The Economic Times News

Allu Arjun and his wife Sneha Reddy faced a frightening situation at a cafe in Hyderabad after they were mobbed by fans taking selfies. The 'Pushpa' actor was seen holding and protecting his wife as the crowd became overwhelming and the duo were surrounded by a packed crowd of fans. Allu Arjun took a moment to wave and greet the fans after his wife sat inside the car safely.

Free Fire MAX Redeem Codes January 5: Free Fire MAX players can claim premium loot for free on January 5, 2026, using redeem codes. These alphanumeric codes offer exclusive skins, weapons, and cosmetic items. Players must act fast as codes have limited redemption caps and expire quickly. Redeeming is done via the official rewards portal, requiring a linked account.

Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal revealed that customers are using AI-generated images to fraudulently claim refunds for food orders. He also shared personal experiences of being bullied as a child due to his dark skin color and stammer, which significantly impacted his self-confidence.

Many view EMIs as a minor expense, but debt is approved based on strong income periods and demanded during weaker ones. Fluctuating income or unexpected events can make a manageable EMI a significant burden. Financial experts advise committing to debt levels that are sustainable even in lean months, ensuring financial stability.

The Critics Choice Awards 2026 have concluded. One Battle After Another secured the top prize for Best Picture. Timothee Chalamet won Best Actor for Marty Supreme. Jessie Buckley took home Best Actress for Hamnet. The awards recognised achievements in both film and television. Check out the full list!

Cathay Cargo is boosting its presence in India. The air freight operator sees India as a key market and a growing manufacturing center. The company plans more investments to support this expansion. Initiatives like Make in India and Gati Shakti are driving this growth. Cathay Cargo is eager to be part of India's dynamic journey.

Universal Music Group has acquired a 30% stake in Excel Entertainment. This deal values the Bollywood production house at 2,400 crore. Excel Entertainment will retain creative control. UMG gains a strategic foothold in the video business. This partnership aims to take culturally rooted stories globally. It highlights a renewed wave of consolidation in the media industry.

Network18 has renewed its decade-long partnership with CNN International for its English news channel, CNN-News18, extending the agreement through December 31, 2035. This renewed collaboration will significantly enhance the channel's digital presence, expanding its reach on platforms like YouTube and Connected TV to a global audience.

China and Pakistan are set to boost collaboration across industry, agriculture, and mining. They will also expand trade, investment, and IT cooperation. Financial and banking sectors will see strengthened ties. Both nations are pushing for clear actions to dismantle terrorist groups in Afghanistan. This partnership aims for mutual growth and regional stability.

Quote of the day by Frida Kahlo: Frida Kahlo, the renowned Mexican painter, transformed her personal suffering into powerful art and fearless self-expression. Despite lifelong health challenges, she created a body of work that continues to inspire millions worldwide.

Runwal Enterprises is developing a massive Rs 20,000 crore township in Alibaug. The 200-acre project will feature residential and commercial spaces, a five-star hotel, and a golf course. This large-scale development, planned over seven years, highlights Alibaug's growing appeal as a prime destination. The company is investing Rs 9,000 crore in this ambitious venture.

Nitin Landge, a rebel candidate, has challenged Siddharth Pandey, the Shiv Sena nominee for Thane Municipal Corporation's ward no. 4. Landge stated he will withdraw his independent candidacy if Pandey can demonstrate any development initiative undertaken in the area. Landge resigned from Yuva Sena after being denied the nomination. He alleges the ticket was granted under pressure.

A bus travelling from Sanchore to Jaipur overturned late Sunday night near Ahore Police Station. Three people died in the accident. At least ten others sustained injuries. Police and locals conducted rescue operations. Injured passengers are receiving treatment. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Sunday created a commission to seek the release of president Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, who were removed from power by US forces in Caracas. Rodriguez tapped her brother Jorge, president of the National Assembly, and Foreign Minister Yvan Gil to co-chair the commission.

