The Economic Times

Investors are preparing for the impacts of an unprecedented El Nio cycle affecting global markets. The weather phenomenon is linked to rising food prices and inflation estimates, heightening economic concerns. Analysts identify several vulnerable nations, including Indonesia, Brazil, and Colombia, likely to experience spillover effects. Strategies to cope include focusing on businesses developing technologies for extreme weather resilience. The widespread effects of El Nio necessitate adaptation

A 13-year-old teen girl from Massachusetts, Kaia Minn, has developed biodegradable seed pods using discarded citrus peels and other plant-based materials after being inspired by wildfire reports from California and Canada. The pods are designed to protect seeds during early growth before decomposing naturally, with potential applications in forest restoration, agriculture and gardening. Further outdoor testing is needed to establish their effectiveness.

In light of critical vulnerabilities discovered in PHP, numerous websites have been taken offline. The FBI has strongly recommended that organizations either update their PHP installations or disconnect vulnerable systems. Cybersecurity experts warn that these flaws pose a significant risk of data theft and cyberattacks. In response, website administrators are implementing urgent maintenance. Users are encouraged to exercise caution and adhere to online safety protocols.

Jurors in September found Meta liable for over 43 million violations of New Mexico consumer protection laws when a political consulting firm, Cambridge Analytica, harvested Facebook user data to generate targeted political ads for the 2016 election.

The Pentagon has authorized a temporary transfer of the Active Denial System to the Department of Homeland Security. This technology, known as a heat ray, is designed to disperse crowds without physical contact. Officials have yet to determine the specific testing locations or methods for its use. Previous military assessments have shown limited application in combat or crowd control situations.

As Democrats eye a potential return to power in Congress, billionaire Elon Musk could find himself under the microscope once again. Technology journalist Kara Swisher raised alarms about Musk's ties to Donald Trump, particularly highlighting his reliance on government support during Trump's tenure. Without Trump's backing, Swisher believes Musk could face intense scrutiny. While Musk dismissed her comments, the looming threat of investigations remains palpable.

The prestigious annual prize, which also includes a Fiction category worth the same prize money, celebrates exceptional narrative non-fiction written by female thought-leaders, changemakers and experts.

The US Supreme Court is set to examine the contested admission policy in Montgomery County affecting Asian-American students. The court's ruling will address whether sufficient evidence of discrimination exists for the lawsuit to progress. Previously, lower courts dismissed the case due to a lack of proven discriminatory intent. This decision could influence how selective public schools assess students under race-neutral policies.

Childcare costs have escalated significantly, impacting many households and their financial stability. This financial burden is influencing voter decisions, particularly among parents with young children. Candidates are increasingly addressing childcare issues in their campaigns to appeal to affected voters. While some propose substantial reforms, others prefer tax incentives as solutions. Parents are seeking representatives who genuinely support affordable childcare and early education initiati

Los Angeles and Southern California are bracing for a major storm from Wednesday to Thursday, with the National Weather Service warning of potential flooding from heavy rains expected to reach three inches. Coastal regions are also under tornado threat, increasing the need for caution. Communities recovering from wildfires should prepare for possible mud and debris flows.

The World Meteorological Organization reported that El Nino conditions may be unprecedentedly strong. Sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific could rise significantly above average during a specified future period. El Nino impacts include severe drought, heavy rainfall, and increased global temperatures. The phenomenon will peak towards late 2026, with effects persisting thereafter. This climate event is part of the El Nino Southern Oscillation cycle, which includes other phases.

Vladimir Putin has agreed to resume negotiations with Washington and Kyiv regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The trilateral talks will focus on establishing a post-war security system for both countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists on a leaders' summit to address ongoing hostilities. Recent discussions have yielded minimal progress amid continued military confrontations in Ukraine. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff noted a slight momentum in peace efforts following multiple high-level

EBay will lay off about 1,000 employees, representing 9% of its workforce, to streamline operations. The company previously reduced its staff by 800 positions in February to improve efficiency. EBay is focusing on authenticated luxury goods, collectibles, and refurbished products, which have attracted higher-paying consumers. The recent acquisition of fashion resale platform Depop has also strengthened eBay's market position. EBay plans to report its latest earnings next week.

United States President Donald Trump attempted to convince voters before the upcoming mid-term elections that the American economy is growing. However, voters have maintained the negative effects of inflation caused by the Iran war. The economy is seeing slowing job growth and widening income inequality, with high interest rates encumbering housing and automobile purchases.

