The Economic Times

Seven women candidates have won seats in Bangladesh's 13th national election. Six are from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, which is set to form the government. Barrister Rumin Farhana won as an independent. This election marks a shift as neither Sheikh Hasina nor Khaleda Zia, who dominated politics for decades, were leading their parties. Voter turnout was over 59 percent.

Silver prices jumped 4.6% to $78.59 per ounce after a recent decline, driven by industrial demand, market speculation, and global investor interest. Analysts discuss if silver could surpass $100 soon and how it differs from gold. U.S. inflation data and market trends are influencing metals trading.

Usman Tariq: Pakistan's mystery off-spinner Usman Tariq is making waves at the T20 World Cup with his unconventional bowling action, featuring a distinctive pause. Despite past investigations, he has been cleared by biomechanical tests, but his unique style continues to puzzle batsmen and spark debate among cricket experts.

The U.S. space race intensifies as billionaires Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos pivot their companies, SpaceX and Blue Origin, towards lunar ambitions. Musk plans Moonbase Alpha and satellite deployment, while Bezos shifts Blue Origin's focus to its Blue Moon lander. Both aim to beat China's 2030 moon mission, with SpaceX eyeing a $1 trillion IPO.

During an energetic rally led by party chief Vijay, an unsettling event unfolded as 37-year-old Suraj suddenly fainted, clutching his chest. Immediate medical attention was sought, but he tragically passed away shortly after being admitted to the hospital. Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

L'Oreal's share price was down 3.2 per cent in morning trading, partly recovering from a drop of more than six per cent at the open.

An international online summit delved into QUADRO, a collaborative framework uniting the US, China, India, and Russia. Analysts engaged in dynamic discussions around practical partnerships in critical fields such as vaccine distribution and environmental data exchange. This initiative seeks to bring stability back to global governance. The conversations underscored the importance of joint risk strategies rather than divided alliances.

Valentines Day 2026: While romantic dinners and elaborate surprises are popular ways to celebrate Valentines Day, sometimes a simple, sincere message can carry the deepest meaning.

Mumbai's Coastal Road, with its innovative musical section playing the iconic 'Jai Ho,' has become a talking point among citizens. However, Amit Thackeray of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has raised eyebrows, questioning why a traditional Marathi tune wasn't selected. He proposes the inclusion of the state anthem or timeless melodies from Lata Mangeshkar to better reflect local culture.

U.S. Stock Market today: S&P 500, Dow Jones, Nasdaq are trading low in the pre-market trading on Friday.

Lao Tzu, one of the greatest Chinese philosophers, says that when people are content within themselves, and they don't compare and compete with others, people start respecting them. We should stop trying to copy others and try to be authentic. People should so their SWOT analysis and apply this rule on social media too. Rather than engaging in metrics, people should try to create real and motivating content.

The father of the Tumbler Ridge school shooter has broken his silence, expressing profound sorrow for the nine lives lost. He revealed he was estranged from Jesse Van Rootselaar and was not involved in his upbringing. The mass shooting incident occurred in the remote Canadian town in northeastern British Columbia on Tuesday (February 10, 2026), leaving nine people dead.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Pradhan accused Gandhi of being a 'statement warrior' who creates excuses to disrupt Parliament. He stated that disrupting proceedings has become the Congress's identity. Pradhan added that the party does not believe in constitutional norms or democratic procedures.

Gold rate prediction: Gold price recovered from a nearly one-week low in the previous session, as investors await key U.S. inflation figures for cues on the direction of interest rates following robust jobs data.

A scandal has erupted as an FDA clerk was caught red-handed accepting a bribe at the state secretariat. In light of these allegations, Minister Narhari Zirwal offered to step down should his involvement be confirmed. The Congress party reacted strongly, denouncing the government for rampant corruption and demanding a full investigation to ensure accountability.

Tarique Rahman Bangladesh Election: Bangladesh's political landscape shifts as the BNP emerges dominant. Tarique Rahman's potential premiership presents India with both challenges and opportunities. Past security concerns linger, but recent diplomatic signals suggest a pragmatic approach. The new government's focus on economic cooperation will be key to strengthening ties with India.