Sharib Hashmi, known for his roles in The Family Man, Filmistaan and Asur, revealed that his wife Nasreen was diagnosed with oral cancer when he landed a role with The Family Man. Nasreen underwent four surgeries and the couple was even forced to sell their house amid financial hardships. Sharib Hashmi has credited his wife for standing with him during his tough times.

Punes Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, criticised local leadership for failing to utilise substantial state and central funds for the citys development. He highlighted issues such as water scarcity, waste management, poor road conditions, and rising crime, urging voters to elect representatives of their choice. Pawars remarks have reportedly strained relations with his ally, the BJP.

Rosa Parks' powerful quote, The only tired I was, was tired of giving in, transcends physical exhaustion to represent a profound moral weariness with injustice. Her quiet act of defiance on a Montgomery bus in 1955, fueled by a lifetime of inequality, ignited the civil rights movement and continues to inspire resolute stands for justice.

Delhi Lok Adalat 2026 Link and Token Registration: Delhi motorists get a chance to clear minor traffic e-challans on January 10, 2026, during a National Lok Adalat. This one-day event at district court complexes offers quick settlements for eligible violations, potentially reducing or waiving fines. Advance online registration is crucial for participation, providing a swift resolution for everyday traffic offenses.

Toronto Zoo has confirmed the death of Kiko, a 13-year-old Masai giraffe. The animal died on January 1, 2026, after a behind-the-scenes accident. Kiko became trapped in an opening door while exploring a new area. Despite immediate care, the giraffe sustained fatal injuries. Kiko was part of a breeding program and an important ambassador for his endangered species.

Widespread protests have gripped Iran, fueled by economic woes and a collapsing currency, now trading at some 1.4 million to $1. The Islamic Republic faces mounting pressure as its Axis of Resistance weakens and U.S. threats loom. Decades of tense U.S.-Iran relations, marked by revolution and conflict, continue to shape the volatile regional landscape.

US control of Venezuela: US President Donald Trump asserted American control over Venezuela following a military operation that struck near Caracas, claiming no US casualties. Meanwhile, residents in Catia La Mar described widespread damage and fear, with homes destroyed and shrapnel impacting their properties. Conflicting accounts persist regarding the operation's toll.

The Supreme Court on Monday will pronounce its verdict on the bail pleas of Sharjeel Imam, Umar Khalid and several others, who have challenged the Delhi High Court order denying them bail in a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) linked to the alleged larger conspiracy behind the 2020 north-east Delhi riots.

Aman Duggal, a 17-year-old, has gone viral for clearing his mother's 10,000 debt. The emotional video shows a heartfelt exchange as Aman surprises his mother. He expressed his love and gratitude, promising to cover her monthly bills. His mother was overwhelmed with emotion. Aman shared his pride in finally being able to care for her.

Samsung unveiled its AI Living vision at CES 2026, integrating AI across its ecosystem of screens, appliances, and wearables. The company aims to make AI a constant, personal companion, moving beyond novelty to necessity. This includes AI-enhanced TVs, smart appliances with food management, and proactive health monitoring, all secured by Knox.

Kannan Pattambi, a respected figure in Malayalam cinema, has passed away. He was known for his work as a production controller and his acting roles in films like Pulimurugan and Odiyan. Pattambi contributed to the industry for nearly three decades. His elder brother, Major Ravi, confirmed the news. The funeral was held at his residence.

Flight cancellations today: Adverse weather, including dense fog and snowfall, disrupted flight operations across India on Sunday and Monday. Flights to and from Leh were suspended due to snowfall, while fog caused delays and cancellations in several other cities. Passengers are advised to check flight status and plan accordingly.

HDFC Bank said on Monday that its deposits rose 2.1% sequentially in the December quarter, while gross advances increased 2.7% from the previous quarter.

Following a U.S. military operation in Venezuela, President Trump reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland for national security, citing Russian and Chinese presence. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Rubio warned Cuba, stating its government is in severe trouble and its economy will further decline after Maduro's ouster.

