The Economic Times

The Reserve Bank of India is introducing new rules for banks. Banks must now refund customers fully if a product or service is mis-sold. They also need to compensate customers for any losses incurred. These guidelines aim to protect customers and ensure fair practices in banking. The central bank is seeking feedback before implementing these changes.

Sikandar Raza is back at the top of the ICC T20I All-Rounder rankings. This follows Zimbabwe's strong start in the T20 World Cup. Raza's performance against Oman secured his number one position. Teammate Brian Bennett also made significant gains in the T20I batter rankings.

The IRS is managing more than $150 billion in back taxes this year. Many taxpayers are turning to the IRS Offer in Compromise to settle tax debt for less than they owe. Approval depends on your Reasonable Collection Potential. The IRS reviews your income, assets, and monthly expenses carefully. About 66% of applications are rejected. All past tax returns must be filed. Form 656 is required. Low-income hardship rules may help stop wage garnishment.

India is set to update its economic data base years regularly. This move aims to reflect current economic shifts. The Consumer Price Index will see its first update in over a decade. New data collection includes online platforms and modern services. This will provide a more accurate picture of spending patterns for better user confidence.

Financial expert Abhishek Walia reveals why many feel career-stuck despite disciplined investing. He proposes a three-layer money model: Stability for emergencies, Progress for long-term goals, and the crucial, often overlooked, Optionality. This third layer, cash buffers for flexibility and bold moves, ensures financial freedom, not just wealth accumulation, empowering future choices.

Taking suo motu cognizance of the coal mine blast in Meghalaya, which killed 30 people, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) issued a notice on the matter and asked the authorities concerned to submit their replies by May 19.

El Paso International Airport handled 3.49 million passengers in the first 11 months of 2025, according to its website. Major U.S. airlines including Southwest, Delta, United and American fly there.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the Budget's support for labour-intensive industries and biopharma. She also mentioned collaboration with states on textile parks and opportunities for startups. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi criticized the India-US trade deal. He warned that India's vast data is a strategic asset that could be compromised in a volatile world.

An anganwadi centre in Kendrapada, Odisha, remains shut for three months. Parents boycotted the facility after a Dalit woman was appointed as helper-cum-cook. They refused to send their children, citing caste reasons. Authorities are attempting to resolve the deadlock. The closure affects around 60 children and pregnant women. Dalit leaders have alleged administrative inaction. District officials are investigating the matter.

Jobs report: Americans face a potential reality check with Wednesday's jobs report. January's employment numbers, along with major revisions to 2025 data, may reveal significantly fewer jobs were created than previously thought. Economists anticipate a modest gain of 68,000 jobs for January. Healthcare is expected to lead this growth. This report is crucial for understanding the labor market's current state.

Celebrate Mahashivratri by exploring Delhi-NCRs most sacred Shiva temples. From the 100-foot statue at Birla Kanan to the ancient Neeli Chhatri Mandir linked to the Pandavas, these shrines offer spiritual solace and rich history. Discover the wish-fulfilling Dudheshwar Nath and the mystical Gufawala cave temple in this divine guide.

U.S. hiring rate fell to 3.3%, near a 13-year low, matching 2020 crisis levels. Payroll growth in 2025 was under 600,000 jobs versus a decade average of 1.9 million. Unemployment holds at 4.4%, while wage growth slows. Yet the broader U.S. economic growth rate has remained positive. GDP expanded at a solid pace through 2025. Hiring stalls despite economic expansion. Job seekers face limited opportunities. This unusual labor trend raises questions for policymakers.

Bengaluru rent: A marketing professional highlighted Koramangala's exorbitant rent, with a 2BHK costing Rs 70,000, questioning the premium despite infrastructural issues like open sewage and potholes. The debate on social media reflects divided opinions on whether the high cost is justified by the neighborhood's popularity and amenities.

A gunman has been detained in Hat Yai, Thailand, after firing shots at Patongprathankiriwat School. All hostages have been freed. Three people sustained injuries during the incident. Gun violence is a recurring issue in Thailand, with a tragic nursery attack in 2022 claiming many young lives.

Meenal Goel, a Chartered Accountant, left a secure, high-paying corporate job for freelancing. She sought professional growth and ownership, trading predictable income for uncertainty. This shift fostered resilience and continuous learning. Netizens discussed self-awareness in career choices and the balance between stability and personal responsibility. The transition represented an identity transformation.

