The Economic Times

Allbirds stock price surged after Allbirds announced plans to sell its footwear brand assets and pivot toward AI compute infrastructure. The company revealed a $50 million convertible financing facility, a proposed special dividend for shareholders, and a plan to rename the business NewBird AI. Investors reacted to the AI strategy, GPU-as-a-Service vision, shareholder vote timeline, and long-term plan to build AI cloud solutions and expand compute capacity services.

The Russian proverb after a storm comes calm means bad times do not last forever. It teaches that struggles are followed by peace and happiness. The saying comes from sailors who saw calm weather after storms. It is used in daily life to give hope, encourage patience, and remind people that better days will come after difficult situations.

The findings, from researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, provide a new perspective on how modern media consumption influences cognition and how it may be readily improved.

India and Germany have agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense, green hydrogen, renewable energy, and critical technologies amidst global geopolitical challenges. Discussions during the Foreign Office Consultations in Berlin covered bilateral relations, regional conflicts like West Asia and Ukraine, and future collaboration avenues.

Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo highlights three key signs employees should watch for regarding potential job loss. These include work becoming sidelined, a lack of manager support, and shrinking teams without replacements. Warikoo also advises on five proactive steps to safeguard careers. These involve building a financial buffer, documenting achievements, strengthening professional networks, staying visible at work, and tracking company direction.

Vaishakha Amavasya, a sacred Hindu day dedicated to honouring ancestors, will be observed on April 17, 2026. Devotees will perform rituals like offering prayers to the Peepal tree and engaging in charity for the salvation of forefathers. The day is considered powerful for appeasing ancestors and reducing karmic debts.

Global finance ministers warn the Middle East conflict will continue to impact growth and inflation. Even a lasting peace will not immediately erase these effects. Renewed fighting or disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz pose serious risks. Ministers pledge fiscally responsible domestic responses and urge all nations to avoid protectionist trade barriers.

West Asia War: Iran's military threatened on Wednesday to shut down Red Sea trade unless the United States lifted its naval blockade on Tehran's ports, saying the ceasefire was at risk. But the head of Iran's military central command centre warned a US failure to lift the blockade would constitute a prelude to violating the two-week ceasefire.

India has achieved a historic milestone. The Centre has officially declared that no districts in the country are affected by Naxal violence. This declaration follows extensive operations and a high-level security review. The government's National Policy and Action Plan has led to this significant achievement after more than five decades of Left Wing Extremism.

Punjab's government has withdrawn Z-plus security for AAP MP Raghav Chadha. This follows a recent dispute within the party and his removal as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha. Chadha stated he was silenced, not defeated. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann suggested Chadha was compromised for not following the party whip.

Snap stock price moved higher after the company announced layoffs affecting about 16% of staff and more than 300 open roles. Snap Inc said artificial intelligence will reduce repetitive work and support smaller teams. The company expects cost savings of more than $500 million by the second half of 2026. Investors reacted to the plan as the company aims to improve profitability and compete with larger tech firms.

Global finances face new pressure from the Middle East conflict. Rising energy prices and interest rates strain economies. The IMF advises against fuel subsidies, favoring direct cash aid. Countries must manage higher energy costs to reduce consumption. Global government debt is projected to reach 100% of GDP by 2029, the highest since World War Two.

A Bengaluru tech professional sparked debate by comparing a 50 lakh Indian salary to a $100,000 US salary, arguing the former doesn't equate to a comparable lifestyle. The user claimed high taxes in India fund basic services that residents must pay for separately, unlike in the US. This ignited discussions on cost of living, taxation, and quality of life trade-offs.

US mortgage applications saw a small rise after several weeks of decline. This happened because loan interest rates became lower, helping more people refinance their homes. However, buying homes is still slow as many people feel unsure about the economy. The housing market is showing mixed signs, with some improvement but still weak demand from new buyers.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stands firm against US President Donald Trump's threats regarding a trade deal. Starmer reiterates the UK's stance on not joining US strikes on Iran. Meanwhile, King Charles III's upcoming State Visit to the US is set to proceed, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and commemorate historical milestones.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly backed safe and unimpeded maritime shipping. He stated that attacks on merchant vessels are unacceptable. This comes as India engages diplomatically on the West Asia conflict. The minister also highlighted India's commitment to energy market supply chain resilience. India is closely monitoring developments in the region.

Snapchat, Meta, Nike, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley employees are under the job cuts threat. AI-driven automation is exposing multiple sectors across the U.S.

Southern Chief Ministers Siddaramaiah, Pinarayi Vijayan, and Revanth Reddy are uniting against the Centre's proposed delimitation exercise, fearing it will harm their states' political representation. They argue for a transparent, consultative process, warning that population control success could be penalized. The leaders also called for women's reservation to be implemented separately.

President Donald Trump renewed pressure Wednesday on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, with the US leader threatening to fire the central bank chief if he stays beyond his mandate. But his confirmation faces challenges with some lawmakers criticizing the DOJ probe as political pressure on the central bank.

The Central Information Commission has urged GST authorities to implement a system for tracking tax evasion complaints. Currently, complainants lack a way to know the progress of their petitions. This opacity breeds suspicion of cases being closed without proper review. The Commission suggests an online facility to view complaint status.

Australia will significantly boost its defense spending to three percent of its gross domestic product by 2033. This move responds to the most challenging global security environment since World War Two. The government plans substantial investment over the next decade to enhance defense capabilities and self-reliance. This strategic shift aims to address rising geopolitical tensions and ensure national security.