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that Cuba was ready to fall after US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, noting that Havana would struggle without subsidized Venezuelan oil. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump downplayed the need for any US military action in Cuba, saying, I dont think we need any action. It looks like its going down.

In Why Not Socialism?, G.A. Cohen uses humour and a camping-trip metaphor to highlight human differences and personal limits. By joking about discomfort and preferences, he argues that fairness should respect individual capacities. Equality, Cohen suggests, is not about equal suffering but about cooperation, mutual respect, and justice that acknowledges real human needs.

Katie Miller, wife of a top White House official, posted a map of Greenland with the U.S. flag, sparking speculation of a Trump administration annexation. While Denmark and Greenland officials expressed disapproval, some observers believe the U.S. is serious about acquiring the territory for national security.

Cuba said on Sunday that 32 of its citizens were killed during the U.S. operation in Venezuela that captured President Nicolas Maduro. Havana announced two days of mourning on January 5 and 6, with funeral arrangements to be shared later.

New shows and movies are arriving on OTT platforms this week. From January 5 to January 11, viewers can enjoy action-packed films like Akhanda 2 and thrillers such as Mask. Romance fans can watch De De Pyaar De 2. Medical drama The Pitt Season 2, and espionage series The Night Manager, Season 2, are also available. Read on!

US President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened possible military action against Colombia, saying such an operation sounds good to me. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump accused Colombias leadership of being involved in cocaine production and trafficking to the United States, in remarks aimed at President Gustavo Petro.

North Korea said leader Kim Jong Un observed test flights of hypersonic missiles and stressed the need to strengthen the countrys nuclear deterrent, as it steps up weapons displays ahead of a key ruling party conference. The announcement followed reports by South Korea and its neighbours of multiple ballistic missile launches.

US President Donald Trump said Washington could raise tariffs on Indian goods if New Delhi does not address US concerns over Indias purchases of Russian oil. India became the largest buyer of discounted Russian seaborne crude after the Ukraine war began in 2022, drawing criticism from Western nations that say the trade supports Moscows war effort.

If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, heres a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 84th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains what this employee incentive means.

A weak rupee is making global mobility costlier by the day.

The annual returns are ranked for 6 key NSE Factor indices, with a broad-based index, Nifty 500, thrown in for comparison. This map shows that no single-factor strategy consistently outperforms, making a strong case for diversification. By Sameer Bhardwaj.

Lower rates dont guarantee a good loan. Check your EMI limits, compare rates and cut loan costs.

By removing Section 213 and amending Section 370(1) of the Indian Succession Act, the recently passed Repealing and Amending Act, 2025 places the wills of a deceased Hindu, Jain, Sikh, Parsi, or Buddhist person in Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai on par with those in the rest of the country.

Out of 71 international funds that are available in the Indian mutual fund market, only 28 are accepting investments, while 6 ETFs can be traded on exchanges, writes Abhinav Kaul.

Many of our resolutions are planned steps in the right direction. We know that what we are setting out to do is good, but giving up the joys of an entrenched habit or behaviour is tougher than the perceived pleasures of acquiring a new one. Finding a coach, a partner, a well-wisher to goad us on helps.

While selling may fetch a better price, there are situations under which scrapping may be your only option.

Gen Zs SIP-first, DIY investing style is shifting incremental mutual fund inflows towards digital platforms.

Investors need to treat their SIPs as genuinely non-negotiable commitments. They need to stop watching their portfolios frequently because every look creates an opportunity for destructive action. Data suggests that the investors who started SIPs a decade ago and forgot about it, would be substantially richer today than those who actively managed their investments.

Lower funding costs, loan growth momentum, and robust fundamentals to propel banking sector stocks.

From global diversification to large-cap focus, NPS upgrades to AI adoption heres how to protect your wealth and grow richer in the New Year.