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Global Business / The Economic Times

What is the most potent trade weapon that Macron has asked EU to use against Trump - here are the details

Trump Greenland news: French President Emmanuel Macron wants the European Union to use its powerful anti-coercion tool. This is in response to US President Donald Trump's new tariffs on eight European countries. Trump linked these tariffs to a demand for Greenland. The EU's tool can retaliate with tariffs or other measures. This move could delay or derail a US-EU trade deal.

19 Jan 2026 7:52 pm
Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar to leave for Davos to attend World Economic Forum meet

Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar is set to attend the prestigious World Economic Forum in Davos, departing on Tuesday after initially pulling out due to commitments in Delhi and Bengaluru.

19 Jan 2026 7:52 pm
NHAI explains toll fee rule: Who is exempt and who can get discounts

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has outlined exemptions and discounts for toll charges on national highways, governed by the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008. Specific constitutional authorities, public representatives, senior government and defence officials, and certain emergency vehicles are exempt. Local residents and district-level vehicle owners can avail discounted monthly passes under specific conditions.

19 Jan 2026 7:52 pm
DGP Ramachandra Rao video controversy: Karnataka govt orders probe after alleged inappropriate clip surfaces

A video allegedly showing DGP Ramachandra Rao in a compromising position has gone viral, sparking a political storm in Karnataka. While Rao denies the allegations, calling the clip fabricated, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered a thorough investigation, vowing strict action if guilt is proven. The controversy is amplified by Rao's connection to a gold smuggling case through his stepdaughter.

19 Jan 2026 7:46 pm
Is Melania Trump's documentary a big flop? Here's what reports say

Melania Trumps documentary, produced by Amazon MGM Studios with a reported $40 million budget, is scheduled to debut on January 30, 2026, but early ticket sales suggest weak audience interest. Directed by Brett Ratner, the movie promises behind-the-scenes insight into Melanias First Lady role, which includes inauguration preparations. Critics have stated the trailer as staged and static, and social media backlash has included defaced posters.

19 Jan 2026 7:43 pm
Word of the day: Panglossian

Panglossian is a word linked to literature and philosophy. It has roots in a famous European book and later became part of the English language. Over time, the term started appearing in news, politics, and economic discussions. Writers often use it when talking about ideas, beliefs, and attitudes in serious debates and public conversations.

19 Jan 2026 7:39 pm
IMF lifts 2026 global growth forecast but flags AI, trade risks

World economic growth is projected to hold steady at 3.3 percent this year, the International Monetary Fund said, raising its forecast by 0.2 percentage points from October. This would be the same pace of growth as in 2025.

19 Jan 2026 7:37 pm
Are you on the list? Trump tax cuts could put $670 back in some Americans pockets

A new $6,000 senior tax deduction could raise 2025 refunds for millions of Americans aged 65 and older. AARP estimates average savings near $670. Middle-income retirees may save up to $1,320. Income limits apply, but the benefit stacks with standard deductions. The relief runs through 2028, as living costs remain elevated.

19 Jan 2026 7:36 pm
Smriti Irani to bring India's gender equity agenda at Davos

India's influence on global inclusion and equality will be amplified at Davos 2026. The Women Inspiring Network (WIN) Lounge will host over ten trailblazing Indian women leaders, including Smriti Irani, Nivruti Rai, and Sangita Reddy.

19 Jan 2026 7:22 pm
Norway preparing for property requisitions in wartime

Thousands of Norwegians were to receive letters on Monday from the military informing them that their homes, vehicles, boats and machinery may be requisitioned in the event of war. The letters have no practical impact in peacetime, the armed forces said, other than to let owners know that the military may take over their goods in the event of a conflict, the statement said.

19 Jan 2026 6:59 pm
National Popcorn Day 2026: Where to score free popcorn and deals at AMC, Cinemark and more

National Popcorn Day 2026 arrives on January 19. Movie theaters across America are celebrating with special offers. Cinemark allows customers to fill their own containers for $5. AMC provides free popcorn to pass holders. Regal offers free popcorn to those in costume. Other chains also have deals. This event provides a great opportunity to enjoy movies and popcorn for less.

19 Jan 2026 6:58 pm
Godrej Enterprises products to get come with embedded AI engine

Godrej Enterprises Group is launching Amethyst, a unified artificial intelligence engine. This AI will be integrated into brand strategies and operations across all businesses. The group expects a significant productivity boost for employees. Agentic AI will be embedded into products and customer experiences. This initiative signals a move towards an intelligence-first enterprise.

19 Jan 2026 6:56 pm
Word of the day: Neologism

Neologism meaning: Neologisms are new words, expressions, or meanings that emerge to describe evolving ideas, technologies, and cultural shifts. These linguistic innovations, often driven by advancements like the internet, reflect societal changes and demonstrate human creativity in communication.

