The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Fairfax Financial Holdings is considering selling its IIFL Finance stake. This move supports its planned acquisition of IDBI Bank Ltd. The Canadian firm is in talks with private equity firms for this potential sale. This transaction is part of a larger strategy for the Indian banking sector. The company aims to consolidate its Indian lending investments after the acquisition.
Orris Infrastructure and Godrej Properties have settled their dispute concerning the Godrej Air project in Gurugram. The Bombay High Court recorded the settlement agreement and quashed related FIRs and proceedings. Following the settlement, the court also directed the immediate release of Orris Infrastructure's Managing Director. This resolution brings closure to the dispute, allowing all parties to move forward.
Rakul Preet Singhs 4,200 sq ft Mumbai home blends luxury with sustainability, featuring elegant wooden interiors, a serene terrace, poolside balcony and private mini cinema. The actress and husband Jackky Bhagnani also maintain a terrace kitchen garden, growing tomatoes, pumpkins, chillies, leafy greens and other produce. Their eco-friendly approach uses fertiliser derived from biogas waste, adding a green touch to their glamorous home.
Apple may soon launch its first foldable iPhone device. This move comes as the overall smartphone market faces decline. Foldable phones represent a growing segment within this shrinking market. Apple's entry could significantly boost foldable sales and consumer interest. This expansion may also encourage more app development for larger screens.
The Bharat Health Global Expo is expected to grow substantially. Its next edition will be four times larger than the current one. Participation is also projected to increase sixfold for the upcoming event. This expansion will foster India's growing healthcare ecosystem. The expo aims to connect various healthcare value chain participants.
Abbayi Kanth's social media post drew attention to a disgracefully polluted temple well in Andhra Pradesh, sparking a remarkable response, even earning praise from actor R Madhavan. More than 300 passionate volunteers mobilized for a thorough cleanup, successfully restoring the well's historical charm. The event not only cleaned up the site but also educated community members about responsible waste disposal and the significance of safeguarding cultural heritage.
The Asian Development Bank will support Madhya Pradesh's renewable energy projects. This partnership aims to attract significant private investment for clean energy infrastructure. The agreement focuses on structuring and rolling out three new clean energy initiatives. These projects will enhance grid stability and meet peak electricity demands. Madhya Pradesh's renewable energy policy guides these future developments.
Rising sugar prices are pushing packaged food companies towards another round of price hikes or smaller pack sizes. Bikaji Foods is rolling out a 2% price increase across its sweets portfolio, while analysts at Anand Rathi expect 2-5% hikes or shrinkflation in packaged foods as sugar, tea and coffee prices rise.
The Supreme Court has refused to grant a six-month extension to the Aravalli High-Powered Committee and directed it to submit its report on the definition of the Aravalli Hills by November 30.
Modis renewed call to curb gold purchases comes as the government seeks to reduce Indias gold import bill and put some of the estimated 31,000 tonnes of household-held gold into circulation. Gold imports fell each month after a similar appeal in May by nearly 4% in May, 20% in June, 23.7% in July and nearly 30% in August.
Futures grid trading presents a methodical way to navigate the unpredictable terrain of crypto markets. By segmenting price ranges into distinct levels for execution, this automated strategy enables traders to efficiently adjust to market dynamics without needing to constantly monitor activities. Nevertheless, the use of leverage and susceptibility to market disruptions introduce important risks; thus, selecting appropriate parameters and applying diligent risk management is essential for effect
Novartis India will acquire the Minipress and Minipres trademarks and related intellectual property from Pfizer for about 1,250 crore. Minipress XL, used for hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia, generated 228.6 crore in revenue as of July 2026, according to IQVIA data.
Air India's chairman highlighted safety and customer trust as key priorities. Operational excellence and financial sustainability are also crucial for the airline's future. He acknowledged recent challenges and the need for agility in operations. Employees were thanked for their contributions during the transformation phase. The airline aims to be recognized globally for its superior safety standards.
Viktor Frankl quote of the day: The Viktor Frankl quote emphasizes choosing one's attitude in any circumstances. This psychological agency offers inner power even when external liberties are stripped. Modern life conditions people to react instantly to provocations and stress. Frankl's message empowers individuals to control internal responses and reclaim peace. Embracing this truth builds resilience and a purpose-driven life through intentional choices.
The Reserve Bank of India absorbed more than 6 trillion through liquidity withdrawal operations after banking system surplus hit a record 11.6 trillion. Banks parked 2.59 trillion in a 30-day auction, while 3.53 trillion was offered in an overnight auction. The RBI may deploy additional reverse repos, market stabilisation bonds and sell-buy swaps to drain excess liquidity.
The Emmy Awards 2026 weekend saw major wins for Widow's Bay, The Pitt, DTF St Louis and Spider-Noir. Widow's Bay led with eight awards, while DTF St Louis won six. Rob Reiner received a posthumous Emmy for The Bear, while Shailene Woodley and Bad Bunny earned notable victories. Mariska Hargitay also won two awards for her documentary My Mom Jayne.
