The Economic Times

Medics are working to evacuate two individuals with hantavirus symptoms from a luxury cruise ship off West Africa after an outbreak claimed three lives. The Dutch-flagged MV Hondius, carrying mostly British, American, and Spanish passengers, has been denied docking as a precaution.

U.S. stocks fell from their record heights, while oil prices jumped following escalations in the Middle East that may undermine the ceasefire in the war with Iran.

US President Donald Trump has intensified warnings against Iran, stating that the United States can't let Iran have a nuclear weapon and threatening severe retaliation if US assets are targeted under Project Freedom.

A large number of assembly seats in West Bengal have reported that electors marked ineligible under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), along with those still under adjudication, exceed the final victory margins.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Tamil Nadu voters for supporting the BJP and NDA. They reaffirmed the central government's commitment to the state's development. Actor-turned-politician Vijay's party, TVK, made a significant debut, winning many seats. This marks a potential shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape.

A South Korean ship experienced an explosion and fire in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Trump stated Iran was responsible for the attack. No casualties were reported. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze. The incident occurred as the U.S. initiated an operation to secure shipping lanes. South Korea is reviewing intelligence and considering its response.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the BJP's West Bengal election win. He stated the victory signifies a vote for stability and development amidst global economic challenges. Modi urged an end to violence and vendetta in the state. He assured the new government will work for public aspirations and act against illegal immigrants.

Met Gala 2026: Outside the museum, protesters in colorful outfits held letters spelling out ax the rich and banners reading esistance red carpet and eat the rich.

India has a brand new political map. A massive topple in Bengal, a twist in the Tamil Nadu potboiler, power grip in Assam and Puducherry, and anti-incumbency in Kerala this crucial round of Assembly elections sees BJP tighten dominance across the country, with a very special appearance by Vijays TVK.

Blake Lively-Justin Baldoni settlement ends more than a year of acrimonious litigation that drew intense publicity as details of Lively's allegations and Baldoni's counterclaims trickled out in court filings.

FIFA has concluded agreements with broadcasters in over 175 territories globally, it said in a statement to Reuters.

Actor Vijay's new political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has achieved a stunning victory in Tamil Nadu. The party has become the largest in the state, unseating the incumbent DMK government. MK Stalin has lost his chief minister position. This marks a significant political shift, with Vijay becoming an overnight sensation.

Donald Trump had positioned himself as a champion of unfettered AI development, rolling back Biden-era safety evaluation requirements and casting regulation as a threat to US competitiveness with China.

Layoff resignation timing story: A worker proactively prepared for potential layoffs during a company restructuring by applying for new roles and optimizing his job search with AI tools. This foresight led to a senior position offer with a 30% salary increase, just before his company announced layoffs, resulting in a fortunate transition with severance and a new job lined up.

Quote of the Day: Helen Keller's life, marked by blindness and deafness from infancy, became a testament to resilience. Her journey, guided by Anne Sullivan, led to groundbreaking achievements in education and communication. Keller's powerful quote, Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it, reflects her profound personal experience and enduring message of hope.

US interest rates are still high and causing problems for home buyers. Donald Trump criticized Fed Chair Jerome Powell over this issue. Mortgage rates are above 6.5% and changing often. Inflation, global conflict, and economic slowdown are key reasons. Even without a Federal Reserve meeting, rates can move. People planning to buy homes are waiting and watching closely.

Will UAE fight back Iran? The United States moved to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iran launched missile and drone attacks on the UAE and commercial ships. The conflict has raised oil prices, disrupted shipping, and increased global economic pressure. Military operations, sanctions, and naval blockades are now shaping the next phase of the crisis.

The United Democratic Front has achieved a historic win in Kerala, defeating the Left Democratic Front. This marks a significant setback for the Communist party, leaving them without any government in India. The Congress now governs four states, showcasing its Kerala unit's strength. The election also saw the incumbent government voted out, a return to Kerala's political trend.

The dispute adds to tensions over a long-delayed transatlantic trade pact. The two sides reached an initial agreement last July, but EU lawmakers have yet to ratify it as they seek amendments. Trump said Friday the bloc had failed to fully comply with the deal.

Indian pharmaceutical exports reached over $31 billion in FY26. March saw a significant 23% drop, primarily due to a slowdown in the United States and China. However, other markets like Africa and Oceania showed strong growth. Vaccines emerged as the fastest-growing export category. The industry is navigating challenges in key markets while exploring new growth avenues.

Several prominent charitable organizations in Mumbai are facing the cancellation of their tax registrations. The tax department cites commercial activities as the reason for rejecting renewals. The Reliance charitable trust is challenging this decision. Other organizations like PD Hinduja Hospital and ISKCON are also in the process of appealing. This situation impacts tax relief for these trusts and donor deductions.

The dominant National Democratic Alliance constituent at the Centre has registered its maiden victory in West Bengal, retained Assam and Puducherry (with alliance partners) and won a record three seats in Kerala. It won only one seat in Tamil Nadu, against four in 2021.

The AINRC-led NDA is poised to form the government in Puducherry. Chief Minister N Rangasamy secured victory in the Thattanchavady constituency. Election Commission figures show AINRC leading in multiple seats. The alliance requires 16 seats for a majority in the 30-member assembly. Rangasamy's win marks a significant step towards his second consecutive term as chief minister.

The UAE has exited OPEC and OPEC+ stating it is a sovereign decision. This comes after an ADNOC tanker was hit by Iranian drones in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE called it a terrorist attack. Officials emphasized the Strait of Hormuz must remain open for global economic stability.

The TVK party has become the largest in Tamil Nadu, leading in over 100 constituencies. Plans are now in motion to form the government. Candidates are being called to the party office. Discussions with potential allies like the Congress are expected. The DMK has accepted the election results. This marks a significant shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape.

