The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Apples iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max introduce several major changes to the iPhone lineup, including a new variable-aperture camera, 2nm A20 Pro chip, C2 modem and updated Dynamic Island. The Pro models also bring more manual camera controls and new technology aimed at improving photo authenticity. Here are seven of the biggest changes Apple has introduced for the first time with the iPhone 18 Pro series, and what they mean for users.
Ather Energy's stock price has significantly increased since its IPO. Ola Electric's shares are currently trading below their initial public offering price. Ather's average monthly sales have risen, while Ola's have declined sharply. Product development and management strategy differentiate these two electric scooter companies. Hero MotoCorp continues to invest in Ather, showing strong confidence in its future.
The Serious Fraud Investigation Office seeks permission for a deeper probe into Xiaomi. This investigation will examine fund transfers and mandatory investment approvals. Xiaomi India has stated it has received no notice or communication from the SFIO. The company maintains it fully complies with all Indian laws. Regulations for Chinese investments were tightened after 2020 and recently relaxed.
Apple has launched its first foldable iPhone Duo on 9th September 2026. This new device enters a market already refined by Samsung's foldable technology. The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch main display and a 5.4-inch outer screen. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 also offers a 7.6-inch main display and a 5.5-inch cover screen. Both devices boast 3,000 nits of brightness. Here is the full comparison between the two flagship devices.
Apple launched its first foldable iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro models. The company also introduced the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 wearables. New AirPods 5 with enhanced noise cancellation were also announced. Indian pricing for these devices ranges from Rs 14,900 to Rs 2,99,900. Availability for most products in India begins in September and October.
Unilever views India as its emerging market growth blueprint, anticipating significant expansion. The company is allocating substantial acquisition funds to build premium brands in India. Structural shifts like Gen Z and digitisation are transforming the Indian consumer landscape. Unilever leverages granular market understanding for distribution and marketing strategies. Inflation presents a challenge, which the company plans to manage through pricing and brand portfolio.
Apple has launched the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in India with several launch offers for buyers. The new iPhones come with eligible bank cashback, up to six months of No Cost EMI and trade-in benefits, which can help reduce the effective purchase cost. Heres a look at the available bank offers, cashback, EMI options and trade-in deals for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.
Danone aims for India to be a significant long-term growth engine.CEO Antoine de Saint-Affrique emphasizes profitable expansion, avoiding rapid market entry.The company focuses on specialized nutrition, building its Aptamil brand's credibility.India's demographics and growing demand for premium baby-care products are key.Danone is intentionally investing to build a sizable business from a small base.
Indian households faced increased summer expenses, affecting grocery budgets significantly. Chocolate and dairy consumption declined while hydration products saw higher demand. FMCG companies reported shifts in sales, with glucose and juices performing well. Peak-risk households showed a greater need for summer-adapted products. Brands must adapt portfolios to meet evolving consumer needs during extreme heat.
Garg, who has been at the centre of the recent controversy over the government's GDP growth estimates, had questioned the Centre's claim of 14.8% growth in gross GST collections in August and 11% growth in the first five months. In a social-media post, with an attached article, he argued that the headline numbers present an overly favourable picture of revenue performance because compensation cess collected in the year-earlier period was excluded from the comparison.
India's merchandise exports saw over fifteen percent growth from April to August. The nation has set ambitious export targets for the upcoming fiscal year. BRICS nations possess significant potential for expanding trade in goods and services. Discussions also focused on improving trade facilitation and digitalizing trade documents. India and Thailand reviewed their trade agreement to boost bilateral engagement.
India's minister will meet Russian and EAEU counterparts to advance trade deal talks. Negotiations for a trade pact with the Eurasian Economic Union are in advanced stages. India seeks to diversify export markets and reduce its significant trade deficit. Bilateral trade targets with Russia are set at approximately one hundred billion dollars. BRICS trade has doubled, with imports significantly outpacing exports.
