The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
A jury has ordered Bill Cosby to pay at least 19 million dollars in a civil sex assault case. Donna Motsinger accused Cosby of drugging and assaulting her in 1972. This is the second civil case where Cosby has been found liable for sexual assault. Cosby maintains any encounters were consensual. The jury also found grounds for punitive damages.
Users are experiencing significant difficulties with X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, with widespread issues reported on Downdetector. A majority of users are encountering problems logging into the website, while others are struggling with the app or the login process itself. There is currently no estimated time for a resolution to these ongoing technical glitches.
Emily in Paris Season 6 release date, filming and plot update shows production set for late spring 2026 and a return by late 2026 on Netflix. The story will follow Emilys work life in Paris, her relationship choices, and changes at Agence Grateau after Season 5 events.
Who are ShinyHunters and what is Telus Digital? Reports link Crunchyroll data breach to Telus Digital and hacking group ShinyHunters. Around 100GB data may be exposed including email, IP, and payment details. Sony anime streamer users face risk as breach remains unverified but raises concern about cybersecurity and third party access.
New York has started a new law to protect people who pay with cash. The rule comes during a penny shortage and changes how stores round prices. Some payments still have limits, and businesses may face fines if they break the rules. The change follows growing cashless trends after Covid-19 and earlier rounding practices during Donald Trumps time.
An ex-FBI agent believes the suspect in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance made a isky move by visiting her home days before she was abducted. The family's statement suggests this rial run on January 11th indicates the suspect's commitment. The search for the missing mother has entered its eighth week.
Quote of the day by Keri Russell: Actress Keri Russell highlights how small choices can change lives. Her career began on The Mickey Mouse Club. She gained fame with Felicity and starred in films like Mission Impossible III. Russell received Emmy nominations for The Americans and The Diplomat. She balances her successful acting career with her family life.
Gypsy-Rose Blanchard has faced strong online backlash after appearing in a viral TikTok video with influencer Natalie Reynolds. The pair participated in the We listen and we dont judge trend, but the moment turned controversial when Gypsy-Rose referenced her past criminal case involving the killing of her mother. Her comment shocked viewers and quickly spread across social media platforms.
Will gold price fall to $4,200 or move upwards to $4,800 and silver price rise to $80 or slip to $60? Prices have dropped after global tensions and rate expectations. Market data, analyst insights, and investor strategies now guide future direction.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Russia this year. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed the upcoming visit. This follows President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi last December. The two nations share a strong strategic partnership. High-level exchanges continue to deepen their engagement. This cooperation advances regional and global peace and stability.
Bank of Baroda, said multiple people ET spoke with, charged a higher interest rate by mistake, leading to the deduction of an amount exceeding the scheduled equated monthly instalment (EMI). Alternatively, the bank charged less interest in some cases than it ought to have, its spokesperson said.
In a written response to a query in the Lok Sabha on March 20, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh also said India attended the Board of Peace meeting held at the US Institute of Peace in Washington on February 19 as an observer.
Power Finance Corporation has appointed RBSA Advisors and SBI Capital Markets for its planned merger with REC. This move follows the government's budget announcement to consolidate public sector NBFCs for better scale and efficiency. The boards of both companies have approved the merger plan. The new entity will remain a government company.
Private companies are shying away from four major highway projects totaling 22,000 crore. Concerns over contract terms, especially dispute resolution and tight timelines, are deterring bidders. Developers cite a lack of arbitration provisions and unrealistic project durations as key risks. This situation highlights a collective rejection of India's current BOT model, raising questions about future public funding for infrastructure development.
In an interview with ET, Naval Group executive VP Eric Balufin said India can become a hub for the upgradation and sustenance of submarines in the region, pointing to several countries that operate the Scorpene class.
The National Investigation Agency is actively investigating the Delhi Red Fort bomb blast. Extensive searches were conducted across Jammu and Kashmir. Several locations were raided, and digital devices were seized for forensic analysis. The blast, which occurred last year, tragically claimed 11 lives. Eleven individuals have been arrested so far in connection with the incident.
