The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
Harsimrat Kaur Badal lauded Inspector Santosh Vaijnath Kendre for his bravery. The inspector acted as a human shield during the attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who has Z+ security, was injured in the kirpan attack. The incident occurred inside a gurdwara on the outskirts of Nanded town. The Badal family expressed deep gratitude to the inspector and hospital staff.
The Supreme Court has ended criminal defamation proceedings against Rahul Gandhi. This case stemmed from his remarks about V D Savarkar made during a London speech. Satyaki Savarkar, the grandnephew, had filed the complaint alleging defamatory statements. The trial court had previously issued summons to the Congress leader. The Supreme Court's decision quashes these proceedings and the issued summons.
Zee Entertainment's shares experienced a surge following the Securities Appellate Tribunal's grant of interim relief. The tribunal has put a hold on SEBI's order, permitting promoters to issue preferential warrants. Additionally, ZEEL is allowed to utilize mutual fund units for dividend distribution. However, this relief comes with the condition of paying the penalty that SEBI has imposed, which the company disputes based on claims over property document titles.
Manorama Industries shares surged after Q1FY27 net profit jumped 67.6% YoY to
North Korea criticizes Japan's military expansion and its alliances with the United States and South Korea. This rhetoric coincides with an unusual silence regarding Pyongyang's recent missile launches. Analysts suggest North Korea aims to frame Northeast Asia as a contest between rival blocs. The country seeks stronger backing from China and Russia to escape diplomatic isolation.
Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal underwent surgery after a kirpan attack. Doctors repaired a tendon injury and nerve damage during the procedure. He is now stable and expected to be discharged from the hospital today. Badal will likely be flown back to Punjab later this afternoon. Police are investigating the motive behind the attack by the accused volunteer.
The Bar Council of India chairman made a controversial decision to bar NALSAR law graduates from enrollment after a student-led protest against an invitation to the Chief Justice of India. After reconsideration, the chairman retracted this order, recognizing that most students were not at fault, attributing blame to certain teachers. The council is now awaiting the inquiry report from NALSAR to proceed further.
Nigel Farage secured his parliamentary seat in the Clacton by-election. A comedian's significant vote share highlighted challenges for Farage's party. This victory occurs as Reform UK's poll numbers show signs of slowing. Ongoing investigations into Farage's financial declarations continue to cast a shadow. The result raises questions about Reform UK's national momentum.
The Supreme Court has stayed a Madras High Court order. This order had previously quashed government jobs for stampede victims' relatives. The High Court had cited concerns about opening floodgates for similar demands. Justices Pardiwala and Chandran issued notices to the Tamil Nadu chief secretary. The bench questioned the petitioner's right to challenge the government's policy.
Sugar stocks rallied for a second session on Friday as domestic sugar prices climbed 8-10% over the past month to a seven-year high. Rising global prices, supply concerns in Brazil and Thailand, higher ethanol demand and expectations of tighter Indian exports have strengthened the outlook for sugar producers.
Praj Industries shares surged 6.5% after Q1FY27 net profit more than doubled year-on-year to Rs 12 crore, while revenue rose 12% to Rs 716 crore. The company reported Rs 1,000 crore in order intake and ended the quarter with an order backlog of Rs 4,589 crore, providing strong execution visibility.
Aluminum pans can become blackened due to heat and food residue. Proper cleaning techniques can restore their original luster and appearance. Baking soda and salt are effective natural cleaning agents for stubborn stains. Rinsing and thoroughly drying pans prevents future discoloration and damage. Following a few easy steps can easily ensure that your aluminum cookware remains in good condition.
Three Russian men robbed a Canadian Pacific train in Alberta during 1920. The robbers escaped with little money and valuables, triggering a manhunt. Two robbers and two police officers died in a shootout five days later. The third fugitive was eventually captured years later in Montana. A stolen pocket watch helped authorities track down the final robber.
WATCH: Class 12 student breaks down before CM Dhami over missed Taekwondo tournament abroad
Kotak Mahindra Bank has been ordered to pay Rs 1.5 lakh in compensation after the Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission found it raised a demand of Rs 19,788 against a customer who had already cleared all 12 EMIs totalling nearly Rs 45,000 for a Samsung TV purchase, and then threatened to damage his CIBIL score when he refused to pay.
Police busted a counterfeit currency unit in Nashik, arresting five alleged gang members. Specialized chemicals were allegedly used to manufacture fake Rs 500 notes. Authorities seized genuine currency and printing equipment valued at Rs 12.2 lakh. The interstate group included suspects from Telangana and local Nashik residents. Investigations are ongoing into the gang's distribution network and operations.
