The Economic Times

Old sarees hold potential beyond their original use, providing a trove of creative opportunities for home decor and organization. From vibrant cushion covers to elegant table runners, the fabric can breathe new life into any space. Consider crafting reusable bags for efficient storage solutions too. However, evaluating the saree's condition is essential. Choosing intact sections enhances both the final design's resilience and visual charm.

Global mergers and acquisitions activity saw a notable decline in the third quarter, totaling $993 billion. This figure marks a 41% decrease compared to the previous quarter, falling below $1 trillion. Despite this dip, worldwide M&A is up 28% year-to-date, reaching $3.9 trillion, the highest since 2001. Asia Pacific M&A experienced growth, totaling $242 billion, boosted by companies seeking strategic acquisitions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended Captain Smit Machchhar for his brave actions during a flight incident. While traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, he successfully thwarted an attack by his co-pilot. Captain Machchhar is recovering in a UAE hospital, where he is stable and in good spirits. Video footage has emerged showing the chaos aboard the flight following the attack.

The Centre has formally identified 28 strategic places and geographical features in Ladakh on the official Survey of India map, including Gogra and Hot Spring, which were friction points during the 2020 India-China border standoff. The move, carried out in consultation with the Ladakh administration, aims to standardise place and feature names, improve identification and promote public awareness of the sensitive border region.

Chinese construction at Antelope Reef is well underway, aiming to develop a significant military runway. Analysts project its completion by mid-2027, which would strengthen Beijing's military presence in the South China Sea. Satellite imagery reveals extensive ongoing work including grading and compacting the runway foundation. The base could significantly extend the range of Chinese naval and military operations in the region.

Foreign currency non-resident inflows have significantly bolstered rupee stability and India's balance of payments. However, the current support from these inflows may not suffice for long-term external stability. Foreign institutional investor flows are crucial for maintaining economic balance as the support from FCNR is absorbed. India's goods deficit has reached a decade-high despite continuous support from services exports and remittances.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd reported that cargo handling rose in September 2026. The company handled 46 million metric tonnes, marking an 11% increase over the previous year. Container cargo contributed to this growth with a 15% year-on-year rise. However, logistics rail volume experienced a decrease in the first half of FY27. This was despite a 3% increase in September for rail volumes.

India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is actively engaged in negotiations for several trade agreements at the G20 meeting. Talks with the US include an interim pact and finalizing issues for a broader agreement. Discussions with Canada aim to conclude a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement by the end of 2026. Existing trade agreements with the UK and Australia are also under review for their implementation and effectiveness.

Bengaluru techie Shivank Goel shared how living alone helped him discover and accept his default settings. He revealed that he used to frantically clean his apartment before friends visited, hiding laundry and washing mugs. He eventually stopped preparing for guests, only for friends to call out his messiness and quirky habits. The experience taught him that independence also means meeting yourself honestly, accepting your habits and making space for solitude.

Jason Sanjay makes his directorial debut with Sigma, which premiered on October 2, featuring Sundeep Kishan and Faria Abdullah. This action-adventure heist film has stirred mixed opinions among audiences. Read on to know what netizens have to say about the film.

Nethra Kumanan secured a bronze medal in the women's dinghy event at the Asian Games 2026. Indian sailors previously achieved multiple medals in both men's and women's skiff competitions. The Indian women's archery team also won gold against South Korea in the recurve team event. Various athletes progressed to semifinals in wrestling and cycling competitions during the games. Currently, India ranks sixth in the overall medal tally with 70 medals.

Jason Collins' exquisite Brentwood abode is currently on the market for $3.75 million. Purchased in 2004 for $2.39 million, the luxurious property boasts spacious living areas and is nestled within a secure, guard-gated community. Offering an array of outdoor entertainment facilities, including a refreshing swimming pool and relaxing hot tub, Collins called this residence home for over twenty years, witnessing numerous significant life events.

A Delhi consumer commission has ordered Sanjeevani Dairy Farms to refund Rs 170 retained in a customer's milk delivery app wallet after he stopped the service over poor-quality milk. The commission also awarded Rs 2,500 for mental harassment, agony and litigation expenses, along with 6% annual interest on the refund. The order was passed on September 22, 2026.

Gypsy Rose Blanchards former fianc Ken Urker has died at the age of 33. According to TMZ, Urker was found unresponsive at a home in Louisiana on Thursday, October 1, which was his birthday. His sister also confirmed his death on live Tiktok.

A new Tibetan historical drama, Four Rivers Six Ranges, is bringing renewed attention to Tibets resistance movement and the exile communitys efforts to preserve its history. The film, shot partly in Nepals Mustang region, follows fighters who aided the Dalai Lamas 1959 escape and arrives as Tibets political future faces uncertainty over the Dalai Lamas succession and evolving India-China ties.

The Mangaluru railway region has officially shifted from the Palakkad Division of Southern Railway to the Mysuru Division of South Western Railway after decades under Palakkad. Operational control changed from Thursday, while administrative and financial separation is expected to take another 30 to 45 days. Meanwhile, railway users have raised concerns over changes to the Mangaluru-Madgaon Vande Bharat service.

Drishyam 3: The Conclusion has been released in theatres and has received positive feedback from audiences. The film follows Vijay Salgaonkar, played by Ajay Devgn, as he faces new challenges with the law. The story is different from previous adaptations, offering a unique screenplay made specifically for the Hindi audience. Read on to know if its worth watching.

