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The Economic Times

Global Business / The Economic Times

Chinese patrols to Taiwan's east are 'destabilising', US Congress-appointed official says

US officials highlight the destabilizing nature of China's coast guard patrols near Taiwan's east coast. Randall Schriver notes that such actions extend China's claims and involve legal and information warfare. Joseph Wu asserts that China has no legitimate rights to these waters surrounding the island. Delays are expected in US arms sales to Taiwan as negotiations continue between the leaders of the US and China.

20 Oct 2026 9:06 am
Gary Kirsten, who coached India to 2011 World Cup win, praises Pakistan's beauty after Margalla Hills visit in Islamabad

Gary Kirsten, who coached India to the 2011 Cricket World Cup title, praised Pakistan's natural beauty after cycling through Islamabad's Margalla Hills. The Sri Lanka head coach also expressed interest in exploring Pakistan's northern regions.

20 Oct 2026 8:54 am
Gold slips as investors weigh Fed rate outlook

Gold slipped in early Asian trade on Tuesday as investors awaited the US Federal Reserve policy decision next week for signals on interest rates and the broader outlook for monetary policy.

20 Oct 2026 7:30 am
The midterm election outcomes that could shape Trump's final two years

Americans will vote in the November 3 midterm elections to decide control of Congress for the final two years of President Donald Trump's term. Democrats need to gain four seats each in the House and Senate to overturn Republican majorities. While Democrats are widely expected to win the House, the Senate race remains too close to call.

20 Oct 2026 7:22 am
As midterms loom, Trump seizes on France unrest for political gain

Protests in France erupt over high inflation, leading to political discussions in the US midterm elections. President Donald Trump cites these events to advocate for stricter immigration policies and bolster support for his party. Analysts suggest that while this strategy may resonate with his base, it overlooks pressing domestic issues prioritized by most voters. Experts note that the economy remains the primary concern among Americans in upcoming elections.

20 Oct 2026 7:08 am
Oil eases as markets assess potential waiver on Russian energy, Middle East supply risks

Oil prices fell on Tuesday as markets weighed an executive order from US President Donald Trump that waived some sanctions and tariffs tied to Russian energy exports, while attacks on Saudi Arabia and Yemen kept fears of Middle East supply disruptions in view.

20 Oct 2026 6:56 am
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth meets Netanyahu in unannounced visit to Israel, reports Axios

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an unannounced trip. This visit occurred shortly after US President Donald Trump endorsed Netanyahu for the upcoming parliamentary election. The election will be Israel's first since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which caused significant turmoil. Opinion polls indicate Netanyahu's coalition may lose its governing majority amidst these developments.

20 Oct 2026 6:55 am
World Bank seeks to boost connectivity in developing countries

The World Bank announced a new strategy to improve connectivity and digital access in developing nations. This initiative aims to lower the cost of smartphones and broadband services while expanding digital service accessibility. As developing countries face a job creation shortfall, enhanced digital infrastructure is necessary for economic growth. The bank emphasizes the disparity of internet usage between low-income and high-income countries.

20 Oct 2026 6:46 am
How France's worst rioting in years erupted and how the government responded

Recent rioting in France has led to significant violence, with clashes between police and protesters occurring in major cities. Thousands of arrests were made amid widespread looting and damage to businesses. Protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions occurred alongside the violence. President Macron has condemned the unrest and pledged an uncompromising response to the riots.

20 Oct 2026 6:26 am
Trump open to trilateral talks with Putin and Xi on Ukraine war, with or without Zelenskyy

Donald Trump indicated a readiness to meet with Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping to discuss the Ukraine war. He mentioned that negotiations can proceed even without Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump criticized Zelenskyy's handling of the conflict and suggested new leadership for negotiations. This potential trilateral meeting aims for denuclearization and could be arranged during his visit to Asia.

20 Oct 2026 6:13 am
Trump thanks 'legendary friend' Elon Musk for plan to donate SpaceX shares to American children

Billionaire Elon Musk announced plans to donate SpaceX shares to every child in America. The initiative is part of the Trump Accounts program, which aims to provide financial foundations for children. More than 4.5 billion USD has already been contributed to these accounts since their launch. Families and private-sector donors can contribute directly to these children's accounts. This program mainly benefits middle-class households with children under 18 years old.

20 Oct 2026 6:04 am
Japan launches spacecraft to mysterious moons of Mars in a bold mission to bring home soil samples

Five of the worlds space agencies joined forces for the five-year mission that will attempt to land a robotic prospector plus a rover on Phobos, the larger and closer of Mars two pint-sized moons. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, which is leading the bold sampling effort, launched the spacecraft before dawn from the country's main spaceport on Tanegashima Island.

