The Economic Times News

Choosing the right order to take money from 401(k), pension, and Social Security can save taxes and make retirement easier. Your plan should match your goals, like enjoying life early or leaving money for family. Work with a financial advisor, sequence withdrawals smartly, and use Roth conversions to protect your savings for a long and stress-free retirement.

A bus collided with people in Mumbai's Bhandup West area on Monday, injuring at least five people as the BEST vehicle was reversing, officials said.

Hamas's armed wing reiterated on Monday that it would not surrender its weapons, a key issue expected to feature in talks later in the day between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The statement came just hours before Trump and Netanyahu were scheduled to meet in Florida.

The Indian government will borrow Rs 3.84 lakh crore through treasury bills in the fourth quarter of the current financial year. This borrowing aims to meet short-term funding needs. Weekly auctions will range from Rs 29,000 crore to Rs 35,000 crore. This amount is lower than the previous year's borrowing for the same period.

A throwaway remark last week by President Donald Trump has raised questions about whether US forces may have carried their first land strike against drug cartels in Venezuela. Trump has been saying for weeks that the United States will soon start carrying out land strikes targeting drug cartels in Latin America, but there have been no confirmed attacks to date.

Millions of Americans will observe three new public holidays in 2026, including Asian Lunar New Year, Eid al-Adha, and Diwali. While these additions recognize cultural diversity and offer more days off, they may present childcare challenges for parents. Several states and cities are implementing these holidays, with some offering school closures and paid time off.

Reliance Industries Limited has refuted a media report alleging the government sought $30 billion from the company and BP over KG-D6 gas block underproduction. RIL clarified that the actual government claim is approximately $247 million, a figure consistently disclosed in its financial statements.

California is rolling out a new law that tightens regulations around license plate flippers and other obscuring devices. To begin in the new year, the legislation prohibits both the use and distribution of products intended to hide or manipulate license plates. Drivers using such devices may get fines of up to $250, while sellers incur penalties of $1,000. Even though these devices have been illegal to use since 2008, loopholes enabled them to remain broadly available.

Ukraine's President Zelenskyy seeks Russian war reparations, potentially for defense, following talks with Donald Trump. He emphasized Ukraine's territorial integrity and interests regarding the Donbas. Zelenskyy also highlighted the need for a ceasefire for referendums and detailed new US-backed security guarantees, aiming for a peace deal through diplomacy and a popular vote on a 20-point plan.

US President Donald Trump had a positive call with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Monday, the White House said, a day after Trump met Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida. President Trump has concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on X. Trump and Putin had also spoken ahead of Sunday's Zelensky talks.

Intel's stock surged following the confirmation of a $5 billion private share sale to Nvidia, finalized on December 26, 2025. This strategic move, which grants Nvidia a roughly 4% stake, is seen as a significant boost to Intel's balance sheet and its ongoing turnaround efforts under CEO Lip-Bu Tan. The funding will support AI initiatives and manufacturing competitiveness.

Many grocery stores will be open on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Some stores will have regular hours, while others will close early or remain closed. Shipping services like UPS and FedEx will have modified hours. It is advisable to check specific store and service locations for exact timings.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced Moscow's accusation of a drone attack on Vladimir Putin's residence as a lie. He stated that Russia is fabricating this claim to justify further strikes, potentially targeting Kyiv and government buildings. Zelensky urged everyone to remain vigilant, anticipating retaliatory actions.

Saying Happy New Year differs across languages and cultures, signifying local traditions and customs. From English and French to Korean and Thai, each greeting has its own warmth and importance. This guide shows how to wish the New Year in 15 languages, that includes Spanish, Italian, German, Arabic, Hindi, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Dutch, Russian, and Turkish.

Beyonc has crossed the $1 billion net worth mark, becoming one of the richest celebrities in the world. Her money comes from music tours, album sales, and owning her music rights. Smart business choices and global concerts helped grow her wealth, making her a top name in entertainment and pop culture worldwide.

A close contest is expected in the Nashik Municipal Corporation elections. The BJP will contest alone. Shiv Sena and NCP will fight together. The Maha Vikas Aghadi, including Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), Congress, and MNS, is also set to contest as a bloc. Seat sharing discussions are ongoing. The election outcome remains uncertain.

The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene regarding alleged harassment and violence against Kashmiri students and shawl vendors in Himachal Pradesh. The association highlighted a recent assault and stated that despite repeated pleas, effective action remains absent, leading to fear and disruption for Kashmiris.

Class action settlements December: Consumers can claim compensation from ten major class action settlements concluding this month, covering issues from data breaches to faulty products. Brands like AT&T, HelloFresh, and Jaguar Land Rover are involved, with payouts varying based on eligibility and the nature of the claim. Deadlines for most claims are in December 2025.

New Year's Day, January 1, is a federal holiday. However, January 2 is not a federal holiday. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared January 2 a state holiday for employees. This provides a four-day weekend for state workers. Businesses decide if they offer January 2 as a holiday.

The legacies of some of the biggest names were sealed as some once-elusive tasks/titles were ticked off, while some young rising talent just started writing their story as the torch-bearers of the next generation, who could lift on their shoulders hopes of their countrymen and take forward cricket as not only as a sport, but also a moolah-making, superstar-producing and glamorous industry it has turned into over the years.

Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have appealed their 17-year prison sentences in the Toshakhana-2 case, arguing the conviction was politically motivated. They contend the prosecution's methodology was flawed and the trial was bifurcated to keep them incarcerated. The couple seeks acquittal from the Islamabad High Court.

