The Economic Times News

India and New Zealand have signed a new trade agreement. This pact will create jobs and boost investment across India. It opens new opportunities for small businesses, students, women, farmers, and youth. New Zealand offers zero-duty access to Indian exports. India secures improved market access for its services. This agreement marks a significant step in India's trade diplomacy.

Cipla has launched a new orally inhaled insulin powder for diabetes patients in India. This needle-free alternative to injections offers a convenient option for many adults living with diabetes. The insulin is delivered via an inhaler device using single-use cartridges. This innovation simplifies insulin delivery and addresses challenges faced by patients with daily injections.

India's real estate sector achieved a record $10.4 billion in institutional investments in 2025, driven by strong domestic capital and foreign investor confidence. REITs and InvITs led domestic deployment, while the office sector dominated institutional investments, with a growing interest in emerging asset classes and prime core properties.

Indian medicines may become more affordable as China's active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) prices have dropped significantly, by 35-40%. This reduction in manufacturing costs for generic drug makers is expected to translate into lower medicine prices for consumers. Experts anticipate further price declines in the coming months.

Adani Group is consolidating its cement assets, merging ACC Ltd and Orient Cement into Ambuja Cements to create a single pan-India entity. This strategic move aims to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen the balance sheet, and boost profitability. The merger, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to unlock significant synergies and drive long-term shareholder value.

IndiGo's operation of five leased planes from Turkey will end in March 2026. The aviation regulator DGCA has confirmed no further extensions will be granted. This decision comes as IndiGo awaits delivery of its long-range aircraft. The airline currently operates several foreign aircraft on lease to serve passengers amid global aviation challenges.

401(k) retirement mistake: Retirees must be cautious with 401(k) decisions. Taking a distribution instead of rolling over can lead to unexpected taxes. Mistakes with IRA contributions can incur penalties. Proper beneficiary designations are crucial for estate planning, bypassing probate. Experts advise seeking professional guidance to avoid financial pitfalls and ensure smooth asset transfer.

Even though the U.S. Mint has stopped producing new pennies, experts state that Americans should not rush to dispose of the coins they already have. Retailers are experiencing penny shortages, resulting in some businesses to round cash totals or run promotions to get loose change. Financial studies indicate that households often underestimate the value of their coin jars, with several holding significant amounts in dismissed change.

Middle-class retirees rely on Social Security for extra income, but it may not be enough alone. Benefits depend on your age when you start claiming and your total income. Planning, delaying benefits, and adding savings or investments like real estate or gold can help secure a comfortable retirement and cover unexpected expenses.

In November, India's core sector demonstrated resilience with a 1.8 percent increase in output. The remarkable rise is largely attributed to robust gains in the steel and cement industries, driven by an ambitious agenda for infrastructure enhancement in both roadways and housing projects.

Dollywood has unexpectedly halted operations of its historic Dollywood Express steam train, leaving fans in the dark about its return. The beloved heritage railway, a park staple since 1961, is undergoing unscheduled maintenance. While the park assures visitors other attractions remain open, no reopening date has been provided for the iconic train.

Indian companies are increasingly using artificial intelligence tools to manage tax compliance. These AI solutions help detect evasion and respond to tax notices. Leading tax firms are launching generative AI platforms for businesses of all sizes. These tools offer speed and accuracy in identifying risks. They also assist in responding to tax notices and preventing litigation.

Of the four public sector general insurers, only listed New India Assurance is profitable while National Insurance, United India Insurance and Oriental Insurance remain loss-making despite a marginal turnaround.

India needs private investment for its nuclear power goals. The proposed SHANTI Bill, 2025, aims to attract this. It clarifies liability and safety rules, aligning with international standards. This move is crucial for meeting energy demands and achieving net-zero targets. Public protection remains a priority under the new framework.

