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The Economic Times

Economy / The Economic Times

'India an important ally': Marco Rubio says US President studying impact of possible tariffs on countries like India

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted India's significant energy requirements while discussing waived sanctions on Russia. These sanctions, part of the Lindsey O. Graham Act, could have imposed tariffs on countries importing Russian fuel. Rubio mentioned a 60-day period for further analysis of the sanctions' impact on the global economy. Additionally, he noted changing geopolitical situations affecting global energy supplies and prices.

18 Oct 2026 8:44 am
Jailer 2 box office collection day 3: Rajinikanths film crosses Rs 300 crore mark worldwide, beats Dhurandhar 2s overseas record

Jailer 2, featuring the legendary Rajinikanth, has impressively surpassed the Rs 300 crore milestone globally within just three days of release. However, the Hindi release is encountering distribution challenges linked to streaming window disagreements, which could impact its potential audience among Hindi speakers. Read on to know how much it earned on day 3 in India.

18 Oct 2026 7:03 am
Hollywood's fresh take on tech titans: from heroes to villains

Hollywood now represents tech leaders like Elizabeth Holmes and Elon Musk as villains amidst public disillusionment. Recent films explore the consequences of their actions and seek accountability for social damage. Documentaries and fictional works dissect their influence and ethical lapses, highlighting concerns over concentrated power. Filmmakers confront the flaws of these figures while critiquing their societal impact.

18 Oct 2026 6:58 am
Navratri fasting food goes gourmet as restaurants see demand

Restaurants are stepping into a meal occasion traditionally associated with home kitchens to keep guests observing dietary restrictions at the table. The appetite for outsourcing fasting food is already evident: during September 2025's Navratri, Swiggy delivered more than 100,000 vrat thalis, 99,200 plates of sabudana khichdi and 70,000 orders of sabudana vada, according to its annual food trends report.

18 Oct 2026 6:00 am
Family offices bet Rs 2,000 cr on temple hotels

Mumbai: Family offices are investing in hospitality assets around major pilgrimage centres across India, from Deoghar and Mathura to Saurashtra and Udupi, opening a new frontier for the domestic hotel industry. From a Mumbai family office acquiring a nearly completed upscale hotel in Udupi to RR Kabel's investment in Salasar Balaji, family capital is flowing into branded hotels around India's biggest pilgrimage centres.Nearly Rs 2,000 crore has been committed across key religious destinations ov

18 Oct 2026 6:00 am
Trump looks to rein in fuel prices ahead of midterms; waives threat of 100% tariffs on India over Russian oil, citing national interest as US inks diesel pact with Moscow

US President Donald Trump has waived fresh sanctions and duties on Russian energy exports under a new law, citing national interest and easing concerns over potential tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers, including India. The move comes as India continues to rely on Russian crude and explores long-term LNG supplies, while New Delhi and Moscow seek to expand cooperation across oil, gas, mining and steel.

18 Oct 2026 4:00 am
Christmas cheer, but caution remains: Exporters welcome US tariff relief, keep diversification plans

US President Donald Trumps decision to waive proposed tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian oil has eased uncertainty for Indian exporters ahead of the crucial Christmas shipping season. However, businesses across textiles, gems and jewellery, and human hair products say they will continue diversifying export markets after last years tariff turmoil, even as the US remains a key destination for Indian goods.

18 Oct 2026 4:00 am
Quote of the day by David Hume: 'Nothing is more surprising than the easiness with which the many are governed by the few...' - Why people accept authority of others on them explained by Scottish philosopher

David Humes famous quote, Nothing is more surprising than the easiness with which the many are governed by the few, explores why a small group of people can hold power over millions. In his essay Of the First Principles of Government, the Scottish philosopher argued that political authority depends largely on public opinion, people's belief in the legitimacy of rulers and their trust in established institutions.

18 Oct 2026 1:06 am
India notifies first tariff cuts under New Zealand FTA

India will implement duty concessions for certain imports from New Zealand starting October 20, under a new FTA. The concessions include zero basic customs duty for sheep meat and specific rates for fish and wine. Additionally, provisions have been made for manuka honey and kiwi fruit imports with varying duties. Sensitive categories like dairy products are excluded from this trade liberalization agreement.

