The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Carl Jung: Carl Jung defined addiction as a deep human dependency on anything that offers escape from pain, stress, or emptiness, extending beyond substances to habits, relationships, and even ideas. He warned that extreme idealism can be as dangerous as substance abuse, leading to a loss of balance and independent thought.

A 25-year-old earning 1 lakh a month has sparked debate online after revealing how his parents want him to become the primary borrower for a 92 lakh commercial property loan despite having no savings themselves. The man claims the deal depends on a risky cash refund arrangement, uncertain rental income, and hopes of selling the property at a huge profit later. His detailed financial breakdown has now gone viral.

Quote of the day by Bill Gates: Bill Gates' quote, I choose a lazy person to do a hard job. Because a lazy person will find an easy way to do it, is gaining traction online. It champions efficiency and innovation, highlighting how disliking unnecessary effort drives people to find smarter, simpler solutions. This principle is crucial in today's tech-driven world, valuing smart work over long hours.

African proverb of the day focuses on the Nigerian saying that a womans strength comes from her heart. The proverb explains emotional resilience, courage, nurturing, and inner power. It highlights how emotional intelligence helps families and communities stay united. The proverb also shows why emotional and mental strength matters more than physical force in modern life and daily struggles across the world.

Quote of the Day by Fernando Pessoa: Fernando Pessoas quote, We never love anyone. What we love is the idea we have of someone. It's our own conceptour own selvesthat we love, explores the difference between real love and emotional perception in relationships. The quote suggests that people often fall in love not with a person exactly as they are, but with the image, meaning, and emotional idea they create in their own minds.

A rare albino buffalo in Bangladesh has become an internet sensation, nicknamed 'Donald Trump' due to its golden hair and perceived resemblance to the US president. The animal is drawing large crowds ahead of Eid al-Adha celebrations, with locals agreeing with the uncanny comparison. Another buffalo, named 'Benjamin Netanyahu', is also gaining attention for its energetic nature.

Global Bond Yields Spike to Multi-Decade Highs as Iran War Fuels Inflation Crisis: From Washington to Tokyo, governments are now paying the most to borrow in a generation. The Iran war's energy shock is rewriting the rules of global finance and the bill is only getting larger. The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield hit 4.621% while the 30-year breached 5.14%, levels unseen since 2007. UK gilt yields surged to century highs, and Japan's bonds hit all-time records.

Heatwave conditions are set to grip Northwest and Central India. Maximum temperatures may soar to 45 degrees Celsius. Several states including Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are under alert. Delhi-NCR can expect temperatures between 42-44 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, parts of South India will see rainfall, with Kerala facing heavy to very heavy showers.

The Middle East war is impacting jobs and pay worldwide. Millions of jobs could be lost, and real wages may fall in 2026 and 2027. Migrant workers face significant risks. Higher energy costs and disrupted supply chains are key factors. The International Labour Organization warns this conflict is a long-lasting shock reshaping labour markets.

The White House released details of President Trump's China visit. Major trade deals were struck, including aircraft purchases and agricultural commitments. Both nations agreed on Iran's nuclear program and shipping lane security. However, the official summary notably excluded discussions about Taiwan, a key point of contention during the visit. This visit aimed for strategic stability and economic cooperation.

Pakistan has deployed 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets and an air defence system to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defence pact, deepening military ties with Riyadh even as Islamabad positions itself as the key mediator in the Iran conflict.

A Sikar-based teacher's vigilance led to the discovery of a leaked NEET-UG 2026 exam paper. After meticulously verifying a circulating PDF against the actual exam, he alerted authorities. This crucial tip-off ultimately prompted the NTA to cancel the examination due to widespread malpractice allegations.

