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The Economic Times

Economy / The Economic Times

Iraq opens oil exports beyond Hormuz after months of war, eyes ship-to-ship route off Oman

Iraq now allows crude oil collection outside the Persian Gulf for buyers. This move comes as exports continue through the Strait of Hormuz despite disruptions. Iraq's state oil marketer is offering specific crude grades via ship-to-ship transfer. This shift follows previous steep discounts offered to entice buyers. The country aims for higher economic benefits through secure transport routes.

28 Aug 2026 9:07 am
Amid Yash's Toxic trolling, director Geetu Mohandas' old 'I don't stick to script' video goes viral. Netizens react

An old video of Geetu Mohandas discussing her filmmaking process has resurfaced online. This clip has drawn considerable attention amid discussions about Yash's new film Toxic. Netizens are connecting her comments about script changes to criticisms of the movie. Some viewers defend her approach. Toxic has achieved a strong commercial opening despite mixed critical reviews.

28 Aug 2026 8:23 am
Friday OTT releases of the week: Alpha to Babita Singh Reporting to The Whisper Man, new movies and shows on Netflix, JioHotstar, Prime Video and ZEE5

With Alpha, The Whisper Man, Bandar and Babita Singh Reporting offering thrillers and crime dramas, while Dark Matter Season 2, Part-Timers, Anbe Diana and Chumbak explore sci-fi, friendship, romance and family relationships, this weeks OTT lineup has enough variety to keep weekend viewers busy.

28 Aug 2026 7:46 am
Those who work by the clock are of no good use: Delhi CA-turned founder admits how a young CFA proved him wrong by working only 9 hours

Delhi-based founder and CA Kanan Bahl shared how a young CFA changed his views on long working hours. She refused to work beyond 6:30 pm but remained highly focused, avoided unnecessary breaks and office banter, and rarely spoke unless work-related. Bahl said she accomplished more in nine hours than many employees working 13-hour days. He concluded that productivity depends more on focus and discipline than clocking long hours.

28 Aug 2026 7:46 am
Barclays targets Indias billionaires as private banking competition intensifies

Barclays is targeting Indias wealthiest founders and business owners as it seeks to expand its private banking business amid intensifying competition. The lender is leveraging its international network and capital-markets expertise to serve ultra-rich Indians with global assets, aiming for double-digit growth and deeper relationships with the countrys top promoters.

28 Aug 2026 7:28 am
Toxic box office collection: Yashs Kannada gangster movie sees sharp drop on Day 2, fails to match Dhurandhar 2 craze

Yash's gangster drama Toxic opened strongly, crossing Rs 100 crore on its first day. The film experienced a major drop on its second day. Its Day 2 performance lags behind recent pan-India blockbusters like Dhurandhar 2 and Pushpa 2. The Hindi market led the Day 2 collection, while Kannada showed higher occupancy. Read on to know how much Yash's movie earned on day 2.

28 Aug 2026 7:03 am
Ankur Warikoo and his sister played together every day for 15 years; now they talk twice a month. He shares why siblings sometimes drift apart

Ankur Warikoo reflected on how he went from playing with his sister every day for 15 years to speaking with her once or twice a month. He said college, the US, relationships, marriage and separate homes gradually created distance. Warikoo believes siblings are often taken for granted because we assume they will always be there. His advice: send a simple Hey today.

28 Aug 2026 6:59 am
Trump administration weighs US ownership stake in Venezuelas vast oil reserves: Report

The Trump administration is discussing a potential US ownership stake in Venezuelas oil industry, Axios reported, covering more than a dozen fields holding about 90 billion barrels of proven reserves. The proposal could bring private US companies into developing the assets, increase Venezuelan oil revenues and significantly expand US access to crude.

28 Aug 2026 6:09 am
HDFC Bank, LIC Housing Finance to contest Zee resolution

HDFC Bank and LIC Housing Finance will challenge the NCLT ruling on the Zee Group debt settlement. The approved plan includes a small payment from Subhash Chandra as guarantor. Several lenders had opposed this repayment plan, which was approved by the majority. Government officials clarified Chandra was a guarantor, not the principal borrower.

28 Aug 2026 6:00 am
SBI sees corporate loan pipeline at Rs 5 lakh crore: CS Setty, SBI, Chairman

The State Bank of India forecasts a significant surge in corporate loan prospects, aiming for 5 lakh crore as companies pivot towards investments in renewable energy and battery storage solutions. SBI remains steadfast in its goal to secure $10 billion through FCNR(B) deposits while confidently targeting a 14-15% growth in credit. With robust capital buffers, banks are better positioned to navigate future economic fluctuations.