Maruti Suzuki will increase prices on some vehicles by up to Rs 20,000. This price adjustment will take effect starting this month, September 2026. The company cited sustained increases in input costs as the primary reason. Efforts to mitigate these rising costs have been ongoing for months. However, inflationary pressures necessitate passing on some of these increased costs.
Large microfinance companies received 98.1% of sector funding in Q1. This funding concentration reflects financiers playing safer during uncertain economic cycles. Smaller institutions face tighter liquidity and higher borrowing costs, impacting recovery pace. Banks contributed 80.4% of the Rs 21,407 crore debt funding received. NBFC-MFIs remain the largest micro-credit provider with a 44.3% market share.
Consumer goods companies are planning price hikes due to high sugar costs. Bikaji Foods is already implementing a two percent increase on its sweets. Companies face significant cost increases compared to recent months. This pressure comes after previous price adjustments for commodity inflation. Further price increases or grammage cuts are anticipated in packaged foods.
Quote of the day by Salma Hayek: The Salma Hayek quote on marriage, highlights how serene relationships can lead to anxiety. She pointed out that this feeling often arises from an expectation of chaos during times of tranquility. This phenomenon, known as cherophobia, suggests that happiness may invite misfortune. Her reflections provide reassurance for those who feel uneasy about true bliss in relationships, inspiring a mindset to enjoy untroubled love.
Tewolde Gebremariam has taken charge as the new Chief Executive Officer of Tata Group-owned Air India. He succeeds Campbell Wilson, who was the former leader of the airline. Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran led an employee town hall to welcome the new CEO. Employees gathered to mark the next chapter in Air India's transformation journey. The Tata Group-owned carrier welcomed its new leader during the event.
NIIF has appointed Gauravjit Singh as managing partner and global head of capital formation. Singh, who previously worked at PAG, True North and KKR, will focus on expanding NIIFs global and domestic investor base as the fund steps up capital mobilisation.
India is boosting coal rail shipments to power plants facing critically low fuel stocks. The number of plants with less than three days of coal has risen sharply recently. Heavy rainfall in key coal-rich states has impacted mining and transportation operations. Coal India, the largest miner, reports adequate pithead stock levels.
IIT-Kanpur graduate Kanak Agrawal shared how he and three others left high-paying jobs to build lives on their own terms. After spending four weeks working together in Sri Lanka, he reflected on choosing uncertainty over predictable careers. Agrawal said pursuing a freedom-first life can feel lonely, but having people who understand and support unconventional choices can make the journey feel less difficult.
Maruti Suzuki will increase car prices by up to twenty thousand rupees this September. This follows a previous price adjustment of around thirty thousand rupees last month. The automaker cited sustained increases in input costs as the primary reason. Maruti Suzuki has made efforts to mitigate these rising costs through various measures. However, the company is now passing on a portion of these increased costs to customers.
Malini Sharma, famous for her role in Raaz, has traded in her acting career for a serene life on a farm in Maharashtra. She revealed that her choice to step away from the limelight stemmed from her commitment to motherhood. After taking a break to work behind the scenes, she embraced the unexpected success of Raaz and has since focused on her farmstay, The Slow Local, promoting a simple lifestyle.
Amritsar airport operations were suspended for nearly ninety minutes on Sunday night. Drones were spotted across the airfield, prompting the closure of the runway. Seven flights scheduled to land were diverted to other airports as a precaution. Airport operations resumed after the situation was declared normal around eleven fifteen PM. Police are currently investigating the drone sighting incident.
As officials and ministers from India and the 11 ASEAN member states gather in New Delhi for a two-day meeting, the substance of this partnership lies less in the communiqu than in the research, training and field-level programmes it has steadily built since 1992
The payments ecosystem in India is moving beyond just digitisation, and towards infrastructure that can operate seamlessly across borders, and connected ecosystems. Adyen, a global fintech company with presence in India is positioned to achieve exactly that for Indian merchants who have the ambition to go global and global enterprises expanding in India.
The Sahyadri hills, straddling the borders of Maharashtra and Karnataka, come alive with the stunning display of Karvi and Sonki flowers. The Karvi shrubs uniquely bloom in vivid purple once every eight years, whereas the Sonki flowers blanket the landscape in bright yellow hues during the monsoon. This floral extravaganza not only nourishes local pollinators but also beckons adventure seekers to experience the hills extraordinary natural changes.
The Defence Ministry is considering integrating Russian RVV BD missiles with Su-30 MKI aircraft. These advanced missiles can engage targets at long distances with high speed. This capability boost comes ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India. The Defence Acquisition Council will review this significant proposal today. India is also pursuing indigenous and foreign air-to-air missile upgrades.
The BRICS Summit 2026 will be held in New Delhi from September 11 to 13, with Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan as the main venue. Delhi residents and visitors should expect traffic diversions and temporary restrictions on key roads as security arrangements and movement of foreign dignitaries intensify. Schools will remain closed on September 11, while commuters heading to the airport and railway stations are advised to leave early and use public transport where possible.
Money plants are popular indoor plants associated with prosperity in Vastu Shastra, but their placement is believed to matter. Vastu guidelines generally advise avoiding bathrooms, cluttered entrances, dark corners, direct sunlight, west or south-west directions, and spots near stoves. Beyond Vastu beliefs, proper care also matters, as money plants need indirect light, suitable watering and adequate growing space.
