The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has plunged 95% since the war began, with only limited crossingsmostly Iranian oil and gas vesselsrecorded. A few ships are using a reported Tehran-approved route, while sanctioned and shadow fleet tankers dominate traffic. Most oil shipments continue to head towards Asia, particularly China, amid severe disruption.
Donald Trump said in a prime-time speech in December, Next spring is projected to be the largest tax refund season of all time. But that was before the Iran war, which began February 28.
No Kings protest March 28 explained: Thousands of No Kings protests are scheduled across all 50 U.S. states on March 28, potentially marking the largest demonstration in American history. Organizers aim to defend democracy and constitutional rights against perceived challenges from the current administration, uniting diverse groups with a shared message of opposition to autocratic rule.
58-year-old Akshay shared his fitness mantra. And if you're expecting some complicated diet or workout routine, think again. He simply stressed the importance of having an early dinner,30 pm.
Jamie Dimon surprised markets by saying gold may reach $10,000. He pointed to economic worries, inflation, and high asset prices. Investors often buy gold during uncertainty. Experts also say gold can help diversify portfolios. However, risks remain and prices may not always rise. Some investors are also looking at real estate and other assets to protect money.
Ralph Fiennes, renowned for his chilling portrayal of Voldemort, is a versatile actor whose career spans historical dramas, thrillers, and dark comedies. His roles often explore characters teetering between control and chaos, mirroring his quote about God as a force of both terror and enlightenment. This willingness to delve into complexity defines his artistic approach.
Nicole Kidman and Simon Baker have sparked widespread attention after being spotted together at a recent event. While some believe their bond is romantic, others insist they are longtime friends. Their shared history and collaboration continue to keep fans intrigued.
As per the report, the number of vehicles per thousand population was 522 as of March 19, 2026. The total number of vehicles registered till 2025-26 was around 87.61 lakh, increasing from 81.18 lakh registered in the previous financial year.
India has lifted a 50% restriction on its Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) scheme. This scheme reimburses exporters for unrefunded taxes, duties, and levies incurred during the production and distribution of goods for export.
Why are US stock market indexes futures up, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq stay in green or turn red again? US stock futures rose after a policy update on Iran. Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq moved higher. Analysts say markets may stay in green or turn red again based on global risk and policy signals.
A 30% market crash can change retirement planning in many ways. It may reduce savings, affect withdrawal strategies, and influence when to claim Social Security. Experts suggest cutting spending, using cash first, and considering Roth conversions. Diversification also helps manage risk. These steps can protect retirement income and improve long-term financial stability during market volatility.
Monday Night RAW emanates from Boston's TD Garden on March 23, featuring a stacked card as the road to WrestleMania 42 intensifies. Announced matches include Grayson Waller vs. Je'Von Evans, Bayley & Lyra vs. The Kabuki Warriors, The Vision vs. The Usos, and Penta defending the Intercontinental Championship against Dominik Mysterio.
Eliminate midday sluggishness with these six fruit-based breakfast stories. By combining high-fiber fruits like Guava and Pears with healthy fats and proteins, these meals provide a stable glucose supply, ensuring you remain energized, focused, and full from your first bite until your lunch break in 2026.
As National Puppy Day is observed worldwide, the focus remains on combining joy with responsibility. While the day offers an opportunity to celebrate the unconditional love that puppies bring, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical pet ownership.
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation is developing an auto-settlement system. This will help subscribers claim unclaimed money from inactive accounts. The facility will initially focus on Aadhaar-verified accounts with small balances. This initiative aims to clear idle funds efficiently. Members who joined after October 2017 will receive priority for future settlements.
Indian Air Force pilots will soon train Royal Air Force pilots in the UK. This collaboration strengthens defence ties between India and Britain. Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth met his Indian counterpart to discuss security challenges. Indian instructors will join RAF Valley and RAF College Cranwell. This move signifies growing trust and shared professionalism between the two air forces.
The High Court refused to intervene in a hoteliers' plea for uninterrupted LPG supply, citing global supply constraints due to the Persian Gulf war. Justice Magadum stated the matter requires executive discretion and is not subject to judicial review, acknowledging the government's efforts for equitable distribution.
Footage reportedly shows a Saab 340, equipped with its distinctive Erieye radar, flying over Ukraine, potentially marking its first use by the country. This sighting aligns with Sweden's recent announcement to transfer two such airborne early warning aircraft to Kyiv. The platform's advanced surveillance capabilities, including detecting low-flying threats, would significantly enhance Ukraine's situational awareness.
Donald Trump backed down on targeting Iranian power plants after Iran warned it would target power plants across West Asia in response, as per reports.
Eating dinner before 7 PM aligns your metabolism with your body's natural circadian rhythm. This simple habit improves digestion, enhances deep sleep, and triggers cellular detoxification. By finishing meals early, you optimize fat-burning and stabilize blood sugar, providing a foundation for long-term vitality and disease prevention in 2026.
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is gearing up to compete for 21 seats in Assam's upcoming assembly elections, setting its sights on gaining traction as a recognized national entity. By engaging with the local tea tribe communitymany of whom trace their roots back to Jharkhandthe party is prioritizing the need for enhanced representation.