20 Oct 2026 1:17 am
Zelenskyy says Ukraine got no early warning from partners as Russia hits the power grid again

Zelenskyy is grappling with recent Washington moves benefiting Russian President Vladimir Putin, including waiving U.S. sanctions on Moscow and signing a deal to import diesel from Moscow.

20 Oct 2026 1:06 am
Foxconn buys $727 million stake in Mitsubishi EV parts biz

Mitsubishi will contribute technology in electric powertrains, autonomous driving and in-car intelligence for EV platforms developed by Foxconn, the companies said Monday during a news conference in Tokyo.

20 Oct 2026 1:01 am
Why Pete Hegseths remarks on Natos Afghanistan role have drawn UK rebuke and raised fresh questions over US-Europe relations

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth questioned the combat contributions of NATO allies in Afghanistan during a recent speech. His comments prompted a response from the British government defending the sacrifices of its troops, which included over 450 deaths. The controversy comes amid broader tensions regarding US support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. European leaders are concerned about maintaining their security commitments in light of these remarks.

20 Oct 2026 12:35 am
Riyadh airport limits jet traffic over attacks

Several carriers have halted flights in the wake of the attacks, including Qatar Airways, which on Monday suspended operations to Riyadh until Oct. 24 and reduced flights to Jeddah. Other airlines have also cut operations including Etihad Airways,and India's Akasa Air and Air India.

20 Oct 2026 12:20 am
Saudi airport closure disrupts life in kingdom's capital

Riyadh's airport has been closed for over a week following multiple attacks by Yemen's Houthis. This situation has forced the cancellation of major events, including the Future Investment Initiative. Domestic airlines are struggling to reroute flights for residents amid growing safety concerns. Western embassies are tightening travel advisories due to the ongoing threat. Saudi officials continue to reassure citizens and investors about their safety during these turbulent times.

20 Oct 2026 12:07 am
Modi likely to visit Russia in 2027 for annual summit: Kremlin

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Russia next year for an annual summit. Originally, the visit was scheduled for December, but other meetings complicated the timeline. Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the visit is more likely to occur next year. The leaders of India and Russia meet annually following a strategic partnership declaration. Modi's future visit will mark nearly 80 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

20 Oct 2026 12:04 am
India-New Zealand FTA comes into effect today

The FTA will provide Indian exporters with 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, opening opportunities for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, farmers and artisans. This is expected to facilitate $20 billion in investments into India in 15 years that would create opportunities across manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation.

20 Oct 2026 12:02 am
From radical transparency to a 48-hour rule: How Melinda French Gates, Ray Dalio, Satya Nadella and David Shelley approach employee feedback

Melinda French Gates follows a 48-hour rule for employee feedback, giving herself time to reflect before addressing concerns. While Ray Dalio advocates radical transparency and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella promotes a learn-it-all culture, Hachette chief David Shelley stresses the importance of leaders communicating in their own words rather than relying on AI. Their approaches highlight different ways business leaders handle criticism, encourage learning and communicate with employees.

20 Oct 2026 12:02 am
Trade deal 'very close' to finalisation: Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. During his visit, Rubio mentioned that the India-US trade deal is close to being finalized. He expressed the need to balance global energy concerns while managing sanctions linked to Russian oil. Additionally, Rubio plans to meet business leaders in Mumbai, including Gautam Adani and N Chandrasekaran.

19 Oct 2026 11:48 pm
Disability, elderly care likely to qualify for CSR spending

Companies need to comply with CSR obligations if they have a net worth of 500 crore or more, turnover of 1,000 crore or more, or a net profit of 5 crore or more in the immediately preceding financial year. Under this, they must spend at least 2% of the average net profit made during the previous three financial years in areas or subjects specified by the corporate affairs ministry.

19 Oct 2026 11:47 pm
6 ops in 48 hours: Houthis claim to strike Saudi airports, Aramco site & oil field, military facilities

Yemens Houthi rebels reported six military operations targeting Saudi facilities, which included oil and airport sites. The rebel group stated that their actions were a response to Saudi strikes on Yemeni civilians. According to Houthi claims, significant damage occurred in various locations, resulting in fires and operational disruptions. They also warned Yemenis against joining Saudi coalition forces, citing recruitment incentives and dangers.

19 Oct 2026 11:33 pm
October Horoscope: A frustrating chapter could finally close for these 5 zodiac signs in the coming weeks

Things are set to improve for 5 zodiac signs. From your career to your relationship, you will witness a shift. With Pluto turning direct the energy these zodiac signs are feeling have transformed for the coming days.

19 Oct 2026 11:30 pm
From France to Albania, social unrest is setting Europe's streets ablaze

Across Europe, a wave of protests is sweeping through as citizens express their frustration over escalating living expenses and inadequate public services, particularly in education. France sees students rallying for enhanced educational facilities, while cities in Spain erupt in housing protests. Italy witnesses heated demonstrations over wage increases and healthcare issues. In Albania, the youth are clashing with authorities in anti-corruption protests.

