The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
Shein's founder, Sky Xu, appeared briefly at the Hong Kong stock exchange debut. He maintained a reclusive persona, unlike other company leaders. This low profile reflects a broader trend among Chinese businessmen today. Shein's valuation has significantly decreased from its previous peak. The company faced past rejections for overseas stock exchange listings.
The Spirit of Miami, a retired Boeing 727, now lies submerged beneath the waves, purposefully sunk to provide an ecological haven. The devastation caused by Tropical Storm Gordon split the aircraft, revealing the ocean's ferocity. Nevertheless, both pieces play host to thriving marine life, including corals and fish. Scientists actively research these underwater wrecks, focusing on their environmental contributions and insights for upcoming reef constructions.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is embarking on his busiest foreign travel schedule in more than seven years, visiting Central Asia and Egypt and expected to attend the BRICS summit in India before meeting Donald Trump in Washington, as Beijing seeks to expand its global influence.
In 2009, the retired missile ship Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg was deliberately sunk near Key West, giving rise to a significant artificial reef. This initiative, supported by conservationists and local authorities, provided a new haven for various fish species. Engaged volunteer divers collected essential data, demonstrating the effectiveness of citizen science in ecological studies. The wreck has since become a renowned dive location, highlighting the swift revival of marine life.
Gurnoor Brar seeks all-format consistency after learning from Bumrah and Siraj. He aims to handle heavy workloads by strengthening his body through consistent bowling. Interactions with coaches and senior players have significantly improved his bowling craft. Brar gained confidence from recent performances on challenging Sri Lankan wickets. He believes a prejudice-free mind is essential for success on any pitch.
India's space agency ISRO is preparing to launch its GSLV-F17 rocket soon. This rocket will carry the EOS-05 satellite into a specific orbit. The EOS-05 satellite will provide continuous Earth observation imagery. This advanced satellite will monitor weather and support disaster management efforts. It also aims to enhance security and strategic observation capabilities.
To prolong the freshness of papayas, wrap their stems in aluminum foil. This effective method minimizes ethylene gas emission from the fruit. When dealing with cut papayas, ensure that every exposed area is completely covered with foil. Store these wrapped fruits at room temperature, keeping them out of direct sunlight. Additionally, maintaining distance from other ripening fruits is beneficial for extended freshness.
A Mexican company, Petgas, converts plastic waste into fuel using a process called pyrolysis. This innovative machine processes significant amounts of plastic weekly without burning or landfilling. While this offers a waste management solution, the environmental impact of the resulting fuel remains a concern. Pyrolysis can emit varying levels of greenhouse gases and air pollutants depending on operation.
Iran's Central Bank Governor stated sufficient foreign currency reserves exist despite sanctions. He announced plans to inject two billion dollars into the market. This move aims to calm recent foreign exchange market volatility. Iranian officials acknowledge economic difficulties and livelihood management challenges. The Governor assured that collapse has not happened and will not happen.
Spains brutal summer heat has revived the traditionalabanico, with Spaniards and tourists using folding hand fans across plazas, public transport, concerts and festivals. Once a symbol of Spanish aristocracy and flamenco culture, the centuries-old accessory is enjoying renewed popularity, while soaring temperatures are also giving fan sellers a welcome business boost.
Miley Cyrus has dropped her last name from her social media profiles, now going by simply 'Miley'. This bold move has sparked excitement and speculation that her next album might be titled 'MILEY'. Fans eagerly anticipate more updates on the album and its release date.
Indias gross GST revenue rose 14.8% year-on-year to Rs 1.99 lakh crore in August 2026, up from Rs 1.74 lakh crore a year earlier. However, collections fell from Rs 2.11 lakh crore in July 2026.
Congress party has strongly criticised the Modi government, alleging that rising prices are putting pressure on ordinary citizens while accusing the government of using statistical manipulation to conceal the impact of inflation. Recent increases in the prices of raw materials such as copper, aluminium and electrical components have also contributed to higher home construction costs. The party further criticised the government's claims about GDP growth, calling them misleading.
Modi warned against double standards on terrorism at the SCO summit in Bishkek and said wars and conflicts must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also backed efforts to connect markets and facilitate trade to drive development.
