The Economic Times

The RBI kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% for the fourth straight policy review, retained its neutral stance, raised its FY27 growth forecast to 6.7%, and lowered the inflation projection to 5%. It also announced revised loan pricing norms, plans to resume urban cooperative bank licences, and expressed confidence in India's economic resilience despite global uncertainties.

Leonardo DiCaprio and biologist Wes Sechrest met with the Amazon-founding billionaire Bezos and his wife, former TV news reporter and host Lauren Snchez Bezos in 2021.

New research suggests posture can influence emotions and decisions. Sitting upright led to more positive feelings and better risk-taking. Participants in the study did not realize their posture was being manipulated. This study aimed to address concerns raised by earlier posture research. Findings may have implications for everyday environments and workplace ergonomics.

Quote of the day by Mother Teresa describes joy as an active force rather than a passive feeling. Joy can inspire gratitude, strengthen resilience, deepen relationships and encourage compassion. It can make people more willing to notice others and respond to their needs. Perhaps that is why the message remains relevant across generations. Joy does not require perfect circumstances. It requires attention to what is meaningful.

Brain motivation: Researchers identified orexin neurons as key to sustained motivation during demanding tasks. These brain cells help maintain goal-directed behavior when increased effort is required. Studies with genetically modified rats demonstrated orexin neurons' direct influence on motivation levels. Activity in these neurons increased with anticipated rewards and required effort.

Quote of the day by Jude Law focuses on the place of family in a person's life. Law said success and life would not have value without his wife and children beside him. The quote explains why career goals, money and recognition can lose meaning when relationships are ignored. It also offers lessons about family, priorities, work, happiness and finding meaning beyond professional achievements.

Quote of the Day by Joan of Arc connects courage with action and faith with responsibility. When something matters, the first step may be difficult. Fear may remain. Doubts may continue. But taking that step can create momentum that was impossible while standing still. Sometimes the answer does not arrive before the journey begins. Sometimes the path becomes visible only after someone has the courage to walk it.

In 1909, a Black American entrepreneur, Garrett Morgan, was experimenting with a liquid to reduce friction from sewing machine needles when he noticed that it could straighten fibres. He tested the solution on animal fur and his own hair. The discovery led to a hair-refining business and became part of Morgans wider career as an inventor and entrepreneur.

Norse proverb of the day: A Norse saying teaches that our actions have lasting consequences. Mistreating others can damage trust and relationships significantly. Integrity and consistent good behavior build a strong reputation over time. Accountability for our choices is an essential part of life. Treating people with respect ensures future well-being and prevents regret.

Ancient Egyptian proverb of the day explains why balance between work and enjoyment matters in life. The saying from The Maxims of Ptahhotep teaches that spending every day working or worrying can remove happiness, while spending every day on fun can prevent responsibility, financial stability and a secure future.

World War II fluxgate magnetometer: A World War II device found new scientific purpose after the war. Oceanographers refitted the fluxgate magnetometer for seafloor magnetic anomaly measurements. These measurements revealed symmetrical patterns on either side of mid-ocean ridges. The magic profile provided strong evidence for seafloor spreading and plate tectonics.

The Rajya Sabha approved a bill to increase Supreme Court judges. This bill will replace the ordinance which previously raised the judge count. The passed bill was returned to Lok Sabha after its approval. Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated the bill improves judicial efficiency. The house adjourned for Thursday after the bill's passage.

The Lok Sabha approved the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill 2026, modernizing banking record laws for digital practices. Extensive studies confirm E20 fuel is safe for use, showing improved performance and reduced emissions. Electric vehicle penetration has significantly risen, driven by lower operational costs and zero tailpipe emissions. Over 4.6 lakh vehicles have been scrapped under the new policy, with discounts offered.

Central bank governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is premature to discuss UPI transaction charges. Discussions are ongoing regarding the payment mechanism's future and costs. The government is reportedly amending laws to allow merchant discount rates on select UPI transactions. This move follows Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's introduction of a new bill. The central bank's current focus remains on strengthening UPI adoption across India.

India's Solar Energy Corporation is seeking carbon dioxide suppliers for green urea and methanol. This initiative aims to identify potential sources for upcoming green chemical projects. Green methanol and urea production requires carbon dioxide and green hydrogen. Securing reliable carbon dioxide supplies is critical for domestic production and exports. The move supports India's green hydrogen ecosystem and decarbonization goals.

The Reserve Bank of India will absorb surplus liquidity from a special forex swap facility. This absorption will occur through higher currency in circulation and maturing forward positions. Banking system liquidity is expected to peak in September due to FCNR(B) deposit inflows. Economists anticipate a surplus of around 4-5 lakh crore in the banking system. The central bank will then begin withdrawing excess liquidity through durable absorption measures.

The Reserve Bank of India plans to standardize interest rate rules for all regulated entities. This new principle-based framework aims to increase transparency and ensure uniformity across lending. The proposed changes are unlikely to affect EMIs or bring NBFCs into the external benchmark regime. Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated this move will improve consumer protection and rationalise existing norms.