The report added that foreign exchange reserves remain adequate to provide a cushion against external shocks. Forex reserves were at $709 billion as of March 13, after touching an all-time high of $729 billion in February. The RBI said reserves provide cover for 11.2 months of goods imports and around 95% of the country's outstanding external debt.
The Indian rupee has reached an unprecedented low against the US dollar. While this opens up favorable avenues for exporters, the simultaneous rise in raw material and energy costs is likely to negate these gains. Industries such as textiles and leather might experience slight improvements, yet others will grapple with inflated import bills.
India and the UAE held talks on the West Asia conflict's impact. Discussions covered regional security, economy, and energy. Maritime security, especially in the Strait of Hormuz, was highlighted. Both nations stressed freedom of navigation. The UAE defended its right to retaliate against Iranian attacks. The UAE affirmed its commitment to sovereignty and regional stability.
An innovative proposal is on the table aimed at transforming business operations in India. This bill introduces simplified guidelines for share buybacks and accelerates the merger process for companies. The National Financial Reporting Authority is set to gain expanded powers to enhance oversight. Furthermore, flexibility in corporate social responsibility norms will cater specifically to smaller businesses.
IndiGo has appointed Aloke Singh as its new Chief Strategy Officer. Singh will guide the airline's future plans, including introducing the Airbus A350 aircraft in 2028. This move will allow IndiGo to operate long-haul flights. Singh's appointment follows a period of leadership changes. He brings extensive experience in aviation strategy and operations.
Elvis Presley rose from a poor childhood to become a global music star. He changed rock and roll with his unique voice and stage style. His early songs made him famous, and he later acted in movies. A comeback in the late 1960s revived his career. Even after his death, his music and influence remain strong worldwide.
Oscar-nominated actress Valerie Perrine, celebrated for her roles in Superman and Lenny, has passed away at 82. Her career, marked by bold performances and emotional depth, saw her earn critical acclaim and widespread recognition. Perrine bravely battled Parkinson's disease for 15 years, leaving behind a legacy of iconic characters and an indomitable spirit.
Indian industries are seeking relaxed quality control rules. This move aims to secure vital components from alternative sources like China. Supply chain disruptions due to the West Asia conflict are impacting sectors such as automotive and electronics. The government is considering these requests to ease the current supply squeeze. A decision is expected soon.
Panda Express $5,000 settlement claim 2026: Panda Restaurant Group faces a deadline for a $2.45 million settlement. Affected individuals can claim up to $5,000 for a 2023 data breach. The deadline to opt out of the suit is March 23. Claimants can receive cash payments and credit monitoring. This applies to Panda Express and other brands.
The Burman familys strategic foresight over the past three decades has led to the creation of an impressive portfolio of non-core assets through reinvesting dividends from Dabur. This unique approach not only mirrors Daburs market strength but also reinforces their financial legacy.
The government has requested additional time from the Supreme Court to address fluctuating airfares. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has impacted aviation fuel prices and flight operations. The court is examining the issue of unpredictable ticket prices and additional airline charges. This follows a Public Interest Litigation seeking regulatory guidelines.
Indian horticulture exporters are rerouting shipments to alternative Middle East ports like Khor Fakkan. This move aims to bypass congestion and disruptions at Jebel Ali port in Dubai. The shift is crucial for perishable agricultural exports to West Asia. Despite increased freight costs, this strategy ensures trade continuity and helps overcome recent business losses.
India's strategic oil reserves are currently at 64 percent capacity. This stock can cover approximately five days of the nation's oil needs. The country faces energy vulnerability due to disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz. India imports a significant portion of its crude oil and natural gas from Gulf countries. New reserve facilities are planned but not yet built.
The finance ministry has stated no formal study on GST rate rationalization's inflationary impact has been conducted, though lower rates are expected to benefit consumers. Separately, the Union government is not considering a farm loan waiver, with agricultural credit rising steadily. Meanwhile, 25% of Agniveers are absorbed into the armed forces, with the rest finding civilian job opportunities.
India's medical device sector is facing severe financial strain, prompting an urgent plea to the government for expedited GST refund processing. Delays in refunds from last year's rate reduction, coupled with rising input costs due to the West Asia conflict, have created significant working capital distress.
