The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
The Supreme Court recently cancelled elections in 50 municipal wards across Punjab's Patiala and Moga districts and ordered repolls within six weeks. The decision follows a fact-finding inquiry that reported serious irregularities, including alleged intimidation of candidates, destruction of nomination papers and obstruction during the election process.
Chief Justice Surya Kant stated that lawyers have the right to participate in peaceful protests at designated locations. Concerns were raised regarding police excesses and the alleged detention of lawyers during recent protests. Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan highlighted incidents of violence against protesters and the lack of public orders under relevant laws. The Supreme Court will hear the matter, addressing the concerns of police actions against citizens and lawyers alike.
The Supreme Court of India has prevented the CBI from taking coercive action against Punjab government officials. This directive follows a plea from the Punjab government seeking a stay on a previous high court order. The high court had directed the CBI to investigate alleged corruption involving cash for transfers and favorable policies. The Punjab government argues that the investigation process violates legal protocols intended for public servants.
Since the Asian Champions Trophy began, the Indian men's hockey team has enjoyed impressive success, clinching their first title in 2011 and repeating the feat in 2016 against Pakistan. In 2018, the final was a draw with Pakistan due to unfavorable weather. India's latest victory came in 2023 over Malaysia, and they successfully retained their title in 2024 against China, further solidifying their legacy in Asian hockey.
'Do not break it!': Trump announces Russia-Ukraine energy truce; Zelenskyy says unaware of deal
Venus Retrograde is often seen as a time of confusion and setbacks. But for these five zodiac signs, the coming weeks could bring more opportunities than problems.
Gold and silver prices opened lower on MCX despite a weaker US dollar and falling oil prices, as investors awaited US inflation data for clues on the Federal Reserves next policy move. Analysts recommend buying on dips while monitoring key support levels.
Industrialist Harsh Goenka has shared a comparison showing Nvidias $5.5 trillion market capitalisation exceeding the combined $4.4 trillion value of all listed Indian companies. Users pointed out the comparison and differences in valuation dates and market fluctuations.
A female elephant was trapped in slush at the Gunderipallam dam in Tamil Nadus Erode district on Sunday, triggering a rescue operation by forest officials and fire and rescue personnel. Efforts were delayed after an earthmover got stuck in the muddy terrain. A veterinary team from Sathyamangalam was also mobilised to provide medical assistance and monitor the elephants condition amid water scarcity in the forest.
The Supreme Court has ordered the MMRDA to deposit Rs 646 crore with its registry by November 6. This order is in relation to a delay in construction by Reliance Industries at Bandra-Kurla Complex. Additionally, the court has issued a notice to Reliance Industries promoted by Mukesh Ambani. The MMRDA is challenging a Bombay High Court order that quashed an earlier demand against the company.
Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia condemned attacks by Yemen's Houti militants on Riyadh's interational airport. They said the attacks were a dangerous escalation and cannot be justified or accepted under any pretext. The remarks follow a Houthi strike on Riyadh's International airport which killed one person and injured a dozen. The group of regional powers - dubbed the R4 - reaffirmed their solidarity and support for Saudi Arabia.
China and the European Union recently held consultations focusing on hybrid and electric vehicle trade matters. Both parties agreed on export quotas for Chinese hybrid vehicles that align with overall import standards. Additionally, there was consensus on increasing the 2025 hybrid vehicle export figure to promote stability for Chinese companies. The negotiations aimed to address economic and trade concerns adequately.
Chief Justice Surya Kant highlighted that the Supreme Court is accessible to every Indian citizen. He emphasized that citizens should file petitions rather than seeking private meetings for legal matters. This statement comes in response to the INDIA bloc's planned protest regarding alleged electoral irregularities. Security measures have been heightened in Central Delhi in anticipation of the protest march.
The outlook for Pakistan's economy appears optimistic, with anticipated growth rates of over 4% this fiscal year, spurred by strategic government privatization initiatives. The finance minister outlined plans to privatize five to six state-owned enterprises, potentially yielding upwards of $1 billion in revenue. Additionally, negotiations with the United States are underway to create a $10 billion exchange stabilization facility. After reaching a staff-level agreement with the IMF, around $1.
El Nino has reached an all-time high in sea surface temperatures, significantly surpassing previous peaks. The rising temperatures are expected to have long-term effects on global climates until at least 2027. In India, El Nino typically leads to reduced monsoon rainfall, which already showed a deficit this year. Experts have warned that this phenomenon could further threaten agricultural yields and increase inflation.
Samsung affiliates are planning to invest over 12 trillion won in semiconductor operations across Vietnam and South Korea. The company aims to enhance its memory chip testing facilities in Thai Nguyen, Vietnam, set to begin in late 2027. Additionally, Samsung Electro-Mechanics is expanding its flip-chip manufacturing capabilities, targeting completion in Vietnam by June 2030. The expansion aims to meet growing global orders while ensuring high-value production remains in South Korea.
Yemens Houthis have increased their attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting Riyadhs main airport this weekend. These strikes resulted in significant casualties and increased pressure on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The escalation of hostilities raises concerns regarding potential US intervention and the collapse of a previous truce. Saudi Arabia's relationship with its allies may also be tested amid this ongoing conflict.
Leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party in Jharkhand faced intimidation while traveling to Delhi for protests. Several members noticed they were being followed by men in plain clothes on their train journey. One member, Khusboo Choudhary, abandoned her trip after receiving a warning from the TTE. Others also shortened their journeys, citing similar concerns over their safety. Despite this, at least 15 members managed to reach Delhi for the protests.
Houthis claim strikes on Saudi airports, energy facilities; Trump says, 'attack not acceptable'
Freight rates for shipping US crude oil to China have recently eased after reaching record levels. The rate dropped to $634,974 per day, a decline after a period of increases. This was the first drop since early September, indicating a shift in market trends. Traders noted that high rates are making US crude less accessible for Asian refiners.