18 Oct 2026 12:41 am
Suits & Sayings: Local Problem

ETs roundup of the wackiest whispers in corporate corridors

17 Oct 2026 11:56 pm
Prince Harry-Meghan Markle going in 'different directions': Royal couple's UK shift has fuelled changing priorities, says report

Prince Harry and Meghan Markles first joint public appearance in the UK since their return has raised questions about their future plans. While the couple reunited with well-wishers and visited charities in Nottingham, reports suggest their professional priorities may be moving in different directions. Heres what their appearance revealed about their UK return, individual ambitions and the possibility of more independent careers.

17 Oct 2026 11:33 pm
Apple Fellow Phil Schiller and his wife donate $25 million to help protect coral reefs across the world; How their gift will fund new research

Phil Schiller and Kim Gassett-Schiller announced a $25 million donation to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. This funding aims to establish the Schiller Centre for Reef Solutions, which focuses on protecting coral reefs. Researchers will investigate reef health and test practical interventions for better conservation results. The donation addresses the urgent environmental pressures facing coral ecosystems today.

17 Oct 2026 11:13 pm
Reservation push by states faces judicial tests

The Supreme Court upheld the Madras HC's ruling that religious conversion from Hinduism to another religion does not entitle a person to SC or OBC reservation. The case concerns Tamil Nadu's 3.5% quota for Muslim OBCs. In March 2024, the then DMK government allowed OBCs, SCs and Denotified Communities members who converted to Islam to claim the quota. The Madras HC struck down the order in June 2024 as unconstitutional. The TVK government's appeal was rejected by the SC.

17 Oct 2026 10:02 pm
Weather tomorrow October 18: IMD forecasts heavy rain, thunderstorms across southern states; check latest state-wise updates

Weather Tomorrow: IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across parts of southern India, with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the affected regions. Rain is expected to continue in several areas through October 23. Fishermen have also been advised to exercise caution along parts of the Arabian Sea coast.

17 Oct 2026 10:00 pm
No Kings anti-Trump movement holds over 3000 rallies across 50 states ahead of November 3 US midterm elections. What does it mean for Donald Trump, Republican party?

No Kings anti-Trump movement: More than 3,200 events had been planned in all 50 states, after the two previous nationwide events attracted millions of participants.

17 Oct 2026 9:59 pm
Woman journalist Richa Parashar files FIR against Rahul Gandhi for alleged manhandling during protest

Richa Parashar, a journalist, filed a complaint against Rahul Gandhi for manhandling during a protest. The incident occurred on October 12 while covering a demonstration by Opposition leaders. Parashar alleged that Gandhi grabbed her and caused her to fall, resulting in injuries. She emphasized the lack of assistance from his supporters after the fall. Parashar has requested that media organizations release footage of the incident.

17 Oct 2026 9:54 pm
Aayush Wellness launches calcium, vitamin supplements; enters USD 16.3-bn bone & joint health segment

Aayush Wellness Limited has launched Aayush Calcium Vitamin Tablets, expanding its nutraceutical portfolio into the bone and joint health segment. The formulation combines calcium citrate, vitamin D2, magnesium, zinc and folic acid to support bone strength, calcium absorption and musculoskeletal health. The company said the launch aligns with growing consumer interest in preventive healthcare and nutritional supplements.

17 Oct 2026 9:17 pm
Delhi-bound Emirates flight hit by bird strike, Dubai return delayed till October 18; hotel stay arranged for affected passengers

An Emirates flight from Delhi to Dubai has been delayed until October 18 after the aircraft encountered a bird strike on arrival in the national capital. Separately, Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam until October 24 amid the security situation in West Asia, offering eligible passengers complimentary date changes.

17 Oct 2026 8:57 pm
Todd and Julie Chrisley hit with $1.57 million IRS tax lien after Donald Trumps 2025 pardon; what we know

Todd and Julie Chrisley are facing a significant tax challenge with a federal lien amounting to $1.57 million, linked to unpaid taxes for the years 2021 and 2022. This news follows their recent release from prison, thanks to pardons bestowed by Donald Trump. Previously convicted for fraudulent loans and tax evasion, the couple has yet to address the latest tax issues publicly.

