The Economic Times News

The year 2025 saw trade wars, a Gaza truce and ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Looking ahead, 2026 promises space missions, the Winter Olympics and an expanded football World Cup.

This new phase, expected to last up to 55 days, targets a tighter search zone of about 5,800 square miles -- far smaller than earlier efforts and pinpointed using updated satellite data, drift modeling and expert analysis.

Chinese New Year 2026: The 2026 Lunar New Year begins on February 17, marking the rare Year of the Fire Horse. It lasts 16 days and ends with the Lantern Festival on March 3, coinciding with a blood moon total lunar eclipse. The Fire Horse year brings dynamic energy, bold action, and rare astrological events. Family reunions, global celebrations, and celestial alignments make it a unique, highly anticipated festival worldwide. Zodiac enthusiasts should check animal signs and traditions, as lunar

Many Americans receive unwanted Christmas gifts each year. Over $10 billion in presents go unused annually. Items range from clothing and accessories to electronics and gift cards. Instead of letting them sit unused, gifts can be sold online, donated for tax benefits, or exchanged for cash. Learn how to reclaim value, declutter your home, and turn gifts into financial or charitable gain.

Even some of those who supported the rate cut acknowledged he decision was finely balanced or that they could have supported keeping the target range unchanged, given the different risks facing the U.S. economy, according to the minutes released on Tuesday.

Gen Z is leading global change, impacting governments, economies, and work culture. In India, their spending power is set to surge, fueling innovation. This generation's aspirations are crucial for India's AI-led future. Leaders across sectors share insights on their influence and the path ahead.

India's Gen Z, numbering 380 million, is a powerful force driving change. This generation is impacting innovation, politics, and spending habits. Their direct and influenced spending is set to grow significantly. Gen Z's evolving preferences for celebrations, online expression, and career paths highlight their unique perspective.

Gen Z is reshaping workplaces with clear expectations for growth and purpose. They seek transparent leadership and flexible environments. Companies are adapting to this new generation's drive for meaningful work and inclusion. Wellbeing and flexibility are becoming core to organizational culture. This shift signals a new era for the workforce.

India's Gen Z is not politically disengaged but rather disillusioned with traditional politics. Growing up online, they engage through digital platforms, prioritizing practical issues like jobs and climate change. This generation demands transparency and accountability, seeking meaningful participation beyond mere voting.

By 2026, artificial intelligence will make digital content indistinguishable from reality. This will force people to verify everything they see and hear. Trust in online information will decline. Verification will become a crucial skill for everyone. Platforms will need to implement safeguards against AI misuse. This shift will impact mental health and decision-making.

Political parties are increasingly recognizing the growing influence of Gen Z, adapting electoral campaigns and policies to engage this demographic. Leaders are addressing youth-centric issues like employment and drug menace, utilizing social media to connect with young voters who are becoming active participants in shaping political discourse and policy.

Gen Z graduates are increasingly launching startups, with 40% of top college alumni opting for entrepreneurship. Venture capital firms are now prioritizing innovative ideas over founder experience, backing young entrepreneurs in sectors like AI and clean energy. The trend is expected to expand into defense, aerospace, and deeptech in the coming years.

IRS warns of possible delays in 2026 tax refunds. New deductions for tips and overtime complicate filings. Staff cuts and high turnover leave the agency struggling. TIGTA flags potential $360 million fraud risk. Paper returns may slow processing. Taxpayers should prepare early and review updated IRS guidance. Filing season may test IRS capacity like never before.

Trump tax cuts could reshape the 2026 tax season for millions of Americans. New IRS data shows refunds may reach $1,000 to $2,000 for many households. Withholding rules lagged behind the laws passage. Five states may also see stronger Social Security increases. Retirees and workers could feel combined relief. Filing deadlines and preparation details matter.

Gold, silver, and copper prices are ending 2025 on a strong note, setting up an intense outlook for 2026. Analysts see rising policy risks, tight supply, and structural demand driving metals higher. Forecasts from major banks suggest gold could hit $5,000, silver may test $100, and copper could remain historically tight as electrification and AI demand accelerate.

