The Economic Times

Banks mobilised $132.9 billion through FCNR(B) deposits under the RBIs special forex swap window, taking total inflows, including ECBs and OFCBs, to $143.5 billion by September 18. The inflows are more than five times those raised under a similar 2013 scheme, with banks raising a significant portion in the final 10 days. While the FCNR(B) facility continues to support dollar inflows, rising global bond yields may weigh on further overseas borrowing through ECBs and OFCBs, which remains available

A new study reveals black holes become predictable when feeding. Jets emerge when accretion rates fall to two percent of the Eddington limit. This threshold applies to black holes of vastly different sizes. Tidal disruption events offer a rare view of this process. Future observations may predict when these powerful jets will appear.

India's skipper Shreyas Iyer highlighted cricket's growing global reach. The team is playing a historic bilateral T20 match in Japan. This game marks seventy-five years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. India arrived in Tokyo on Sunday before heading to Nagoya for the Asian Games. The skipper expressed excitement for the upcoming match against the host nation.

India-New Zealand FTA kicks in from October 20: The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement will come into force on October 20, giving Indian exporters duty-free access to New Zealand across all tariff lines from day one. The pact aims to double bilateral goods and services trade to around Rs 35,000 crore by 2030, while protecting sensitive Indian sectors such as dairy and several agricultural products. It also provides greater market access for select New Zealand products and includes provisions

CMF, the budget sub-brand of Nothing, is transitioning to become an independent company based in India. With ambitions to design and sell 100 million smartphones globally each year, CMF will be largely owned by Indian investors and headquartered domestically. Through this partnership, Nothing will lend its engineering expertise and supply chain relationships, aiming to create a significant homegrown player in the global consumer electronics market.

Quote of the day by Bruce Willis: Bruce Willis' career exemplified confidence, overcoming a childhood stutter through acting. His family revealed his frontotemporal dementia diagnosis after aphasia was identified. He is currently unaware of his illness due to anosognosia, a neurological condition. His family now advocates for greater understanding and research into the disease. Willis' legacy of resilience and humor continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Retail associations are voicing concerns that the proposed UPI charge will inevitably be transferred to consumers, either as new fees on bills or by incentivizing the use of cash payments. Small businesses, already operating with tight margins, find it difficult to absorb these costs, leading to fears that additional financial burdens will further strain their operations.

An ancient Egyptian pot discovered in a Cornwall garage has helped researchers connect a forgotten family possession with the archaeological work of Flinders Petrie. Guy Funnell and Amanda Hawkins found the battered black and red vessel while clearing family belongings and contacted Alice Stevenson, curator of the Petrie Museum. Its surviving cardboard label identified it as Libyan Pottery from 3,000 B.C. and carried a number that linked it to Petries excavation records. Researchers later establ

Bharat Biotech is back in action after a two-year post-Covid reset, founder Krishna Ella says, with the company expanding beyond vaccines into cell and gene therapy and monoclonal antibodies. The vaccine maker is advancing programmes for TB, Nipah, Ebola, chikungunya, malaria, Zika and antimicrobial resistance, while exploring an IPO to fund new therapies and potential acquisitions. Ella says the company, which currently has around Rs 2,000 crore in revenue and is debt-free, is focused on accele

Suchika Tariyal reached notable heights by clinching a bronze medal in the women's traditional 60kg mixed martial arts category, even as she faced a tough semifinal defeat against Singapore's Hui Hoon Teo, where weight differences played a critical role. This achievement stands out as India's inaugural medal in this sport at the Games.

This year's Ganesh Chaturthi witnessed a 15% drop in gold sales volume compared to the previous year. Consumers opted for lighter gold pieces and exchanged old jewelry amid high prices. Nonetheless, sales of bullion coins and bars reflect cautious optimism among investors. Despite the decline, both wedding and self-purchase demands from younger buyers remain robust, signaling a potential increase in demand as the wedding season approaches.