Finance ministers and central bankers will meet in Bangkok to discuss challenges affecting the global economy this week. The key concerns include the economic fallout from the US-Iran war and rising inflation. Policymakers face difficult choices regarding spending and support for vulnerable populations amid growing financial pressures. Investment in artificial intelligence presents new opportunities and challenges, especially for developing nations. The meetings will shape responses to these ong
Brent crude futures declined $1.42, or 1.36%, to $103.35 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude fell $1.42, or 1.60%, to $90.42 a barrel.
Jean-Luc Melenchon has celebrated the nationwide high school protests over education issues in France. He has called for lowering the voting age to 16 and ending selective university admissions. Melenchon aims to engage young voters while addressing their grievances with the educational system. His campaign also focuses on lowering the retirement age and canceling national debt. Melenchon believes that young people's political involvement will be crucial for the upcoming election.
Gold prices showed little movement as early Asian trading commenced, with many awaiting US inflation data this week. Spot gold remained steady after reaching a one-week high on Friday, while US gold futures saw a slight increase. Key data to be released includes the Consumer Price Index and Producer Price Index reports on Wednesday and Thursday. Rising interest rates have impacted gold's attractiveness as an investment, amid ongoing economic concerns.
US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are contemplating the dismissal of Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle. Reports have surfaced alleging her involvement in questionable and possibly illegal conduct while serving in Greece. Rubio's frustration has increased due to the mounting allegations since last month. Key congressional Democrats have called for an investigation into Guilfoyle's actions and behavior.
Oil prices have increased amid worsening conflict in the Middle East, particularly involving Yemen's Houthis and Saudi Arabia. Brent crude futures saw a rise of 76 cents to reach $105.48 a barrel recently. Reports indicated that multiple tanker attacks have heightened concerns regarding oil supply chains in the region. Additionally, US President Donald Trump mentioned potential military involvement in support of Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
A federal judge ruled that President Donald Trump must cancel remaining television commercials funded by taxpayer money. The ads were challenged as an illegal use of funds for political propaganda, which violates federal law. The judge's restraining order prevents further development or airing of these advertisements during the order's duration. The Department of Homeland Security had used $20 million in appropriated funds for this ad campaign.
BP announced its withdrawal from the World Petroleum Council Energy Congress due to safety concerns in Riyadh. Missile attacks at the international airport resulted in fatalities and numerous injuries, prompting increased security measures. Despite BP's cancellation, the five-day energy conference continued as originally scheduled at a separate venue. Other major oil executives also reportedly withdrew from the event amid the ongoing unrest.
A bipartisan group of seven US senators has questioned the legality of President Trump's diesel import deal with Russia. They highlight Congress's ban on Russian energy imports established in 2022 due to the Ukraine conflict. The senators argue that Trump's decision violates this law and failed to communicate with Congress. Concerns arise over the potential financial benefits to Russia amidst ongoing civilian casualties in Ukraine.
Iran-US War latest: The head of Irans Supreme National Security Council says Tehran finds the latest response from the United States insufficient as efforts at negotiations to end the war and fully open the Strait of Hormuz limp along.
Pennsylvania shooting: The 45-year-old gunman took his own life. Authorities have not released his name, but Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah said he was related to seven of the victims. The eighth was a friend of the pregnant woman, he said. Police have not made their names public, either.
US Judge's decision caps days of controversy over the taxpayer-funded advertisements, which were aired in the final weeks before the midterm elections.
US Weather update: Nearly a dozen local weather stations in the western North Carolina county reported torrential 24-hour rainfall totals from about 5 inches to as much as 9.57 inches at the fire/rescue station in Enola.
Nancy Guthrie's mystery disappearance has kept Pima County in the public eye and under scrutiny. With the case nearing nine months unsolved, local authorities face growing pressure for answers. Law enforcement is also responding to other serious incidents requiring their resources and attention. The ongoing investigation into Guthrie's case highlights the challenges of balancing multiple cases simultaneously.
American mathematician Mary Tsingou Nenzel helped develop a landmark physics experiment at Los Alamos in 1955, but her contribution was reduced to a footnote. More than 50 years later, her role gained wider recognition when the experiment became known as the Fermi-Pasta-Ulam-Tsingou problem. She died at her Los Angeles home in August 2026.
In 2026, American music singer Taylor Swift made headlines for her charitable contributions, including a $50,000 donation to an injured mother of three. She also made a $4 million education pledge and a combined $26 million charity donation with her husband Travis Kelce to 20 organisations across the United States.
In the upcoming days, three zodiac signs are under spotlight. Some people are going to face relationship troubles. For many people, tension in workplace may arise.
A 44-year-old woman who went missing after falling overboard from Royal Caribbeans Odyssey of the Seaswas found alive after spending nearly a day in the Ionian Sea off Greece. The rescue involved the Greek Coast Guard, a cargo vessel and other ships. She was taken to hospital for treatment for hypothermia and medical observation.
Checking your assigned polling place before the midterm elections is essential to avoid confusion on Election Day. Voter registration information can be used to find out where to vote. If you have moved, update your registration to ensure your polling location is correct. States have specific voter ID rules that should be reviewed prior to voting. Ensure you vote at your assigned location to prevent issues with your ballot.
Relocating to Bengaluru for a job can indeed stretch one's finances, particularly for those on beginner salaries. A Redditor is looking to make this move with a budget of Rs 30,000 and is gathering advice on cost-effective living. Suggestions range from opting for shared flats to cooking meals at home, along with taking advantage of public transport.
Gold rate prediction: Gold tends to lose its appeal compared to yield-bearing assets in a high interest-rate environment.

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