The Economic Times

Delhi-based finance analyst Surbhi Chaudhary says a Rs 1 lakh monthly salary can provide a comfortable life in a Tier 2 or 3 city, allowing for a good car, dining out, travel, family support and investments. However, social media can make people feel inadequate by showcasing higher salaries, expensive homes and frequent travel. She says people often compare everyday life with others best moments and forget what enough feels like.

Several new OTT releases are available for streaming starting October 2 across various platforms. Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is a Malayalam romantic comedy with Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju in lead roles. Pooja Meri Jaan is a crime drama featuring Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi that explores complex relationships. Additionally, Netflix has released the romantic comedy series #Love and Tyler Perrys Doing Life.

Brazil's national football team has arrived in Kolkata for an upcoming friendly match against India. The match is scheduled to take place at Salt Lake Stadium on October 3, marking a significant event in Indian football history. Advanced security arrangements are being implemented to prevent issues such as ticket black marketing. The West Bengal government is also upgrading infrastructure, aiming for a World Cup-like experience.

Canada and India are targeting an increase in bilateral trade, aspiring to reach USD 70 billion in five years. Ongoing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement are expected to conclude soon. Recently, the fifth round of negotiations is planned to take place in Ottawa on October 5. Both nations have emphasized the importance of collaboration in energy and critical minerals for economic growth.

India will make facial recognition mandatory for airline and airport employees and expedite full-body scanner deployment at eight major airports as part of tighter aviation security measures. BCAS said airport entry passes will be digitally controlled, while civil aviation officials said scanners have reached three airports and will soon be installed at five more.

Eli Lilly intends to innovate in the weight-loss market, launching up to four new products in the coming years. The success of Mounjaro and Zepbound significantly boosted the company's sales and market value. Eli Lilly sees potential in India's biotech sector, despite challenges in the research funding environment. The company is open to partnerships with Indian biotechnology firms for future collaborations.

Nike stock after NKE earnings: Nike stock is down after the company reported a quarterly revenue miss and forecast a high-single-digit revenue decline for fiscal 2027. Nike also announced layoffs as part of a restructuring plan expected to generate about $2.5 billion in savings through fiscal 2031.

A recent AP-NORC poll shows Donald Trump's approval rating has plummeted to 31%, reflecting increasing public dissatisfaction. With midterm elections on the horizon, voters voiced their worries about the economy and rising prices, emphasizing 17% approval for Trump's management of cost of living. In response, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle defended Trumps record by pointing out his significant policy achievements that could influence the forthcoming elections in November 2026.

The insurance industry is currently discussing a tiered expense structure to replace uniform expense limits set by regulators. Smaller insurers are advocating for higher allowable expenses on initial premium bases to facilitate growth. These discussions follow the regulator's proposal to limit the expenses of management for life and general insurers. Industry executives believe a tiered structure can promote competition among insurers of different sizes.

Vedanta Copper announced plans to invest $2.3 billion over three to four years to increase its output. The company aims to produce 500,000 tonnes of copper in India and 500,000 tonnes in Saudi Arabia. Officials are in advanced discussions to potentially restart the Tuticorin smelter, which has been inactive since 2018. If approved, they will invest $250 million to refurbish and restart this facility to enhance operations.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the Trump administration is working with India to finalise a bilateral trade deal, but an agreement is not imminent. Greer said he had a very constructive conversation with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal at the G20 trade ministers meeting and that officials remain engaged.

Petrol and diesel sales increased in September by 7.2% and 4.9% year-on-year, respectively. The rise in petrol consumption was supported by higher vehicle sales during the month. Meanwhile, diesel demand was boosted due to below-normal monsoon rainfall and increased economic activity. Aviation turbine fuel sales experienced flat growth, indicating subdued air traffic. LPG consumption fell by 9% as disruptions from the war impacted supplies.

The National Company Law Tribunal rejected Uniton Infras plea seeking insolvency proceedings against Shapoorji Pallonji & Co over an alleged Rs 4.31 crore default linked to road resurfacing work in Nellore. The tribunal said one invoice fell under the Covid-era ban on bankruptcy filings, while the remaining claim was below the Rs 1 crore threshold.