Tatiana Schlossberg was an accomplished American environmental journalist and the granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. She passed away on December 30, 2025, at the age of 35. Her death followed a terminal diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with a rare genetic mutation known as Inversion 3.

Thought of the Day: B.F. Skinner, a renowned behaviorist, offers a powerful perspective on failure. He suggests that not all setbacks are mistakes, but rather the best possible outcome under certain conditions. The true error lies in ceasing to try. This thought encourages resilience and continuous effort, vital for growth and learning. Skinner's work profoundly shaped our understanding of behavior.

Federal Reserve ended 2025 with a sharply divided decision on interest rates. Newly released December meeting minutes show officials narrowly backed a rate cut, while deeply disagreeing on what comes next. With inflation still elevated, growth strong, and jobs steady, the path for 2026 rate cuts looks increasingly uncertain. The December 910 Federal Open Market Committee meeting concluded with a 93 vote to cut rates by 25 basis points.

The first full moon of 2026, a 'Wolf Supermoon,' will rise on Saturday, January 3rd. This celestial event, the last of four consecutive supermoons, will appear brighter and larger than average. The moon will be technically full at 5:03 a.m. EST, but the best viewing time will be during its rise at dusk.

Wealth quote of the day by Bill Ackman: Investing is one of the few businesses where you can do everything right and still lose money in the short term. What matters is a strategy that works long termand the discipline to ignore the noise. Bill Ackman, the founder of Pershing Square Capital Management, is a name synonymous with high-stakes Wall Street drama. Ackman has spent decades perfecting a strategy known as activist investing. Unlike traditional investors who buy and sell quietly, Ackman t

IRS tax rules are changing for 2026, and Americans need to be ready. Standard deductions are going up, seniors may get extra savings, and new tax breaks on tips and overtime are coming. Refund habits are also changing, with people spending on basics. New credits and programs are planned, making early tax planning more important.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah. She questioned his claims about infiltrators in Bengal and alleged widespread deletion of voter names. Banerjee accused Shah of bringing 'Duryodhan' and 'Dushasana' to the state during elections. She stated that her government has provided land for projects but work remains incomplete.

The 700Credit data breach exposed 5.8 million Social Security numbers through a third-party partner, not its own systems. The stolen data affects auto dealership customers and raises identity theft and fraud risks. 700Credit offers free credit monitoring for affected users, and experts advise freezing credit, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication to stay safe.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that a change of government in West Bengal is vital to curb infiltration, which he described as a national security threat. He accused the Trinamool Congress of misrule and using infiltrators as a vote bank, while assuring the Matua community that their voting rights under the CAA will be protected.

In an effort to maintain public safety, several districts in Jammu and Kashmir have implemented a ban on the use of Virtual Private Networks. Local authorities are ramping up mobile surveillance to ensure adherence to these restrictions. The directive, issued by Deputy Commissioners in regions such as Kupwara, Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama, Budgam, and Srinagar, comes after intensive security evaluations.

The Enforcement Directorate has wrapped up its case against Lalu Prasad, the former railways minister, along with his wife Rabri Devi and their son, Tejashwi Yadav. The allegations stem from a 2004 hotel agreement with IRCTC, featuring serious charges of corruption, conspiracy, and deception.

In light of escalating tensions, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed serious apprehension regarding allegations that Ukraine has targeted the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Modi reiterated that the path to resolution lies in diplomatic dialogue rather than conflict. Ukraine, however, took issue with Modi's remarks, while both the UAE and Pakistan voiced their concerns.

India is now a global focus, praised for its rapid progress driven by reforms. Prime Minister Modi highlighted continuous reforms in 2025, modernizing institutions and simplifying governance. Key changes included GST simplification, new labor codes, and increased foreign investment in insurance. These measures aim to boost the economy and attract investment, positioning India for sustained growth.

In a bid to enhance voter experience, the Election Commission of India is overhauling the document verification process for those heading to the polls. This new strategy, introduced during the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, features a clear four-point plan directed at chief electoral officers.

The news of Begum Khaleda Zia's passing, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, marks the end of an era that reshaped the nations ties with India. Initially perceived as a stumbling block to regional security, her later diplomatic moves sought to mend relations, showcasing her complex political journey.

