The Economic Times

Actor R Madhavan, last seen in GDN, shared a story about a father's unwavering support for his son. The father drove two hours to watch his son play, regardless of the outcome. This presence, not performance, builds lasting confidence and resilience in children. Madhavan previously discussed encouraging his son Vedaant to think independently. He believes children learn from experiences and parental support is crucial.

August 2026 marked a historic milestone in India's auto retail market, exceeding all previous records. In a significant shift, alternative fuel vehicles eclipsed petrol sales in the passenger vehicle category. Rural markets had a remarkable performance, outshining urban areas across vehicle segments, while tractor sales held steady amid monsoon effects. Auto dealers anticipate a more intensive demand evaluation in the coming months, from September through November.

Certain beverages can gently support digestive regularity and ease occasional constipation. Caffeinated drinks like coffee and green tea stimulate colon activity for better movement, claims Harvard-trained gut doctor Dr Saurabh Sethi. Kefir berry smoothies offer probiotics and fiber, aiding gut health and bowel frequency. Sorbitol-rich fruit juices, such as prune juice, provide a natural laxative effect. Chia seed water, combined with hydration, helps soften and bulk up stool effectively.

Delhi nutritionist Lovneet Batra emphasizes daily habits over quick fixes for health. Nourishing the body with whole foods provides essential nutrients for overall well-being. Prioritizing deep, restorative sleep supports immune function and metabolic health. Walking daily helps muscles use glucose and manage blood sugar levels. Building muscle and exercising support strength, longevity, and mental health.

A Bengaluru woman earning Rs 26 lakh annually is considering whether to buy a home or continue renting for Rs 27,000 a month. Amit Arora shared that she has Rs 24.5 lakh across savings, mutual funds and PF, with no existing loans. However, supporting her parents and the burden of a large EMI have made her consider waiting two to three years.

Cutting through money jargon, one topic at a time. This week Abhinav Kaul explains why funds sit on cash, what it costs you, and when it should worry you.

India's Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced a groundbreaking Public Insurance Registry aimed at streamlining the management of policyholder data. This innovative Digital Public Infrastructure intends to link all parties within the insurance ecosystem, fostering improved operations. Policyholders will enjoy more efficient monitoring of their policies and expedited claims handling, while insurers can utilize standardized data for enhanced risk evaluation

Gen Z is not rejecting homeownership. It is becoming more deliberate about the financial equation behind it. For this generation, a sensible purchase is one where the EMI fits comfortably alongside savings, investments and other financial goals.

Welcome to TrendMap, your quick guide to the performance of different investment segments. In this edition, we present a 10-year performance tracker of various asset classes. The annual returns are ranked across multiple asset classes, including equity, debt, and precious metals. This map shows that no single asset class reigns supreme. Hence, diversification helps. By Sameer Bhardwaj.

For the longest time, we had a defined benefit plan. Even today, we have around us many retired government and public sector employees (and their widows and dependent children as applicable) earning a lifetime inflation-adjusted monthly pension that is way beyond their contributions during their earning years.

High-frequency data reveals that India's economy is on an upward trajectory, exhibiting robust growth. An executive highlights vibrant vehicle sales and soaring credit demand. Additionally, corporate earnings show positive trends, with notable increases in capital expenditure. However, the nation is still on the path to fully recovering from the effects of COVID, emphasising the necessity for ongoing reforms to achieve sustainable growth and minimise economic gaps.

The contributions of homemakers to household management have substantial economic significance that is now being acknowledged by life insurance policies. By considering family finances and the income of a spouse, insurers are able to offer tailored coverage for homemakers. Notably, the premiums for these term plans rival those for income-earning individuals, highlighting the importance of thoroughly understanding the specifics of life cover, whether individual or joint.

Non-resident Indians should note that leaving the UK doesn't automatically terminate tax residency. Retaining connections might keep your tax status intact even after relocating. Income and capital gains sourced from the UK could still be liable for UK tax post-departure. Additionally, Indian tax residents are required to report foreign assets and income. Seeking professional advice is essential for a smooth financial adjustment when returning to India.

India is currently experiencing a sugar shortage, caused by shorter production yields and increased consumer demand. While government initiatives are in place to stabilise prices, they may not adequately address the root supply problems. Additionally, global conditions, such as Brazil prioritizing ethanol production, keep international sugar costs high. Experts foresee a sustained tight market in the coming seasons, leading to greater profitability for sugar firms.

India's recent fundraising initiative among its diaspora is anticipated to incur significant expenses for the Reserve Bank of India. The unexpected surge in funds from the special deposit program may impose a financial burden, with economists estimating the cost could exceed twelve billion dollars. To counterbalance these expenses, the central bank might resort to foreign investments for financial relief.

Once a country begins to treat access to its markets, its currency and its financial system as instruments of pressure, then the logic will get applied to more and more cases. The fact is that the US has become addicted to coercion through economic measures and not only will this habit be hard to break, it will expand to more and more areas.