A former Maoist commander has surrendered and now coordinates a university program. Bhupathi will work to secure legal rights for tribal communities in Gadchiroli. He will inform villagers about their rights under specific government acts. His role involves helping with documentation and correcting forest-rights claims.
The Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz are reshaping global oil trade, with producers across the Americas gaining market share from the Middle East. Crude exports from the region have hit record levels as Asian buyers prioritise supply security despite higher shipping costs.
India's economy grew 7.8 percent in the April-June quarter, showing resilience. Veteran banker Uday Kotak noted ongoing geopolitical and economic risks. Unresolved Middle East tensions and AI advancements pose challenges. US bond yields are also creating market volatility for India. Despite these concerns, India has built foreign currency deposits for protection.
Nepal authorities issued a fresh flood alert for several districts. The death toll from last week's catastrophic floods climbed close to one thousand. Rescuers are searching hydropower tunnels for hundreds of unaccounted workers. Mass burials are underway for unidentified flood victims as identification efforts continue. Flood warnings remain in effect for communities along affected rivers.
It seems that Spider-Man's web of love extends beyond the big screen, as three couples from the franchise found romance while filming. Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst struck up their relationship during the first movie, while Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone's chemistry developed on set. Most recently, Tom Holland and Zendaya have captured hearts as they became the newest couple in this web of on-screen connections.
Gold and silver have rallied sharply, but renewed US rate hike fears following Fed Chief Kevin Warshs Jackson Hole remarks have clouded the near-term outlook. While experts remain bullish on both metals, gold is preferred for stability and safe-haven demand, whereas silver offers higher upside potential but comes with greater volatility and correction risks.
While the BOJ was already widely expected to lift rates in September as inflation pressures grew, Bessent's recent comments effectively lock the bank into doing so and put pressure on it to step up hikes going forward.
European Central Bank must prepare for a prolonged Middle East conflict. This situation could maintain elevated inflation within the Eurozone economy. Policymaker Olli Rehn stressed the need for vigilance against these pressures. Energy prices have risen due to regional tensions and shipping concerns. The bank must remain attentive to these developing inflationary trends.
Players of Garena Free Fire MAX in India can snag free in-game rewards through redeem codes. These codes unlock exciting valuables such as diamonds and unique weapon skins, enhancing gameplay without real money expenditure. To claim these rewards, players should head to the official Garena Rewards Redemption website. It's essential to act fast, as these codes tend to expire rapidly.
British advertising group WPP plans to cut up to one thousand more jobs this year. This latest round adds to over eleven thousand job losses since early twenty twenty-five. The company is also offloading non-core businesses and surplus office space. Advertising industry-wide slowdown has seen eighteen thousand jobs cut across agencies. Executives say restructuring plans are increasingly designed with artificial intelligence tools in mind.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has directed measures to strengthen Assams dairy sector, including higher milk production, expanded Dairy Cooperative Societies, increased processing capacity and better procurement. Assam currently produces 33.53 lakh litres of milk daily, with 4.20 lakh litres of additional processing capacity coming up. The state also plans wider cooperative coverage and support for dairy farmers.
Following a critical oil crisis, India has surfaced as a pivotal fuel supplier. Refineries reached peak performance, promoting export expansion. This development facilitated fuel provision to nations like Kenya. Nonetheless, the crisis underscored India's reliance on Gulf gas sources, emphasizing the need for varied suppliers and robust strategic oil reserves for future preparedness.
The Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to continue White House ballroom construction. This ruling blocks a lower court order halting above-ground development. A historic preservation group sued to stop the project last year. The court cited national security and legal standing for its decision.
The Trump administration plans to allocate at least $25 million to European civil society groups, including $4 million aimed at strengthening right-wing media and journalism. The funding, described by the State Department as supporting free speech and transatlantic ties, has triggered concerns in Europe over potential US interference in domestic politics.
Nepals devastating floods have damaged hydropower plants, roads, bridges and essential infrastructure, knocking out about 10% of the countrys power capacity. Experts say reconstruction must prioritise resilience over simple replacement, with better locations, early-warning systems, backup power and alternate routes, as climate change intensifies Himalayan flood and landslide risks.
