The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Google co-founder Larry Page offers a powerful message about balancing dreams with action. His words highlight the need to move from imagination to execution. Page's own journey at Google, from its inception to leading Alphabet Inc., showcases a career built on innovation and practical steps. This perspective encourages grounded action for real-world impact.
Tamil Nadu cylinder burst: One dead and at least 18 injured after a helium cylinder exploded during the Thenpennai River Festival in Manalurpettai in the Kallakurichi district, as per District Collector of Tiruvannamalai, K Tharpagaraj.
Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu highlighted declining birth rates in China and India, noting Tamil Nadu's steeper fall. He moved to rural India to be near families raising children, considering it a life blessing. Reactions debated the implications of low birth rates, with some emphasizing productivity and community over numbers.
Authorities said the blaze, which broke out around 10:00 p.m. on January 17, was brought under control after nearly 34 hours. However, rescue and recovery operations are still underway amid fears of further collapse. Search teams, supported by the Army, Rangers and civil administration, are carrying out a cautious operation while engineers assess the damaged structure.
Bondi Beach terror attack: The December 14 attack at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people was carried out by individuals who had hate in their hearts and guns in their hands, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said as he introduced the new laws.
Croma iPhone 17 discount: During the Croma Republic Day sale, Apple iPhone 17 and iPhone 15 are seeing a sharp price cut. Originally priced at 82,900, Apples latest iPhone is now available at an effective price of 47,990 through exchange and bank offers. Similarly, you can get iPhone 15 at Rs 31,990. Discounts and offers are also available for Samsung S25 series, electronics, MacBook Air M4 and more.
Iran violence : The agency has been accurate in previous rounds of unrest in Iran and relies on a network of activists on the ground to confirm each death. It fears many more may have been killed.
A video allegedly showing Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao in a compromising position with women has gone viral. Rao has denied the authenticity of the videos, calling them fabricated. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered an investigation, stating that no one is above the law.
CA Nitin Kaushik reveals true wealth is unseen, offering freedom, not applause. He argues ego, not taxes or inflation, drains finances. Displaying wealth is less important than building security. Saving is income minus ego. Knowing your 'Enough Number' is key. Control over time is the real luxury. Financial success stems from discipline and self-awareness, prioritizing peace over prestige.
Brooklyn Beckham has recently broken his silence on family rifts. He claims private matters were leaked to the press. Brooklyn alleges his parents interfered in his marriage to Nicola Peltz. He detailed the wedding day upsets and pressure before the ceremony. Brooklyn states he is not seeking reconciliation and wants peace. Read on!
Cement consumption has hit a peak. China, the largest producer, is seeing its construction boom end. Output has fallen significantly and is expected to decline further. This drop in demand is good news for the environment. Efforts to reduce cement's carbon footprint have been slow. A decline in consumption offers the best chance to clean up this industry.
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd has submitted a non-binding offer to acquire US-based Organon for an all-cash deal, securing $10-14 billion in acquisition financing. This move marks Sun Pharma's boldest global bet, aiming to bolster its presence in women's health biopharma and biosimilars. The acquisition, if successful, would be the largest by an Indian pharmaceutical company.
Brooklyn Beckham finally reveals real reason of feud with family and parents David and Victoria after months of silence. Brooklyn says his parents damaged his marriage, controlled press stories, and caused anxiety. He says he does not want reconciliation and wants privacy with Nicola Peltz Beckham.
Who is Don Lemon and what is Ku Klux Klan Act? This explainer details the 1871 law, its purpose, and how it surfaced after claims that Don Lemon faced scrutiny following an anti-ICE protest inside a church in Minnesota.
A colossal Wyoming ranch, larger than Rhode Island, has been acquired by local rancher Chris Robinson, ending speculation about foreign buyers. Robinson, CEO of Ensign Group, plans to integrate the massive Pathfinder Ranches into his existing operations, focusing on livestock growth and conservation. This significant land deal reunites historically connected properties, bolstering America's shrinking cattle herd.
Trump Greenland plan pushback: Americans largely reject President Donald Trump's ambition for Greenland. New polls reveal strong opposition to military action or purchasing the territory. European nations warn of damage to ties over tariff threats. Denmark disputes security concerns cited by the US. The situation highlights growing international and domestic resistance to Trump's assertive approach.
Patients affected by the First Choice Dental data breach can get cash and free credit monitoring. Those with losses may receive up to $6,000, while others get $50. Claims must be submitted by January 28, 2026. The settlement also highlights other data breach payouts, like AT&T and Papaya Gaming, giving customers protection and compensation for personal data exposure.