Brands and manufacturers have also initiated recruitment significantly earlier this year, moving away from reactive, last-minute hiring towards a more structured pipeline initiated 12-14 weeks ahead of the festive peak, said Yeshab Giri, chief commercial officer, operational talent solutions, Randstad India. Randstad expects seasonal hiring to grow 12-15% increase over last festive season, led by targeted deployment across retail counters, field sales, and consumer engagement roles.
Apple has launched its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, priced at $1,999. This strategic entry aims to leverage the existing iPhone user base for category growth. Analysts believe Apple's late entry will allow it to shape the foldable market. The company expects to ship ten million units in the first year.
National Highways Authority of India now requires 80% plantation coverage for project completion. A minimum 90% sapling survival rate is also mandated for provisional certification. Financial withholdings will enforce outstanding plantation work completion and target achievement. Payments during the operations period will link to maintaining plant survival rates. Timely replacement of dead or damaged plants is now a mandatory requirement.
Whether we like it or not, life is marred by uncertainties. Our cherished, best-laid plans can backfire or result in failure. We may be overlooked for promotion or even lose our job. Setbacks lurk in every corner. However, we need not be bitter about them. In his book, psychologist Carl Rogers explained how its these uncertainties that make life so exciting.
Corrosion costs India's infrastructure sector an estimated 1.42 lakh crore each year. Better prevention measures could save approximately 49,580 crore annually. The report suggests implementing corrosion-protection requirements based on environmental exposure. Indian regulations often recognize these measures but leave adoption as an option. Infrastructure owners and policymakers should consider long-term value over initial material prices.
Apples iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max go up against Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra in the premium flagship segment. Heres how the three phones compare on price, display, processor, cameras, battery, charging, AI features, storage and other key specifications, and which model offers the biggest advantages in each area.
Northern Coalfields Limited has boosted coal output and deliveries significantly. This increase follows the easing of monsoon rains, aiding supply chains. Power plants in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan are now receiving more coal. NCL has produced over fifty-one million tonnes of coal this year. Approximately eighty-seven percent of these supplies are directed to the power sector.
The All-India Food Processors' Association has intervened in the Supreme Court regarding proposed nutrition labels. They seek labels based on per-serving consumption, not a uniform benchmark. This comes after the FSSAI proposed mandatory red hexagonal warning labels for certain packaged foods. The industry argues that different food categories should be assessed by normal consumption quantities. This approach could impact traditional foods and smaller businesses due to reformulation costs.
The government is set to engage with farmer organizations regarding a forthcoming seed bill aimed at curtailing the distribution of counterfeit and low-quality seeds. Anticipated provisions include tougher penalties and enhanced quality control measures, designed to safeguard farmers against potential crop failures and economic setbacks. This consultation constitutes the last opportunity for stakeholders to weigh in before the legislation is presented to Parliament.
India's peak power demand has significantly increased this September, exceeding last year's levels. Sultry weather and deficient rainfall are driving higher cooling and irrigation needs. This sustained demand has pressured thermal power projects as hydro generation slowed. Critically low coal inventories at many plants prompted increased supplies and improved rake loading. Northern Coalfields Ltd has boosted production and dispatches, easing supply disruptions for power plants.
India's monsoon rainfall deficit stands at fifteen percent, impacting nearly half of its districts. This shortage threatens summer-sown crops like pulses and soybeans, potentially reducing yields. Several states are implementing water rationing measures to conserve resources for winter crops. High temperatures are exacerbating the moisture deficit across key agricultural regions.
Delhi nutritionist Lovneet Batra shares practical food swaps that can enhance your fibre intake. By incorporating greens into your eggs, you not only increase fibre content but also the overall volume of your meal. Opting for overnight oats mixed with flaxseeds and chia seeds provides a fibre boost compared to traditional cereal. Whole-wheat bread topped with hummus and avocado outshines the classic toast with jam.
Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, 18 Pro, and 18 Pro Max in India. These new iPhones will be available for purchase starting September 18. Pre-orders for the devices commence on October 16. The Pro models feature the new A20 Pro chip and upgraded camera systems. Enhanced battery life and advanced AI focus tracking are also highlighted.