A powerful flash flood swept through Grand Canyon National Park over the weekend. Rescuers found the bodies of a Texas chiropractor and at least one other person. Approximately eighty people were rescued from the dangerous deluge while one person remains missing. The severe flooding also destroyed miles of the park's essential water pipeline. Emergency water restrictions are now in place for residents and tourists within the park.
Democrat Tom Begich withdrew from Alaska's governor's race on Monday. He endorsed fellow Democrat Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins to consolidate party efforts. This move aims to win a governor's seat not held by Democrats for decades. Republicans face their own ballot challenges after a candidate's disqualification. Alaska's ranked-choice voting system reshapes the general election contest.
China issued a warning of unspecified consequences after Taiwan attended the Pacific Islands Forum. Australia and New Zealand rejected China's assertion of influence over forum attendees. Taiwan defended its participation as a partner working for a prosperous Pacific. Major powers are competing for influence and offering infrastructure investments. This competition highlights ongoing strategic concerns in the Pacific region.
A Las Vegas jury convicted Duane Davis for orchestrating Tupac Shakur's 1996 murder. Davis, who admitted involvement, faced charges after years of public statements. Prosecutors used his own words and memoir to build the case against him. The trial also explored gang and record label rivalries surrounding Shakur. This conviction brings a resolution to a nearly three-decade-old case.
Oil prices rose on Tuesday as renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran in the Middle East revived concerns over potential supply disruptions from the worlds key crude-producing region.
Ukraines top sanctions official Vladyslav Vlasiuk will visit Washington to lobby House lawmakers to back a sweeping Russia sanctions bill passed by the Senate. The legislation could authorise tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian energy, including India, while facing Democratic opposition over expanded presidential tariff powers.
Gold prices held steady as traders navigated heightened tensions in the Middle East and awaited pivotal labor data from the US. This economic data is expected to shape the market's forecast regarding Federal Reserve policy moves. With a 65% likelihood of a rate increase in September, market eyes are keen.
On Tuesday, oil prices surged as concerns over supply disruptions arose due to escalating conflicts in the Middle East. Both Brent crude futures and West Texas Intermediate crude experienced notable gains. Tensions escalated following the recent direct confrontations between the U.S. and Iran, compounded by shipping data indicating a reduction in vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Notably, a tanker reported being struck by projectiles while passing through the area.
Is Pete Hegseth eyeing a 2028 presidential run? Trump says 'it's very early'
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has blamed climate change for last weeks devastating Himalayan flood, calling it an extraordinary disaster triggered by a glacial collapse. With at least 939 people dead and nearly 4,500 missing, Shah urged Nepal to press the international community for climate action and support.
The metals sector has achieved a double-digit return this year, outperforming other indices. Realty stocks have seen a significant turnaround, gaining nearly four percent after last year's decline. Telecom, Capital Goods, and Healthcare also emerged as strong performers with substantial gains. IT and FMCG stocks have been the major laggards, facing earnings growth concerns. Favorable pricing and demand support the metals sector's positive outlook.
The US FTC and 22 states have sued Amazon, alleging it manipulated digital advertising auctions and overcharged about 1.2 million customers by more than $20 billion. Amazon rejected the allegations as misguided and flawed. The lawsuit targets Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands and Sponsored Display, intensifying scrutiny of the tech giant.
President Donald Trump advocates for federal tax incentives to boost American film production. He urged Republicans and Democrats to craft legislation immediately for this purpose. Actor Jon Voight also suggested similar tax credits to revitalize the industry. A coalition including major industry groups supports the proposed 20% labor cost tax credit. This initiative aims to prevent entertainment production from moving overseas.
North American Blue Energy Partners will acquire Venezuelan oilfields from Chinese and Russian companies. This move follows a significant oil production agreement announced by President Donald Trump. The U.S. company will gain access to 64 billion barrels of Venezuela's proven oil reserves. This arrangement displaces existing Chinese and Russian interests in the nation's energy sector.
Taiwans experience therefore challenges the idea that recycling depends mainly on individual environmental enthusiasm. People certainly need to participate, but participation becomes easier when governments create systems that are convenient, predictable and enforceable.
Two decades after 2006, Portlands lighting story offers a useful lesson for cities considering their own energy transitions. The important achievement is not that 45,000 lights were converted in 2006.

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