The Economic Times

America's move to blockade the Strait of Hormuz threatens Asia's energy-dependent nations. This action could lead to higher oil prices and impact global economic growth. Asian countries are seeking alternative energy sources and implementing measures to manage the situation. The situation's impact on global markets remains uncertain.

The US Federal Trade Commission is in talks with major advertising firms. The discussions aim to settle a probe into potential antitrust law violations. Companies like Dentsu, Publicis, and WPP may agree not to shift ad budgets based on political content. Individual advertisers can still make their own site choices. Talks are ongoing and a deal is not guaranteed.

Global oil markets are watching US President Donald Trump's threat to blockade the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows failed talks with Iran and has already caused oil prices to jump. The waterway is vital for global supply. Iran's reaction to this escalation is key. Further attacks on oil facilities could create a full-blown emergency.

Yesterday IPL Match RCB vs MI: Royal Challengers Bangalore registered a dominant win, beating Mumbai by 18 runs in style. Virat Kohli smashed a half-century in 38 balls. In the IPL 2026 points table, Rajasthan Royals continue to lead, while Punjab Kings hold second place. The RCB has solidified their third position in the IPL 2026 standings.

President Trump announced a U.S. naval blockade of ships entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, targeting vessels paying tolls to Iran. Experts warn this open-ended military endeavor could trigger retaliation from Tehran and strain the fragile ceasefire, potentially leading to dangerous escalation.

Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman shares a powerful message about success. He states that quitting is the only sure way to fail. His advice stresses unwavering commitment and enduring challenges. The actor's own journey, from early performances to global stardom, exemplifies this dedication. Read on to know more about it.

If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, heres a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 98th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains how this special category of bonds work.

Indian refiners are boosting Russian crude oil imports. This surge is driven by supply disruptions in the Middle East and a reduced threat of US sanctions. Executives expect these high purchase levels to continue for the remainder of the year. India is prioritizing securing its energy needs amidst global market volatility.

The annual returns are ranked for 9 key NSE Sector indices. Cyclicals dominate the decade, driven by capex, commodities, and recovery cycles. By Sameer Bhardwaj.

Acquired by Cyrus Poonawalla, one of Indias most prominent industrialists, this transaction reflects a shift in which price sensitivity declines and narrative, legacy, and positioning take precedence.

Travel insurance faces challenges due to global conflicts and increased flight costs. Many insurers are suspending coverage for affected regions. Leisure travel to West Asia and Europe is down. However, senior citizens visiting children in the US are proceeding with travel plans. Pre-existing condition coverage remains a key concern for elderly travelers.

Whether in trust deeds, corporate agreements or commercial contracts, even a single clause drafted without sufficient precision can significantly alter the legal consequences of an arrangement. in matters of taxation, precision in drafting is not merely good practice but an essential safeguard.

Parents buy maternity cover for delivery, but the bigger financial risk is complications after birth.

In India, property carries both emotional and financial weight. As Indian wealth increases, the shift has to be from accumulation to intentional transfer. Real estate will sit at the centre of that journey

For global diversification, experts recommend a diversified, disciplined approach across regions.

The Iran war will also likely hit semiconductor output, amid disruptions in the shipments of key inputs for chip manufacturing like helium, sulfur and petrochemical products, according to the ADB. Tourism-dependent economies will likewise feel the drag after the war upended global travel, it added.

Sankaran Naren explains why markets are more attractive but unlikely to deliver outsized returns and shares his macro-driven approach with Sanket Dhanorkar.

FY26 left your equity portfolio bruised. As FY27 begins, heres how to heal it.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday said the U.S. Navy would begin a blockade of ships linked to Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz after ceasefire talks with Iran in Pakistan failed. The U.S. Central Command said the blockade would start Monday but still allow vessels not heading to Iranian ports to pass through the route.

Inventurus Knowledge Solutions (IKS), backed by the family of late investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, is in advanced talks to acquire Nasdaq-listed TruBridge for about $600 million. If completed, this would be IKSs largest acquisition and strengthen its position in healthcare technology and revenue cycle management in the US. A formal announcement is expected soon.

