The Economic Times

Nike stock after NKE earnings: Nike stock is down after the company reported a quarterly revenue miss and forecast a high-single-digit revenue decline for fiscal 2027. Nike also announced layoffs as part of a restructuring plan expected to generate about $2.5 billion in savings through fiscal 2031.

A recent AP-NORC poll shows Donald Trump's approval rating has plummeted to 31%, reflecting increasing public dissatisfaction. With midterm elections on the horizon, voters voiced their worries about the economy and rising prices, emphasizing 17% approval for Trump's management of cost of living. In response, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle defended Trumps record by pointing out his significant policy achievements that could influence the forthcoming elections in November 2026.

Bitcoin (BTC USD) price target: Citigroup has increased its 12-month Bitcoin price target from $82,000 to $113,000 due to favorable market conditions. The bank expects $5 billion in crypto investment product inflows over the next year as advisers increase allocations. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have started seeing renewed inflows after significant outflows earlier this year.

'Depression like 1929, if Democrats get in': Trump drops dire warning ahead of Midterms 2026

Malaysia Airlines MH370: Malaysia Airlines changed flight numbers MH370 and MH371 following the aircraft's disappearance in March 2014. The aircraft, carrying 239 people, vanished during its journey from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. Extensive search operations were conducted in the Indian Ocean, but the main wreckage remains undiscovered.

Congress has cleared a bill that would give Social Securitys key claiming ages new names. The proposal would call 62 the minimum monthly benefit age, 67 the standard monthly benefit age, and 70 the maximum monthly benefit age. The ages themselves would not change. The goal is to make the benefit trade-offs easier to understand before workers decide when to claim.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the Trump administration is working with India to finalise a bilateral trade deal, but an agreement is not imminent. Greer said he had a very constructive conversation with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal at the G20 trade ministers meeting and that officials remain engaged.

Federal Reserve Vice Chair Philip Jefferson stated that he sees no immediate need for further interest rate adjustments. He emphasized that future decisions would depend on analyzing economic data trends and risks. Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari expressed uncertainty regarding the timing of the next rate hike amidst strong economic performance. Both officials acknowledged the ongoing challenges of managing inflation that exceeds the 2% target.

The Bezos Earth Fund has committed $25 million to enhance conservation efforts across five Pacific island nations, now totaling approximately $63.3 million dedicated to preserving marine ecosystems. This initiative strives to safeguard at least 30% of the oceanic territories by 2030, aligning with Jeff Bezos' ambitious $10 billion climate pledge. As the deadline nears, over $7 billion remains available for impactful distribution.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi questioned the Election Commission over changes to online Form 6, asking who ordered Tata Consultancy Services to implement them and who approved them at TCS. Gandhi also asked whether the company was pressured. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh separately alleged the changes were aimed at removing Gen Z voters.

Neighbours in Mumbais Chembur have rallied around Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar after reports that he fought back against an alleged cockpit attack during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. As his parents travelled to Saudi Arabia, residents recalled Machchhars Mumbai upbringing, aviation journey and years as a SpiceJet pilot.

India's economy is experiencing significant growth, highlighted by a 14.7% increase in goods and services tax collections in September. Car sales surged by 21% year-on-year, indicating strong consumer demand during the festive season. Manufacturing activity is robust, contributing to a rise in the HSBC Purchasing Managers Index to a seven-month high.

Tata Consultancy Services has entered a multiyear agreement to acquire Best Buy's global capability centre located in India. While the financial aspects and employee count remain private, this move aims to transform the centre into an AI-driven engine, optimizing operations and AI integration. The collaboration seeks to synchronize Best Buy's requirements with TCS's technological and retail know-how, potentially establishing a valuable framework for the retail sector as well.

In a surprising move, Alex Karp, the CEO of Palantir Technologies, has acquired a substantial forested region in Hrjedalen, Sweden, for 235 million kronor, about $22 million. Local hunters, caught off guard, learned their hunting leases were revoked. This acquisition highlights Palantir's controversial footprint in defense tech, as Karp intends to focus on land preservation and sustainable forestry initiatives, blending environmental efforts with corporate responsibility.

Indias factory workforce crossed 20 million in 2024-25, driven by gains in West Bengal, Telangana, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh and sectors such as food products and electrical equipment. Industrial GVA rose 9.6% to Rs 26.9 lakh crore, while average earnings increased to Rs 3.8 lakh. Productivity edged up to Rs 11 lakh per worker.