Jaguar Land Rover plans significant job cuts over two years due to rising costs and competition. The UK government will not provide financial support for the carmaker's restructuring efforts. JLR aims to achieve substantial savings and lower its break-even vehicle point. European automakers face increasing pressure from lower-priced Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers. The company is also strengthening its US operations and expanding into premium electric vehicles.
India's gold lending industry is projected to witness approximately 28 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over FY26-28E, driven by the formalisation of credit and low monetization of household holdings, according to a report by Motilal Oswal. The segment has now overtaken personal loans to rank as the second-largest consumer lending category for banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), standing behind home loans.
Vivek Oberoi has opened up about his parenting philosophy and his efforts with wife Priyanka Alva to raise their children, Vivaan Veer and Ameya Nirvana, without entitlement. Speaking in an interview, he said their identity should come from values and contributions rather than privilege. In a conversation, Vivek also stressed that children learn about relationships by watching how their parents treat each other.
Actor R Madhavan, last seen in GDN, shared a story about a father's unwavering support for his son. The father drove two hours to watch his son play, regardless of the outcome. This presence, not performance, builds lasting confidence and resilience in children. Madhavan previously discussed encouraging his son Vedaant to think independently. He believes children learn from experiences and parental support is crucial.
August 2026 marked a historic milestone in India's auto retail market, exceeding all previous records. In a significant shift, alternative fuel vehicles eclipsed petrol sales in the passenger vehicle category. Rural markets had a remarkable performance, outshining urban areas across vehicle segments, while tractor sales held steady amid monsoon effects. Auto dealers anticipate a more intensive demand evaluation in the coming months, from September through November.
Certain beverages can gently support digestive regularity and ease occasional constipation. Caffeinated drinks like coffee and green tea stimulate colon activity for better movement, claims Harvard-trained gut doctor Dr Saurabh Sethi. Kefir berry smoothies offer probiotics and fiber, aiding gut health and bowel frequency. Sorbitol-rich fruit juices, such as prune juice, provide a natural laxative effect. Chia seed water, combined with hydration, helps soften and bulk up stool effectively.
Delhi nutritionist Lovneet Batra emphasizes daily habits over quick fixes for health. Nourishing the body with whole foods provides essential nutrients for overall well-being. Prioritizing deep, restorative sleep supports immune function and metabolic health. Walking daily helps muscles use glucose and manage blood sugar levels. Building muscle and exercising support strength, longevity, and mental health.
A Bengaluru woman earning Rs 26 lakh annually is considering whether to buy a home or continue renting for Rs 27,000 a month. Amit Arora shared that she has Rs 24.5 lakh across savings, mutual funds and PF, with no existing loans. However, supporting her parents and the burden of a large EMI have made her consider waiting two to three years.
Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week Abhinav Kaul explains why funds sit on cash, what it costs you, and when it should worry you.
India's Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced a groundbreaking Public Insurance Registry aimed at streamlining the management of policyholder data. This innovative Digital Public Infrastructure intends to link all parties within the insurance ecosystem, fostering improved operations. Policyholders will enjoy more efficient monitoring of their policies and expedited claims handling, while insurers can utilize standardized data for enhanced risk evaluation
Gen Z is not rejecting homeownership. It is becoming more deliberate about the financial equation behind it. For this generation, a sensible purchase is one where the EMI fits comfortably alongside savings, investments and other financial goals.
Welcome to TrendMap, your quick guide to the performance of different investment segments. In this edition, we present a 10-year performance tracker of various asset classes. The annual returns are ranked across multiple asset classes, including equity, debt, and precious metals. This map shows that no single asset class reigns supreme. Hence, diversification helps. By Sameer Bhardwaj.
For the longest time, we had a defined benefit plan. Even today, we have around us many retired government and public sector employees (and their widows and dependent children as applicable) earning a lifetime inflation-adjusted monthly pension that is way beyond their contributions during their earning years.
High-frequency data reveals that India's economy is on an upward trajectory, exhibiting robust growth. An executive highlights vibrant vehicle sales and soaring credit demand. Additionally, corporate earnings show positive trends, with notable increases in capital expenditure. However, the nation is still on the path to fully recovering from the effects of COVID, emphasising the necessity for ongoing reforms to achieve sustainable growth and minimise economic gaps.
The contributions of homemakers to household management have substantial economic significance that is now being acknowledged by life insurance policies. By considering family finances and the income of a spouse, insurers are able to offer tailored coverage for homemakers. Notably, the premiums for these term plans rival those for income-earning individuals, highlighting the importance of thoroughly understanding the specifics of life cover, whether individual or joint.
Non-resident Indians should note that leaving the UK doesn't automatically terminate tax residency. Retaining connections might keep your tax status intact even after relocating. Income and capital gains sourced from the UK could still be liable for UK tax post-departure. Additionally, Indian tax residents are required to report foreign assets and income. Seeking professional advice is essential for a smooth financial adjustment when returning to India.

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