Global trade is reorganizing into regional blocs, not collapsing. Companies must build capacity to navigate multiple futures as geopolitics increasingly shapes markets. India Inc. shows resilience due to strong domestic demand. Leaders need to embed geopolitical insight into strategy for growth and risk management in this complex new baseline.
India is moving to curb mineral lease hoarding and press states to speed up approvals as it prepares a new law to replace the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. The overhaul aims to boost domestic mineral output and reduce import dependence.
As Indian banks grapple with dwindling low-cost CASA deposits, a growing number of savers are shifting their money into market-driven investments seeking higher returns. This shift compels banks to depend increasingly on pricier short-term borrowing methods, such as Certificates of Deposit, to sustain their lending activities.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors a leader whose life was marked by profound dedication to equality and justice. Lesser-known facts reveal his academic brilliance, numerous arrests for civil disobedience, and a near-fatal assassination attempt years before his death. A civil trial later concluded his assassination was a conspiracy, yet his enduring legacy is rooted in peace and nonviolence.
Google-owned Gemini has secured a three-year sponsorship deal with the Indian Premier League (IPL) worth an estimated Rs 270 crore. This significant partnership highlights the growing influence of artificial intelligence platforms in Indian cricket, following ChatGPT's sponsorship of the Women's Premier League.
Banks are set to issue more corporate bonds this quarter. This move aims to cover the difference between loan growth and deposit growth. Yields are rising, but banks need funds. Deposit growth is slow as people seek better returns elsewhere. Banks are also using certificates of deposit. However, these are short-term. Lenders must fund the increasing demand for loans.
Minecraft Realms down and when will it be back up? Thousands of players reported issues across the United States and other regions. Users faced login failures, server disconnects, and worlds not loading. Mojang has not shared the cause or recovery timeline yet.
Tiger Global may file a review petition following a Supreme Court verdict on the India-Mauritius tax treaty. The ruling alters how investors interpret tax treaties, particularly regarding indirect transfers. This development sparks discussions in tax and legal circles. The verdict's interpretation of a key treaty article differs significantly from investor expectations.
The integration of physics-based simulations into AI represents a groundbreaking leap forward, delivering verifiable scientific insights that surpass the abilities of expansive language models. This analytical approach is gaining momentum in fields like drug innovation and materials research, with pharmaceutical firms striving for significant breakthroughs.
Budget 2026: In the face of global instability, industry leaders and economists are calling on the government to maintain its reform agenda and enhance the ease of doing business. Their aim is to stimulate demand and foster innovation within the country. These sentiments were shared by prominent figures including Habil Khorakiwala, chairman of Wockhardt Group; Anish Shah, group CEO and MD of Mahindra Group; Neelkanth Mishra, chief economist at Axis Bank and a member of the Prime Ministers Econom
Ingka Group's new CEO, Juvencio Maeztu, prioritizes resilient growth and simplification, aiming to insulate the furniture giant from global shocks. He emphasizes a long-term strategy for markets like India, where IKEA has invested over $1 billion, focusing on societal benefit over immediate dividends.
The government plans to introduce the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the upcoming budget session to prevent losses for distribution companies. The bill proposes cost-reflective tariffs, multiple distribution licensees, and phasing out cross-subsidies for major consumers within five years. Stakeholder discussions are ongoing.
A major Michigan highway crash forced I-196 near Hudsonville to shut down after icy winter weather caused a large vehicle pileup. Emergency crews are clearing the scene as drivers face delays and detours. Nearby areas also reported crashes due to poor visibility and dangerous road conditions. Officials urge travelers to check road and weather updates before driving.
Southern films across India are struggling at the box office, particularly as their share of Hindi film revenues sees a sharp decline. Analysts suggest that the root cause lies in a shortage of universal themes and repetitive storytelling. Relying solely on star power from various regions is no longer enough.
A potential US-EU trade dispute could boost Indian exports as the EU seeks stronger ties with nations like India. With the US imposing tariffs on several European goods, the EU may expedite its free trade agreement talks with India. This could lead to a more favorable deal and faster ratification, presenting India as a stable trade partner amidst global uncertainties.
India's thermal power generation share is projected to fall below 70% next fiscal, a first, due to slower demand growth and a surge in renewable energy output. Despite this decline, capital expenditure in thermal power is reviving, supported by long-term power purchase agreements and the need for base-load power.
The Power Ministry has proposed to take over the development of nuclear projects, including those with reactors under IAEA safeguards, from the Department of Atomic Energy. This move, aimed at streamlining nuclear power development, follows discussions prior to the Shanti Act's promulgation, which allows limited private participation in the sector.