19 Jan 2026 6:52 pm
Centre to soon launch 'coastal vibrant villages' programme: CISF DG

The Union government is set to launch a coastal vibrant villages program, mirroring the successful Vibrant Villages Programme for land borders. This initiative aims to engage communities along India's extensive coastline, with the CISF adopting 52 villages. The program will leverage a coastal cyclothon to gather information and strengthen maritime security, a key focus area for the government.

19 Jan 2026 6:50 pm
Has Keith Urban moved in with a new girlfriend? Who is she and what has ex-wife Nicole Kidman said

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidmans recent divorce has ignited fresh attention as reports indicate that the country singer has moved in with a new girlfriend. The divorce got finalized earlier this month following almost two decades of marriage, was stated as amicable, with custody arrangements agreed upon and no support conflicts. Both icons now seem to be charting distinct personal and professional directions ahead.

19 Jan 2026 6:49 pm
Quote of the day by Tom Wolfe: If a conservative is a liberal who's been mugged.

Tom Wolfe was a famous American writer and journalist known for sharp quotes and bold opinions. His Quote of the Day explains how real-life experiences can change political thinking. Wolfe used simple words, humor, and strong examples to talk about society, power, and human behavior, making his ideas easy to understand and widely discussed even today.

19 Jan 2026 6:46 pm
Supreme Court flags concern over exorbitant rise in airfares during festivals

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta termed the exorbitant rise of airfares by airlines as exploitation and asked the Centre and the DGCA to file their replies to a PIL seeking binding regulatory guidelines to control the unpredictable fluctuations in airfare and ancillary charges imposed by private airlines in India.

19 Jan 2026 6:46 pm
Luminous names Vivek Abrol MD and CEO

Vivek Abrol is the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Luminous Power Technologies. He takes over from Preeti Bajaj, who is now with the parent company, Schneider Electric. Abrol brings extensive experience to lead Luminous's expansion into solar and consumer energy solutions. His focus will be on profitable growth and innovation in the energy sector.

19 Jan 2026 6:43 pm
Social Security payment schedule shift: Whos getting paid early and what changed

Social Security SSI payments are arriving early in 2026 due to calendar shifts. Beneficiaries receive advance deposits through March. January benefits were paid December 31 with a 2.8% COLA. February and March payments also move earlier. Timing changes affect millions. Understanding the schedule helps avoid confusion.

19 Jan 2026 6:40 pm
IIT Delhi launches power sector regulatory centre

A new Centre of Excellence aims to strengthen regulatory capacity as Indias power sector grapples with clean energy transition, market reforms and grid complexity.

19 Jan 2026 6:39 pm
Afghanistan: Several killed in blast in Kabul, Taliban interior ministry says

A blast rocked Kabul's Shahr-e-Naw area on Monday. Several people were killed and injured in the incident. The Taliban interior ministry confirmed the casualties. Shahr-e-Naw is a secure area frequented by foreigners. Further details are expected to be released soon. The blast has raised concerns in the capital.

19 Jan 2026 6:33 pm
This Indian river flows in opposite direction. Heres the science behind it

India's Narmada River uniquely flows west towards the Arabian Sea, defying the common eastward pattern. Originating in Amarkantak, its westward journey is shaped by a rift valley, making it geologically distinct. The river is vital for agriculture, power generation, and holds deep religious significance for many.

19 Jan 2026 6:32 pm
WEF Davos 2026: Indian envoy Mridul Kumar meets World Bank President Ajay Banga

India's Ambassador to Switzerland, Mridul Kumar, met World Bank President Ajay Banga in Zurich ahead of the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos. The brief discussion highlighted India's development agenda and its partnership with the World Bank. India is set to showcase its investment and growth story to global leaders at the summit.

19 Jan 2026 6:20 pm
MLK day 2026: What is open, what is closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year?

MLK day 2026: Is Martin Luther King Jr. Day a federal holiday in US? Check full list of entities that are open and closed today.

19 Jan 2026 6:05 pm
Are schools closed on MLK Day? Check the details here

Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be recognized on Monday, Jan. 19, as a federal and Michigan state holiday. Public schools and colleges will also shut down in observance of the day. The commemoration pays tribute to Dr. Kings role in the civil rights movement and encourages reflection, service, and community participation.

19 Jan 2026 6:02 pm
Gold and silver prices hit all-time highs amid U.S.Europe trade war escalation why gold and silver prices are rising today and what analysts are forecasting next

Gold and silver prices hit fresh all-time highs as U.S.Europe trade war fears intensify. Tariff threats and weak dollar have pushed gold near record $4,700/oz and silver above $93/oz. The rally followed President Trumps threat of 10% tariffs on eight European nations over the Greenland acquisition. Citigroup now forecasts gold hitting $5,000 and silver reaching $100 by April.

19 Jan 2026 6:01 pm
UK, France weighs ban on social media for youth as debate rages

France and Britain are exploring bans on social media for children, following Australia's lead. Experts debate the impact on youth mental health. While some advocate for action, others call for a more measured approach. Australia prohibited under-16s from platforms like Instagram and TikTok. France is considering similar measures for under-15s.

