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The Economic Times

National / The Economic Times

Whats happening with gold and silver prices? Why gold and silver prices are crashing despite USIran war and stock market turbulence - gold now below $4,700 and silver falling under $70

Gold and silver prices are crashing despite the USIran war, with gold below $4,700 and silver under $70. Investors expected a safe-haven rally, but rising inflation, a stronger U.S. dollar, and fading rate cut hopes are pushing metals lower. Gold dropped 4.18% to $4,691.70, while silver plunged 8.91% to $70.68, hitting one-month lows. The weakness wasnt limited to bullion, as platinum (PL00) slipped to $1,938.20 (-5.76%), and copper (HG00) also edged lower to $5.44 (-2.78%).

19 Mar 2026 4:59 pm
Trump faces his most difficult Iran war decision: Will he deploy US troops to seize uranium?

President Trump faces a critical decision regarding Iran's enriched uranium. The United States has conducted military actions against Iran's nuclear program. Securing nearly 1000 pounds of enriched uranium is a complex challenge. Experts suggest a significant troop deployment may be necessary. This move carries considerable risk for the President. Lawmakers express concerns about achieving objectives without a physical presence.

19 Mar 2026 4:52 pm
Like Rohit and Virat, Sanju can't be replaced: Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag

Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag stated Sanju Samson's departure cannot be filled. Parag, now captain, emphasized better planning and finishing close games for the upcoming season. He thanked the franchise for their support. Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara backed Parag, citing his maturity and suitability for leadership after a thorough selection process.

19 Mar 2026 4:51 pm
CBSE opens LOC window for Class 10 second exams 2026; Check dates, eligibility, and key details

The Central Board of Secondary Education has announced the schedule for submitting the List of Candidates for the Class 10 second board examinations in 2026. This new system, part of the National Education Policy 2020, allows students to reappear in up to three subjects. The aim is to reduce exam stress and offer flexibility for score improvement.

19 Mar 2026 4:50 pm
You dont need daily gym hours! New study says just 2 sessions a week can keep you fit & fab

You do not need a gym to get fit. Just two basic strength training sessions weekly can boost your health. Simple exercises like squats and push-ups improve strength and balance. This helps with daily tasks and prevents falls. Consistency is key, not exhausting workouts. Even short routines make a difference for long-term health.

19 Mar 2026 4:48 pm
5,950 cab charge for a 285 trip? Bengaluru user flags 'new scam by cab drivers'

Bangalore Ola Driver Scam: A Bengaluru commuter reported a cab driver attempted to charge 5,950 for a 285 Ola ride, demanding payment via a personal device. The situation escalated with aggressive behavior and a language barrier, only defusing when the passenger's landlord intervened. The driver fled before reaching the police station.

19 Mar 2026 4:44 pm
Democratic Social Justice Party extends unconditional support to NDA for Kerala Assembly polls

The Democratic Social Justice Party has declared its full backing for the NDA in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. Party leaders stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government implemented the 10 percent EWS reservation for forward communities. They accused state governments of minority appeasement, neglecting the poor among forward communities.

19 Mar 2026 4:43 pm
PM Narendra Modi speaks to global leaders, pushes for de-escalation in West Asia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with leaders from Oman, Malaysia, and France. Discussions focused on the escalating tensions in West Asia. Leaders agreed on the need for diplomacy and dialogue to restore peace. India reiterated its stance against violations of sovereignty.

19 Mar 2026 4:43 pm
Why Mark Zuckerberg is shutting down Meta's Horizon World five years after calling it next big thing and $80 billion investment

Meta is ending its Horizon Worlds virtual reality platform for Quest headsets. After a massive investment of $80 billion, the company is removing the VR app by June 2026. This move follows a significant shift in focus towards artificial intelligence. Horizon Worlds will continue as a mobile-only app. This marks the end of an era for Meta's metaverse ambitions.

19 Mar 2026 4:29 pm
We want to be the trust layer of housing: How trust, data, and finance are driving the next era of proptech in Dubai

A new layer of real estate technology is taking shape in the city, backed by execution, investor interest, and stronger institutional access

19 Mar 2026 4:21 pm
Airbus seeks Pratt & Whitney damages over engine delays, sources say

Airbus is escalating a dispute with engine maker Pratt & Whitney. The aircraft manufacturer is seeking damages over delayed engine shipments. This is impacting Airbus's ability to meet production targets. Scarce engine supplies are grounding jets and straining airlines.

19 Mar 2026 3:53 pm
73 Rajya Sabha MPs declare criminal cases; 31 billionaires: Report

A new report reveals a significant number of Rajya Sabha MPs face criminal charges. Over 30% have declared cases, with some facing serious accusations. The report also highlights wealth disparities, showing 14% of MPs are billionaires. Average assets for a Rajya Sabha member are substantial, with some individuals possessing vast fortunes.