Americans could miss up to $25,000 in tax-free tips and overtime deductions under new IRS rules. Only voluntary tips and the premium portion of overtime qualify. For 2025 filings, workers must track pay stubs and daily logs themselves. Married couples could lose $25,000, singles $12,500. Start saving records now to maximize deductions and avoid leaving money on the table.

Donald Trump has caused new tension by naming a special envoy for Greenland. The move has upset Denmark and raised strong reactions in Greenland. Trump says the island is important for US security and resources. Greenlands leaders say the people will decide their own future, not outside countries.

Uber stock: Uber is set to test Baidu's Apollo Go robotaxis in London starting in the first half of next year, a move that positions the ride-hailing giant at the forefront of autonomous vehicle integration. This partnership follows a similar initiative by rival Lyft, which also plans to test robotaxis in the city.

Political sparring intensifies with a jibe at Akhilesh Yadav, while a former Trinamool leader criticizes Mamata Banerjee. International news includes NASA's diamond-planet discovery and a former child star's homelessness. Sports headlines feature Usman Khawaja's family facing abuse, and business news highlights soaring gold prices and Thailand's popularity as an Indian holiday spot.

The Odyssey movie trailer major revelations show Matt Damon as Odysseus returning after the Trojan War. The trailer confirms key characters, plot points, cast members, filming details, IMAX technology use, and global release dates for The Odyssey movie in 2026.

Scientists studying the life of Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to 117, found that her longevity was shaped by simple, consistent habits rather than extreme health trends. Her long-term consumption of plain yogurt as part of a Mediterranean-style diet stood out during research, particularly for its role in supporting gut health. Combined with an active lifestyle, strong social connections, and avoidance of harmful habits, her diet helped maintain beneficial gut bacteria linked to reduced inflamm

India and New Zealand have finalized a free trade agreement. New Zealand exports will gain duty-free access to India. Key items like sheep meat and wool will become cheaper. Agricultural products such as apples and kiwifruit will see duty reductions with specific limits. This pact aims to boost trade and manufacturing in India. Implementation is expected in 7-8 months.

Chartered accountant CA Nitin Kaushik has outlined eight practical money rules to help investors safeguard their finances during volatile market phases. Emphasizing discipline, patience, and research, his guidance focuses on avoiding leverage, controlling emotions, understanding trends, and maintaining a clear personal balance sheet.

Delhi government is set to launch DARPAN 2.0, an advanced performance-monitoring dashboard developed by NIC. This real-time, analytics-driven platform will consolidate departmental data, enabling faster, evidence-based decision-making and improved service delivery. The initiative aims to enhance accountability and transparency in governance.

Cairn Oil & Gas has achieved a significant engineering feat by installing India's first Sub-Sea Template (SST) on the West Coast. This operation, conducted in the Ambe offshore block using a jack-up rig, marks a crucial step in developing marginal offshore discoveries and enhancing domestic oil and gas production.

An unexpected altercation at Delhi's Terminal 1 has led to an FIR against an Air India Express pilot who was off-duty. A passenger reported that he was physically attacked after voicing concerns about airline staff cutting the security line. The airline has taken immediate action by sidelining the pilot during a thorough investigation.

Central Railway has launched 76 special trains for Christmas and New Year festivities to accommodate increased passenger demand. Additionally, a rationalisation of passenger fares will take effect from December 26, with minimal increases for most ordinary and suburban travellers to balance operational costs.

A Reddit post has drawn attention after an employee shared how they were abruptly fired from a family-run company despite years of solid performance, only to later learn that the business collapsed financially under the same leadership. The former employee described struggling initially but eventually finding a better role elsewhere, while watching the once-stable company run out of money and sell off its remaining assets.

Social Security payments are being sent this week to some retirees. People with certain birthdays will get paid on December 24. Bigger Social Security checks are coming next year because of a cost-of-living increase. The SSA has also shared future payment dates so beneficiaries know when to expect their money.