Foreign-invested ecommerce firms must register as exporter-on-record for export inventory. These companies can only procure and stock goods against confirmed export orders. Speculative stockpiling for future outbound shipping will not be allowed by the government. Indian sellers can access overseas markets by delegating export tasks to the exporter-on-record. This framework aims to boost India's export capabilities and ensure timely payments.

Quote of the Day by Tommy Lee Jones: Tommy Lee Jones quote, In the political world, the only position I have is voter. I'm not a spokesman for anything explores the importance of personal independence, individual responsibility, and the freedom to maintain ones own opinions. The quote suggests that people can participate in political life and make meaningful choices without being defined as representatives of a specific cause, group, or ideology. It highlights the value of thoughtful citizenship

J&K Police has announced a significant reward for information leading to the arrest of a terrorist. Mohammad Lateef Bhat is wanted for the killing of a policeman in Anantnag last month. Posters seeking reliable information about the suspect have been displayed across Kashmir. The police released photographs and CCTV footage of the 22-year-old accused. Bhat is a resident of Kulgam and allegedly shot the head constable on July 22.

The Reserve Bank of India will not close the swap window early. Robust foreign currency inflows have strengthened India's balance of payments position. The central bank has not received any proposals for extending the deadline. This facility allows banks to swap overseas borrowings at concessional rates. The swap window has already attracted significant dollar inflows by July.

The government is creating a customs playbook for key imported goods. This initiative aims to standardize the faceless customs regime across India. It will reduce disputes and speed up clearance times for businesses. The playbook will help companies utilize free trade agreement benefits effectively. This reform seeks to improve ease of doing business and trade efficiency.

Alarmed by the situation in Iran, UN rights chief Volker Turk highlighted the alarming execution rates, with over fifty-six individuals condemned on security charges since March. Most of these cases appear tied to recent civil unrest. Furthermore, drug offenses exacerbate the death penalty issue, while doubts linger about the integrity of trials and reports of torture in securing confessions.

The Delhi High Court has asked the government for its response on a plea. This plea seeks automatic tax deducted at source refunds for individuals not owing income tax. Currently, these individuals must file an income tax return to claim their refunds. The court is considering directing immediate processing of unclaimed TDS refunds up to 5,000. A permanent automatic TDS refund mechanism for future years is also being sought.

Financial regulators are exploring adding insurance surety bond exposures to a central credit database. This move aims to provide banks and rating agencies a clearer view of corporate leverage. Currently, these contingent liabilities often escape regulatory reporting requirements. Many government departments now accept these bonds instead of traditional bank guarantees. Expanding the database will strengthen credit appraisal processes for lenders.

HDFC Bank assured shareholders about its strong governance credentials. No US lawsuits have been filed against the bank following investigations. The bank's leadership stated they are well-positioned to defend any potential legal action. HDFC Bank is fundamentally strong with a pristine balance sheet. The integration with HDFC Limited is unlocking meaningful synergies for future growth.

Today's Japanese Proverb of the Day brings a timeless lesson on anger, patience, emotional intelligence, and inner peace. The Japanese proverb, Fire is not extinguished by more fire, but by water. Anger, too, is never calmed by more anger, reminds us that calm responses solve conflicts better than angry reactions. Here is its deeper meaning, life lessons, and practical wisdom for stronger relationships and a more peaceful life.

American businesses added fewer jobs in July than experts had predicted, with private payrolls up by just 44,000 the weakest increase this year. Conversely, job switchers enjoyed the steepest wage hikes in almost a year, reflecting a resilient labor market driven by substantial demand. This moderation gives Federal Reserve officials the leeway to concentrate on inflation worries.

The Delhi High Court is reviewing Natco Pharma's challenge to a breast cancer drug patent. Natco alleges Novartis and Astex secured two patents for the same invention. This action, Natco claims, unlawfully extends patent protection for the Ribociclib molecule. The court will first determine the petition's maintainability after legal arguments. The case has been scheduled for further hearing on September 16.

India's services sector expanded slowly in July, reaching a 53-month low. New business inflows moderated across domestic and international markets, impacting growth. Manufacturing activity also lost momentum, contributing to a composite PMI decline. Services firms remained optimistic about future business despite current slowdowns. Hiring showed a modest rebound as input cost inflation eased.

Aristotle's Quote of the day reminds us that excellence is not something people are born with but something they build through consistent actions and good habits. Inspired by the philosopher's teachings in Nicomachean Ethics, the quote highlights the importance of practice, discipline and making the right choices over time. Here is the meaning behind the quote, Aristotle's life, his major works and the lasting impact of his ideas on philosophy, ethics and science.

India's fertilizer production and imports have fallen sharply in the June quarter. This decline is due to inflated raw material prices caused by the West Asia conflict. Production of complex fertilizers dropped twenty-eight percent, and imports slipped forty-eight point five percent. Ammonia and sulphur prices have nearly doubled, making manufacturing and imports less viable. This situation raises concerns over nutrient availability for the ongoing crop sowing season.

NITI Aayog suggests a dedicated policy framework for India's growing ageing population. It calls for regulating the caregiving ecosystem and setting essential caregiving standards. The report proposes financial incentives and entrepreneurship opportunities for caregivers to boost scalability. It also recommends introducing care leave for employees supporting dependent parents. Establishing a National Caregiving Council will provide institutional leadership and coordination.