Oil secretary Neeraj Mittal stated that restricting fuel sales at pumps is unacceptable during a press conference. He emphasized that no companies are permitted to cap fuel sales. Reports indicate that Nayara Energy and Reliance Industries-BP joint venture have limited diesel sales. The increase in international diesel prices has affected the domestic supply. Mittal reiterated that the government's stance on this issue remains unchanged.

Eli Lilly has experienced significant growth, reaching a market capitalization over $1 trillion. The company aims to maintain its leadership in anti-obesity drugs through ongoing innovation and development. With successful trials for drugs like retatrutide and Foundayo, Lilly is expanding its product offerings. The company recognizes the importance of India as a growing market for healthcare investments and partnerships.

Asset reconstruction companies have called for improved government intervention to accelerate debt recovery through DRTs. They proposed changes including automatic lapse of interim stays after two months and better notification processes for creditors. Additionally, they requested timely filling of DRT vacancies and enhanced electronic services for litigation. The Sarfaesi Act has been highlighted as an essential tool for banks in asset recovery.

Slurrp Farm is currently exploring new fundraising opportunities as existing investors consider exiting their holdings. The company aims to attract potential investors while discussing the details of the proposed deal. Founded by Meghana Narayan and Shauravi Malik, Slurrp Farm has leveraged supergrains in their products. Recently, the brand was valued at 827 crore during a Series C5 funding round. Investor interest continues to rise in the healthy snacking market.

India's economy is experiencing significant growth, highlighted by a 14.7% increase in goods and services tax collections in September. Car sales surged by 21% year-on-year, indicating strong consumer demand during the festive season. Manufacturing activity is robust, contributing to a rise in the HSBC Purchasing Managers Index to a seven-month high.

Indias factory workforce crossed 20 million in 2024-25, driven by gains in West Bengal, Telangana, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh and sectors such as food products and electrical equipment. Industrial GVA rose 9.6% to Rs 26.9 lakh crore, while average earnings increased to Rs 3.8 lakh. Productivity edged up to Rs 11 lakh per worker.

Weekend demand at city hotels in India is improving, driven by rising staycations and increased domestic travel. Occupancy levels have significantly increased in 2026, with Mumbai and New Delhi recording substantial gains. Major hotel chains like Radisson and Ibis report favorable trends in occupancy rates and average daily rates. This shift in consumer behavior marks a notable change in the hospitality landscape post-Covid-19.

The government is seeking to channel more pension savings into Indias long-term infrastructure needs, with PFRDA chairman S Ramann saying the regulator is exploring additional avenues, including direct exposure to large projects. CEA V Anantha Nageswaran called pension savings patient, long-duration capital suited to financing long-lived infrastructure assets.

Vedanta Oil and Gas is increasing investment in Rajasthan to enhance crude output from existing wells. The company aims to invest approximately $200 million in 2026-27 across several fields in the region. Further, Vedanta plans to develop a new hub for gas growth in the northeast region. Enhanced-recovery techniques are being employed to increase production efficiency from their wells.

The Reserve Bank of India has asked banks to identify systemic, process and operational gaps behind recurring customer complaints and conduct root-cause analysis to reduce their recurrence. The regulator also called for stronger capacity building and grievance handling. More than 1.33 million complaints were received under the ombudsman scheme in FY25.

India's electric vehicle market recorded substantial growth in September, with sales reaching 34,894 units. This represents a 95% increase compared to last year's figures. Tata Motors maintained its market leadership with a 42.2% share, while Mahindra followed with 22.2%. Interestingly, newer entrants like VinFast and Maruti Suzuki captured significant market shares within a short span.

The finance ministry expects Indias real GDP to grow 7.3% in Q2 FY27, above the RBIs 6.4% forecast, but warned that global uncertainties could weigh on investment. US trade relations, tariff pressures, crude prices and the lack of an India angle in global AI developments are clouding investor interest.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held a productive discussion with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on early conclusion of a mutually beneficial interim trade agreement between India and the US. The meeting came alongside PM Narendra Modis conversation with President Donald Trump and Goyals participation in the G20 trade ministers meeting.

Indias power consumption rose 11.3% year-on-year to 162 billion units in September, driven by cooling and irrigation demand amid a deficit monsoon. Peak power demand met touched a record 269 GW. NTPC generation rose 12.5%, while Coal India increased production 9.2% and total fuel supplies 12.5%.