Anish Tawakley took over as Chief Investment Officer (CIO) at DSP Asset Managers in April after a successful stint as co-CIO at ICICI Prudential AMC. With his contrarian credentials fitting well with DSPs investment approach, Tawakley discusses with Sanket Dhanorkar his plans to refine processes, lessons from the past, style diversity, and his outlook on equity and bond markets.

In the Indian investment landscape, a stark difference exists between mutual fund distributors who earn commissions and fee-only advisors who charge direct fees. This distinction has left many investors perplexed. Industry professionals have embarked on varying paths, revealing the challenges posed by regulatory complexities and compliance demands. The market is in need of clearer guidelines and supportive regulations to enhance the viability of independent advisory practices.

Tewolde Gebremariam officially assumes operational leadership at Air India this Monday, taking over from Campbell Wilson. With mounting pressure to elevate safety and reliability standards, Gebremariam aims to enhance engineering and maintenance functions while prioritizing financial discipline and profitability. He is expected to have significant autonomy to drive sustainable operational practices.

Indian content creators are building and monetizing their own intellectual property. YouTube is emerging as a key destination for premium, long-form original shows. Balaji Telefilms partnered with YouTube for five fiction shows, retaining IP ownership. This shift addresses a gap between linear television and premium subscription platforms. Connected TV viewing is creating new opportunities for diverse content across verticals.

People yearn to love and be loved. The idea of being in love is something that many of us like. But love has the power to permanently alter us. Heartbreaks can negatively impact our mental health and make us more emotionally guarded, even in a time when relationships are becoming more fleeting. For this reason, renowned Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky bemoaned the fact that loveeven real lovehad a cost centuries ago.

An employee got the shock of their lives when they discovered that they were being taken for a ride by their manager. They found after working for over 14 years for two years that they were being made to work for their manager's spouse's personal brand.

When an employee learned that their dishonest manager had given them work for her husband's company, they received a harsh wake-up call. For more than two years, the worker had put in fourteen hours a day. At first, they thought the work they were assigned was a part of their duties.

Local alternative investment funds have warned regulators about proposed changes. These changes could significantly impact capital inflows into India's economy. The draft rules aim to curb indirect foreign ownership in sensitive sectors. Industry officials requested the status quo on existing regulatory definitions. This move seeks to maintain India's attractiveness for foreign investment.

The Reserve Bank of India is currently grappling with a notable liquidity dilemma due to a surge in FCNR(B) scheme inflows. To navigate this, a pivotal variable rate reverse repo auction is set to influence the liquidity management strategy. The central bank may also utilize measures such as dollar swaps and bond sales.

Driven by a young mind's fascinating inquiry into wasted bodily energy, VERDA was born. This groundbreaking technology harnesses mechanical energy and transforms it into electrical power. With an innovative blend of ferrofluid and 3D printing, Ahmed's design exemplifies creativity. As a finalist in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, he aims to enhance VERDA in collaboration with a scientist ahead of the national finals.

India's foreign tourist arrivals are projected to plateau this year, influenced by rising oil prices from ongoing global conflicts that have increased travel costs for many. Industry professionals urge the need for renewed marketing initiatives abroad, while the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality forecasts only 8-9 million foreign visitors by 2026, still falling short of pre-Covid levels, indicating a persistent challenge for India's tourism sector.

Manoj Bajpayee confirmed that discussions for The Family Man Season 4 will begin soon. The popular spy thriller's next chapter is expected to move forward after script finalisation. Read on to know more about the upcoming much-awaited season.

A petition challenges the HPV vaccination program's implementation. It alleges violations of constitutional rights regarding informed consent and bodily autonomy. The public interest litigation seeks to suspend the school-based component immediately. This action is requested until a legally compliant consent protocol is established. The Supreme Court is expected to hear the matter this week.

Actress Gazala Salmin, who worked alongside Shah Rukh Khan recently, recalled how the superstar took care of her when they worked in the 1994 hit Anjaam.

The bankruptcy court in Mumbai has greenlit Shree Naman Developers' ambitious acquisition valued at 1,800 crore for two hotel establishments. This comprehensive plan allocates 1,611 crore to Gstaad Hotels and 189 crore to Neo Capricorn Plaza, significantly surpassing the total admitted liabilities of around 1,227 crore. The resolution aims to maintain the corporate entities as ongoing operations, reflecting Shree Naman Developers' robust strategy of acquiring distressed businesses via insolvency

Indian Immunologicals confirmed no counterfeit Abhayrab vaccine batch was exported. Four individuals were arrested by Delhi Police after seizing fake vaccine vials. The manufacturer stated all vaccine batches undergo independent testing and government certification. This ensures vaccines reach patients through regulated and authorized supply chains. Previous counterfeit batches had triggered international health authority alerts for travelers.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India is exploring private equity investment in non-audit accounting services. This move aims to facilitate growth by separating assurance and non-assurance practices. Assurance services will remain independent from such external investments. Global models and regulations are being studied by an internal committee. The profession is also adapting to artificial intelligence and its implications.