28 Aug 2026 6:00 am
Food packets may have to spill the beans

India's food regulator is considering new front-of-pack nutrition labelling for packaged foods. This system would highlight excessive fat, salt, or sugar content on food packages. The regulator is also exploring varied assessment thresholds based on typical serving sizes. This move follows Supreme Court scrutiny over the prolonged delay in implementing such standards. Industry representatives support clear, science-based nutrition information for consumers.

28 Aug 2026 5:30 am
Yatharth Hospitals draws interest from Aster, Advent as healthcare consolidation heats up

Aster DM Quality Care is negotiating to acquire a controlling stake in Yatharth Hospitals. This potential acquisition aims to consolidate the hospital sector amid private equity interest. Yatharth Hospitals' stock has seen a significant rise in anticipation of a potential trade. The deal would trigger an open offer for additional shares, expanding the acquirer's ownership. This move would significantly strengthen Aster DM Quality Care's presence in northern India.

28 Aug 2026 5:30 am
Vodafone Idea plans to repay 49,000 crore spectrum dues in 3 years

Vodafone Idea plans to pay nearly 49,000 crore in spectrum dues over the next three years, with payments of about 7,000 crore in FY27, 15,000 crore in FY28 and 27,000 crore in FY29. The telco expects to fund these through higher EBITDA, internal cash generation and fresh bank funding, while also pursuing a 45,000-crore network expansion plan.

28 Aug 2026 5:00 am
Corporate employee lands a dishwashing job after getting laid off, reveals he isnt even doing it for the money: I want to feel'

A man found himself losing his dream job within moments, and after months of trying to be gainfully employed and failing, he ended up with a less than perfect job washing dishes that paid less than $11 an hour. Taking to Reddit, the despondent Reddit user shared his story.

28 Aug 2026 1:45 am
Hindalco Industries expands specialty Alumina portfolio

Hindalco Industries commissioned a new facility for specialty alumina in Belagavi. This new plant will produce flame-retardant products for various safety applications. The company is also planning several more specialty alumina facilities soon. These expansions will significantly increase Hindalco's total specialty alumina capacity.

28 Aug 2026 1:09 am
Demand for vaccines surges as H1N1, other influenza cases see a sharp rise

Demand for flu vaccines has significantly increased this year. At-home vaccination services are seeing a substantial rise in bookings. Rapid testing requests are also growing from various Indian cities. This surge is driven by elevated viral spread and increased awareness. Experts recommend annual vaccinations and usual protective measures.

28 Aug 2026 1:05 am
NTPC plans to treble capacity to 244GW by 2037, invest 16.86 lakh crore

NTPC plans to nearly triple its power generation capacity by 2037. The company will invest significantly in renewable and nuclear power expansion. This investment will also cover battery and pumped storage systems. NTPC aims to contribute substantially to the nation's nuclear energy target.

28 Aug 2026 1:01 am
Banks, companies better positioned to weather next downturn: CS Setty, SBI, Chairman

The chairman of the State Bank of India underscores the nation's economic resilience, emphasizing the bank's robust standing in the financial sector. With a growth forecast of 7.5% and inflation consistent with RBI predictions, SBI is gearing up for a remarkable 14-15% rise in credit, driven by retail and SME sectors. The bank is also focusing on enhancing its fee income while aiming for a 1% return on assets.

28 Aug 2026 1:00 am
ACME Solar raises Rs 1,571 crore for 300 MW Rajasthan power project

ACME Solar Holdings announced 1,571 crore project funding from IIFCL. This financing will develop ACME Renewtech Sixth's 300 MW assured peak power project. The company has now secured 10,976 crore in financing this fiscal year. The project's power purchase agreement is with Solar Energy Corporation of India. This agreement is for twenty-five years at a tariff of 6.28 per unit.

28 Aug 2026 1:00 am
7 Baby Names From Ancient Rome That Sound Majestic And Have Pop Culture Significance

7 Baby Names From Ancient Rome That Sound Majestic And Have Pop Culture Significance

28 Aug 2026 1:00 am
India needs Rs 30 lakh crore to hit 500 GW clean-energy target: Pralhad Joshi

India needs over 30 lakh crore investment for its 500 GW non-fossil fuel target. Domestic financial institutions and capital markets will fund much of this significant green-energy expansion. The nation has already surpassed 300 GW of installed non-fossil fuel capacity. Renewable energy capacity grew substantially in the first four months of FY27. Maharashtra is urged to showcase projects and attract global developers at BRESE 2026.

28 Aug 2026 12:56 am
HDFC Bank's CEO call gains urgency as Sashidhar Jagdishan's term nears end

The timeline stands in contrast to Jagdishan's previous reappointment. HDFC Bank's board had recommended a fresh three-year term for him on March 4, 2023, nearly eight months before his first tenure was due to expire. The Reserve Bank of India approved the appointment in September that year.