Indias manufacturing activity accelerated to a seven-month high in September, with the HSBC PMI rising to 55.1 from 52.8 in August as stronger domestic and export demand lifted new orders and output. Factory production posted its sharpest expansion in four months, while hiring resumed and business sentiment improved.

Oil prices experienced a 2% rise as China halted oil product exports to regions outside Hong Kong and Macau. This suspension is likely to tighten fuel markets which are already dealing with supply shortages globally. Investors are reacting to ongoing diplomatic efforts concerning the US-Israeli situation with Iran. The market response was volatile, reflecting the uncertainty caused by these developments.

Emirates flight EK31, an Airbus A380 flying from Dubai to London Heathrow, was diverted to Frankfurt after a passenger suffered a medical emergency on board. The aircraft landed safely and the passenger was taken for further medical care. The diversion came just days after a separate flydubai flight to Israel was forced to make an emergency landing after its co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain.

Auto makers in India reported impressive sales growth, indicating strong demand heading into the festive season. A total of approximately 460,000 vehicles were dispatched in September, marking a 21% increase compared to last year. Maruti Suzuki led the market with a 37% increase in sales, underscoring consumer enthusiasm.

Mumbai chef Guntas Sethi has introduced a recipe for a high-protein chocolate mousse that is guilt-free. The mousse is made using ripe bananas, raw cacao powder, nut butter, and milk. This recipe has been endorsed by celebrity nutritionist Luke Coutinho for its healthy ingredients. Sethis mousse contains 230 calories with significant protein and healthy fats. The dish is easy to prepare and can be chilled for better texture.

Rick Ross has been arrested in Miami Beach following allegations made by a woman regarding domestic violence. The woman claims he struck her and restricted her breathing during an altercation at his residence. Ross has turned himself into the police and faces charges of battery by strangulation and misdemeanor battery. His attorney denies the allegations and emphasizes Ross's innocence as the legal proceedings unfold.

President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is prepared to use its entire arsenal if Kaliningrad is endangered. Speaking at the Valdai Forum in Moscow, he emphasized that aggression would provoke a response. Putin clarified that Russia does not intend to initiate attacks against anyone. The comments reflect ongoing tensions regarding the Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad.

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, was briefly detained by Mumbai Police on Marine Drive. This occurred a day before a planned protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The CJP's initial protest at Shivaji Park was denied permission due to various concerns. Following this denial, Dipke announced a mass voluntary arrest campaign to continue their efforts.

Eventions IPO aims to strengthen financial stability, support working capital, and pay off debt. Funds from the IPO will also help invest in a subsidiary and address general corporate purposes. Eventions reported growth in total income and profit after tax over the past three years.

An unexpected art discovery has reshaped North Carolina artist Beth Feeback's fortunes. When purchasing a painting at Goodwill, she had no idea it was Ilya Bolotowsky's famed 'Vertical Diamond.' The artwork was later auctioned at Sothebys for an impressive sum exceeding $27,000. With her windfall, Feeback intends to fund renovations and tackle her debts, reminding us that invaluable art often lurks in the most unassuming places.

The Calcutta High Court has adjourned the case regarding prayers at Bankra Mosque until October 7. The mosque predates the airport, which started operations in 1924, and had allowed access for many years. Access to the mosque was stopped on July 11, raising concerns for local worshippers. The Airports Authority of India noted recent security breaches around the area of the mosque.

NASA is planning three investigations on the Moon to gather essential information for a future lunar outpost. These investigations will monitor environmental conditions, explore for underground lava tubes, and search for lunar ice resources. The data collected will inform the design and safety of structures supporting human activities on the Moon. NASA aims to leverage commercial services for delivering scientific payloads to the lunar surface.

Eloise has spent much of the series unsure about marriage. She struggles with the expectations placed on young women in Regency society. The idea of formal courtship has never appealed to her. For Eloise, freedom has often seemed far more exciting than finding a husband.

A recent survey reveals that a rising number of Americans are unhappy with how Trump is managing the economy and increasing prices. Citizens attribute the high cost of living to his policies, creating worries about affording essential items. Approval ratings for Trump's economic strategies have plummeted, leading to disappointment even among Republicans.

In a startling incident in the South Pacific, the yacht named Tai Tam was collided with by a sperm whale, which caused extensive damage. The strike led to significant flooding and failure of the steering system. After hours of battling to keep the yacht afloat, the crew had to evacuate to a life raft.