The government is supporting flexi-fuel vehicles to boost ethanol blending in petrol. This initiative aims to reduce crude oil imports and enhance energy security. New dispensing stations will be established across India over the next two years. Automobile companies are preparing to introduce flexi-fuel vehicles to the market. This move is critical amid global energy supply disruptions and rising oil prices.
India's Financial Intelligence Unit has issued compliance notices to fifteen virtual digital asset service providers. These platforms are accused of violating the country's anti-money laundering framework and must now be taken down. Action targets both offshore and onshore crypto entities operating without proper registration. Virtual digital asset service providers were brought under the AML framework in March 2023.
In a groundbreaking move, Apple has unveiled its inaugural foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, in conjunction with the iPhone 18 Pro. This latest device showcases a vibrant 6.3-inch display, powered by the innovative A20 Pro chip, while the 48MP Fusion Main camera elevates photography to new heights. With the release of iOS 27, Siri AI integrates seamlessly, allowing for up to 36 hours of uninterrupted video playback.
The upcoming PM KUSUM phase will feature a dedicated agrivoltaics component for farmers. This initiative will allow farmers to earn income from generated electricity. The focus will be on small farmers, cooperatives, and panchayats. Agrivoltaics combines farming and solar power generation on the same land. More research is needed to optimize crop and solar configurations.
Indian kitchen staples are increasingly exported due to global demand for authentic flavors. Exports of pickles, honey, and pastes grew significantly, reaching over $576 million. Honey led this growth, with the United States remaining the largest market. Mixed condiments and jams also showed substantial increases in export value. Addressing post-harvest losses can further boost exports of fruit-based products.
Upholding the curbs on Dabur hair oil over Emami trade dress, the HC's division bench in May said that Dabur had been rightly restrained because the trade dress of its product, including the layout and colour scheme, was deceptively similar to Emami's product and was likely to mislead consumers, amounting to passing off.
A Supreme Court bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and KV Viswanathan partly allowed Sebi's appeals against SAT's ruling and asked the tribunal to reconsider the question of fraud alone under the PFUTP regulations and decide on the matter in six months. The tribunal was directed to reconsider the matter after examining disputed trading data and other facts.
In a significant move, Apple unveils its inaugural foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, marking its foray into a new market. This device showcases a stylish book-style fold with unique screen dimensions tailored for flexibility. With the robust A20 Pro chip at its core and ample RAM, the iPhone Duo features an innovative dual-camera system on the back, allowing users a tablet-style experience when expanded.
IndianOil, BPCL, and HPCL are set to achieve remarkable profits during the July-September quarter, showcasing a stark recovery from their previous quarter's losses. This impressive financial rebound is attributed to robust refining and marketing margins. Collectively, these companies anticipate a combined profit of 14,470 crore, provided that current market conditions remain stable until the end of September.
The National Housing Bank raised concerns over SRG Housing Finance, identifying potentially fictitious loan accounts. Investigations have revealed that around one-third of the lender's loan portfolio consists of these phantom accounts. The inquiry also indicated possible manipulation regarding non-performing assets and the practice of evergreening. Funds linked to these dubious accounts were allegedly redirected to promoters' entities. This issue surfaces amid heightened scrutiny on smaller hous
Today, Apple launched the Watch Ultra 4 with a starting price of 109,900. This robust device showcases a revamped health sensing system alongside the innovative custom S11 chip. Notably, it boasts improved battery life in all modes of use. Pre-orders are now live, with units set to hit stores on September 18. The watch operates on watchOS 27, featuring Apple Intelligence for superior performance.
Apple has officially unveiled the latest iPhone 18 Pro Max, boasting impressive internal upgrades. With the cutting-edge A20 Pro chip and a state-of-the-art variable aperture camera, users can enjoy enhanced photography. Additionally, battery performance has significantly improved, allowing for longer video playback. However, the new pricing in India raises eyebrows, making this high-end model a considerable choice for discerning customers.
