The Economic Times

USA vs Belgium: Charles De Ketelaere scored twice and assisted once as Belgium defeated the United States 4-1. The Red Devils advanced to the quarterfinals after a convincing performance against the co-hosts. Belgium took a 2-1 halftime lead and extended it with a second-half goal. The U.S. goalkeeper's misplay led to Belgium's third goal, which De Ketelaere assisted. Romelu Lukaku added a fourth goal for Belgium in stoppage time.

Several Indian states are expected to experience intense rainfall and thunderstorms over the coming days. The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple weather alerts for regions including Maharashtra and Odisha. Heavy showers and gusty winds are forecast across Jharkhand for the next four days. Himachal Pradesh faces an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in key districts.

The United States voiced concern over China's recent nuclear-capable missile test launch. Washington urged Beijing to engage in meaningful arms control discussions promptly. China stated the test launch was a routine annual naval training exercise. The PLA Navy mentioned notifying relevant countries about the strategic missile test. The United States remains steadfast in its defense commitments to allies.

Severe thunderstorms and high winds have killed at least eight people in China's Hubei Province. Forecasters are warning of more torrential rain and tornadoes across several other regions. Extremely heavy rainfall is expected in Guangxi, Jiangsu, and Shandong provinces. These weather events threaten agricultural crops and raise economic loss concerns. China is also monitoring Super Typhoon Bavi approaching Taiwan.

A significant fire erupted at a private company in Noida's Sector 88 early Tuesday morning. Firefighters responded promptly and successfully brought the extensive blaze under control. The fire engulfed both the ground and first floors of the closed company premises. No injuries or fatalities were reported due to the incident. Officials suspect a short circuit in an electrical panel caused the fire.

Mumbai faces an Orange Alert for heavy rain and gusty winds on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. Schools and colleges across the city will remain closed as a precautionary measure for student safety. Authorities urge citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay informed through official channels. Heavy showers previously lashed the city, causing disruptions to train services and affecting thousands.

South cinema is bringing an exciting mix of fresh OTT releases in the second week of July. From the murder mystery Parmila & Co and Ram Charan's sports drama Peddi to the football documentary Land of Football and action drama Balti, viewers can stream a variety of movies and shows across Netflix, ZEE5, Prime Video, JioHotstar and SonyLIV. Read on to know when and where to watch them online.

Venezuela's twin earthquakes have claimed 3,535 lives and left thousands homeless. Nearly 18,000 people remain without shelter more than a week after the disaster. Official figures show 16,740 individuals sustained injuries from the powerful quakes. The government defends its response amid criticism of delays and inadequacy. United Nations aid operations continue to ramp up in affected areas.

Spain secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Portugal in the ninety-first minute. Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal, breaking through a resilient Portuguese defense. This win propelled the Spanish team into the tournament's quarter-final stage. The defeat marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance. Spain now awaits the winner of the United States versus Belgium match.

Reports from Axios indicate that Iran has fired missiles at commercial ships navigating the crucial Strait of Hormuz. This aggressive action raises significant concerns about regional stability and international shipping routes, potentially escalating tensions in an already volatile area. The incident demands immediate attention and careful monitoring by global powers.

Cristiano Ronaldo once credited his difficult childhood experiences for his immense mental strength. He learned independence and responsibility from a very young age. These early struggles shaped his ability to manage immense pressure. Meanwhile, on Monday night, Cristiano Ronaldo's FIFA World Cup journey came to an emotional end after Portugal's defeat to Spain. Read on!

US President Trump stated the United States will reach a deal or finish the job with Iran. Iran's Supreme National Security Council called Trump's threat delusional and spoke of respect. Indirect talks ended last week without public signs of progress toward peace. A 60-day ceasefire was intended to create space for diplomacy and revive talks. Iranians appeared defiant and united following the Supreme Leader's funeral.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the sport's disciplinary process amid international criticism. He stated FIFA's judicial bodies operate independently and autonomously from external influences. President Donald Trump praised FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's World Cup red card ban. European football body UEFA expressed disbelief and called the decision unprecedented and unjustifiable. Critics argue FIFA's actions undermine confidence in its own disciplinary system.

Vehicle retail sales reached a record high in June, showing a significant year-on-year increase. This robust growth was supported by strong demand across various vehicle segments. Improved supplies and easing crude oil prices are expected to sustain this positive momentum. Two-wheeler sales saw a notable rise, with electric models gaining significant market share. Rural markets demonstrated strong traction in commercial vehicle sales, indicating broad economic recovery.