Asha Bhosle, the cherished melody of Indian cinema, has passed away in Mumbai, leaving behind a legacy that echoes through time. For over seventy years, her signature voice adorned numerous films, captivating audiences worldwide. Pay tribute to her monumental influence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and various Bollywood luminaries have expressed their heartfelt condolences.

Quote of the day by Flip Wilson highlights the link between humor and financial responsibility. The famous line about missing car payments reflects how modern financial systems track people closely. This explainer covers the quote meaning, relevance in daily life, lessons about money and responsibility, and the life story and career journey of Flip Wilson, whose comedy shaped television history and popular culture.

India's top business leaders and economic minds will gather for the 26th Economic Times Awards for Corporate Excellence. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be the chief guest. The event will celebrate champions who excelled despite global challenges. N Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, will also be honored as Business Reformer of the Year.

Senecas quote of the day highlights a simple but powerful Stoic idea about happiness. He suggests that true peace of mind is only possible when a person stops being controlled by two things, the fear of an uncertain future and the emotional weight of past memories. According to him, both of these mental patterns pull attention away from the present moment and create unnecessary suffering.

Turkish proverb of the day explains the meaning of Measure a thousand times and cut once and shows how planning, patience, and careful review help people avoid mistakes. The proverb highlights lessons from carpentry and tailoring and connects them to career decisions, financial planning, and relationships. It explores why preparation supports success, saves time, prevents regret, and remains relevant in modern life where quick decisions often lead to long-term consequences.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries has received a significant legal victory. The Bombay High Court has stopped Meghmani Lifesciences from using its product mark 'Esiraft'. This decision comes after Sun Pharma alleged trademark infringement and passing off rights concerning its brand 'Raciraft'. The court found the marks visually and phonetically similar, likely to cause confusion among consumers.

India's music streaming sector is seeing strong growth. Paid subscribers have increased significantly and are expected to rise further. Affordable plans, telecom bundles, and better payment systems are boosting numbers. Streamers are also focusing on regional content and superior audio quality. Live events are seen as a future differentiator.

The ongoing turmoil in West Asia is sending ripples through Punjab's industrial landscape. Manufacturers of textiles, bicycles, and automotive components are grappling with surging production costs and shipment delays. In response, businesses are exploring alternative fuel sources while trying to absorb or mitigate rising expenses.

The National Company Law Tribunal has approved the merger of Nirmal Lifestyle Realty with Oberoi Realty. This move will simplify Oberoi Realty's group structure and enhance operational efficiencies. Nirmal Lifestyle Realty will be dissolved without winding up. The amalgamation aims to optimize resource utilization and provide a clearer strategic roadmap.

Aavas Financiers is set for a leadership change. Managing Director Sachinder Bhinder will step down following promoter dissatisfaction. Manu Singh, currently heading home loans at Kotak Mahindra Bank, is expected to become the new CEO. This transition follows CVC Capital Partners' acquisition of control and aims to boost the company's growth trajectory.

The Reserve Bank of India is proposing new rules for classifying large financial companies. State-owned firms like Power Finance Corp and REC may now be considered Upper-Layer NBFCs. This change aims for clearer regulations based on asset size. The RBI's proposal could bring more entities under stricter oversight.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has dismissed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's allegations regarding incentives for paddy cultivation. Sitharaman stated that the Union government's communication was a suggestion to states to align bonus policies with national priorities. The aim was to encourage crop diversification. The decision on state bonuses remains with state governments.

Cheng Li-wun, the head of the Kuomingtang, and Chinas President Xi Jinping held a high-profile meeting Friday during which they called for peace, without offering specifics. China claims the island as part of its territory and hasn't ruled out the use of force to annex it.

The ongoing turmoil in West Asia casts a shadow over India's revenue streams. Soaring commodity prices may squeeze the profitability of state-run enterprises, which could derail the anticipated 75,000 crore dividend. With petroleum sectors particularly at risk, the government is alert to fluctuations in the situation.