Punjab National Bank reported its highest-ever quarterly net profit of 5,100 crore for the December quarter, a 13% increase year-on-year. The bank aims for consistent quarterly profits exceeding 5,000 crore, driven by growth in retail, agriculture, and MSME sectors, along with new profit-generating verticals. PNB also made a significant floating provision for the ECL framework to strengthen its balance sheet.
Michael Saylor Bitcoin (BTC USD) byuing: MicroStrategy's Michael Saylor is hinting at more Bitcoin buys after a massive $1.25 billion acquisition. The company has added nearly 15,000 BTC this year, holding over 687,000 coins profitably. Despite this, MicroStrategy's stock has seen a significant dip, while its Bitcoin holdings now represent over 3% of the total supply.
A plan to boost regional air travel is awaiting Cabinet approval. The government proposes new financial support for airlines serving remote areas. This aims to make flights to smaller cities more viable. The scheme, launched in 2016, currently offers subsidies and incentives. Officials believe the current funding model needs adjustment. This revamp could increase government investment and extend subsidy periods.
India and the European Union will announce the conclusion of free trade agreement negotiations at a summit on January 27. A security and defence partnership agreement will also be signed. EU leadership will attend India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests. Negotiations for the trade pact resumed in 2022 and are in the final stages.
Leading private equity firms are in discussions to invest in Purplle Cosmetics. The beauty platform is expected to be valued at around 13,000 crore. This potential deal involves both primary and secondary capital. Early investors may reduce their holdings. Purplle is a major player in India's growing beauty e-commerce market.
Sales of apartments priced below Rs 1 crore fell 30% on-year, dragging overall residential volumes down 11% across seven major cities. The weakness in the mass segment weighed on market performance, even as buyers at the top end continued to absorb premium supply.
While palm oil remains the most consumed cooking oil, its share has declined from about 38.9% in 2011-12 to 31.8% in 2024-25. Yet, its WPI weight has stayed unchanged at 38.4%. Soybean oil's share has risen from 15.55% to 24.7%, while sunflower oil has nearly doubled from around 6% to 11.6% over the same period. Mustard and rapeseed oils have also grown in absolute volumes, reflecting a shift toward locally produced and perceived healthier oils.
Silver prices have crossed the 3 lakh per kg mark. This surge is driven by geopolitical tensions and robust industrial demand. Experts predict further price increases if tensions escalate. While physical demand has seen a dip, the outlook for silver remains bullish. Investors are advised to accumulate on dips. A significant deficit in silver supply is also projected.
Congress leaders in Rajasthan have accused the BJP of manipulating the draft voter list. They claim names of opposition supporters are being fraudulently removed. This alleged manipulation began after a meeting on January 3. Thousands of forms were reportedly distributed to delete names, particularly in constituencies won by Congress.
Valentino Garavani was a legendary Italian fashion designer known for elegant gowns and luxury style. He built a global fashion brand loved by movie stars, royals, and supermodels. His designs appeared at major red carpet events for decades. Valentinos work changed high fashion and left a lasting mark on the fashion industry worldwide.
Hindustan Zinc achieved its highest ever profit, sales, and EBITDA in the December quarter. This success was fueled by a significant rise in silver prices, boosted production, and reduced operational costs. The company anticipates continued strong performance in the upcoming March quarter. Silver production saw a notable increase, contributing substantially to the company's earnings.
CPM leader Brinda Karat has called the death of a Kuki gang rape survivor a ational shame, highlighting the state and justice system's failure nearly two years after the brutal crime. The woman, who died due to medical complications without seeing justice, was victimized twice by divisive politics and a slow-acting system.
President Donald Trump is linking his ambition to acquire Greenland to not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. This move is straining NATO and EU-US trade relations. The European Union is considering imposing tariffs on billions of dollars of US imports. Trump is scheduled to attend Davos this week, where discussions on these escalating tensions are expected.
The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India to publish the names of 12.5 million individuals flagged for logical discrepancy in West Bengal's voter lists. The ECI must ensure transparent verification of these individuals, who have mismatches in age details with parents or grandparents, and provide them with opportunities to be heard.
The colour, introduced to the fashion world several years later, in 1959, with a strapless cocktail dress of draped tulle, has carried his name - Valentino red - ever since, doubling as the eponymous Italian fashion group's signature.
Uttar Pradesh secured significant investment commitments at the World Economic Forum 2026, signing deals worth 8,000 crore for clean energy, 1,600 crore for an AI-ready data center, and 150 crore for defense manufacturing. These agreements highlight the state's focus on sustainability, technology-led growth, and advanced manufacturing, aiming to attract global investors.

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