The Sandoz penicillin plant in Kundl, Austria, is under threat from cheaper Chinese antibiotic production. European healthcare programs benefit from the lower prices, which could jeopardize self-sufficiency. China's share of the EU penicillins market has rapidly increased in recent years. European policymakers are becoming increasingly concerned about reliance on China for essential medicines. The current dynamics highlight the significant trade challenges facing European pharmaceutical manufact

Delaware has successfully transformed dredged rock from a shipping channel into underwater habitats for marine species. This innovative approach supports the growth of blue mussels and enhances local ecosystems. The artificial reefs also contribute to recreational fishing and diving opportunities for the public. By recycling natural materials, the state has addressed habitat scarcity in soft-bottom marine environments. Overall, this initiative exemplifies effective environmental management throu

Glenmont, a Victorian property acquired by Thomas Edison in 1886, serves as a significant historical site. It is located within the privately-owned Llewellyn Park community in West Orange, New Jersey. The estate is notable for maintaining a unique collection of artifacts that detail the Edisons' private lives. While the mansion is preserved by the National Park Service, surrounding areas are privately owned.

Cher's iconic Miami Beach mansion, originally acquired for $1.5 million, experienced remarkable appreciation, selling for $4.35 million just three years later. By 2020, it re-entered the market and fetched a staggering $17 million, following several attempts at higher listings. This transformation exemplifies the allure of celebrity homes, whose unique charm and history make them attractive investment assets.

The Election Commission has deployed a team of senior officials to Manipur to review preparations for assembly elections expected early next year in five states. Teams have also visited Uttarakhand, with Punjab scheduled for a review on October 28. The commission will conduct further assessments before announcing the election schedule.

Texas Senate race has become one of the most expensive in US history, with more than $500 million spent as Republican groups, backed by major donors including Elon Musk, seek to help Ken Paxton defeat Democrat James Talarico. With early voting underway, analysts say the focus has shifted from persuading undecided voters to mobilising supporters, while both parties battle over inflation, the Iran war and culture-war issues.

Maryland has repurposed over 300,000 bushels of used oyster shells since 2010, creating essential habitats for the growth of young oysters into thriving reefs. This project aims to restore the dwindling oyster population in Chesapeake Bay while enhancing critical underwater environments. To ensure the sustainability of these efforts, ongoing monitoring and protection of these habitats are paramount within the larger context of regional restoration actions.

Dilip Gavit secured the gold medal in the men's 100m T46/47 event at the Asian Para Games. Mohammed Morssinganakath Basil achieved a silver medal in the same event with a Games record time. Gavit finished with a time of 10.69 seconds while Basil clocked 10.72 seconds. In the men's 100m T64 event, Pranav Desai won a bronze medal, further showcasing India's athletic talent.

The ET HR Excellence Awards 2027 honors exemplary HR teams who significantly contribute to business growth through innovative talent management, robust employee engagement, and retention tactics. By acknowledging their tangible achievements, these awards provide organizations a stage to present their HR efforts and demonstrate their role in fostering improved workplace environments while achieving strategic objectives.

Michigan's Senate race 2026 is drawing national attention as Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed seeks to become the first Muslim elected to the US Senate. The physician and former Detroit health official is running on healthcare, workers rights, higher taxes on billionaires and changes to immigration policy against Republican Mike Rogers in a closely watched contest.

The Commission for Air Quality Management has invoked Stage-I of GRAP across Delhi-NCR after Delhis AQI rose sharply from 179 on October 20 to 244 by 2 pm on October 21. With forecasts predicting poor air quality over the coming days, agencies have been directed to intensify anti-pollution measures.

Researchers along Floridas Atlantic coast are using recycled oyster shells to restore damaged oyster habitats. Restoration mats that include used shells are designed to create surfaces for juvenile oysters to settle. Within years, these restored areas achieved densities akin to natural reefs, indicating successful recovery efforts. The benefits extend beyond oysters, aiding in water purification and providing habitats for other marine life.

South Island, once a vital breeding ground for seabirds, suffered degradation due to construction activities. In a remarkable turn of events, Fort Wool was repurposed into a temporary haven for these birds. They adapted swiftly, leading to the establishment of thousands of nests and successful chick rearing. This project exemplifies how habitat restoration can thrive even amid development, offering a promising blueprint for future coastal conservation efforts facing habitat decline.

Vladimir Putin announced the release of Stephen Hubbard, an American detained in Russia for nearly three years. Hubbard was convicted of being a mercenary and had been imprisoned since 2022. His capture raised questions, particularly regarding his age and alleged involvement in the Ukraine conflict. The US State Department designated him as wrongfully detained, complicating diplomatic relations. Further details about the circumstances of his release remain unclear at this time.

