The Economic Times

Avinash Mishra secured victory in Khatron Ke Khiladi 15, becoming the champion after weeks of challenges. He expressed his emotions as Rohit Shetty announced him as the winner during the grand finale. Avinash's win is major as it marks a decade-long journey in his acting career. Read on!

Hanuman Ansh continues to shine at the box office even after 57 days, raking in a remarkable Rs 419 crore worldwide. The film remains steadfast amidst stiff competition, with the makers prioritising its theatrical success. Read on to know more about when it will start streaming online.

Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week, Sanket Dhanorkar explains why yields on US Treasury bonds matter, and what it means for Indian investors. Rising US bond yields mean investors are demanding a higher return to buy and hold that debt. This reflects concerns over the weak fiscal position of the US and the inflationary impact from steep oil prices.

Working Indians across generations are increasingly proactive towards retirement planning, even as most believe they are not adequatelyeither financially, physically or emotionally prepared for their twilight years, the latest edition of an annual study by Axis Max Life Insurance shows. 1 in 2 respondents think they should start plan ning for retirement from their 1st pay cheque.

In this edition, we present a 10-year performance tracker of various domestic market sectors. The annual returns are ranked for 9 key NSE Sector indices. Metals lead 10-year sector gains; Real Estate, Energy follow. By Sameer Bhardwaj.

Bala had saved 2,000 for headphones. He spotted a pair at 40% off, but the prompt, Only 2 left! and Add 500 more for FREE shipping! nudged him into adding a phone cover and a notebook. He ended up spending more than he had planned. During festive sales, around Dussehra and Diwali, such offers can push us to buy faster, spend more or buy things we dont really need.

Cover the risks between your old payslip and the new one, says Devashish Chakravarty. Read the print on your offer before you re sign. Routine conditions are fine, such as background verification, document checks and reference calls. Speed them up. Watch out for clauses that can delay or withdraw the offer, like a joining date to be confirmed, or a role tied to a client contract, or a probation that is extendable.

Investor enthusiasm around the sector is visible in the performance of nine EMS stocks covered by multiple brokerages. The group has delivered an equal weighted average return of 55.3% so far in 2026, compared with 1.1% for the Nifty 500 Equal Weighted Index. Seven of the nine stocks have delivered posi tive returns, while three have gained over 100%. The analysis is based on closing prices as of 28 September 2026.

The software can analyse thousands of funds and figure out that the three or four you are researching have almost identical portfolios. However, the investors real challenge lies in the middle stage. Choosing a good fund is the easy part because there are actually a lot of good funds and distinguishing the good from the bad is not black magic, nor is it guesswork.

Recent incidents highlight the increasing threat of compromised WhatsApp accounts among financial advisers in India. These attacks exploit trust, as fraudsters impersonate advisers through hacked accounts. Financial firms have implemented strict new security measures to mitigate future attacks and protect client information. Advisers urge their clients to adopt safer communication practices when handling sensitive financial information. Staying vigilant and verifying communications can prevent p

While the higher ceiling does have an impact on immediate net cash take-home of the employee due to increased contribution, it will certainly support building of future corpus for retirement and higher pension by way of contribution to the provident fund and pension scheme.

The recent adjustment to the Employees' Provident Fund wage ceiling significantly widens eligibility for benefits, raising the contribution limit from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 25,000. This revision aims to enhance social security, but it might pose complexities for pension contributions. Employees should verify the accuracy of their EPS records to prevent issues, as the swift rollout of the new ceiling could lead to unforeseen challenges.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India has announced new proposals to limit commission rates for insurance distributors. This move seeks to tackle high distribution costs, ultimately enhancing the policyholder experience. By implementing reforms aimed at fostering customer-centric practices, the initiative aims to curtail the mis-selling of insurance products. Insurers must align their compensation methods with the value delivered to customers.

Rules and caps can change behaviour. Incentives determine whether organisations merely comply with the rules or actually change the behaviour that created the problem. No regulator can adjudicate every commercial decision made by every insurer and distributor.

Many travelers fail to account for hidden costs while planning international journeys, often only considering major expenses. These overlooked charges can hike trip costs by 25-40%, creating budget overruns. It's vital to include local transport, dining, and extra fees in your budget to avoid unexpected financial surprises. Employing effective budgeting techniques ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience abroad.

Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding: Paul McCartney confirmed he performed his group's 1963 track I Want to Hold Your Hand after the Shake It Off hitmaker tied the knot with Travis Kelce at New York's Madison Square Garden in July.