28 Aug 2026 12:55 am
Gaana, Fenix360 team up to create direct artist-fan ecosystem

Gaana and Fenix360 have partnered to launch a new artist-fan ecosystem. This integration combines discovery, engagement, and monetization within the Gaana app. Artists can now build digital storefronts and offer merchandise directly to fans. The platform also enables ticket sales and paid live streams for artists. This new ecosystem aims to foster stronger artist-audience connections and revenue streams.

28 Aug 2026 12:48 am
In Graphics: Kitchen basket inflation is back

Edible oils and eggs are also seeing higher prices. Demand for most commodities is elevated amid the onset of the festival season, even as poor monsoon rainfall and the second-order effects of the West Asia crisis continue to add pressure.

28 Aug 2026 12:45 am
'Croma on turnaround path as losses narrow, quality of growth gets better': CEO

Infiniti Retail, Croma's operator, is on a strong turnaround path, significantly reducing losses. The company achieved operational profitability in FY26, swinging to a profit of 159 crore. Total income grew thirteen percent to 21,784 crore, with sales growth nearly doubling. Infiniti Retail closed thirty-five unviable stores and plans to add forty-five new outlets. Continuous cost optimization is now a habit in the business.

28 Aug 2026 12:43 am
Singapore Airlines' board to retain final say on further Air India investment

Singapore Airlines board will retain the final decision on any further investment in loss-making Air India, chairman Peter Seah told shareholders. He said the board is closely reviewing the investment and would approve additional funding only as circumstances warrant.

28 Aug 2026 12:38 am
India, Canada set $70 billion trade target, widen economic partnership

India and Canada aim to deepen economic ties, expanding beyond goods and services. They plan to scale up bilateral trade to seventy billion dollars annually by 2030. Discussions focused on investment, financial sector cooperation, and critical minerals. Canadian investors were urged to leverage India's growing economy and talent. Both nations seek to build more resilient and inclusive economies together.

28 Aug 2026 12:29 am
Faster KYC, nods key to boosting FDI flows: Piyush Goyal

The minister was speaking at the end of his official visit to Japan, where he held a series of high-level engagements aimed at accelerating Japanese investment in India, strengthening industrial partnerships and expanding bilateral economic cooperation across emerging and strategic sectors. Our focus is on process and procedures... there are very few sectors where FDI is restricted but we are open to ideas whatever industry demands... during these engagements here, new ideas have come up, Goyal

28 Aug 2026 12:29 am
Centre allows imported coal in Rs 37,500-crore gasification scheme

The government permits imported coal for gasification projects under a new scheme. This initiative aims to convert coal into valuable chemicals and fuels. Developers will arrange their own fuel supply, with no domestic coal guarantee provided. Foreign companies can bid but must establish a local entity if selected. The scheme offers financial support for plant and machinery costs.

28 Aug 2026 12:24 am
In 1960, two dogs orbited Earth on Sputnik 5. A year later, one of their puppies reached the White House as a surprise gift for US first lady Jacqueline Kennedy

Two Soviet dogs, Belka and Strelka, orbited Earth and returned safely. Strelka later had puppies, and one was gifted to the Kennedys. This puppy, Pushinka, arrived at the White House as a surprise gift. Pushinka and a Kennedy dog named Charlie had four puppies together. These pupniks symbolized a small connection between two rival superpowers.

28 Aug 2026 12:24 am
Onion prices likely to stay firm till November despite Centres Rs 35/kg push

Onion prices will likely stay firm until November despite government sales. Inferior quality of stored onions and delayed fresh crop arrival are key factors. Global onion shortages are also supporting domestic price stability. The government's price control measures follow a significant wholesale price increase. The Kanda Express transports onions from Maharashtra to major cities.

28 Aug 2026 12:18 am
S&P retains India rating, keeps outlook stable on economic momentum

Last year, S&P, the biggest of the global ratings firms, had raised its rating on India to 'BBB' from 'BBB-' after 18 years, citing the country's economic resilience and sustained fiscal consolidation. However, Fitch has retained its sovereign rating on India at BBB- since 2006, while Moody's has retained the same lowest investment grade of 'Baa3' since 2020. As for short-term India credit rating, S&P has maintained it at A-2, indicating that the country's capacity to meet financial commitments

28 Aug 2026 12:15 am
Pernod Ricard weighs options for India IPO, kicks off legal process

Pernod Ricard has confirmed that its board is evaluating a potential IPO of its Indian operations and has begun legal preparations to keep the option open. CEO Alexandre Ricard said the decision is still under discussion and will depend on the strategic rationale and potential shareholder value.