17 Oct 2026 8:52 pm
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu calls for roadmap to boost yak economy, herders income

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the importance of creating a roadmap for yak conservation. He highlighted the need to support yak herders through suitable policy interventions from both levels of government. A proposed cooperative society aims to help herders improve their income and market access. The Chief Minister also called for capacity building and scientific practices to strengthen the yak economy.

17 Oct 2026 8:44 pm
Commerce Ministry organizes Leveraging FTAs outreach program in Jaipur to boost exports

The Commerce Ministry organized an outreach event in Jaipur, targeting exporters to clarify the use of benefits provided by India's free trade agreements. This initiative aims to translate preferential market access into tangible export opportunities for Indian enterprises, emphasizing Rajasthan's strengths in textiles, handicrafts, and gems. Plans for coordination among stakeholders are outlined to optimize support for exporters moving forward.

17 Oct 2026 8:36 pm
Understanding the tech behind Dolby Cinema: What makes it different from a regular theatre?

Dolby Laboratories has launched Keralas first Dolby Cinema in Fort Kochi, combining Dolby Vision projection and Dolby Atmos sound in a 450-seater auditorium. But what makes it different from a regular theatre, how does its technology improve the movie-watching experience, and will the difference justify a premium ticket price?

17 Oct 2026 8:22 pm
NPPA caps trade margins on 137 cancer drugs at 30%, revised prices from Nov 9

India's National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority has capped trade margins for 137 anti-cancer drugs at 30% of their maximum retail price. This cap, effective from November 9, applies to all listed drugs, including Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab. Manufacturers must adjust prices if they exceed the newly calculated maximum retail price. Compliance will be monitored by state drug controllers and hospitals, which play a significant role in drug supply.

17 Oct 2026 7:52 pm
Anirudh Ravichander-Kavya Maran wedding reception: From PM Modi to Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, who has received invitations so far?

Anirudh Ravichander and Kavya Maran are reportedly gearing up for a lavish wedding reception on November 21, 2026. High-profile invitations have been dispatched to notable political figures, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. While the couple's wedding ceremony is tentatively planned in Greece on November 11, specifics remain under wraps.

17 Oct 2026 7:42 pm
HDFC Banks post-merger integration work largely behind us, says incoming MD & CEO Anup Bagchi

HDFC Bank has made significant strides in integrating its merger with HDFC Ltd after its completion in July. The bank's incoming CEO, Anup Bagchi, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong credit quality during varying economic cycles. Bagchi also acknowledged the contributions of Deputy Managing Director Kaizad Bharucha and the wider team. The bank plans to further improve its branch network and technology capabilities in the future.

17 Oct 2026 7:38 pm
Rs 3,600 crore business enquiries at 5-day handicraft fair

Over 7,300 buyers participated in the 62nd IHGF Delhi Fair held from October 13 to 17. Business enquiries at the fair totaled Rs 3,600 crore, demonstrating strong international interest. Buyers from 105 countries, including the US, UK, and Germany, were present. Many brands indicated a significant shift toward sourcing more products from Indian manufacturers. India's handicraft exports reached $3.75 billion for the fiscal year 2025-26.

17 Oct 2026 7:37 pm
Passenger's earbud tip gets stuck inside ear on moving train; what Indian Railways did next left him pleasantly surprised

A passenger travelling on the Kaveri Express received medical assistance after a wireless earbuds silicone tip got stuck in their ear during an overnight journey. According to a Reddit post, a call to Indian Railways 139 helpline prompted railway staff, the RPF and a doctor to coordinate help at Jolarpettai, where the earbud tip was removed.

17 Oct 2026 7:34 pm
More US universities to face J-1 visa probes

More US universities could come under investigation for potential J-1 visa fraud, US Department of Labor Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito said. He also said that subpoenas had been served and investigations were already underway.Nine universities under investigation for potential J-1 visa fraudmore to come. Companies suspended. Warrants executed. Subpoenas issued. American first. Just getting started, D'Esposito said in a post on X.— USLaborIG (@USLaborIG) Earlier, last Thursday, US Vi

17 Oct 2026 7:02 pm
Iranian fishermen searching for fish find floating iPhones, luxury perfumes in Hormuz

A cargo vessels sinking in the Strait of Hormuz has left questions over maritime safety after Iranian fishermen recovered goods from the surrounding waters. All 21 crew members of the GFS Pride escaped, but competing explanations for the incident, including a mine or a possible missile or drone strike, remain unconfirmed.