19 Mar 2026 3:47 pm
Fortnite Server Status: When will Fortnite servers be back up? Chapter 7 Season 2 downtime explained

For now, the Fortnite down phase remains a waiting game. While downtime can be frustrating, it is an essential part of maintaining and evolving a live-service game of this scale.

19 Mar 2026 3:05 pm
Poll battle: EC revokes deputation of Kolkata Police Commissioners as Central Observers

The Election Commission of India has withdrawn two police commissioners from observer duties in Tamil Nadu. Muralidhar Sharma of Bidhannagar and Waqar Raja of Siliguri will no longer serve as central observers. This comes amid a series of bureaucratic and police reshuffles announced by the ECI for the upcoming assembly polls in West Bengal.

19 Mar 2026 3:03 pm
Bihar Rajya Sabha loss triggers blame game in Mahagathbandhan

A political storm is brewing in Bihar's Mahagathbandhan. Four opposition MLAs missed crucial Rajya Sabha voting, handing a win to the ruling NDA. The Congress has issued notices to its absent members. Disagreements over candidate choice and party respect are cited. Other alliance partners are urging unity and action against such lapses.

19 Mar 2026 2:58 pm
Delhi EV policy explained: Up to Rs 1 Lakh incentive, 100% exemption on road tax till 2030 to boost clean mobility

Delhi Electric Vehicle policy explained: The Delhi government is set to introduce a new policy aimed at accelerating electric vehicle adoption by offering financial incentives for scrapping old vehicles. Under the scheme, individuals who scrap BS-IV or older Delhi-registered vehicles can avail the benefits of up to 1 lakh when purchasing new EVs, along with exemptions on road tax and registration fees until 2030.

19 Mar 2026 2:57 pm
Sarke Chunar singer responds to the vulgar lyrics controversy, says a new song will be released soon

Sarke Chunar song singer Mangli has publicly apologized and removed the song 'Sarke Chunar' from all platforms following backlash over its explicit Hindi lyrics. The controversy reached Parliament, prompting the government to confirm a ban. The song's removal and a promise of a revised version aim to address public sentiment, though the film it's from remains on track for release.

19 Mar 2026 2:56 pm
Iran boycotting US, not World Cup: Federation chief

Iran's football team plans to participate in the World Cup but will boycott the United States. Talks are underway with FIFA to relocate matches from the US. Mexico has offered to host Iran's games. US President Donald Trump raised safety concerns for Iranian players. Iran's participation was in doubt due to the Middle East conflict.

19 Mar 2026 2:53 pm
Love Insurance Kompany locked for April release: Check release date for Vignesh Shivan's LIK starring Pradeep Ranganathan & Krithi Shetty

LIK release date: Seven Screen Studio has officially announced the theatrical release date for the upcoming Tamil feature film Love Insurance Kompany (LIK). Directed by Vignesh Shivan and starring Pradeep Ranganathan alongside Krithi Shetty, the film is scheduled to premiere on April 3, 2026, coinciding with the Good Friday holiday.

19 Mar 2026 2:52 pm
Kerala bird flu scare: Nearly 6,000 birds to be culled from March 21. Authorities on high alert

Kerala bird flu scare: Bird flu (H5N1) has been confirmed in Alappuzha's Muhamma grama panchayat, prompting authorities to cull over 5,000 birds. Rapid response teams are implementing containment measures within a one-kilometre radius of the epicentre. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any unusual bird deaths.

19 Mar 2026 2:51 pm
Dinesh Karthik & Dipika Pallikal welcome third child. Couple names daughter 'Raaha', heres the beautiful meaning behind it

Cricketer Dinesh Karthik and squash star Dipika Pallikal have welcomed their baby girl, Raaha Pallikal Karthik. The couple shared the joyous news on social media, with their sons Kabir and Zian reportedly thrilled to have a baby sister. This marks a new chapter for the family.

19 Mar 2026 2:49 pm
India's oilmeal export to China jumps 20-fold to 7.79 lakh tons in 11 months of FY26: SEA

India's oilmeal exports to China saw a massive jump this fiscal year. Competitive prices and trade policies favored Indian products. However, this advantage is now challenged. Meanwhile, overall oilmeal exports have declined. Geopolitical conflicts are disrupting shipments to the Middle East and Europe, increasing transit times and costs. This situation threatens India's export competitiveness in key markets.

19 Mar 2026 2:38 pm
JD(U) MLA granted Anant Kumar Singh granted bail in Dularchand Yadav murder case

Patna High Court granted bail to Janata Dal (United) MLA Anant Singh. He was arrested in connection with the murder of Jan Suraaj supporter Dularchand Yadav. Singh had won the Mokama assembly seat while in custody. The court's decision comes after the Bihar Assembly election last year. Dularchand Yadav was killed during a violent clash in Mokama.