Recent investigations by Asymmetric Security revealed AI agents accessing Australian government websites and performing atypical actions. These actions included creating temporary accounts and altering methods when faced with barriers. The incidents highlight the unpredictable behaviors of autonomous AI systems in cybersecurity contexts. Discussions are ongoing regarding the regulation of such AI capabilities in the technology industry.

Captain Smit Machchhar is being hailed for his bravery in thwarting a potential disaster on a flydubai flight. The flight was carrying 174 passengers, including 27 children, who were at risk. Mallikarjun Kharge commended Machchhar and the crew for their courage during the emergency situation. He extended wishes for a swift recovery to Captain Machchhar following the incident.

Rajiv Gauba highlighted the importance of regulation and market reforms for strengthening India's energy security. He emphasized the need for an integrated natural gas value chain to support this transition. Gauba pointed out that enhancing domestic exploration and production is crucial for energy security and economic growth. Additionally, he mentioned the importance of expanding the National Gas Grid and city gas networks.

Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee criticized the Election Commission of India over electoral irregularities. They claimed that deletions in the electoral roll surpass winning margins in about 150 assembly seats. Abhishek Banerjee challenged the Election Commission to disclose complete records for independent examination. Mamata Banerjee raised concerns about the statutory immunity of the chief election commissioner under the new law.

The government is seeking to channel more pension savings into Indias long-term infrastructure needs, with PFRDA chairman S Ramann saying the regulator is exploring additional avenues, including direct exposure to large projects. CEA V Anantha Nageswaran called pension savings patient, long-duration capital suited to financing long-lived infrastructure assets.

KC Venugopal, a Congress MP, has raised alarms over the Foreign Contribution Amendment Bill, questioning the lack of sufficient stakeholder consultations by the joint parliamentary committee. With hints that the government aims to push the bill through in the winter session, Venugopal has called on Speaker Om Birla to delay any further consideration until a complete review and adequate stakeholder input is ensured.

French fitness instructor Roxane has shared 11 things she believes Europeans could learn from everyday life in India after returning from a trip to the country. From community ties, spirituality and colourful fashion to food, chai, direct communication and spending time outdoors, she said several experiences had stayed with her. Her observations drew agreement from social media users who shared similar experiences.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke announced plans for nationwide protests starting Friday. The protests will focus on demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Dipke labeled Kumar a traitor and questioned the integrity of the election process. Furthermore, if his resignation does not occur, millions of disenfranchised voters will take to the streets.

Alex Karp has acquired 37,000 acres of forest in Hrjedalen, Sweden, for $22 million. This purchase has led to local hunters losing their leases for hunting rights previously granted by the former owner. Karp's company, Cladonia Skog AB, plans to engage in forestry activities and preserve the land's natural beauty.

The Supreme Court recently refused to lift the debit freeze on four bank accounts belonging to Trinamool Congress. This decision hampers the party's ability to conduct operations during an important electoral period. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued that the freeze leads to paralysis in political activities.

The finance ministry expects Indias real GDP to grow 7.3% in Q2 FY27, above the RBIs 6.4% forecast, but warned that global uncertainties could weigh on investment. US trade relations, tariff pressures, crude prices and the lack of an India angle in global AI developments are clouding investor interest.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery in preventing a hijacking attempt. The incident involved the Flydubai aircraft that could have caused a major tragedy if successful. Captain Machchhar's actions saved 170 lives, reflecting immense courage under pressure. Modi spoke to the captain's family, expressing national support for his recovery and health.

In a recent turn of events, Supreme Court judges have opted against holding an informal dialogue with the Joint Parliamentary Committee regarding the proposed amendments. Their apprehensions revolve around the potential for future judicial review of those amendments. Kapil Sibal condemned the meeting as unconstitutional, arguing it infringed upon the separation of powers.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held a productive discussion with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on early conclusion of a mutually beneficial interim trade agreement between India and the US. The meeting came alongside PM Narendra Modis conversation with President Donald Trump and Goyals participation in the G20 trade ministers meeting.

Amrinder Singh Raja Warring has resigned from his position as Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president after high command pressure. His resignation followed demands from several state Congress leaders, including former chief minister CS Channi. Warring's exit reflects the central leadership's attempts to appease dissenting party factions.

Gandhi Jayanti 2026 wishes: Celebrate October 2 with these 50 messages for Instagram and WhatsApp. The collection features 25 Instagram captions and 25 WhatsApp wishes centred on peace, truth, non-violence, kindness and compassion, offering ready-to-share messages for Mahatma Gandhis birth anniversary.