India's culinary landscape is feeling the pressure as a lack of LPG supplies disrupts the food industry. Establishments like hotels and bustling street vendors are trimming their resources, leading to lower usage of essential ingredients like edible oil and flour. The decline in wheat flour sales poses challenges for the production of staples such as bread and biscuits.
Tragedy struck LaGuardia Airport as Air Canada Express Flight 8646 collided with a fire truck on the runway, claiming the lives of two pilots and injuring dozens. The incident occurred late Sunday night, with surveillance footage showing the dramatic impact. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash, which led to the airport's temporary closure.
The NDA has finalized its seat distribution for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The AIADMK will contest 178 seats, while the BJP will field candidates in 27 constituencies. Other alliance partners have also received their allocations. This agreement follows crucial discussions between alliance leaders. The NDA expressed confidence in securing a victory and forming the government in Tamil Nadu.
Former Kerala health minister KK Shailaja faces a challenging election in Peravoor. The constituency leans towards the Congress. UDF candidate Sunny Joseph, a three-time MLA, holds a strong local connection. Analysts suggest Joseph has an edge. Recent election results indicate a shift in voter sentiment and momentum for the opposition.
A Colombian military C-130 Hercules plane crashed on takeoff in Puerto Leguzamo, carrying dozens of troops. Approximately 57 people have been rescued, but many remain unaccounted for. Defense Minister Pedro Snchez confirmed the accident, while President Gustavo Petro lamented the military's lack of modernization.
The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the Haryana police's handling of a rape investigation involving a three-year-old girl. The court found the probe shocking and insensitive. It also noted concerns about the victim's statement being recorded near the accused. The Gurugram Police Commissioner and Investigating Officer must appear in court on March 25 with the full investigation record.
Assam minister Nandita Garlosa has joined the Congress party. She filed her nomination as a Congress candidate from Haflong. This move comes after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's efforts to retain her in the BJP. The BJP has fielded Rupali Langthasa from the same seat. Meanwhile, the BJP has nominated Kushal Dowari in Sibsagar.
The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the West Bengal government. The court rebuked the state for delaying the Orange Line Metro Project in Kolkata. The state's appeal against a High Court order was dismissed. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for timely completion of the metro project.
An Air Canada plane crashed into a rescue truck at LaGuardia Airport late at night. Two pilots died and many passengers were injured. The airport was closed after the accident. Officials said the plane had already landed when the collision happened. Investigators are now checking what went wrong, including runway communication, as authorities continue their probe into the serious incident.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee begins her Assembly poll campaign in North Bengal on March 24. Trinamool general secretary Abhishek Banerjee starts his campaign in the southern districts. The party aims to counter the BJP's influence in North Bengal. Meanwhile, the BJP is strengthening its grassroots outreach and organizational meetings ahead of key visits.
West Bengal's first supplementary electoral roll is ready for publication. Judicial officers have completed adjudication. The list will be available online and in hard copies. Meanwhile, the model code of conduct is strictly enforced across all assembly constituencies. Authorities have seized cash, liquor, and drugs worth over Rs 181 crore. Unauthorised advertisements and property defacements are being cleared.
TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne warned of very high liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices by summer if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. He stated that this closure would not only lead to elevated energy costs but also negatively impact other economies and supply chains.
Todays Quote of the Day teaches that doing things right the first time is an investment, not a delay. In a world obsessed with speed, John Woodens wisdom encourages a shift towards patience, precision and purpose.
Bridgestone India aims for a 67% CAGR in gross sales over the next five years, driven by strong growth in the domestic aftermarket, particularly the passenger car segment. The company is investing USD 85 million in capacity expansion and focusing on product, network, and customer experience enhancements to sustain its momentum and market leadership.
Apples WWDC 2026 will run online from June 812, with a special in-person event at Apple Park on June 8. This year, Siri is officially powered by Apples new AI engine, Gemini. The conference will feature software updates, AI innovations, developer tools, over 100 video sessions, interactive labs, and one-on-one meetings with Apple engineers. The event kicks off with the Keynote and Platforms State of the Union, streamed globally. Student developers will participate through the Swift Student Chall
The revised framework, scheduled for implementation on or before April 1, 2026, aims to strengthen regulatory frameworks and promote responsible lending practices.

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