Global leaders gather for the Munich Security Conference amidst numerous conflicts. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlights a critical juncture for transatlantic relations. Europe is strengthening its position and pursuing more autonomy. The conference addresses pressing issues like the war in Ukraine and global trade disruptions. A record number of world leaders are attending this significant security summit.

The Kerala High Court has dismissed a petition from Smart Creations CEO Pankaj Bhandari. He challenged his arrest in the Sabarimala gold misappropriation case. The court found no illegality in his arrest. Bhandari and another jeweller are accused of conspiring to steal gold from temple artefacts. The Special Investigation Team is probing the alleged theft.

Seva Teerth new PMO: PM Modi unveiled the plaque of Seva Teerth at the new complex -- the name inscribed in Devanagari script on the wall of the complex. Below it is the motto 'Nagrik Devo Bhava' (citizen is akin to God).

In a groundbreaking move, Kerala has introduced its inaugural Urban Policy, setting the stage for sustainable urban growth as the state anticipates reaching an 80% urbanization rate by 2050. The policy emphasizes smart planning and transparent governance, aiming for holistic urban development. It aspires to uplift marginalized communities and improve city infrastructures, fostering a more equitable society.

Muhammad Ali was a legendary boxer, the first to win the heavyweight championship three times. His quote, It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it's the pebble in your shoe, highlights how small, persistent distractions can be more draining than major challenges, a lesson relevant in work, relationships, and personal growth.

Four laborers, including three women, died in Rajasthan's Bhilwara district after allegedly consuming a toxic chemical mistaken for liquor. The incident occurred late Thursday night in Aloli village, with one person still in critical condition. Police have collected samples for testing as investigations continue.

Mumbai Cherry Blossom 2026: Every February, a 12-kilometer stretch of the Eastern Express Highway (EEH) in Vikhroli undergoes a magical transformation, as hundreds of Pink Trumpet trees (Tabebuia rosea) burst into vibrant, cotton-candy blooms. Often called the citys desi cherry blossoms, these trees have become a seasonal cultural landmark for photographers, commuters, and couples alike. However

The Australian sharemarket saw a dip on Friday, February 13, 2026, but concluded its best week in ten months. Strong company earnings, especially from banks, propelled the benchmark towards record territory. Utilities sector performed well, while financials and healthcare stocks experienced declines. Major companies like Austal and Nick Scali saw significant drops.

Opposition leaders of Tamil Nadu slam Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for his early morning declaration of a Rs 5,000 payout aimed at women beneficiaries. They termed it as a sign of election fatigue and fear of imminent defeat in the upcoming 2026 Assemblt polls.

Derek O'Brien, a TMC Rajya Sabha MP, has urged the government to implement a universal basic minimum wage. He highlighted unemployment among youth and stagnant wages for employed individuals. O'Brien proposed 'UMANG', a legally binding national minimum wage to boost consumption and alleviate poverty across all sectors, including unorganised and gig workers.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by the late Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman, claimed victory in the general elections to replace the interim administration, which took charge after the collapse of the Awami League regime in August 2024.

A new scientific review highlights a simple seated movement, lifting heels repeatedly, that can significantly reduce post-meal sugar spikes. This low-cost solution may help manage type 2 diabetes, which is rising in India, especially among younger adults with sedentary lifestyles.

President Trump is reportedly planning to reduce some tariffs on steel and aluminum. Officials believe these tariffs are increasing prices for everyday items. This move comes as consumer costs are a major concern for voters ahead of the midterm elections. The administration is reviewing affected products for potential exemptions and more targeted national security reviews.

Telangana Municipal Election 2026 Result: Congress is set to sweep the municipal elections in Telangana and it has secured 240 wards as of 1 pm. BRS has fared well and it secured the second position. The BJP has struggled to keep the pace in the local body polls and in the early rounds of counting, the BJP alleged discrepancies at several centres.