19 Oct 2026 11:23 pm
In 2025, Alaska was hit by the second-highest tsunami in history. Its vibrations travelled around the world for 36 hours

On August 10, 2025, a massive landslide unleashed over 64 million cubic meters of earth into the stunning depths of Tracy Arm fjord. The sudden collapse triggered a tsunami, soaring to record heights and reshaping the fjord's landscape. Luckily, the early morning timing minimized human exposure, resulting in no casualties and limited shoreline damage. Scientists recorded related seismic activities persisting for up to 36 hours post-event.

19 Oct 2026 11:13 pm
Drone strikes across Sudan kill more than 100

The deadliest drone strike hit near a market on Sunday evening in Al-Dibab town in the southwestern state of West Kordofan, which is controlled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that have been at war with Sudan's military since April 2023.

19 Oct 2026 10:44 pm
France imposes night curfew in parts of Paris after weekend riots

The French authorities have called for a curfew in Paris, specifically around the Place de la Republique and the Les Halles area. This curfew will start at 8 PM GMT on Monday night and will last until 4 AM GMT on Tuesday.

19 Oct 2026 10:37 pm
Russian attack kills six at park in Kharkiv region, including three children, Ukraine says

A recent Russian drone strike in a park in Kharkiv region resulted in six fatalities, including three children. The attack also injured 15 individuals and occurred while families were enjoying their time outdoors. Interior Minister Ivan Vyhivskyi shared distressing images of the aftermath, including a child's body in a stroller. Emergency crews were seen responding to the scene and managing the damaged area.

19 Oct 2026 10:10 pm
'You havent given in to cynicism, fear & anxiety': Newsoms No Kings rally message attacking Trump

'You havent given in to cynicism, fear & anxiety': Newsoms No Kings rally message attacking Trump

19 Oct 2026 10:09 pm
Japan to launch world-first mission to moon of Mars

Japanese scientists will launch the Martian Moons eXploration probe from Tanegashima Space Center, targeting Mars's moon Phobos. The spacecraft aims to collect samples that could reveal the origins of the Solar System and life on Earth. This mission is set for a three-year duration in the Martian region, involving collaboration with US and European space agencies. Mars's other moon, Deimos, will be observed but not landed on during this mission.

19 Oct 2026 10:06 pm
CBDT exempts interest payments on rupee-denominated bonds issued by New Development Bank from TDS

The exemption applies to holders of Maharajah INR Bonds who are Indian residents or foreign institutional investors, for the 2026-27 tax year and subsequent tax years.

19 Oct 2026 10:02 pm
An Egyptian farmer found a mysterious pink stone in his field it led archaeologists to two giant statues of Ramses II buried for centuries

Archaeologists found ancient statue fragments related to Ramses II in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. The discovery was triggered by farmer Khaled al-Shahat, who informed authorities about a unique pink stone. Excavations revealed monumental statues and inscriptions that allow further exploration of the site's history. This area previously linked to a temple dedicated to Isis provides new insights into Ramses II's building practices.

19 Oct 2026 9:47 pm
France is on fire but something more dangerous burns below the unrest

France is engulfed in protests as the public expresses growing dissatisfaction with soaring expenses and diminishing educational quality. Citizens are voicing their demands for improved services, yet the government grapples with managing an overwhelming public debt. Amid budget cuts proposed by President Macron's administration, increasing political challenges may hinder these efforts.

19 Oct 2026 9:43 pm
Volcano near which 2 million people live tracked by scientists for 2 years. They found hidden underground movements

Research on Nicaragua's Masaya volcano has unveiled the dynamic nature of its underground magma reservoirs over time. An analysis of satellite imagery from 2018 to 2024 has detected alterations in the caldera and Santiago crater. Some areas exhibited ground uplift, indicating rising magma, while others experienced subsidence. This continuous observation is vital to understanding potential volcanic risks and guiding local communities.

19 Oct 2026 9:34 pm
Could treating AI like a human make you more vulnerable to manipulation? Experts warn how believing chatbots have feelings could be a threat

Artificial intelligence systems like chatbots are becoming more emotionally engaging, prompting concerns over manipulation by users. The recent policy change by Anthropic restricts cruelty towards AI models, which has reignited debates on AI welfare and consciousness. Researchers are divided on whether AI systems deserve moral consideration, reflecting uncertainty within the industry. There are fears that recognizing AI rights may weaken human accountability for harmful actions.

19 Oct 2026 8:34 pm
Government staff in Saudi capital told to work from home

The Kingdom Centre, a 99storey tower in downtown Riyadh that houses the regional office of the International Monetary Fund, has also requested workers in its offices to stay away until further notice.

19 Oct 2026 7:31 pm