Gauri Jauhar emphasizes the importance of energy resilience for India's future energy security and storage policies. An integrated framework for storage across various energy sources is essential for long-term stability. India's refining sector plays a crucial role in managing crude import dependence and generating foreign exchange earnings. The transition to clean energy and green hydrogen will occur gradually while India remains an attractive destination for energy investments.

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust decides to conduct 100 percent verification of all staff working at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The security measures will include police verification, character certificates and detailed family information. The decision will be applicable to all members of the trust. As part of the overhaul of the temple administration, the trust has also stepped up monitoring of staff and improving facilities.

Indian jurist Bimal Patel has officially taken charge as a judge at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in Hamburg. Patel began his nine-year term after taking oath on Thursday, succeeding Neeru Chadha, whose tenure ended on Wednesday. He was elected to the tribunal last year with 115 votes out of 168 valid ballots.

Rising energy costs and El Nino conditions are challenging developing countries facing financial distress. Governments are struggling to manage high fuel prices and increasing debt levels. Recent UNDP surveys indicate that the crisis is affecting approximately 100 countries and worsening food insecurity. Many nations anticipate that conditions will deteriorate, prioritizing economic health. There is an urgent need for global discussions to address these mounting challenges.

The insights shared by Shivank Goel regarding life in Bengaluru have stirred considerable conversation on social media about salaries and living costs. He warned that those making below 1 lakh should think twice before moving due to the city's steep expenses. Goel noted that the commercialization leads to high costs for leisure and housing while commuting adds further financial stress.

India's mixed recurve archery team secured a place in the gold-medal final after defeating Japan. After trailing 1-3, they rallied to win the semifinal match with a score of 5-3. Earlier, India won gold in the women's recurve team event against South Korea, marking a historic achievement. Kumkum Mohod and Dhiraj Bommadevara delivered strong performances throughout their matches. The team will face China in the final, aiming for Olympic qualification.

Rick Devens has won Big Brother 28, defeating Taylor Brown and Drew Campbell with a 6-1 jury vote to claim the $750,000 grand prize. The Survivor alum also won Americas Favorite Houseguest, adding another $50,000 and taking his total season earnings to $810,000. His victory marks the first time a Survivor player has won Big Brother. Devens previously competed on Survivors Edge of Extinction and its landmark 50th season.

Asian Games 2026 double-gold medallist Neeru Dhanda opened up about her journey in trap shooting, crediting coach Mansher Singh for supporting her career over the past six years. Dhanda recalled starting out with her cousin Lakshya Sheorans equipment before joining the Bhopal Shooting Academy. After her historic Asian Games campaign, she has now set her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Chad Lowe and Kim Painter are heartbroken after the tragic passing of their 13-year-old daughter, Fiona. Known for her talent and kindness, she lived passionately for dance. In this time of grief, the family is seeking prayers and respect for their privacy. Fiona's death deeply affects her friends and classmates.

Ajay Devgns Drishyam 3: The Conclusion made its debut in theatres on October 2, 2023. Audience responses have been overwhelmingly positive, particularly praising the building tension, unexpected twists, and compelling performances. Directed by Abhishek Pathak, the film stars Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, Prakash Raj and Jaideep Ahlawat in key roles.

India's economic growth is projected to slow to 5.5-6% in the second half of 2026-27. This slowdown follows a robust growth of 7-7.5% in the first half of the financial year. Combined capital expenditure growth is expected to moderate significantly from 13.2% to around 4% in the latter months. Additionally, the central government's capital expenditure growth will weaken due to a declining fiscal position.

India and Australia are looking to accelerate negotiations on their Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell discussing cooperation in pharmaceuticals, services, investment, agri-tech and critical minerals. The two sides also reviewed implementation of their existing ECTA and are working towards a bilateral investment treaty.

The US has urged European allies to release strategic diesel reserves immediately as global fuel prices surge amid supply disruptions linked to the Iran war. Washington is also considering a diesel export ban, putting pressure on France and Germany to tap stockpiles. US diesel prices have climbed more than 70% since the war began, reaching $6.39 a gallon.

India and Bulgaria have called for early implementation of the India-EU free trade agreement, saying it could significantly deepen bilateral economic ties. The two sides also reviewed cooperation in trade, investment, AI, space, defence, science and technology, while discussing wider regional and global issues.

Poddar Keventer Capital Advisors Private Limited plans to raise up to Rs 400 crore for its Category II AIF. The fund will focus on real estate projects in Kolkata and Delhi over the next six years. Sponsors have committed to 20% of the target corpus, which stands at Rs 80 crore. The fund aims for a gross IRR of 18% to 22% before expenses.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will hold a safety review of a software issue affecting Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that could increase pilot workload during a go-around. The review could determine whether the issue affects certification of the 737 MAX 10, which has been delayed pending the FAAs analysis. US officials and airline executives have said they do not currently view the issue as a safety concern.

Fahadh Faasil makes his lead role debut in the Telugu film industry with Don't Trouble The Trouble, hitting theaters on October 2. Audience reactions have been mixed, while some viewers lauded the performances, especially by Fahadh as a magician and Ssara Palekar as a genie, others pointed out the film's lack of originality and suspense. Read on!

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.