The government is considering tougher medical device rules that could give regulators explicit powers to stop the manufacture, sale or distribution of unsafe, defective, substandard or spurious products and order their destruction. The proposed amendment to Rule 30(1) of the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, is aimed at strengthening enforcement, reducing ambiguity and ensuring potentially harmful devices are removed from circulation more quickly.

National highway contractors must obtain government permits for hiring foreign workers. Any change in concessionaire ownership requires prior designated authority approval. Such employment is subject to regulatory approvals, including visas and work permits. Refusal of permits will not excuse concessionaires from their contractual obligations. The ministry issued a revised model concession agreement for national highways.

India's revamped GDP calculation incorporates extensive corporate filings and GST data, as revealed by the statistics ministry. This update emphasizes the integration of company-level information for a more precise estimation of private corporate sector activities. Furthermore, an innovative methodology leverages corporate filings and LLP records to enhance industry classification, while surveys are used for direct assessments of the household and unincorporated sectors.

Bandhan Financial Services will reduce its stake in Bandhan Bank gradually. The promoter aims to comply with RBI regulations by 2030. Recent share sales occurred on the open market, lowering holdings. A proposed stock split will divide shares to attract retail investors. Shareholders will review this plan at the upcoming annual general meeting.

The prolonged suspension of TV ratings has intensified pressure on the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to restore audience measurement, with broadcasters seeking greater revenue visibility and advertiser confidence ahead of the festive season. BARC is working to meet the governments TV rating guidelines, including expanding its panel to 80,000 and increasing independent representation on its board, while TAM India and Chrome DM have also applied to offer measurement services. Industry b

Government may end UPI subsidies for small transactions as merchant fees are introduced. Taxpayer-funded incentives for UPI and RuPay transactions are being phased out. No new subsidies have been paid for transactions since April 2025. This shift aims to make the payment ecosystem self-sustaining and reduce taxpayer burden. Incentive disbursements have significantly decreased in recent fiscal years.

The Supreme Court rejected the Centre's plea regarding private complaints in fraud cases. Special courts cannot take cognisance of such complaints filed under the Companies Act. The court allowed the Centre to authorize officers to file complaints in these matters. This ruling ensures further scrutiny before fraud allegations are considered. The decision stemmed from a case involving former directors of Shreemukh Namitha Homes.

The power ministry is considering extending specific provisions to the Mundra power plant, allowing it to function at maximum capacity until December. This decision stems from the heightened power demands nationwide. Additionally, supplementary power purchase agreements are in the works with multiple states to address the ongoing energy shortages across the country.

Antoine Arnault, the 49-year-old executive in his father's sprawling luxury empire LVMH, is the latest to join the roster of wealthy shareholders in Delage Automobiles. The French company, which is undergoing a revival, makes limited-edition cars that cost at least 2 million ($2.3 million) each and competes in the same market as Bugatti and Koenigsegg.

The government is prioritizing demands from the material recycling sector and aims to fast-track reforms. A new incentive scheme for recycling critical minerals is in the pipeline. The minister stressed the importance of adopting innovative technologies and promoting environmental sustainability in recycling practices. Additionally, the association advocated for the elimination of the Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate for metal scrap imports, along with the removal of import duties on aluminiu

Jamie Dimon sees India as a fast-growing economy with bright future prospects. He believes consistent regulations and taxing policies will strengthen foreign investment. The RBI's plan to raise dollars is viewed as appropriate for supporting the rupee. AI is a real investment, though its long-term revenue generation remains uncertain. Dimon supports transparency and good governance, especially concerning Tata Group's leadership.

New guidelines for high-speed access-controlled national highways have been released by NHAI. These standards aim to ensure uniformity and improve road safety across the network. The move will apply to all upcoming four and six-lane greenfield and brownfield projects. India plans to develop 50,000 km of these corridors by 2047. This initiative seeks to boost connectivity and reduce logistics costs nationwide.

India's core sector output growth slowed to 4.8 percent in August. This easing was due to contractions in energy sectors and an unfavorable base. Fertilizer production declined significantly for the sixth consecutive month. However, electricity and cement sectors showed strong growth during this period. Cumulative core sector growth for April-August rose to 4.3 percent.