The existence of a criminal conspiracy is ordinarily a matter which is required to be inferred from the conduct of the parties and the circumstances brought on record, the HC said. Direct evidence of an agreement is seldom available, it said, adding that whether the material ultimately establishes a meeting of minds between the accused persons is a matter to be examined upon appreciation of the evidence and cannot ordinarily be conclusively determined in proceedings in the high court.
Smuggled gold is distorting India's bullion market, impacting legitimate dealers and jewelers. Higher import duties have made the grey market increasingly attractive for gold. Industry estimates suggest over one hundred tonnes could enter India illegally this year. This development occurs while revenue intelligence agencies intensify their crackdown on smuggling. Jewellery council chairman suggests reducing import duties to boost exports.
Taskeen Khan was once a beauty queen with dreams of landing the ultimate, prized crown of being Miss India. However, she decided to leave behind her dreams in 2020 and began a new journey with a brand new dream crack the UPSC exam. After three failed attempts, she finally managed to clear both prelims and mains during her fourth attempt.
Indias merchandise exports are estimated to have grown by over 15% during April-August this fiscal despite global uncertainties, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said. He highlighted the scope to expand goods and services trade with BRICS nations. Official August trade data will be released by the Commerce Ministry on September 15.
Mumbai nutritionist Vanshika Khurana shared a protein-rich pancake recipe. This savoury pancake is loaded with vegetables and offers 25g protein. Silken tofu and rice flour form the base of this healthy dish. Shredded zucchini, carrot, onion, and cabbage add nutrients and texture. Enjoy these crispy pancakes immediately with a soy sauce dressing.
Apple's latest AirPods 5 earbuds feature improved audio and active noise cancellation. These new earbuds also offer live translation and hands-free access to Siri AI. The redesigned AirPods 5 boast enhanced durability for everyday use and workouts. One model provides five hours of listening time with ANC and on-stem controls. Both models are available for pre-order starting September 9 and release September 18.
Apple has unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, showcasing the cutting-edge A20 Pro chip that promises remarkable performance improvements. Featuring an innovative 48MP Fusion sensor with a variable aperture, these models ensure stunning photography. Highlights include enhanced battery longevity and superior thermal management, alongside advanced AI functionalities and improvements to Siri.
Quote of the day by Dale Carnegie: Dale Carnegie's philosophy suggests accepting the worst possible outcome to reduce fear. This approach allows individuals to think more clearly and make better decisions. By confronting potential negative scenarios, people can prepare for challenges effectively. Accepting a negative possibility does not mean abandoning efforts to prevent it. This mindset shift transforms fear into proactive planning and potential gains.
Jacob Coxon, a former Anthropic researcher who also worked at OpenAI, has raised a chilling warning about the rapid development of artificial intelligence. Coxon says AI could soon become superhuman systems capable of hacking anything, transforming entire fields overnight and acquiring real power and resources. Other Anthropic researchers have also warned about the potential risks of advanced AI.
Zuno General Insurance has launched a new product called Fuel Guard. This add-on covers damage to cars caused by blended fuel use. The product offers protection for specified engine and fuel-system components. It is available for cars purchased after April 2023. This initiative supports consumers in a changing fuel landscape.
The Karnataka Cabinet approved free cultivation services for farmers owning up to three acres. A drone testing facility will be established in Chikkaballapur for advanced technology. An Artificial Intelligence Hub will be set up at IIIT-B for training and support. Women beneficiaries of the Shakti scheme will receive a new Shakti Smart Card. The state also approved a new textile policy aiming for significant investment.
North Carolina's peatlands, vital carbon stores, are being restored by Pantheon Regeneration. These ancient ecosystems hold twice the carbon of all Earth's forests combined. Draining these lands releases significant greenhouse gases into the atmosphere annually. Pantheon plans to sell carbon credits to fund permanent peatland conservation efforts. This initiative aims to protect these lands from future exploitation and degradation.
The Ukrainian proverb To wait for the weather from the sea highlights a common human tendency. This saying cautions against passively awaiting favorable conditions instead of acting. Patience is valuable, but prolonged hesitation can lead to missed opportunities. The proverb encourages focusing on controllable actions rather than external factors. It ultimately advises making decisions and taking steps forward.

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