Mumbai police apprehended two individuals at Borivali railway station. They were wanted in connection with a bomb hurling incident in Murshidabad, West Bengal. The accused, Rocky Khan and Shahadat Sarkar, were on a train from Kolkata. They allegedly hurled crude bombs near an ashram. No casualties were reported. The duo admitted to their involvement.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced two new commissions. One will focus on institutional corruption and the other on protecting SC, ST, and minority women and girl children. Adhikari also addressed the Park Circus violence, stating there will be zero tolerance for stone pelting on police.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has asked high court chief justices to hold online hearings on Mondays and Fridays. This move aims to cut down unnecessary expenses amid the West Asia crisis. The Supreme Court itself has adopted similar video conference proceedings.

A Parliamentary panel is set to review the National Testing Agencys (NTA) reforms alongside the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak issue, with top education officials, including the NTA Chairperson, summoned for discussion. The committee will also examine the K Radhakrishnan Committee report, assess updates on the ongoing NEET-UG investigation, and deliberate on broader concerns such as the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on education and student employability.

Despite India's technology ministry warning that prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi are illegal, customers in India continue to trade. A new law banning online money games went into effect May 1, yet these platforms are still accessible, with some users circumventing blocks.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar led a protest demanding the government buy onions at Rs 25 per kg. Farmers are selling produce at distress prices due to falling rates. Pawar stated farmers are not recovering production costs. He also called for compensation for those who sold onions at low rates. The agitation will intensify if demands are not met.

A Gen Z employee was fired for 'attitude' and 'culture fit' despite meeting project deadlines. Weeks later, the company's systems failed due to undocumented backend infrastructure he managed. He was rehired as a consultant, demanding double his previous salary, highlighting the value of skilled, albeit undocumented, contributors.

Word of the Day: Language is more than a tool for communication; it also serves as a form of cultural memory. Words like acersecomic preserve ideas, traditions and identities that modern vocabulary can sometimes overlook. The English language contains thousands of highly specialized terms capable of describing surprisingly precise aspects of human experience.

Kevin Warsh assumes leadership of the U.S. Federal Reserve. This marks a new chapter for the central bank and President Trump. Warsh faces challenges including inflation and interest rate decisions. The Fed's balance sheet and future rate movements are key focus areas.

India's monsoon season is set to begin soon. The India Meteorological Department predicts the southwest monsoon will reach Kerala around May 26. Heavy rainfall with lightning and strong winds are forecast for Kerala and Mahe. This arrival offers much-needed relief from intense summer heat across the country. Farmers eagerly await the rains for crucial crop sowing.

Indian businesses are encouraged to monitor imports and identify opportunities for local manufacturing. This push for self-reliance aims to strengthen domestic industries. India's exports are growing, with ambitious targets set for the coming years. Free trade agreements are being expanded to enhance market access. A Swadeshi trade fair will showcase Indian products and services, promoting 'Made in India' goods.

Torrential rain inundated parts of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland on Monday night. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency, urging people to stay indoors.

A Mumbai flat owner's social media post questions if rental income is truly passive. He shared his struggles with tenant issues and property management, highlighting the stress involved. This has ignited a debate among property owners. Many agree that managing tenants can be a demanding job. The owner suggests financial investments might offer better returns without the hassle.

Two farmers from Doddaballapur Rural were arrested for allegedly attacking an architect and her husband in a road rage incident near Hesaraghatta Main Road. The confrontation began when the architect honked at an MUV blocking her path. The situation escalated when the men allegedly beat her husband and attempted to harm him.

India's cooking gas shortage, driven by the Strait of Hormuz closure, forces refiners to cut alkylate production. This directly impacts California's gasoline supply, as alkylates are crucial for its unique blend, leading to higher prices for motorists already facing a global fuel crisis.

Anitha Radhakrishnan on Vijay government and family: Senior DMK leader Anita Radhakrishnan launched a blistering attack on the new TVK-led government, days after Joseph Vijay officially took charge as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister following prolonged alliance talks, Predicting that the administration would collapse within four to six months, the Tiruchendur MLA also questioned the absence of Vijays wife and children at the swearing-in ceremony, triggering fresh political controversy.