A nationwide strike call by over 10 trade and farmers' unions for a Bharat Bandh on February 12 is expected to cause significant disruptions across Kerala. While essential services like hospitals and pharmacies will remain operational, the strike is likely to halt public transport and banking services statewide. The massive participation of workers has led to widespread questions regarding tomorrow holiday in Kerala for educational institutions, as the Feb 12 strike in Kerala often results in a

Cipla Foundation and IISc are joining forces to create a new Centre for Pulmonary Medicine in Bengaluru. This facility will offer advanced treatment for lung diseases. It aims to improve early diagnosis and research for respiratory illnesses. The center will also train medical professionals and promote community health programs. This partnership will strengthen India's fight against lung diseases.

Smartworks Coworking Spaces has just inked a major deal, securing a substantial 182,300 square feet lease in the bustling area of Andheri East, Mumbai. This impressive expansion elevates their total managed office space in the city to a staggering two million square feet.

As the global marketplace undergoes significant regulatory changes, Indian firms are stepping up their commitment to compliance. The focus is transitioning from passive responses to active management of regulatory challenges. Tata Steel and Jyoti Steel Industries serve as prime examples of how this shift is essential in today's business climate.

Iran's supreme leader's adviser declared the nation's missile capabilities a non-negotiable red line, as indirect talks between Tehran and Washington continue. While Iran is open to discussing nuclear program curbs for sanctions relief, it firmly rejects linking this to its missile program. Israel's Prime Minister is expected to advocate for missile limitations in any potential U.S.-Iran deal.

The Election Commission directs the transfer of senior West Bengal government officials serving in the similar post for more than three years. However, officials posted at the state headquarters will be exempt from the transfer.

Quote of the day: Feynmans reflection stands as a guiding principle for intellectual integrity. It calls for discipline, skepticism and humility, qualities that define not only great scientists but responsible citizens.

A young individual achieved an impressive 35kg weight loss in one year, dropping from 104kg to 69kg through a disciplined diet of 1600-1700 calories and 12-hour intermittent fasting. He incorporated daily 10,000 steps, incline treadmill walks, and varied strength training. Despite career setbacks, his physical transformation became a significant personal victory.

Apple growers in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh fear the proposed India-US trade deal could weaken price protection and trigger a surge in imports.

Britain has secured a free trade agreement with India, a rapidly growing economy. This deal positions the UK ahead of the European Union, which reportedly used Britain's agreement as a benchmark. The pact is expected to boost UK GDP and trade significantly. India will reduce tariffs on a large percentage of UK exports, offering immediate savings.

Indian Railways' Vande Bharat AC chair car fares are much lower than those in China, Japan, and France. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated this in Lok Sabha. Fares in India are around Rs 2.19 per kilometre. This affordability has led to high occupancy on Vande Bharat routes. Ordinary class fares on Indian Railways are also among the lowest globally.

Indian corn and soybean prices dropped Wednesday. This follows a new trade deal allowing duty-free imports of U.S. soyoil and animal feed. Farmers fear cheaper supplies. Farm unions and opposition parties have called for nationwide protests. The agreement has already impacted prices, sparking anger among farmers. The government made the deal without farmer consultation.

Napoleon Bonaparte rose from humble origins to become a dominant military and political force in Europe. He seized power in France, crowned himself Emperor, and waged relentless campaigns that reshaped the continent. Despite his military genius and administrative reforms, his ambition led to widespread conflict and a controversial legacy.

India is bracing for a significant nationwide disruption on Thursday, February 12, 2026, as a joint forum of 10 central trade unions and farmers' organizations have called for a 24-hour Bharat Bandh. The strike is primarily aimed at protesting the four new labour codes and a proposed IndiaUS trade deal that critics argue could undermine workers' rights and harm domestic agriculture. In response, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has defended the new framework, asserting that the right to strik

Action icon Sylvester Stallone, known for his enduring roles, shared his profound view on love, defining it as absolute loyalty. His personal life has been a tapestry of marriages and children, including the tragic loss of his son Sage. Despite marital ups and downs, including a recent reconciliation with Jennifer Flavin, Stallone's emphasis remains on steadfast devotion.

Vande Bharat Full Lyrics: The Union Home Ministry has mandated the singing of all six stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' at schools and government events, restoring its original length. This directive, effective February 6, 2026, sets a 3 minute 10 second duration and outlines specific protocols for its rendition, marking the song's 150th anniversary. Check full lyrics of the national song here.

Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir has started building a mosque in Murshidabad, West Bengal. The structure is modelled on Ayodhya's Babri Masjid and is expected to be completed in two years. Kabir stated the construction will proceed despite opposition. He also announced a march to support the project. The mosque's foundation was laid last year.