India is set to implement significant reforms to the goods and services tax system, which will ease compliance. Changes may include the release of accumulated input tax credit that benefits various industries and supports growth. The GST Council plans to reconsider tax treatment for certain supplier defaults to protect genuine buyers.

Domestic airfares on key routes have surged ahead of the festive and year-end travel season, with Delhi-Hyderabad fares up 68% year-on-year and Mumbai-Kolkata 51%. Airlines have cut domestic flight frequencies by 5% while keeping seat capacity broadly stable, but higher ATF prices and constrained departures are adding pressure on fares.

On Monday, the Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee will hold important meetings. Analysts are anticipating a 25 basis points increase in the key interest rate, raising it to 5.50%. The surge in inflation is attributed to elevated crude oil costs and subpar agricultural production. Many economists advocate for a rate hike as a crucial measure to tackle ongoing inflation issues, with outcomes to be revealed on October 7.

The Goods and Services Tax Council meeting is set to discuss proposals benefitting small ecommerce sellers. If approved, these sellers could operate nationwide with one registered address rather than multiple. This would allow online sellers to utilize warehouse locations for registration. Additionally, the council will address the ambiguities regarding tax liability for services booked through ecommerce platforms. Changes aim to standardize tax collections and reporting requirements for all pla

India's economic growth remains strong, with foreign direct investment continuing to show promising figures. Arvind Panagariya emphasizes the need for deeper trade liberalization, increased privatization, and judicial reforms. He highlights the importance of attracting long-term productive investments, especially from private equity. Trade agreements with the UK and European Union are expected to further bolster India's economy.

The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games ended with a vibrant closing ceremony attended by athletes from 45 countries. India secured fourth place with a total of 85 medals, including 21 gold medals. China topped the medal table, followed by Japan and South Korea, showcasing the competitive spirit. The Olympic Council of Asia President declared the Games closed, emphasizing the significance of the event for Asian sports.

Delhi International Airport Ltd has successfully raised 3,500 crore through 15-year rupee-denominated non-convertible debentures. This financing aims to refinance its upcoming $522.6 million dollar notes maturing in October 2026. Major investors included India Infrastructure Finance Company and various banks that subscribed substantial amounts.

Bajaj Finserv is preparing to enter the reinsurance sector with the appointment of N Ramaswamy Narayanan. The former chairman of GIC Re brings over thirty years of reinsurance experience to the role. This strategic move aims to strengthen the Bajaj Group's existing insurance operations through a new subsidiary focused on reinsurance.

The new GST framework in India aims to streamline compliance processes while lowering tax rates, contributing to enhanced economic stability. This initiative promises to improve taxpayer satisfaction and bolster revenue generation, encouraging growth across multiple industries. Early data shows a notable increase in taxable supplies after these reforms, positively impacting both businesses and consumers, with small and medium enterprises particularly benefiting from a cohesive national market.

Indias audit rotation cycle is prompting companies to scrutinise prospective auditors far beyond credentials, examining team stability, sector expertise, regulatory records, technology capabilities and conflicts involving non-audit services. With over 1,000 mandates expiring in FY27, audit committees are demanding greater detail on partner continuity, independence and the value firms can deliver.

Artificial intelligence is creating a new revenue stream for celebrities and digital creators by allowing them to license AI-generated versions of their faces and voices. The opportunity spans advertising, branded content and digital media, but also raises questions around consent, unauthorised replication and ownership of digital identities.

Mumbai: Reliance Retail and 7-Eleven are ending their five-year franchisee deal in India, closing most of the nearly 60 convenience stores they operated under the partnership, after struggling to make the format profitable, people familiar with the matter said.A handful of outlets are clearing the inventory before shutting, they said. 7-Eleven may look for another Indian partner to keep a foothold in the market, although no decision has been made, the people said.The exit highlights an unusual s

With global financial risks in the spotlight, the Reserve Bank of India is indicating a shift towards higher interest rates. Governor Sanjay Malhotra has highlighted emerging challenges, including significant global debt levels and surging asset prices. The rise in US treasury yields and crude oil costs suggests trials ahead for the Indian economy.

Salman Khan has maintained a disciplined fitness routine focused on strength training and volume over many years. His longtime trainer Rakkesh R. Uddiyar emphasizes the importance of consistency and dedication in achieving fitness goals. Salman trains six days a week, ensuring his workouts are efficient while adapting to his film schedules. While he follows a balanced diet, he modifies his training and cardio according to specific film roles.