The 2026 Times Square Ball Drop will feature its first significant update in over 100 years to celebrate the United States 250th birthday. The ball will glow in red, white, and blue and showcase a second confetti drop, alongside additional patriotic upgrades. Organizers promise an anniversary for the ages. A historic second ball drop is set for July 3, marking the initial time in 120 years the ball will descend on a day other than New Years Eve.

Mortgage rates are stuck near 6.2% and are not falling fast. A weak job market, high inflation, and unclear Federal Reserve plans are keeping rates steady. Experts say rates may move only slightly next year. Until inflation cools more, home loans are likely to stay costly for many buyers.

India has strongly refuted Pakistan's claims of minority attacks, calling them unfounded and highlighting Pakistan's own poor record on minority rights. New Delhi dismissed the allegations as baseless, emphasizing that Pakistan's systemic victimisation of minorities is a well-established fact and cannot be obscured by criticism.

Dunkin is celebrating the least productive week of the year by providing one million free hot or iced coffees to Dunkin Rewards members. The campaign, dubbed produnktivity, focuses on energizing customers during the holiday season. To claim the offer, members must enter the code PRODUNKTIVITY in the Dunkin app on December 29, 2025, until the million coffees are distributed.

Taxpayers have a crucial two-day window on December 30 and 31 for a special retirement plan withdrawal. This move allows penalty-free access to funds for long-term care insurance premiums. New tax laws offer several deductions for 2025, including for seniors and auto loan interest. The SALT deduction cap has also significantly increased, impacting itemizers.

The BJP claims the Congress is fractured into two factions, led by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and her brother Rahul Gandhi. This internal division, highlighted by senior leader Digvijaya Singh's remarks, fuels a growing sentiment within the party to replace Rahul Gandhi with anyone to revive the Congress. The party's lack of unity is evident.

In January 2026, Social Security and SSI payments are scheduled based on birth dates or start date of benefits. SSI checks arrive early on Dec. 31, 2025, due to New Years Day. Social Security benefits rise 2.8%, about $56 more monthly. SSA ensures millions get their payments on time with clear January payment dates.

Bitcoin price today: Bitcoin's rally faltered, dipping below $88,000 after a brief surge past $90,000. This pullback impacted major altcoins, mirroring weakness in US stock futures. Traders reduced leveraged positions as Bitcoin futures open interest declined. Analysts suggest year-end tax harvesting may be contributing to selling pressure, though the long-term outlook remains positive.

Anthony Joshua has been injured in the car crash in Nigeria. Local police has launch an investigation into the matter.

INSV Kaundinya, an engineless Indian Navy vessel built using ancient stitched-ship techniques, has set sail from Gujarat to Oman. This maiden voyage retraces historic maritime routes, symbolizing India's rich seafaring traditions and its ancient role as a maritime nation. The project revives indigenous knowledge and highlights India's deep connection with the Indian Ocean.

Indian exports to Australia will become duty-free for all product categories starting January 1, 2026. This move follows an interim trade pact implemented in December 2022. Indian exports have already seen an 8 percent rise in 2024-25. This development promises new opportunities for India's labour-intensive sectors and strengthens supply chains.

The Punjab Congress will initiate a statewide mass movement starting January 8 from Gurdaspur. This action aims to protect the MGNREGA scheme. State unit chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring announced the plan, which follows press conferences across Punjab. The party has also raised this issue nationally, highlighting concerns about a new scheme replacing MGNREGA.

In a bold legislative maneuver, Russia has introduced a new law that enables the country to sidestep judgments issued by foreign and international courts regarding criminal issues. This decision arrives as Ukraine and European organizations intensify their calls for accountability for Russian officials amid the ongoing crisis.

Gold rose 72 per cent this year, rallying on factors such as softer U.S. monetary policy, dollar weakness, geopolitical friction and robust central bank purchases.

Millions of US workers will earn more money starting January 1 as new minimum wage laws take effect. States and cities across the country are raising pay to help workers manage rising living costs. Some increases are automatic, while others follow voter-approved plans. More wage hikes are also scheduled later in 2026.

The government has granted a one-year exemption from mandatory quality control for certain imported copper products, specifically for actual users. This decision, made in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards, aims to facilitate the import of specialized copper for various sectors. Importers must adhere to specific conditions, including informing BIS and submitting an indigenisation plan.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of treating Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank. He promised to identify and deport all illegal immigrants from Assam and across India. Shah highlighted the BJP government's focus on Assam's development and cultural preservation. He contrasted the BJP's actions with the Congress's perceived inaction.

Arnold Schwarzeneggers rise from champion bodybuilder to Hollywood legend started in the 1970s and led to a profession covering decades of blockbuster victories. With movies grossing over $5.2 billion worldwide, the former California governor has established a fortune estimated around $1.2 billion. Following his last significant role in Terminator: Dark Fate in 2019, fans are highly anticipating his comeback in The Man with the Bag, where he plays Santa Claus.

Today's Wordle #1654, a common food-related term, proved accessible for players. The New York Times' popular daily puzzle, known for its simple mechanics and engaging feedback, continues to captivate millions. The answer aligns with the game's tendency to feature familiar vocabulary, making it a straightforward challenge for most.

The Supreme Court has stayed a Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence and granted bail to Kuldeep Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The survivor expressed satisfaction and faith in the justice system, vowing to continue her fight. Sengar's daughters appealed for impartial justice, while political parties reacted to the development.