Private banks saw stronger deposit growth than public sector lenders in the June quarter. Public sector banks, however, achieved faster credit expansion during the same period. This divergence raises concerns about funding sustainability for state-run institutions. Private banks have steadily gained market share in deposits over a decade. Credit growth between the two bank types showed convergence in the recent quarter.

Shinzo Abe quote today: Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stressed humility when facing history. He believed politicians should defer to historians and experts on debated matters. Abe's perspective highlights the importance of seeking knowledge from those with specialized understanding.

Quote of the Day by Mother Teresa highlights that emotional isolation can be more painful than material poverty. Through her lifelong service to the poor, Mother Teresa stressed that love, compassion and human connection are essential to a meaningful life. Her timeless message continues to resonate as loneliness and mental well-being become growing concerns across the world.

The Economic Times 40 under Forty competition is returning for its twelfth edition. A distinguished eleven-member jury will convene to select the honorees. This esteemed panel is led by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw of Biocon Ltd. They will evaluate candidates from a large pool of over six hundred nominations. The jury will choose forty individuals for this prestigious recognition.

Multinational companies are increasingly hiring India-based leaders for global responsibilities. India's growing strategic importance and deep leadership pool drive this significant trend. Global capability centers are evolving into innovation hubs, expanding leadership mandates. Executives now combine global, regional, and local responsibilities with substantial compensation packages. Technology, financial services, and healthcare sectors are seeing this leadership shift.

China has reduced fuel prices, mirroring pre-war levels as crude oil costs decline. Indian private retailer Nayara Energy also cut its fuel rates recently. State-run firms have not yet followed suit after substantial first-quarter losses. These companies incurred nearly seventy-five thousand crore rupees in losses. This situation arose due to delayed fuel price adjustments by the government.

In a communication to the Karnataka government, the union heavy industries ministry said a tender for electric buses under the PM E-DRIVE scheme concluded last year but letters of award for the provisioned buses are yet to be issued by the state.

The phrase 'break the ice' means easing social discomfort and starting conversations. This expression originated from ships clearing frozen waterways for safe passage. Today, it symbolizes removing emotional barriers between unfamiliar individuals. Various social situations benefit from this technique to foster comfort. Knowing how to 'break the ice' remains an important social skill.

Psychology says people who like adventure activities and are always ready to feel the thrill aren't always careless or irresponsible. Research suggests many thrill seekers enjoy challenging experiences because they seek new sensations, personal growth, learning, and excitement. Their behavior is often linked to personality traits, brain responses, and motivation. Understanding this pattern helps explain why some people enjoy adventure sports, travel, and new experiences while others prefer routi

India's competition regulator is taking a stand by appealing to the Supreme Court over a tribunals recent decision that invalidated a 300-crore penalty against Grasim Industries. This penalty related to accusations of monopolistic behavior in the viscose staple fibre market. The tribunal mandated that Grasim be given an opportunity for defense, prompting the regulator to aim for the restoration of its previous decision against the company.

The power ministry has introduced a new credit trading system aimed at Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency standards. Under this initiative, manufacturers can trade excess compliance credits and purchase them from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. The framework includes credit and debit accounting, allowing manufacturers who surpass targets to earn credits, while those who don't accumulate debits.

Ultra Maritime will become a part of Lockheed's rotary and mission systems, which reported revenue of $17.3 billion in 2025 and employs 35,000 people worldwide. Sustained conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and U.S. President Donald Trump's $1.5 trillion defense budget request for 2027 are driving up demand for weapons and military technology, pushing defense contractors to expand their capabilities.

NTPC plans to develop nuclear power capacity using pressurised water reactor technology. Global consultants are invited to prepare tender documents and evaluate bids. This initiative follows the promulgation of the SHANTI Act, allowing private sector participation. NTPC aims to build thirty gigawatts of nuclear capacity on its own. The company is also exploring tie-ups with Rosatom and EDF for PWR projects.

The Delhi High Court has sought the government's response regarding a petition filed by Delhi Gymkhana Club members. The club and its staff association are challenging a show-cause notice for eviction from its Lutyens' Delhi premises. The court issued a notice to the central government and posted the matter for further hearing on July 28.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd is investing significantly to expand its retail offerings. The company aims to increase its market share by 2030. BPCL is expanding its electric vehicle charging network across major highways. It is also scaling up its Drive Fresh and Be Cafe initiatives. This strategy seeks to make travel more convenient for customers.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation in India is inviting public contributions concerning new regulations aimed at curbing the sale of various medications under similar brand names, which can mislead both patients and pharmacists about their contents. As part of this initiative, the drug regulator has released a notice for stakeholder observations, with a deadline for comments set for July 17 to ensure improved safety and trust among patients.