The Bench of Justice Subramonium Prasad of Delhi High Court on Friday directed that the civil defamation suit filed by Priya Sachdeva Kapur against Mandhira Kapur Smith and a podcaster be listed before the same judge who is hearing the main suit relating to the family dispute.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) expressed gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party thanked Modi for acknowledging the people's verdict in Bangladesh's general elections. BNP anticipates stronger relations between the two nations under their new government. Prime Minister Modi had congratulated Tarique Rahman on the BNP's victory.

A significant earthquake, measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale, has just hit the Balochistan region of Pakistan. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the tremor, indicating a notable seismic event in the area. Further details regarding the impact and any potential damage are still emerging.

Honasa Consumer is set to outpace market predictions for fiscal 2027, driven by a robust resurgence of its beloved Mamaearth brand. The company is strategically targeting acquisitions in innovative product lines to diversify its offerings. Honasa is optimistic about achieving high-teen percentage revenue growth in the upcoming fiscal year.

In a dramatic escalation, North Korea has threatened of terrible response to any future drone activities from South Korea. As Seoul probes a recent drone episode, officials promise to enhance security measures. This intensifying tension may jeopardize vital diplomatic initiatives and the upcoming party congress in North Korea.

Nomura has revised its outlook, now anticipating no interest rate cut by India's central bank in April. This shift stems from projected inflation increases and existing stealth easing measures. The Reserve Bank of India's policy corridor, with the call rate near 5%, suggests a pause is likely, despite new inflation data.

Shanaya Kapoor, daughter of Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor, started her journey in Bollywood by working as an assistant director on the film Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl. She made her acting debut with Vikrant Massey in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan but the movie failed to deliver at the box office. Today, her second movie Tu Yaa Main has hit the theatres and is set to clash with Shahid Kapoor's O Romeo.

Israel is taking steps to help settlers acquire land and increase its authority in Palestinian self-rule areas. These actions are seen as a blow to the two-state solution, a vision for peace backed by world powers. The conflict's origins trace back to the partition of Palestine. Obstacles like settlement expansion and core issue disagreements persist.

CIA China military recruitment video: The CIA released a recruitment video targeting Chinese military officials, capitalizing on potential disillusionment following President Xi Jinping's purges. The video depicts a fictional officer disillusioned by the removal of qualified leaders, aiming to attract informants. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance intelligence collection on China.

Noida Road Accident: A software engineer is battling critical brain injuries after his motorcycle collided with a stray bull in Noidas Sector 168. The incident highlights the persistent danger posed by free-roaming cattle on city roads. Authorities are being urged to strengthen enforcement and improve infrastructure to prevent such accidents, as the recurring problem continues to put commuters at serious daily risk.

Mahashivratri 2026: Maha Shivaratri 2026 arrives on February 15th. This sacred festival honors Lord Shiva with night-long worship, fasting, and prayers. Devotees will perform Rudrabhishek, a ritual seeking blessings for health and prosperity. The night offers a chance for spiritual purification and inner transformation. Special puja timings are detailed for this auspicious occasion.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday announced that Rs 617.98 crore has been approved for 10 road development projects in Assam under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) scheme, along with Rs 129.74 crore for 16 bridge projects under the CRIF Setu Bandhan scheme.

Sonys February 12, 2026, State of Play delivered a nostalgic punch and a glimpse into the future of gaming. The showstopper was the double-reveal for the God of War franchise: a ground-up remake of the original Greek Trilogy is in early development, while a brand-new 2D action-platformer, God of War: Sons of Sparta, was shadow-dropped and is available to play right now. Other major headlines included the announcement of a John Wick game featuring Keanu Reeves, the sequel Kena: Scars of Kosmora,

Zimbabwe faces a major setback as veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor is out of the T20 World Cup. Taylor sustained an injury during a group match earlier this week. He retired hurt after scoring 31 runs against Oman. The exact nature of his injury remains unclear. Captain Sikandar Raza confirmed Taylor's absence.

Playback singer Dhvani Bhanushali follows a disciplined Pilates routine to maintain strength, flexibility, and core stability, supporting overall fitness, wellness, and physical balance essential for her active lifestyle.