The Supreme Court has ordered the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to speed up the implementation of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels. These labels will clearly show sugar, salt, saturated fat, and calorie content on processed foods. The court emphasized that citizens' health is paramount.

A Reuters poll of economists indicates the Federal Reserve will hold interest rates steady through May, with a cut expected in June. Economists also expressed concern about potential erosion of Fed independence under Kevin Warsh, who is seen as likely to set policy too loosely.

Britannia Industries is leveraging e-commerce and quick-commerce channels to boost sales of its indulgence and impulse products like cakes and wafers. The company anticipates significant growth in these segments, aiming for high teen percentages by fiscal 2027. Britannia plans increased investment in its quick-commerce unit to capitalize on India's growing demand for convenience.

What is Bithumb and did crypto exchange really give away $40 billion in assets for free? South Korea crypto exchange Bithumb said system flaws caused an erroneous transfer of 620,000 bitcoins during a promotional event. The exchange retrieved most assets, but regulators and lawmakers raised oversight concerns.

India's complex fertiliser sector is set to add 4 MTPA capacity by fiscal 2029, boosting utilisation to 95% and curbing import dependency. Manufacturers will invest Rs 12,000-13,000 crore, largely funded by accruals, ensuring comfortable credit profiles. Improved backward integration to 60% will stabilize profitability.

Jet Airways, which ceased operations in 2019, has sold three aircraft frames and six engines. The deal with Malta-based Ace Aviation is valued at USD 46 million. This sale is part of the airline's liquidation process. The aircraft frames are from Boeing 777 planes. Jet Airways had a fleet of over 120 aircraft at its peak.

JioStar has appointed Bhaskar Ramesh as Head of Entertainment Sales, Digital. Ramesh joins from Google. He will lead JioStar's push into data-driven advertising. His role focuses on building a modern advertising ecosystem. This will deliver measurable outcomes for brands. He will deepen advertiser partnerships. Ramesh brings strong digital expertise to the business.

Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg is reportedly eyeing a property in Miami's exclusive Indian Creek island.

The merger of Power Finance Corporation and REC Ltd is set to boost funding for India's renewable energy projects. Large and complex projects will find financing more accessible. This consolidation will enable greater underwriting capacity and facilitate debt refinancing at competitive rates. Improved grid connectivity for renewables is also anticipated.

Grenoble prosecutor tienne Manteaux has taken the rare step of publicly naming Jacques Leveugle, a 79-year-old man accused of raping and sexually assaulting 89 minors between 1967 and 2022. The case, which spans multiple countries including India, Morocco, and France, came to light after a relative discovered a 15-volume digital memoir on a USB drive documenting decades of abuse. Beyond the sexual assault charges, Leveugle has reportedly confessed to killing his terminally ill mother and his 92-

America sees India as a key partner for stronger economic ties. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer highlighted India's role in diversifying global supply chains. American firms view India as a viable manufacturing alternative. This strategic shift aims for more resilient and secure economic models. India's growing industrial capacity makes it a crucial 'waystation' in this process.

United States Energy Secretary Chris Wright is in Venezuela this week. This marks a significant visit focused on the nation's oil industry. The U.S. recently issued a license for oil and gas exploration. Wright will meet with Venezuelan officials and company executives. The trip aims to assess rebuilding the country's energy sector. This is part of a larger U.S.

Samsung's next Galaxy Unpacked event is set for February 25 in San Francisco. The company will unveil its new Galaxy S series, focusing on deeply integrated AI. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is anticipated to lead the launch.

India is seeking to diversify its oil sources. State-owned refiners have been asked to consider buying more crude from the United States and Venezuela. This comes after a trade deal that reportedly includes a pledge to stop importing Russian oil. Refiners are prioritising US grades from the spot market. Venezuelan crude will be sourced through private talks.

Swiss bank UBS has opened a new Global Capability Centre in Hyderabad. The company plans to hire nearly 3,000 professionals over the next two years. This expansion highlights Hyderabad's growing importance as a global hub for financial technology and operations. The new facility signifies UBS's long-term commitment to India and its confidence in the city's talent pool and infrastructure.

Mahindra & Mahindra is boosting production for its sports utility and electric vehicles. This expansion aims to meet growing customer demand. The company expects to increase monthly output by at least 3,000 units for both combustion engine and electric SUVs. This move follows a significant quarterly profit increase. The automaker is addressing production bottlenecks to achieve this growth.