A major winter storm is impacting large regions of the United States, resulting in heavy snow, ice, and strong winds. The National Weather Service has cautioned, The National Weather Service has issued warnings for heavy snow, ice, and wintry conditions across six states, including areas of Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Alaska. Officials caution that severe weather may make travel impossible.
Quote of the day by Cary Grant: Cary Grant's wisdom on work ethic is highlighted. He believed in doing your job first and then demanding fair compensation. This approach builds trust and proves value. Grant's own journey from humble beginnings to Hollywood stardom exemplifies this principle. His life story shows that hard work and dedication pave the way for success and recognition.
A high-protein diet offers unique physiological benefits including superior satiety, an increased metabolic rate, and the preservation of lean muscle during weight loss. By optimizing hormone levels and supporting bone and brain health, this dietary model provides a structural and metabolic advantage that other nutritional approaches simply cannot replicate.
The Reserve Bank of India backs a new economic stabilisation fund. This fund will help India manage global challenges and oil price swings. The RBI stated that India's foreign exchange reserves are strong enough to handle external shocks. The rupee has weakened this year, prompting RBI intervention. The central bank is actively managing currency markets to ensure stability.
A persistent myth of a 13,000-year-old 'Black Knight satellite' of possible alien origin has captivated many. However, scientific explanations point to lost space debris, like a thermal insulation blanket from NASA's STS-88 mission, as the source of these claims.
The Reserve Bank of India has released its Monetary Policy Committee meeting schedule for the financial year 2026-2027. The first meeting is set for April 2026. Subsequent meetings will occur throughout the year, concluding in February 2027. This schedule comes amid global economic uncertainties. The RBI noted increased market volatility due to international conflicts and trade investigations.
Why are oil and European gas prices up again, and will Brent crude futures and U.S. West Texas Intermediate continue to rise or fall soon? Prices rose as Middle East conflict disrupted supply, halted shipping, and damaged infrastructure. Analysts warn supply losses, Strait of Hormuz risks, and LNG disruptions may keep prices volatile in the near term.
Wondering what to watch on OTT this week? March ends with a spectacular lineup of new movies and web series across Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5, and JioHotstar. The biggest highlight is Rani Mukerji returning to her iconic role in Mardaani 3. Music fans can join the global celebration for BTS: THE RETURN, while superhero enthusiasts dive into the dark streets of Hell's Kitchen in Daredevil: Born Again Season 2. From Shahid Kapoor's dark romance O'Romeo to the haunting regional mystery Kaattaan, ou
Oil prices experienced a significant drop of over 13% on Monday following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement to postpone military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure. Brent crude futures saw a decline of approximately $17, reaching a low of $96 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate fell by about $13 to $85.28.
The buzz around Dhurandhar: The Revenge continues as audiences eagerly await its OTT release. The film will stream on a new OTT platform, unlike the first part which released on Netflix. While no official date has been announced, it is expected to arrive between early May and mid-June 2026, depending on its strong box office run. With massive earnings and sustained theatrical performance, the makers may delay the digital release to maximise revenue.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu initiated the foundation for a massive ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India steel plant. This project in Rajayyapeta will have a capacity of 17.8 million tons per annum. It is expected to create one lakh direct and indirect jobs.
A senior official from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has denied reports that state-run oil companies are considering reducing LPG cylinder refills to 10 kg from the standard 14.2 kg. This potential move was reportedly aimed at conserving dwindling domestic stocks and imports amid the Iran war, allowing supplies to reach more households.
US President Donald Trump has paused planned military strikes on Iran. This decision follows productive talks aimed at resolving hostilities in West Asia. The pause is for five days and depends on ongoing negotiations. This development offers a potential diplomatic path amid rising regional tensions. Global markets are watching closely for any impact on energy supplies.
The Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education has confirmed the Class 10 Result 2026 will be released on March 24, 2026, on the official website. Over 10.6 lakh students appeared for the exams conducted from February 12 to February 28. Students can check their results online or via SMS, with a minimum passing mark of 33% required in each subject.
Todays quote of the day reflects both humour and insight, reminding readers to question their perceptions and recognise the role of bias in shaping their understanding of success.
India's strategic oil reserves are currently at 64 percent capacity. This comes as the nation relies heavily on imports for its energy needs. Geopolitical events have highlighted the importance of these reserves. India is working to expand its storage capacity and diversify its oil sources to ensure energy security.
A devastating fire in Palam claimed nine lives. Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood stated highly inflammable materials were stored in the building's basement. He accused the AAP of playing politics over the tragedy. Sood highlighted past fire incidents and the previous government's inaction on modernizing the fire service.
Delhi Metro is building 14 new interchange stations. These will connect Pink and Magenta lines with other existing metro routes. Commuters will experience easier transfers with new foot overbridges, ramps, and underground passages. Travelators will assist passengers at busy hubs. Color-coded signs will guide travelers. This expansion aims for seamless travel across Delhi's metro network.
A young Mumbai entrepreneur, Aman Goel, who exited his AI startup Cogno AI, shared his thoughtful approach to managing newfound wealth. Instead of extravagant spending, he prioritized relocating his parents, investing in his health by losing 15 kgs, and purchasing a home outright. He also built a support system for his demanding professional life.

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