As temperatures rise, the FSSAI warns of common fridge storage mistakes increasing food poisoning risks. Proper separation of raw and cooked foods, maintaining a fridge temperature below 5C, and careful egg storage are crucial. These simple habits prevent bacterial contamination and protect families from illness during summer.

The newly released Episode 7 trailer for Euphoria hints that Rue Bennett may finally stop running from herself. The previews biggest surprise is the return of Ali Muhammed, played by Colman Domingo. Across previous seasons, Ali has remained one of the few people willing to confront Rue honestly while still offering genuine compassion and support.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday arrested Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Deepak Singla in connection with an alleged bank fraud case, officials said.

Excitement is building as pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto VI, or GTA 6, are rumored to start today. This follows a leaked email suggesting early access to pre-orders before the November 19 release. Fans also anticipate a new trailer. Rockstar Games has not confirmed these reports. The game is set in Vice City and features dual protagonists.

Wired earphones are making a surprising return in 2026. Celebrities and everyday users are embracing them for better sound and fewer charging hassles. This trend also taps into Y2K nostalgia. In India, affordability and reliability have always kept wired options popular. USB-C earphones are bridging the gap for newer phones. This simple technology is finding a new audience.

Following the UDF's victory in Kerala, Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi expressed optimism for the state's rue progress and future-led development. Gandhi emphasized that the people's voice will guide the new government, led by V D Satheesan, and that work begins now. Kharge highlighted the commitment to dignity, justice, freedom, inclusion, and amity.

A viral Reddit post claiming that most Indian freshers lose money by accepting the first salary offer without negotiating has triggered a massive online debate. While many agreed that candidates should ask for better pay professionally, others including people involved in hiring argued that negotiation can backfire badly in Indias highly competitive fresher job market.

Anand Mahindra shared a heartwarming video of a grandfather teaching his grandson Maniyaro Raas, a vibrant Gujarati folk dance. The clip, believed to be from the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, resonated deeply online for symbolising the passing down of tradition, rhythm and cultural memory from one generation to the next, offering many viewers a comforting sense of continuity.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang calls a total ban on AI chip exports to China 'ridiculous'. He believes such restrictions would push China to build its own technology, ultimately harming US leadership. Huang argues American companies should compete globally. He suggests China can still advance AI using existing resources and older chips, not just the most advanced ones.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is on a four-day visit to Vietnam and South Korea to bolster strategic defence cooperation, including joint production of military hardware. The trip aims to strengthen defence industrial partnerships, enhance maritime collaboration, and promote peace in the Indo-Pacific region. Discussions will also cover the South China Sea situation and explore new initiatives for bilateral engagements.

Kerala lottery result today: Kerala Lottery Bhagyathara BT-54 results for Monday, 18 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.

Ten people died in a tragic road accident in Lakhimpur Kheri. A truck and van collided head-on on the Lakhimpur-Bahraich Highway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex-gratia payments for the deceased and injured. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also condoled the loss and ordered prompt assistance for victims.

A new employee feels scapegoated at work due to a manager providing incomplete instructions and blaming newer hires for problems. The situation is worsened by perceived favoritism towards a senior employee and communication issues with older freelancers. Reddit users advise documenting everything and actively seeking new employment.

A resurfaced video shows Andrew Tate controversially praising Indian men for resilience and family structures while criticizing Western masculinity. He contrasted this with perceived failures of young white men, sparking debate over his remarks, which critics deem filled with stereotypes and vulgarity, despite his framing as a defense against online mockery.

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and other footballers and sports celebrities have also been in trouble with Spanish tax authorities.

Maharashtra saw over 11.14 lakh households complete their Census 2027 self-enumeration online. The government provided a web portal for this convenience. Pune district led with the highest participation. Households that completed online enumeration must share their SE ID with enumerators. Field enumeration will continue for all households from May 16 to June 14.

China will purchase over $17 billion in US farm goods yearly for three years. This deal boosts agricultural trade significantly. Purchases will include wheat, corn, meat, cotton, and timber. Rival suppliers like Brazil and Australia may see reduced exports. This agreement aims to expand trade between the two nations.