Customs officers must now manually check import documents for healthcare products. This manual verification applies even to facilitated imports cleared by the risk system. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs issued this directive on September third. A gap in the SWIFT 2.0 digital system necessitates this manual document check. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation requested this action to ensure regulatory compliance.

Indian beverage firms are increasingly using glass and PET bottles for packaging. This shift occurs as the West Asia conflict disrupts aluminium can supplies and raises costs. Aluminium can prices have risen by at least twenty percent due to these global issues. Beer makers report stronger demand for glass bottles when cans are unavailable. Companies are securing materials in advance amid ongoing global uncertainties.

Hindustan Unilever is banking on the evolution of household habits for sustainable growth. The advances in LPG adoption and a greater reach of tap water are paving the way for new consumption trends. Additionally, the influence of Gen-Z is altering brand interaction paradigms. The company is actively recalibrating its portfolio to tackle market challenges.

Larsen & Toubro has postponed its electrolyser manufacturing expansion plans. Weak green hydrogen demand is impacting investment decisions for the company. L&T's current capacity stands at 400 MW, with a planned 1 GW expansion. The company can ramp up production as market demand increases. This expansion is contingent on future project announcements and market openings.

India secured one billion dollars from the International Finance Corporation for banks. This funding will provide long-term credit to small businesses and financial institutions. The facility will address a key gap by offering loans of up to seven years. It aims to galvanize MSME capital expenditure investment and support modernization.

The significance of gold in India's circular economy is on the rise, with various stakeholders prioritizing transparency and trust in gold sourcing. Malabar Gold & Diamonds caters to a remarkable eighty percent of its demand through recycled gold. Meanwhile, younger consumers are increasingly seeking knowledge about gold's ethical origins. Furthermore, the financialization through gold ETFs and loans bolsters support for households and ventures alike.

Popular gamer ScoutOP, also known as Tanmay Singh, has joined Bigg Boss 20. He rose to fame through PUBG Mobile and Battlegrounds Mobile India. ScoutOP has represented several prominent esports teams and achieved international recognition. Beyond competitive gaming, he is a successful content creator with millions of followers. Read on!

Unlike millennials, Gen Z employees are in no mood to put up with a lack of work-life balance and the expectation to have no life of their own and be available for work even when they are on their day off. Taking to X, one X user explained how the employees are keeping the millennials on their toes.

Three Texas islands, once flourishing habitats for diverse bird species, have vanished due to natural erosion and subsidence. However, a significant restoration initiative has brought these nesting areas in Dickinson Bay, attracting thousands of colonial waterbirds to the revitalised Dickinson Bay Island II. Additionally, this project installed oyster reefs and protective structures, showcasing the potential to reverse ecological decline.

Brothers and Sisters, the landmark album by the Allman Brothers Band, was a watershed moment, marking their highest commercial achievement. Released after the sorrowful passing of two founding figures, this album signified a reinvention for the band. Its standout track, 'Ramblin' Man,' became their most successful single, illustrating a compelling journey of resilience and creativity amidst tragedy.

Piyush Goyal emphasized the importance of enhancing India's pharmaceutical industry to draw in more investments. He urged for the creation of robust supply chains to avoid reliance on a single country. The minister also championed the idea of bolstering research and development, securing patents for Indian innovations, and promoting alignment with global regulatory standards. Furthermore, he recommended increasing production in the Ayush sector and medical devices to achieve global recognition.

Rhiti Tiwari, the daughter of actor and politician Manoj Tiwari, is stepping into the limelight as a contestant on Bigg Boss 20. A musician and songwriter, she has released her own tracks while keeping her private life largely away from the public eye. With her father having previously competed in Bigg Boss season four, Rhiti's entry is a huge transition in her own narrative.

Recent exit polls indicate that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is poised to take the lead in the Saxony-Anhalt regional election. This could pave the way for the first far-right state government since WWII. The AfD aims for an absolute majority to govern alone, as Chancellor Friedrich Merz's party, currently in power, is showing significant lagging in the votes.

The Satya Niketan building collapse has claimed four lives, according to Delhi police officials. An FIR will be registered shortly, and simultaneous raids are underway to apprehend those responsible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the distressing loss of life in the incident. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta met with rescued individuals receiving medical treatment at AIIMS.

Quote of the Day by Monica Bellucci: Monica Belluccis quote, The most important thing with children is to give them your time. Actually, that's all that matters, explores the importance of parental presence, attention, love, and emotional connection. The quote suggests that children value meaningful time and genuine attention more than material possessions or grand gestures. It highlights how spending time together can strengthen family bonds, build trust, create lasting memories, and help child