In 2013, John and Jennifer Church bought a 120-year-old textile mill planning to sell the land, but changed plans after discovering its historic brickwork. The Chronicle Mill in Belmont, North Carolina, was converted into a mixed-use development with 238 apartments, commercial space and a public coworking area. The $60 million adaptive reuse project opened in 2023 after construction, environmental and pandemic-related delays.

'I usually don't misspeak, but': Vance drops Fart Left zinger at North Carolina rally | Midterms

The Finance Ministry urged bank employees to resolve demands through dialogue and avoid strikes. Most union concerns have been addressed, and welfare measures are being introduced. A three-day strike is planned from September 28, impacting banking services. This strike coincides with the half-yearly closing of the banking sector. The government remains committed to employee welfare and constructive engagement.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed alarming fidayeen attacks, underscoring the dire internal security landscape of Pakistan. The government grapples with the dual challenge of safeguarding its own troops and depending on militias for security. Diplomatic initiatives aimed at reducing friction with Afghanistan have fallen flat. Meanwhile, a new defense alliance invites doubt amid an unpredictable US-Iran relationship that threatens to entangle Pakistan in its own security issues.

The Sun moves into Libra on September 22, beginning a season astrologically connected with relationships, compromise, diplomacy and the search for balance. The early energy favors collaboration and finding common ground instead of trying to handle everything independently. October, however, brings a shift that could make maintaining that harmony considerably more complicated.

Opposition parties have formed a 21-member panel to protest the drug menace. They will launch an indefinite sit-in at Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's home. This action follows alleged attacks on those raising concerns about drug abuse. The committee demands an FIR against a minister and police officials. The AAP government has criticized the opposition's move as a political spectacle.

India will study the US sanctions act and its potential trade impact. Exports are growing at a healthy rate despite global complications. India and Canada aim to fast-track their economic partnership negotiations. The India-EU trade pact is expected to come into force soon. Good news is anticipated regarding India's trade pact with Chile.

Jack Ma believes people with dreams are more crucial than money for business success. He argues that capital can be found for convincing ideas and capable teams. Extraordinary commitment, not literal sacrifice, defines those who pursue their ambitious goals. Alibaba's early history demonstrates the importance of employees holding their own dreams. This philosophy highlights conviction as a driving force, not just funding, for ambitious ventures.

The autumn session of the J&K Assembly began amid protests, with BJP MLAs disrupting Question Hour over alleged governance failures, while NC and Congress legislators raised slogans demanding the restoration of statehood. Other opposition members joined the protests, while PDP leader Waheed Para moved an adjournment motion on the rationalisation of reservations in J&K.

Quote of the Day by Oscar Wilde: A timeless observation by Oscar Wilde offers a different way of looking at love, romance and the desire to feel special in someones life. His witty words draw a striking contrast between being a persons first love and occupying a very different place at the other end of their romantic journey. The idea raises an intriguing question about whether being first is really what matters most in a relationship.

Jayanti Prasad has taken additional charge as Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India Chairperson. He succeeds Ravi Mital, who completed his tenure after turning sixty-five last week. Prasad will serve in this role until November 20, 2026, or until a successor is appointed. The government has already initiated the process to find a full-time replacement. This appointment is in addition to his existing duties as a Whole Time Member.

Inox Clean Energy is close to acquiring Athena Renewables from Actis. This transaction is nearing conclusion with an in-principle agreement reached. The acquisition would significantly boost Inox Clean Energy's renewable capacity. Athena Renewables operates four solar power plants with over 554 MW. These assets have a strong operational track record and long-term agreements.

A developer planned a beer garden at a vacant aviation plant, but the idea changed after the site was discovered. The former Stanley Aviation building became Stanley Marketplace, a $25 million, 22-acre community hub with 140,000 square feet of space. The project brought together more than 50 independent Colorado businesses, including restaurants, shops, a brewery, a gymnastics studio and workspaces.