Sammaan Capital reported a 27% YoY decline in consolidated profit to Rs 243 crore in Q1FY27, while revenue from operations also fell. The company reported Rs 56,239 crore in AUM and Rs 3,875 crore in disbursements, with plans to accelerate growth and reduce funding costs.
Kuwait's oil exports have plummeted due to the ongoing war and Strait of Hormuz closure. The nation faces its biggest crisis since the 1990 invasion, impacting its economy significantly. Kuwait Petroleum Corporation declared force majeure after drone strikes hit its headquarters. The country's economy contracted by 4.6 percent in the first quarter of 2026. Restoring oil production hinges on the safe reopening of the vital shipping lane.
Galaxy Surfactants shares hit a 20% upper circuit after the company reported a 109% year-on-year jump in Q1FY27 net profit to Rs 165.9 crore. Revenue rose 38.5%, while EBITDA surged 87% to a record Rs 252.5 crore, supported by stronger volumes, product mix and speciality care demand.
Scientists developed an acoustic anti-drone system to disable unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles. This technology uses sound waves to disrupt drone balance sensors, causing instability and potential falls. The system targets internal sensors, making it effective against automated drones without remote control signals. India faces a growing threat from drones used for smuggling and warfare operations. This acoustic system offers a complementary layer to existing counter-drone technologies.
India's Census 2027 will ask 40 questions during its population enumeration phase. Respondents will provide details on their Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe status. This census marks the first comprehensive caste enumeration since 1931. The exercise will also be India's first fully digital census.
India's batters face a significant spin challenge in the upcoming Galle Test series. Head coach Gautam Gambhir's position relies heavily on the team's performance in this crucial series. Sri Lanka's spinners have historically made Galle a difficult venue for visiting teams. Indian bowlers must also find their rhythm on the Lankan pitches to secure success. This series presents an opportunity for the Indian squad to reignite their Test cricket journey.
Manipur observed Patriots' Day, honoring heroes of the 1891 Anglo-Manipur War. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla urged preserving history and strengthening community unity. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also paid homage to fallen patriots. The day celebrated sacrifices and inspired future generations toward progress. Police medals for gallantry and devotion to duty were also announced.
Jubilant FoodWorks shares rose to Rs 521 after Q1 FY27 revenue increased 14% year-on-year to Rs 2,570 crore, while EBITDA grew 10% to Rs 360 crore. Dominos India posted 2.5% LFL growth, while Popeyes delivered 97% revenue growth. Bernstein and Motilal Oswal retained positive ratings, citing Popeyes momentum and prospects for improved margins and growth.
SpaceX shares have surged significantly after a major lockup expiration. Early investors were permitted to sell millions of shares on August sixth. The stock price has climbed thirty-five percent in just five trading sessions. This rise has added approximately five hundred billion dollars in market capitalisation. Investors now feel optimistic about future stock lockup expirations.
In a notable rise, Welspun Living shares gained traction following the announcement of solid Q1FY27 earnings, showcasing an eighty-five percent increase in profit year-on-year and a twenty-four percent boost in revenue. Financial experts, including those from Motilal Oswal and JM Financial, have reiterated buy recommendations, forecasting ongoing revenue and margin improvements. Significant contributions are expected from the home textiles division and the emerging US pillow segment.
Viktor Frankl's quote encourages living as if making a second attempt. This perspective fosters greater consciousness of current decisions and their consequences. It offers a constructive way to learn from past actions and improve future outcomes. Frankl's ideas emphasize meaning and responsibility even in difficult circumstances. His philosophy remains relevant for navigating modern life's rapid pace.
Sonam Wangchuk has called for a peaceful revolution in Indias political leadership and urged citizens to suggest selfless, fearless men and women of character and substance for his proposed second Independence movement.
Quote of the day by Hannah Arendt: Hannah Arendt, renowned for her significant contributions to 20th-century philosophy, dissected the 'banality of evil', suggesting that ordinary individuals can engage in heinous acts devoid of malicious intent. Her analysis traversed totalitarian regimes, urging the necessity of critical thought and ethical decision-making. Arendts insights inspire a continuous dialogue about questioning authority and recognizing individual accountability, cementing her legacy
Two Abu Dhabi National Oil Company vessels faced attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates accused Iran of carrying out these hostile attacks. This incident marks the second such attack on ADNOC vessels within a week. Iran's Revolutionary Guards were accused of piracy and using the strait for pressure. The attacks have disrupted shipping and raised global energy security concerns.