Amid growing concerns over dubious lending practices, the National Housing Bank has initiated a forensic audit of SRG Housing Finance. This scrutiny will investigate allegations of fictitious loans, including unsupported accounts and discrepancies in repayment records. Auditors will delve into consumer data and loan origination processes to uncover any fraudulent activity, building on earlier findings that flagged possible fictitious loans ranging from 300 to 400 crore.

India's growth prospects remain strong despite external shocks affecting the economy. Erik Berglof highlights the need for resilience against climate and geopolitical risks. He notes that high US bond yields could impact emerging economies due to higher interest costs. Additionally, energy and water security are identified as critical areas needing improvement.

Economic Affairs Secretary Anuradha Thakur said trade shaped by security and geopolitical considerations could deepen global imbalances, raise capital costs and create friction. She said private investment was showing signs of revival despite tight global financial conditions, while the AI investment cycle was adding to demand for capital and debt.

Janhvi Kapoor has publicly addressed a manipulated AI video circulating online that misrepresents her image. The video was created using footage from her film Devara: Part 1 with Jr NTR. Kapoor described the circulation of such content as deeply violating and comparable to sexual assault. Actors from the Indian film industry have condemned the misuse of AI in this context.

Emergency services were on their way to the scene, the mayor said. In recent days, the Southern Bridge across the river has been struck several times by Russian drones, amid an escalation in attacks on infrastructure in the Ukrainian capital.

The Supreme Court plans to hear pleas regarding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's alleged unilateral decisions and actions. Petitioners Rakesh Kumar Singh and Shailendra Mani Tripathi challenge Kumar's adherence to collective decision-making principles. They seek his suspension pending a final ruling and the appointment of officials based on consensus.

Bosses having a daughter can change not just their lives but also yours for the better. A survey found that managers whose firstborn kids were daughters were more likely to have more women being employed and their pay packets increasing. The results show that becoming a father, especially having a daughter, might change how people at work think about women in the workplace.

Iran is currently evaluating a diplomatic proposal put forth to the United States aimed at easing rising regional tensions. This proposal was conveyed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi via diplomatic channels. In related news, a commercial tanker in the Strait of Hormuz suffered damage from an unidentified projectile, but fortunately, the crew remained unharmed.

Bangladesh's government is urging India to facilitate the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina promptly. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam emphasized the need for both legal and political willingness in this process. Hasina has been living in India since fleeing Bangladesh following the July Uprising in 2024.

In a recent statement, Masayoshi Son underscored the critical importance of international unity in managing the safety risks associated with advanced AI technologies. As AI grows increasingly capable, apprehensions about the dangers in unrestricted environments intensify. The White House is at the forefront of a collaborative initiative involving 17 countries aimed at enhancing AI for scientific exploration.

Automakers including Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota and Renault are preparing around half a dozen small hybrid vehicles for India over the next 18-24 months, drawn by lower 18% GST on compact cars and tighter CAFE 3 norms. The sub-four-metre segments strong growth is also encouraging manufacturers to pursue affordable hybrids.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the Indian squad for their remarkable achievements at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, where the nation proudly stood fourth with a tally of 85 medals. He lauded the athletes for their resilience and tenacity throughout the events. The Games witnessed the establishment of more than 350 records, including several world records.

Kumkum Anil Mohod stood out in India's stellar archery achievements during the Asian Games 2026. The Indian archery team celebrated a remarkable run, securing five gold medals and multiple podium finishes. Notable performances from Neeraj Chauhan and Sahil Jadhav showcased their exceptional skills. This campaign exemplified the team's dedication and effort, solidifying archery's status as one of India's premier sports disciplines in recent years.

In a recent meeting, the Assam Cabinet has ratified a Green Cess on vehicle ownership transfers. This initiative aligns with the introduction of a 12% recruitment reservation for ex-Agniveers residing in Assam, specifically for police and emergency roles. Furthermore, the Madhupur Satra will receive financial support of Rs 1 lakh each month.

Jitender Mann quit his lucrative IT job to pursue organic farming after a health scare. He began growing moringa and other greens on his Delhi terrace as a personal project. This small experiment eventually evolved into a successful organic farming venture with a turnover of Rs 30 lakh. Mann's journey illustrates how personal experiences can lead to significant career changes.

Sass Jordan, the celebrated Canadian rock artist, passed away at 63, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Her journey, beginning in Montreal's vibrant club scene, led to international success and numerous accolades. Known for her powerful voice and collaborations with leading musicians, she released several acclaimed albums and influenced a generation of singers while mentoring on Canadian Idol, proving her adaptability across musical genres throughout her career.