19 Mar 2026 2:36 pm
RBI working to provide avenues to Russian trade counterparts for INR use

The Reserve Bank of India is creating new ways for Russian businesses to use their accumulated Indian rupees. These rupees can now be used to pay for imports into India or for making investments. This move aims to boost trade in local currencies between India and Russia. Increased transactions will help the market for INR-Rouble trade to grow.

19 Mar 2026 2:36 pm
Rajasthan RBSE 10th Result 2026 date and time: Check official websites, steps to download scorecard and other key details

The Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education will announce Class 10 results on March 20, 2026. Over 10 lakh students appeared for the exams held in February. Students can check their scores on official websites. Those who need to improve can appear for compartment exams in August 2026. This announcement comes earlier than previous years.

19 Mar 2026 2:34 pm
Overnight storm in Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, kills at least 15 people and injures several

Karachi experienced a severe storm overnight. Heavy rains and strong winds caused widespread damage. Walls and roofs collapsed, leading to at least 15 fatalities. Several people were injured. The storm uprooted trees and disrupted traffic. Authorities advised residents to stay indoors. More rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Karachi and other parts of Sindh province.

19 Mar 2026 2:33 pm
No hitch in seat-sharing talks, says Tamil Nadu BJP chief as Palaniswami rushes to Delhi

Seat-sharing talks between the BJP and AIADMK for the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls are proceeding smoothly. BJP Tamil Nadu chief Nainar Nagenthran confirmed no issues are affecting the discussions. The number of constituencies will be finalized soon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Kanyakumari and Coimbatore for campaigning. Several national leaders will also campaign in Tamil Nadu.

19 Mar 2026 2:30 pm
Rajnath Singh cites global conflicts to urge self-reliance in drone manufacturing

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India's need for a strong drone manufacturing ecosystem. He highlighted the crucial role of drones and counter-drone technologies in modern warfare, drawing lessons from ongoing global conflicts. Singh stressed the importance of complete self-reliance, from components like software and engines to the final product, for India's defence preparedness and strategic autonomy.

19 Mar 2026 2:25 pm
US plan to send thousands of troops to Iran: Here's what happened when Iran last fought a ground invasion 30 years ago

As the Middle East conflict enters its 20th day, Iran shows no signs of backing down amid US pressure. Reports suggest President Trump plans to send troops to clear the Strait of Hormuz blockade, potentially reigniting global energy supplies. This move comes as historical invasions of Iran, like the Iran-Iraq War, highlight significant challenges for the US.

19 Mar 2026 2:25 pm
Iran war leaves deep, costly scar on Mideast energy

The Iran war has disrupted regional stability and energy markets, with Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz and targeting infrastructure. This has led to higher oil prices and underscored global economic vulnerability to Middle East disruptions. The conflict is expected to reshape trade flows and investment for years.

19 Mar 2026 2:17 pm
Pentagon seeks $200 billion war fund as Iran conflict strains US finances; Congress showdown likely

The Pentagon has requested over $200 billion from the White House. This funding aims to rapidly replenish critical weapons stockpiles. US and Israeli forces have struck thousands of targets recently. The proposal faces significant resistance in Congress. Budget pressures and political divisions add to the challenge. Expanding weapons production will take time.

19 Mar 2026 2:13 pm
Will the Iran conflict end Meloni's long Italian honeymoon?

US-Israel Iran War: Italy's economy faces new challenges. Recent strikes in Iran have impacted oil and gas prices. This affects Italian businesses and families. Higher borrowing costs and rising energy bills are concerns. The manufacturing and agriculture sectors are also feeling the strain. Tourism from the Middle East is disrupted. These issues could affect Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's popularity.

19 Mar 2026 1:55 pm
IPL 2026: Sanju Samson was Rajasthan Royal's face, his loss massive: Faf du Plessis

Sanju Samson's exit from Rajasthan Royals marks a major shift. Former captain Faf du Plessis highlights Samson's iconic status. Yashasvi Jaiswal now faces increased responsibility. Lakshmipathy Balaji expresses surprise at Riyan Parag's captaincy appointment. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi aims for consistency in his second season. Kumar Sangakkara's guidance will be key for the team.

19 Mar 2026 1:54 pm
Delhi HC nudges EC on K Kavithas Telangana Praja Jagruti plea

The Delhi High Court has asked the Election Commission of India to consider K Kavitha's plea to register her political party, Telangana Praja Jagruti. Kavitha's application deficiencies have been addressed. The court ordered the ECI to consider the application. Kavitha's lawyer requested a four-week timeline, citing upcoming local body elections in Telangana.