17 Oct 2026 6:56 pm
How Elon Musk's 'flying car' can stick to ceilings and lift up from ground: Check booking details and will Tesla Roadster be legal?

Elon Musks Tesla Roadster has showcased stunts that seem to defy the laws of physics, from lifting off the ground to driving upside down. But the technology behind these moves is very different from what powers an ordinary electric car. Heres how its rocket thrusters and suction system work, what makes its performance claims unusual, and whether buyers will be able to get their hands on this futuristic vehicle.

17 Oct 2026 6:45 pm
Anirudh Ravichander-Kavya Maran wedding: Did a tarot reader predict music composers future wife 10 years ago?

Recently, a captivating tarot reading predicting Anirudh Ravichander's future wife's profile has resurfaced on social media. This intriguing reading hints at her educational and professional journey. Amid rumors of their wedding plans, including a reception invitation and a possible ceremony in Greece, discussions about their relationship have been ongoing since 2025, although Anirudh has previously quashed marriage speculation.

17 Oct 2026 6:36 pm
Agitators shut all gates of Bokaro Steel Plant; production impacted

Trained apprentices at Bokaro Steel Plant have blocked all 11 factory gates as part of their protest. This ongoing agitation, which entered its eighth day, includes an indefinite hunger strike. Protesters, mainly from displaced families, demand regularisation of their jobs and a clear recruitment policy. BSL management claims 204 of the 950 apprentices are already engaged as contractual workers.

17 Oct 2026 6:30 pm
US' Russia sanction waiver a relief for India's exporters, energy security: Experts

The waiver of sanctions under the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act provides relief for India's energy security. Experts believe that continued access to Russian crude will support economic growth and ease inflationary pressures. While the waiver offers temporary relief, uncertainty remains regarding future contracts and investments. Trade organizations express hope for improving bilateral trade relations and advancing discussions between India and the US.

17 Oct 2026 6:10 pm
Shridevi Institute, US-based Vaxonyx sign MoU for AI-driven cancer and genomic research

Shridevi Institute of Medical Sciences in Tumakuru has signed an MoU with Vaxonyx LLC for collaboration. This partnership aims to focus on AI-enabled bioinformatics and genomic research tailored for Indian populations. They will develop personalized cancer therapies by analyzing individual tumor profiles. The collaboration will also explore the creation of genomic datasets to improve genetic models. Moreover, they intend to develop DNA-based vaccine candidates for relevant public health issues.

17 Oct 2026 6:01 pm
Hotels business has hit a critical mass for ixigo, co confident of triple digit growth in hotels: Group CEO

ixigo has reported substantial growth in its hotel business, surpassing 5,000 room nights booked daily. The company is aiming to become a leading player in the mid-market hotel segment over the next few years. ixigo's revenue from hotel bookings has seen impressive year-on-year growth, primarily from its own user base. International flight bookings also showed significant growth, as domestic fares remained high.

17 Oct 2026 5:40 pm
ICICI Bank Q2 net profit rises 20% to 14,843 crore; NIM slips to 4.18% as bank flags further pressure in Q3

ICICI Bank reported a 20% year-on-year rise in Q2 net profit to 14,843 crore, supported by an 18% increase in net interest income. However, net interest margin narrowed to 4.18% from 4.36% in the previous quarter, with the bank expecting further pressure in Q3 due to foreign currency non-resident bank (FCNR-B) deposit mobilisation and branch expansion costs.

17 Oct 2026 5:36 pm
Axis Bank's Freecharge gets in-principle RBI nod to operate as payment aggregator

Axis Bank's digital payments platform Freecharge has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India. The approval allows Freecharge to operate under PA-O1 and PA-P1 categories starting in FY27. The bank has reported a 34% year-on-year growth in UPI transaction value for July-September. Digital transactions represented 98% of the total financial transactions during this quarter. Axis Bank continues to expand its digital payments operations, reflecting ongoing investment in technolo

17 Oct 2026 5:18 pm