Fresh violence erupted in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Sunday. Armed miscreants opened fire at Thingkhongjang village, injuring two people. A minor was among those injured and both were sent for specialized treatment. Civilian houses were deliberately set on fire during the attack. The district administration had assured villagers of their safety.

French proverb, You should never say, Fountain, I will never drink your water! highlights the importance of humility, open-mindedness, and preparing for life's uncertainties. The saying reflects the idea that circumstances can change unexpectedly, making today's rejected place, or opportunity essential tomorrow. It suggests that people should avoid making absolute promises or burning bridges because the future is unpredictable. Instead, the proverb encourages flexibility, respect, and the wisdom

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar faces intense pressure for his removal. His grandson, Muhammad Raza Dar, was arrested for abduction and rape charges. Two foreign nationals were allegedly gang-raped in Lahore after being brought to Pakistan. Politicians are demanding Dar's immediate resignation due to the serious allegations. The Deputy Prime Minister has not yet issued a public statement.

The CBI conducted searches at twenty-six locations across eleven states and Union Territories. These searches are connected to four criminal cases involving alleged misappropriation of Border Roads Organisation funds. The investigations focus on irregularities in casual labour deployment and payments for fake labourers. These alleged irregularities occurred in projects Vijayak and Yojak in Ladakh.

Terming this as our biggest achievement, the union minister of cooperation noted that when the ministry was established, the main concern raised by critics was that cooperation was a state subject and the union government would use the ministry to interfere in the work of states.

India is actively building relationships across the Indo-Pacific region. Prime Minister Modi's visits aim to strengthen ties with key nations. These partnerships focus on shared visions of a multipolar Asia. India seeks to enhance its strategic space and economic autonomy. This initiative underscores India's growing influence in the maritime domain.

The NIA filed charges against Hafiz Mohammad Saeed for the Pahalgam attack. Lashkar-e-Taiba and The Resistance Force were involved in the incident. This attack resulted in the deaths of twenty-six civilians last year. Saeed faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and UAPA. The agency detailed Pakistan's conspiracy and Saeed's role in its charge sheet.

The Supreme Court refused an urgent hearing for a PIL concerning alleged remarks. Justices advised the petitioner to approach the police first. The bench emphasized faith in the legal system and its processes. An influencer reportedly made derogatory comments which later went viral. The court stated parties should not bypass established legal procedures.

Government vendors will receive payments within three working days starting August. All ministries will fully switch to electronic bill processing, replacing paper documents. This move enhances ease of doing business and reduces payment delays for contractors. The government aims for end-to-end digital processing of expenditure with system-driven workflows. Each payment claim will now carry an automatically generated reference number for improved traceability.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust accepted resignations from key officials. Champat Rai and Anil Mishra stepped down following a preliminary report. Krishna Mohan was appointed as the interim general secretary of the trust. A committee will be formed to appoint a new chief executive officer. The trust will hold another meeting on July 22 to discuss further issues.

The Supreme Court will hear a DMK plea seeking to prevent public statements on a pending investigation. DMK alleges Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and ministers may influence witnesses. The party cited reports of government jobs being offered to victims' families. DMK stated welfare measures are acceptable but not witness influence. The court agreed to take up the urgent matter on Tuesday.

Two Assam Rifles personnel died and others were injured in an ambush. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon at Nungshang Kong on NH 202. Heavy gunfire continued for several hours after the initial attack. Manipur CM Y Khemchand Singh condemned the killings and promised justice. State home minister Govindas Konthoujam also condemned the attack.

A Supreme Court petition demands transparency in ethanol-blended petrol distribution. It seeks display of ethanol percentages on fuel nozzles and bills. The petition also requests a vehicle compatibility database for various ethanol blends. It aims to protect consumers from potential vehicle damage and warranty issues. An expert committee is proposed to study E20 compatibility and its implications.

Goyal will visit Spain, Belgium and Finland on July 14-15 with a delegation of business leaders as part of preparations for implementing the trade pact. He is also scheduled to meet EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic in Brussels. We have already started marketing Indian goods and services so that we are future-ready to get the best out of the FTAs that we have finalised, Goyal said at an event organised by the Council for Leather Exports.

Direct cash transfers to women boost household savings and spending effectively. Schemes in Maharashtra and Odisha showed significant improvements in savings. Monthly account balances increased substantially for beneficiaries in both states. Consumption spending also saw notable increases after these transfers were implemented. Expanding these programs can combine financial aid with women's economic empowerment.