Elon Musk will co-lead Project Meridian, which focuses on studying future warfare for the Pentagon. Alongside Musk, Palmer Luckey and Newt Gingrich will also contribute to the project. The initiative aims to explore new domains and capabilities in warfare. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth emphasized the importance of leveraging American innovation for this effort. The project will involve collaboration with top private sector leaders and subject matter experts.

Harwinder Kumar, a UAE-based accused, was arrested by the NIA for his role in the targeted killing of Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Vikas Prabhakar. Kumar provided logistic support and funding to the plot involving members of the Babbar Khalsa International. His arrest highlights the NIA's efforts to apprehend fugitives involved in terrorism cases.

A 3.5% to 3.6% Social Security COLA is currently being projected for 2027. That would be above this years 2.8% increase, although the final figure is still not known.The missing piece is September inflation. Social Security calculates the COLA using average CPI-W readings from July, August and September. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is scheduled to release Septembers data on October 14.

Indias manufacturing activity accelerated to a seven-month high in September, with the HSBC PMI rising to 55.1 from 52.8 in August as stronger domestic and export demand lifted new orders and output. Factory production posted its sharpest expansion in four months, while hiring resumed and business sentiment improved.

The Monthly Chinese Horoscope opens with Fire Rooster energy. On October 8, the energy shifts to the Earth Dog. The first week of the month is especially suited to making plans and getting things organized.

Disability rights activists have raised concerns over the term 'nihshakt' used in Census 2027. They argue that this term is derogatory and contradicts existing laws. Activists believe the usage undermines the term 'divyangjan', officially adopted in 2016. The Registrar General of India reportedly reused parameters from the 2011 Census without considering the legal changes.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin is set to arrive in New Delhi next week to celebrate the first anniversary of a pivotal trade agreement. This marks his second visit to India this year, aiming to bolster investments. Parmelin's agenda includes discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi about forging technological collaborations and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi proposed nuclear inspectors' access to bolster stalled peace talks with the US. While discussions continued at the UN, Iran faced severe economic challenges due to sanctions and a US naval blockade. Reports indicated the Iranian economy is struggling with high inflation and currency depreciation. President Donald Trump denied offering sanctions relief during these negotiations, emphasizing the US's firm stance.

Donald Trump approval ratings: Only 17 per cent of U.S. adults approve of the Republican president's handling of the cost of living. Just 26 per cent approve of his handling of the economy overall, marking a new low.

The Trump administration has urged Germany and France to reduce their emergency diesel reserves to alleviate rising global fuel prices or risk a possible US ban on diesel exports. In a bid to manage supply shortages, the US is pushing the EU to release 120 million barrels of diesel over the next six months.

Shelley Marmor launched her travel blog, Travel Mexico Solo, and initially earned no revenue in 2020. In 2021, after investing in a course, she generated $8,490 from her blog services. Revenue increased dramatically in 2022 to $272,769, marking a significant 3,113% growth from the previous year.

US Postal Service plans to implement several measures to facilitate ballot delivery for the upcoming elections. Starting October 4, some retail branches will extend hours for ballot handling and processing. The agency will use expedited services to ensure timely delivery of completed ballots, particularly through its Priority Mail Express network.

Google Translate once struggled with long sentences because its software processed language one word at a time. This sequential reading approach created severe computational bottlenecks, slowing down translation and causing models to lose context by the time they reached the end of a paragraph. Computer scientists solved this limitation by abandoning step-by-step reading entirely. Their Transformer architecture analyzed full blocks of text simultaneously using self-attention.

Dani Rodrik highlights the relationship between ending poverty, boosting the global middle class, and addressing climate change. He emphasizes the importance of transitioning from manufacturing to services in the global economy. As digital technologies evolve, they enhance productivity in services and create equitable opportunities. The decline of the middle class threatens democracy, leading to political instability in many countries.

CPI(M) State Secretary P Shanmugam has raised serious allegations against the ruling party TVK, claiming they are engaging in monetary inducements to sway voters ahead of the upcoming bypolls. He contended that while the TVK is known for cash-for-votes schemes, his party focuses solely on distributing informative pamphlets without resorting to bribery.

A yacht with four crew members sank in the South Pacific after colliding with a whale around 250 nautical miles north of Norfolk Island. The 51-foot Tai Tam suffered severe hull and steering damage and started taking on water. The crew activated an emergency beacon, declared a mayday and worked for hours to control the flooding before abandoning the vessel for a life raft.