen Z redefines workplace values, our views on compensation and expectations may undergo significant transformation.

ONGC chairman Arun Kumar Singh stated the company is prepared for oil prices between $60-90 per barrel. The company's integrated operations help offset gains or losses linked to crude price variations. ONGC plans to expand its renewable energy portfolio to 30% over the next decade. A global oil trading joint venture is planned for establishment by year-end. Significant investment is earmarked for deepwater exploration, targeting 87 wells by 2030-31.

A new five-member bench will decide Subhash Chandra's repayment plan. This personal insolvency case involves claims exceeding twenty-two thousand crore rupees. A previous division bench failed to reach a majority verdict on the plan. Dissenting lenders have approached the insolvency appellate tribunal regarding the matter. The bench will commence hearings on Tuesday morning.

Bank credit to industry grew by twenty percent in July, while agriculture advances expanded faster. Non-food bank credit saw nineteen point one percent growth year-on-year. Large and medium industries experienced accelerated credit growth, and micro and small industries showed steady expansion. Services sector credit grew by twenty-two point nine percent, supported by financial companies and trade.

New research suggests childhood trauma may be linked to difficulties experiencing pleasure in adulthood through changes in brain pathways involving the hippocampus, a region usually associated with memory. The study found that people with a history of childhood trauma and disrupted hippocampal pathways reported more anhedonia, while researchers say further work is needed to determine whether these changes can be targeted to improve motivation and pleasure.

Mumbai-based nutritionist Vanshika Khurana has shared an exciting chickpea wrap recipe that serves as a delicious and wholesome replacement for store-bought meals. Packed with high levels of protein and fiber, this dish begins with roasting chickpeas and blending a creamy dressing. The completed wrap, made with a whole-wheat tortilla, promises to deliver a fulfilling and nourishing dining experience.

Mankind Pharma has completed the sale of its entire stake in Broadway Hospitality Services. The transaction involved transferring 100 percent ownership to AKRK Projects LLP and its partners. This divestment officially concluded on August 31, 2026, as per the company's filing. Broadway Hospitality Services is no longer a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mankind Pharma. The total consideration for this divestment was reported as Rs 49 crore.

At thirty-four, Harvard-trained Dr. Saurabh Sethi embraced seven pivotal lifestyle shifts. He advocates for post-meal walks to help regulate blood glucose. Incorporating over thirty varied plants in a weekly diet bolsters gut health and nutrient absorption. He recommends completing dinner at least three hours before bedtime to ensure better nighttime glucose control and minimize reflux. Ensuring seven to nine hours of sleep is also crucial for blood sugar and appetite regulation.

Karnataka food safety officials seized products valued at Rs 5.99 lakh during a special inspection drive. The drive targeted sweet manufacturing units across several districts on August 31. Expired curd and improperly labelled chocolate decorations were among the seized items. Misbranded food products lacking mandatory details were also confiscated by authorities. The department will initiate legal action against establishments found violating food safety standards.

Conservationists have successfully reversed dramatic wildlife declines through dedicated efforts. Bold partnerships and investments have brought species back from the brink of extinction. The bald eagle and California condor exemplify these remarkable recovery achievements. These successes demonstrate the power of investing in wildlife conservation initiatives. Such collaborative work prevents species from becoming endangered in the first place.

Quote of the day by Nikola Tesla, A new idea must not be judged by its immediate results, explains why new ideas need time before their value can be understood. The quote from Teslas 1919 autobiography My Inventions focuses on patience, persistence, long-term vision and trust in creative work. Teslas own career also shows how inventions can face rejection, financial problems and doubt before influencing technology.

Iran launched missiles at two United States air bases in Jordan overnight. This action followed a United States strike on Iran's Larak Island earlier. United States President Donald Trump vowed a strong response to the Iranian missile attacks. New United States economic sanctions are reportedly impacting Iran's struggling economy. Both nations are engaged in escalating hostilities and retaliatory actions.

Altaf Bukhari criticizes J&K Bank's perceived partisan approach towards the union territory. He suggests the bank's focus has shifted away from Kashmir's credit growth. Bukhari also expressed concerns about job opportunities for local youth. He questioned the representation of J&K people on the bank's board. Reports of shifting the bank's headquarters from Srinagar were also mentioned.