Coal India Limited is absorbing increased input costs to protect consumers from higher coal prices. Expenses for explosives and industrial diesel have risen sharply. The company is also compensating contractors for higher diesel expenses. India's coal imports have dropped due to high domestic stockpiles and firm seaborne prices. This trend is expected to continue.

Non-banking finance companies anticipate strong growth in the upcoming quarter. However, rising funding costs may limit profit margins. Analysts are closely monitoring asset quality for potential stress in the coming months. The impact of global events on consumer demand and specific sectors is a key concern. NBFCs are preparing for these challenges.

Officials and experts attribute this trend to the country having to compete with Mexico, Poland, and Vietnam, a preferred part of investors' nearshoring and friendshoring policies after the Covid pandemic, and the US cornering a large share of tech-related investments.

A significant increase in diesel export tax is set to align prices for state-run oil companies and private fuel sellers. This move could end a prolonged dispute over domestic fuel supply agreements. State-run firms typically buy diesel from private refiners and some state-run ones.

Homebuyers' insolvency cases against real estate firms will now be limited to the specific project facing default. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal has ruled that extending these proceedings to other projects of the company is not beneficial for homebuyers or other stakeholders. This decision ensures that unrelated projects are protected.

India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar met UAE leaders to deepen ties. He thanked the UAE President for supporting the Indian community during regional conflict. Discussions focused on strengthening the strategic partnership. The visit occurred amidst changing regional dynamics and global supply chain issues. India values its relationship with the UAE.

Telecom operations in India are facing significant challenges. The ongoing conflict in West Asia is disrupting tower connectivity and increasing costs for imported equipment. Restrictions on diesel sales are hindering essential refuelling for telecom towers. Power outages are also a concern, increasing reliance on diesel generators. Supply chains for tower manufacturing are affected, potentially delaying network expansion.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has accused the Union government of betraying South India. He claims the Centre sought to reduce Tamil Nadu's representation in Parliament. Stalin stated this move was linked to women's reservation and penalizing states with successful population control. He asserted that democratic forces nationwide will oppose this proposal.

The Santa Marta conference has been described as a meeting of the coalition of doers, comprising countries and stakeholders committed to shifting away from fossil fuels. It will bring together members of existing alliances such as the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance, and the Powering Past Coal Alliance.

Companies are reducing product choices to manage rising costs. This strategy focuses on popular, profitable items. Smartphone and TV makers are cutting model numbers. FMCG firms are also streamlining packaging. This aims to improve efficiency and maintain competitiveness amid global supply challenges and increased component prices. The trend is expected to continue.

India and the US have reached a significant agreement on coproduction of fighter jet engines. GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd have concluded technical discussions for F414 engines. This paves the way for a contract later this year. The deal will boost the Indian Air Force's fleet strength. It also includes technology transfer for advanced engines.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has raised concerns about a potential delimitation exercise by the Central government. She claims parts of West Bengal may be merged with Bihar or Odisha. Banerjee also alleged a conspiracy involving voter list manipulation and attempts to divide her party. She urged voters to remain alert during the upcoming assembly polls.

India's broadcast sector is set for a major regulatory overhaul. TRAI is planning a broad review of pricing, distribution, and platform rules. This comes after the New Tariff Order faced criticism for not ensuring affordability and transparency. The move aims to address structural concerns and adapt to changing consumer habits and competition from streaming services.

A new initiative, Project Him Sarovar, is set to secure water for Ladakh. The project will build storage ponds to collect melting snow and glacial water. These ponds will support irrigation and rural water needs. The initiative also aims to develop a local model for climate-resilient water management. This will help boost local livelihoods and agriculture in the region.

A new weight-loss drug, retatrutide, is generating excitement. This investigational medicine targets three hormone receptors, offering a potential breakthrough for diabetes and obesity. Experts believe it could also contribute to longevity goals. Clinical trials show significant weight loss. Retatrutide's unique triple-action mechanism sets it apart from existing treatments, promising a new era in metabolic health management.