A ship was struck on Wednesday by an unknown projectile off the coast of Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz, sparking a fire, a British maritime security agency said. The Strait of Hormuz carried 20 percent of the world's oil and gas prior to the Middle East war, which erupted with US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.

Beulah Louise Henry, often referred to as Lady Edison, was a groundbreaking inventor who created over 100 innovative products throughout her life. Her remarkable inventions encompassed an ice cream freezer, various sewing tools, and the first copy machine. Despite her lack of a formal engineering background, Henry adeptly safeguarded and monetized her creations. This highlights the ongoing challenges women inventors face, underscoring the critical need for diversity in innovation.

Protests against living costs and housing affordability have escalated across Europe, particularly affecting youth and workers. Countries such as Italy and Belgium have seen violent demonstrations, with numerous arrests reported. Spain is facing a housing crisis, prompting protests ahead of an upcoming election, while Portugal's demonstrations have echoed similar grievances. In France, public unrest began with students but has expanded to broader economic issues.

Alaska's ferry system serves as a lifeline for 28 isolated communities, offering the only reliable transportation year-round. Currently, ticket sales only cover about 31 percent of operational costs, necessitating long-standing support from the general fund. With an aging fleet projected to require around $3 billion for updates, continuing to connect these coastal areas remains vital, even amidst financial difficulties and dependency on subsidies.

Belmont, Nevada, once a bustling mining hub during the silver rush era, experienced a dramatic decline in its population as resources dwindled and competition grew fierce. By the turn of the century, just 20 individuals remained in the town following the mine closures. This narrative exemplifies how boomtowns can face inevitable downfall without diversifying their economies.

Late Tuesday, a Mirage 2000D fighter jet crashed in eastern France while on its return flight from a mission. Reports confirm one crew member has lost their life, while teams are actively searching for the second missing crew member. The crash site is located near Rogeville, approximately 18 km northwest of Nancy. Authorities are currently investigating the incident.

Super Typhoon Champi has reached peak winds of 296 km/h, making it the strongest storm of 2026. Champi surpassed Hurricane Polo, which previously held the top wind speed record this year. After passing Guam, the typhoon is expected to weaken as it approaches Taiwan later this week. Weather patterns in Ontario and Quebec will become unsettled due to Champi's influence on the jet stream.

Cockroach Janta Party co-conveners Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka withdrew their Delhi High Court plea challenging the extension of their judicial custody by a Special Executive Magistrate. The court asked them to await the outcome of a hearing before the magistrate and approach the appellate court if their grievance persists.

Wednesday marks the first anniversary of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's leadership that has seen her alienate China, rattle markets with her expansive spending and establish herself as a workaholic leader. - Expansive government spending - Takaichi's programme of big government spending and the Bank of Japan's relatively low-key interest rate have unnerved the markets and pushed Japan's benchmark bond yield to its highest level in three decades.

Apprehension surrounding election disruptions is shaping how Americans approach voting, with many fearing intimidation while exercising their rights. The Trump administration's federal actions have further fueled these anxieties, jeopardizing public trust in the electoral framework. Yet, in the face of these uncertainties, early voting has seen considerable turnout, with state authorities proactively planning to maintain election safety this coming November.

After a weekend of protests, riots and looting, France is looking to head off further unrest, ahead of fresh demonstrations called for Saturday. - Shops - The government has announced interest-free loans for 3,000 shops that were damaged, many of them looted, during last weekend's unrest.

'She's a sick person, could go to jail': Trump rips into Ilhan Omar as immigration probe continues

Getty Images has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as part of its restructuring plans to go private. This decision follows the collapse of its merger with Shutterstock due to heavy debt and competition. The Getty family and Koch Equity Development will take full ownership after the restructuring process. Getty is expected to continue operations without impacting its partners, employees, or contributors.

Donald Trump has proposed that data centre operators pay dividends to local communities to gain support. He emphasized that these facilities should generate their own electricity and sell excess power. Trump's observations indicate that financial agreements can change the public's perception of data centres. He encourages negotiations to accelerate construction and foster public acceptance of such projects. The proposal aims to address concerns about rising electricity prices in local areas.

Humanity is heading towards a hotter world due to increasing carbon emissions primarily from the United States. The United Nations Environment Programme has updated its climate projections, indicating a potential rise of 1.2 degrees Celsius. The report notes that while most economies reduced emissions, the United States' emissions have surged significantly. These changes could lead to severe consequences for vulnerable communities and ecosystems globally.