19 Jan 2026 5:59 pm
Why XRP price today is crashing below $2 after $29.7 million long liquidations hit amid the crypto market sell-off

XRP price crash today: XRP experienced a sharp decline, falling below the crucial $2 mark. This triggered the largest wave of long liquidations for the token in over two months. The broader cryptocurrency market also saw a significant selloff, erasing billions in value. XRP was among the hardest-hit assets during this market-wide downturn.

19 Jan 2026 5:58 pm
IRS warns taxpayers as 24-hour shutdown begins in hours what to know now

The IRS and major banks will shut offices for 24 hours on MLK Day 2026. In-person help will not be available, but online services will stay active. USPS and delivery services will also pause operations. Officials urge Americans to plan early, complete urgent tasks ahead of time, and use trusted online tools to avoid delays or missed payments.

19 Jan 2026 5:53 pm
Realme P4 Power 5G to have 10,000 mAh battery! Check specs, price, release date of this upcoming smartphone

Realme is launching the P4 Power 5G in India soon. This new smartphone will feature a large 6.78-inch 144Hz AMOLED display. It is expected to have a massive 10,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging. The device will also boast a powerful processor and a triple rear camera setup. The Realme P4 Power 5G aims to offer strong performance and endurance.

19 Jan 2026 5:50 pm
MLK Day 2026: Is today a holiday in the US? Here's what you need to know

Martin Luther King Jr. Day remains a federal holiday, but National Park access will change in 2026. The Trump administration removed MLK Day from the list of fee-free days, emphasizing patriotism over traditional holidays. U.S. flags will not be lowered for MLK Day, as this is not a change from previous years.

19 Jan 2026 5:44 pm
'Once called BIMARU, today a progressive, safe state': UP Minister Suresh Khanna at WEF 2026 in Davos

Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna, leading a high-level delegation from the state in the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, said that the state is now progressive and safe under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

19 Jan 2026 5:42 pm
Piyush Goyal meets US Ambassador Sergio Gor, Senator Steve Daines; discusses bilateral issues

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with US Ambassador Sergio Gor and Senator Steve Daines to discuss bilateral issues, including ongoing trade agreement negotiations. The discussions come amidst a 50% US import duty on Indian goods and US senators' calls for favorable provisions for American pulse crop producers in any future trade deal.

19 Jan 2026 5:41 pm
What to know about the annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos

Nearly 3,000 global leaders from business and government are gathering in Davos for the World Economic Forum. Discussions will cover economic disparity, climate change, and technology. U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron are among the prominent attendees. The meeting aims to foster dialogue on cooperation and innovation amidst complex geopolitical challenges.

19 Jan 2026 5:33 pm
The Venezuelan Tragedy: How Maduro fell and Delcy Rodrguez rose in a fragile country

Coordinated explosions in Caracas on January 3, 2026, led to Nicols Maduro's capture and removal by U.S. forces. Despite initial U.S. rejection of the Chavista establishment, Vice President Delcy Rodrguez was backed for stability, securing military loyalty. However, protests and external interference raise concerns about Venezuela's future.

19 Jan 2026 5:28 pm
'Welcome my brother': PM Modi receives UAE President upon latter's arrival in India

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in India for an official visit, personally welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the airport. The visit underscores the strong bilateral ties and comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, with discussions expected to focus on regional developments and strengthening India-UAE friendship.

19 Jan 2026 5:26 pm
8 foods you'd never guess are wrecking your digestion

Beyond the usual suspects like spicy chili and citrus, lesser-known culprits quietly trigger persistent acid reflux in millions, from seemingly innocent mint tea to high-fat dairy and fermented onions, catching most people off-guard.

19 Jan 2026 5:24 pm
8 foods that cause blood sugar spikes in non-diabetics

Even if you don't have diabetes, eating certain foods can send your blood sugar spiking fast. Refined carbs, sugary drinks, and processed snacks trigger quick glucose surges in healthy people too. Here's what to eat less of and why it matters for energy, hunger, and long-term health.

19 Jan 2026 5:22 pm
From rugby to A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: Meet the 'Dunk the Tall' actor and just how tall is he?

A new Game of Thrones prequel, 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,' introduces Ser Duncan the Tall, a hedge knight portrayed by Peter Claffey. Claffey, a former rugby player, embodies the towering Dunk, a character seeking honour despite lacking land or title. The series explores his partnership with his squire, Egg, as they navigate the Seven Kingdoms.

19 Jan 2026 5:22 pm
6 physical signs of reduced blood flow

When your circulatory system falters, your body sends unmistakable signals. From numb fingers to leg cramps during walks, these six telltale signs shouldn't be brushed off as mere aging or fatigue. Catching them early can be transformative for long-term cardiovascular health.

19 Jan 2026 5:21 pm