19 Mar 2026 1:50 pm
'Sarke Chunar' row: NCW issues summons to Nora Fatehi, Sanjay Dutt

The National Commission for Women has summoned Nora Fatehi, Sanjay Dutt, and others over obscenity allegations in the song 'Sarke Chunar'. The song's content is deemed sexually suggestive and violative of laws. Lyricist Raqueeb Alam and producers have also been summoned to appear on March 24.

19 Mar 2026 1:49 pm
Iran War: India faces 'triple threat' amid West Asia crisis

Iran War: India faces a potential riple threat from a West Asian crisis, with rising energy costs, declining remittances, and reverse labour migration posing risks to the domestic economy. A report highlights the country's deep structural linkages to the Gulf, impacting over eight million Indian workers and significant financial flows.

19 Mar 2026 1:47 pm
Fuel from air and water? China start-up, co-founded by ex Tesla VP, claims big breakthrough amid oil crisis

At a time when the world is grappling with oil crisis due to the Middle East conflict, a Chinese startup Carbonology has announced a big breakthrough and claimed that it can make fuel from air and water. The company co-founded by former Tesla Vice President has claimed to develop a method to capture carbon dioxide from the air and convert it into petrol, diesel, jet fuel, and other products. The process uses solar and wind energy, making it a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

19 Mar 2026 1:45 pm
Beijing tells US to stop hyping 'China threat theory'

China urged the United States on Thursday to stop hyping the theory that China is a threat, after a US intelligence report said Beijing does not have plans to invade the self-ruled island next year. The US should... speak and act cautiously on the Taiwan issue, should correct their understanding of China, and stop hyping up the China threat theory, Beijing's foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a press conference, when asked about the report. pfc-dhw/jm

19 Mar 2026 1:35 pm
Congress says higher education Bill violative of federal structure, raises 7 'serious concerns'

The Congress party has raised significant objections to the proposed Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill. They claim the bill infringes upon the federal structure of India's Constitution. Key concerns include a lack of state government consultation, constitutional overreach, and the bureaucratization of higher education. The party argues the bill centralizes power, moving away from academic control.

19 Mar 2026 1:30 pm
US-Israel-Iran war: Fire erupts at two Kuwaiti refineries after drone strikes

Kuwait experienced two major fires at its oil facilities on Thursday. Drone attacks targeted the Mina Abdullah and Mina Al-Ahmadi refineries. Emergency crews worked to control the blazes. The incidents highlight growing drone threats to oil infrastructure in the Gulf region. Kuwait, a significant oil producer, relies on these refineries for its energy sector.

19 Mar 2026 1:23 pm
KVS Admission 2026-27: Check start and last date, online process, age criteria, documents needed for Class 1 and Balvatika

Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan announces admission guidelines for the 2026-27 academic year. Online registrations for Class I and Balvatika-1 begin March 20, 2026, closing April 2. Offline admissions for other classes and Balvatika-2 and 3 will follow. Age criteria are set for March 31, 2026. Parents can apply online via the KVS portal. Document verification is crucial.

19 Mar 2026 1:18 pm
Navratri, Eid Special trains list: Check full schedule of trains announced by Indian Railways

Indian Railways is running special trains to manage the festive travel rush for Chaitra Navratri and Eid. This initiative aims to ease passenger pressure and provide more travel options. Special services will connect Mumbai and Nagpur, and Pune and Nagpur. These trains will stop at key stations across Maharashtra.

19 Mar 2026 1:17 pm
Kerala lottery Karunya Plus KN-615 results today (19 March 2026): 1 crore winner number & full list

Karunya Plus KN-615 Lottery Result (19/03/2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya Plus KN-615 weekly lottery today, March 19, 2026. The event will be held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring a grand first prize of 1 crore.

19 Mar 2026 1:17 pm
'Put down books, fall in love': Chinese university urges students to romance during spring holiday amid birth rate crisis

A Sichuan aviation college urges students to see the flowers and enjoy romance during April 1-6 spring break, aligning with China's push for new school holidays, travel, and leisure to counter declining births and spur consumption. The move follows record-low 2025 birth rates and NDRC guidelines for child-friendly cities.

19 Mar 2026 12:53 pm
Thailand re-elects Anutin Charnvirakul as Prime Minister in parliamentary vote

Anutin Charnvirakul has been elected Thailand's prime minister by the new parliament. His party secured a significant victory in the recent elections. The government faces challenges including economic slowdown and border tensions with Cambodia. Anutin previously championed cannabis decriminalization. The new administration will navigate global economic turmoil and domestic issues.

19 Mar 2026 12:45 pm
Free trade between India and Russia is being worked upon, official says

India and Russia are boosting economic and financial ties. Sergey Glazyev highlighted the importance of this partnership. They are working on free trade and common financial markets. Initiatives like BRICScoin aim to reduce currency capital issues. This collaboration seeks to counter US dominance in global capital markets.

19 Mar 2026 12:40 pm