A retired DRDO scientist, Pradeep Kurulkar, has been denied bail by the Bombay High Court. He was arrested last year on charges of sharing sensitive defense information with a woman linked to Pakistani intelligence. The court noted that vital information was passed during intimate chats. Kurulkar's arrest followed a complaint from the defense research establishment.

The NEET UG 2026 admit card is expected soon from NTA for the May 3 exam. Candidates have already received advance city intimation slips to aid travel plans. The exam, featuring 180 questions across Physics, Chemistry, and Biology for 720 marks, will be held in pen-and-paper mode in 552 Indian and 14 international cities.

A senior US official has stated that the United States has not officially agreed to extend the current ceasefire with Iran. This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions and raises questions about the future of the fragile truce. The lack of formal agreement suggests that the situation remains fluid and subject to further negotiation or potential escalation.

IRS tax relief needs proper documents to show your money situation clearly. You must share income, expenses, assets, and tax records to apply. Each relief option may ask for different details. Missing papers can slow or reject your request. Staying organized and giving correct information helps your application move faster and improves your chances of getting tax relief from IRS.

Police are investigating Katy Perry over sexual assault allegations by Ruby Rose. The incident allegedly occurred in Melbourne in 2010. Rose claims Perry assaulted her at a nightclub. Perry's representatives have denied the allegations, calling them false. Rose has reportedly filed a formal complaint and is now unable to comment publicly on the case as investigations continue.

President Donald Trump predicts a substantial drop in oil prices once the Iran war concludes. He indicated that fuel costs could stabilize or slightly increase by the November congressional elections. However, in a later interview, Trump clarified his stance, expressing satisfaction with oil prices around 92 US dollars per barrel.

Tragedy struck a middle school in Kahramanmaras, Turkey, on Wednesday. A student opened fire, killing four people including students and a teacher. At least 20 others were injured. The shooter also died in the incident. This marks the second school attack in Turkey within two days. An investigation is underway.

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary holds 29 departments including Home and Health. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary manages 10 departments like Education and Transport. Bijendra Prasad Yadav, another Deputy Chief Minister, oversees eight departments, notably Energy and Finance. This distribution centralises core governance with the Chief Minister while assigning significant development roles to his deputies.

With the CBSE Class 10 Result 2026 already declared, attention has now shifted to the CBSE Class 12 Result 2026, which is expected to be released soon by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The exact date has not been officially announced, but it is likely to be declared shortly after the Class 10 result cycle. Students across India are eagerly waiting for their Class 12 board results 2026, which will be available through official websites, DigiLocker, UMANG app, SMS, and IVRS servi

Iran's military warned on Wednesday it would block trade through the Red Sea, along with the Gulf and Sea of Oman, if the US naval blockade on Iranian ports continues. The powerful armed forces of the Islamic republic will not allow any exports or imports to continue in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea, said Ali Abdollahi.

Minimum wage hikes in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana are impacting Provident Fund coverage. Workers earning above Rs 15,000 may now opt out of mandatory contributions. This trend highlights the need to raise the EPFO wage ceiling. Experts suggest an increase to Rs 22,000-Rs 25,000 to ensure broader social security for low-wage earners. Enforcement challenges persist.

An Iranian delegation altered its return flight from Pakistan after receiving threats. The team used decoy aircraft and rerouted their plane to Mashhad. From there, they traveled to Tehran by land. This occurred amid high tensions and collapsed talks with the US. Negotiations were aimed at ending a conflict impacting West Asia and global economy.

Quote of the day by Dolly Parton: Her quote encourages individuals to actively seek or create their unique place in life, emphasizing persistence and adaptability. Her journey from humble beginnings in Tennessee to becoming a multifaceted entertainment icon exemplifies this philosophy.

M. K. Stalin, Udhayanidhi Stalin and other Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leaders have reported a decline in declared assets over five years, largely due to exiting business links under scrutiny, while the wealth of their spouses has risen in several cases.

CBSE Class 10 Results via UMANG APP: The CBSE Class 10 results for 2026 were released on April 15. Students can conveniently access their digital marksheets and certificates via the UMANG application by logging in with their registered mobile number, entering their roll number and date of birth. This provides a reliable alternative to official websites during peak traffic.

US President Donald Trump stated China will not send weapons to Iran. He also mentioned China's happiness regarding the permanent opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump expressed optimism about US-China relations, anticipating a positive reception from President Xi Jinping during an upcoming visit. He emphasized American military readiness.

UPMSP has extended answer sheet evaluation for UP Board Class 10 and 12 exams 2026 till April 4 due to delays at multiple centres. Over 49 lakh students appeared. MP Board and CBSE Class 10 results have been declared on April 15, today adn UP board students are expecting their results soon.

The Karnataka High Court declined to ban tiger safaris in the state but sought a response from the government on a plea for a permanent ban, asking for details on safari zones and conservation compliance, even as operations have resumed in a phased manner at Bandipur National Park and Nagarahole National Park after a temporary suspension.

In March, India's unemployment rate surged to 5.1%, reaching its highest level in five months. Urban areas experienced a notable increase in joblessness, contributing to the rise in the overall unemployment figure. Women continue to face greater unemployment challenges than men, while the youth demographic also showed a troubling uptick in joblessness.

Paronomasia is a word that celebrates the wit and versatility of language. It reminds us that words are not merely tools for communication, but also instruments of creativity and humour.