Do not judge your neighbor until you walk two moons in his moccasins is a powerful American proverb about empathy, patience and understanding. Explore the deeper life lessons from American proverb wisdom and discover why we should think twice before judging someone whose struggles, experiences and journey we may not fully understand.

Quote of the day by Dr. Seuss teaches us when a meaningful chapter closes, sadness may naturally come first. But with time, gratitude can join it. Instead of asking only why something had to end, we can also ask what made it worth having in the first place. That shiftfrom loss toward appreciationdoes not change the past. It changes how we carry it. And sometimes, that is enough to turn an ending from something we only mourn into something we can genuinely smile about.

The Kerala High Court has formed a six-member SIT to investigate Milma ghee procurement irregularities. This special team will probe alleged irregularities in the supply of Milma ghee to the Sabarimala temple. The SIT will be headed by Superintendent of Police MJ Sojan, who is already investigating another case. This officer is investigating the alleged criminal misappropriation of Adiya Sishtam Ghee proceeds.

Bhartiya Hospitality and Oberoi Group will partner for twenty luxury resorts. These resorts will be developed across India and international locations. Initial locations include Coorg, Kabini, and Hampi for these new properties. The companies announced that these resorts are scheduled to open by 2030. Oberoi Group will manage resorts encouraging longer guest stays.

Eicher Motors secured nearly 400,000 sq ft on lease in Sriperumbudur. This expansion supports Royal Enfield's growing manufacturing footprint in Tamil Nadu. The company will invest significantly in a new plant in Andhra Pradesh. This new facility will boost Royal Enfield's total annual motorcycle capacity. Sriperumbudur remains a key manufacturing hub attracting automotive investments.

In a bold move, Bharti Airtel is set to increase its data centre capacity to one gigawatt while also expanding its fibre network across key Indian cities. The company envisions financial services as a primary growth engine, utilizing established digital platforms to their full potential. Additionally, it is focusing on integrating artificial intelligence to boost operational efficiency.

In an exciting turn for Vodafone Idea, chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla has announced a critical new execution phase for the company. This development follows the settlement of long-existing financial challenges and a rise in subscriber numbers. The telecom giant is now gearing up to ramp up network investments and enhance its market competitiveness.

Trai has unveiled a set of new quality of service guidelines for 5G network slicing aimed at safeguarding subscribers from service deterioration. Telecom operators are now permitted to implement distinct pricing for 4G and 5G offerings. Every network slice will be considered an independent tariff category, with a mandate for operators to reveal the measured speeds associated with each network slice.

In a strategic move, Air India has welcomed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new chief executive officer. Gebremariam, who achieved remarkable success with Ethiopian Airlines, is stepping into a role that comes with hefty expectations amidst Tata Group's efforts to revive the airline. Following substantial losses since the 2022 acquisition, Gebremariam's proven expertise is anticipated to play a pivotal role in shaping Air India's recovery and growth trajectory.

Advertisers have shifted their focus, now putting greater emphasis on a celebrity's social media impact rather than their filmography for endorsement deals. Shah Rukh Khan exemplifies this trend, maintaining a strong brand presence without any recent cinematic releases. Digital endorsement agreements constitute a noteworthy part of total deals, with brands prioritizing favorable online opinions and innovative content creation as evaluation criteria.

In a significant move, United Spirits and Associated Alcohol & Breweries are contesting a directive from the food regulator regarding flavor regulations. They've launched court cases aimed at questioning the FSSAIs stance on allowing flavors that mimic natural profiles. This legal action highlights a broader industry dialogue with the food regulator, focusing on the clarity and application of flavoring rules within the beverage sector.

In the June quarter, Berger Paints India experienced a remarkable increase in profits, with its decorative paints segment marking its best growth in twelve quarters. Additionally, the automotive sector demonstrated strong demand. The company achieved high single-digit volume growth, with a value growth of 12.7 percent, driven largely by recent price adjustments.

Tamil Nadu's finance minister presented the 2026-27 budget, aiming for a $1.5 trillion economy by 2031. A new industrial policy will foster innovation and technology-driven growth across emerging sectors. The government allocated significant funds for industries and introduced AI-powered investment platforms. New industrial parks will be established in backward districts, and Thoothukudi will become a space zone. The budget also detailed plans for India's first AI and Innovation city, 'Arivagam'

Biryani is one of the world's most loved dishes, but its origin remains a topic of debate. While historians trace its earliest roots to ancient Persia, the layered and richly spiced biryani known today evolved over centuries in the Indian subcontinent through the influence of local ingredients, cooking techniques and regional traditions. Here's the fascinating journey of how this iconic dish came to be.

United Breweries is now projecting that the ongoing West Asia crisis will have a reduced effect on its earnings. Strong price adjustments in twenty-two states have significantly mitigated the challenges posed by increasing input and supply-chain costs. Despite successfully executing most of its recovery strategies, the volatility stemming from the West Asia situation remains pronounced, making it too soon to claim that the peak of cost pressures has been reached.