In a devastating weather event, heavy rains in eastern Japan have claimed four lives, while one person is reported unresponsive. The torrential rain has unleashed significant flooding, triggering high-level emergency alerts. Flooded roads have inundated neighborhoods, necessitating urgent safety measures and evacuation orders for countless residents. Thousands are also grappling with power outages, compounding the challenges posed by this severe weather adversity.
Karnataka's Cabinet has approved a new Bill to regulate government property use. This legislation aims to safeguard public assets and prevent their misuse. The Bill will establish clear guidelines and procedures for property usage. It also includes provisions for penalties in case of damage. The government plans to table this Bill for legislative passage soon.
Delhi NCR weather today, August 12: On Friday, August 14, Delhi and its surrounding regions are forecasted to have overcast skies. Temperatures will hover in the high 20s and low 30s Celsius range. Areas like Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad are likely to experience rainfall or thundershowers, with Gurugram reaching the highest temperature of 33 degrees Celsius. Generally, residents in Delhi and nearby cities should expect cloudy weather with intermittent light rain.
Honasa Consumers shares rose after Q1FY27 PAT surged 116.5% YoY to a record 90 crore, while revenue grew 27% to 756 crore and EBITDA jumped 141% to 110 crore.
Bill Bryson quote of the Day: Bill Bryson captures an inspiring truth about our existence, urging us to marvel at the unlikelihood of life itself. He suggests that our modern-day busyness often distracts from the extraordinary nature of simply being alive. Bryson's insights, rooted in his personal journey, remind us to cherish the present and recognize the beauty surrounding us in every moment.
Indian rice export prices have reached their highest level in nearly a year. Vietnam's rice prices also increased for a third consecutive week. Bangladesh plans to import one hundred thousand tons of parboiled rice from Vietnam. Malaysia and the Philippines have increased their rice imports due to El Nino concerns.
Multiple brokerages have begun analyzing selected Indian stocks, anticipating considerable growth in the future. Jefferies has given Kalyan Jewellers a Buy rating with a specific target price. Similarly, Systematix Institutional Equities has rated Vedanta Aluminium as a Buy, while ICICI Securities placed Add ratings on Canara Bank and Bank of Baroda. Nuvama has set a target price for KPR Mill that suggests significant upside potential.
Goldman Sachs is negotiating with investors for Nvidia's massive AI financing initiative. U.S. insurers and money managers will likely form the core investor base. This plan aims to raise over $500 billion for AI infrastructure development. Nvidia's CEO approached Goldman Sachs with this innovative financing idea. The structure aims to create an asset-backed market for AI compute.
In the first quarter of FY27, LG Electronics India showcased impressive profit growth alongside significant operational revenue increases from April to June. The surge stemmed from robust demand for premium products across various categories. Analysts remain optimistic, highlighting the company's solid earnings potential and market stance, bolstered by strategic investments focused on enhancing manufacturing and export capacities.
Bank of Baroda has successfully accepted bids totaling seven hundred million dollars for its debt offering, achieving narrower spreads than anticipated for its bonds. This marks the bank's first foray into the dollar bond market in seven years. Supported by a central bank facility, Indian banks are borrowing funds at more favorable rates, with proceeds from this sale designated for diverse financial requirements while carrying a BBB rating.
Tata Motors Q1 FY27 net profit plunged 80% YoY to 775 crore due to supply disruptions, Middle East tensions and Jaguars wind-down, while revenue rose 9% to 95,799 crore and EBITDA margin narrowed to 7.4%.
According to mutual fund managers, investors should invest a maximum of 20% in value funds. They also should remember that the market may not always pay a premium for value stocks.
Indian stock markets opened lower on Friday, with Sensex falling over 300 points and Nifty declining 68 points, remaining range bound despite stable oil prices near $87 a barrel. Metal and auto stocks led losses, while broader markets stayed muted. Market breadth remained positive, with advances outnumbering declines on NSE.
A viral video showing boiled eggs being left beside patients at Chennais Government Stanley Hospital has sparked questions over patient care, even as the Tamil Nadu government defended the worker and cited an alleged extortion attempt.
Fitch has affirmed the United States sovereign credit rating at AA+ with a stable outlook, citing its large economy, high per-capita income and the dollars reserve-currency status. The agency expects US growth to slow to 1.9% in 2026-27, while inflation, weakening job creation and elevated fiscal deficits remain concerns.

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