Popular singer Chris Rea has passed away. He died peacefully in hospital surrounded by his family. Rea was known for his hit songs like Driving Home For Christmas and The Road To Hell. He had battled health issues in recent years. His family has confirmed the sad news. Rea's music touched millions worldwide.

Federal holidays list 2026: Federal holidays in 2026 bring clarity and new Christmas rules. OPM confirms eleven federal holidays with several long weekends. Independence Day shifts to Friday, July 3. Trumps Christmas Eve and Dec. 26 law complicates scheduling. Every other federal holiday stays on a weekday. That creates predictable schedules. Long weekends are limited. Check which workers benefit most, and how employers handle observed holiday rules.

New Year Horoscope 2026: Astrologers note that the first month of the year urges people to step back from inflexible resolutions and focus instead on setting purposeful intentions, as Januarys astrology is shaped by significant planetary movements.

Russia on Monday expressed full support for Venezuela as the South American country confronts a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers by US forces deployed in the Caribbean, the two governments said. US President Donald Trump on December 16 announced a blockade of sanctioned oil vessels sailing to and from Venezuela.

Ambuja Cements, part of the Adani Group, has approved merging ACC Ltd and Orient Cement Ltd into a single entity. This consolidation aims to create a nationwide cement platform with enhanced operational efficiencies and financial synergies.

Paytm Arab Payments has approved selling a 49 percent stake to Abbar Global Opportunities Holdings Limited. This deal is valued at approximately Rs 19 crore. Abbar Global is a special purpose vehicle owned by Mohamed Ali Rashed Alabbar. This move is part of Paytm's strategy to expand its technology-led merchant payments and financial services.

Christmas Eve 2025 store hours: Christmas Eve 2025 store hours are detailed for major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco, with many offering adjusted closing times. Grocery stores such as Aldi and Kroger also have specific hours, and pharmacy services at CVS and Walgreens will largely remain operational, though some may have reduced schedules.

PC prices 2026: A global memory shortage is now affecting the PC market. Experts predict PC sales could fall significantly in 2026. Prices for computers are expected to rise due to increased memory costs. Some companies are adjusting sales strategies to cope with the ongoing RAM shortages. Demand from AI data centers is driving this supply crunch.

Park Medi World is acquiring KP Institute of Medical Sciences for Rs 245 crore. This all-cash deal will add 360 beds to Park Medi World's network. The acquisition aims to strengthen the hospital chain's presence in North India. Integration is expected to improve clinical programs and efficiency. The company anticipates significant value addition soon after the transaction is complete.

Airport operators are unconcerned about airline market dominance. Jeet Adani of Adani Group highlighted that negotiating power is key. The Indian aviation sector faces a duopoly with IndiGo and Air India Group controlling over 90 percent of the domestic market. Adani emphasised equal negotiating power between airlines and airports.

Gold and silver prices rally sharply on December 22 as gold breaks above $4,400 again. Silver trades near $69, posting one of its strongest sessions of 2025. Fed rate cut expectations fuel the move. Debt monetization fears grow. Geopolitical tensions boost safe-haven demand. Industrial silver shortages intensify. Some forecasts suggest gold could approach or exceed $5,000 per ounce by late 2026. For silver, expectations are also strong but more varied. Some market watchers project silver moving

Paramount is pushing harder to buy Warner Bros. Discovery with help from Larry Ellison. He is personally backing the deal to prove the money is real. The offer has caused tension with the WBD board, which prefers Netflix. Shareholders are now closely watching how this major media takeover fight unfolds.

This Christmas Eve stands out for its emphasis on emotional authenticity. Rather than grand gestures, small moments, shared meals, meaningful conversations, and quiet togetherness, carry lasting impact.

The Union Public Service Commission has released the final results for the Combined Medical Services Examination 2025. Medical graduates can now download their result PDFs. The examination was held on July 20, 2025, with personality tests conducted from October to December 2025. The UPSC has recommended candidates for various central government medical posts.