Companies get more time to file financial statements and annual returns. The deadline is now January 31, with no extra fees. This is the second extension. Stakeholders faced technical problems with the new V3 portal. The ministry is addressing these issues to ensure smooth filings for businesses across India.

Assam's Election Commission will publicly announce electoral rolls in Gram Sabhas and Municipal wards for maximum transparency, a first for the state. This initiative follows a comprehensive house-to-house verification, with the draft roll reflecting a slight increase in electors and more female voters. The final roll is expected by February 10, 2026.

Starting January 1, 2026, Utah will ban soda purchases with SNAP benefits. The law affects flavored carbonated drinks, but milk, milk substitutes, and real fruit or vegetable juice are still allowed. Other items like hot food, alcohol, tobacco, and non-food products also cannot be bought with SNAP. The change aims to improve health while SNAP benefit amounts stay the same.

Indonesia experienced several earthquakes recently. A magnitude 4.3 quake hit on December 30, 2025, at a shallow depth. Earlier, a magnitude 4.6 earthquake occurred in Northern Sumatra on December 28, 2025. Another magnitude 4.4 quake struck Northern Sumatra on December 3, 2025. A magnitude 4.5 earthquake also hit Northern Sumatra on November 26, 2025.

Saudi Arabia bombed Mukalla, Yemen, targeting weapons for separatists. This move by the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council threatens trade routes. The UAE announced a troop withdrawal. The conflict involves complex regional powers and has caused a humanitarian crisis. The STC's advances have shattered a fragile stalemate, highlighting strained ties between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Predator: Badlands centers on a young Predator named Dek, an outcast from his clan, who discovers an unexpected ally in Thia, featured by Elle Fanning. Set on a remote, perilous planet, Dek goes through a dangerous scenario filled with apex predators, which includes the massive Kalisk, in search of the final adversary. Unlike previous movies, no human characters are present, providing a fresh view on the Predator universe.

Fallout Season 2 Episode 3 release date, time, schedule and how to watch details are now confirmed. The episode streams on Prime Video on December 31, 2025. Viewers can check global timings, full episode schedule, cast details, and story updates in this explainer.

Top destinations in India to celebrate New Year 2026: India presents diverse New Year's Eve options, from vibrant city parties in Goa and Mumbai to serene nature retreats in Chikmagalur and Auroville. Travelers can choose between energetic celebrations with music and fireworks or peaceful escapes amidst snow-capped mountains and tranquil landscapes, catering to every preference for welcoming the new year.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed discussions with Donald Trump regarding the potential deployment of US troops. These troops would be part of security guarantees for Ukraine. Zelensky also stated Kyiv's commitment to ongoing peace talks and his readiness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The discussions highlight Ukraine's pursuit of robust security arrangements.

The United Arab Emirates is pulling its troops out of Yemen. This follows a demand from Saudi Arabia to withdraw within 24 hours. Tensions are high due to an offensive by separatists backed by Abu Dhabi. The UAE denies supporting the separatists' advance. This move comes after a dispute with Riyadh over military operations near Saudi Arabia's border.

Turkish President Erdogan has strongly criticized Israel's recognition of Somaliland, calling it illegal and destabilizing for the Horn of Africa. Turkey is set to begin offshore energy drilling in Somalia in 2026. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a spaceport in Somalia as part of bilateral agreements between the two nations.

An election tribunal in Pakistan's Punjab province dismissed a petition challenging Nawaz Sharif's victory in the February 2024 general elections. The petition, filed by PTI's Yasmin Rashid, alleged vote manipulation and that Sharif lost the NA-130 seat. The tribunal cited technical grounds for dismissal, stating the petitioner failed to comply with election law requirements.

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar discussed regional tensions with Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister. This follows Saudi strikes in Yemen. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also met with the UAE President. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and the UAE. Both meetings highlight Pakistan's engagement with key regional players amidst evolving dynamics.

Greg Abel is set to lead Berkshire Hathaway. He will succeed Warren Buffett soon. Abel has managed non-insurance businesses since 2018. Buffett will remain chairman, offering guidance. Some leadership changes are happening. Abel's approach may refine operations. Investors anticipate his management style. Berkshire's strong foundation supports this transition.