Vijay-led TVK has emerged as the single largest party in Tamil Nadu, disrupting the long-standing dominance of Dravidian parties. The actor-turned-politician's party is leading in 107 constituencies, surpassing the majority mark needed to form the government. This electoral debut saw significant gains across northern, central, and southern districts, including a major upset with CM MK Stalin losing his seat.

RBI cautioned such campaigns can mislead borrowers into believing their obligations can be written off outside formal processes, which could affect repayment behaviour and weaken credit discipline. Such campaigns not only mislead the general public but also interfere with the orderly functioning of the credit system of the country, it said.

Tensions in the Gulf are escalating rapidly, with a UAE official warning of a potential US or Israeli strike on Iran within 24 hours. Recent missile attacks, naval clashes in the Strait of Hormuz, and heightened military activity suggest a major confrontation may be imminent, impacting global markets and oil prices.

Korean proverb proves action matters more than knowledge: There is an ancient Korean proverb that cuts straight to the bone of human experience: Knowing the road and walking the road are clearly different. Most people who hear it nod immediately. It feels simple at first glance. Almost obvious. But that simplicity hides an uncomfortable truth. That is why this Korean proverb of the day is not just wisdom. It is a mirror.

New student loan rules may help people who lose jobs. The plan could count no-payment months for loan forgiveness. This can help middle-class workers avoid delays in becoming debt-free. Many people on income-based plans may benefit. The bill also talks about faster relief. But it is not final yet and depends on government approval before becoming law.

IRS tax deadline extension 2026: Washington residents hit by severe weather now have until August 15, 2026, to file taxes, thanks to an IRS extension. This relief, triggered by a FEMA disaster declaration, automatically applies to eligible individuals and businesses. Meanwhile, nationwide, Americans anticipate an average $1,700 refund, primarily for essentials like rent and groceries.

The psychology of people who constantly try to impress others reveals a complex mix of emotional needs, learned behaviours, and social pressures. While the desire for approval is natural, losing oneself in the process comes at a cost.

US stock market crashes today. Investors are asking whats happening with the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite. Nearly $200 billion vanished in minutes. The Dow fell 565 points. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq slipped as well. Every sector turned red. This was not random. Oil surged fast. WTI jumped 3.4%. Brent climbed 5%. Rising tension near the Strait of Hormuz changed sentiment instantly.

The Bharatiya Janata Party achieved a significant victory in the West Bengal Assembly elections. Their campaign focused on booth-level organization and local leadership. The party also utilized digital tools and revised electoral rolls. This strategy effectively countered the Trinamool Congress's long-standing dominance, leading to a decisive outcome.

Russia on Monday declared a unilateral ceasefire with Ukraine between May 8-9, when Moscow marks its annual World War II Victory Day commemorations, and threatened a massive missile strike on Kyiv if Ukraine violated it. In accordance with a decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces, Vladimir Putin, a ceasefire has been declared from May 8-9, 2026 ...

Quote of the Day: Carl Rogers, a pioneering psychologist, believed true education is the ability to learn and change. His words remain relevant today, urging continuous adaptation. Rogers' life and work, from his early studies to developing client-centred therapy, highlight his focus on human growth.

The U.S. military destroyed six Iranian small boats and intercepted drones and cruise missiles as it launched an operation to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Admiral Brad Cooper stated that ongoing IRGC efforts to interfere with the operation were defeated. He emphasized a multi-layered defensive arrangement, not traditional escorts, to protect commercial traffic.

India will challenge US accusations of excess manufacturing capacity on May 8. Indian trade officials and industry representatives will present their case. The US probe targets sectors like petrochemicals, steel, and solar modules. India denies these claims, stating trade surpluses are macroeconomic phenomena. This hearing is part of a broader US investigation into trade practices.

Quote of the day by Martin Luther King Jr inspires global readers searching for moral responsibility and life direction. Hidden truth by Martin Luther King Jr. reveals a sharp reality. Most people already know what is right. Yet action remains rare. In todays fast digital world, awareness grows faster than courage. Social media spreads truth instantly. Real change still moves slowly. This gap defines modern moral failure. It shapes society, workplaces, and personal life. Experts call it the awar

The United Arab Emirates reported Iranian attacks. This happened after US President Donald Trump's initiative to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran launched missiles and a drone. This caused fires and injuries. Two cargo vessels were also ablaze. US Navy ships are helping to restore traffic. Iran warns foreign forces will be targeted.

National Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 offers numerous deals and freebies for educators from May 4-8. Many businesses, including Chipotle, Whataburger, and various restaurants, are providing discounts, free meals, and special offers to acknowledge the hard work of teachers. These promotions aim to show gratitude during a time when many teachers face financial challenges.

Defence PSU BEL, Metamind Systems, and Kristellar Aerospace have signed an MoU to co-develop future-ready products and technologies for defence and non-defence sectors. This collaboration aims to leverage their combined strengths in manufacturing, AI-driven analytics, and aerospace R&D to boost competitiveness and deliver scalable solutions, supporting India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.

Todays quote of the day by Jean Piaget shows that intelligence is not only about knowing answers. It is about thinking when you feel confused. His life work explains how children learn step by step. The message is simpleuse your mind, try new ideas, and solve problems when you dont know what to do in life.

West Bengal government has ordered all departmental secretaries and heads of offices to strictly safeguard official files and documents. No important papers or files can be taken out of offices without authorization. Unauthorized copying or scanning of records is also prohibited. Departmental heads are personally responsible for ensuring compliance. Strict action will be taken for any deviation from these guidelines.

V S Babu, a former legislator, has caused a major upset by defeating DMK president M K Stalin in the Kolathur constituency. Babu, who joined the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam earlier this year, secured victory by a margin of 8,795 votes.