Class 12 student Prithwish developed the idea of a soundproof hammer after renovation work at his home exposed him to prolonged construction noise. Interested in science and technology, he proposed covering the hammer with a foam-like material to absorb impact and reduce noise. While economics is his favourite subject, he reads science books and hopes to become a businessman like his father.

A National Task Force report flags campus competition and caste as major issues. Over 13,600 students from disadvantaged communities dropped out of premier institutions. A significant mismatch exists between socially advantaged faculty and diverse student populations. Intense academic competition and a vibe check culture contribute to student isolation. Institutions need better mental health support and systematic screening mechanisms.

Maharashtra FDA faces systemic pressures amid pushback from large restaurant chains. The agency is proceeding with hygiene crackdowns based on data and inspections. Licenses have been suspended for various violations, including unhygienic kitchens. Food safety requires a public movement and a 360-degree approach. The FDA is examining all establishments with the same impartial lens.

The Calcutta High Court permitted the Mamata Banerjee faction to operate three frozen bank accounts. The state police had frozen these accounts due to alleged illegal transactions. The court clarified that the ECI's interim order does not affect its decision. This ruling allows the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool to access funds until January 29, 2027. The ECI had previously granted separate symbols and names to two Trinamool factions.

Kenya has demonstrated how agricultural waste can become a source of energy, with 45,000 tonnes of vegetable waste converted into biogas at Vegpros Naivasha facility. Methane produced through the process was used to generate electricity for daily farm operations. The example forms part of a wider discussion around waste-to-energy technologies, including incineration, gasification and pyrolysis. Incineration can drive a turbine to produce electricity and reduce waste volume by 95-96%, while gasif

Ichor Biologics is seeking eighty to one hundred million dollars from private equity investors. The Hyderabad-based company operates in the specialized plasmatherapy segment. Promoters Ananda Reddy Sudini and Sujana Sudini hold significant stakes in the firm. Ichor manufactures therapeutic protein products derived from human plasma. The company's products serve various critical therapeutic areas.

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Jennifer Eckhart, a former producer at Fox News, died by suicide at her Florida residence. She became known for her significant lawsuit against anchor Ed Henry, alleging sexual assault, which ended with settlements and dismissals. Afterward, Eckhart dedicated herself to helping others through her podcast about overcoming challenges and rebuilding lives, six years after her initial legal claim.

Starbucks will hire 800 employees for its first Indian technology hub. The company signed an agreement with the Tamil Nadu government for this center. This global capability center will operate independently of its retail joint venture. Chennai was chosen for its skilled professionals and state government incentives. This move highlights Tamil Nadu's growing appeal for global technology firms.

On September 19, 1991, German mountaineers Helmut and Erika Simon were hiking across the Tisenjoch ridge in the tztal Alps along the border between Austria and Italy. Stepping off the marked trail near the Hauslabjoch pass at an altitude of 3,210 meters, they noticed something unusual emerging from the melting ice of the Schnalstal glacier. A human torso lay face down in a pool of meltwater, dark skin stretched tightly across frozen bone. Believing they had stumbled upon an unfortunate modern cl

The Supreme Court will urgently hear Mamata Banerjee's petition challenging the Election Commission's interim decision. This decision had frozen the Trinamool Congress name and its election symbol. The Election Commission barred both factions from using the party's original identity. This interim arrangement is significant ahead of the upcoming October 6 bypolls. The court will allow both sides to present their arguments on the matter.

Rahul Gandhi has expressed his outrage regarding the harassment of two students in Jamui, Bihar, emphasizing the need for a robust state response. He urged for immediate and decisive action against the offenders. Meanwhile, Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the incident, asserting it highlights the BJP's inconsistent stance on women's safety and called for severe punishment for the perpetrators, reinforcing the necessity of accountability in state governance.

Pakistan conducted airstrikes inside Afghanistan early Monday, causing casualties. Afghan officials reported three deaths and six injuries from the Pakistani military action. Pakistan claimed twenty-eight militants were killed during the recent cross-border strikes. The United Nations documented significant civilian casualties from earlier Pakistani strikes. Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai criticized Pakistan's decision to expel Afghan students.