28 Aug 2026 12:15 am
Banks, FIU-IND work on sharper framework to flag money mule accounts

Banks are enhancing suspicious transaction reporting for money mule accounts. They aim for better analysis and pattern identification by the principal officer. Artificial intelligence and machine learning tools are now being deployed. This initiative follows parliamentary committee recommendations for accountability. The goal is to recover funds and prevent financial system misuse.

28 Aug 2026 12:10 am
EIH dispute: Oberoi Hotels told to deposit late chief's dividend with Delhi HC in four weeks

Anastasia Oberoi, daughter of late hotelier PRS Oberoi and Mirjana Jojic Oberoi, had sought to restrain Oberoi Hotels from distributing the final dividend declared in its annual general meeting (AGM) held on September 26 last year, or alternatively sought a direction that the dividend so declared be placed in a separate interest-bearing account in the registry of the HC.

27 Aug 2026 11:47 pm
Oyo parent Prisms FY26 profit jumps over fourfold to Rs 994 crore

Oyo parent Prism reported a substantial profit increase for fiscal 2026. Consolidated revenue from operations also saw a significant rise of fifty percent. Ebitda more than doubled, driven by higher business volumes and acquisitions. Gross booking value increased substantially, reflecting strong market performance. The company is now considering a large initial public offering.

27 Aug 2026 11:33 pm
BPCL to get first Iraqi crude cargo as Hormuz disruption persists

Bharat Petroleum Corporation will soon receive its first Iraqi crude oil shipment. This move aims to secure supplies while facing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The company is also open to purchasing more Gulf crude on a free-on-board basis. BPCL plans a ship-to-ship transfer of the Iraqi cargo near Fujairah. This diversification strategy helps maintain essential fuel supplies for the nation.

27 Aug 2026 11:30 pm
Mahindra Last Mile Mobility planning to double capacity, scouting for new factory site

Mahindra Last Mile Mobility is considering doubling its annual production capacity to meet rising demand for electric three-wheelers. The Mahindra & Mahindra subsidiary currently has capacity to produce 300,000 vehicles a year across plants in Telangana, Karnataka and Uttarakhand.

27 Aug 2026 11:09 pm
Quote of the Day by Walt Disney: The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique A life lesson on self-acceptance

Walt Disneys powerful message centers around the importance of self-acceptance and embracing ones individuality. He believed that loving oneself fosters uniqueness, an essential trait in a world full of comparisons. Disneys own journey exemplified how creativity and bold, individual choices can lead to success. His enduring legacy teaches us that our differences can be valuable assets, fueling both personal growth and meaningful contributions to society.

27 Aug 2026 11:06 pm
HDFC Bank staff help prevent Rs 1.12-crore 'digital arrest' fraud

HDFC Bank employees took swift action to block a potential digital scam targeting elderly clients. An attentive staff member noticed an anxious couple trying to send a hefty amount of money while on a video call with someone unknown. Reacting promptly, the bank team identified the suspicious activity and successfully protected the seniors from losing Rs 1.12 crore, showcasing their commitment to customer safety.

27 Aug 2026 11:06 pm
An 18-year-old Washington student turned plant waste into a pollution-fighting sponge. Tests showed it removed up to 80% of chemical killing Salmon

A talented eighteen-year-old student has developed groundbreaking biodegradable filters using jute waste fibers. These remarkable sponges efficiently extract toxic substances from road runoff, achieving an impressive eighty percent reduction in pollutants as confirmed by laboratory analysis. This eco-friendly innovation demands far less energy and financial investment to manufacture, garnering the young inventor significant recognition at a prestigious competition.

27 Aug 2026 10:58 pm
Indian NASA worker completed 3-year BSc in Maths degree in one year, went to University of Berkeley, was hailed as Genius of Genius' before becoming a teacher at IIT. Then he lost everything: Was seen near garbage'

Vashishtha Narayan Singhs life story seems like someone straight from a film. It began with a lot of promise, as the late academic was hailed as a child prodigy, and he went on to complete his three-year mathematics course in just one year and later went to the University of Berkeley for further studies. But his bright career was cut short by schizophrenia.

27 Aug 2026 10:47 pm
Closer India-Canada economic cooperation gains importance amid global uncertainty: Sitharaman

India and Canada are strengthening economic ties amid global uncertainty. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the need for deeper partnerships. Discussions focused on investment, finance, and regulatory cooperation between the nations. Both countries explored avenues for financial sector collaboration and critical minerals. This dialogue aims to build resilient and sustainable economies for both nations.

27 Aug 2026 10:40 pm