The Living Bog Project began Ireland's largest raised bog restoration in 2016. This initiative aimed to recreate over 750 hectares of active raised bog habitat. Peat dams were installed to block drains and restore water flow to the bogs. Pioneer vegetation and species returned as restoration work progressed across 12 sites.

The Companies Compliance Facilitation Scheme has seen a two-week extension, allowing companies more time to fulfill their statutory filing obligations. Stakeholders voiced their need for this additional compliance window to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Now, businesses can rectify any pending submissions in the MCA-21 registry, as they have until September 15 to take advantage of this second extension.

Long before New York Citys modern subway system opened in 1904, a millionaire had already built a secret underground railway beneath Broadway. The unusual pneumatic transit experiment drew hundreds of thousands of riders but ultimately disappeared after political opposition and an economic crisis brought the ambitious project to an end.

India's services sector saw a remarkable expansion in July, with exports climbing 13.4% to USD 38.25 billion alongside a 19.1% rise in imports to USD 20.61 billion. This development yielded a services trade surplus nearing USD 17.65 billion. For the period from April to July, total services exports stood at USD 145 billion, and imports were at USD 75.14 billion.

India's food inflation is undergoing a shift in its composition, with protein-rich items, processed foods and edible oils emerging as major contributors to price pressures, even as the persistence of El Nino conditions raises risks for crop yields and food prices, noted the Monthly Economic Report of August 2026 released by the finance ministry.

Subhash Chandra's insolvency case: The National Company Law Tribunal has not issued a final order in the Rs 22,000 case. A two-member bench could not reach a majority verdict due to a third member's differing opinion. The matter has been sent back to the NCLT President for further direction. This personal insolvency case involves claims exceeding twenty-two thousand crore rupees. The President may appoint another member or issue an order to resolve the deadlock.

Bank gold loans grew significantly, though at a slower pace. Personal loans also saw increased growth, driven by housing and vehicle financing. New regulations adjusted loan-to-value ratios and repayment tenures for gold loans. Housing and vehicle loans experienced notable year-on-year increases in their outstanding amounts. Overall bank credit expanded robustly, with services sector leading the growth.

Eastern Coalfields Limited is implementing safety measures at Khandra Colliery. Surface cracks were observed near Nilkanth Temple on July 28, 2026. Unauthorised structures hinder effective surface filling and may cause air ingress. Sealing the mine from the surface is a proactive safety intervention. The company is monitoring the situation and ensuring employee safety.

ONGC plans to enter crude and petroleum product trading operations soon. A new strategic petroleum reserve will be built in Mangalore. Exploration and production remain ONGC's central strategic focus. The company will spend one lakh crore on deepwater drilling by 2031. This expansion aims to strengthen supply security and extract more value.

Prince Harrys Quote of the Day from his memoir Spare raises a striking question about whether people unknowingly repeat the mistakes and patterns of previous generations. The words take on added significance when viewed against Harrys childhood, his relationship with the Royal Family, his experiences with intense media scrutiny and the very different path he later chose for himself and his family.

The Crescent Hotel, established in 1886, was a luxurious retreat for wealthy visitors drawn to its healing springs. However, it became a notorious site when Norman G. Baker opened a bogus cancer hospital there, resulting in numerous tragic deaths. Reports of ghostly encounters, especially linked to a stone mason named Michael in Room 218, unveil lingering spirits that frighten guests who feel an unsettling watchfulness.

AIIMS will re-conduct an examination disrupted by a power failure. Candidates affected at the Jaipur centre will take the exam again. This re-examination is scheduled for September 7, 2026. Revised admit cards will be issued shortly through the examination portal. All original terms and conditions remain applicable for the re-examination.

Karnataka will speed up rooftop solar installations on government buildings. The Public Works Department will survey suitable buildings for this initiative. Two models, RESCO and CAPEX, will facilitate project implementation. Government departments will benefit from reduced electricity costs and revenue. This program aims to lower carbon emissions and improve energy sustainability.

Mack Rutherford achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the youngest individual to fly solo around the globe. His incredible journey took him through 52 countries and across 5 continents, all while he skillfully navigated various challenges over a span of six months. Facing harsh weather conditions and making unexpected landings, Rutherford's extraordinary adventure serves as an inspiration for the youth to chase their ambitions.